Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 27 February 2026

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Student Demonstration at National Police Headquarters; Metro Police Chief Restricts Tear Gas Use to His Direct Orders

The Jakarta Metro Police Chief, Inspector General Asep Edi Suheri, has imposed strict controls on police response to a student demonstration planned at the National Police Headquarters on Friday, permitting tear gas use only under his direct command and prohibiting officers from carrying firearms. The demonstration, organised by the University of Indonesia Student Executive Board, is demanding severe legal penalties for a police officer implicated in a fatal assault incident on 19 February 2026.

Police Narcotics Unit Seizes Cash and Luxury Watch from Suspect Attempting Illegal Flight to Malaysia

Indonesian National Police's Narcotics Directorate (Dittipidnarkoba) apprehended suspect Erwin bin Iskandar (Ko Erwin), aged 57, as he attempted to flee illegally to Malaysia via maritime routes on 26 February 2026. Authorities seized evidence including IDR 4.8 million, RM 20,000, a TAG Heuer watch, and a Samsung mobile phone; investigators are now probing potential money laundering activities and illicit fund flows connected to a narcotics trafficking network.

US-Iran Negotiations in Geneva End with "Significant Progress"

Iranian and American delegations completed the third round of indirect nuclear negotiations in Geneva under Omani mediation, with officials from both sides reporting significant progress and openness to new creative solutions. The negotiations, led by Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi and US special presidential envoy Steve Witkoff and presidential son-in-law Jared Kushner, focused on uranium enrichment restrictions and sanctions relief.

PBTY XXI Strengthens Cross-Ethnic and Religious Brotherhood

The 21st Yogyakarta Chinese Cultural Week (PBTY) will be held from 25 February to 3 March 2026, themed "Cultural Heritage, National Strength," aimed at promoting brotherhood across ethnic and religious lines during the Lunar New Year celebrations. The event will feature 172 participating MSMEs, cultural performances including Wayang Potehi and lion dances, and a carefully arranged food bazaar separating halal and non-halal stalls to ensure visitor comfort during Ramadan.

West Java Police Chief: Do Not Treat Police Housing Estate Like Rental Dormitory

The West Java Police Chief, Inspector General Rudi Setiawan, inaugurated a 40-unit police housing estate (Rusunawa) in Tasikmalaya City costing Rp 13 billion, constructed from public tax revenue. Setiawan emphasised the importance of proper housing for police personnel performance and urged residents to maintain the facilities properly, warning against treating the accommodation as a casual rental dormitory.

One member of Temanggung Police Resort formally dismissed with dishonour

Temanggung Police Resort held a formal dishonourable discharge ceremony for Brigadier First Class Damu for breaching the police code of ethics. The Temanggung Police Chief emphasised that dishonourable discharge is a final enforcement measure, not an achievement, and serves as a reminder that the Indonesian National Police will not tolerate misconduct that damages public trust and institutional reputation.

Jakpro to Hold JIS Ramadhan Festival on 28 February-1 March 2026

Jakpro will host the JIS Ramadhan Festival at Jakarta International Stadium from 28 February to 1 March 2026, aiming to attract 20,000 visitors to a free event combining religious activities, family entertainment, cultural performances, and affordable food bazaars.

Free Nutritious Meals Programme Assessed as Helping Improve Children's Eating Habits

Indonesia's Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, which has operated for one year, is assessed as successfully promoting healthier eating habits among recipient children, according to research by the Research Institute of Socio-Economic Development (RISED).

Entrepreneurs Claim Prabowo's Regulations Could Hamper Economic Growth

Indonesia's e-commerce and digital businesses have raised concerns about Government Regulation No. 17 of 2025 (PP TUNAS), which aims to protect children online and is set to take full effect in March 2025.

Saudi Deputy Foreign Minister attends extraordinary OIC Foreign Ministers meeting to discuss Israel

Saudi Arabia's Deputy Foreign Minister Waleed Elkhereiji, representing Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah, attended an extraordinary meeting of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation's Executive Committee in Jeddah to address Israeli occupation. Saudi Arabia reiterated its support for the two-state solution, the Global Alliance for its implementation, and called for coordinated Islamic action against what it described as the greatest threat to regional security and peace.

Central Lombok Regent Blames Villa Development for Triggering Mandalika Floods

The Central Lombok Regent has accused uncontrolled villa development on hillsides in the Mandalika Special Economic Zone of triggering severe flooding in Kuta Village. Heavy sedimentation from hillside construction has silted waterways, preventing proper water drainage despite six consecutive days of heavy rainfall affecting over 1,500 residents. The local government is now cracking down on developers who have built without proper permits and ignored official warning letters.

Ko Erwin Shot During Flight to Malaysia; Drug Trafficker Implicated in AKBP Didik Bribery Scandal Arrives at Police Headquarters with Leg Injury

Ko Erwin (Erwin Iskandar), a fugitive drug trafficker suspected of channelling billions of rupiah in bribes to former Bima City Police Chief AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro, has been apprehended by the National Police's Narcotics Directorate in Tanjung Balai, North Sumatra, after attempting to flee to Malaysia. Police shot and wounded his leg during his arrest after he resisted capture, and he was transported to police headquarters in Jakarta with two suspected accomplices.

Indonesia and Mongolia Deepen Partnership in Political Talks

Indonesia and Mongolia reaffirmed their bilateral commitment during political consultations at the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs on 26 February, marking the 70th anniversary of their diplomatic relations. The two nations identified significant opportunities for cooperation in strategic sectors including agriculture, education, defence, health, and science and technology, with particular emphasis on expanding trade and investment through chambers of commerce memoranda.

Drug Trafficker Ko Erwin Aided by Two Accomplices Whilst Attempting to Flee to Malaysia

Indonesian police have arrested major drug trafficker Erwin Iskandar bin Iskandar (Ko Erwin) who allegedly attempted to flee to Malaysia via maritime routes with assistance from two other suspects. The arrest by the Criminal Investigation Directorate's Drug Crime Unit also implicates a former Bima City police chief in a narcotics case, with Ko Erwin connected to the transfer of approximately 2.8 billion rupiah.

Prabowo-MBZ Meeting: UAE Seeks to Increase Investment in Indonesia

President Prabowo Subianto held bilateral talks with UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi, focusing on strengthening diplomatic ties and expanding investment cooperation in strategic sectors including energy and infrastructure. The meeting underscores Indonesia's position as a key partner for the UAE in Southeast Asia and marks ongoing collaboration ahead of the 50th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic relations in 2026.

Baznas delivers 400 iftar meal packages to South Jakarta scavengers

Baznas, Indonesia's national zakat agency, distributed 400 iftar meal packages to economically disadvantaged residents of Gasong Village in South Jakarta during Ramadan, part of its annual welfare programme targeting impoverished communities.

Retail Leaders Respond to Regional Moratorium on Modern Retail Store Permits

Indonesian retail association chief Solihin has stated that the retail sector will comply with local government moratoria on new modern retail store permits, following reports that several regional heads plan to implement such restrictions.

PTPP Surges 120.8%, New Contracts Reach Rp2.76 Trillion in January 2026

PT PP (Persero) Tbk (PTPP), Indonesia's state-owned construction and investment company, recorded new contract values of Rp2.76 trillion through January 2026, representing a remarkable 120.8% year-on-year increase. The wins are predominantly funded by government sources (73.31%), with major projects including the Attorney General's office building (Rp820.7 billion), Medan BRT development (Rp538.5 billion), and bauxite mining in Mempawah (Rp478.

Customs Official Arrested by KPK Over Alleged Gratification in Import Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has arrested Budiman Bayu Prasojo, an official from the Directorate General of Customs and Excise (DJBC), on suspicion of receiving gratification related to goods importation. The arrest followed investigations into Rp 5 billion (approximately £250,000) discovered in five suitcases in Ciputat, Tangerang Selatan, which the KPK believes was part of a monthly bribe scheme involving PT Blueray Cargo.

Viral Woman Who Frequently Dines Without Paying Finally Detained by Civil Police in Central Jakarta

A woman who went viral for reportedly not paying for meals and online transport services was detained by Jakarta's Civil Police (Satpol PP) on 26 February after taking food from a restaurant customer in Central Jakarta. The 38-year-old woman, identified as NSS, was transferred to Duren Sawit Mental Health Hospital in East Jakarta for psychiatric evaluation after authorities suspected she was a person with mental health disorders (ODGJ).

State Debt Securities Auction Offers Decline

The Ministry of Finance targets Rp 33 trillion from a State Debt Securities (SUN) auction scheduled for Tuesday, 3 March 2026, down from Rp 40 trillion in the previous auction on 18 February. Investor demand for government debt securities has declined consistently since the start of 2026, with incoming bids falling from Rp 90.9 trillion in early January to Rp 63 trillion by mid-February, though officials maintain the bid-to-cover ratio remains robust at 2.

Denpasar City Anniversary Ceremony: Governor Koster Conveys Waste Management Message

Bali Governor Wayan Koster conveyed priority messages regarding waste management, governance, and infrastructure at Denpasar City's 238th anniversary ceremony on 27 February 2026, with the mayor delivering his directives due to his absence. The Denpasar Environmental Health and Cleanliness Office showcased waste management innovations including vertical composting systems, composter drums, and organic waste handling from the source, with free compost bags distributed to residents.

Cimahi Health Office Reveals New Facts About School Meals Programme Following Poisoning of Dozens of Students and Teachers

Cimahi's Health Office has inspected the school meals programme (SPPG) facility that distributed meals to dozens of poisoned students and teachers on 25 February 2026. Although laboratory tests for food, water and utensils have yielded negative results meeting certification standards, the facility has not yet received its Hygiene Sanitation Certificate due to incomplete supporting documentation.

Metro Police Pledge Strict Action Against Debt Collectors Harassing and Seizing Citizens' Property

The Jakarta Metro Police have pledged zero tolerance for debt collectors and "mata elang" (illegal collection agents) who harass the public and forcibly seize property. The commitment follows a recent stabbing incident in Tangerang where a debt collector stabbed an advocate three times over a disputed vehicle payment arrears, resulting in the arrest of the suspect in Semarang.

Cooperation Minister Ferry Juliantono to Review Modern Retail Regulations

Indonesia's Cooperation Minister Ferry Juliantono will review Presidential Regulation Number 112 of 2007 and the September 2015 Economic Policy Package following complaints from small business owners. The review focuses on enforcement of the 500-metre minimum distance requirement between modern retailers and traditional markets, as small warung (shop) closures have risen significantly since 2007, with the number of small shops declining from 6.1 million to 3.9 million units by 2025.

Police Reveal Reason for Waste Truck Traffic Through Residential Road in Sumur Batu, Bekasi

Police in Bekasi have explained that waste trucks have been diverted through residential roads in Sumur Batu following a landslide that blocked the main access route to the final disposal site (TPA). The diversion, initially authorised for one week, has extended indefinitely, causing disruption to local traders and prompting allegations of illegal levies from residents, which police have begun investigating.

Drug lord wanted for questioning arrested at Soetta airport, suspected of bribing former Bima City police chief

Police have arrested Erwin Iskandar, a wanted drug lord and crystal methamphetamine distributor, upon his arrival at Soekarno-Hatta Airport on Friday (27 February). Iskandar is suspected of supplying methamphetamine and channelling money to former Bima City Police Chief AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro as part of a bribery scheme. He has been transferred to the Criminal Investigation Directorate at National Police Headquarters for further interrogation.

KAI Daop 1 Jakarta to Operate 18 Additional Trains for 2026 Lebaran Exodus

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) Daerah Operasi 1 Jakarta will deploy 18 additional trains to facilitate the 2026 Lebaran holiday exodus, bringing total daily long-distance train operations to 86 services. The company has 98,000 tickets available, with departures from Gambir and Pasar Senen stations from 11 March to 1 April 2026, backed by rigorous maintenance protocols of its 354-unit fleet.

BC30™ Obtains Approval to Display "Live Culture" Claims in Indonesia, Opening Opportunities for Food and Beverage Product Innovation

Kerry's BC30™ probiotic ingredient has received approval from Indonesia's Drug and Food Authority (BPOM) to display "Live Culture" claims on general food category packaging, following its inclusion in the permitted microorganisms list under PERBPOM No. 38/2023.

Civil servants participating in reserve component training receive allowances whilst maintaining salary and benefits

Indonesia's Ministry of State Apparatus Empowerment and Bureaucratic Reform has issued guidance confirming that civil servants (ASN) serving as reserve component (Komcad) trainees will receive allowances, maintained salary and benefits, health protection, and safety assurances during their 45-day military training.

Kadin Says Regulations Must Provide Growth Space for Digital Economy

The Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) has called for digital ecosystem regulations that balance consumer protection with growth opportunities for digital economy players.

Moments of Bareskrim Arresting Ko Erwin at Sea, Nearly Reached Malaysia

Indonesian National Police's Narcotics Directorate (Dittipidnarkoba) arrested drug trafficking suspect Erwin bin Iskandar, alias Ko Erwin (57), whilst attempting to flee to Malaysia via an illegal sea route on 26 February 2026. Erwin was apprehended in waters near Pematang Silo, North Sumatra, just before crossing into Malaysian territory, following an intensive investigation and pursuit involving coordinated police units and the National Intelligence Agency task force.

East Jakarta City Government Permanently Closes Two Access Points to Cawang City Park Amid Prostitution Allegations

The East Jakarta City Government has permanently sealed two entry points to Cawang City Park in the Kebon Pala area after allegations that the park was being used for same-sex prostitution activities at night. The closure, conducted through concrete sealing and welding operations, was carried out in coordination with multiple city agencies and community security forces to prevent misuse of the public facility and reduce social security risks in the area.

PTP Nonpetikemas Banten Branch Handles Maiden Export of Wind Mill Towers to Canada

PT Pelabuhan Tanjung Priok (PTP Nonpetikemas) Banten Branch successfully handled the maiden export of wind mill towers manufactured by PT Kenertec Power System to Canada via Ciwandan Port in mid-February 2026. The shipment of these oversized wind turbine components represents a significant milestone in supporting Indonesia's renewable energy industry and its expansion into global markets.

Parliament Pressures for Transparent Legal Process in ABK's 2-Tonne Methamphetamine Case

A member of Indonesia's Parliamentary Commission III has called for transparency and professionalism in the legal proceedings against Fandi Ramadhan, a ship crew member facing capital punishment for allegedly smuggling nearly 2 tonnes of methamphetamine via the Sea Dragon vessel. Multiple parliamentarians and officials have expressed concerns about procedural integrity, with some questioning whether capital punishment is appropriate under Indonesia's new criminal code.

US Prepares to Deploy Kamikaze Drones in Potential Iran Strike

The United States has readied its first kamikaze drone unit, known as Task Force Scorpion, for potential deployment should President Donald Trump authorise military action against Iran. The low-cost LUCAS drones, priced at approximately US$35,000 each and reverse-engineered from Iran's Shahed-136 model, represent a strategic shift in US military doctrine towards autonomous, expendable systems.

Video: LPS Chief Says Islamic Banking Now More Competitive

The Chairman of Indonesia's Deposit Insurance Corporation (LPS), Anggito Abimanyu, has asserted that the Islamic banking sector has transformed to become more competitive than conventional commercial banks. Abimanyu emphasised that this claim is based on academic research he has compiled, not merely opinion.

Parents Shake Their Heads at the Free Nutritious Meal Programme Menu During Ramadan

A parent in Sragen City has raised concerns about the quality of meals distributed under the free nutritious meal programme (MBG) during Ramadan, alleging that the food is stale and of poor quality whilst suspecting price mark-ups. The National Nutrition Agency has issued new guidelines requiring SPPG operators to use tote bags, implement food safety protocols, and ensure menus avoid ultra-processed foods, with food budgets set at Rp8,000–Rp10,000 per portion for the ingredients themselves.

LPDP Considering Public Naming Sanctions for Non-Compliant Alumni on Website

The Education Fund Management Institute (LPDP) is evaluating stricter oversight measures and considering publicly displaying the names of scholarship recipients who fail to meet their mandatory service obligations in Indonesia on its official website. As of 31 January 2026, eight alumni have been confirmed to have violated their duties and been ordered to repay their scholarships, whilst 36 others remain under investigation.

Indonesia's Danantara Studies Plan to Buy 50 Boeing Jets for Garuda

Indonesia's sovereign wealth manager Danantara is studying financing options to acquire 50 Boeing aircraft for state-owned carrier PT Garuda Indonesia under a bilateral trade agreement with the United States. The plan remains under technical review with delivery schedules potentially stretching to seven years, with funding to be sourced through supplier credit and instalment payments. The purchase is part of Indonesia's commitment under a reciprocal trade agreement to procure US$13.

Retail Leaders Respond to Call for Alfamart and Indomaret Expansion Freeze in Villages

Indonesian retail industry leaders have responded to government calls to halt new modern minimarket expansions in rural areas, with APRINDO confirming members will comply with regional regulations. The Rural and Disadvantaged Areas Development Minister clarified that the freeze targets only new expansion permits, not existing operations, while prioritising village cooperatives which return 20% profits to local governments and keep money circulating locally.

IHSG Weakens to 8,209 in Morning Session, Check 3 LQ45 Top Gainers

The Indonesian Composite Index (IHSG) declined 0.32 per cent or 25.93 points to 8,209.33 on Friday afternoon, 27 February 2026, extending losses from earlier in the session as most sectors remained in negative territory. The industrial sector was the sole gainer, advancing 2.06 per cent, whilst transportation and financial sectors led declines at -1.53 per cent and -0.79 per cent respectively. Three LQ45 blue-chip stocks posted significant gains: PT Vale Indonesia (INCO) surged 4.

BNNP Kepri alerts to drug trafficking through sea and air routes

Indonesia's National Narcotics Agency for Riau Islands Province (BNNP Kepri) has heightened surveillance against drug trafficking and abuse via maritime and air transport routes in the region. Between January and February 2026, authorities uncovered four drug-related cases at airports and ports, resulting in six arrests, including five men and one woman who operated as couriers earning between 10 to 25 million rupiah per kilogramme.

Indonesia and Malaysia strengthen commitment to cross-border wildlife protection

Indonesia and Malaysia have reinforced bilateral cooperation on protecting wildlife that migrates across their shared borders, following a meeting between Indonesian Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni and Malaysian Ambassador Syed Mohamad Hasrin Tengku Hussin.

Member of Joxzin Brigade Killed in Bantul; Police to Question Victim's Wife Today

A member of the Joxzin Brigade, identified as TYR (36), was fatally attacked with a machete whilst sleeping in his home in Kaliurang, Argomulyo, Sedayu, Bantul, on 25 February 2026. Police have interviewed four witnesses and plan to question the victim's wife on 27 February, whilst awaiting digital forensic examination results to advance the murder investigation.

Video: Supporting Cloud-to-AI Transformation, Data Centres "Must Have" This

Indonesia's data centre industry is experiencing growth driven by massive adoption of digitalisation and artificial intelligence technologies. Data centre operators must evolve towards GPU-equipped systems and strengthen infrastructure to meet increased power demands and data density requirements as enterprises increasingly integrate AI into their services.

Prabowo returns to Indonesia after four-nation diplomatic tour

President Prabowo Subianto concluded a four-nation diplomatic tour spanning the United States, United Kingdom, Jordan, and the United Arab Emirates, during which he secured a reciprocal trade agreement with the U.S. covering 1,819 Indonesian products and witnessed a framework agreement between Indonesia's sovereign wealth fund and Arm Limited for semiconductor industry development.

Social Affairs Minister Reports Hundreds of Thousands of PBI JKN Participants Reactivated, Data Evaluation Ongoing

Minister of Social Affairs Saifullah Yusuf has announced that 869,000 of the 11 million health insurance subsidy (PBI JKN) participants previously deactivated have been reactivated through various schemes, including transfers to local government funding, civil servant programmes, and private sector coverage.

Appearance of Drug Trafficker Ko Erwin Upon Arrest, Weary Face and Handcuffed

Ko Erwin (Erwin Iskandar bin Iskandar), a drug trafficking fugitive, arrived at Soekarno-Hatta Airport's Terminal 1C in Tangerang under tight police escort, with his face covered and hands bound with yellow plastic ties. The arrest is connected to an investigation into a former Bima City police chief and a drug trafficking case involving millions of rupiah allegedly sent to police officers through a network of intermediaries.

US Demands Iran Dismantle Nuclear Facilities and Surrender Uranium Stockpile

During the third round of nuclear negotiations in Geneva, the United States has demanded that Iran dismantle its primary nuclear development facilities at Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan, and transfer all enriched uranium stocks—estimated at 10,000 kilograms—to Washington under a permanent agreement with no expiration date.

The MSCI Shadow: How Severe Is the Impact of Foreign Investor Inflows and Outflows?

Indonesia's capital market experienced severe turbulence following MSCI's decision to freeze index changes for Indonesian securities, citing concerns over market integrity and free float vulnerability below 5%. The resulting panic triggered massive foreign capital outflows totalling Rp11.28 trillion, causing the Composite Index to plunge from 8,980 to 7,922, before recovering as the Financial Services Authority announced regulatory reforms to raise the minimum free float threshold to 15%.

PDIP Strictly Prohibits Party Members from Business Involvement and Profiting from Free Nutritious Meals Programme

The Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) has issued a formal directive strictly prohibiting all party members across its structural, legislative, and executive branches from engaging in business activities or seeking financial gain from the government's Free Nutritious Meals Programme (MBG).

Police Investigate Death of Man Crushed by Heavy Equipment at Marunda Free Trade Zone, North Jakarta

Police in North Jakarta are investigating the death of a 44-year-old man identified as GH, who was crushed by a side loader operated by a 36-year-old man (AS) at Smart Depo in the Nusantara Free Trade Zone (KBN) Marunda on 26 February. The victim, who worked as a ship cargo expediter rather than a depot employee, was allegedly unaware he was in an active container handling zone, and the operator did not see him due to a blind spot.

idEA submits recommendations for efficient implementation of PP Tunas regulation

The Indonesian E-Commerce Association (idEA) has submitted recommendations to the government to ensure efficient implementation of Government Regulation No. 17 of 2025 on electronic systems governance for child protection (PP Tunas).

Distributing 7,000 portions of free dawn meals in Palu

The Alkhairaat Youth Association in Palu distributes between 5,000 and 7,000 free dawn meal (sahur) portions each night during Ramadan, with the support of 40 volunteers. The initiative serves the local community of Central Sulawesi during the Islamic fasting month, addressing food security and social welfare needs.

Scorned Student Attacks Reject with Machete and Axe After Romantic Proposal Rejected at Riau Islamic University

A 21-year-old student deliberately attacked a female student at UIN Sultan Syarif Kasim University in Riau with a machete and axe after she rejected his romantic advances. The victim, who was awaiting her thesis examination at the Faculty of Sharia and Islamic Law, sustained head and hand wounds but was quickly rescued.

Mahfud MD Expresses Pride in UGM Student Council Leader for Courting Government Criticism

Former Constitutional Court Chief Mahfud MD has praised UGM student body leader Tiyo Adrianto for boldly criticising government policies, describing him as the type of courageous youth who can drive national change. Mahfud warned against intimidating student activists, noting that such harassment undermines state health and that those responsible must act responsibly regardless of whether the government or paid operatives are behind alleged threats.

Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison, Kerry Adrianto Son of Riza Chalid Speaks Out

Muhammad Kerry Adrianto Riza, son of oil tycoon Riza Chalid, has been sentenced to 15 years imprisonment, a fine of Rp 1 billion, and ordered to pay restitution of Rp 2.9 trillion by the Corruption Court in Jakarta in connection with a crude oil and refinery product corruption case involving PT Pertamina from 2018-2023. Kerry has announced plans to appeal the conviction, claiming that numerous trial facts were not considered in the court's reasoning.

Mass Action on Jalan Trunojoyo: Metro Police Prioritise Humane Service

The Jakarta Metro Police deployed 3,992 personnel to secure a demonstration held in front of the National Police Headquarters on Jalan Trunojoyo, South Jakarta, whilst emphasising humane and human rights-centred security measures.

Pegadaian's Gold Banking Achieves Milestone: 40.51 Tonnes Under Management in One Year

PT Pegadaian's gold banking division has expanded significantly, managing 40.51 tonnes of gold and outstanding gold instalment financing of 7.37 tonnes by February 2026. The institution has strengthened its position through digital innovation via the Tring! application, strategic initiatives including gold ETFs, and regulatory compliance with Shariah principles through a national fatwa issued by the Indonesian Ulema Council.

Reckless Driver Becomes Suspect in Weapons Possession and Fake Licence Plate Case

A driver named Hafiz Mahendra, who was stopped for reckless driving and driving against traffic on Gunung Sahari Street in Central Jakarta, has been designated as a suspect for possessing sharp weapons and fake number plates. Police discovered a toy firearm, machete, dagger, and four fake licence plates in his vehicle during a search.

Trump's 15 Per Cent Tariff Puts Indonesian Composite Index at Risk of Correction; Which Sectors Are Most Vulnerable?

US President Donald Trump's proposed 15 per cent import tariff increase is expected to pressure Indonesia's stock market and trigger global risk-off sentiment, with foreign investors likely to exit emerging markets in favour of safer assets.

