Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 28 February 2026

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Preserving City Aesthetics: Jakarta Municipality Beautifies Dozens of Bridges in Matraman

Jakarta's Matraman District authorities have repainted 21 bridges to date as part of efforts to maintain city aesthetics and preserve infrastructure quality, with completion targeted by mid-March 2026. The repainting initiative, which commenced in early January 2026, involves regular maintenance to protect bridge structures from weather damage whilst ensuring safe passage for residents using these vital inter-neighbourhood connectors.

Transport Minister Dudy Cites Unpredictable Weather as Challenge for 2026 Mudik

Indonesia's Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi has warned residents of West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) to prioritise safety during the 2026 Lebaran mudik (mass exodus) due to unpredictable weather patterns, with forecasts indicating potential rainfall until April.

The Legacy of Ustadz Jazir: Jogokariyan Mosque Management Becomes Islamic Economics Inspiration

The Islamic Economics Society of Yogyakarta Special Region has cited the management model of Jogokariyan Mosque, pioneered by the late Muhammad Jazir ASP, as an inspiration for community-based Islamic economic development.

Deputy Head of PRR Task Force Inspects Central Tapanuli, Pushes Acceleration of Sabo Dams and Bridge Construction

The Deputy Head of the Post-Flood Sumatra Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Task Force (Satgas PRR), Richard Tampubolon, conducted a field inspection to Central Tapanuli on 26 February 2026 to assess flood recovery efforts and coordinate reconstruction priorities.

Government Raises Export Duty and Levy on Crude Palm Oil in March by 20.40 US Dollars

The Indonesian government has increased the export duty and levy on crude palm oil (CPO) for March 2026, with the export levy rising by US$20.40 per metric tonne to a new reference price of US$938.87 per metric tonne, driven by increased demand from major importers such as India and China. Conversely, cocoa bean reference prices fell significantly by 29.21 per cent, resulting in a corresponding decline in export benchmark prices as supply constraints from drought-affected producing nations ease.

Tecno Unveils Modular Smartphone with Detachable Camera and Power Bank

Tecno, a Chinese smartphone manufacturer, will showcase a prototype modular phone at Mobile World Congress Barcelona 2025 featuring innovative Modular Magnetic Interconnection Technology that allows users to independently attach and detach additional components. The Tecno Modular Phone enables users to add extra power banks to double battery life, telephoto lenses, action cameras, and gaming controllers through a precision magnet system, whilst maintaining a slim 4.

Free Homecoming Registration Link East Java Provincial Government 2026: Complete with Schedule and Quota

The East Java Provincial Government's Transportation Office is launching a free homecoming (mudik) programme for 2026, offering free bus and ship travel to reduce private vehicle usage and road accidents. Online registration opens from 2-5 March 2026 through designated websites, with 11,000 bus tickets and 200 motorcycle slots available for residents travelling within and outside East Java.

Indonesia Stock Exchange Daily Transaction Value Rises 25.35 Percent Over the Week

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (BEI) reported a 25.35 percent increase in average daily transaction value to Rp 29.52 trillion during the week of 23-27 February 2026, compared to Rp 23.89 trillion the previous week, alongside an 8.55 percent rise in average daily trading volume. The composite index (IHSG) declined modestly by 0.44 percent to 8,235.485, whilst market capitalisation fell 1.03 percent to Rp 14.787 trillion.

Video: If Nickel Production Quota is Limited, Smelters are "Forced" to Import

Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources has reduced nickel and coal production quotas in its 2026 Work Plan and Budget to stabilise commodity prices, with nickel production capped at 250-270 million tonnes compared to 379 million tonnes in 2025.

Check Again: Requirements for Purchasing Subsidised Housing in 2026

Subsidised housing for low-income households in Indonesia will maintain 2025 price levels into 2026, with no increases across five regional zones, according to BP Tapera commissioner Heru Pudyo Nugroho. Prospective buyers can access these properties through the KPR FLPP programme by downloading the SIKASEP/Tapera Mobile application to select homes and participating banks.

Condom Wrappers and Liquor Bottles Found in Cawang City Park

Cawang City Park in East Jakarta has become the focus of concern following suspected illicit activities at night, with authorities discovering condom wrappers, used lubricant gel, and alcohol bottles scattered throughout the grounds. The East Jakarta Municipal Government has taken action by sealing off unauthorised entry points with concrete barriers and installing high-intensity lighting to increase visibility and deter such activities.

What is Operation Lion's Roar? Details of Israel-US Air Strike Targets at the Heart of Iran

Israel has officially announced a major military operation against Iran codenamed "Lion's Roar" (Auman Singa), with air strikes targeting government officials' residences, military leadership, defence ministry installations, intelligence headquarters, and presidential facilities. The operation also includes coordinated cyber attacks that have disrupted Iran's digital infrastructure and media outlets.

Karawang Subsurface Surveyed for Active Fault Lines

Indonesia's Geological Survey Agency under the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources is conducting preliminary mapping surveys in Karawang to identify active fault lines that could pose seismic risks. The regional area is influenced by the Baribis Thrust Fault system, part of Java's back-arc thrust mechanism, and seismic data indicates earthquake activity distributed across multiple structural pathways rather than a single fault.

Jakarta Ramadan Festival Features Decorative Lights and Marawis Music Around HI Roundabout

The Jakarta Provincial Government has launched the Jakarta Ramadan Festival, scheduled to run until 31 March 2026, featuring religious, cultural, entertainment, and shopping activities across the city.

Coordinating Minister for People's Empowerment Urges Mental Health as Strategic National Agenda

Coordinating Minister for People's Empowerment A. Muhaimin Iskandar has called for mental health to be prioritised as a strategic national agenda, citing recent tragic incidents including child and adolescent suicides. The Health Ministry estimates approximately 28 million Indonesians face mental health challenges linked to structural poverty, weakened social cohesion, and inadequate psychosocial support, prompting calls for comprehensive systemic reforms across government and civil society.

Toyota Yaris and Yaris Cross 2026 Updated with New Technology

Toyota has confirmed that its 2026 Yaris and Yaris Cross models will receive significant interior upgrades, including larger 10.5-inch infotainment screens (up from 8 inches) on higher trim levels, electronic parking brakes with hold function, and a front centre armrest with storage. The vehicles continue to be powered by a 1.

US and Israel Attack Khamenei's Sanctuary

The United States and Israel launched coordinated military strikes against Iran on Saturday, reportedly targeting locations where Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei may have been sheltering. US involvement in the strikes is said to be aimed at decapitating the Iranian regime, with attacks concentrated on areas where Khamenei was believed to be, though it remains unclear whether the 86-year-old leader was present at the time.

Ibas Emphasises the Importance of Mutual Assistance in the National Health Insurance System for SME Operators

Vice Chair of Indonesia's People's Consultative Assembly Edhie Baskoro Yudhoyono (Ibas) has emphasised the importance of strengthening the spirit of mutual assistance (gotong royong) within the National Health Insurance (JKN) system, particularly for small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

NOC Indonesia to Oversee Investigation into Alleged Sexual Harassment at FPTI

Indonesia's National Olympic Committee (NOC Indonesia) has pledged to oversee an ongoing investigation into allegations of physical violence and sexual harassment at the sport climbing national training centre (pelatnas). The NOC emphasised that all forms of violence, harassment, and intimidation are intolerable and contrary to Olympic values, whilst reaffirming its commitment to athlete protection through its Safeguarding programme implemented since 2024.

West Jakarta verifies data of 802 free mudik participants from DKI Provincial Government

West Jakarta's Land Transport Division has completed verification of 802 candidates eligible for the DKI Jakarta Provincial Government's free mudik (homecoming) programme, with departures scheduled for 16-17 March 2026. The verification process, which ran in clusters between 25 February and 2 March 2026, covered participants heading to seven destinations in the first cluster and seven additional destinations in the second cluster.

Disbursement of Retirement Benefits for Civil Servants 2026: When Will Payment Be Made?

As of late February 2026, the Indonesian government has yet to issue the necessary regulation governing the disbursement of retirement allowances (THR) for retired civil servants, military personnel, and police officers ahead of Eid al-Fitr 1447 H. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa signalled that payments are expected to commence in early Ramadan from a Rp 55 trillion budget allocation for approximately 10.

Combined Authorities Shut Down 18 Illegal Mining Pits in Nanggung, Bogor

Combined law enforcement authorities conducted an operation to shut down 18 unlicensed mining sites in Nanggung District, Bogor, West Java on 27 February 2026. The illegal mining pits (PETI) were located across four villages—Bantar Karet, Curug Bitung, Cisarua, and Pangkal Jaya—and were dismantled by two teams of approximately 40 personnel each.

US-Israel Strike Reportedly Targets Ayatollah Khamenei's Office in Tehran

The United States and Israel conducted a coordinated large-scale military operation against Iranian strategic assets early on Saturday, 28 February 2026, with strikes targeting government infrastructure and military installations across Tehran. According to Israeli and Saudi media reports, one strike was aimed near Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's office, though sources confirmed he had been relocated to a safe location prior to the attacks.

Glimpse into China's 4,000-hectare blueberry plantation now dominating Southeast Asian market

China's Mengzi City in Yunnan Province has transformed its blueberry industry from small-scale individual farming to large-scale commercial cultivation, with cultivation areas now reaching approximately 4,666 hectares. The region's blueberry production is exported to Malaysia, Thailand, and Singapore, establishing significant market presence across Southeast Asia.

Attorney General Files Appeal against Nine Defendants' Verdict in Crude Oil Corruption Case

Indonesia's Attorney General has filed an appeal against the conviction of nine defendants in a major crude oil management corruption case involving PT Pertamina. The case involves high-ranking Pertamina officials and associated companies allegedly involved in self-enrichment resulting in state losses of approximately 285.18 trillion rupiah. One judge issued a dissenting opinion questioning whether evidence of state financial harm was adequately proven.

Creative Economy Growth in East Java Set to Accelerate

The chairman of the East Java branch of the National Creative Economy Movement (Gekrafs), Rian Septrianto Maulana, has expressed optimism that creative economy growth in the region will accelerate significantly in the coming period.

Bekasi Chicken Noodle Entrepreneur Claims Defrauded by Influencer over Rp 1 Million Endorsement Deal

A 26-year-old chicken noodle and meatball entrepreneur in Bekasi, West Java, has accused an Instagram influencer of fraud after allegedly failing to deliver on a Rp 1 million (approximately £50) promotional agreement for his business's grand opening. The case gained public attention after the entrepreneur shared his experience on Threads, which went viral, highlighting potential consumer protection issues in influencer marketing arrangements within Indonesia's informal economy.

Governor: Housing improvements prioritised to reduce poverty rates

Central Sulawesi Governor Anwar Hafid has declared that upgrading substandard housing (RTLH) to meet liveable standards is the primary priority for reducing poverty, particularly in Donggala Regency. The governor called for local authorities to verify and validate data to identify families living in inadequate housing as a basis for poverty alleviation intervention programmes.

Ministry of Trade: Cocoa Bean Reference Price Plummets 29 Per Cent

Indonesia's Ministry of Trade has announced that the reference price for cocoa beans in March 2026 has fallen to USD 4,047.45 per metric tonne, representing a 29.21 per cent decline due to weak demand that has not been offset by increased supply from major producing nations such as Côte d'Ivoire. The corresponding export reference price for cocoa beans has dropped 30.44 per cent to USD 3,722 per metric tonne, whilst the export levy remains at 7.5 per cent as specified in relevant regulations.

Indonesia to fast-track protected rice field programme from March 2026

Indonesia is accelerating its protected rice field programme, set to commence in March 2026. This initiative aims to safeguard agricultural land and ensure sustainable rice production to support national food security.

Acceleration of protected rice field designation begins in March 2026; check 12 target provinces

The Indonesian government is accelerating the designation of protected rice field land (LSD) across 12 provinces including Jambi, West Kalimantan, and South Sulawesi beginning in early March 2026, with 17 additional provinces to follow by the end of June 2026. This initiative implements Presidential Regulation Number 4 of 2026 on controlling the conversion of rice field land, a critical measure to preserve agricultural productivity and food security.