Paradox of East Kalimantan Governor's Rp 8.5 Billion Official Vehicle: Luxury or Necessity?

East Kalimantan Governor Rudy Mas'ud faces public scrutiny over the procurement of an official vehicle costing Rp 8.5 billion, which critics argue is excessive and wasteful during a period of fiscal efficiency.

Parliamentary Budget Committee: Free Nutritious Meals Budget of Rp223.5 Trillion Classified Under Education Allocation

The Indonesian Parliamentary Budget Committee (Banggar) Chairman Said Abdullah clarified that the Rp223.5 trillion allocation for President Prabowo's flagship free nutritious meals programme (MBG) is properly classified under education spending in the 2026 state budget, following a political agreement between Parliament and Government.

Pancasila Must Become the Mainstream in Character Formation

The head of Indonesia's State Ideology Foundation (BPIP) has emphasised that Pancasila education must be central to developing the character of young people, particularly amid the complex challenges of the digital era. Officials stress that Pancasila values must extend beyond classroom instruction to be actively lived and demonstrated in students' daily behaviour, whilst the government has distributed 2,430 primary textbooks to support Pancasila education in schools across the country.

Purchasing Fuel and LPG via MyPertamina Offers Holiday Bonus Opportunity

Pertamina Patra Niaga is launching a "THR E-Voucher MyPertamina" promotional campaign offering 1,500 top-spending consumers a Rp 100,000 electronic voucher for fuel, LPG, and lubricant purchases made through the MyPertamina app between 23 February and 10 March 2026.

Strengthening Green Financing: ITPLN Partners with BEI to Build Capital Markets Laboratory

Institut Teknologi PLN (ITPLN) is establishing a Financing and Capital Markets Simulation Laboratory in collaboration with PT Bursa Efek Indonesia (BEI) to provide practical, experiential learning for students in its Energy Business programme. The laboratory will offer realistic market simulations, certification training, and case study modules, aligning with the government's agenda to develop human resources in the sustainable finance sector, particularly green financing.

Wheelchair-bound Methamphetamine Trafficker Ko Erwin Arrives at Police Criminal Investigation Directorate

Indonesian police arrested Erwin Iskandar, alias Ko Erwin, a major methamphetamine trafficker who operated in Nusa Tenggara Barat province, after he was shot in the leg whilst attempting to flee to Malaysia from Tanjung Balai, North Sumatra. Ko Erwin was transported to the National Police's Directorate of Drug Crime (Bareskrim) for further questioning after arriving at Jakarta's Soekarno-Hatta Airport under heavy police escort, with two additional suspects arrested for assisting his escape plan.

Woman Arrested for Repeatedly Refusing to Pay for Meals Referred to Psychiatric Hospital

A woman identified as Nani Sitorus, who became viral on social media for allegedly taking food without paying at multiple Jakarta establishments, was arrested by municipal police and referred to mental health assessment services. Following preliminary psychiatric evaluation indicating possible mental health issues, she was transferred to Duren Sawit Psychiatric Hospital for further treatment and diagnosis.

Suspected drug trafficker Koko Erwin brought to police headquarters following arrest in North Sumatra

Erwin, a suspected major drug trafficker, was arrested in Tanjung Balai, North Sumatra on 26 February whilst attempting to flee to Malaysia and has been transferred to the National Police Directorate of Drug Crime headquarters in Jakarta. Erwin is wanted over alleged involvement in narcotics trafficking and reportedly bribing a former police chief with billions of rupiah; he was shot in the leg during his arrest after attempting to resist and flee.

Timely Premium Payments and Healthy Lifestyle Expected to Prevent JKN Deficit

A sociologist from UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta argues that the JKN (National Health Insurance) deficit can be prevented through two key measures: ensuring timely premium payments from BPJS Kesehatan participants and promoting healthy lifestyles amongst the public. The deficit is not primarily a cashflow issue but stems from a lack of public awareness and education about the importance of BPJS and healthy consumption patterns, according to the expert.

Driver of Reckless Vehicle in Central Jakarta Detained After Being Designated Suspect

A 25-year-old driver identified as HM has been detained by Central Jakarta Metro Police after being designated a suspect for recklessly driving a Toyota Calya against traffic and colliding with multiple vehicles in the Gunung Sahari area. He faces charges under Article 30 of Law No. 1 of 2023 and Article 391 Paragraph 2 of the Indonesian Criminal Code, carrying a maximum sentence of 7 years imprisonment.

IHSG Cuts Losses, Weakens 0.31% to 8,209 Level

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) closed Friday's trading session down 0.31% at 8,209.33, having recovered significantly from an intraday low of 1.47% decline amid sustained selling pressure. The weakness was primarily driven by corrections in large-cap stocks, particularly energy and conglomerate shares (BREN, DSSA, TPIA) and major banking stocks (BBCA, BBRI), which carry substantial weightings in the index.

Judges Find Economic Losses of IDR 171.99 Trillion in Presumptive Oil Case

An anti-corruption court panel has ruled that alleged economic losses of IDR 171.99 trillion in a crude oil and refinery product misconduct case are presumptive and cannot be definitively proven. The judges accepted only the State Audit Board's calculations of IDR 9.42 trillion, USD 6.03 million, USD 2.73 billion, and IDR 25.44 trillion as tangible losses, sentencing nine defendants to between 9 and 15 years imprisonment for corruption involving Pertamina subsidiaries during 2018-2023.

School Principal Complains to Jakarta Governor About Free Private School Fund Disbursement Delays

The Principal of SD Bhakti Luhur has raised concerns with Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung regarding the Free Private School (SSG) programme, praising its benefits for underprivileged students but criticising the six-monthly fund disbursement schedule which strains school operations and teacher salary payments. Governor Pramono has instructed the Education Office to expedite fund releases to quarterly disbursements to improve cash flow stability for schools participating in the programme.

South Jakarta Administration Enforces Padel Court Licensing and Asset Compliance

The South Jakarta municipal government is intensifying enforcement of licensing and asset compliance for padel courts following public complaints, with the Jakarta governor directing increased oversight. The administration plans to seal unlicensed padel courts, impose operational restrictions including a 20:00 WIB curfew for residential areas, and require soundproofing where noise disturbances affect residents.

Drug Trafficker Koh Erwin Shot in Leg While Attempting to Flee During Arrest

Police's Criminal Investigation Directorate arrested major drug trafficker Koh Erwin in Tanjung Balai, North Sumatra after he attempted to flee and resist officers, resulting in his being shot in the leg. The arrest is connected to a corruption case involving former Bima City Police Chief AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro, who allegedly received approximately 2.8 billion rupiah in drug proceeds from Koh Erwin and has been dismissed from the police force and detained.

Golkar Reprimands East Kalimantan Governor Over Rp 8.5 Billion Official Vehicle: Measure Policy Against People's Conditions

Golkar party has admonished East Kalimantan Governor Rudy Mas'ud over the procurement of an official vehicle worth Rp 8.5 billion, urging him to formulate policies based on the people's circumstances rather than official interests. Golkar Secretary-General Sarmuji emphasised that all regional government policies should be measured against the public situation, particularly during budget efficiency initiatives, and called for greater responsiveness to public opinion.

Ahead of Eid 2026, Semarang Toll Road Sections A, B, C Reinforced

PT Jasamarga Transjawa Tol is strengthening operational services on the Semarang Toll Road Sections A, B, and C ahead of the 2026 Eid exodus, which serve as a critical hub connecting vehicular traffic from western to eastern Java.

Police Shoot Drug Trafficker Ko Erwin's Leg During Arrest After Resistance

Police shot drug trafficker Erwin Iskandar (Ko Erwin) in the leg whilst attempting his arrest after he resisted and tried to flee to Malaysia by sea. The arrest followed a nationwide manhunt warrant issued one day earlier, and investigations have revealed alleged corruption involving a senior Bima police official who allegedly received 2.8 billion rupiah from the drug trafficking operation.

Case of child in Sukabumi: biological mother of NS requests protection from witness and victim protection agency

Lisna, the biological mother of 12-year-old NS who allegedly died from violence inflicted by his stepmother in Sukabumi, West Java, has submitted a protection request to the Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK). Lisna has faced numerous threats via WhatsApp, phone calls, and direct contact following her report of the case, which the LPSK is now investigating whilst conducting physical and psychological assessments to determine appropriate protective measures.

Kadin Reminds Government of PP TUNAS: Regulations Must Understand Digital Ecosystem

The Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) has submitted formal comments on Government Regulation No. 17 of 2025 concerning electronic system governance for child protection (PP TUNAS), warning that hastily implemented regulations risk damaging the digital ecosystem and harming SMEs and workers.

Land Certificates Still in Names of Deceased Parents: What Are the Risks?

Land certificates remaining in the names of deceased parents must be transferred to heirs to avoid legal disputes and transaction complications. Under Indonesian law (Government Regulation No. 24 of 1997), property rights transfers due to inheritance must be registered with the land office, and certificates cannot be transferred without first updating the property title to the heir's name.

Indonesia to Announce Winners for Waste-to-Energy Project across Four Cities

Indonesia's BPI Danantara investment agency is preparing to announce the winners of its inaugural Waste-to-Energy (WTE) tender for projects in Denpasar and Bekasi, with formal partnerships to be signed in March 2026. The four-city WTE programme, covering Bekasi, Denpasar, Yogyakarta, and Bogor, has attracted 24 international companies in the tender phase, predominantly from China, with participants required to form consortiums including local partners.

Sexual Harassment Allegations on Jakarta Kota-Bogor KRL Route; KCI Investigates Suspect

KCI is investigating allegations of sexual harassment against a woman aboard a KRL commuter train on the Jakarta Kota-Bogor route, following a video that circulated on social media. The operator has implemented measures including facial recognition CCTV analysis to identify and blacklist the suspect from using the commuter line. KAI Commuter has committed to supporting the victim and assisting with legal proceedings.

Thousands of Personnel Deployed to Secure Demonstration at National Police Headquarters

Jakarta Metro Police deployed 3,992 personnel to maintain order during a demonstration at the National Police Headquarters on Friday, with officers positioned at strategic locations to protect citizens' constitutional right to assembly whilst preventing disruption to public activities. The demonstration was organised in response to the death of a 14-year-old Islamic school student allegedly by members of the Mobile Brigade police unit.

Deputy Minister of Villages: Village Funds Used to Build Village Cooperatives for Only 6 Years

Deputy Minister of Villages Ahmad Riza Patria disclosed that each village receives between 800 million and 900 million rupiah annually in village funds, primarily allocated for agricultural support such as fertiliser and irrigation.

When Will 2026 Retiree Holiday Allowance Be Distributed? Here's Information on the Schedule and Payment Amounts

The Indonesian government is preparing to distribute the 2026 Holiday Allowance (THR) to approximately 10.5 million recipients, including retirees, with a total budget of Rp 55 trillion. Whilst the official announcement from President Prabowo Subianto is still pending, Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has signalled that distribution is planned for the first week of Ramadan, with regulations stipulating payment between 15 days before and 7 days before Eid al-Fitr.

PT Energi Mega Persada Net Profit Surges 21 Per Cent in 2025

PT Energi Mega Persada Tbk (ENGR), an upstream oil and gas emitter under the Bakrie Group, reported net profit growth of 21 per cent year-on-year, reaching US$91.53 million in 2025, up from US$75.39 million in 2024. The company's EBITDA also grew 11 per cent to US$309.71 million, with revenue increasing 7 per cent to US$498.13 million, driven by significant investment in exploration and production capacity expansion totalling over US$250 million.

Ministry of Defence: Garibaldi Ship Prepared for Non-Combat Military Operations

Indonesia's Ministry of Defence has confirmed that the aircraft carrier Giuseppe Garibaldi, to be received as a gift from the Italian government, will be utilised primarily for non-combat military operations, particularly disaster relief and humanitarian assistance.

Golkar Challenges PDIP for Not Rejecting Free Nutritious Meal Programme Funded from Education Budget During DPR Plenary

Golkar's Deputy Chair of DPR Commission IX, Yahya Zaini, countered PDIP's criticism of allocating Rp 223.5 trillion from the national education budget for the free nutritious meal programme (MBG), asserting that all DPR factions, including PDIP, unanimously approved the budget during the Budget Committee and plenary sessions.

The 10 Largest Gold Mines in the World, Numbers 3 and 6 are Owned by Indonesia

Indonesia ranks fourth globally in gold reserves with approximately 3,600 tonnes of ore, accounting for 6% of global reserves, and operates two of the world's ten largest gold mines: Grasberg in Papua (ranked 3rd with 1.9 million ounces capacity) and Batu Hijau in Sumbawa (ranked 6th with 1.0 million ounces capacity).

Commission III of the House of Representatives Warns Authorities Not to 'Manipulate the Law' in the Case of Crew Member Fandi

Commission III of the Indonesian House of Representatives has called for transparency and professionalism in the legal proceedings against crew member Fandi Ramadhan, who faces capital punishment for allegedly smuggling two tonnes of methamphetamine. PKB faction member Hasbiallah Ilyas warned against any manipulation or engineering by law enforcement authorities and requested that the responsible officials be summoned to provide a public explanation to the legislature.

DPR member urges security evaluation at UIN Suska Riau following campus violence

A member of Indonesia's Commission X in parliament has called for an urgent security assessment at Sultan Syarif Kasim Islamic State University (UIN Suska) in Riau following a serious assault on a female student. The lawmaker emphasised that educational institutions must be safe spaces and stressed the importance of strict law enforcement action against the perpetrator alongside psychological support for the victim.

Instagram Launches New Parental Alert Feature for Self-Harm and Suicide-Related Searches

Instagram has announced a new feature that will send alerts to parents if their teenagers repeatedly search for suicide or self-harm related content on the platform. The notification system, set to roll out across the US, UK, Australia, and Canada within weeks, aims to enable parents to provide necessary support to at-risk adolescents whilst the company faces mounting legal challenges regarding social media's impact on youth mental health.

Fugitive Ko Erwin Arrives at Police Crime Directorate, Seated in Wheelchair

Ko Erwin (Erwin Iskandar), a fugitive narcotics trafficker and former associate of a police chief, was apprehended by Indonesia's Police Crime Directorate (Bareskrim) and arrived at the Jakarta headquarters on Friday 27 February 2026. The suspect, who allegedly funnelled 2.8 billion rupiah to former Bima City Police Chief AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro, was captured whilst aboard a vessel and reportedly attempting to flee to Malaysia.

Preparations for Lebaran 2026 Exodus: Accelerated Repairs to Toll Roads and National Highways

Indonesia's Ministry of Public Works is intensifying repairs to toll roads and national highways ahead of the 2026 Lebaran exodus, targeting completion of all pavement defects by 10 March 2026 to achieve zero potholes and meet Minimum Service Standards.

Government Digital Masterplan 2025–2045 Targets Economic Boost and Improved Public Service Quality

Indonesia has launched its Digital Government Masterplan 2025–2045, aimed at accelerating the transformation towards integrated governance, data-driven policies, and inclusive public services.

Foreign Media Highlights Conviction of Kerry, Son of Riza Chalid, to 15 Years

Muhammad Kerry Adrianto Riza, son of oil tycoon Riza Chalid, has been sentenced to 15 years in prison by an Indonesian court for corruption involving crude oil and refinery product transactions at state-owned Pertamina during 2018-2023.

Man Killed by Machete Attack While Sleeping in Bantul Found to Be Joxzin Member

A man murdered in Bantul, Yogyakarta on 25 February was identified as Kitin Yoga Tama Rustamaji (36), a member of the Brigade Joxzin civil organisation for over five years. The Brigade Joxzin leadership visited Bantul Police to demand swift investigation and arrest of the perpetrators within 48 hours, suspecting the killing was motivated by long-standing revenge rather than robbery, as nothing was stolen from the victim's home.

Baznas: Zakat Funds Not Used for Free Nutritious Meals Programme

The National Amil Zakat Board (Baznas) has categorically denied claims that zakat, infak, and sedekah funds collected from the public are being used to finance the government's Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. Baznas emphasises that all collected funds are strictly distributed according to Islamic Sharia law to eight designated recipient categories (asnaf), with transparent oversight and regular auditing.

Marine Corps prepares specialised training materials for civil servant reserve component

The Indonesian Marine Corps is preparing specialised training materials for 2,000 civil servants participating in a new reserve component programme, covering military fundamentals, discipline, team cohesion, and survival skills. The first wave of training across five TNI locations is scheduled to commence in April 2026 for approximately 1.5 months, with a second equal-sized cohort planned for mid-2026.

ITS Students Win World Championship Defeating MIT, Showcase Highly Advanced Robot

The Barunastra team from Indonesia's Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember (ITS) won the prestigious International RoboBoat Competition (IRC) 2026 in Florida, defeating 36 teams from 10 countries including MIT and other leading technological universities.

South Jakarta Police Prepare Mudik Security Through Operation Ketupat Jaya

The South Jakarta Metro Police have initiated Operation Ketupat Jaya 2026 to ensure safety and smooth traffic flow during Eid al-Fitr homecoming season. The operation includes traffic engineering measures, enhanced security posts at major routes and terminals, and community patrols, with coordination across multiple agencies and community organisations.

Police Search of Wrong-Way Driver in Central Jakarta Uncovers Four Mismatched Number Plates and Sharp Weapons

Police conducted a search on a driver who was operating a vehicle the wrong way in Gunung Sahari, Central Jakarta, revealing four pairs of mismatched motor vehicle number plates. Officers also discovered one toy firearm, two sharp weapons including a machete and a dagger. The 24-year-old driver, identified as HM, tested negative for drugs and is now facing charges under traffic law for driving in a manner endangering lives or property.

Students Establish Literacy Corner to Support Education of Aceh Tamiang Children

Students from Sriwijaya University in Palembang have established a literacy corner in Landuh Village, Aceh Tamiang, as part of a broader initiative involving 5,040 students from 36 universities contributing to post-disaster recovery efforts in the region. The programme aims to restore psychosocial well-being in affected children through reading spaces equipped with tiered bookshelves, seating, and digital access to educational materials.

KPK receives BPK RI audit on state losses from hajj quota corruption case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has received an audit report from the State Audit Board (BPK RI) on 24 February 2026 regarding state losses stemming from the hajj quota corruption case at the Ministry of Religious Affairs in 2023-2024. Initial calculations had estimated losses at over Rp1 trillion. The case involves two suspects, Yaqut Cholil Qoumas and Ishfah Abidal Aziz, with a pre-trial hearing scheduled for 3 March 2026.

PTPP Records New Contract Awards Worth IDR 2.76 Trillion in January 2026, Up 120.8% Year-on-Year

PT PP (Persero) Tbk, Indonesia's national construction and investment company under Danantara Indonesia, secured new contract awards valued at IDR 2.76 trillion in January 2026, representing a significant 120.8% year-on-year increase. The contracts are predominantly government-funded (73.31%), followed by state-owned enterprises (25.20%) and private sector projects (1.49%), with major projects including the Attorney General's Office building and Medan BRT development.

Forest Enforcement Task Force Seizes Illegal Nickel Mining Operation of PT Mineral Trobos in North Maluku

Indonesia's Forest Area Enforcement Task Force (Satgas PKH) has seized an illegal nickel mining operation belonging to PT Mineral Trobos, owned by businessman David Glen Oei, in North Maluku province. The task force has sealed the company's operational areas following suspected illegal mining activities in protected forest zones, operating under Presidential Regulation No. 5 of 2025 on forest area enforcement.

Budget Committee: Education Budget for Free Nutritious Meals Programme Is Government and Parliament Decision

The head of Indonesia's Parliament Budget Committee has defended the allocation of education budget funds to the government's free nutritious meals programme (MBG), stating that the decision was made jointly by both the government and parliament in accordance with constitutional authority. The MBG received Rp255.5 trillion in 2026 allocations, with Rp223.

Snap Elections or Extension of Regional Assembly Terms: Which is More Appropriate?

Following the Constitutional Court's decision to separate national and local elections from 2029, policymakers are weighing two options for bridging the transition period: extending regional assembly (DPRD) terms or holding snap elections.

Ministry of Forestry Halts Forest Encroachment for Plantation Development in Wajo, South Sulawesi

Indonesia's Ministry of Forestry has successfully halted illegal land clearing activities spanning approximately 9 hectares in a production forest zone in Wajo District, South Sulawesi, which was being converted for plantation use without proper authorisation.

Deputy Minister of Industry States Indonesia-US Trade Agreement Will Accelerate Domestic Mineral Downstream Processing

Indonesia's Deputy Minister of Industry Faisol Riza has described the reciprocal trade agreement with the United States as a major breakthrough that will accelerate mineral downstream processing and semiconductor production within the country. The agreement grants 1,819 Indonesian products zero-tariff access to US markets, whilst the government has ensured domestic industries, particularly SMEs, will not face direct competition with American products in the domestic market.

US Supreme Court Nullifies Trump Tariff Policy: What Are the Implications for Indonesia?

The US Supreme Court struck down President Donald Trump's reciprocal tariff policy on 20 February 2026, following which Trump implemented a new 15% global tariff. Mari Elka Pangestu, Vice Chair of Indonesia's National Economic Council, stated that whilst the US-Indonesia trade agreement remains valid, the 19% tariff rate now lacks legal basis and will require renegotiation, though Indonesia's position is stronger than nations without signed reciprocal agreements.

Seven Free Mudik Journeys for 2026 Still Available for Booking – Have You Got Your Ticket?

Multiple state-owned enterprises (SOEs) are continuing to offer free mudik (homebound) travel programmes for Eid al-Fitr 1447H in 2026, targeting over 100,000 participants across land, rail, and sea transport. Registration remains open through 28 February 2026 for departures on 17–18 March 2026, with participating SOEs including BTN, Kimia Farma, and Pos Indonesia, each offering specific routes and eligibility criteria.

Assessing Options for Extending Regional Representative Council Term Lengths During Transition to Separate National and Local Elections

A prominent expert from Perludem argues that extending the terms of regional heads and provincial legislative members is a more democratically legitimate alternative to appointing acting officials during Indonesia's electoral system transition following the planned separation of national and local elections from 2029 onwards.

Huawei Introduces MatePad Mini Tablet, Ready to Challenge iPad Mini

Huawei has officially launched its compact MatePad Mini tablet to the global market following its introduction in China alongside the Mate 80 smartphone last year. The device features an 8.8-inch Flexible OLED PaperMatte display with 2.5K resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, and is designed to compete directly with Apple's iPad Mini and Xiaomi's Pad Mini. The tablet is priced from 3,999 yuan (approximately £400) in China and comes with HarmonyOS 4.

Drug Trafficker Who Paid Rp 2.8 Billion to Former Bima Police Chief Resisted During Arrest

Erwin Iskandar, a major methamphetamine trafficker allegedly responsible for channelling Rp 2.8 billion to a former Bima Police Chief, was arrested by the Police Criminal Investigation Bureau in Tanjungbalai, North Sumatra on 26 February 2026 whilst attempting to flee to Malaysia by boat. The arrest is part of a broader investigation into drug trafficking networks linked to corrupt law enforcement, with two additional suspects detained for allegedly facilitating Erwin's escape.

Alfamart and Peers Asked to Halt Expansion into Rural Areas; Retail Association: We Always Seek to Comply with Regulations

Indonesia's Retail Business Association (Aprindo) has pledged that member companies including Alfamart will comply with local regulations when expanding retail outlets, including into rural areas. The statement responds to Cooperation Minister Ferry Juliantono's request that modern retailers halt village expansion to protect small businesses and traditional market traders, whilst protecting fair competition as the government develops Village Cooperatives (KDMP).

Reasons Bekasi Women Extort Garbage Truck Drivers: Unable to Trade Iftar

Women in Bekasi's Sumur Batu village have been soliciting small sums of money from garbage truck drivers following an alternative traffic route through their neighbourhood, claiming loss of income from street vending disrupted by foul odours. Police have confirmed the solicitations are unauthorised and are coordinating with the Environmental Services Department to arrange formal compensation for affected residents.

Calya Driver Detained After Driving the Wrong Way on Gunung Sahari Street

Hafiz Mahendra, a 25-year-old driver from Sidoarjo, East Java, has been detained as a suspect after driving a Toyota Calya the wrong way down Gunung Sahari Street in Central Jakarta. Police charged him with traffic accident violations, possession of sharp weapons, and use of fake licence plates; officers discovered two sharp weapons and four counterfeit vehicle registration plates in the vehicle.

DJP Records 4.6 Million Taxpayers Filing Annual Tax Returns via Coretax

The Indonesian Directorate General of Taxes (DJP) has recorded 4.646 million taxpayers filing their annual tax returns (SPT) as of the end of February 2026, with the majority using the Coretax system. To further facilitate tax filing, DJP is expanding features in Coretax Form and the mobile tax application (M-Pajak), particularly targeting zero-status filers and individual employees from a single employer.

Festival Jejak Jajanan Nusantara 2026 Set to Enliven GBK with Free Space for SMEs

The Ministry of Coordinating for People's Empowerment will hold the Festival Jejak Jajanan Nusantara (Nusantara Snacks Heritage Festival) on 6-8 March 2026 at Gelora Bung Karno in Jakarta, offering free booth space to selected SMEs selling traditional cuisines and local textile and fashion products.

Deputy Chief of Commission IV Parliament Urges Swift Distribution of Food Assistance to 33.2 Million Families

Deputy Head of Commission IV in the Indonesian Parliament, Alex Indra Lukman, has called for the immediate distribution of the government's food assistance programme (Bapang) covering rice and cooking oil for February and March 2026 to 33.2 million beneficiary families ahead of Eid al-Fitr celebrations. The programme, coordinated by the National Food Agency (Bapanas) and implemented by Bulog, will provide 10 kg of rice and 2 litres of cooking oil per family per month at a budgeted cost of Rp11.

IKN Smart City Project Receives USD 2.49 Million Grant from Independent US Government Agency

The IKN Authority has secured approximately USD 2.49 million (IDR 39.84 billion) in grant funding from the United States Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) to strengthen the smart city development of Indonesia's new capital, IKN, in East Kalimantan. The grant will support technical assistance for planning an integrated, investment-ready smart city blueprint designed to accelerate IKN's transformation into a sustainable, technology-driven capital that attracts global investors.

Behind Indonesia's Import of 105,000 Pickup Trucks: The Secret of India's Automobile Industry

Indonesia's state-owned enterprise PT Agrinas Pangan Nusantara has imported 1,000 vehicles from India, sparking debate over the planned entry of Indian manufacturers Tata Motors and Mahindra into the Indonesian market.

HP reveals memory costs reach 35 per cent of total PC component expenses

HP has disclosed that memory component costs have surged dramatically, now accounting for approximately 35 per cent of total PC production expenses compared to 15–18 per cent in the previous quarter. The technology company is responding to these rising costs by adjusting product prices and seeking additional suppliers with more affordable memory sourcing options.

BEM UI Surrounds National Police Headquarters This Afternoon; Public Urged to Avoid Jalan Trunojoyo! Situational Traffic Management

The Student Executive Board of the University of Indonesia (BEM UI) is staging a demonstration at National Police Headquarters in South Jakarta on Friday, 27 February 2026. Metro Jaya Police have deployed 3,093 personnel and are implementing situational traffic management on Jalan Trunojoyo and surrounding areas, urging the public to use alternative routes to avoid congestion.

Terrorised: Mother of Nizam, Victim of Alleged Stepmother Abuse, Seeks LPSK Protection

Lisnawati, the biological mother of Nizam Syafei who died following suspected abuse by his stepmother, has filed for protection with the Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) after receiving threatening messages and phone calls from unknown numbers. The threats warned her not to speak publicly about her son's death, which resulted from injuries sustained after allegedly being forced to drink hot water.

Transjakarta equips drivers with dedicated channel to report emergency conditions

PT Transportasi Jakarta (Transjakarta) has introduced a dedicated hotline for its drivers to report emergency situations, operational challenges, and safety issues in real time. The initiative aims to enhance driver safety and security whilst enabling rapid management response to incidents on routes, with the company emphasising that safety is both an operational target and a moral responsibility to the public.

Coal Business and Weak Car Market Push Astra (ASII) Profit Down 2% in 2025

PT Astra International Tbk (ASII) reported net profit of Rp32.77 trillion in 2025, a 2% year-on-year decline from Rp33.90 trillion in 2024, driven primarily by lower coal prices and weak new car sales. Despite headwinds in mining and automotive divisions, Astra maintained resilience through stronger performance in gold mining, financial services, motorcycles, and property divisions, with particular strength in agribusiness (up 28%) and property (up 224%).

KPK Interrogates 8 Village Heads Over Alleged Money Collections Ordered by Pati Regent Sudewo

The Anti-Corruption Commission (KPK) has questioned 8 village heads as part of an investigation into alleged extortion relating to the appointment of village officials in Pati Regency, led by Regent Sudewo. The KPK suspects Sudewo set prices of 125-150 million rupiah per candidate, which subordinates then inflated to 165-225 million rupiah, with total seized funds reaching 2.6 billion rupiah.

Ministry of Religious Affairs Clarifies Delayed Professional Allowance for Madrasah Teachers

The Ministry of Religious Affairs (Kemenag) has clarified that professional allowances for madrasah teachers for January to February 2026 remain unpaid pending budget allocation. The Director General of Islamic Education, Amien Suyitno, explained that the delay is procedural, as teacher certification programmes only concluded in December 2025, with allowances set to be proposed through an additional budgetary scheme in 2026.

Indonesia and Mongolia Strengthen Bilateral Partnership Through Political Consultation

Indonesia and Mongolia have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral partnership through a political consultation meeting at the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Jakarta on 26 February. Deputy Foreign Ministers from both nations discussed expanding cooperation across strategic sectors including defence, agriculture, education, health, tourism, and science and technology, with emphasis on increasing business engagement through chambers of commerce agreements.

President Prabowo Arrives in Indonesia Following State Visits to the US, UK, Jordan, and UAE

President Prabowo Subianto returned to Indonesia on 27 February 2026 following high-profile state visits to the United States, United Kingdom, Jordan, and the United Arab Emirates. During his tour, Prabowo presided over significant business agreements worth $38.4 billion with the US, signed a reciprocal trade agreement with President Trump, and met with key global investment leaders and regional partners.

Depok Child's Running Race Dispute Escalates, Police Mediate Parents

A viral video showing a confrontation between parents in Depok's Cimanggis district sparked controversy after a youth running race, with parents incorrectly claiming a police officer's child was involved in violence. Police investigation confirmed no children of officers were involved in the misunderstanding and resolved the matter through family mediation, with parents issuing joint statements and apology videos.

Parliamentary Budget Committee Chair Calls for Cancellation of Pickup Truck Imports from India

The Chair of the Parliamentary Budget Committee (DPR), Said Abdullah, has called for the cancellation of plans to import 150,000 pickup trucks from India for use by the Red and White Village Cooperatives (Kopdes Merah Putih). Abdullah argues that the import policy contradicts the government's efforts to strengthen domestic industry and rural economies, and cites economic analyses projecting losses of approximately Rp 39.

Debt Collector Stabbing of Advocate in Tangerang Referred to Metro Police Headquarters

South Tangerang Police have officially transferred the investigation into the stabbing of advocate BST by a debt collector to Jakarta Metro Police Headquarters. One of the three suspects, JBI, was arrested in Semarang on 24 February 2026, whilst two others remain at large.

Baznas Distributes Breaking Fast Meals from Indonesian Community Donations to Gaza Residents

Indonesia's National Zakat Agency (Baznas) has distributed 1,314 Ramadan breaking fast meal packages donated by Indonesian citizens to residents of Gaza, Palestine. Baznas chairman Noor Achmad stated that the distribution addresses the critical food shortage in Gaza during Ramadan and represents a priority effort to ensure Palestinians receive adequate nutrition during the holy month despite ongoing logistical challenges and unstable conditions.

S&P Warns of Potential Downgrade in Indonesia's Debt Rating as IHSG Declines 1.5%

Standard & Poor's has issued a warning regarding a potential downgrade of Indonesia's debt rating, coinciding with a sharp decline in the Indonesian stock market. The IHSG (Composite Stock Index) fell 1.5% to reach 8,093 during Friday's opening session (27 February 2026), whilst the Indonesian Rupiah weakened to Rp 16,780 per US Dollar, reflecting broader market pressures responding to the credit rating concerns.

Divorced Couple with Combined Tax ID Numbers: Here's the Solution!

Indonesia's Directorate General of Taxes (DJP) has provided guidance for couples who divorce after combining their tax identification numbers (NPWP). The separation of NPWPs can be initiated through the updated Coretax system once family registration documents reflect the divorce, with each party then required to file separate annual tax returns and update their tax account information accordingly.

Palembang-Pangkalan Balai Toll Road Opens Functionally for Ramadan Holiday Travel

PT Hutama Karya will operationalise the Palembang–Pangkalan Balai toll road sections (spanning 53.2 kilometres) in functional mode to support smooth traffic flow during the 2026 Ramadan holiday exodus, with construction 79.4 per cent complete and all safety aspects verified. The operational sections include temporary toll gates, rest areas, and full traffic management protocols, with the road featuring the 1.684-kilometre Musi V Bridge and two toll gates at Rengas and Pangkalan Balai.

Man Arrested as Suspect in Attack on Female Student in Riau

Police in Pekanbaru have formally arrested a 21-year-old man identified as R as the suspect in an attack on a 23-year-old female student at Sultan Syarief Kasim State Islamic University (UIN Suska) using a sharp weapon. The assault, which occurred on 26 February whilst the victim was awaiting a thesis examination, was motivated by romantic disputes, and investigators say the suspect had premeditated the attack by bringing the weapon from home.

Two Muslim Nations in Open War: Pakistan Launches Airstrikes on Afghanistan

Pakistan has declared open war on the Taliban government in Afghanistan, launching airstrikes on Kabul and Kandahar on 27 February 2026 in response to an Afghan military attack on Pakistani border forces. The escalation follows Pakistan's longstanding accusation that Afghanistan harbours the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), a Taliban splinter group, which uses Afghan territory to plan and execute cross-border attacks into Pakistan.

South Jakarta Police Deploy Personnel to Manage Ramadan Street Markets

The South Jakarta Metropolitan Police have deployed 150 personnel across five key locations in South Jakarta to maintain order at informal street markets during Ramadan, operating between 16:00 and 18:00 WIB. The security focus targets peak hours before iftar (breaking of fast) when public activity increases significantly, with coordination involving local authorities, community safety groups, and online motorcycle taxi drivers.

Academics and Activists Criticise Red-White Village Cooperative Project

Academics and development advocates have raised significant concerns about the Red-White Village Cooperative (Kopdes Merah Putih) project, criticising its top-down management approach as potentially repeating past failures of centralised cooperative programmes. The project, which mandates simultaneous establishment across 80,000 villages and has allocated 58.

Minister for Village Development and Ministry of Cooperatives Call for Alfamart and Indomaret to Halt Village Expansion

The Indonesian government will evaluate the licensing process for new modern retail outlets to allow small traders and SMEs greater business freedom, whilst enabling the Merah Putih Village Cooperative (KDMP) to strengthen rural economies.

Online Brompton Bicycle Fraud Scheme Leaves Sleman Pensioner Hundreds of Millions Rupiah in Debt

A 62-year-old retired civil servant from Sleman, Eko Suhargono, has lost 279.2 million rupiah to an online fraud scheme involving the sale of Brompton folding bicycles. The perpetrator impersonated an old acquaintance via WhatsApp and gradually convinced the victim to transfer money under various pretexts including negotiation fees, invoicing costs, VAT payments, and administration charges. The case has been reported to Sleman Police (Polresta Sleman) and is currently under investigation.

Man Killed By Forklift In Cilincing Port Area, North Jakarta; Operator Detained

A fatal workplace accident occurred in the container terminal area of Cilincing, North Jakarta on Thursday evening when a man was crushed beneath a forklift. The victim, whose identity remains unconfirmed, was positioned in the operator's blind spot after a passing container truck cleared, leading to the collision. The forklift operator has been detained by Cilincing police pending investigation to determine whether the incident resulted from negligence or other circumstances.

CT ARSA Foundation Spreads Ramadan Joy Through Gebrag Kalcer Roadshow

CT ARSA Foundation has launched a Ramadan roadshow called Gebrag Kalcer to distribute aid and happiness to underprivileged and marginalised communities across seven Indonesian locations from February to early March. The initiative will provide nutritious meals, essential goods packages, gifts for orphans, and literacy and religious activities, with the foundation aiming to break the cycle of poverty through education and healthcare and inspire young people to serve vulnerable communities.

Rice is Not the Cause of Abdominal Fat, Here's What Nutritionists Say

A leading nutrition expert from IPB University refutes the common misconception that rice causes obesity, explaining that the issue lies in consumption quantity and eating habits rather than the food itself. The professor emphasises that health cannot be determined by appearance alone and that balanced nutrition combined with appropriate lifestyle choices is key to preventing chronic diseases linked to excess weight.

Former KPAI Chief Commends Police for Dismantling Baby-Selling Syndicate

The former head of Indonesia's Child Protection Commission has praised the Police's Criminal Investigation Directorate (Bareskrim) for dismantling a human trafficking syndicate operating a baby-selling operation that resulted in 12 arrests and the rescue of 7 infants. The case, which expanded from a previous child abduction investigation, represents a serious crime against humanity that authorities have pursued across multiple Indonesian provinces and regions.

Parliament queries urgency of training thousands of civil servants as reserve components

A member of parliament's Commission II has questioned the government's rationale for involving civil servants in reserve component (Komcad) military training, citing concerns about potential militarisation of the bureaucracy and the independence of public service.

Home renovation programme for Quranic memorisers in Jakarta to resume this year

Jakarta's Baznas/Bazis foundation will conduct its third home renovation programme for Quranic memorisers in 2026, targeting 20 homes for residents with substandard housing conditions. Applicants must have memorised at least five chapters of the Quran and meet strict eligibility criteria, with budgets ranging from Rp30 to Rp55 million per home, reflecting the foundation's commitment to supporting religious scholars facing economic hardship.

Police Deploy Cordons at Multiple Points to Prevent High School Students from Joining BEM UI Demonstration at Police Headquarters

The Metro Jaya Police Department has deployed thousands of personnel and established cordons at multiple points to manage a University of Indonesia Student Executive Board (BEM UI) demonstration scheduled for 27 February 2026 at the National Police Headquarters in South Jakarta. The security measures aim to prevent high school students from joining the protest and to ensure the demonstration remains composed exclusively of university students as authorised.

West Nusa Tenggara Police Investigate Sexual Exploitation Case Involving New Zealand Citizen

The West Nusa Tenggara Regional Police are investigating alleged sexual exploitation by a New Zealand citizen identified as RMS, who operates a hotel in Sekotong, West Lombok Regency. Three local victims reported the case on 29 January, claiming they were coerced into sexual activities and that incidents were documented on video.

Wolbachia Technology Proven Effective in Preventing Dengue, ASEAN Nations Begin Developing the Technology

Indonesia's Ministry of Health is implementing Wolbachia technology to reduce dengue transmission, with pilot programmes underway in Semarang, Jakarta Barat, Bandung, Kupang, and Bontang. Research conducted by the World Mosquito Program from 2011–2022 demonstrated that Aedes aegypti mosquitoes carrying Wolbachia reduced dengue cases by 77.1%, and the World Health Organization recommended the technology for dengue control in 2021.

Former Pertamina International Shipping Chief Yoki Firnandi Sentenced to 9 Years in Prison for Corruption

Yoki Firnandi, former Director General of Pertamina International Shipping, has been sentenced to 9 years in prison and a fine of Rp 1 billion by the Corruption Court for his involvement in crude oil and refinery product mismanagement at Pertamina between 2018-2023.

Mark This Down! You Need This Much Money to Be Considered Wealthy in 2026

Global standards for wealth are shifting in 2026, with being considered upper class no longer measured solely by salary but by financial resilience against economic risks and uncertainty. Financial experts estimate that in the United States, upper-class net worth ranges from US$2 million to US$5 million (approximately IDR31.4 billion to IDR78.

Ministry of Higher Education: 5,040 Students Involved in Aceh Post-Disaster Recovery

The Indonesian Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology has mobilised 5,040 students from 36 universities to support post-disaster recovery efforts in Aceh through the Student Impact Programme. The initiative, funded through 102 approved proposals, encompasses assistance in clean water provision, sanitation improvement, food security, education, health support, and environmental rehabilitation.

US grant of $2.49 million strengthens Nusantara Capital smart city project

The Nusantara Capital Authority has secured a US grant of approximately $2.49 million from the United States Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) to strengthen technical assistance for the new Indonesian capital's smart city project across parts of East Kalimantan. The funding will support the development of a comprehensive blueprint for a digitally-advanced, sustainable, and future-oriented capital city, with digital transformation serving as a foundational pillar.

Reason Riva Siahaan Remains Imprisoned Despite Not Benefiting from Oil Corruption Proceeds

A panel of judges at the Jakarta Corruption Court has sentenced Riva Siahaan, former Chief Executive of PT Pertamina Patra Niaga, to nine years imprisonment for corruption in oil governance that caused state losses of Rp 9.4 trillion, despite finding no evidence that he personally benefited from the corruption.

BEM UI Holds Solidarity Demonstration for Arianto Tawakal at National Police Headquarters

The Student Executive Board of the University of Indonesia (BEM UI) organised a protest demonstration at the National Police Headquarters (Mabes Polri) on 27 February in solidarity with Arianto Tawakal, a 14-year-old student who died following an assault by a Brimob police officer in Maluku.

Red Shallot and Red Chilli Prices Fall, Check the List

Bank Indonesia's Strategic Food Price Information Centre (PIHPS) has reported a decline in prices for red shallots (down to IDR 43,400 per kg) and red chillies (down to IDR 73,900 per kg), reflecting easing pressure on key staple food costs. The report provides a comprehensive price update across various food commodities at retail trader level across Indonesia, including rice of different grades, cooking oil, meat, sugar, and eggs.

The Ten Banks with the Largest Profits in ASEAN: Singapore versus Indonesia Competition

Leading banking institutions across Southeast Asia have released their latest financial reports, revealing a competitive landscape in the regional financial sector. Singapore-based banks continue to dominate the top positions, with DBS Group leading at Rp145.08 trillion in net profit, followed by OCBC and UOB, whilst Indonesian banks demonstrate strong fundamentals with BCA, BRI, and Mandiri securing fourth to sixth positions regionally.

Pramono Urged to Form Task Force to Investigate 185 Unlicensed Padel Courts in Jakarta

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has been called upon to establish a task force to investigate 185 padel courts operating without proper Building Approval Permits (PBG), representing nearly half of the 397 courts currently operational in the capital.

BGN Claims Rp 6 Million Daily Incentive for Nutrition Facilities is Efficient

Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has defended its Rp 6 million daily incentive scheme for nutrition service facilities (SPPG), arguing it represents an efficient public-private partnership model rather than wasteful spending.

Firecracker Throwers Apologise to Angkot Driver in Tangerang; Case Resolved Amicably

Three youths who went viral for throwing firecrackers at a public minibus (angkot) driver in Tangerang have apologised and resolved the matter peacefully with police mediation. The case involved two drivers aged 51, and the three perpetrators aged 16-21, who confessed to their wrongdoing and made a joint settlement agreement with the victims. Police emphasised the need for public awareness, particularly among teenagers, to avoid dangerous and illegal actions for social media attention.

Continued Decline: Indonesia's Traditional Grocery Stalls Dwindle to 3.9 Million

Indonesia's traditional grocery stalls (warung kelontong) have fallen sharply from 6.1 million in 2007 to 3.9 million by end-2025, with over 2.2 million closures driven by modern retail expansion and relaxed licensing policies. The Association of Indonesian Street Traders (APKLI) is urging the government to strengthen enforcement of regulations governing modern retail establishments and to enforce zoning rules that consider social and economic impacts on small traders.

Parliamentary Commission III Member Demands Transparent and Professional Legal Process for Sailor Fandi

A member of Parliament's Commission III has called for the legal proceedings against Fandi Ramadhan, a sailor facing the death penalty in an alleged two-tonne methamphetamine smuggling case, to be conducted with transparency and professionalism. The MP requested that law enforcement authorities be summoned to Parliament to provide public explanations, emphasising the importance of ensuring due process while supporting the government's anti-narcotics efforts.

Gold Prices Today 27 February 2026: Antam Products Shine, Global Prices Vary

Antam gold products are priced at IDR 3.045 million per gram on 27 February 2026, up IDR 6,000 from the previous day's trading, with buyback prices set at IDR 2.824 million per gram. Global gold prices remain relatively stable at USD 5,187.39 per ounce in spot markets, whilst US futures contracts for April delivery rose 0.2 per cent to USD 5,204.1 per ounce, as investors digest US-Iran nuclear negotiations and dollar movements.

Google launches Nano Banana 2, an upgraded artificial intelligence model

Google has unveiled Nano Banana 2, an advanced artificial intelligence image generation model powered by Gemini 3.1 Flash Image, featuring faster processing speeds whilst maintaining the capabilities of its predecessor. The model can generate image variations from text prompts, pull real-time information from web searches, create infographics, and produce 4K resolution images with enhanced texture and detail.

Military Involvement in Counter-Terrorism Efforts Conflicts with International Legal Principles

Legal experts have rejected a proposed presidential regulation that would involve the Indonesian military (TNI) in counter-terrorism operations, arguing it contradicts international legal principles and undermines post-reform civilian governance structures.

DKI Jakarta Free Holiday Transport Scheme 2026 Cluster 3: When Will Registration Open? Full Schedule

The DKI Jakarta provincial government's Free Mudik (homecoming) Scheme for 2026 will open registration for Cluster 3 from 28 February to 2 March, serving destinations including Wonogiri, Kediri, Malang, Semarang, and other Central Java cities. Motorcycles will depart on 16 March 2026 from Pulogadung Terminal, whilst passenger transport departs on 17 March from the National Monument, with return journeys scheduled for 25-26 March.

Police Request Bekasi Environmental Agency Compensate Residents Affected by Garbage Truck Through Sumur Batu

Police in Bantargebang District have requested that Bekasi City's Environmental Services Agency (DLH) provide compensation to residents affected by garbage trucks using a residential road as an alternative route to Sumur Batu landfill, following a landslide that blocked the primary access road.

Citizenship and Values Controversy: LHS Calls on Public for National Introspection

The controversy surrounding Dwi Sasetyaningtyas, an alumna of the state Education Fund Management Institute (LPDP), has sparked debate over citizenship and obligations to Indonesia after her social media posts raised questions about her child's status as an Indonesian citizen.

Police Question Women Allegedly Extorting Garbage Truck Drivers in Sumur Batu

Police in Bekasi have summoned several women suspected of conducting illegal extortion (pungli) against garbage truck drivers using a residential lane in Sumur Batu, Bantargebang District.

Indonesia tightens animal health standards as Saudi Arabia limits poultry imports

Indonesia's Ministry of Agriculture is strengthening its animal health and biosecurity systems in response to Saudi Arabia's restrictions on poultry imports, viewing the measure as an opportunity to enhance market credibility and competitiveness.

98,000 Train Tickets Still Available for Lebaran Holiday Exodus 2026

PT KAI Daop 1 Jakarta reports that 98,000 train tickets remain available for the 2026 Lebaran holiday travel period from 11 to 20 March, with 541,000 tickets already sold. The operator has deployed 86 long-distance train services daily across its network, comprising 68 regular services plus 12 additional trains from Gambir Station and 6 from Pasar Senen Station, all undergoing rigorous maintenance and safety inspections in accordance with established protocols.

Police Headquarters Secured by 3,093 Personnel as BEM UI Holds Afternoon Protest

The Jakarta Metro Police has deployed 3,093 personnel to secure a student demonstration planned for Friday, 27 February 2026, at the Police Headquarters in South Jakarta, organised by Universitas Indonesia's student executive body. The protest is in response to the death of a 14-year-old student, Arianto Tawakal, involving a Brimob member now classified as a suspect.

Clarifying the Governance and Budgeting of the Free Nutritious Meal Programme

This article, authored by a DPR Budget Commission member, defends President Prabowo's Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme whilst outlining governance improvements needed in its implementation.

National Police Chief Calls for Unity: Police and Citizens Striving Together for Indonesia's Progress

National Police Chief (Kapolri) General Listyo Sigit Prabowo has called for unity between the Indonesian National Police (Polri) and civil society to address global uncertainties and advance the nation. Speaking at an iftar gathering with youth organisations and students, he emphasised that both Polri and civilians must work together equitably, utilising their respective strengths and expertise to achieve the vision of a more prosperous Indonesia by 2045.

Prabowo and UAE President forge stronger strategic ties in Abu Dhabi

Indonesia's President Prabowo Subianto held a bilateral meeting with UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi, reinforcing diplomatic ties and discussing expanded cooperation in energy, investment, and economic development as the two nations mark 50 years of diplomatic relations.

Restructuring Import Strategy Following Trade Agreements

Indonesia must strategically rebalance its import composition following new trade agreements with the United States and India, particularly given significant trade surpluses with both partners. Rather than expanding total import volumes, the agreements will necessitate redistribution of supply sources—potentially reducing imports from countries with which Indonesia has deficits (such as China and Singapore) whilst increasing purchases from new trading partners.

NasDem Proposes Raising Parliamentary Threshold to 7 Per Cent, Democrat Party References Constitutional Court Ruling

The National Democrat Party (NasDem) has proposed raising Indonesia's parliamentary threshold from the current 4 per cent to 7 per cent, a position reiterated by party leadership.

Where Is Emon?

This op-ed examines the case of Emon (alias Andri Sobari), a convicted child sexual abuser reportedly released and residing in Sukabumi, highlighting concerns about his rehabilitation, reintegration, and recidivism risk. The columnist warns that predators like Emon often exploit charm and social positions—such as muezzin or dangdut singer—to groom victims, and notes his documented ability to remember details of dozens of victims, raising questions about public child protection mechanisms.

Perum Bulog Chief Conducts Surprise Inspection of Food Prices in Semarang, Ensuring Stable Prices Ahead of Ramadan

Perum Bulog's Chief Operating Officer conducted a surprise inspection of food prices at traditional markets in Semarang to ensure price stability ahead of Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr 2026. The inspection found that most essential commodities, particularly rice and animal protein, remained stable or even declined in price, though chilli prices increased due to adverse weather affecting agricultural production.