Taking Calculated Risks: UNM Student Leverages Digital Business Campus to Drive Entrepreneurial Success

Muhamad Naufal Amirul Ma'arif, a Data Science student at Universitas Nusa Mandiri (UNM), exemplifies how young entrepreneurs can balance academic pursuits with high-risk business ventures. Operating ZAMA AUTO SPORT whilst maintaining strict academic discipline, Naufal credits UNM's accommodating environment for allowing him to pursue entrepreneurship without compromising his studies.

Trump Confirms US Joins Israel in Attack on Iran, Seeks to Overthrow Khamenei Regime

US President Donald Trump has confirmed that combined US-Israeli military operations against Iran aim to eliminate threats posed by the Iranian regime and protect American citizens. Iran has confirmed Israeli airstrikes on Tehran on 28 February 2026 and is reportedly preparing a devastating counterattack, with Iranian officials warning the US and Israel of serious consequences for initiating military conflict.

Zamzam Water Thriving at Tanah Abang Market, Supplied by Cabin Crew

Sales of Zamzam water continue to flourish at Jakarta's Tanah Abang Market despite Saudi Arabia's restrictions on official exports abroad, with traders charging around 500,000 rupiahs per five-litre container. Supply routes have diversified to include umrah pilgrims, specialised importers, and airline cabin crew, as stricter regulations now prevent informal transport of the sanctified water from Mecca.

National Nutrition Agency Halts Operations of 47 Nutrition Service Units Until Day 9 of Ramadan to Maintain Free Nutritious Meal Quality

Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has temporarily suspended operations of 47 Nutrition Service Units (SPPG) until the 9th day of Ramadan following repeated findings that the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme failed to meet quality and safety standards. The suspension is part of strict quality control measures affecting kitchen management, distribution chains, and quality control procedures.

Israel and US Strike Iran: What Is the Impact on Gold Prices?

Israel and the US launched military strikes against Iran on 28 February 2026, with missiles reportedly hitting Tehran's university and Jomhouri districts. Gold prices remain stable and elevated, buoyed by uncertainty over US tariff policies and geopolitical tensions between Washington and Tehran, with spot gold trading at $5,181.18 per ounce and having gained 58 per cent over the past seven months.

Supporting "WED 2026", Pram invites representatives from 32 nations for joint breaking of fast

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has pledged full support for the World Engineering Day (WED) 2026, to be held in Jakarta on 3-5 March 2026, with delegates from 32 countries attending. The Governor will host a welcome reception and joint breaking of fast for approximately 600 participants at the Grand Hall of Jakarta City Hall Complex on 3 March.

Yamaha Claims Rising Sales Despite Holding Second Position in Market

Yamaha Indonesia maintains its second-place position in the national motorcycle market with around 78 per cent market share held by market leader Honda, whilst the manufacturer claims year-on-year sales growth throughout 2025. The company's manager stated that its position as a challenger motivates continued product quality improvements, with the Maxi scooter series—particularly the NMAX model—serving as the backbone of sales performance.

BPH Migas Safeguards Energy Supply with Spirit of Cooperation During Ramadhan

Indonesia's downstream oil and gas regulator BPH Migas has committed to ensuring stable energy distribution nationwide, particularly during the Ramadhan and Eid al-Fitr period (1447 Hijriah/2026), emphasising collaborative efforts among stakeholders. Head of BPH Migas Wahyudi Anas stated that the regulator's role extends beyond oversight to building synergy with all interested parties to maintain continuous fuel and natural gas distribution across the country's remotest regions.

Strategic Indonesia-Germany Partnership: 4,000 Skilled Workers Supported by Vocational Industry Ecosystem

Indonesia and Germany have formalised a strategic partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding to place up to 4,000 skilled Indonesian workers in Germany and other German-speaking countries across hospitality, retail, manufacturing, and related industrial services.

UMKM in North Sumatra Exports 9 Tonnes of Banana Crisps to Malaysia

An UMKM from North Sumatra named Archilla has exported 9 tonnes of banana kepok crisps valued at Rp 270 million to Malaysia, with Trade Minister Budi Santoso overseeing the shipment. The export demonstrates the competitiveness of regional SMEs and reflects the government's BISA Ekspor programme, which has facilitated approximately 1,200 SMEs in international market access, generating transactions worth US$134.8 million in 2025.

Residents Renew Protest Against Crematorium Project in West Jakarta

Residents of Kalideres, West Jakarta held a second mass protest on Saturday against the construction of a funeral home and crematorium on Jalan Utan Jati, demanding permanent suspension of the project. Residents claim the project violates local regulations as it is being built in a densely populated residential area and that required environmental impact assessments have not been completed despite building permits being issued.

Bulog Director Conducts Surprise Inspection of Three Markets in Semarang, Ensures Rice and Meat Prices Comply with Government Ceiling

Perum Bulog's Director Ahmad Rizal Ramdhani conducted surprise price inspections across three major traditional markets in Semarang to ensure stable supply and pricing of essential commodities during Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijriah.

PT Pupuk Kaltim-Mentored UMKM Wins TOP 50 Cooperatives and SME Export Award 2026

Sekatup Sari Indonesia, a small and medium-sized enterprise (UMKM) supported by PT Pupuk Kalimantan Timur, has won the TOP 50 Cooperatives & SME Export Award 2026 with GREAT status in the Food and Beverage and Apparel categories. The award, organised by Peluang Media Group in collaboration with the Ministry of Cooperatives and Ministry of SMEs, recognises enterprises that have successfully penetrated global markets.

Machine Learning in Data-Driven Industrial Transformation

Machine Learning has become a fundamental technology in industrial digital transformation, enabling companies to process large datasets for accurate predictions and improved decision-making across manufacturing, agriculture, and healthcare sectors.

Said Abdullah: Parliament Approves Free Nutritious Meal Programme Budget, Governance Needs Improvement

Head of Parliament's Budget Commission Said Abdullah confirms that all parliamentary factions have unanimously approved the 2025 and 2026 state budgets, including allocations for the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme drawn from education funding. While supporting the programme's noble objective of improving child nutrition, Abdullah notes that governance and implementation mechanisms require improvement to achieve President Prabowo Subianto's intended nutritional intervention goals.

National Lunar New Year Celebration Peak at Banteng Field; 750 Police Personnel on Standby

Jakarta police have deployed 750 personnel to secure the peak celebration of the national Lunar New Year festival at Banteng Field on 28 February 2026, which will be attended by President Prabowo Subianto. The event, themed "Harmoni Imlek Nusantara" (Lunar New Year Harmony of the Archipelago), is being billed as Indonesia's first national Lunar New Year festival held in public space and coinciding with Ramadhan, featuring cultural performances, local brand bazaars, and dining facilities.

DIY Regional Government Prepares Disembarkation System for Hajj Pilgrims at YIA

The Yogyakarta Special Region government is developing a streamlined disembarkation scheme for hajj pilgrims returning through Yogyakarta International Airport (YIA), aimed at eliminating multiple bus transfers and improving comfort for elderly passengers. The scheme seeks to allow pilgrims to proceed directly from immigration clearance to regional transportation without vehicle changes, though airport operational regulations and restricted airside areas present implementation challenges.

PLN Offers Power Increase Promotion Through PLN Mobile

PT PLN (Persero) has launched a "Bright Ramadan, Peaceful Eid" promotional programme offering 50 per cent discounts on power connection charges for low-voltage single-phase customers increasing their electricity capacity during Ramadan 2026. The promotion, available from 25 February to 10 March 2026 through the PLN Mobile application, aims to support customers' increased electricity demand during the Islamic holy month and reduce the financial burden of capacity upgrades.

Iran Closes Airspace Following Joint US-Israel Military Operations

Iran's Civil Aviation Authority has officially closed the country's entire airspace indefinitely following escalated military operations involving joint US-Israeli attacks on Iranian territory on 28 February 2026. The closure, which has grounded all commercial flights and banned foreign aircraft, comes despite intensive diplomatic efforts by Oman's Foreign Minister to mediate tensions between Tehran and Washington over the preceding 12 hours.

Friedrich Silaban: The Pastor's Son Who Designed the Istiqlal Mosque

Friedrich Silaban, a Christian architect, designed the Istiqlal Mosque, now the world's sixth-largest mosque and a monumental architectural achievement in Indonesia. Despite his Christian faith, Silaban meticulously studied Islamic dome and minaret designs, worship practices, and major mosques worldwide for three months to create the perfect design.

Indonesia Hopes to Conclude CEPA with United Kingdom

Indonesia is seeking to conclude a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) with the United Kingdom to strengthen bilateral trade and sustain growth. Deputy Trade Minister Dyah Roro Esti Widya Putri urged Indonesian businesses to maximise tariff preferences under the current Developing Countries Trading Scheme, whilst future CEPA negotiations are expected to open broader market access and establish a comprehensive long-term cooperation framework.

Toddler Drowns in River After Being Left by Grandmother in Lombok

A toddler aged 1 year and 3 months drowned in a river near his home in Nyiur Lembang Village, West Lombok, after his grandmother briefly left him unattended whilst adjusting a television antenna. The child was found in the river by a nearby resident and transported to a clinic, but was pronounced dead upon arrival; his family declined an autopsy and accepted the incident as a tragedy.

Mitsubishi Prepares 2026 Strategy with Hybrid on Main Agenda

Mitsubishi Motors Krama Yudha Indonesia reported successful market performance in 2025, increasing market share from 8.3 per cent to 8.5 per cent and celebrating 55 years of operations with 2.4 million vehicles in operation across Indonesia. The company showcased strong positioning across its model range, with the new Destinator SUV capturing 53.7 per cent of its segment and achieving 2,400 sales at IIMS 2026, whilst preparing for 2026 with expanded dealer networks and service enhancements.

BGN Temporarily Halts Operations of 47 Free Nutritious Meal Service Units Over Quality Failures

Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has temporarily suspended operations of 47 Nutrition Service Units (SPPG) pending completion of national evaluation in February 2026, following repeated discoveries of substandard meals in the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. The violations, found across three regional jurisdictions, include mouldy bread, rotten fruit infested with maggots, stale side dishes, and raw or spoiled eggs.

Ministry of Trade: CPO Reference Price Rises Driven by Demand from India and China

The Indonesian Ministry of Trade announced that the reference price for crude palm oil (CPO) has increased to $938.87 per metric tonne for March 2026, rising 2.22 per cent from the previous month, driven primarily by increased demand from major importers India and China. The strengthened price reflects limited supply due to declining production and higher prices for competing vegetable oils such as soybean oil.

BPK Reaffirms Commitment to Professionalism in Auditing Financial Reports of OJK and Ministry of Investment/BKPM for 2025

The Indonesian Supreme Audit Board (BPK) has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining professionalism and accountability whilst auditing the 2025 financial reports of the Financial Services Authority (OJK) and the Ministry of Investment and Downstream Processing/Investment Coordination Board (BKPM).

Israel Attacks Iran, US Approves: Beginning of a Major War?

Israel has conducted an air strike on Tehran on 28 February 2026 in what US officials describe as a joint military operation between the United States and Israel, following threats made by President Donald Trump regarding Iran's nuclear programme. The arrival of the US Navy carrier USS Gerald R.

Ramadan Blessing: Tangerang City Police Distribute Iftar and Share Meal with Online Motorcycle Taxi Drivers

The Tangerang City Metro Police conducted a charitable Ramadan initiative by distributing iftar (breaking-of-fast) snacks to road users and online motorcycle taxi drivers in the city. The programme culminated in a communal breaking-of-fast meal at the police headquarters' mosque, attended by approximately 550 people including motorcycle taxi drivers, community policing volunteers and police personnel.

US Producer Inflation Surges 0.5 Per Cent in January, Dampening Interest Rate Cut Expectations

US producer prices rose 0.5 per cent in January 2026, exceeding forecast expectations and driven primarily by service cost increases and expanding business profit margins as companies begin passing import tariff burdens to consumers. The core Producer Price Index climbed 0.8 per cent month-on-month and 3.6 per cent year-on-year, with wholesale margins on professional equipment surging 14.4 per cent—indicating tariff pass-through.