IPB University Professor Responds to LPDP Scholarship Recipient Controversy Over "I'll Be the Only Indonesian Citizen" Statement

An IPB University professor has responded to controversy surrounding an LPDP scholarship recipient's statement suggesting they alone should be an Indonesian citizen, arguing the incident reflects important lessons about national consciousness, social media ethics, and Indonesia's human resource development strategy.

Baznas RI Distributes 400 Iftar Food Packages to Waste Pickers in Tebet

Indonesia's National Zakat Agency (Baznas) distributed 400 ready-to-eat iftar (breaking-of-fast) meals to economically disadvantaged residents of Kampung Gasong (Gasong Village) in Jakarta's Tebet district as part of its annual Blessed Ramadhan Meal Programme.

100 TNI AL Personnel Trained as Crew for Garibaldi Aircraft Carrier in Italy

The Indonesian Ministry of Defence announced that approximately 100 TNI AL (Indonesian Navy) personnel will be sent to Italy for training to become crew members of the Giuseppe Garibaldi aircraft carrier before it enters service. The training programme is the initial phase of crew development and will include direct on-board instruction during the vessel's voyage from Italy to Indonesia.

Check BPNT Food Assistance 2026 Phase 1 Disbursement of IDR 600,000: How to Check Recipient Name via Mobile Phone

The Indonesian government has begun disbursing the first phase of the 2026 Non-Cash Food Assistance (BPNT) programme, providing IDR 600,000 per household for January–March 2026. Recipients can verify their eligibility and disbursement status through the official Cek Bansos portal (cekbansos.kemensos.go.id) or mobile application by entering their identification number.

Former Mutiara Hotel on Malioboro Placed Under Cooperation Agreement; DIY Regional Government to Receive 67 Per Cent Revenue Share

The Special Region of Yogyakarta (DIY) regional government has formalised a 30-year cooperation agreement with PT Setia Mataram Tritunggal for the management of the defunct Mutiara Hotel 2 on Malioboro, following an open tender process announced twice in national media in October 2025.

Police Provide Trauma Counselling to Mother of Murder Victim and Perpetrator

North Jakarta Metro Police have provided trauma healing services, including hypnotherapy, to the mother of a 22-year-old murder victim and his 16-year-old sibling who committed the crime. The incident occurred on 24 February in Kelapa Gading, Jakarta Utara, when the younger brother repeatedly struck his older sibling with a hammer, allegedly motivated by family tensions and perceived parental favouritism.

Eight Million People Estimated to Enter and Exit Yogyakarta During Lebaran 2026 Migration

The Yogyakarta Regional Transportation Department estimates approximately eight million people will enter and exit the Special Region of Yogyakarta during the Lebaran 2026 holiday migration period. Traffic congestion is expected particularly in Tempel District, Sleman Regency, rather than toll road areas, based on lessons learned from the 2025/2026 Christmas and New Year holiday period.

Commission VII Parliament: Bali must be budget priority as it supports foreign exchange

The Deputy Chair of Commission VII of Indonesia's House of Representatives has called for Bali to be prioritised in the national budget, citing the province's contribution of approximately 44 per cent of tourism-related foreign exchange earnings in 2024. She emphasised that the government must provide proportional fiscal support to address infrastructure, waste management, traffic congestion, and environmental challenges whilst maintaining the destination's global competitiveness.

KCI Investigates Report of Alleged Sexual Harassment on Jakarta Kota-Bogor KRL Route

A woman reported being sexually harassed aboard a KRL train on the Jakarta Kota-Bogor route in an incident that occurred on 22 January 2026. KAI Commuter officials confirmed they have taken action on the complaint and pledged full support to the victim in pursuing legal proceedings whilst urging passengers to report all forms of harassment without hesitation. The case highlights ongoing concerns about passenger safety and security on Jakarta's public transport system.

West Java Governor States Motor Vehicle Tax and Transfer Fee Will Not Increase in 2026

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has announced that motor vehicle tax (PKB) and vehicle transfer fee (BBNKB) will remain unchanged in 2026, with rates staying at 2025 levels. The governor has also implemented tax relief for commercial vehicles with yellow number plates effective from 1 January 2026, reducing passenger transport tax from 60 per cent to 30 per cent and freight transport tax from 100 per cent to 70 per cent.

184,000 PBI JKN Recipients Transferred to Civil Servant and State-Owned Enterprise Employee Segment

Indonesia's Social Minister Saifullah Yusuf announced that 869,000 of 11 million previously inactive Health Insurance Premium Assistance (PBI JKN) recipients have been reactivated or transferred through various schemes.

Ramadan: Jasa Tirta II Strengthens Internal Consolidation

Perum Jasa Tirta II, Indonesia's state-owned water management company, has launched its annual Ramadan Safari programme across four operational regions as a strategic initiative to strengthen internal consolidation and enhance coordination between units. Managing Director Imam Santoso emphasised that the programme extends beyond religious observance to ensure optimal, sustainable, and accountable water resource management.

Danantara eyes new state airline holding company by H1 2026

Indonesia's state-owned airline holding company Danantara plans to establish a consolidated holding structure encompassing Garuda Indonesia, its low-cost subsidiary Citilink, and Pelita Air Service by the first half of 2026, with Garuda serving as the parent company. The consolidation aims to optimise operations through integrated booking systems, mileage programmes, fleet sharing, and improved cost efficiency across the three carriers.

Astra International records revenue of IDR 323.4 trillion in 2025

PT Astra International Tbk (ASII) reported net revenue of IDR 323.4 trillion in 2025, a modest 2 per cent year-on-year decline from IDR 328.5 trillion in 2024, alongside a net profit of IDR 32.8 trillion (down 3 per cent), attributed primarily to lower coal prices and a weakened automotive market. The company proposed a final dividend of IDR 292 per share, bringing total 2025 dividends to IDR 390 per share with a 48 per cent payout ratio, whilst completing buyback programmes worth IDR 2.

United Tractors (UNTR) Net Profit Falls 24% to Rp14.8 Trillion in 2025

United Tractors (UNTR) reported a 24% decline in net profit to Rp14.8 trillion in 2025, driven by lower contributions from its mining contractor segment hit by heavy rainfall and thermal coal operations affected by lower coal prices, partially offset by gold price strength. Consolidated net revenue fell 2% to Rp131.

Japanese National Dies After Being Struck by Truck Load; Karawang Driver Sentenced to 2 Years Imprisonment

A dump truck driver named Mamat (39) in Karawang has been sentenced to two years' imprisonment following the death of a 63-year-old Japanese national, Yukihiro Nabae, who was struck by the truck's load of coal ash on the Karawang Western Toll Road on 30 July 2025.

Indonesia court jails ex-CEOs of Pertamina units in major graft case

An Indonesian court has sentenced nine people, including two former chief executives of Pertamina subsidiaries, to prison terms ranging from nine to 15 years in a major corruption case involving illegal fuel terminal leasing and crude oil imports that prosecutors allege caused US$17 billion in state losses.

Commission XI House of Representatives Warns Against Food Supplies Rising in Price During Ramadan

Commission XI chairman Mukhamad Misbakhun has warned against food price inflation during Ramadan and ahead of Eid, emphasising that adequate food supplies must not be accompanied by rising prices. Following a visit to North Sumatra, the Commission is prioritising three key measures: ensuring food supply stability, restructuring payment systems for disaster-affected regions, and guaranteeing monetary liquidity.

BGN Denies Having MBG TV Programme

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has denied that MBG TV, a television network that went viral on social media, is an official programme run by the agency. Deputy Head of BGN's Communications and Investigation Division Nanik Sudaryati Deyang confirmed that neither the agency nor its head, Dadan Hindayana, have any knowledge of or involvement with the MBG TV initiative.

Sleeping Driver Triggers Collision, Transjakarta Launches Special Hotline for Bus Operators

Transjakarta has launched a dedicated hotline for bus drivers following a collision caused by driver fatigue on Corridor 13. The initiative, accompanied by a safety rally for hundreds of drivers and partner operators, aims to embed safety culture across the company's operations, which served 413 million passengers in 2025.

Kerry Adrianto sentenced to 15 years' imprisonment

A Jakarta Corruption Court has sentenced Muhamad Kerry Adrianto Riza, the beneficial owner of PT Navigator Khatulistiwa and son of prominent businessman Riza Chalid, to 15 years' imprisonment for alleged corruption in crude oil and refined product management at state oil company PT Pertamina. Two other defendants, Dimas Werhaspati and Gading Ramadhan Joedo, received 13-year sentences, with Adrianto also ordered to pay replacement funds of approximately Rp2.9 trillion.

MenPAN-RB Drives Transformation of Public Services in Digital Government

Indonesia's government is accelerating its transformation towards an integrated, data-driven digital government framework through the National Digital Government Master Plan 2025-2045.

Riza Chalid's Son Sentenced to 15 Years' Imprisonment and Rp1 Billion Fine

Muhammad Kerry Andrianto Riza, son of suspect Riza Chalid, has been sentenced to 15 years' imprisonment for corruption involving crude oil and refinery product management at PT Pertamina between 2018 and 2023. He was found to have enriched himself by Rp2.9 trillion and caused state losses of Rp285.18 trillion, and must also pay a Rp1 billion fine and Rp2.9 trillion in restitution within an extended five-year period.

Immunisation is Key to Preventing Measles

Indonesia's Ministry of Health has emphasised that measles-rubella (MR) immunisation is the most effective measure for preventing measles transmission, with officials stressing the importance of achieving high and equitable vaccination coverage nationwide.

Bank Indonesia Currency Exchange Booking Quota Exhausted for Java Region

Bank Indonesia's currency exchange booking quota for Period 2 in the Java region has been fully exhausted as of Friday, 27 February 2026, just three days after registration opened on 24 February. The quota for currency exchanges scheduled between 28 February and 15 March 2026 is now filled, with no go-show walk-in exchanges permitted without prior booking through the Pintar BI application.

Attorney General Pressed to Pursue Riza Chalid Following Kerry's 15-Year Prison Sentence

Muhamad Kerry Adrianto Riza has been sentenced to 15 years in prison for corruption related to crude oil management at Pertamina, with anti-corruption activists welcoming the verdict but urging the Attorney General to apprehend the principal suspect, Riza Chalid, who is currently a fugitive.

Tropical Plants Now Flowering "Erratically" Due to Climate Change

A comprehensive analysis of botanical records spanning over 200 years reveals that tropical plant species are flowering significantly earlier than their natural schedules due to climate change, contradicting earlier assumptions that equatorial regions were insulated from seasonal climate shifts.

Bombardment Barrage: Russia Launches 420 Drones and 39 Missiles at Ukraine

Russian forces launched 420 drones and 39 missiles against Ukraine overnight on 26-27 February 2026, targeting critical infrastructure and residential areas across multiple cities including Zaporizhzhia and areas surrounding Kyiv. President Zelensky condemned the strikes, which occurred hours before Ukrainian and US officials were scheduled to meet in Geneva for peace negotiations.

Seeking Justice for Sea Dragon Crew Member: Hotman Paris Steps In, Family Pleads at Parliament

High-profile lawyer Hotman Paris Hutapea appeared before Indonesia's parliamentary commission to defend crew member Fandi Ramadhan, who faces a death sentence in a drug smuggling case involving nearly 2 tonnes of methamphetamine on the vessel Sea Dragon. Hutapea argued that Fandi, who had only worked aboard the ship for three days, had no knowledge of the drugs and repeatedly questioned the ship's captain about mysterious cargo boxes that were allegedly told to contain gold and money.

DPR Budget Committee Chair Said Abdullah Clarifies Free Nutritious Meals Programme Budget Allocation in National Budget

The Chair of the DPR's Budget Committee, Said Abdullah, has responded to controversy surrounding the allocation of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme by explaining the budget governance framework within the 2025 and 2026 National Budget. The government and DPR have allocated Rp 71 trillion for MBG in 2025 and Rp 268 trillion in 2026, positioning it within the education budget line item which constitutionally comprises 20 per cent of state expenditure.

When 1,008 Oil Lamps and Damaru Drums Illuminate the Night at Prambanan Temple

Indonesia held its first Mahashivaratri ceremony at Prambanan Temple in February 2026, organised collaboratively by the Ministries of Tourism, Religion, and Culture along with Hindu organisations. The sacred Hindu festival, featuring 1,008 oil lamps and traditional damaru drums, was held at the 9th-century temple complex straddling Sleman and Klaten districts as the closing event of the Prambanan Shiva Festival.

BLUD Procurement Becomes More Transparent and Accountable Through Digital Marketplace Adoption

The Indonesian government is advancing digital transformation in regional financial management through the Lokapasar Mitra LKPP RI digital marketplace to improve efficiency, transparency, and accountability in BLUD (Regional Public Service Bodies) procurement. The Ministry of Home Affairs conducted a nationwide webinar attended by nearly 1,000 participants from various BLUD units, including hospitals, health centres, and schools, to accelerate adoption of digital procurement mechanisms.

Instagram's new safeguard to protect teenagers from self-harm

Instagram has announced new protective measures for teenage users, including notifying parents when adolescents repeatedly search for content related to suicide or self-harm within short timeframes. The notification system integrates with Instagram's parental monitoring feature and directs parents to supportive resources for addressing sensitive conversations with their teenagers.

Drug Dealer Ko Erwin Arrested in Connection with Former Bima City Police Chief

Drug trafficking kingpin Erwin Iskandar, alias Ko Erwin, has been arrested by the Indonesian National Police's Criminal Investigation Directorate in Tanjung Balai, North Sumatra, whilst attempting to flee to Malaysia. The arrest is connected to an ongoing corruption and drug-trafficking scandal involving former Bima City Police Chief AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro and former drug taskforce head AKP Malaungi, who allegedly received substantial payments and narcotics from Ko Erwin.

Maintaining Fitness During Ramadan: The Importance of Physical Activity and Sleep Hygiene

An IPB University medical faculty lecturer advises maintaining proportional physical activity and proper sleep hygiene during Ramadan to preserve fitness and energy levels. Beyond exercise, balanced nutrition with adequate hydration and improved sleep practices—such as cooling bedroom temperature and avoiding gadgets before bed—are essential for health and productivity throughout the fasting month.

KPK Examines Eight Village Chiefs and Officials in Extortion Case Involving Pati Regent Sudewo

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) interrogated 14 witnesses, including eight village chiefs and officials from Pati Regency, in connection with alleged extortion charges against suspended Regent Sudewo. The investigation focuses on claims that village officials were coerced into paying bribes to Sudewo through coordinators in exchange for village position appointments.

BRI, BNI, Mandiri and BTN Actively Distributing Dividends: Who is the Most Generous?

Indonesia's four major state-owned banks—BRI, BNI, Mandiri, and BTN—have demonstrated significantly increased dividend yields from 2022 through 2026 projections, with state asset manager Danantara actively pushing higher dividend payout ratios. Bank Mandiri leads with projected 2026 yields of 7.32%, whilst BNI and BTN have shown the most dramatic growth trajectories, with BNI surging from 1.81% in 2022 to 7.88% projected for 2026.

Bulog Chief Inspects Food Prices and Stock in Semarang Markets Ahead of Lebaran 2026

Ahmad Rizal Ramdhani, Director General of State Logistics Agency (Bulog), inspected food prices and supplies at Semarang markets to ensure price stability during Ramadan and Lebaran 2026. Most basic commodities including rice and meat remain stable in line with official maximum retail prices, though chilli prices have risen due to extreme weather conditions.

Social and Rural Development Ministers Promote DTSEN in Karawang, Ensure Welfare Assistance Reaches Intended Recipients

Indonesia's Minister of Social Affairs Saifullah Yusuf and Minister of Villages and Disadvantaged Region Development Yandri Susanto held a joint socialisation event in Karawang, West Java, to promote the National Socio-Economic Data (DTSEN) system as the primary reference for targeted government welfare distribution and programmes, in accordance with Presidential Instruction No. 4 of 2025.

Indonesian Navy to train 500 personnel in Italy for aircraft carrier

Indonesia's TNI AL (Navy) plans to train approximately 100 personnel in Italy as part of preparations for operating the country's first aircraft carrier, with around 500 sailors ultimately needed to crew the vessel. The training programme will include onboard exercises during the carrier's voyage from Italy to Indonesia, with the Defence Ministry emphasising the need for specially qualified personnel and supporting infrastructure for long-term operations.

Trump's 15 Per Cent Tariff Emerges as IHSG Threat, Market Correction Risk of up to 7 Per Cent Looms

US President Donald Trump's proposed 15 per cent import tariff has sparked concerns in global financial markets, with analysts warning Indonesia's Composite Stock Price Index (IHSG) faces potential pressure from foreign fund outflows and risk-off sentiment. A significant capital outflow triggered by trade tensions could trigger index corrections ranging from 3-7 per cent in the short term, particularly if the IHSG fails to hold key technical support levels around 8,135-8,200.

CT ARSA Foundation Launches Roadshow with Ramadan Sharing Movement, Bringing Education and Nutritious Food

CT ARSA Foundation has launched a week-long roadshow across seven Indonesian locations from Jakarta to Yogyakarta to distribute nutritious food, basic supplies, and educational resources to underprivileged and marginalised communities during Ramadan. The initiative, called Gerakan Berbagi Kala Ceria (Gebrag Kalcer), aims to address poverty through quality education, health services, and includes literacy programmes and religious activities such as Quran recitation competitions.

Evos Esports Expands Community Outreach

Evos Esports has expanded its community engagement initiatives as part of its eight-year partnership with Pop Mie, celebrating the advancement of Indonesia's esports industry with international-level competitions. The organisation is launching an expanded Campus Gaming Ground programme that will reach secondary cities and grassroots communities beyond the Jakarta metropolitan area, whilst collaborating with local artists to develop new merchandise offerings.

East Jakarta Administration Partners with Police and Religious Leaders to Prevent Youth Clashes During Ramadhan

East Jakarta's city administration is collaborating with police, military, and religious and community leaders to prevent youth clashes during the holy month of Ramadhan. The coordinated effort includes deploying integrated security posts across 10 sub-districts and emphasises the critical role of moral guidance from religious figures and community engagement in maintaining peace.

Female Student at UIN Suska Riau Slashed by Fellow Student Before Thesis Defence Hearing

A 23-year-old female student at Sultan Syarif Kasim Islamic State University (UIN Suska Riau) was attacked and slashed with an axe by a fellow student whilst waiting for her thesis proposal defence hearing on 26 February. The 21-year-old male suspect, identified as R, has been apprehended by campus security and is being held at Binawidya Police Station; police suspect the motive relates to a romantic relationship but are continuing their investigation.

Are Islamic Banks Really More Expensive, Complicated, Just Relabelled, and Not Truly Sharia-Compliant?

In response to Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa's criticism that Islamic banks in Indonesia charge higher margins than conventional banks and merely relabel conventional products, the Secretary General of the Indonesian Islamic Economists Association argues that Islamic banks operate on fundamentally different principles including real underlying transactions and risk-sharing mechanisms.

Task Force accelerates realisation of 17,969 permanent housing units in Aceh and Sumatra

Indonesia's Acceleration Task Force for Post-Disaster Rehabilitation and Reconstruction (PRR) is accelerating the construction of permanent housing units (Huntap) for disaster survivors across Aceh, North Sumatra and West Sumatra, with 17,969 units planned and 401 already completed as of 26 February.

Prabowo Concludes Global Diplomacy Tour with Fresh UAE Investment Pledge

President Prabowo Subianto completed his weeks-long international tour in Abu Dhabi, where UAE leader Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan committed to significantly increase investment in Indonesia, particularly in energy, infrastructure and future-oriented sectors. The tour also yielded substantial commercial pledges from the United States valued at $38.

Crematorium Project in Kalideres Halted Pending Environmental Impact Assessment

A funeral home and crematorium development project in Kalideres, West Jakarta, has been temporarily suspended due to the developer's failure to obtain the required Environmental Impact Assessment (Amdal) despite an agreement to do so by 27 January 2026. The West Jakarta city administration has committed to halting construction pending completion of all environmental licensing procedures following resident protests about inadequate community consultation.

Drug Trafficker Ko Erwin, Who Paid Rp 2.8 Billion to Ex-Bima Police Chief, Attempts Escape to Malaysia

Drug trafficker Erwin Iskandar (Ko Erwin), who allegedly paid Rp 2.8 billion to former Bima Police Chief AKBP Didik, was arrested in Tanjungbalai, North Sumatra on 26 February whilst attempting to flee to Malaysia by boat. The National Police Narcotics Investigation Directorate also detained two accomplices who allegedly facilitated Ko Erwin's escape, as the wanted suspect now faces investigation at police headquarters.

Deputy Minister of Immigration and Corrections: WBBM Designation Highest Status Within Integrity Zone

Five Indonesian immigration offices have been awarded the Clean and Responsive Bureaucracy (WBBM) designation by the Ministry of State Apparatus Empowerment and Bureaucratic Reform, the highest status within the Integrity Zone framework.

Civil Servants Must Undergo Rigorous Selection for Reserve Component Training

Indonesia's Ministry of Defence has announced that civil servants (ASN) registering for Reserve Component (Komcad) training must undergo strict selection criteria, including administrative screening, physical and psychological health examinations, and ideological assessment.

The Secret to Preserving Memory: Coffee and Tea Said to Reduce Dementia Risk

A 43-year longitudinal study involving approximately 130,000 participants conducted by Mass General Brigham and Harvard University has found that regular consumption of coffee and tea in moderate amounts correlates with reduced risk of dementia.

162,000 Hajj Pilgrim Visa Documents Processed, Target Completion Early March

Indonesia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has processed 162,000 visa documents for hajj pilgrims, with approximately 40,000 remaining under review, aiming for completion by early March ahead of Eid al-Fitr. A 24-hour visa processing team of 85 personnel faces technical connectivity challenges with Saudi Arabia and has restricted pilgrim quota transfers to maintain stability, though staff report satisfaction with balancing work and religious observance during Ramadan.

Nurturing the Pulse of Philanthropy within the Framework of Constitutional Government

This opinion article examines the proposed centralisation of zakat (Islamic alms) management by the Indonesian government through the proposed Lembaga Pengelola Dana Umat (LPDU), questioning whether such centralisation aligns with Indonesia's constitutional framework as a constitutional state and the guarantee of religious freedom.

The Harmful Impact of 'Revenge Eating' When Breaking the Fast

The Indonesian Ministry of Health has warned against "revenge eating" during Ramadhan, cautioning that excessive consumption of sweet foods, fried items, and sugary beverages can lead to significant health risks. The ministry emphasises the need for balanced nutrition and continuous public education to prevent weight gain, elevated cholesterol, and non-communicable diseases such as diabetes and hypertension.

Cyber Experts Support Polri in Uncovering Fake e-Ticketing Scam Case: Organised Crime

Indonesia's Cyber Crime Directorate (Dittipidsiber) has dismantled an SMS phishing scam impersonating the official e-tilang portal, with cyber security experts warning that such digital crimes represent organised criminal networks operating internationally.

Thai soldier loses leg in landmine blast on Cambodia border

A Thai soldier lost his right leg after stepping on a landmine near the country's disputed border with Cambodia in Surin province on 27 February. The Thai military suggested the landmine was not newly laid, though Thailand and Cambodia have repeatedly accused each other of ceasefire violations and alleged weapons placements along their contested 800km jungle frontier.

Pakistan Launches Aerial Attack, Bombs Afghan Capital Kabul

Pakistan has conducted airstrikes on Kabul and two other Afghan provinces in retaliation for cross-border attacks by Afghan forces, marking a significant escalation in violence between the two neighbours despite a Qatar-mediated ceasefire agreement signed in 2025.

Indonesia Stock Exchange Closely Monitors Five Listed Companies Over Unusual Share Price Movement

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (BEI) is closely monitoring five listed companies due to unusual market activity in their share trading patterns, specifically irregular transaction activity for PT Mahkota Group and unexplained price increases for the other four companies. The Unusual Market Activity announcement does not necessarily indicate regulatory violations but serves as an investor protection measure.

Strengthening Digital Safety, Roblox Establishes Global Parent Council

Roblox has officially launched its inaugural Global Parent Council, comprising 80 parents and guardians from 32 countries, including representatives from Indonesia, to directly involve parents in shaping policies and product development. The council, featuring members with diverse expertise in psychology, education, digital wellbeing and law enforcement, aims to provide crucial global perspectives on user safety and welfare.

Danantara Weighs Purchase of 50 Boeing Jets for Garuda Indonesia

Danantara Indonesia Investment Management Agency is examining financing schemes for purchasing 50 Boeing aircraft for state-owned Garuda Indonesia, with discussions currently at the technical level between Indonesian and American officials. The aircraft procurement is part of a trade agreement between Indonesia and the United States requiring Indonesia to purchase $13.5 billion in commercial aircraft, aviation goods, and services, with an anticipated seven-year delivery timeline from Boeing.

United States Imposes High Tariffs on Indonesian Solar Panels: What's the Reason?

The United States Department of Commerce has imposed temporary countervailing duties on solar cells and panels imported from Indonesia, India, and Laos, citing allegations of unfair government subsidies that harm American domestic producers. Indonesia faces a general subsidy rate of 104.38 percent, with individual companies such as PT Blue Sky Solar facing tariffs as high as 143.3 percent.