KCI Apprehends Sexual Harassment Perpetrator on Jakarta-Bogor Commuter Line, to Be Blacklisted

PT Kereta Commuter Indonesia (KCI) has apprehended an alleged sexual harasser on the Commuter Line following a viral incident on social media, with the suspect identified through CCTV analytics after returning to the station area.

Developer Served Legal Notice Over Breach of Green Space Conversion Promise in Bumi Panyawangan

Residents of the Pinus Cluster housing complex in Bumi Panyawangan, Cileunyi, Bandung Regency are pursuing legal action against developer PT Dwiputra Sabaraya Kencana for unlawfully converting green open space (RTH) into commercial land without resident consent.

Low immunisation coverage seen as driver of rising measles cases

The head of the Indonesian Paediatricians Association has highlighted that low immunisation coverage remains a primary factor in rising measles cases across Indonesia. With vaccine hesitancy fuelled by misinformation and coverage below herd immunity thresholds, outbreaks can proliferate rapidly; the association emphasises the need for strengthened primary healthcare services, improved nutrition, and early disease detection to prevent further spread.

BGN Reveals 93 Percent Nutrition Budget Distributed to Regions through Partners

Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has announced that 93 percent of its 2026 budget of Rp268 trillion—approximately Rp240 trillion—is allocated directly to the Free Nutritious Meal programme (MBG) and distributed to service units across the country.

Fossils in Amber Reveal Ancient Ant and Parasite Interactions

A morphological study analysing six amber specimens from the Cretaceous, Eocene, and Oligocene periods has revealed evidence of parasitic and commensal relationships between ancient ants and mites, as well as other organisms. The research, representing rare syninclusion occurrences, provides crucial insights into the ecological behaviour and interactions of insects from millions of years ago, including stem ants, crown ants, and the unique "hell ants" group.

Sukabumi Mayor's Bestari Programme Begins to Yield Results, Breaks into Saudi Labour Market

Two Indonesian migrant workers from Sukabumi, West Java have successfully secured employment as professional baristas in Saudi Arabia through the city government's Bestari (Be Stars International) programme, which focuses on skills development and global competitiveness.

Golkar's Rationale for Proposing 5 Per Cent Parliamentary Threshold

Golkar has proposed raising Indonesia's parliamentary threshold from 4 per cent to 5 per cent for the 2029 general election, arguing this combined approach would simplify the multiparty system whilst maintaining political representation.

Afghanistan calls for peaceful dialogue amid clashes with Pakistan

Afghanistan's government has called for resolving its dispute with Pakistan through "dialogue and peace" following the latest border clashes between the two South Asian nations. The Afghan government spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid reported that 13 Afghan soldiers were killed and 22 wounded in the fighting, whilst claiming 55 Pakistani soldiers were killed, as tensions escalated with Pakistani air strikes on Kabul, Kandahar, and other cities.

Fundamental Problem for SMEs is Not Financing, but Import Surge

Indonesia's government targets Rp295 trillion in People's Business Loan (KUR) disbursements in 2026 to boost SME competitiveness, but the UMKM Minister argues the core challenge lies not in financing access but in market disruption from imports. Multiple stakeholders debate whether import controls and banking flexibility, rather than expanded credit alone, are essential to enable SMEs to graduate to the next level economically.

Woman Allegedly Harassed on Jakarta-Bogor Commuter Train Reports Incident to Officials

A passenger on the Jakarta Kota-Bogor Commuter Line reported being sexually harassed whilst aboard the train on 22 January. The alleged perpetrator confessed to the act at Citayam Station, and the victim reported the incident to officials at Cilebut Station. KAI Commuter has urged all passengers to report incidents of harassment and pledged support for victims in pursuing legal action.

National Food Agency conducts surprise inspection on staple prices in East Lombok

Indonesia's National Food Agency (Bapanas) conducted a surprise inspection of staple food prices in East Lombok's traditional markets as part of efforts to prevent price spikes during Ramadan. The inspection found that red chilli prices exceeded the government's Reference Sales Price (HAP) due to supply constraints caused by adverse weather and crop failures, whilst some retailers were selling cooking oil above the Maximum Retail Price (HET).

Cost Efficiency Becomes Key Consideration for Regional Consumers Purchasing Electric Vehicles

Electric vehicle purchasing patterns in Indonesia reveal distinct regional variations, with Jakarta consumers driven primarily by regulation such as odd-even restrictions, whilst regional consumers outside the capital prioritise operational cost savings.

Advocate Marcella Santoso Affirms Patriotism in Rebuttal Before Jakarta Central District Court

Marcella Santoso, a defendant accused of bribery and money laundering related to crude palm oil export facilities, reaffirmed her commitment to Indonesia whilst delivering her rebuttal statement at Jakarta Central District Court on 27 February. She denied allegations that she sought to damage the nation's image and called for adequate protection mechanisms for advocates to work independently, free from judicial mafia practices.

Junior secondary school girl in East Nusa Tenggara killed after resisting sexual assault attempt by teenage perpetrator

A 14-year-old junior secondary school student was brutally murdered by a 16-year-old relative in Sikka regency, East Nusa Tenggara, after refusing his sexual advances. The perpetrator attacked her repeatedly with a machete when she resisted, then attempted to conceal her body before fleeing to Ende regency. The suspect has been arrested and charged under murder and child protection legislation.

Video: Indonesian Shrimp Competes in US-China Markets, Entrepreneurs Have These Strategies

PT Bogatama Marinusa's President Director Tigor Cendarma expressed optimism about expanding Indonesia's shrimp export markets, particularly targeting China and Vietnam amidst rising international demand. However, exporters face diverse regulatory requirements necessitating innovation and technological advancement to successfully penetrate these lucrative markets.

Businesspeople and Influencers Caught Manipulating Share Prices

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has exposed multiple share price manipulation schemes involving social media influencers, corporate executives, and securities firms, imposing billions of rupiah in fines and referring several suspects to prosecutors. The cases span from 2016 to 2022 and involve coordinated trading activity across multiple securities accounts designed to create artificial price movements and mislead retail investors.

Ministry of Transport Opens Free Mudik Registration Tomorrow

The Indonesian Ministry of Transport (Kemenhub) is launching a free mudik (homecoming) programme for Eid al-Fitr this year, offering 401 buses to transport 15,834 passengers from Jakarta and Tangerang to 34 cities across 10 provinces. Online registration opens on 1 March 2026 via the Nusantara portal, with departure services scheduled from 16–18 March for outbound travel and 25 March for return journeys.

UN Human Rights Chief Raises Epstein Case Amid Call for Violence Against Women Accountability

The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, has urged governments worldwide to strengthen accountability for crimes against women, citing systemic failures exposed by cases including the Jeffrey Epstein scandal.

PB GP Parmusi Releases E-Book "Movement of Change Pulse: Young Muslim Archipelago Manifesto for the Future"

The Islamic organisation PB GP Parmusi has officially released an e-book entitled "Gerak Nadi Perubahan: Manifesto Muslim Muda Nusantara di Masa Depan" (Movement of Change Pulse: Young Muslim Archipelago Manifesto for the Future), which articulates the strategic positioning of young Muslim generations within contemporary social, political, and civilisational change.

Pakistani Fighter Jet Shot Down in Afghanistan, Pilot Captured

A Pakistani fighter jet was shot down in Jalalabad, Afghanistan on 28 February 2026, with its pilot captured alive by Afghan authorities. The incident marks an escalation in ongoing cross-border hostilities between Pakistan and Afghanistan, with both nations claiming significant casualties and describing the conflict as "open war."

Israel Strikes Iran, Declares State of Emergency and Closes Airspace

Israel has confirmed conducting military strikes against Iran on Saturday morning, with explosions reported across Tehran. In response, Israel has declared a state of emergency, closed its airspace, and activated sirens nationwide as a precautionary measure against anticipated Iranian drone and missile retaliation.

Tobacco Industry Players Urge Finance Minister to Implement Special Excise Tax Rate for Machine-Rolled Cigarettes

Tobacco industry stakeholders in Madura are pressing Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa to introduce a differentiated excise tax scheme for machine-rolled cigarettes (SKM) at rates between Rp150-250 per stick, positioned above hand-rolled cigarettes to encourage small producers to enter the legal market.

47 Free Nutritious Meal Service Units Temporarily Suspended on Day 9 of Ramadan Over Substandard Food Quality

Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has temporarily suspended 47 nutritious meal service units across three operational regions after repeated discoveries of substandard food items in its Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme, including mouldy bread, rotten fruit, stale dishes, and raw eggs. The agency emphasises that quality control violations will not be tolerated, and suspended units must complete all corrective measures and pass re-verification before resuming operations.

Police Also Arrest Drug Dealer Ko Erwin's Treasurer in Mataram

Indonesian police have arrested Ais, the alleged treasurer of major drug trafficker Erwin bin Iskandar (alias Ko Erwin, 57), in Mataram, West Nusa Tenggara, whilst simultaneously capturing Erwin himself in North Sumatran waters whilst attempting to flee illegally to Malaysia. The operation has uncovered alleged involvement of a former police chief, AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro, who is suspected of receiving approximately 2.8 billion rupiah in proceeds from the drug trafficking network.

Debt Collector Who Stabbed Advocate in Tangerang Arrested While Fleeing on Bus

Police arrested a debt collector identified as JBI who stabbed advocate Bastian Sori in Kelapa Dua, Tangerang. The suspect was apprehended inside a bus at Kalikangkung Toll Road in Semarang, Central Java, whilst attempting to flee. Two other suspects involved in the incident remain at large and under active investigation.

47 Free Nutritious Meal Service Units Suspended by Day 9 of Ramadan Due to Poor Menu Quality

Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency has suspended 47 food service units providing free nutritious meals to students due to repeated quality and safety violations, including mouldy bread, spoiled food, and substandard menu preparation discovered across three regions.

Amid State Duties, Agriculture Minister Amran Remains Active as Lecturer, Assists Tuition Fees for Orphaned Students

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman continues to teach at Hasanuddin University's Faculty of Agriculture whilst managing his ministerial responsibilities, and has directly supported two orphaned female students by providing tuition and living allowance assistance.

Papua Provincial Government Lobbies State-Owned Enterprises Board on Electricity and Free Travel Support

The Papua Provincial Government met with the State-Owned Enterprises Regulatory Board on 27 February to discuss expanding electricity access in disadvantaged, frontier, and outermost regions (3T areas) and supporting free homecoming travel programmes for residents. Governor Mathius Fakhiri expects the meeting to yield concrete steps, including developing cooperation frameworks and mapping priority needs across Papua.

Mining Company Sherly Tjoanda Sanctioned Rp500 Billion, Here's What Forest Enforcement Task Force Says

Indonesia's Forest Enforcement Task Force (Satgas PKH) has responded to reports that PT Karya Wijaya, a mining company owned by North Maluku Governor Sherly Tjoanda, has been handed an administrative fine of Rp500 billion for conducting illegal nickel mining across 51.3 hectares on Gebe Island.

Critical Minerals Must Not Be Wasted: DEN Says Much Potential Still Considered Waste

Indonesia's National Energy Council has highlighted that critical mineral by-products remain underutilised and are often discarded as waste despite their high strategic value for the global energy transition. The head of the council emphasised that advanced processing technology is key to converting what is currently regarded as waste into high-value products that strengthen Indonesia's position in future energy supply chains.

Education and advisory support will impact tax revenue

The Indonesian Tax Consultants Association (IKPI) has stated that proper educational and advisory approaches will directly improve state revenue optimisation from the tax sector. During an audience with Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, IKPI committed to strengthening cooperation with the government to create a healthy, transparent, and fair tax ecosystem, emphasising the strategic role of tax consultants in bridging tax authorities and taxpayers and boosting voluntary compliance.

How AI Queries Affect Energy Consumption Levels

University of Michigan researchers have discovered that the type of query submitted to artificial intelligence systems significantly impacts energy consumption, with reasoning tasks consuming up to 25 times more electricity than casual conversations. The study measured 46 AI models across seven task types, finding that video generation consumes over 100 times more power than image generation, with the inference stage accounting for 80–90 per cent of total computing energy in the AI economy.

BGN Clarifies MBG Fund Allocation, Rp500 Million Distributed Every 12 Days

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has clarified that the Free Nutritious Meals Programme (MBG) allocates approximately Rp500 million every twelve days to each Nutrition Service Unit (SPPG), correcting earlier reports that suggested daily disbursement.