Pramono Plans Underground Tunnel to Connect Four Hotels in HI to MRT

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has unveiled plans to build an underground pedestrian access corridor connecting four major hotels—Grand Hyatt, Pullman, Mandarin Oriental, and Kempinski—in the Hotel Indonesia roundabout area directly to the Jakarta MRT system.

Oil Prices Fall as Markets Monitor Iran-US Negotiations

Global crude oil prices declined slightly on Friday morning as markets await developments in ongoing Iran-US negotiations that could affect global energy supply. The reduction in geopolitical risk premiums, stemming from prospects of continued diplomatic dialogue, has limited upward pressure on oil prices, with markets expecting relatively flat trading in the $60-70 per barrel range for WTI and around $70 per barrel for Brent until clearer signals emerge in early March.

The Fate of 280 Million Indonesians' Data at the Mercy of Trade Agreements

Indonesia's trade agreement with the United States signed on 19 February 2026 contains clauses that undermine the nation's newly established digital data protection framework by prohibiting mandatory local data storage requirements and effectively pre-determining the adequacy assessment of US data protection standards.

Assets of Kerry, Son of Fugitive Riza Chalid, Seized by State

A judicial panel has ordered the seizure of assets belonging to Kerry Muhammad Kerry Adrianto Riza, son of fugitive Mohamad Riza Chalid, following his conviction to 15 years imprisonment in a corruption case. Kerry was found to have enriched himself by Rp2.9 trillion whilst arranging the leasing of three vessels and fuel terminal facilities, causing state losses of Rp285.18 trillion. The assets have been declared confiscated to the state by the Jakarta Corruption Court.

Tensions Escalate as Cuba Opens Fire on US Speedboat, Four Dead

Cuban border authorities fired upon and intercepted a Florida-registered speedboat that entered Cuban territorial waters near Cayo Falcones on 25 February, resulting in four deaths and six injuries.

Confused by 15-Year Sentence, Kerry Adrianto: Many Trial Facts Not Considered in Court Ruling

Kerry Adrianto, a defendant in a corruption case involving crude oil and refinery product management at PT Pertamina, has been sentenced to 15 years' imprisonment and ordered to pay replacement funds of Rp2.9 trillion. He claims the court's decision overlooked many trial facts and intends to appeal, expressing hope for justice in a higher court.

LPEM Report: Capital Outflows from Indonesia Reach Rp17.8 Trillion Due to MSCI

Indonesia experienced capital outflows totalling US$1.38 billion (approximately Rp17.8 trillion) following MSCI and Moody's announcements on 27 January 2026, with MSCI raising concerns about transparency in share ownership structures and Moody's downgrading Indonesia's economic outlook from stable to negative.

Digital Shopping to Dominate Ramadan 2026 in Indonesia

Visa's latest projections forecast that Indonesia's Ramadan 2026 will experience massive digital transformation, with digital payment adoption becoming the primary driver of consumer spending growth. About 62 per cent of Indonesian consumers now shop online two to three times monthly, with peak transactions expected in the third week of Ramadan, particularly in travel bookings and holiday preparations.

Drug Trafficker Koh Erwin Arrested Attempting to Flee to Malaysia from North Sumatra Port

The Indonesian National Police's Criminal Investigation Directorate arrested drug trafficker Erwin Iskandar (alias Koh Erwin) on 26 February whilst attempting to escape to Malaysia via Tanjung Balai Port in North Sumatra. Koh Erwin, allegedly the supplier of methamphetamine to former Bima Police Chief AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro, was transferred to Jakarta for further interrogation and faces charges under Indonesia's narcotics legislation.

Drug Dealer Ko Erwin Linked to Former Bima City Police Chief Arrested in North Sumatra

Drug dealer Erwin Iskandar, known as Ko Erwin, has been arrested by Indonesia's Criminal Investigation Directorate (Bareskrim Polri) in Tanjung Balai, North Sumatra, whilst attempting to flee to Malaysia. Ko Erwin is linked to a major drug trafficking case involving former Bima City Police Chief AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro and former anti-narcotics officer AKP Malaungi, to whom Ko Erwin allegedly transferred Rp 1 billion to enable methamphetamine distribution.

Ministry of Creative Economy Expands UMKM Market Access Through Lhokseumawe Ramadan Bazaar

The Indonesian Ministry of Creative Economy, in partnership with the Lhokseumawe City Government, is organising a 2026 Ramadan Bazaar to strengthen regional creative economy and expand market access for local small and medium-sized enterprises (UMKM). The event, themed "Blessed Ramadan, Creative Economy Growth," aims to promote local brands from Lhokseumawe to national and global markets whilst strengthening community economic resilience through sustained initiatives beyond the seasonal bazaar.

Perum Jasa Tirta II Launches Ramadan Safari 1447 H to Strengthen Internal Consolidation and Social Responsibility

Perum Jasa Tirta II, Indonesia's state-owned water management company, is conducting a series of Ramadan Safari activities across four operational regions to strengthen internal coordination and demonstrate corporate social responsibility. The Chief Executive Director emphasised that the initiative serves as a strategic mechanism to align all work units and ensure optimal, sustainable, and accountable water resource management.

Association: 3.9 million small grocery shops remain as modern retail erodes the market

The Indonesian Street Vendors Association (APKLI) reports that the number of traditional small grocery shops (warung kelontong) has plummeted from 6.1 million in 2007 to approximately 3.9 million by the end of 2025, with over 2.2 million closures attributed to rapid modern retail expansion and lenient licensing policies. During an audience with the Cooperatives Minister, APKLI proposed stricter enforcement of retail zoning regulations and implementation of Government Regulation No.

Ancient Mosque Discovered in Israel, Scholar Reveals Islamic Respect Attitude

Archaeologists have discovered the remains of an ancient mosque south of the Sea of Galilee in Tiberias, Israel, estimated to have been constructed around 670 CE, shortly after the Prophet Muhammad's death.

DKI Jakarta provincial government's cattle import policy from Australia deemed inappropriate

A member of the Jakarta provincial legislature has criticised the DKI Jakarta government's decision to import 3,100 head of cattle from Australia, arguing it violates the country's food sovereignty principles and contravenes Law No. 18 of 2012, which requires provincial food reserves to be sourced domestically.

Kaesang Visits Fathul Ma'ani Islamic Boarding School, Conducts Quiz with Students

Kaesang Pangarep, chairman of the Indonesia Solidarity Party (PSI), visited Fathul Ma'ani Islamic boarding school in Pandeglang Regency, Banten, as part of his Ramadan Safari outreach programme. During the visit, Kaesang engaged with students through Ramadan-themed quizzes and games, accompanied by senior party officials. The initiative reflects PSI's broader Ramadan campaign across Indonesia to strengthen ties with Islamic boarding schools and community leaders.

Taxation and the Trust of Scholarships

The controversy surrounding Indonesian scholarship recipients from the Education Fund Management Agency (LPDP) reflects a tension between formal legal status and public moral expectations. Using Eugen Ehrlich's living law theory and Roscoe Pound's sociological jurisprudence, the article argues that effective regulation must balance state fiscal interests, public expectations for reciprocal contribution, and individual freedom, whilst maintaining transparency and consistent enforcement.

Hip Modern Youth Should Be Able to Speak Balinese, Says Culture Official

Bali's Culture Office Head IB Alit Suryana has emphasised the critical importance of preserving the Balinese language and script as the cultural identity of the Balinese people, urging younger generations to use the language daily at home, school, and work.

BEM UI to Demonstrate at Polri Headquarters, Demand Structural Police Reforms Following Tual Incident

The Student Executive Board of the University of Indonesia (BEM UI) has announced plans to stage a demonstration at Indonesian National Police (Polri) headquarters in Jakarta on 27 February 2026 in response to the death of AT, a student in Tual, Maluku, who was beaten by Mobile Brigade member Bripda Mesias Siahaya. The protest will demand maximum criminal penalties for the officer involved and comprehensive structural, cultural, and instrumental police reforms.

Drug Trafficker Koko Erwin, Who Allegedly Bribed Former Bima Police Chief, Arrested

Indonesian police have arrested Erwin alias Koko Erwin, a suspected drug trafficker and fugitive wanted for allegedly bribing former Bima City Police Chief AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro with Rp1 billion. Erwin was apprehended in Tanjung Balai, North Sumatra on 26 February whilst attempting to flee to Malaysia, with two accomplices also detained for assisting his escape.

Ko Erwin, Drug Trafficking Fugitive and Former Bima Police Chief, Arrested Whilst Attempting to Flee to Malaysia

Police have arrested Erwin Iskandar (Ko Erwin), a fugitive drug trafficker, whilst he was aboard a vessel allegedly preparing to flee to Malaysia. Erwin is accused of transferring 2.8 billion rupiah to former Bima City Police Chief AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro. Two additional suspects involved in facilitating his escape have also been apprehended in Riau and Tanjungbalai.

The Masterpieces of Two Hagia Sofias in Istanbul and Bursa

The article explores the Hagia Sofia structures in Turkey, particularly comparing the grand Hagia Sofia in Istanbul, which has stood for 1,500 years, with the historically rich Hagia Sofia in Iznik in Bursa Province. The name "Hagia Sofia" means "Holy Wisdom" in Greek and carries significant theological meaning in early Christianity, with at least four buildings sharing this name across Turkey including locations in Istanbul, Iznik, and Edessa.

Commission XI of Parliament Urges Public to Show Compassion for Disaster-Affected Residents

Mukhamad Misbakhun, Chairman of Commission XI of the House of Representatives, has appealed to the public to show sensitivity towards disaster-affected residents during Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr celebrations, particularly those still housed in evacuation centres.

Bandung City Regional Parliament Completes Social Welfare Implementation Regulation Draft

The Bandung City Regional Parliament's Special Committee 12 has completed the substantive discussion on a draft regional regulation (Raperda) concerning the implementation of social welfare, which now awaits consultation with relevant ministries and evaluation by the Ministry of Law and Human Rights.

IHGMA West Java Holds Investment Analysis Workshop for Hotel General Managers in Bandung

The West Java chapter of the Indonesian Hotel General Manager Association (IHGMA) organised an exclusive strategic workshop on investment analysis combined with an Iftar gathering at Ibis Bandung Pasteur, featuring Dr. Andre Hernowo as keynote speaker. The workshop aimed to equip general managers and hotel leaders with comprehensive knowledge on project feasibility evaluation, risk analysis, ROI calculation, and strategic decision-making for business expansion.

Do Not Panic If Your ATM Card Is Swallowed: Here's How to Handle It

ATM machines can occasionally swallow customer bank cards, resulting from card defects, technical malfunctions, or user error. The article provides guidance for customers on managing this situation, including documenting the machine details, contacting their bank to block the card, verifying transactions, and obtaining a replacement card.

Minister of Religion Urges Students to Strengthen Academic Traditions and Religious Literacy

Indonesia's Minister of Religion, Nasaruddin Umar, has called on young Muslims, particularly university students and student activists, to strengthen academic traditions and religious literacy amid rapid digital development.

Man Convicted for Premeditated Murder in Tanah Abang Railway Case

A Jakarta court has sentenced Mika Febrianto to 12 years imprisonment for the premeditated murder of M Raihan, whose body was found near railway tracks in Tanah Abang whilst screaming for help after being stabbed. The incident stemmed from escalating tensions between the defendant, a tramadol seller, and the victim over a series of confrontations that culminated in the fatal stabbing on 14 July 2025.

PDIP Imposes Strict Ban on Party Cadres Profiting from Free Nutritious Meal Programme

The Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) has issued a directive prohibiting its cadres from exploiting the free nutritious meal (MBG) programme for financial gain or material benefits. The party central board warned that any violations would be treated as disciplinary breaches and subject to organisational sanctions, whilst PDIP politician Guntur Romli clarified that the programme is government welfare policy that must not be commercialised.

South Sumatra Regional Police and Ministry of Immigration and Corrections Strengthen Synergy to Prevent Drug Trafficking from Prisons

The South Sumatra Regional Police and the Ministry of Immigration and Corrections have strengthened their strategic collaboration to prevent security threats and drug trafficking from correctional facilities. With approximately 15,000 inmates in South Sumatra—more than half convicted of drug-related offences—the authorities are implementing enhanced coordination, internal oversight, and the relocation of inmates involved in recent prison disturbances to mitigate further escalation.

Truck Trailer Collides with Busway Separator in West Jakarta, Causing Traffic Congestion

A three-axle truck collided with a Transjakarta busway separator on Jalan S Parman in West Jakarta on 27 February 2026, causing significant traffic congestion extending to Grogol Flyover. Recovery operations began at 06:30 WIB and the truck was successfully extracted by 08:00 WIB, with normal traffic flow restored by 08:25 WIB.

Ministry of Health Monitors Measles Dynamics Nationally and Globally

The Indonesian Ministry of Health is heightening vigilance over measles dynamics amid ongoing outbreaks across multiple regions. National data shows 63,769 suspected measles cases in 2025 with 11,094 laboratory-confirmed cases and 69 deaths, whilst 2026 figures through week seven indicate 8,224 suspected cases with 572 confirmations and 4 deaths across 21 suspected and 13 confirmed outbreaks in 17 districts across 11 provinces.

Use Cryptocurrency Technology to Enhance Efficiency of Traditional Asset Trading

Global cryptocurrency exchange OKX has officially launched Equity Perpetual Contracts (Equity Perps), a new derivative instrument enabling users to trade stocks of major global companies 24 hours a day without interruption, marking a significant integration of crypto assets with traditional financial markets. The platform is rolling out 17 perpetual stock contracts including Tesla, Amazon, and Nvidia, along with major ETF indices like QQQ and SPY, with a phased launch beginning 25 February 2026.

Head of National Nutrition Agency Conveys Prabowo's Message: No Corruption in Free Nutritious Meals Programme

Dadan Hindayana, Head of Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN), has relayed President Prabowo Subianto's directive to maintain integrity and prevent corruption in the implementation of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. Hindayana emphasised that these principles must be internalised across all BGN staff from central to regional levels, and warned against misusing authority for short-term personal gain.

Jayawijaya Regent meets Trade Minister to strengthen regional economy

The regent of Jayawijaya district in Papua Tengah met with Indonesia's Trade Minister Budi Santoso to discuss plans for market development and strengthening of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the region.

UI Student Executive Board to Protest at National Police Headquarters This Afternoon, Highlighting Brimob Abuse Case in Tual

The University of Indonesia's Student Executive Board (BEM UI) is planning to hold a demonstration outside the National Police Headquarters in South Jakarta on Friday, 27 February 2026, at 2 p.m. to protest alleged police brutality and abuse of civilians. The protest is specifically focused on highlighting cases of police violence against students, with BEM UI leadership arguing that law enforcement institutions meant to protect citizens have instead become instruments of oppression.

Iran and United States drawing closer to agreement following Geneva negotiations

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that Tehran and Washington are "drawing closer to an agreement" on several issues following the third round of indirect nuclear negotiations in Geneva, with both sides demonstrating increased seriousness. Technical teams have been tasked with conducting further discussions and reviews in Vienna starting Monday, with a new round of negotiations to commence within a week.

Police Officer Initiates Emergency Bridge in East Nusa Tenggara to Keep Students from Fording River

Inspector Arsilinus Lentar, head of Kuwus Police Sector, has spearheaded the construction of an emergency bamboo bridge in Lesem Village, West Manggarai District, East Nusa Tenggara, to enable schoolchildren to safely cross a treacherous 20-metre river without risking their lives. The initiative, built through community cooperation and military assistance, has already helped 11 primary and 10 secondary school students avoid dangerous river crossings during monsoon season.

PwC Survey: 49 Per Cent of Indonesian Workers Experience Financial Pressure

A PricewaterhouseCoopers Global Workforce Hopes & Fears Survey 2025 reveals that 49 per cent of Indonesian workers experience financial pressure, slightly below the global average of 55 per cent. Despite salary increases for 53 per cent of Indonesian workers over the past year, only 10 per cent received promotions, highlighting a gap between short-term income gains and long-term career mobility.

Prabowo returns to Indonesia following visits to the United States, Jordan, and the UAE

President Prabowo Subianto has returned to Indonesia after completing a series of high-level diplomatic visits to the United States, Jordan, and the United Arab Emirates.

Kerry Responds After 15-Year Prison Sentence: I Will Continue to Pursue Justice

Muhamad Kerry Adrianto Riza, Beneficial Owner of PT Orbit Terminal Merak and PT Jenggala Maritim Nusantara, has been sentenced to 15 years imprisonment in a corruption case involving crude oil and refinery product management at PT Pertamina. Kerry has stated he will pursue an appeal, claiming many trial facts were overlooked in the court's consideration, whilst two co-defendants received 13-year sentences.

TNI Retirees Oppose Gaza Deployment: Forum Questions Constitutionality of 8,000-Troop Plan

A forum of retired Indonesian military officers has publicly challenged President Prabowo's proposed deployment of 8,000 troops to Gaza, arguing it violates constitutional principles by bypassing UN mandate requirements and parliamentary oversight.

Waste-to-Energy Project Set to Proceed Soon, Latest Update

Indonesia's Daya Anagata Nusantara Investment Management Body (BPI Danantara) is preparing to announce the winners of the first phase tender for Waste-to-Energy (WTE) projects in Denpasar, Bali and Bekasi in the coming weeks, with formal partnership agreements expected to be signed in March 2026.

PDIP Explains Circular Banning Cadres from Exploiting Free Nutritious Meal Programme

Indonesia's Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) has issued a circular banning party cadres at all structural, legislative, and executive levels from exploiting the free nutritious meal (MBG) programme. The directive, dated 24 February 2026, aims to prevent commercialisation of the government welfare initiative and was prompted by allegations that all political parties were profiting from the scheme.

Commission IX Emphasises Importance of Nutrition Fulfilment and Family Strengthening

Indah Kurniawati, a member of Commission IX of Indonesia's House of Representatives, has emphasised the critical importance of nutrition provision and family strengthening whilst promoting the Free Nutritious Meal Programme (MBG) in East Java. She stressed that whilst the programme currently targets schoolchildren, it should eventually extend to other population groups including the elderly, with rigorous quality standards maintained for both food and service delivery.

PT Pelindo Sinergi Lokaseva Strengthens Service Standards Through Integrated Management System Digitalisation

PT Pelindo Sinergi Lokaseva has implemented an Integrated Management System (IMS) on a digital platform to strengthen corporate governance standards as part of its company transformation. The initiative, which includes staff training conducted in January 2026, aims to improve operational efficiency, service quality, and accountability whilst aligning with national governance reform objectives.

Son of Fugitive Riza Chalid Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison, Appeals Conviction

Muhammad Kerry Adrianto Riza (MKAR), son of fugitive M. Riza Chalid, has been convicted and sentenced to 15 years in prison by the Jakarta Corruption Court for corruption involving crude oil and refinery product management at PT Pertamina. Kerry has announced he will appeal the conviction, claiming the court disregarded significant trial evidence that would prove his innocence.

Ministry of Hajj: Processing of Pilgrims' Visas Targeted to be Complete by March

Indonesia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah (Kemenhaj) is targeting completion of visa processing for regular hajj pilgrims by early March 2026, with approximately 162,000 pilgrims already processed and 40,000 remaining. An 85-person visa processing team is working 24 hours daily to meet the deadline, facing technical connectivity challenges with Saudi Arabia and service packaging synchronisation, whilst managing requests from pilgrims for quota transfers.

Global Oil Prices Fall Slightly as Markets Monitor US-Iran Nuclear Negotiations

Global crude oil prices declined marginally on 26 February 2026 amid volatile trading, with Brent crude falling 0.14 per cent to $70.75 per barrel and US WTI dropping 0.32 per cent to $65.21 per barrel. Markets are closely monitoring US-Iran negotiations over Tehran's nuclear programme, with prices initially spiking over $1 per barrel after talks hit an impasse, before reversing as both nations agreed to extend discussions into the following week.

Gig Economy Becomes New Social Safety Net as Grab Reveals Partners' Role Amidst Economic Uncertainty

Grab Indonesia's CEO Neneng Goenadi has positioned the gig economy platform model as a modern social safety net, with 3.7 million registered partners providing flexible income opportunities across Indonesia.

Indonesia faces AI-driven online fraud surge with Rp9.1 trillion in losses, Mafindo warns

Indonesia's anti-scam body Mafindo has warned of a surge in AI-powered online fraud, citing Rp9.1 trillion in documented losses and ranking second-to-last globally on fraud risk metrics. The organisation has called for six strategic policy priorities, including unified reporting systems, AI-based early warning mechanisms, and enhanced digital literacy programmes to protect consumers and restore public confidence in the country's digital economy.

Malaysia's tuberculosis cases surge; citizens urged to exercise caution at Ramadan markets

Malaysia's Ministry of Health has reported a significant rise in tuberculosis cases, with 3,161 cases recorded by the sixth epidemiological week of 2026, including 596 new infections. Whilst emphasising that tuberculosis does not spread as rapidly as influenza or COVID-19, authorities have urged public vigilance during Ramadan, when increased social activities and gatherings in crowded, poorly ventilated spaces heighten transmission risks.

Batam Marine Aquaculture Centre targets one-tonne premium lobster harvest by end of 2026

The Batam Marine Aquaculture Center (BPBL) is accelerating a high-tech lobster cultivation program with a target of harvesting at least one tonne of premium lobsters by the end of 2026, positioning Indonesia's Riau Islands as a regional export hub. The facility operates an integrated cultivation model focusing on sustainability and export-grade standards, cultivating three lobster species for markets including Singapore and South Korea, with potential revenues reaching IDR 500 million.

Indonesia's Nickel Prospects Following New Trade Agreement

Indonesia secured a major trade agreement with the United States in February 2026, negotiating a general tariff rate of 19 percent and zero tariffs on key products in exchange for commitments worth $33 billion USD, with nickel as a central pillar of the bilateral relationship.

Batam District Court Grapples with Surge in Child Sexual Abuse Cases

Batam District Court is experiencing a sharp rise in child sexual abuse cases, with over 80 per cent of victims being minors, predominantly abused by family members and close relatives. The surge exposes significant gaps in family and community protection systems, contrasting starkly with Batam's public branding as a "Child-Friendly City" and placing considerable strain on the judicial system.

Prabowo Returns Home After Visits to US, UK, Jordan and UAE

President Prabowo Subianto has returned to Indonesia on 27 February 2026 after a week-long working visit to the United States, United Kingdom, Jordan, and United Arab Emirates. During the tour, Prabowo secured trade and investment commitments totalling US$38.4 billion from the US, facilitated a semiconductor training partnership involving 15,000 Indonesian engineers with ARM Limited, and engaged in Middle East diplomacy regarding Gaza and Palestinian peace efforts.

Neanderthal Men More Frequently Mated with Modern Human Women

A new study published in Science reveals that when Neanderthals and modern humans interbred, the most common pairings were Neanderthal males with modern human females. This finding helps explain the long-standing mystery of "Neanderthal deserts"—regions in the modern human genome notably lacking Neanderthal DNA, particularly on the X chromosome.

The Price of a Passport: LPDP Scandal Exposes Indonesia's Accountability Crisis in State-Funded Scholarships

An LPDP scholarship alumna's celebration of her child's British passport in February 2026 sparked a nationwide controversy over taxpayer accountability, national loyalty, and brain drain, with the government blacklisting both her and her husband whilst demanding a refund of approximately IDR 6 billion for incomplete service obligations.

Unlicensed Fourthwall Padel Court in Cilandak Faces Demolition

An unlicensed padel court in Cilandak, South Jakarta, faces demolition after authorities confirmed it lacks the required building permits and official operating licences. Provincial and municipal officials have announced strict enforcement action, including suspension of operations and revocation of business permits for facilities operating without proper approval.

Avian Records Revenue of IDR 8.1 Trillion, Strengthens Decorative Paint Market Dominance

PT Avia Avian Tbk, Indonesia's leading decorative paint manufacturer, reported solid financial performance for 2025 with total revenue of IDR 8.1 trillion, an increase of 8.7 per cent year-on-year. The company achieved net profit of IDR 1.7 trillion with a net profit margin of 21.5 per cent, whilst expanding its distribution network to 129 distribution centres and activating over 60,000 retail stores, reinforcing its market leadership position.

Road Accidents and Conflicts Can Stem from Inadequate Driver Understanding

Rising incidents of road accidents and conflicts among motorists are increasingly linked to drivers' lack of comprehensive understanding beyond mere technical skills, according to Jakarta Defensive Driving Consulting founder Jusri Pulubuhu. He emphasises that safe driving requires a combination of four essential aspects: skill, vigilance, discipline, and empathy towards other road users.

Koh Erwin Resists Arrest and Nearly Escapes to Malaysia

A major methamphetamine trafficker named Erwin, alias Koko Erwin, who allegedly supplied money and drugs to a former police chief, was apprehended in Tanjung Balai, North Sumatra whilst attempting to flee to Malaysia on Thursday. The suspect resisted arrest and two accomplices were also detained for allegedly assisting his escape attempt, with authorities confirming Koh Erwin is a high-level drug kingpin operating in West Nusa Tenggara (NTB).

Purbaya Supports Subsidised Mortgage Scheme with 30-Year Tenor to Ease Instalments

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has endorsed extending mortgage tenors to 30 years for subsidised housing to broaden financing access and reduce monthly payment burdens for lower and middle-income households.

Rupiah Opens Weaker by 0.14 Per Cent at Rp 16,782 Per US Dollar

The rupiah depreciated 23 points or 0.14 per cent to Rp 16,782 per US dollar on Friday trading as stronger-than-expected US manufacturing and employment data strengthened the dollar globally. Geopolitical uncertainty, particularly regarding US-Iran negotiations and Middle East stability, has added risk to global markets, with the rupiah expected to trade in the range of Rp 16,700 to Rp 16,800 per dollar.

Patra Jasa Launches Patra Ramadan 1447 H Promotional Offers Across All Hotel Units

PT Patra Jasa, a subsidiary of PT Pertamina, is offering special Ramadan promotions across its nine hotel properties throughout Indonesia, featuring curated iftar dining experiences and discounted room rates. The "Patra Ramadan" programme combines culinary offerings, comfortable service, and community values, with customised packages available for group and corporate reservations.

DSSA partners with Chinese firm to implement AI in Education and Healthcare

PT Dian Swastatika Sentosa (DSSA) and Chinese artificial intelligence company iFlytek have established a strategic partnership to develop and deploy localised AI solutions for Indonesia's education and healthcare sectors.

Parliament Commission VI to Summon Agrinas over Import of 105,000 Pickup Trucks from India

Commission VI of the Indonesian House of Representatives plans to summon PT Agrinas Pangan Nusantara for clarification regarding the procurement of 105,000 pickup trucks from India, valued at Rp24.66 trillion, for operations under the Village Red-White Cooperative programme.

East Java Provincial Government increases Mojolagres SPAM capacity to 300 litres per second

The East Java Provincial Government has increased the production capacity of the Mojolagres Regional Water Supply System (SPAM) from 200 to 300 litres per second, expanding clean water services to approximately 100,000 residents across Mojokerto, Lamongan, and Gresik regencies. Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa inaugurated the additional 100-litre-per-second capacity increase in 2025 as a collaborative effort between central and regional governments since 2012.

Parliamentary Member: Narrative Separating Free Nutritious Meals from Education is Flawed

A member of the House of Representatives' Commission II, Azis Subekti, has rejected the narrative that positions Indonesia's free nutritious meals programme (Makan Bergizi Gratis) in opposition to education spending, arguing that the two are interconnected rather than competing priorities.

South Jakarta Police Establish 10 Observation Posts to Prevent Unrest During Ramadan

South Jakarta Metro Police have established 10 observation posts across the district's subdistricts to prevent street fights, illegal drag racing, and other disturbances during Ramadan. The operation will deploy 150 personnel and involve community partners including ride-hailing services, civil organisations and local security groups to maintain order during the holy month.

Trump's Halal Ambitions

A column examines the halal certification exemptions in the proposed US-Indonesia Reciprocal Trade Agreement (ATR), arguing that clauses exempting American products from Indonesian halal labelling and certification requirements undermine Indonesia's regulatory sovereignty and ability to set global halal standards.

Five New Facts on Trump's Volatile Tariffs: Rising Again by 15-50%, Indonesian Products Hit with 104%

The Trump administration is planning to raise tariffs from the current 10% level to 15-50% for various countries, with Indonesia facing particularly high duties on certain products. The US Trade Representative has indicated tariff increases will be tailored to each nation's trade profile and will follow Section 301 investigations targeting industrial overcapacity and fishing subsidies.

Drug Trafficker Erwin Arrested at Soekarno-Hatta Airport After Transferring Rp 2.8 Billion to Former Police Chief

Drug trafficker Erwin Iskandar, alias Ko Erwin, has been arrested at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport after being apprehended in Tanjungbalai, North Sumatra, whilst allegedly attempting to flee to Malaysia. Ko Erwin is accused of transferring Rp 2.8 billion to former Bima Police Chief AKBP Didik and is suspected of operating a methamphetamine trafficking ring across the Nusa Tenggara Barat region.

Saudi Arabia Restricts Poultry Imports; Indonesia Strengthens Animal Health Standards

Saudi Arabia's Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) has imposed restrictions on poultry and egg imports from several countries, including Indonesia, a sanitary measure that Indonesia's Ministry of Agriculture views as an opportunity to strengthen its animal health systems and credentials.

Kerry, Son of Riza Chalid, to Appeal After 15-Year Prison Sentence

Muhamad Kerry Adrianto Riza, beneficial owner of PT Orbit Terminal Merak and PT Jenggala Maritim Nusantara, has vowed to appeal his 15-year prison sentence handed down by the Corruption Court in Jakarta for crude oil and refinery product mismanagement at PT Pertamina. Kerry claims the judges failed to consider all trial evidence and disputed the court's order to seize his fuel terminal, which remains in use by Pertamina.

Deputy Minister of Industry: Indonesia-US Trade Agreement Represents Major Industrialisation Leap

Deputy Minister of Industry Faisol Riza has characterised the reciprocal trade agreement between Indonesia and the United States as a major breakthrough for national industrialisation, particularly through accelerating mineral downstream processing including silica sand for semiconductor production.

Drug Supplier to Former Bima Police Chief Arrested in Tanjung Balai

Erwin Iskandar, a major drug trafficker accused of supplying methamphetamine to former Bima City Police Chief AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro and former narcotics chief AKP Malaungi, has been arrested in Tanjung Balai, North Sumatra whilst attempting to flee to Malaysia. The arrest, conducted jointly by the Indonesian National Police's Criminal Investigation Directorate and North Sumatra Regional Police, also netted two associates involved in coordinating his escape.

Sentenced to 15 Years, Kerry Riza Pledges Continued Pursuit of Justice

Muhammad Kerry Adrianto Riza, beneficial owner of PT Orbit Terminal Merak, has been sentenced to 15 years imprisonment and fined Rp 1 billion with a five-year alternative prison term, plus ordered to pay Rp 2.9 trillion in restitution in a Tipikor Jakarta court ruling on crude oil and refinery product management corruption involving PT Pertamina.

Drug Trafficker Erwin Resists During Arrest

Police arrested suspected major drug trafficker Erwin (alias Koko Erwin) in Tanjung Balai, North Sumatra on Thursday whilst attempting to flee to Malaysia by boat. Erwin, allegedly a major methamphetamine supplier in West Nusa Tenggara, was accused of providing money and drugs to a former police chief, AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro. Two additional suspects were also apprehended during the operation.

Police Confirm Arrest of Suspected Drug Trafficker Koko Erwin

Indonesian National Police's Narcotic Crime Directorate (Dittipidnarkoba) has confirmed the arrest of Erwin alias Koko Erwin, a wanted drug trafficker suspected of offering a 1 billion rupiah bribe to former Bima City Police Chief AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro. Two additional suspects were also apprehended for allegedly assisting Erwin's escape to Malaysia.

UAE president commits to increasing investment in Indonesia

The President of the United Arab Emirates has pledged to increase investment in Indonesia during a bilateral meeting with President Prabowo Subianto in Abu Dhabi, with discussions focusing on enhanced investment cooperation in energy, infrastructure, and economic development sectors.

Ibas Inspects Nutritional Fulfilment Service Unit in Ngawi, Ensures Optimal Nutrition During Ramadan

Deputy Speaker of the Indonesian People's Consultative Assembly Edhie Baskoro Yudhoyono (Ibas) conducted an inspection of the Kawu Nutritional Fulfilment Service Unit (SPPG) in Ngawi, East Java, to ensure the nutrition programme operates optimally and maintains quality standards during Ramadan.

Student at SMAN Belu Thrown by Teacher; Principal Pushes for Family Settlement

A biology teacher at SMA Negeri 1 Atambua in Belu Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, allegedly assaulted a 16-year-old student by pulling her hair, striking her with a water bottle, and throwing her against a chair, rendering her unconscious. The school principal is pushing for a family settlement rather than formal punishment, whilst consulting with the regional education authorities regarding disciplinary measures against the teacher.

Tok, Riva Siahaan and Kerry Adrianto Convicted by Judge in Guilty Verdict

A court panel has delivered guilty verdicts to nine defendants in the first batch of a major corruption case involving crude oil management and refinery products at PT Pertamina. Kerry Adrianto Riza, the beneficial owner of PT Orbit Terminal Merak and PT Jenggala Maritim Nusantara, received the heaviest sentence of 15 years imprisonment and a Rp 1 billion fine for illegal terminal leasing that caused state losses of Rp 2.9 trillion.

Becoming a Protector, Not an Outlet: The Key to Parents Managing Emotions for Child Development

A child psychologist from the University of Indonesia emphasises that parents must effectively manage their own emotions to fulfil their protective and caregiving roles, as uncontrolled emotional outbursts can harm child development. The expert recommends that parents shift their focus from venting frustration to calming themselves through various methods such as prayer, exercise, or seeking support from trusted individuals.

DOKU Partners with Ant International to Expand UMKM Access to Global Markets

DOKU and Ant International have established a strategic partnership to enable Indonesian micro, small and medium enterprises (UMKMs) to access global markets through integrated cross-border payment technology and AI-driven solutions. The collaboration, formalised in 2024 and strengthened through 2025, aims to accelerate digital payment innovation and inclusive growth in Indonesia's digital economy.

Laboratory Emitter Plans Large Private Placement

PT Diagnos Laboratorium Utama Tbk (DGNS), a subsidiary of PT Bundamedik Tbk, plans to conduct a private placement to raise capital by issuing up to 125 million new shares, representing a maximum of 10 per cent of its existing issued and paid-up capital. The company aims to strengthen its capital structure to support business growth, with the proposal to be presented at an extraordinary shareholders' meeting scheduled for 6 April 2026.

End of Ko Erwin's Escape! Narcotics Dealer Who Gave Rp1 Billion Bribe to AKBP Didik Arrested by Bareskrim

Police have arrested Erwin Iskandar, alias Ko Erwin, a narcotics dealer and fugitive who allegedly provided a Rp1 billion bribe to AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro, the former police chief of Bima City. The arrest was carried out by a joint team from Bareskrim Polri's Narcotics Crime Directorate. Further details regarding the case and Erwin's role in the narcotics network are expected to be disclosed during a press conference.

Emotional Moment: Mother of Seafarer Fandi Ramadhan Prostrates Before House Commission III Chief, Pleads for Justice for Her Son

The mother of seafarer Fandi Ramadhan, who faces a death sentence in a drug trafficking case, emotionally prostrated herself before the head of the House of Representatives Commission III at a parliamentary hearing on 26 February 2026. Commission III chief Habiburokhman acknowledged the case and demanded that the prosecution be reprimanded for allegations that the DPR and public are intervening in the death penalty case involving the Sea Dragon Terawa vessel and 2 tonnes of methamphetamine.

Under a Tent, Students of Bekasi Special Needs School Learn Independence Through Selling Iftar Snacks

Students at SLB Kembar Karya Pembangunan III in Bekasi are operating a takjil (iftar) food stall as a pilot programme during Ramadan to develop self-reliance and entrepreneurial skills. The school head, Vivi Sukmawati, reports that students are involved in all stages from sourcing ingredients to food preparation and sales, with plans to extend the initiative for the full month given strong student enthusiasm.

Prevent duplicate registrations, East Jakarta city government tightens free mudik verification

East Jakarta's transportation authority has implemented strict verification procedures for the 2026 Free Mudik programme to prevent duplicate registrations and ensure quotas reach legitimate Jakarta residents. Participants must attend in-person verification with original identification and family card documents, with failed attendance resulting in automatic withdrawal. The measure aims to ensure fair quota distribution and smooth, orderly implementation of the homecoming programme.

Britain Ready to Ban Russian Oil Shipping Services Without US Support

Britain is prepared to join the European Union in imposing a ban on Russian oil shipping services via maritime routes independently of United States support, according to British Trade Minister Chris Bryant. However, the EU has indicated it is still seeking unified backing from all G7 member states before implementing such maritime service restrictions on Russian crude oil transportation unilaterally.

Antam Gold Price Rises Slightly on Friday to Rp3,045,000 per Gram

PT Antam's gold prices increased marginally on Friday, 27 February 2026, rising by Rp6,000 to reach Rp3,045,000 per gram, whilst buyback prices rose to Rp2,824,000 per gram. The article details current pricing across all gold bar denominations and outlines applicable taxation regulations for both purchases and resales of Antam gold products.

Arrest of Drug Kingpin Ko Erwin Following Police Capture

Drug trafficking kingpin Erwin Iskandar, alias Ko Erwin, has been apprehended by Indonesia's Criminal Investigation Police (Bareskrim) in Tanjung Balai, North Sumatra on 26 February 2026, ending a week-long manhunt. Ko Erwin was arrested whilst attempting to flee to Malaysia and was subsequently transported to Jakarta under tight police security.

Rupiah Weakens Following Government's Swift Response to US Supreme Court's Cancellation of Trump Tariffs

The Indonesian rupiah weakened to Rp 16,780 per US dollar on 27 February 2026 following the US Supreme Court's decision to cancel portions of Trump's tariff policies, which the Indonesian Government rapidly addressed. President Prabowo Subianto instructed his team to assess potential risks from the ruling, particularly regarding the Indonesia-US trade agreement implementation.

RMKE Raises IDR 600 Billion Through Bond Issuance to Accelerate Business Expansion

PT RMK Energy Tbk (RMKE) has received regulatory approval from the Financial Services Authority (OJK) to issue IDR 600 billion in bonds across two series to fund business expansion. The bond issuance, featuring a single-A rating from Pefindo, comprises a 5-year series with a 7.75% coupon and a 7-year series with an 8.25% coupon.

IHSG poised to weaken amid profit-taking ahead of weekend

Indonesia's composite stock index (IHSG) opened lower on Friday as market participants engaged in profit-taking ahead of the weekend, with weakness driven by fiscal concerns, S&P Global Ratings' warnings about rising government debt service burdens, and technical rebalancing factors.

Clarifying the PDIP's Position on MBG Budget

The article defends President Prabowo Subianto's government against PDIP politicians' claims that the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme budget represents a reduction in education spending. The author clarifies that education budgets under Prabowo have increased significantly, with allocations rising from Rp569.1 trillion in 2024 to Rp724.26 trillion in 2025 and Rp769.08 trillion in 2026, partly due to incorporating the MBG programme into the education budget nomenclature.

Quality of Life Becomes Primary Indicator of Successful Cancer Therapy in the Elderly

The paradigm for measuring cancer treatment success among elderly patients is shifting from survival rates alone to encompass overall quality of life during and after therapy. Dr Daniel Rizky, an internal medicine specialist and haematology oncology consultant, emphasises that treatment effectiveness must align with patients' physical and psychological conditions, with personalised approaches based on biological fitness (frailty index) rather than chronological age.

Lebanon on the Brink of US-Iran Conflict

Lebanon faces severe political and security challenges as tensions between the United States and Iran escalate, with the country's stability threatened by the delicate position of Hezbollah between Iranian interests and domestic pressures for disarmament.

Indonesia strengthens animal health standards in response to Saudi Arabia's poultry import restrictions

Indonesia's Ministry of Agriculture is reinforcing animal health standards and biosecurity measures following Saudi Arabia's decision to restrict poultry and egg imports from several supplier countries, including Indonesia. The government views this trade barrier as an opportunity to strengthen Indonesia's position in global livestock trade and is pursuing market access through processed poultry products that meet international sanitary standards.

Child Abuse Case in Sukabumi: Religious Affairs Ministry Official's Stepmother Faces Dishonourable Dismissal

The Indonesian Religious Affairs Ministry (Kemenag) has confirmed that TR, the stepmother of a 13-year-old boy who allegedly died from abuse in Sukabumi, is a civil servant employed by the ministry as an Islamic preacher. Kemenag has announced it will proceed with legal proceedings and will dismiss TR without honour if found guilty of criminal charges.

GOTO Management Issues Official Statement Following Chromebook Trial

PT GoTo Gojek Tokopedia Tbk (GOTO) has issued an official statement clarifying the company's investment history, particularly regarding Google's shareholdings, corporate governance, and founder Nadiem Makarim's stake.

National Police Drug Unit Arrests Major Trafficker Koh Erwin, Suspected of Bribing Senior Officer

Indonesia's National Police Bareskrim unit has arrested fugitive drug trafficker Koh Erwin (Erwin Iskandar), who allegedly supplied funds to former Bima City Police Chief AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro. The arrest follows Didik's establishment as a suspect for drug abuse and receiving approximately 2.8 billion rupiah in drug proceeds from Erwin between June and November 2025, leading to Didik's dishonourable discharge from the police force.

Government Strengthens ICT Expenditure Controls to Ensure Budget Efficiency

The Indonesian government has implemented stricter governance over information and communications technology (ICT) spending across ministries and agencies to eliminate duplication and improve budget efficiency.

Indonesia's Prabowo joins rulers of seven emirates in Abu Dhabi

President Prabowo attended an exclusive gathering with the seven emirs of the UAE in Abu Dhabi, marking a rare diplomatic honour and reflecting Indonesia's strengthened relations with the Emirates. Following the communal iftar and prayers, Prabowo held a bilateral meeting with President MBZ lasting over an hour, where they discussed strategic cooperation in energy, economics, and investment opportunities.

Apple Enforces Age Verification for 18+ Apps in Singapore Under New Online Safety Code

Apple has begun blocking access to 18+ apps in Singapore for unverified minors, effective 24 February 2026, ahead of a 31 March compliance deadline under the country's strengthened Code of Practice for Online Safety. The Infocomm Media Development Authority's framework requires app distribution platforms to prevent underage users from accessing age-inappropriate content, with Google, Huawei, Samsung and Microsoft also required to comply by the deadline.

Agrinas Imports Pickup Trucks Without Parliamentary Coordination

Commission VI of the Indonesian Parliament has raised concerns over PT Agrinas Pangan Nusantara's import of hundreds of thousands of pickup trucks from India for the Red-White Village Cooperatives without consulting the legislature. The company's CEO justified the decision by citing the need for affordable transport solutions for farmers to reach markets directly, with imported Indian vehicles costing significantly less than domestic alternatives.

Red Shallot Price IDR 44,750/kg, Bird's Eye Chilli IDR 75,550/kg Friday Morning

Indonesia's National Strategic Food Price Information Centre, managed by Bank Indonesia, recorded red shallot prices at IDR 44,750 per kilogram and bird's eye chilli at IDR 75,550 per kilogram as of Friday morning. The centre also reported prices for various other staple commodities including garlic, rice of different grades, chillies, meat, sugar, cooking oil, and eggs at the national retail trader level.

THR for Civil Servants Tax-Exempt: How Is This Possible?

The Indonesian government has allocated 55 trillion rupiah for holiday allowances (THR) to civil servants, military and police personnel in 2026, with distribution scheduled to begin on 26 February after presidential approval. Whilst THR for civil servants is technically subject to income tax, the government bears the entire tax burden, whereas private sector employees face tax deductions through article 21 income tax calculated using an average effective tax rate methodology.

Pakistan Bombs Afghan Capital

Former Afghan President Hamid Karzai has reported that Pakistani aircraft have conducted bombing raids on Afghanistan, targeting the capital Kabul as well as Kandahar and Paktia provinces. Karzai called on Afghans to unite in defence of their homeland and urged Pakistan to cease its military aggression, instead pursuing neighbourly relations and mutual respect with Afghanistan.

BRImo Customers Surge to 45.9 Million as BRI Strengthens Low-Cost Funding Base

PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia has significantly expanded its low-cost funding (CASA) through digital channel optimisation, with BRImo retail app users reaching 45.9 million in December 2025, up 18.9% year-on-year. The bank's CASA ratio improved from 66.6% in 2024 to approximately 71% in 2025, whilst total third-party funds grew 7.4% year-on-year to Rp1.466.84 trillion, supported by strong growth across digital payment platforms including QRIS which doubled its sales volume year-on-year.

Prabowo Returns Home Following Official Visit to United States, United Kingdom, Jordan and UAE

President Prabowo Subianto returned to Indonesia on Friday, 27 February, following a week-long diplomatic tour across the United States, United Kingdom, Jordan, and the United Arab Emirates. During his visits, Prabowo attended the inaugural Board of Peace meeting in the US, witnessed a semiconductor industry partnership signing in London, met with Jordan's King Abdullah II to discuss Palestinian peace efforts, and held economic talks with UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

Democratic Party Responds to Legal Challenge Seeking to Bar Presidential Family Members from Running

The Democratic Party has stated it respects a constitutional court petition filed by two lawyers challenging electoral law provisions, specifically seeking to prohibit blood relatives of sitting presidents or vice presidents from running in future elections.

IHSG Plummets Over 1% in Early Trading: Here's Why

The Indonesian Composite Index (IHSG) declined 1.47% to 8,114.00 points in early trading on Friday, 27 February 2026, driven primarily by weakness in large-capitalisation stocks, particularly energy and conglomerate shares. Major index contributors such as Barito Renewables Energy (BREN) and Dian Swastatika Sentosa (DSSA) led the sell-off, whilst technical analysis suggests a Bearish Rising Wedge pattern could lead to further corrections targeting support levels around 7,800–7,900 points.

Former Toraja Narcotics Chief Allegedly Protected Drug Traffickers; National Police Chief Orders Thorough Investigation

The Indonesian National Police (Polri) chief has ordered a comprehensive investigation into allegations that the former head of the Narcotics Unit at North Toraja Police Precinct, Senior Commissioner Arifan Efendi, and another officer allegedly protected drug trafficking networks and were involved in distribution operations.

Deputy Minister of Villages Assures Alfamart Will Not Close With Village Cooperatives

Deputy Minister of Villages Ahmad Riza Patria has assured that there are no plans to close modern retail outlets in villages, but aims to prevent new retail expansion through the development of Red and White Village Cooperatives (KDMP).

Man Charged with Assault for Slashing Female Student at UIN Suska, Motivated by Heartbreak

Police have formally charged RM (21), a resident of Banhkinang, with aggravated assault for attacking a 23-year-old female student at Sultan Syarif Kasim State Islamic University (UIN Suska) in Pekanbaru with a machete.

Semarang City Government Distributes Aid and Undertakes Rapid Response Following Tornado in Gisikdrono

Semarang city authorities conducted a rapid response following a severe tornado and heavy rainfall that struck the Gisikdrono area in West Semarang district on 25 February 2026, causing roof damage and structural damage to numerous homes with no casualties reported. The city government immediately mobilised multiple agencies to conduct damage assessments and distribute emergency logistics and tarps to affected residents.

Antam Gold Price Rises Modestly by Rp6,000 to Rp3.045 Million Per Gram This Friday

Antam gold prices rose marginally by Rp6,000 to reach Rp3.045 million per gram on Friday morning, with buyback prices climbing to Rp2.824 million per gram. The article details current pricing across various gold denominations and clarifies the applicable tax regulations for gold bar transactions under Indonesian fiscal policy.

State-Owned Airline Holding Company Targeted for Completion by 2026

Indonesia's Danantara (National Investment Management Agency) is targeting completion of a holding company merger of state-owned airlines by the first semester of 2026, combining Garuda Indonesia, Citilink, and Pertamina's Pelita Air Service. The consolidation aims to achieve operational efficiencies through unified booking systems, optimised route allocation, and cost savings without requiring additional aircraft acquisitions, with Garuda Indonesia positioned as the parent holding company.

Drug supplier and financier of former Bima police chief AKBP Didik arrested

Indonesia's Directorate of Narcotics Crime (Dittipidnarkoba) has arrested Erwin Iskandar, a suspected major drug trafficker and financier of former Bima Police Chief AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro. Erwin was apprehended in Tanjung Balai, North Sumatra whilst attempting to flee to Malaysia, along with two additional suspects who assisted his escape. The arrest marks a significant development in an ongoing investigation into narcotics distribution and corruption involving a senior police officer.

Behind the Wheel at Grab: The Struggle of Partners to Survive, Rise, and Depart for Umrah

Grab Indonesia held an appreciation event showcasing five driver partners from different regions who have achieved personal and financial success through the platform, with several advancing to perform the umrah pilgrimage. The stories highlight how gig work as Grab drivers has become a pathway for social mobility, economic empowerment, and community leadership, particularly for marginalised groups including persons with disabilities.

Ibas Emphasises Irrigation Continuity as Key to National Food Sovereignty

Deputy Chairman of Indonesia's People's Consultative Assembly Edhie Baskoro Yudhoyono visited an irrigation programme in Ngawi, East Java, emphasising that over 70 per cent of national rice production depends on irrigation systems and that a 10 per cent improvement in irrigation efficiency can raise rice productivity by 5–8 per cent.

Indonesian Navy to Send 100 Personnel to Italy for Training on Giuseppe Garibaldi Aircraft Carrier

Indonesia's Navy will deploy approximately 100 personnel to Italy for training on operating the Giuseppe Garibaldi aircraft carrier, which is projected to become Indonesia's first aircraft carrier, with arrival expected before the Navy's 81st anniversary in October 2026. The training will include direct instruction aboard the vessel during its voyage from Italy to Indonesia, with the ship expected to support both military operations other than war and conventional military operations.