Global Debt Hits Record $348 Trillion, Government Spending Is the Culprit

Global debt surged to a record $348 trillion in December 2025, marking the fastest annual increase since the pandemic with an 8.9% rise, driven primarily by government spending across the United States, China, and Europe. Government debt alone accounts for $106.7 trillion, whilst the shift from private to public debt increases sensitivity to interest rate changes and investor confidence.

BPK Emphasises Professionalism in Auditing OJK and BKPM Financial Reports 2025

The State Audit Board (BPK) has commenced audits of the 2025 financial reports of the Financial Services Authority (OJK) and the Ministry of Investment and Downstream Processing/Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM), with BPK Member II Daniel Lumban Tobing emphasising strict adherence to professional ethics and risk-based audit methodologies.

DEN: Mineral Downstream Processing Cannot Stop at Smelter Stage

Indonesia's National Energy Council chair Satya Yudha has emphasised that the nation's mineral downstream processing agenda must extend beyond intermediate products like aluminium ingots and nickel matte to reach final-stage industries to generate genuine added value and strengthen energy sovereignty.

Survey: 57 per cent of Americans support independent Palestinian state

A Gallup poll reveals that 57 per cent of Americans support Palestinian independence, marking a significant shift in American public opinion on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict compared to previous years. The survey shows notable partisan divisions, with 65 per cent of Democrats expressing sympathy for Palestine whilst 70 per cent of Republicans favour Israel, though Republican support for Israel has declined by 10 percentage points since 2024 to its lowest level since 2004.

BGN: Rp500 million allocation per 12 days for each Nutritional Service Unit

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has clarified that each Nutritional Service Unit (SPPG) receives an allocation of approximately Rp500 million every 12 days for the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme.

Information on BGN PPPK Stage 3 Recruitment Opening Confirmed as Hoax; Public Urged to Check Official Channels

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has categorically denied reports circulating on social media about the opening of Stage 3 PPPK (Government Employees on Work Agreements) recruitment, clarifying that no such announcement has been issued from official channels.

Cawang City Park Becomes Site of Immoral Activities, Condoms and Alcohol Bottles Discovered

Cawang City Park in East Jakarta has become a location for illicit sexual activities amongst men, with authorities discovering used condoms, lubricants, wet tissues, and alcohol bottles scattered throughout the grounds. Authorities from East Jakarta Municipal Government, working with the Parks and Urban Forestry Division, have sealed off gaps in the park's perimeter fence through which perpetrators reportedly gained unauthorised access at night.

Police to Implement Traffic Management at Lapangan Banteng for Imlek Celebration

The Jakarta Metro Police Traffic Directorate has mobilised 150 traffic personnel and 600 police officers to manage traffic during the Imlek Festival 2577 celebration at Lapangan Banteng on 28 February, with the Vice President of Indonesia expected to attend.

Yamaha Maintains Non-Hybrid 125cc Scooter Line-up Despite Declining Demand

Yamaha is retaining several non-hybrid 125cc scooter models including Mio M3, Fino, X-Ride, FreeGo, and Gear despite market shift towards hybrid variants. The company's hybrid-equipped models such as Gear Ultima, Grand Filano, and Fazzio dominate sales, reflecting consumer preference for improved fuel efficiency technology. Yamaha's dual-strategy approach maintains both conventional and hybrid options to facilitate gradual technological transition whilst preserving its existing customer base.

Security Tightened at Cawang City Park Following Alleged Immoral Activity

The East Jakarta City Government has intensified security measures at Cawang City Park following allegations of immoral conduct among men at the location. Authorities have deployed combined teams from multiple agencies including Civil Police Units, Social Services, and the Makasar District, whilst also implementing physical improvements including trimming dense vegetation and sealing entry gaps used by alleged offenders.

Secondary School Graduates Eligible for Ministry of Labour Vocational Training with Living Allowance

The Indonesian Ministry of Labour is launching the 2026 National Vocational Training Programme targeting secondary school graduates and equivalent qualification holders. Participants receive skills training, transport assistance, workplace injury and death insurance coverage, accommodation where applicable, and a daily living allowance of 20,000 Indonesian Rupiah, with training courses ranging from two weeks to three months across 33 technical implementation units nationwide.

BPH Migas Ensures Safe Fuel Stocks in West Java Throughout Early Ramadan

Indonesia's downstream oil and gas regulator BPH Migas has confirmed that subsidised and compensated fuel stocks in West Java remain safe and well-controlled during the beginning of Ramadan 1447 Hijriah. BPH Migas committee members conducted direct monitoring of fuel stations in Purwakarta, Bandung, and the Cipularang toll road on 26–27 February 2026, verifying fuel availability, quality standards, and services.

BPK Examines Financial Reports of State Institutions in Politics, Law and Security Sector, Focused on Governance Improvement

The Indonesian Audit Board (BPK) is conducting an examination of 2025 financial reports from ministries and institutions in the politics, law, and security sector, prioritising constructive recommendations for governance improvement rather than merely identifying errors.

Before Three Ministers, UAS 'Reminds' of Death

Preacher Ustaz Abdul Somad (UAS) presented his book "35 Stories When Death Beckons" at a Jakarta mosque event attended by three government ministers, including the ministers of higher education, culture, and basic education. The book, compiled during the COVID-19 pandemic, reflects on mortality through the stories of prophets, companions, scholars, and historical figures, drawing from UAS's personal experiences including the loss of his mother and various political challenges.

Officers Detain Four Men at Cawang City Park Suspected of Indecent Activities

Officers from the East Jakarta Parks Authority apprehended four men at Cawang City Park in East Jakarta suspected of engaging in indecent activities. Investigators discovered contraceptive devices, lubricants, and sexual enhancement supplements at the site, prompting authorities to implement security measures including tree trimming, gap sealing, and improved lighting to prevent future incidents.

BPK Emphasises Professionalism in Examination of OJK and BKPM Financial Reports 2025

Indonesia's Financial Audit Agency (BPK) has commenced examinations of the 2025 financial statements for the Financial Services Authority (OJK) and the Ministry of Investment and Industrialization/Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM), emphasising its commitment to professional auditing standards and risk-based approaches.

Jakarta legislator calls on provincial government to halt crematorium projects in West Jakarta

A Jakarta regional parliament member has formally requested Governor Pramono Anung to halt the construction of two crematoria in West Jakarta's Kalideres district, citing local opposition due to their location in densely populated residential areas.

Nagata Bio Energi participates in carbon market through Sukadamai biogas project

PT Nagata Bio Energi, a subsidiary of ABM Investama, has joined Indonesia's carbon trading platform (IDX Carbon) whilst operating the Sukadamai Biogas Project in South Kalimantan, which converts palm oil mill effluent into clean electricity. The project has achieved verified emission reductions of 121,919 tonnes of CO2e between 2021 and 2023, equivalent to the annual emissions of over 8,000 petrol vehicles, contributing significantly to Indonesia's Net Zero Emission 2060 target.

Bank Mandiri: Extension of SAL Fund Placement Strengthens Liquidity, Drives Productive Credit

Bank Mandiri has praised the Ministry of Finance's decision to extend the placement of Saldo Anggaran Lebih (SAL/Budget Balance Surplus) funds in banks until September 2026, stating this will strengthen banking system liquidity and sustain credit distribution to productive sectors. The bank reported positive progress in SAL-funded credit disbursement across 37 provinces, with January 2026 figures showing 15.62% year-on-year credit growth to Rp1.511.

Total Lunar Eclipse on 3 March: Can It Be Seen in Indonesia?

A total lunar eclipse will occur on 3 March 2026 and can be observed from Indonesia, with the peak eclipse visible at 18:33:39 WIB. The eclipse will last approximately 5 hours and 41 minutes in total, with the total eclipse phase lasting 59 minutes and 27 seconds. The phenomenon occurs when the Sun, Earth, and Moon align, causing the Moon to pass through Earth's shadow and appear reddish due to Rayleigh scattering in Earth's atmosphere.

Cambodian Authorities Arrest 81 Scammers; 220,000 Foreign Nationals Flee as Indonesian Citizens Affected

Cambodian police have arrested 81 technology-based scammers operating from Phnom Penh, including 72 Chinese and 9 Myanmar nationals, with approximately 223,610 foreign workers—including Indonesian citizens—voluntarily leaving Cambodia between January and February 2026 to avoid prosecution.

47 Free Nutritious Meal Service Units Temporarily Halted During Ramadan Due to Mouldy and Rotten Food

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has temporarily suspended operations of 47 Nutrition Service Provision Units (SPPG) following repeated findings of substandard free meals, including mouldy bread, rotten fruit infested with maggots, spoilt side dishes, and raw or rotten eggs. The suspensions, distributed across three regional areas, are part of strict quality control measures to protect children's health and maintain government credibility in the Free Nutritious Meal programme.

Government Defence over Free Nutritious Meals Programme Using Education Budget

The Indonesian government has defended its decision to allocate Rp 223.5 trillion for the free nutritious meals (MBG) programme from the education budget in the 2026 state budget, claiming the programme does not reduce educational spending and is constitutionally sound. The opposition Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) has challenged the allocation, arguing it violates the constitutional requirement that education spending comprise 20 per cent of the national budget.

Disaster Response Task Force Accelerates Relocation of Sumatra-Aceh Evacuees Before Eid

Indonesia's Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Acceleration Task Force (Satgas PRR) is targeting the relocation of all remaining evacuees from temporary shelters in Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra to proper housing before Eid al-Fitr 2026. As of 27 February 2026, only 11,307 people remain in emergency tents out of over two million initially affected, with the majority in Aceh.

IKN Authority boosts local businesses to power new Indonesian capital

The IKN Authority is implementing capacity-building initiatives to strengthen local businesses around Indonesia's new capital through skills enhancement, market access expansion, and the Creative Business Marketing Packaging Profitable (KUMPUL Lagi) programme. The programme provides training in product development, branding, packaging design, intellectual property registration, and contemporary sales techniques, whilst inviting experienced business practitioners to share their expertise.

China's manned space programme announces missions for 2026

China's Manned Space Agency has announced plans to launch two crewed missions and one cargo mission in 2026 to support ongoing operations of its space station. The country is accelerating preparations for its lunar exploration programme, targeting a crewed Moon landing in 2030, with major spacecraft systems undergoing critical testing. China is also expanding international cooperation in space activities, including planned participation by astronauts from Hong Kong, Macau, and Pakistan.

KPK Opens Opportunity to Expand Extortion Case Against Sudewo Through Evidence

The Anti-Corruption Commission (KPK) is intensifying searches for evidence in an alleged extortion case involving village official selection processes in Pati Regency, with investigations potentially expanding if additional evidence emerges linking other parties. Four suspects have been named, including non-active Pati Regent Sudewo, with charges under anti-corruption and criminal code provisions.

IKA NHI Ready to Support Ministry of Tourism Programmes and Policies

The National Hotel Institute Alumni Association (IKA NHI) has pledged its support for programmes and policies of Indonesia's Ministry of Tourism, with over 35,000 alumni positioned strategically across government, industry and international organisations.

Flood Victims' Relocation in Sumatra Accelerated to Ensure Eid al-Fitr Not Spent in Evacuation Camps

The Sumatra Post-Disaster Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Task Force aims to relocate all remaining flood evacuees from temporary camps in Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra to better housing before Eid al-Fitr 2026. As of 27 February 2026, only 11,307 people remained in emergency tents out of over two million initially affected, with the majority (10,394) in Aceh.

State-Owned Shipbuilder Inundated with Orders for Over 20 Vessels

PT PAL Indonesia, a state-owned enterprise, will undertake the construction of more than 20 ships this year, with orders distributed across multiple shipyards to meet diverse specifications. The company will involve supporting component industries, including state steel producer PT Krakatau Steel, as part of a broader government initiative to strengthen Indonesia's maritime ecosystem and develop domestic supply chains for 50-60% of supporting industries within the next 2-3 years.