Indonesia to Develop Electricity from Waste, Foreign Developers Must Transfer Technology

Indonesia's Danantara Investment Management is moving forward with Waste to Energy (WTE) projects across four cities—Bekasi, Denpasar, Yogyakarta, and Bogor—with mandatory technology transfer requirements for foreign partners. The first phase of development requires approximately USD 600 million in total investment, structured with 70% debt and 30% equity financing, whilst positioning waste management transformation as a catalyst for systemic regional improvements.

Marine Corps Prepares Training Materials for Civil Service Reserve Component

The Indonesian Marine Corps (Korps Marinir) is preparing comprehensive training materials for a reserve component (komcad) programme involving 2,000 civil service personnel (ASN) scheduled to commence in April 2026. The training will be conducted across five military education facilities nationwide over approximately 1.5 months, with the Ministry of Defence allocating 4,000 total quotas across government ministries and agencies for two waves of training.

ASMINDO Strengthens Global Furniture Supply Chain Through Indonesia-US Strategic Partnership

ASMINDO, Indonesia's furniture and handicrafts industry association, is reinforcing its commitment to sustainable trade partnerships with American hardwood exporters through the American Hardwood Export Council (AHEC), following the signing of a reciprocal tariff agreement between Indonesia and the United States in February 2026.

Ministry of Industry Clarifies Sedaap Noodle Worker Termination Controversy

The Ministry of Industry has clarified that Mie Sedaap's noodle factory in Gresik, East Java, did not terminate permanent employees but rather reduced its outsourced workforce following seasonal production normalisation.

BMKG: Alert for Heavy Rain and Strong Winds in Jakarta

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has issued a national weather forecast for 27 February to 5 March 2026, predicting light to moderate rainfall across the country driven by the Asian monsoon and equatorial wave activity. Multiple regions including Jakarta, West Java, and eastern Indonesia are on alert for heavy to very heavy rainfall and strong winds, with local extreme weather possible.

Ruben Amorim on Vasco da Gama's Radar as Manager Search Intensifies

Vasco da Gama has reportedly shortlisted Portuguese manager Ruben Amorim as a potential replacement after sacking Fernando Diniz and parting ways with Philippe Coutinho. The Rio de Janeiro club, currently languishing in 20th place in Brazil's Serie A, seeks a tactical mastermind to reverse their poor form, with Amorim among several Portuguese candidates being considered alongside Artur Jorge, Leonardo Jardim, and Carlos Carvalhal.

Agustina-Iswar Leadership Expands Educational Access and Returns Withheld Diplomas

Semarang's Mayor Agustina Wilujeng and Vice Mayor Iswar Aminuddin have prioritised education during their first year in office, implementing the flagship "Semarang Cerdas" (Smart Semarang) programme to ensure equal educational opportunities for disadvantaged children. Key achievements include clearing 122 pupils' school fee arrears (Rp 71.4 million), distributing withheld diplomas to 374 students, and providing operational support to private schools serving over 16,000 disadvantaged pupils.

OJK Approves Merger of 4 Regional Banks to Strengthen UMKM Credit

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has approved the consolidation of four regional development banks (BPRs) in East Priangan into PT BPR Nusamba Tanjungsari, aiming to strengthen capital and competitiveness. The merger, which includes PT BPR Nusamba Sukaraja, Plered, Singaparna, and PT BPR Mitra Harmoni Indramayu, forms part of a broader strategy to enhance BPR efficiency and support micro, small, and medium enterprise (UMKM) financing across Indonesia.

BKPM Confident Investment Will Increase Following Business Identification Number Acceleration

Indonesia's Investment Ministry and the Investment Coordination Board (BKPM) expect national investment realisation to surge following the acceleration of Business Identification Number (NIB) issuance through amendments to Government Regulation No. 28 of 2025 and optimisation of the Online Single Submission (OSS) system.

Kazakhstan Plants Tens of Thousands of Trees to Restore Tigers Missing for 70 Years

Kazakhstan is undertaking an ambitious conservation project to reintroduce tigers to their historical habitat in the South Balkhash region after the species disappeared in the late 1940s. The government, supported by the World Wildlife Fund and United Nations Development Programme, planted 37,000 trees in 2024 alone and has planted approximately 50,000 saplings since 2021 to restore the ecosystem necessary for tiger survival.

Riza Chalid's Interference Results in 15-Year Sentence for Son Kerry Adrianto

A Jakarta Corruption Court panel has found that oil entrepreneur Mohamad Riza Chalid played a role in facilitating a fuel terminal lease arrangement that led to his son Muhamad Kerry Adrianto Riza receiving a 15-year prison sentence in a Pertamina crude oil and refinery product management corruption case.

BEM UI Stormed Police Headquarters Demanding Heavy Sentence for Bripda Mesias and Removal of National Police Chief

The University of Indonesia Student Executive Board (BEM UI) staged a protest at National Police Headquarters on 27 February 2026, demanding severe punishment for Bripda Mesias Siahaya, the police officer accused of fatally assaulting 14-year-old student Arianto Tawakal, and calling for the removal of National Police Chief Listyo Sigit and Maluku Provincial Police Chief Dadang Hartanto.

Police Arrest Fugitive Drug Trafficker Ko Erwin in North Sumatra

The Indonesian National Police's Criminal Investigation Directorate arrested major drug trafficker Erwin Iskandar, alias Ko Erwin, on 26 February whilst attempting to flee to Malaysia from Tanjung Balai, North Sumatra. Two additional suspects were also apprehended for allegedly arranging Ko Erwin's escape abroad.

Three Chinese Brands Enter World's Top 10 Automotive Manufacturers 2025

Three Chinese automotive manufacturers – BYD, SAIC, and Geely – have entered the global top 10 rankings for 2025, with BYD reaching sixth place with 4.602 million units sold, marking its first time surpassing Tesla in electric vehicle sales. China's overall automotive market share increased to 35.6 per cent globally in 2025, whilst Chinese vehicle production reached 34.531 million units, maintaining the country's position as the world's largest automotive market for 17 consecutive years.

House Budget Commission Chair Highlights Governance and Budget Transparency of Free Nutritious Meal Programme

The Chair of the House Budget Commission has issued a comprehensive statement addressing governance and budgetary concerns regarding Indonesia's Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme, acknowledging that whilst the initiative addresses genuine nutritional deficiencies affecting approximately 19 per cent of Indonesian children, improvements in management and compliance are required.

Amid IHSG Pressure, Can BPJS Funds Become Indonesia's Market Bulwark?

The Indonesian Composite Index (IHSG) faces renewed pressure amid risks of foreign capital outflows ahead of the MSCI rebalancing and global macro uncertainty. BPJS Ketenagakerjaan (BPJS-TK), as a major domestic institutional fund, is positioned as a potential buffer for the market, with capacity to inject Rp40-70 trillion annually if its equity allocation is increased from the current 11-12% to 20-25% over the coming years.

KPK Investigates Money Flow in Lamongan Regency Government Building Construction Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is deepening its investigation into alleged corruption in the construction of a Lamongan Regency government building in East Java during fiscal years 2017–2019, examining money flows from the project. The investigation remains active with four suspects identified and estimated state financial losses of approximately IDR151 billion.

Young Generation Switches Banks Easily, Deloitte Survey Reveals Reasons

A Deloitte report released on 12 February 2026 reveals that whilst Generation Z and millennials report high satisfaction levels (93-95 per cent) with their primary banks, they paradoxically pose the greatest risk of switching to other financial institutions. The survey finds that young consumers' loyalty is conditional rather than absolute, with even minor friction points—such as slow fund transfers, confusing fee structures, or poor digital experiences—triggering account closures.

Mobile Samsat Services Open at 14 Locations Across Greater Jakarta on Friday

The Metro Jaya Police Department is providing mobile Samsat (Integrated Single Roof Administration System) services at 14 locations across Jakarta, Depok, Tangerang, and Bekasi on Friday to facilitate public vehicle tax payments.

Secondary School Student in Belu Remains Hospitalised After Assault by Teacher

A 16-year-old student at SMA Negeri 1 Atambua in Belu, East Nusa Tenggara, remains hospitalised following a severe assault by substitute biology teacher Vince Aplugi on 24 February 2026. The teacher struck and threw the student after she was unable to draw a nerve cell diagram during an examination, subsequently striking all 33 students in the class.

Prabowo Returns to Indonesia After Attending Board of Peace Meeting and Meeting UAE President MBZ

President Prabowo Subianto returned to Indonesia on 27 February 2026 following an international working visit to the United States, United Kingdom, Jordan, and the United Arab Emirates.

Reasons Behind Delayed Professional Allowance Payments for Madrasah Teachers, Ministry of Religious Affairs Claims No Obstacles

The Ministry of Religious Affairs (Kemenag) has addressed circulating reports that professional allowances for madrasah teachers for January and February 2026 remain unpaid. The Director General of Islamic Education clarified that the delay is procedural, as budget allocation cannot be requested whilst Teacher Professional Education (PPG) programmes are still underway; budgets must be submitted in the preceding year and undergo Ministry of Finance review before disbursement.

The First Halaqah in History at Times Square

Dr Faraj Hasan led Muslim worshippers in a historic halaqah gathering at Times Square in New York, where participants sat in a circle to recite Surah Al-Fatiha together. The event brought together Muslims from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and languages, demonstrating religious unity and finding moments of spiritual tranquillity amidst the noise and commercial bustle of one of the world's busiest locations.

Antam Gold Prices Rise Again Today

Antam gold prices increased on Friday, 27 February 2026, with 1-gram bullion trading at IDR 3,045,000 per unit, up IDR 6,000 from the previous trading session. The buyback price also rose to IDR 2,824,000 per gram. Global gold prices remain relatively stable as markets await the outcome of nuclear negotiations between the United States and Iran, with spot prices hovering around USD 5,182 per troy ounce.

Drug Trafficker Erwin Arrested in North Sumatra Following Former Bima Police Chief Investigation

Erwin Iskandar, a wanted drug trafficker suspected of involvement in a case implicating former Bima City Police Chief AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro, was arrested by the Indonesian National Police's Narcotics Directorate on 26 February 2026 in Tanjungbalai, North Sumatra, whilst allegedly attempting to flee to Malaysia by boat.

Ibas Urges Farmers to Make Ramadan a Reminder of Water's Importance

Deputy Chair of the MPR Edhie Baskoro Yudhoyono (Ibas) has stressed that irrigation is the lifeblood of national agriculture, with over 70 per cent of rice production dependent on irrigation systems. Visiting irrigation programmes in Ngawi, East Java, Ibas highlighted that a 10 per cent improvement in irrigation efficiency can boost rice productivity by 5–8 per cent, whilst emphasising that water management is both a constitutional obligation and key to national food security.

Corruption Eradication Commission examines 14 witnesses in Sudewo extortion case regarding money transfer through coordinator

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has examined 14 witnesses in an alleged extortion case involving suspended Pati Regent Sudewo, focusing on money transfers made via village head coordinators and the mechanism for appointing village officials for 2026 in Pati Regency, Central Java.

Sarong Fight Claims Life in Grobogan, Death Initially Staged as Accident

A 16-year-old boy died following a sarong-fighting duel between two youth groups in Grobogan Regency, Central Java, on 25 February. Police discovered that the suspects had initially staged the incident as a motorcycle accident before the victim's family reported the true nature of the clash. Authorities secured seven sarongs as evidence and have questioned six witnesses, whilst awaiting forensic laboratory results to determine the precise cause of death.

Breaking News: IHSG Falls Deeper with 1.5% Correction

Indonesia's composite stock index (IHSG) declined 1.5% to 8,114 points on Friday morning as profit-taking activity continued following Thursday's losses. Technical analysis suggests a Bearish Rising Wedge pattern could trigger further correction to support levels of 7,800-7,900, whilst global economic sentiment remains pressured by new US trade tariffs on Indonesian solar products at 104.38%.

Online Vehicle Registration Renewal for Others Now Available: Here Are the Requirements

Indonesia's vehicle registration authority now allows annual vehicle registration certificate (STNK) renewal online through the SIGNAL application without visiting a local Samsat office. The service permits registration renewal on behalf of family members listed on the same household card, requiring documents such as vehicle registration numbers, identity cards, and email verification through a simple app-based process.

BBPOM DKI Conducts Iftar Takeaway Supervision Across Five Jakarta Regions During Ramadan

The Jakarta Food and Drug Administration (BBPOM DKI) has implemented surveillance of iftar takeaway (takjil) vendors across five Jakarta regions during Ramadan, covering central distribution hubs in each area. Of 147 food samples tested in 2025, six samples (4.1 per cent) failed to meet safety standards, primarily containing harmful substances such as formalin and textile dyes like Rhodamine B.

Government Should Facilitate, Not Direct Village Red and White Cooperatives

This opinion article critiques the government's Village Red and White Cooperative (KDMP) programme, arguing that government should facilitate rather than direct cooperative development.

Global Gold Prices Remain Stable as Markets Await US-Iran Nuclear Negotiations Results

Global gold prices held steady on 26 February 2026, with spot gold trading at $5,168.72 per ounce as market participants adopted a cautious stance ahead of the third round of indirect nuclear negotiations between the United States and Iran in Geneva. Market analysts anticipate potential price corrections if geopolitical agreements are reached, though long-term upside momentum remains possible with prices potentially reaching $5,340-$5,400 per ounce.

Circulation of PANRB Minister's Letter on Civil Servants Becoming Military Reserve Components

Indonesia's Minister of State Apparatus Empowerment and Bureaucratic Reform has issued a circular requesting civil servants (ASN) to participate in basic military training to become reserve components (komcad) in support of national defence efforts.

Dialogue with Farmers in Ngawi: Ibas Emphasises the Importance of Food Sovereignty

Deputy Speaker of the People's Consultative Assembly Edhie Baskoro Yudhoyono (Ibas) held a dialogue with farmers in Ngawi, East Java, emphasising that food sovereignty is essential to national strength and true independence. Ibas advocated for diversification beyond rice production, highlighted opportunities from the Free Nutritious Meals programme, and addressed farmers' concerns about price instability, input distribution, and access to modern agricultural technologies.

KPK Probes Role of Consultants during Examination of Three Architects in Abdul Azis Case

Indonesia's Anti-Corruption Commission (KPK) is investigating the role of consulting firms in the alleged corruption case involving Bupati Abdul Azis of Kolaka Timur and the construction of a regional general hospital. Three architects from different consulting firms were examined as witnesses on 26 February 2026, with the investigation focusing on consultant involvement in the hospital project which has already resulted in the arrest of eight suspects.

Tesla adds "Grok" AI technology to vehicles

Tesla is deploying its Grok artificial intelligence chatbot to Tesla Model Y and Model 3 vehicles in Australia, enabling voice-controlled features for navigation, route planning, and destination identification. The rollout will be phased, beginning with vehicles equipped with Hardware 3, requiring compatible AMD processors and specific software versions (2025.26 or newer) to access full functionality. Tesla Model S and Model X are also compatible with the new AI system.

Udayana University Researchers Test Soil Samples from Benoa Mangrove, Discover Contamination from Fuel-Like Compounds

Researchers from Udayana University's Agricultural Hospital have identified 41 hydrocarbon compounds in soil samples from Benoa mangrove forests in Denpasar, Bali, with most matching those found in petroleum fuel products, particularly diesel.

Lung Cancer: A Serious Threat Lurking Among Non-Smokers of Working Age

Lung cancer is increasingly affecting non-smokers and people of working age in Indonesia, with cases emerging approximately ten years earlier than the global average, according to medical consultants at a recent briefing in Jakarta. Non-small-cell lung cancer, which accounts for 90% of cases, is particularly prevalent among non-smokers and is often diagnosed at advanced stages due to minimal early symptoms, resulting in significantly lower survival rates.

Breaking News: Rupiah Opens Weaker, US Dollar Strengthens to IDR16,755

The Indonesian rupiah opened weaker against the US dollar on Friday 27 February 2026, trading at IDR16,755/USD and depreciating 0.03% despite the previous day's gains. The dollar index remains relatively stable in global markets, whilst the rupiah's movement is driven by US dollar dynamics, labour market strength, and expectations of potential Federal Reserve rate cuts of approximately 50 basis points throughout 2026.

Analysts Identify 2026 as Year of Garuda Acceleration, Potential Exit from Survival Phase

Analysts project 2026 as a pivotal acceleration phase for PT Garuda Indonesia following a consolidation period in 2025 and a substantial capital injection of Rp 23.67 trillion from majority shareholder Danantara Indonesia. The funding infusion is expected to catalyse structured recovery, with operational improvements including the reactivation of 15 aircraft in 2025 and a target of 13 additional aircraft in 2026, whilst management forecasts achieving net profitability by end of 2027.

BGN Boss: Rp6 Million Daily Incentive for MBG Partners is Not Wasteful, Highly Efficient

The head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), Dadan Hindayana, defended the Rp6 million daily incentive scheme for SPPG facilities partners, arguing it represents an efficient and low-risk strategy rather than wasteful spending. The incentives are funded from service payment mechanisms rather than the state budget, with partners bearing all financial and operational risks whilst completing construction in approximately two months—significantly faster than bureaucratic APBN processes.

Opening Weakly, JSX Index Attempts Rebound to Match Majority Gains across Asia-Pacific Exchanges

The Jakarta Stock Exchange (JSX) opened 13 points lower on 27 February 2026, as analysts predict the index will test support levels at 8,200 with potential short-term technical rebounds. Most Asia-Pacific indices rose following Nvidia's strong earnings report, though Wall Street closed mixed as broader market sentiment remained cautious despite the chip manufacturer's impressive results.

National Nutrition Agency: Rp 6 Million Daily Incentive for Nutrition Services Not Development Funding from State Budget

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) head Dadan Hindayana clarified that the Rp 6 million daily incentive paid to nutrition service delivery units (SPPG) does not constitute development funding from the state budget but rather a payment mechanism for operational services.

IHSG Under Pressure, Opens Down 0.59%

Indonesia's Composite Stock Index (IHSG) opened down 0.59% at 8,186.31 points on Friday 27 February 2026, amid profit-taking and emerging bearish technical signals. The formation of a Bearish Rising Wedge pattern suggests potential further correction towards support levels of 7,800-7,900, representing approximately a 4% decline. Sentiment remains cautious due to rising US trade protectionism, particularly new tariffs on solar cell and panel imports from Indonesia at 104.

Real-World Experience with Wuling Confero ACT 2022: Durable but Fuel-Hungry?

A Jakarta user shares his experience with the 2022 Wuling Confero ACT seven-seater vehicle, praising its durability and comfort for daily work use but noting significant fuel consumption concerns. The vehicle achieves approximately 1:10 fuel efficiency in city driving and 1:12 on highways, which the owner considers poor for its class, though its 1.5-litre engine performs adequately on inclines with proper driving technique.

Commission II of People's Consultative Assembly Highlights East Kalimantan Governor's Official Vehicle, Calls for Sensitivity to Public Conditions

Deputy Chairman of Commission II of the Indonesian House of Representatives Dede Yusuf has called on East Kalimantan Governor Rudy Mas'ud to reconsider the 8.5 billion rupiah budget allocation for an official gubernatorial vehicle, citing the need to consider current economic conditions of the public.

Broken Crayons Bring Life to Sanitation Worker's Daughter's Dream

Ten-year-old Agista Saputri, the daughter of a sanitation worker, sells drawings made with broken crayons at Puri Kartika, Ciledug, Tangerang, to help support her family's basic needs. Her initiative generates modest income of Rp5,000–Rp10,000 per drawing, which she uses to buy rice for the household, whilst also building confidence through direct customer interaction.

Sarong Warfare and Ramadan's Wounds

Sarong warfare—a violent distortion of a traditional Ramadan game where youths wrap sarongs around their hands and fill them with stones—has resurfaced in Mataram, West Nusa Tenggara, prompting local authorities to intensify patrols and impose strict disciplinary measures on students.

SIG Maintains Zero Fatalities Throughout 2025 While Protecting Productivity

PT Semen Indonesia (SIG) has achieved zero recordable fatalities across all cement manufacturing facilities in 2025, demonstrating its commitment to workplace safety and health as core operational values. The state-owned enterprise has also exceeded safety targets, recording a Lost Time Injury Frequency Rate of 0.13 against a target of 0.3, whilst implementing comprehensive safety programmes including Visible Safety Leadership and safety academies.

Ramadhan, Independence, and the Unfinished Promise of Social Justice

On the occasion of Indonesia's 83rd independence anniversary coinciding with the month of Ramadhan, the article reflects on whether the promise of social justice embedded in the nation's proclamation has been realised. The piece examines the spiritual and moral dimensions of independence, emphasising that true freedom requires not only political liberation but also economic justice, social solidarity, and the eradication of corruption that undermines public trust and perpetuates inequality.

Pejaten Animal Shelter: Do Not Abandon Dogs, Seek Alternative Solutions

Pejaten Animal Shelter has appealed to Jakarta residents not to abandon dogs, urging them to seek alternative solutions instead. The shelter receives approximately one dog abandonment report daily, predominantly on highways, which strains its capacity and makes rescue operations difficult. To address the crisis, the shelter is requesting support through funding sterilisation and vaccination programmes, increased adoption rates, and exploration of new shelter facilities outside Jakarta.

Indonesia and UK Launch Economic Growth Partnership to Unlock Future-Ready Trade

Indonesia and the United Kingdom have officially launched the UK-Indonesia Economic Growth Partnership (EGP), a framework designed to advance bilateral trade and investment beyond traditional diplomacy by focusing on measurable outcomes across priority sectors including digital economy, supply chain resilience, green transition, and infrastructure.

IHSG Under Pressure, These Shares Become Champions for Profit Seekers

The Indonesia Composite Stock Price Index fell 1.04% to 8,235.26 on 26 February, with foreign investors recording net selling whilst the broader market remained in positive territory overall. Individual stocks showed mixed performance, with Garuda Indonesia reporting operational improvements following Danantara's restructuring assistance, and Puradelta Lestari targeting 30% revenue growth driven by strong demand for data centre development.

Tragic Death of Udayana Veterinary Medicine Student at Base of Shortcut Bridge 7

A 22-year-old student from Udayana University's Faculty of Veterinary Medicine was found dead at the base of Shortcut Bridge 7 in Bali's Buleleng Regency on 26 February, with preliminary suspicions pointing to suicide. The body was discovered by a villager who noticed a motorcycle abandoned at the bridge for several hours, prompting a search that revealed the fatal injuries including fractured legs and head trauma.

Russia respects Indonesia's stance on Gaza Peace Board, but declines to join

Russia's Ambassador to Indonesia, Sergei Tolchenov, has affirmed Moscow's respect for Indonesia's decision to join the Board of Peace (BoP) for Gaza, whilst emphasising that Russia itself will not participate. Tolchenov cited Russia's concerns about the absence of explicit provisions for a two-state solution and Palestinian representation within the Board's structure, though he acknowledged that Russia respects other nations' sovereign choices to participate.

Antam Gold Price Update Today (27/2) Strengthens Again, Check Latest List

Antam gold prices rose again on Friday, 27 February 2026, reaching IDR 3,045,000 per gramme as of 08:40 WIB, up IDR 6,000 from the morning opening price of IDR 3,039,000 per gramme. The precious metal is available in various weights from 0.5 grammes to 1 kilogramme, with purchases subject to income tax (PPh 22) documentation and buyback sales above IDR 10 million subject to direct tax deductions.

Voice Could Become a Privacy Threat: How to Prevent AI from Exploiting It?

Recent research reveals that artificial intelligence can extract sensitive personal information from human speech, including education level, emotional state, financial condition, and even political views, creating risks for discriminatory pricing, unfair profiling, and harassment.

Huawei Cloud Core Network Embraces New Era of Experience-Based Customer Monetisation

Huawei Cloud has advanced 5G-A enabled customer experience monetisation from pilot implementations to large-scale commercial deployment, with over 45 million users in China already utilising the service.

Bond Yields Decline as Two Fixed Income Funds Post Double-Digit Returns Over Past Year

Sucorinvest Bond Fund and KIM Fixed Income Fund Plus delivered double-digit annual returns of 12.04% and 10.49% respectively as of 26 February 2026, with Indonesian government bond yields declining to 6.404%. The strong performance reflects a favourable fixed income market environment alongside broader equity market weakness, with the IHSG declining 1.04% on the same day.

Characteristics of Koh Erwin, Drug Trafficker who Deposited Billions to AKBP Didik

The National Police's Criminal Investigation Directorate (Bareskrim) has issued a wanted persons list (DPO) for drug trafficker Erwin alias Koh Erwin, who allegedly transferred billions of rupiah and narcotics to former Bima City Police Chief AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro. The wanted poster details Koh Erwin's physical characteristics and known residences across South Sulawesi and West Nusa Tenggara.

Caution: MSCI Rebalancing Looms Over IHSG Today

The MSCI February 2026 rebalancing on 27 February sees three Indonesian stocks affected: PT Indofood Sukses Makmur (INDF) dropping from the Global Standard Index to Small Cap Index, whilst PT Aspirasi Hidup Indonesia (ACES) and PT Sariguna Primatirta (CLEO) are being removed from the Small Cap Index entirely.

Asia-Pacific Markets Mixed Following Nvidia's 5 Per Cent Decline, Global Technology Stocks Under Pressure

Asia-Pacific markets opened with mixed results on Friday, 27 February 2026, following a sharp decline in US markets as Nvidia fell over 5 per cent despite reporting fourth quarter 2025 earnings and revenue that exceeded market expectations. The sell-off in the chip manufacturer, coupled with Salesforce's disappointing performance, weighed on global technology stocks, with major semiconductor suppliers and partners in Asia also declining. The S&P 500 fell 0.