The Splendour of the Maolong Festival of the Yilao Ethnic Group in Guizhou

The Maolong Festival, a traditional celebration by the Yilao ethnic group in Shiqian County, Guizhou Province to mark the Spring Festival and Lantern Festival, was designated as a Chinese national intangible cultural heritage in 2006. The festival's centrepiece is the Maolong, or "feathered dragon," a unique cultural phenomenon found only in Shiqian, which attracts visitors through elaborate parades and ceremonial activities.

Saudi Arabia Tightens Umrah Services During Ramadhan; Indonesian Hajj Ministry Demands Tour Operators Comply

Saudi Arabia has implemented stricter regulations for umrah pilgrimages during Ramadhan 1447 H, requiring clear catering provisions, verified accommodation bookings, and comprehensive service packages. Indonesia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah is enforcing compliance among Indonesian tour operators to ensure safety and comfort for Indonesian pilgrims visiting the Holy Land during the peak season.

Prudential Syariah Wins Indonesia Best Sharia Life Insurance 2026 Award

PT Prudential Sharia Life Assurance has won the Indonesia Best Sharia Life Insurance 2026 award at the Indonesia Sharia and Halal Top Brand Awards 2026, recognising its role as a pioneer in sharia life insurance innovation in Indonesia.

KAI follows up on sexual harassment case on Commuter Line

KAI Commuter has responded to a sexual harassment incident reported on its service by utilising CCTV analytics to identify the alleged perpetrator and placing them on a blacklist. The suspect was identified when they reboarded the Commuter Line on 27 February, leading KAI Commuter to escort the victim to Depok Police to proceed with legal action, whilst also offering legal and psychological support to the victim.

Eid 2026 Exodus: Yamaha Deploys 130 Service Centers and Mudik Posts

PT Yamaha Indonesia Motor Manufacturing has announced preparations for the 2026 Eid exodus period by deploying 130 service centers and two dedicated mudik posts across critical highway routes. The initiative aims to provide peace of mind to Yamaha motorcycle consumers undertaking long-distance journeys home, with special promotions and digital services available through the MyYamaha application during March 2026.

Beware of Mutilated Currency Half-Counterfeit Half-Genuine, Bank Indonesia Reveals Characteristics

Bank Indonesia has warned the public about mutilated currency—genuine rupiah notes fraudulently combined with counterfeit portions—which is illegal under Law No. 7 of 2011.

Government Prepares 30-Year Subsidy Housing Instalment Policy

The Indonesian Ministry of Housing and Settlement is preparing a new policy to extend the maximum tenure for subsidised housing instalments from 15-20 years to 30 years, designed to reduce monthly payments for low and middle-income households. The government will implement special financing schemes including a 7 per cent fixed interest rate for 15 years, 1 per cent down payment, full VAT coverage, and Rp 25 million (approximately USD 1,500) in subsidies for initial costs.

Paper Waste in Indonesia: Recycling as an Environmentally Friendly Solution

Paper waste remains a significant environmental challenge in Indonesia, contributing to methane emissions at landfill sites, but recycling offers an effective mitigation strategy. Public understanding of which paper types are recyclable is crucial, with suitable materials including HVS paper, cardboard, and newsprint, whilst contaminated or plastic-lined papers should be avoided.

BPK Commits to Maintaining Professionalism in Auditing OJK and BKPM Financial Statements

Indonesia's Supreme Audit Board (BPK) has reaffirmed its commitment to professional conduct, accountability, and inter-agency collaboration in auditing the 2025 financial statements of the Financial Services Authority (OJK) and the Ministry of Investment and Industrial Downstreaming/Investment Coordination Board (BKPM).

BYD Introduces Denza Z9 GT with World's Longest Electric Range

BYD has announced that its latest Denza Z9 GT pure electric vehicle has achieved the longest driving range of any production BEV globally, with a range of up to 1,036 kilometres based on CLTC testing when equipped with a 122,496 kWh Blade battery. The vehicle is offered in both rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations with two battery capacity options, alongside a plug-in hybrid version featuring a 63.82 kWh battery capable of approximately 400 kilometres of pure electric range.

Officials Prune Trees and Install Lights in Cawang City Park Amid Alleged Indecent Activity

Officials from East Jakarta's Parks and Forest Sub-Office have undertaken tree-pruning and lighting installation measures at Cawang City Park following reports of alleged improper activity at the site. The local government has implemented swift response actions including permanent closure of two park entrances and installation of floodlights to deter unauthorised access. Various items suggestive of the alleged activities were discovered scattered throughout the park.

Google Lyria 3: Gemini AI Music Feature with High Privacy Security

Google Indonesia has officially launched Lyria 3, an advanced AI-based music creation feature integrated with the Gemini ecosystem that allows users to generate 30-second original songs with instruments, vocals, and lyrics through text commands.

Public Works Minister Targets West Pantura Free of Potholes by Eid-10

Public Works Minister Dody Hanggodo has set a target to eliminate all potholes on the northern coast highway in western Java by ten days before Eid al-Fitr 2026. The number of potholes has been reduced from approximately 7,000 to 2,500, with the ministry ensuring readiness of toll roads and national highways to support the estimated 144 million people expected to travel during the Eid exodus.

KPK Searches Home of Former Pati Deputy Regional Secretary, Set to Expand Sudewo Case

The Indonesian Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) conducted a raid on the residence of former Pati Regional Secretary Deputy Riyoso as part of an investigation into allegations of extortion involving former Pati Regent Sudewo and three village heads. The KPK has established Sudewo and three others as suspects, charged under the Corruption Eradication Law, and signalled the possibility of expanding the investigation should additional evidence emerge from ongoing searches and interrogations.

BPOM Bandarlampung Intensifies Oversight of Ramadan Meals

The Food and Drug Supervisory Agency (BBPOM) in Bandarlampung has intensified food safety inspections from 18 February to 17 March 2026 to ensure the safety of takjil (Ramadan break-fast meals) sold during the holy month. Inspections will target food distribution channels including importers, distributors, retailers, supermarkets, and traditional markets, with particular focus on unlicensed, expired, or contaminated products and meals containing prohibited substances.

Gili Trawangan Named World's Best Swimming Spot for 2026

Gili Trawangan, a small island off Lombok, has been awarded the title of the world's best swimming destination for 2026 by luxury travel company CV Villas, beating over 100 other global coastal destinations. The ranking was determined by factors including water temperature, wind speed, and UV index, with Gili Trawangan praised for its warm, stable waters ranging between 26-30 degrees Celsius and calm conditions year-round.

Police Implement Traffic Control Measures for Nusantara Lunar New Year Procession

The Metro Jaya Police Traffic Directorate has implemented traffic management measures during the Nusantara Lunar New Year procession held at Lapangan Banteng in Central Jakarta on Sunday as part of the National Lunar New Year celebration peak. The police deployed approximately 150 traffic personnel and 600 regional personnel to ensure public safety and traffic flow, with road closures to be conducted situationally during the parade.

Indonesia launches counselling platform to address gaming addiction

Indonesia's Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs has launched DARA, a comprehensive counselling platform designed to combat gaming addiction among youth, with studies indicating that 33-39 per cent of Indonesian high school students suffer moderate to severe gaming addiction.

United States allows non-essential embassy staff to leave Israel on security grounds

The US State Department has authorised non-essential government personnel and their families to leave Israel citing security concerns, with the US Embassy in Israel advising staff to depart while commercial flights remain operational.

UN Security Council Officially Lifts Sanctions Against Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, Former Rebel Group Led by Ahmed al-Sharaa

The UN Security Council has officially lifted sanctions against Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), the armed group formerly led by current Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa, marking international recognition of Syria's political transformation. The move follows al-Sharaa's successful leadership of a rebel coalition that overthrew Bashar al-Assad's regime in late 2024 and his subsequent declaration dissolving HTS and other militias in December 2024 to consolidate power under a new national government.

Bandung Residents Rush In! Subsidised Apartment Building to be Constructed Here

The Indonesian government will construct a subsidised apartment building (rusun) up to 20 storeys in the Sadang Serang area of Bandung, with approximately 1,208 housing units targeted at low-income residents. The project follows a site inspection by the Housing and Settlement Area Minister Maruarar Sirait and Bandung Mayor Farhan, and will be financed through subsidies from both the City and Provincial governments to keep unit prices affordable for qualifying residents.

Indonesia and the United Kingdom Strengthen Partnership Through EGP

Indonesia and the United Kingdom have launched the Economic Growth Partnership (EGP) as a strategic framework to strengthen bilateral relations and boost economic growth and trade between the two nations. Deputy Trade Minister Dyah Roro Esti Widya Putri emphasised that the EGP covers priority sectors including digital economy, green transition, infrastructure, and human resource development, whilst providing businesses with regulatory certainty and long-term policy stability.

Foreign Tourist Forced to Leave Villa in Canggu; Management Responds

A foreign tourist named Ryan Mordey alleged that he was forcibly removed from a villa in Canggu, Bali after paying for six months' accommodation through a third-party booking agent, claiming the agent only remitted two months' payment to the management.

Ramadan and Sovereignty in National Development Financing

The article argues that whilst Indonesia has achieved political independence for nearly eight decades, it remains heavily dependent on external capital for national development, raising questions about genuine economic sovereignty.

South Sumatra Province Implements One Village, One Early Childhood Education Programme

South Sumatra's provincial government has launched an initiative to establish at least one early childhood education (PAUD) school in every village and sub-district across its 17 regencies and cities. Currently, the province has over 3,000 PAUD schools, but these are unevenly distributed with the majority concentrated in urban areas. The programme aims to ensure all children up to age six have access to early childhood education and proper development support across both urban and rural regions.

Measles Outbreak a Serious Wake-up Call, Not a Minor Illness, Says Indonesian Paediatricians Association Chief

The Indonesian Paediatricians Association (IDAI) chairman Dr Piprim Basarah Yanuarso has warned that rising measles cases across Indonesia, with 63,769 suspected cases and 69 deaths in 2025, signal the disease is far more serious than commonly perceived and can cause severe complications including pneumonia, encephalitis, blindness and death.

KAI Semarang intensifies rail track maintenance ahead of 2026 Lebaran transport surge

PT KAI Regional Operations 4 Semarang is intensifying maintenance of rail tracks and bridges spanning 677 kilometres across 10 districts in northern Central Java to prepare for increased train frequencies during the 2026 Lebaran holiday period.

US backs Pakistan's 'right to defend itself' after strikes on Afghanistan

Pakistan has launched widespread airstrikes across Afghanistan, including strikes on Kabul and Kandahar, escalating a simmering conflict with the Taliban government which Islamabad accuses of harbouring militants. The United States has expressed support for Pakistan's military operations, whilst international actors including China, the UN, and the ICRC have called for de-escalation and a return to dialogue.

Afghanistan Seeks to Resolve Conflict with Pakistan through Dialogue

The Taliban-led Afghan government has expressed its desire to resolve the escalating border conflict with Pakistan through "dialogue and peace" following the latest clashes between the two nations. However, Pakistan's Defence Minister declared the situation an "open war," with both countries accusing each other of heavy casualties and cross-border attacks spanning multiple Afghan cities including Kabul and Kandahar.

Human Rights Activist Haris Azhar Urges Pigai to Debate Police Violence Instead

Human rights activist Haris Azhar has criticised a proposed public debate between Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai and UGM academic Prof. Zainal Arifin Mochtar, arguing such a debate would only please human rights violators and is unnecessary given their different positions. Instead, Azhar urged Pigai to use his energy to address serious issues including police violence, incorrect application of the new criminal code, and corporate responsibility for environmental disasters.

Sarolangun District targets 350 hectares of new paddy field creation

Sarolangun District in Jambi province is targeting the creation of 350 hectares of new paddy fields in 2026 to increase rice production and agricultural output. The district also plans to request agricultural equipment and machinery from the Ministry of Agriculture to support productivity. This initiative is part of the district's strategic development plan and the national food self-sufficiency programme, building on last year's achievement of 433 hectares across twelve villages.

Usman Hamid on Pigai Debate Challenge: Good for Public

Amnesty International Indonesia executive director Usman Hamid has weighed in on the public debate challenge issued by Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai to Gadjah Mada University constitutional law expert Zainal Arifin Mochtar (Uceng), praising it as a legitimate part of public discourse on human rights. However, Hamid cautioned that whilst such debate can be educational, the focus should be on addressing the root causes of human rights violations in Indonesia rather than individual figures.

4,000 Civil Servants to be Trained as Reserve Component Members

The Indonesian government plans to train 4,000 civil servants (ASN) to become members of the Komponen Cadangan (Komcad), the Reserve Component of the national defence system, beginning in April 2026. The training will be conducted in two phases of 2,000 participants each over 1.5-month periods and will be entirely voluntary with no compulsory requirements.

Cak Imin: Mental Health Must Be Placed as Strategic Agenda

Coordinating Minister for Community Empowerment A. Muhaimin Iskandar has urged that mental health be established as a strategic agenda and collective responsibility, citing alarming trends in tragic incidents including youth suicides. According to Health Ministry data, approximately 28 million Indonesians face mental health issues, stemming from structural poverty, weakened social cohesion, and insufficient psychosocial support.

The Dedication of Police Officer Aipda Raja Faisal in Border Regions

Aipda Raja Faisal Mushawir, a police officer from Tarempa in Anambas Islands, Riau Islands Province, has dedicated 21 years to the Indonesian National Police whilst simultaneously serving as a volunteer funeral hearse driver since 2017. His compassionate service extends to all community members regardless of faith or family circumstances, reflecting his deep commitment to both his police duty and humanitarian calling in his remote frontier district.

Ramadhan 2026: BRI Insurance Strengthens Social Responsibility Through Foundation Support

BRI Insurance has reaffirmed its corporate social responsibility commitment during Ramadhan 2026 by distributing educational supplies and operational funding to two foundations supporting orphans and underprivileged children in Jakarta. Chief Executive Officer Budi Legowo personally delivered assistance to Yayasan Ridho Berkah Sejahtera in East Jakarta and Baitul Yatama Jakarta, emphasising the company's support for the future of Indonesia's youth.

Samsung Opens the Window Wider, Galaxy S26 Ultra Nightography Reaches New Level

Samsung's Galaxy S26 Ultra maintains the same camera specifications as its predecessor, the Galaxy S25 Ultra, but delivers significant improvements in photo and video quality through wider lens apertures. The main 200 MP camera now features an f/1.4 aperture, up from f/1.7, allowing 47 percent more light capture, while the 50 MP periscope telephoto lens improves to f/2.9 from f/3.4, capturing 37 percent more light to enhance night photography performance.

From Cipasung, Islamic Scholars and Police Safeguard Indonesian Unity

The West Java Police Chief visited Pesantren Cipasung to strengthen cooperation between law enforcement and Islamic boarding schools in protecting national security and character development. The Indonesian Ministry of Religious Affairs is establishing a new Directorate General for Pesantren (Islamic boarding schools) as a dedicated agency to oversee over 42,000 pesantren nationwide, signifying the government's strategic recognition of pesantren's role in nation-building and moral formation.

Video: Generation Z Boost Futures Exchange Investment, Here Are Profit Prospects

The Chief Executive Officer of PT Trident Pro Futures, Maruli Tua Sinambela, expressed optimism about growth prospects in Indonesia's futures exchange market despite anticipated 2026 volatility. Global market volatility driven by trade tensions and geopolitical risks is creating trading opportunities in commodities like gold, whilst Generation Z investors are increasingly entering the futures market, prompting brokerages to enhance financial literacy and education initiatives.

Culture Minister Backs Biopic Film Production on Karate Legend Titik Verdi

Indonesia's Culture Minister Fadli Zon met with karate champion Titik Prasetyowati Verdi to endorse a biopic film documenting her two world championship victories (Mexico 1991, Tokyo 1993) and her contributions to Indonesian sporting honour. Beyond celebrating her athletic achievements, the film aims to promote women's empowerment and raise awareness of sexual violence and crimes against women and children, with production scheduled to commence in June 2026.

Kim Jong Un's Daughter Begins Public Role, Tests Sniper Rifle

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has distributed new-generation sniper rifles to senior party and military officials during a ceremony marking the Ninth Congress of the Workers' Party of Korea. Kim's teenage daughter, Ju Ae, made a rare public appearance at the ceremony, handling a sniper rifle at a firing range, prompting analysts to speculate that she is being positioned as a potential successor to lead the fourth generation of leadership in the hermit state.

Political Dynasty of East Kalimantan Governor: From Regional Parliament Chair to Regent

East Kalimantan Governor Rudy Mas'ud faces scrutiny over allegations of political dynastic control, with multiple family members holding significant public positions across the province.

Labour Minister Collaborates with BP Tapera to Design Quality and Strategic Housing for Workers

Indonesia's Labour Minister Yassierli is strengthening collaboration with BP Tapera (the People's Housing Savings Management Board) to develop affordable and strategically located housing programmes for workers and labourers. The ministry aims to comprehensively map worker housing needs, including location preferences and programme design, whilst encouraging expanded partnerships to ensure the programme's targets are realised.

How to Register for Free Mudik Lebaran 2026 with Ministry of Transport – Check the Requirements Too

The Indonesian Ministry of Transport (Kemenhub) is opening registration for the free Mudik (mass exodus) Lebaran 2026 programme from 1-15 March 2026, with applications accepted daily from 08:00 WIB until the daily quota is filled. Registration is conducted entirely online through the nusantara.kemenhub.go.id portal, with one account able to register up to four people and one motorcycle, and participants must complete validation at designated registration posts within three days of registration.

Penajam Police Invite Residents to Protect Environment from Waste Pollution

The Water and Air Police Unit of Penajam Paser Utara Police Resort in East Kalimantan organised a community clean-up initiative with residents of Kayu Api Village to remove waste from beaches and rivers in the coastal region. The effort aims to raise collective awareness about environmental conservation, protect fisheries and tourism sectors, and prevent marine pollution that threatens aquatic ecosystems and the health of coastal communities.

Accelerating Relocation in Sumatra: PRR Task Force Targets Completion Before Eid Al-Fitr

The Sumatra Post-Disaster Rehabilitation and Reconstruction (PRR) Task Force aims to relocate all remaining evacuees from emergency tents in Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra to proper housing before Eid Al-Fitr 2026. As of 27 February 2026, 10,498 temporary housing units (huntara) have been completed out of a target of 18,253 units (57 per cent), whilst permanent housing (huntap) construction is underway with 1,363 units built from a target of 36,669.

Public Works Ministry prepares pumps to prevent flooding along North Coast Route during 2026 Eid exodus

Indonesia's Public Works Ministry is deploying pumps at flood-prone locations along the Pantura (North Coast) highway to mitigate waterlogging during the 2026 Eid holiday exodus. The ministry has established joint command posts between road and water management agencies and positioned emergency teams with equipment including pumps and geo-bags to enable rapid response during heavy rainfall.

Deputy Governor of South Sulawesi Appreciates PPA Community for Consistent Mentoring of Orphaned Children

South Sulawesi's Deputy Governor Fatmawati Rusdi has praised the Pola Pertolongan Allah (PPA) Community and Abulyatama Indonesia Foundation for their consistent efforts in providing mentorship and support to orphaned children in the region.

UIN Suska Riau to Expel Student Accused of Machete Attack on Campus

UIN Suska Riau has announced it will dismiss student Raihan Mufazzar following his alleged machete attack on fellow student Faradilla Ayu Pramesti on campus. The university's ethics committee is processing the case, which is classified as a serious breach of conduct. The victim sustained three wounds to the head, back, and arm, and has been hospitalised in stable condition, whilst the criminal case has been referred to police.

BPOM Secures WHO Listed Authority Status, Multiple Countries Keen to Learn from Indonesia

Indonesia's drug and food regulator BPOM has been officially designated as a WHO Listed Authority (WLA) for medical products and vaccines, placing it on par with leading regulatory authorities from developed nations. This recognition positions BPOM as the first regulatory authority from a developing country whose system meets the highest global standards, generating significant international interest from countries across the Middle East, Asia, and Africa seeking to replicate the achievement.

Vice President Gibran to Attend Chinese New Year Celebration Peak at Banteng Field, Central Jakarta Today

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka is scheduled to attend the peak celebration of Chinese New Year 2026 at Banteng Field in Central Jakarta this afternoon. The National Chinese New Year celebration will feature a procession parade starting from Cathedral Church, with six car parks accommodating 1,000 vehicles prepared for the event. The Jakarta Metro Police have implemented comprehensive traffic management measures with alternative routes to minimise disruption during the parade.

Jember Regency Government Prepares Free Eid Travel with Routes to Jakarta through Bali

Jember Regency Government in East Java has launched a free Eid homecoming programme entitled "Safe Travel Sharing Love 2026" offering transport routes to Jakarta, Madura, Ponorogo and Bali. Registration opened on 25 February through 13 March 2026, with buses departing from Bali on 16 March and Jakarta on 18 March, prioritising safety through vehicle inspections and promoting alternatives to motorcycle travel.

Harasser of Depok Fire Department Officer Accused of Helmet Content Not Police Member

The Police Audit Office (Itwasum) confirmed that Wawan Gunawan, a casual labourer from Subang, West Java, was responsible for intimidating fire department officer Khairul Umam after his viral video explaining helmet functions, not a police officer as initially suspected.

Ibas Urges Strengthening of Quality and Governance in Free Nutritious Meal Programme During Maospati Visit

Vice Chairman of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) Edhie Baskoro Yudhoyono visited a Nutrition Service Unit in Magetan district to oversee the implementation of the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme during Ramadan 2026.

Joxzin Brigade Denies Four Murder Case Witnesses Are Members

The Joxzin Brigade civil organisation has denied that four witnesses questioned by police regarding the murder of Kitin Yoga Tama Rustamaji (36) in Sedayu, Bantul, are members of the group, claiming they were merely friends gathering at the victim's home.

IKN Features Park Like a Slice of Paradise

The IKN Authority has showcased the Eastern National Axis Roundabout Park (Taman Bundaran Sumbu Kebangsaan Timur) at Indonesia's new capital, featuring iconic green roundabout design and circular pedestrian pathways. The development reinforces IKN's commitment to building Nusantara not only as a physical city but also as a digitally mature, secure, and future-oriented smart city, serving as a model for green urban development across Indonesia and globally.

Attorney General Appeals Verdicts in Nine-Defendant Crude Oil Corruption Case

Indonesia's Attorney General has filed an appeal against corruption verdicts handed down to nine defendants in a crude oil and refinery product governance case covering the 2018–2023 period. The Central Jakarta District Court's Corruption Court sentenced the defendants, including senior officials from Pertamina and affiliated shipping companies, to prison terms ranging from 9 to 15 years, with fines and one defendant facing an additional 2.9 trillion rupiah restitution order.

South Kalimantan Forestry Service strengthens logging permits supervision through industry guidance

South Kalimantan's Forestry Service is intensifying oversight of forestry permits through targeted guidance of timber industry operations to ensure business compliance and improve forest sector governance in the province. The supervisory effort focuses on logging permits, forest area usage, and forestry industry activities, with emphasis on consistent monitoring to prevent regulatory violations and protect forest resources.

Six Parking Areas Prepared for Peak Lunar New Year 2026 Celebration, Here Are the Locations

Jakarta police have prepared six parking areas with capacity for 1,000 vehicles ahead of the peak Lunar New Year (Imlek) Nusantara 2026 celebration at Lapangan Banteng in Central Jakarta on 28 February 2026. Parking facilities are distributed across the Ministry of Foreign Affairs building, the old Pertamina office, the Ministry of Religious Affairs building, the Postal Service office, and the Borobudur Hotel, with VIP parking reserved at the latter.

Kudus district reports 12 KDMP building sites completed

Kudus district in Central Java has completed construction on 12 out of 80 planned Red and White Village Cooperative (KDMP) buildings, with the structures now awaiting furnishing and equipment installation. PT Agrinas Pangan Nusantara will be responsible for outfitting the facilities and procuring inventory to launch cooperative operations.

Agung Sedayu Group Provides Welfare to 500 Orphaned Children in PIK, Iftar Meal Becomes Annual Ramadhan Agenda

Agung Sedayu Group held its annual Ramadhan social initiative, providing iftar meals and charitable assistance to 500 orphaned children from the Pantai Indah Kapuk area and surrounding regions of Banten at Al-Ikhlas Mosque on Friday, 27 February 2026.