Yesterday: Measles-rubella immunisation drive and Mount Semeru cold lahar disaster

Indonesia's Health Ministry launched an accelerated measles-rubella (MR) immunisation campaign for preschool and kindergarten children starting the following week in response to a measles case involving a foreign national who had travelled to Indonesia. Mount Semeru in East Java experienced heavy rainfall triggering nearly four hours of lahar tremors on Thursday, prompting police in Lumajang to assist primary school pupils in crossing the hazardous cold lahar flows to reach school.

Flexport Launches Technology Automating Trade Tariff Refunds

Flexport has launched a suite of AI agents designed to automate customs compliance, trade tariff refunds, and supply chain optimisation, significantly reducing costs and regulatory errors in global commerce. The new tools include an AI customs auditor that checks for regulatory compliance with a 0.2% error rate, an automated tariff refund calculator, and a supply chain optimisation agent that reduces shipping costs by approximately 10%.

China's healthcare system races to catch up with rapid ageing

China faces unprecedented demographic pressures as its population ages rapidly, with projections showing 30 per cent of citizens aged 60 and above by 2035, creating surging demand for specialist healthcare services including palliative care.

Court Sentences Nine Defendants in Major Pertamina Corruption Case, Including Son of Fugitive Riza Chalid

A Jakarta anti-corruption court has sentenced nine defendants in a major corruption case involving crude oil and refinery product mismanagement at state-owned Pertamina and its subsidiaries between 2018 and 2023. Sentences ranged from nine to 15 years imprisonment, with Muhammad Kerry Adrianto Riza, the son of fugitive Mohammad Riza Chalid, receiving the heaviest sentence of 15 years plus a 2.9 trillion rupiah fine.

Truecaller Partners with AnyMind Group to Expand Direct Sales Footprint in MENA and Southeast Asia

Truecaller has announced a strategic direct sales partnership with AnyMind Group to accelerate growth of its advertising business in the Middle East & North Africa (MENA) and Southeast Asia regions.

Eid Homecoming 2026: Overflow Markets and Extreme Weather in Focus

Indonesia's Minister of Transport Dudy Purwagandhi has emphasised that safety and security remain top priorities for the 2026 Eid transport operations, citing risks from traffic congestion caused by overflow markets and extreme weather. The Transport Ministry has mapped at least 56 locations across major Java cities—4 in Banten, 25 in West Java, 12 in Central Java, 6 in Yogyakarta, and 9 in East Java—that require preventive measures to manage disruptions during the annual homecoming rush.

Truecaller Partners with AnyMind Group to Expand Direct Sales Footprint Across MENA and Southeast Asia

Truecaller has partnered with AnyMind Group to expand its advertising business across MENA and Southeast Asia, with AnyMind serving as an exclusive intermediary for Truecaller's premium ad formats in 11 markets including Malaysia, Singapore, and Vietnam.

AI Calling: Building Future-Focused Voice Service Networks

Huawei is promoting advanced AI Calling solutions that integrate artificial intelligence with next-generation voice services, leveraging 5G-A technology and its Single Voice Core platform to deliver enhanced call experiences and new value-added services for telecommunications operators globally.

Undisbursed Loan Phenomenon Deemed Normal

The Financial Services Authority (OJK)'s Executive Head of Banking Supervision, Dian Ediana Rae, characterises the undisbursed loan phenomenon—where credit facilities remain undrawn at private banks—as a normal and recurring feature of the banking business cycle. Indonesia's undisbursed loans reached Rp2.

Academic and Social Pressure Weighs on Students, Mental Health Comes into Focus

An Indonesian university student has highlighted the pervasive mental health challenges faced by undergraduates due to combined academic workload and social pressures, including difficulties adapting to campus life and managing group projects. The case underscores the critical importance of accessible professional counselling services and university support systems in helping students maintain psychological wellbeing throughout their studies.

Ministry of Transport Opens Free Mudik Registration from 1 March 2026: Registration Link, Quotas, Routes, and Schedule

Indonesia's Ministry of Transport (Kemenhub) has announced the opening of free mudik (homecoming) registration for the 2026 Eid holiday period, with applications opening on 1 March and available through 15 March 2026. The programme offers free transportation via bus, train, and ship for Indonesians returning to their home regions, with daily quotas and registrations closing automatically once capacity is reached.

BBPOM DKI reminds public of dangerous substances in iftar foods

The Jakarta Food and Drug Authority (BBPOM DKI) has warned consumers about dangerous substances found in takjil (traditional iftar foods), including textile dyes like rhodamin B and methanyl yellow, after discovering one contaminated sample among 27 tested at a local market.

IHSG Projected to Decline Further, Consider Five Recommended Stocks with Profit Potential Selected by Analysts

The Indonesian Composite Stock Index (IHSG) is expected to continue declining on Friday, 27 February 2026, having fallen 1.04 per cent to 8,235.26, with analysts projecting further weakness to the 8,000–8,075 support level. Binaartha Sekuritas analyst Ivan Rosanova identifies five stocks with profit potential for investors, including Indofood, Japfa Comfeed, Merdeka Battery Materials, Merdeka Copper Gold, and Unilever Indonesia, each with specific buy zones and price targets.

Amount of Scholarship Funds Arya Iwantoro Must Repay to LPDP

The Indonesian Education Fund Management Agency (LPDP) is calculating the exact amount of scholarship funds and interest that Arya Iwantoro, husband of former official Dwi Sasetyaningtyas, must repay after failing to complete his mandatory service obligation in Indonesia following his studies in the Netherlands.

DSN MUI Fatwa Strengthens Islamic Bullion Business

Indonesia's National Sharia Board (DSN-MUI) has issued Fatwa Number 166 on Islamic gold bullion business activities, providing regulatory clarity and Sharia-compliant guidelines for the gold trading and investment sector. The fatwa, launched by PT Pegadaian at its tower headquarters, establishes frameworks for gold savings schemes, financing, trading, and custody using Sharia-compliant contracts, with particular emphasis on collective gold ownership (emas musya') for digital gold investments.

Harita Nickel Supports North Maluku Regional Government in Human Resources Development

Harita Nickel, a nickel downstream processing operator in North Maluku, supports the provincial government's human resources development vision through its PELITA vocational skills training programme. The fourth cohort of the programme trains 40 young people from Obi Island as certified overhead crane operators, addressing a significant skills gap where only 25.23% of the province's workforce has been absorbed into the formal processing industry sector.

Sukadame-Kubangkondang Road Completed, Andra Soni Calls on Residents to Maintain Village Infrastructure

Governor Andra Soni of Banten Province inaugurated the completion of a 1.4-kilometre concrete road in the Sukadame-Kubangkondang area of Pandeglang Regency, constructed through the Bangun Jalan Desa Sejahtera (Build Prosperous Village Roads) programme in 2025 to enhance economic activity and agricultural access.

Ahmad Ali of PSI Deems Surya Paloh's Proposal of 7 Per Cent Parliamentary Threshold Contrary to Spirit of National Reform

Ahmad Ali, chairman of the Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI), has criticised the National Democratic Party's (Nasdem) proposal to raise the parliamentary threshold from 4 per cent to 7 per cent, arguing it contradicts the spirit of reform and democratic openness that has guided Indonesian politics since 1998.

PKB: Trade Agreement with US a Major Leap for Indonesian Industry

Deputy Chairman of PKB's Central Leadership, Faisol Riza, has praised the bilateral trade agreement between President Prabowo Subianto and US President Donald Trump under the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART) scheme, describing it as a strategic step strengthening Indonesia's position in global trade.

Udayana University Researchers Discover Fuel Contamination in Mangrove Soil at Benoa, Bali

Researchers from Udayana University's Agricultural Hospital have identified 41 hydrocarbon compounds, predominantly diesel, contaminating mangrove soil in Benoa, Denpasar, through advanced laboratory analysis. The hydrocarbon compounds, particularly those in the C15-C24 range characteristic of diesel fuel, have accumulated in the soil and impair mangrove plants' ability to absorb water and minerals, leading to yellowing, defoliation, and eventual plant death.

Asian markets mostly decline, following Wall Street's weakness

Asian-Pacific stock exchanges moved variously on Friday, declining in tandem with Wall Street weakness after technology shares fell sharply despite strong earnings reports. Major indices including Japan's Nikkei (down 0.6%), South Korea's Kospi (down 1.1%), and technology stocks across the region retreated, with Nvidia losing over 5% despite beating quarterly profit and revenue expectations, triggering broader semiconductor sector declines.

Investment: Important and Necessary, What Is the Islamic Perspective?

This article examines investment through an Islamic lens, arguing that whilst Islam prohibits hoarding wealth without benefit, it encourages prudent investment aligned with Sharia principles of transparency, fairness, and risk-sharing.

United Tractors (UNTR) Records Net Profit of IDR 14.8 Trillion Throughout 2025

PT United Tractors Tbk reported a net profit of IDR 14.8 trillion for 2025, representing a 24 per cent decline from the previous year, driven by reduced earnings from its mining contractor and thermal coal segments due to high rainfall and lower coal prices. The company's total net revenue fell 2 per cent to IDR 131.3 trillion, supported primarily by four key business segments including construction machinery, mining, and precious metals operations.

Drama Involving Calya Driving Against Traffic on Gunung Sahari: Fake Number Plates and Sharp Weapons

A 25-year-old driver, Hafiz Mahendra, was apprehended on Gunung Sahari, Central Jakarta, after driving a Toyota Calya against traffic while carrying two sharp weapons (a machete and a dagger) and possessing four different vehicle number plates. Police have charged him under traffic and road transport law articles with a maximum sentence of four years imprisonment and a fine of 8 million rupiah, whilst investigators are examining whether the incident indicates premeditated criminal intent.

Dasco Requests Suspension of 105,000 Pickup Imports from India, Government and Parliament to Meet

Parliament's Deputy Chairman Sufmi Dasco Ahmad has requested the government postpone plans to import 105,000 vehicles from India for village cooperatives until President Prabowo can review the proposal in detail. Cooperatives Minister Ferry Juliantono agreed the postponement is appropriate, noting concerns from industry stakeholders and labour unions about protecting Indonesia's domestic automotive sector.

Not During Eid, This Is Actually the Peak of Indonesian Internet Activity

PT Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison projects a significant 18% surge in data traffic during the 2026 Eid period, with peak traffic expected on Day 2 after Eid rather than on the holiday itself. The telecommunications operator is preparing for approximately 14 million customers to travel during the exodus period by reinforcing networks across 797 points of interest and deploying over 2,500 engineers on standby.

IHSG Today Expected to Strengthen Around 8,650

Indonesia's Composite Stock Price Index (IHSG) is projected to strengthen in the 8,440–8,650 range on Friday 27 February 2026, following a 1.04% decline to 8,235 in the previous session. MNC Securities technical analyst Herditya Wicaksana notes the index is currently in wave (c) of wave [x], with further upside potential, though traders must monitor the correction zone of 8,081–8,149.

PDIP Issues Circular Instructing Members Not to Profit from Free Nutritious Meals Programme

The Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) has issued an internal circular directive prohibiting party members from exploiting the government's Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme for personal or group profit. The directive, signed by party leaders, directly responds to claims by the National Nutrition Agency that all political parties operate MBG kitchens, with PDIP asserting the programme is public funds derived from taxpayer education budgets and must not be commercialised.

Mystery of Four Fake Number Plates Found in Reckless Vehicle in Gunung Sahari

Police have arrested 24-year-old HM, the driver of a black Toyota Calya that drove recklessly against traffic and collided with multiple vehicles in Jakarta's Gunung Sahari area on 25 February 2026. Investigations revealed four different number plates, two sharp weapons, and a toy firearm in the vehicle, along with the driver's lack of valid driving licence and vehicle registration documents, with charges under Traffic Law Article 311.

Hassle-Free Charging, Experience Using Lexus Exclusive Charging Point

Lexus Indonesia has launched the Lexus Exclusive Charging Point, a complimentary charging service for electrified vehicle owners at strategic locations such as shopping centres and official dealerships. The service enables efficient battery charging, with a demonstration showing the Lexus NX 450h+ charging from 30 per cent to 80 per cent capacity in approximately one hour, allowing drivers to conduct other activities whilst charging.

Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education and BPS join forces to deliver more accurate education data

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education (Kemendikdasmen) has signed a memorandum of understanding with Indonesia's Central Statistics Agency (BPS) to strengthen the accuracy and updating of national education data. The collaboration aims to establish a unified national education data system through periodic census-style surveys, ensuring all education policies are based on valid and current data.

Pakistan launches air strikes on several Afghan provinces

Pakistan has conducted air strikes against multiple provinces in Afghanistan—Kabul, Kandahar, and Paktia—with Afghan government officials reporting no casualties, whilst Pakistani authorities claim 133 Taliban fighters have been killed along with significant military equipment destroyed.

Gala Premiere of Timun Mas Theme Song, Culture Minister Promotes Folk Tales Globally

Indonesia's Culture Minister Fadli Zon attended the gala premiere of the theme song for the musical family film "Timun Mas in Wonderland," praising the production for drawing inspiration from Indonesian folk tales and contributing to national cultural advancement. The initiative aims to inspire Indonesian children that local stories rival international narratives, whilst developing the creative economy and positioning Indonesian cultural products for global audiences.

Complete List of Judge's Verdicts for Nine Defendants in Oil Case: 9-15 Years Imprisonment

A Jakarta special corruption court has sentenced nine defendants in a major crude oil and refinery product corruption case involving state-owned PT Pertamina, its subsidiaries and cooperating contractors (KKKS) during 2018-2023. The verdicts, handed down in three clusters, range from 9 to 15 years imprisonment, with fines of Rp1 billion each and additional compensation payments of up to Rp2.9 trillion for those convicted of the most serious offences.

Factors Weighing Against Riza Chalid's Son Result in 15-Year Prison Sentence

Muhammad Kerry Adrianto Riza, son of businessman Riza Chalid, has been sentenced to 15 years imprisonment for corruption involving crude oil governance by the Jakarta Corruption Court. The court found him guilty of collective corruption based on the primary charge, imposing a 1 billion rupiah fine and requiring restitution of 2.9 trillion rupiah.

DKI High Prosecutor's Office Investigates Alleged PLN Indonesia Power Corruption, Raids Three Locations

The Jakarta High Prosecutor's Office (Kejati DKI) has conducted raids on three locations in Jakarta and Depok as part of an investigation into alleged corruption involving markup fraud in the migration of Suralaya Unit 3 power generation from 500 kV to 150 kV at PT PLN Indonesia Power in fiscal year 2024. The project, valued at approximately IDR 219.2 billion, was contracted to PT High Voltage Technology for IDR 177.

Over-Application of Law in Case of Casual Teacher in Probolinggo

Mohammad Hisabul Huda, a casual teacher and village accompanist in Probolinggo, East Java, has been named a suspect in a corruption case for receiving dual salaries from state funds over five years. Criminal law experts argue the case exemplifies an over-application of criminal law beyond its intended scope, questioning whether administrative errors should automatically trigger corruption charges under Indonesia's new Criminal Code.

Survey: Buy Now, Pay Later Increasingly Popular Among Gen Z and Millennials, Banks Face Loyalty Challenges

A Deloitte Center for Financial Services survey reveals that Gen Z and millennial consumers display remarkably similar digital banking behaviours, increasingly viewing financial services not as exclusive relationships with single providers but as integrated digital ecosystems.

Bocimi and Japek 2 Toll Roads Prepared for Eid Holiday Travel Surge

West Java Police have announced preparations for the Bogor-Ciawi-Sukabumi (Bocimi) and Jakarta-Cikampek (Japek) 2 toll roads to handle the expected surge in traffic during the Eid holiday exodus and return in 1447 Hijriyah. Authorities are coordinating efforts to ensure adequate infrastructure including lighting, rest areas and fuel stations, with a national coordination meeting scheduled for 2 March, and regional heads have committed to maintaining smooth provincial roads throughout the period.

Shipping Stock Momentum Slows Again: Time to Buy or Sell?

Shares in Indonesian shipping and LNG transport companies have entered a correction phase despite strong fundamentals, with most sector stocks declining between 1.87% and 11.90% over the past week. The pullback appears driven by short-term profit-taking and macroeconomic uncertainties rather than deteriorating fundamentals, as the global tanker sector remains in a super-cycle supported by geopolitical tensions, rerouting demands, and surging charter rates for very-large crude carriers.

Reckless Driver in Central Jakarta Claims Possession of Sister's Vehicle as Police Deepen Investigation

Police arrested a 25-year-old man driving a Toyota Calya that was involved in dangerous driving incidents and collisions in Gunung Sahari, Central Jakarta. The suspect claims the vehicle belongs to his sister and police discovered four number plates, sharp weapons, and a toy firearm in the car, which are now under further investigation.

Sukadame-Kubangkondang Road Completed, Residents Urged to Maintain Village Infrastructure

Banten Governor Andra Soni inaugurated the completion of a 1.4-kilometre concrete road in Sukadame-Kubangkondang, Pandeglang Regency, built under the provincial Build Prosperous Village Roads (Bang Andra) programme to improve local economic activity.

Google plans to integrate Nano Banana into Maps application

Google is reportedly planning to integrate its AI-powered Nano Banana image generator and editor tool into Google Maps, according to code discovered in the latest version of the mapping application. The integration could allow users to generate stylised images of real-world locations based on user requests, representing a unique application of Google's generative AI technology.

Positioning the Police within Democracy

The article examines the constitutional and philosophical foundations for the Indonesian National Police (Polri) remaining under direct presidential authority rather than being placed under a ministry, arguing that the police exercise the state's coercive power and must maintain clear command structures within a democratic framework.

Private Employee Holiday Allowance Subject to Tax: Here's How It's Calculated

The Indonesian Labour Ministry has reminded private employers to pay the annual holiday allowance (THR) to workers by 7 March 2026, which is subject to income tax under Article 21 of the tax code. The government has implemented a more structured effective tax rate (TER) system based on annual income to ensure fairer and more proportional taxation, preventing lower-income workers from bearing excessive tax burdens due to the additional THR payment.

Democratic Party Examines Parliamentary Threshold Levels

The Democratic Party is studying the appropriate parliamentary threshold level for the 2029 elections, guided by Constitutional Court rulings. The party's general secretary stated that the threshold must balance competing concerns: higher thresholds risk wasted votes, whilst eliminating thresholds entirely could lead to extreme multi-party instability.

Truck Collides with Busway Separator on Letjen S Parman Road, Traffic Congestion Ensues

An orange truck collided with a Transjakarta busway separator on Jalan Letjen S. Parman in West Jakarta on Friday morning, 27 February 2026, with its front right tyre becoming lodged on the concrete barrier. Although Transjakarta bus services continued to operate at reduced speed, traffic congestion occurred in the area as motorcycles and cars were forced to use a single rightmost lane. Recovery crews from Transjakarta were deployed to extract and evacuate the vehicle.

Administrative Sanctions Against PT Bahtera Tullus Karya for Illegal Placement of Indonesian Migrant Workers to Middle East

The Indonesian Ministry for the Protection of Migrant Workers (KP2MI) has imposed administrative sanctions including a temporary suspension of operations against PT Bahtera Tullus Karya for multiple violations in the placement of Indonesian migrant workers.

Five Documents from the IKN Project Must Be Released After the Supreme Court Rules in Favour of JATAM

Indonesia's Supreme Court has rejected the Ministry of Public Works and Housing's (PUPR) appeal in a public information dispute brought by the Mining Advocacy Network (JATAM), ordering the ministry to release five previously classified documents related to projects in the new capital city Nusantara (IKN).

Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education Mobilises Collaboration to Succeed Indonesia Talent Scholarship

The Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education has launched the Indonesia Talent Scholarship (BTI) programme in collaboration with the National Student Loan Corporation, emphasising that ecosystem-wide collaboration is essential to its success. The programme targets high-achieving students who have excelled in national and international talent competitions, offering scholarship support at degree and diploma level as part of a broader National Talent Management system.

Why Has Strict Parenting Gone Out of Favour? Psychologist Explains the Shift in Child-Rearing Norms

A clinical psychologist at DR Oen Solo Baru Hospital explains how parenting styles have dramatically shifted from authoritarian and physically punitive methods to approaches emphasising emotional attachment and open communication. The change reflects broader shifts in social norms, wider access to parenting information, and evolving economic and family circumstances that make harsh discipline less prevalent than in previous generations.

Muslim Nation Attacks Asia's Nuclear Giant, Strikes Military Sites

The Taliban authorities have launched large-scale retaliatory attacks against Pakistani military positions along their shared border in response to Pakistan's earlier airstrikes, with claims of casualties and captured positions. Pakistan has denied losing any military posts and claims to have inflicted heavy casualties on Taliban forces. Analysts warn that the porous border and Afghanistan's reluctance to crack down on anti-Pakistan militant groups threaten to escalate the conflict further.

OJK: Credit Interest Rates Have Declined

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) reports that bank credit interest rates have fallen significantly to approximately 8 per cent from above 9 per cent previously, representing a decline of some 40 basis points. The OJK attributes this decline to increased liquidity from government funding placement of Rp200 trillion into the banking system and the discontinuation of special interest rate practices, which should stimulate loan demand and economic growth.

Import of 105,000 Pickup Trucks from India Raises Questions about Domestic Automotive Industry Readiness

Indonesia's Cooperative Minister Ferry Juliantono has acknowledged plans to import 105,000 pickup trucks from India for the village cooperative programme (KDKMP), stating that the domestic automotive industry cannot meet the demand. PT Agrinas Pangan Nusantara claims it conducted extensive negotiations with local manufacturers but found they could only supply tens of thousands of units and charged per-unit rather than bulk prices, prompting the decision to source from India at lower cost.

Firecracker Explosions in 6 Central Java Cities Injure 12 People; Police Arrest 36 Firecracker Manufacturers

Central Java Police have arrested 36 suspects involved in the manufacture and distribution of illegal firecrackers across the region as part of Operation Pekat Candi 2026 ahead of Eid al-Fitr 2026. Six explosion incidents in Boyolali, Grobogan, Kendal, Banjarnegara, Wonosobo, and Pekalongan City have resulted in 12 injuries, with some victims themselves suspected of being firecracker manufacturers at the time of the incidents.

Kia secures hundreds of vehicle orders throughout IIMS 2026

Kia Sales Indonesia secured hundreds of vehicle orders at IIMS 2026, with The All New Carens driving strong customer demand and positive market reception. The company also won two awards for its PV5 concept car and EV9 electric SUV, signalling the success of its product strategy and electrification efforts in Indonesia.

Cyber Experts Support Police Investigation into Fake e-Ticket Scam with Massive Victim Numbers

The Indonesian National Police's Cyber Crime Directorate has dismantled an organised SMS phishing scam impersonating the official e-ticket system, controlled by two Chinese nationals, with five suspects arrested and authorities pursuing the mastermind. Cybersecurity experts emphasise the case's significance for protecting public digital confidence and supporting Indonesia's digitalisation agenda.

Red and White Cooperatives Positioned to Boost Motorcycle Fleet Sales

PT Astra Honda Motor is preparing to support the government's vehicle procurement programme for Red and White Cooperatives (Koperasi Merah Putih), with motorcycles included as part of the fleet distribution scheme alongside trucks and vans. The company's Marketing Director emphasised readiness to supply various motorcycle models and ensure comprehensive after-sales support, though actual orders have not yet materialised.

Google Tightens Grip as Free YouTube Workarounds Cease to Work

Google has closed a longstanding loophole that allowed free YouTube users to access background playback—a feature exclusively designed for YouTube Premium subscribers—through third-party browsers such as Samsung Internet, Brave, Vivaldi, and Microsoft Edge. Following an influx of user reports, the company has implemented an update to enforce consistent access controls across all platforms, preventing unpaid users from bypassing the subscription paywall through unofficial channels.

Shares Entering Foreign Sell Radar, BBCA Remains a Subscriber

Foreign investors recorded significant selling activity across several Indonesian stocks on 26 February 2026, despite overall net foreign buying of Rp 341.3 billion, with profit-taking driving sales in previously strong performers. Bank Central Asia (BBCA) led regular market sell-offs with Rp 149.7 billion in foreign selling, whilst Bakrie & Brothers (BNBR) experienced the largest net foreign sell of Rp 431.8 billion on the negotiated market. The Composite Stock Price Index (IHSG) closed 1.

Maxim Research: Age Group 26–40 Years Most Frequent Ride-Hailing Users

Maxim Indonesia's 2025 mobility trend report reveals that users aged 26–40 years dominate the ride-hailing service across more than 400 Indonesian cities, accounting for 50 per cent of total bookings nationally. The productive age group's dominance reflects the service's critical role in supporting work-related commuting, education, and daily mobility needs across the nation.

Government Prepares Regulations to Extend Home Loan Terms to 30 Years

The Indonesian Ministry of Housing and Settlement Areas is developing a policy to extend subsidised home loan (KPR) tenors from the current maximum of 15-20 years to 30 years, aimed at reducing monthly instalments and expanding homeownership access for low and middle-income earners.