Oman: Breakthrough as US and Iran agree on zero uranium stockpiling

Oman's Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr Al-Busaidi announced that US-Iran nuclear negotiations have achieved a historic agreement on zero uranium accumulation and stockpiling, with enriched stocks to be reduced to minimum levels and converted into permanent fuel under IAEA verification. Al-Busaidi described the breakthrough as ensuring Iran will never possess nuclear material capable of creating weapons, whilst emphasising that diplomacy remains the only viable path to resolution.

Strengthening Synergy of Charity: Rumah Zakat and Majelis Telkomsel Taqwa Sign MoU

Rumah Zakat and Majelis Telkomsel Taqwa have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to establish a formal partnership focused on humanitarian programmes, religious outreach, and community empowerment. The collaboration, formalised under Rumah Zakat's Partnership scheme, aims to expand the reach of charitable initiatives and strengthen social responsibility values across Indonesian society.

Central Government Repairs Damaged Infrastructure in Padang Pariaman

The central government has commenced assistance in repairing damaged infrastructure in Padang Pariaman district, West Sumatra, following hydrometeorological disasters in late 2025. The local government submitted a Post-Disaster Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Plan (R3P) document requesting Rp3.

Hartadinata Gold Price Edges Up This Afternoon, 1 Gram at IDR 2.959 Million

Gold prices at PT Hartadinata Abadi Tbk (HRTA) edged upwards on Saturday (28 February 2026) afternoon, with 1-gram bars trading at IDR 2.959 million. The buyback price for 1-gram gold rose to IDR 2.850 million. Hartadinata's gold bar products (EMASKU) are available in denominations ranging from 0.1 grams to 1 kilogram, catering to various investor requirements and budgets.

Total Lunar Eclipse on 3 March 2026: Itera Opens Public Observation, Schedule and Locations

The Itera Observatory at the Institut Teknologi Sumatera will open public viewing sessions for the total lunar eclipse on 3 March 2026, one of the most significant astronomical events of the year. The eclipse's totality phase will last approximately 58 minutes, with the Moon turning a distinctive copper-red colour known as a "blood moon," visible to the naked eye across East Asia and the Pacific region.

Human Rights Minister Urges Police to Apply Restorative Justice in Pandji Pragiwaksono Case

Indonesian Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai has called on the National Police's Criminal Investigation Directorate to adopt a restorative justice approach in handling the criminal case involving comedian Pandji Pragiwaksono. The police have confirmed that the criminal investigation remains ongoing regardless of Pandji's participation in a customary law hearing in Toraja, South Sulawesi, with 14 witnesses and 9 experts already examined.

Commission IX of the People's Consultative Assembly reminds free nutritious meal kitchen in Manokwari to prioritise food quality

A member of the People's Consultative Assembly's Commission IX has urged all nutrition service units (SPPG) in Manokwari, West Papua, to prioritise food quality in implementing the Free Nutritious Meal programme (MBG), a presidential initiative targeting students and vulnerable groups. The directive follows recent poisoning incidents and discoveries of mouldy bread, with Commission IX pledging routine monitoring and oversight in collaboration with the Ministry of Health.

Transport Minister states Eid holiday travellers to Gorontalo to reach 340,000 in 2026

Indonesia's Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi visited Gorontalo to coordinate preparations for the 2026 Eid holiday mass migration, noting that approximately 340,000 travellers are expected to journey to the province. The minister emphasised the need for careful management of passenger flow across transportation hubs and crossing points, whilst also flagging local Gorontalo customs and events that may impact traffic flow during the migration period from 13 to 30 March 2026.

Islamic Boarding School Graduates Rise Up: Studying, Serving, Driving the Community Economy

Indonesia's National Amil Zakat Board (Baznas) has launched a "Santri Empowering Villages" programme placing 78 Islamic boarding school students across eight provinces to work directly with farmers, livestock herders, and micro-business operators. The initiative, backed by MPR Chair Ahmad Muzani, combines religious education with practical training in agribusiness management and microenterprise development, positioning boarding school graduates as agents of community economic empowerment.

Police Conduct DNA Tests to Investigate Link Between Human Remains and Ukrainian National Abduction in Bali

Bali police are investigating a potential connection between human remains discovered in the Wos Teben River estuary in Gianyar and the reported abduction of a Ukrainian national in Jimbaran, Badung. DNA testing is being conducted to determine whether the two incidents are linked, with authorities currently treating them as separate cases whilst matching DNA samples from the victim's family members to identify the remains.

Tangerang City Police and Community Issue Joint Declaration to Maintain Public Order

The Metro Tangerang City Police held a security alert assembly on 26 February with 502 personnel and community representatives, during which police and residents issued a joint declaration committing to maintain conducive conditions in Tangerang. The declaration rejects anarchist actions, vandalism, and hate speech on social media, whilst emphasising community vigilance and cooperation with law enforcement.

Signals Point to Significant Fuel Price Rise from 1 March: Here's the Calculation

Non-subsidised fuel prices in Indonesia are projected to rise or at least remain stagnant from 1 March 2026, driven by increased global crude oil prices despite the relatively stable rupiah exchange rate. The rise follows consecutive price cuts in January and February 2026, with Brent crude averaging USD 66.99 per barrel over the past two months compared to USD 63.

Kuningan City Mall Distributes Shopping Vouchers During Ramadan

Kuningan City Mall is launching a comprehensive Ramadan 2026 promotion programme featuring free concerts, shopping vouchers, and cultural entertainment. The mall offers loyalty rewards of up to 150,000 rupiah vouchers for minimum transactions of 150,000 rupiah, alongside special performances and sports activities throughout the Islamic holy month.

750 Police Officers Secure National Chinese New Year Celebration at Lapangan Banteng, Central Jakarta This Afternoon

The Indonesian National Police will deploy 750 officers to secure the peak celebration of Nusantara Chinese New Year 2026 at Lapangan Banteng, Central Jakarta, commencing at 3:00 PM. The security contingent comprises 150 traffic personnel and 600 territorial officers, with a parade beginning from the Cathedral and proceeding through key central Jakarta landmarks. Traffic closures will be implemented situationally during the parade route.

Junior Secondary School Student in Sikka, NTT Murdered After Rejecting Sexual Advances

A 14-year-old junior secondary school student identified as STN was killed by a 16-year-old relative identified as FRG in Sikka Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, after she rejected his sexual advances on 20 February 2026. FRG brutally attacked the victim with a machete, inflicting fatal wounds to her neck and head, then attempted to conceal the body before fleeing to Ende Regency.

Dompet Dhuafa Represents Indonesia at Asian Philanthropy Forum in Riyadh

Dompet Dhuafa's Chief Research and Development represented Indonesia at the Commission on Asian Philanthropy forum in Riyadh on 9-10 February 2026, where Asian philanthropy leaders discussed strategies to strengthen domestic philanthropy across the region.

Hundreds of Traffic Police Secure Routes for National Chinese New Year Celebrations

The Jakarta Metro Police's Traffic Directorate has deployed approximately 150 traffic personnel and 600 regional officers to secure traffic during the peak celebrations of the National Chinese New Year Festival at Banteng Field, Central Jakarta, on 17 February to 3 March 2026. The authorities have arranged parking facilities with a total capacity of roughly 1,000 vehicles, with VIP parking designated at Hotel Borobudur and public entrances at the western and eastern gates of Banteng Field.

Viral Youth Brawl in Bogor as Perpetrators Play Cat-and-Mouse with Patrol Officers

A video of a youth brawl in Pabuaran, Cibinong District, Bogor, West Java, has circulated on social media, showing armed youths engaging in what appears to be a pre-dawn clash using bamboo and other weapons. The Cibinong Police Chief revealed that perpetrators actively monitor patrol movements to evade detection, creating a cat-and-mouse dynamic with law enforcement, though the police continue to pursue follow-up action on all reported incidents.

Former Bima City Police Chief Regularly Received Security Money from Drug Dealer Ko Erwin

A former Bima City Police Chief, AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro, is accused of regularly receiving security money from drug dealer Ko Erwin between June and November 2025 in exchange for protecting drug operations. Didik has been designated as a suspect and faces charges carrying potential sentences of death, life imprisonment, or up to 20 years, whilst Ko Erwin has been arrested for questioning.

Persipura's Mission Goes Beyond Promotion, Emphasising Sustainability and Professionalism

Persipura Jayapura manager Owen Rahadiyan has outlined an ambitious vision for the club extending far beyond securing promotion back to the Super League, prioritising the establishment of a sustainable, professionally-managed ecosystem.

Defence Ministry: Helmets Used by TNI in Gaza Await BoP Mandate

Indonesia's Defence Ministry has stated that plans to deploy 8,000 Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) personnel to the Gaza Strip remain under discussion, with no final decision yet made on whether troops will wear blue helmets as part of the UN-mandated International Stabilisation Force.

Ramadhan Strengthens Pesantren Students, Moving the Nation Through Knowledge and Exemplary Conduct

Indonesia's Ministry of Religious Affairs has launched "San Trend Ramadhan", a programme promoting pesantren (Islamic boarding school) students as future nation-builders who combine classical Islamic scholarship with modern knowledge and national commitment.

Indonesian Mothers' Practice of Giving Sugar and Honey to Newborns: Understanding the Causes

A study by Indonesia's Population Research Centre (BRIN) reveals that 58.1% of sampled children did not receive exclusive breastfeeding during their first six months, with prelacteal feeding (giving sugar or honey to newborns) increasing the risk of non-exclusive breastfeeding by 5.67 times. Key determinants identified include maternal education level, maternal employment status, and cultural beliefs about sweetness bringing good fortune to children's futures.

Waiting for Maghrib in Blok M

This feature article examines Blok M, Jakarta's commercial district, which has evolved into a culinary hub during Ramadan, serving as a gathering point for students, office workers, and families breaking their fast. The ecosystem thrives on flexibility and variety, with restaurants, social media virality, and consumer behaviour driving the dining choices of young Jakartans seeking everything from affordable warm noodle soup to comfortable café environments.

Heart of Bekasi Special Education Teacher Touched by Students' Concerns: "After Graduation, What Job Will I Do?"

The principal of SLB Kembar Karya Pembangunan III in Bekasi, Vivi Sukmawati, has launched an entrepreneurship programme to help deaf and hard-of-hearing students develop independence and job-creation skills after graduation. The initiative includes having students operate food and beverage stalls during Ramadan, which allows them to develop communication and business skills while building public confidence in their abilities.

DPR Member Urges BRIN to Address Clean Water Crisis in Padasari, Tegal

A member of Commission X in the Indonesian House of Representatives has pressed the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) to urgently address a clean water shortage in Padasari, Tegal, Central Java, where residents affected by a landslide disaster are housed in temporary shelters.

GREAT Institute: Board of Peace aligns with Bandung Principles

The Director of Geopolitics at GREAT Institute, Teguh Santosa, has argued that Indonesia's participation in the Board of Peace (BoP) is consistent with the Bandung Principles, specifically the concept of peaceful coexistence. The Board of Peace, established through UN Security Council Resolution 2803, aims to support Palestinian self-determination and independence whilst promoting dialogue between Israel and Palestine.

IDAI: Measles Transmission Extremely Rapid, One Case Can Infect Up To 18 People

The Indonesian Paediatric Association (IDAI) warns that measles is highly contagious, with airborne transmission capable of spreading from one infected person to as many as 18 others in a short timeframe. The disease spreads through respiratory droplets and can persist in the air or on surfaces for over two hours, making transmission difficult to control in poorly ventilated, crowded spaces.

When Kaesang Was Called "Gus" During Visit to NU Jakarta Leadership

Indonesia Solidarity Party (PSI) chairman Kaesang Pangarep visited KH Muhiddin Ishaq, a senior leader of Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) in Jakarta, in late February 2026, where Ishaq affectionately called him "Gus"—a traditional term of respect for the son of Islamic scholars.

KAI Commuter Apprehends Sexual Harassment Suspect on Commuter Rail, Offender Blacklisted

KAI Commuter arrested a man suspected of sexual harassment aboard its commuter rail service after his actions went viral on social media, using CCTV analytics technology to identify and track the perpetrator.

Kota Kasablanka Achieves Recognition in Retail Industry

Kota Kasablanka shopping mall has received two prestigious awards at the Indonesia Top Achievements of the Year 2026 ceremony: Best Mall of The Year 2026 and Excellence in Event & Visitor Experience 2026. The awards recognised the mall's sustained performance, competitive occupancy rates, strong visitor traffic, and consistent delivery of national and international-scale events, cementing its position as an innovative and customer-focused retail and lifestyle destination in Jakarta.

North Korea Releases Photos of Kim Jong Un's Daughter Firing Rifle, What Is the Significance?

North Korea has released rare photographs of Ju Ae, the adolescent daughter of leader Kim Jong Un, firing a rifle at a shooting range, fuelling speculation about her preparation as his successor. The images, released by the Korean Central News Agency following a major Labour Party congress, appear designed to demonstrate Ju Ae's training and legitimacy as a potential heir to lead the nuclear-armed, isolated state.

Nusantara Lunar New Year Parade 2026 in Jakarta This Afternoon – Check the Route!

Jakarta will host the Nusantara Lunar New Year Parade 2026 on Saturday, 28 February, from 3–5 PM, featuring dragon dances, lion dances, wushu performances and more along the route from Cathedral Street to Banteng Field. The national peak celebration will be livestreamed the same evening at 8 PM, with Cap Go Meh festivities following on 3 March 2026, though this date is not declared a public holiday.

IDAI Warns of Dangerous Measles Complications: Pneumonia, Seizures and Permanent Brain Damage

The Indonesian Child Doctors Association (IDAI) has warned that measles is far more serious than commonly perceived, with potentially fatal complications including pneumonia in 77 per cent of hospitalised cases, permanent hearing loss, and neurological damage.

Indonesia asserts US data transfers under ART agreement are legally secure

An Indonesian minister has stated that the Adequacy Recognition for Transfers (ART) agreement with the United States provides legal certainty for cross-border data transfers whilst maintaining compliance with Indonesia's Personal Data Protection Law. The minister clarified that data transfers are voluntary individual choices rather than government-mandated exchanges and emphasised that the agreement strengthens the legal framework rather than weakening data protection standards.

Government Steps to Make 2026 Hajj Costs More Affordable

The Indonesian Ministry of Hajj and Umrah is implementing the "Indonesia Hajj Transformation 2026" initiative to reduce pilgrimage costs and improve service quality. The programme includes enhanced staff training, upgraded services through travel organisers (PPIU and PIHK), and measures to ensure hajj becomes more affordable for worshippers.

Government Announces Major Job Openings, Here's the List

The Prabowo Subianto administration is implementing its target to create massive employment opportunities through industrial expansion and resource downstream projects.

Measles Cases Rise; Indonesian Paediatric Association Cites Low Immunisation Coverage as KLB Trigger

Low immunisation coverage in several Indonesian regions is driving an outbreak of measles cases, according to the Indonesian Paediatric Association (IDAI), with the disease classified as vaccine-preventable and preventable through optimal vaccination.

PT PAL: Shipyard consolidation momentum to optimise opportunities

PT PAL Indonesia's Chief Executive Kaharuddin Djenod has stated that the consolidation of Indonesia's shipyards represents a critical opportunity to meet the nation's maritime needs independently, with at least 23 vessels requiring contracts this year alone.

Jakarta's Ramadan Atmosphere Deemed More Vibrant This Year

Jakarta's provincial government is promoting a "Mudik ke Jakarta" (Return to Jakarta) campaign during Ramadan 2026, offering hotel discounts and retail markdowns of up to 70 percent to encourage residents to celebrate Eid within the capital rather than travelling. The initiative, which runs from 27 February to 31 March 2026, includes tax incentives for businesses and free public transport during Eid, creating a "win-win solution" for both merchants and consumers.

Pertamina Targets Export Market for Sustainable Aviation Fuel from Used Cooking Oil

PT Pertamina has established a Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) ecosystem and is preparing to enter the global market, with plans to export products made from used cooking oil. The company has successfully produced a 2.4 per cent SAF blend that has been tested on an Airbus A320-200 aircraft operated by Pelita Air Services, with full ISCC certification ensuring sustainability and carbon accounting standards.

Gold Price Today 28 February 2026: Antam Products Surge Rp 40,000 per Gram at Week's End

Gold prices from PT Aneka Tambang (Antam), Indonesia's state-owned precious metals company, surged to Rp 3,085,000 per gram on 28 February 2026, marking a Rp 40,000 increase from the previous day's trading. The buyback price was set at Rp 2,864,000 per gram, with tiered pricing available across various weight denominations from 0.5 grams to 1 kilogram.

UN calls for immediate halt to conflict between Afghanistan and Pakistan

UN Secretary-General António Guterres has called for an immediate cessation of escalating violence between Afghanistan and Pakistan, expressing grave concern over the humanitarian toll on civilians. With half of Afghanistan's population now requiring humanitarian assistance due to years of conflict, poverty, and natural disasters, the UN has urged all parties to resolve differences through diplomatic channels and comply with international humanitarian law to protect civilians and infrastructure.

HMSP Overhauls Board of Directors, Three New Names Officially Appointed

PT Hanjaya Mandala Sampoerna Tbk (HMSP), a major Indonesian listed company, has announced a restructuring of its Board of Directors following an Extraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders on 27 February 2026. Three new executive appointments have been confirmed: Houria Raselma replacing Gunnar Beckers, Reno Bontemps replacing Sergio Colarusso, and Rianto Probo Hartono joining as a new director, with the company aiming to strengthen organisational structure and adapt to industry dynamics.

Citizenship Status of LPDP Scholarship Awardee DS's Child Draws Government Scrutiny

The citizenship status of Dwi Sasetyaningtyas (DS), an LPDP scholarship awardee, and her child has become the subject of government attention after DS claimed her child held a British passport and was no longer an Indonesian citizen. The Director General of General Legal Administration clarified that under Indonesian citizenship law principles, the child remains an Indonesian citizen through descent, as the UK does not grant automatic citizenship based on birthplace.

Sunda Kelapa Mosque Prepares Thousands of Iftar Portions Daily

Sunda Kelapa Grand Mosque in Central Jakarta is distributing approximately 1,000 meals daily to the public for breaking fast during Ramadhan, with numbers reaching up to 1,300 portions on certain days. Beyond iftar provisions, regional governments across Indonesia—including Banyuwangi in East Java and Tangerang in Banten—are implementing food safety inspections and enhancing public amenities at takjil (snack) markets to ensure both community welfare and consumer protection during the holy month.

Indonesia and Mongolia Hold Political Consultation Meeting, Marking New Chapter in Partnership

Indonesia and Mongolia held a Political Consultation Meeting in Jakarta on 26 February 2026, marking 70 years of diplomatic relations and heralding a new phase in bilateral cooperation. The meeting, led by Indonesian Deputy Foreign Minister Arrmanatha C. Nasir and Mongolian counterpart Amartuvshin Gombosuren, explored expanded collaboration across strategic sectors including trade, defence, agriculture, education, and technology.

Access Points to Cawang City Park Closed Following Indecency Incident

Cawang City Park in East Jakarta has seen illegal access points permanently sealed with concrete following reports of indecent activities occurring at the site. The park authorities, working with the East Jakarta City Government and cross-agency coordination, identified and closed two unauthorised entry points, including a gap less than 1 metre wide near the Cawang-Grogol Toll road that was allegedly used by offenders under cover of darkness.

Vice President Advocates Legal Framework for Tax Consultant Profession

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka has expressed support for the enactment of a Tax Consultant Law during an audience with the Indonesian Tax Consultant Association (IKPI). The proposed legislation aims to clarify the position, responsibilities, and professional standards of tax consultants, which the Vice President believes will strengthen tax compliance and the national tax system.

KCI Apprehends Sexual Harassment Perpetrator on Jakarta Kota-Bogor KRL Route

KAI Commuter successfully apprehended a man suspected of sexually assaulting a female passenger on the Jakarta Kota-Bogor commuter rail line after identifying him through CCTV footage and a security system alert. The incident occurred on 22 January, with the victim reporting the assault at Cilebut Station; the suspect was captured when he re-entered a station area on 27 February and was taken for questioning with psychological support provided to the victim.

Tangerang City Government Introduces Affordable Shopping Tourism During Ramadhan 1447 H

Tangerang City Government is launching three major shopping and tourism initiatives during Ramadhan 1447 H: Jakcloth Lebaran Fair 2026 featuring 70 local brands, Gampang Sembako offering subsidised essential commodities, and Ramadan Al-A'zhom Festival combining commerce and community engagement. These programmes aim to stimulate local economic growth, support small and medium enterprises, and attract visitors to the city during the Islamic holy month.

Examining Key Performance Challenges in Indonesia's Financing Industry as Debt Collection Practices Come Under Scrutiny

Indonesia's financing industry faces multiple challenges including capital adequacy requirements, expiring credit restructuring programmes, rising non-performing financing ratios (NPF), and slowing financing growth. Debt collection practices by third-party collectors have become a contentious public issue, though regulators and industry bodies argue that stronger regulation and oversight—rather than elimination of collection activities—are needed to address the underlying problems.

Cawang City Park Becomes Hub for Immoral Activities; Municipality Implements Three Prevention Measures

The East Jakarta municipal government has launched a three-pronged approach to combat suspected prostitution and immoral activities at Cawang City Park, including the installation of two floodlights, intensified night patrols by civil police and three-pillar security forces, and placement of permanent monitoring staff.

The Story of KH Ahmad Dahlan's Correction of the Qibla Direction at Langgar Kidoel in Yogyakarta

Langgar Kidoel in Yogyakarta served as the site where KH Ahmad Dahlan, the founder of Muhammadiyah, corrected the qibla direction—a pioneering effort that became the first place of worship with a corrected qibla orientation. Through careful calculation using compass and maps, Dahlan discovered that Javanese mosques facing due west were incorrectly oriented towards Mecca, leading him to rebuild and reorient the langgar accordingly.

Key Principles for Child Guidance in the Digital Sphere

Indonesia's Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs emphasises that child protection in digital spaces requires a shift from restrictive, one-directional approaches to open communication-based guidance, digital literacy for parents, and risk-based regulation. With Generation Z showing 87.8% internet penetration and Generation Alpha at 79.

Many Dealers Selling Used Avanza for Affordable Rp 70 Million, Here's Their Condition

The second-hand car market in Indonesia is seeing increased activity in used Toyota Avanza vehicles, with older-generation models now available from around Rp 70 million (approximately USD 4,500). Multiple dealerships are offering various production years ranging from 2006 to 2011, with claims of satisfactory maintenance and roadworthiness, appealing to budget-conscious family car buyers seeking vehicles with low operating costs and readily available spare parts.

DKI Provincial Government Provides Free Public Transport on Eid al-Fitr

The DKI Jakarta Provincial Government will provide free public transport services across all government-operated transit systems during Eid al-Fitr 2026. Governor Pramono Anung stated the policy aims to encourage Jakarta residents who are not travelling for the festive period to remain in the capital and enjoy its attractions, whilst also welcoming visitors from outside the province.

Sidoarjo ID Card Belonging to Calya Driver Caught Driving Against Traffic on Gunung Sahari Road Found to be Forged

A 25-year-old driver of a Toyota Calya vehicle stopped for driving against traffic on Gunung Sahari Road in Central Jakarta was found to be using a forged identity card from Sidoarjo. Police investigation revealed the suspect, Hafiz Mahendra, was also carrying sharp weapons, driving without a valid driving licence or vehicle registration, and had multiple fraudulent licence plates.

Prosecutors Appeal Against Kerry Adrianto's Conviction in Pertamina Crude Oil Case

Indonesia's Attorney General's Office has filed an appeal against the conviction of Kerry Adrianto Riza and eight co-defendants in a major corruption case involving mismanagement of crude oil and refinery products at state-owned Pertamina. The defendants were convicted for causing state losses totalling approximately 25.4 trillion rupiah (US$2.7 billion), with Kerry facing the heaviest sentence of 15 years imprisonment and replacement funds of 2.9 trillion rupiah.

East Java Provincial Government Prepares 17 Bus Routes and Two Ship Routes for Free Homecoming Programme

The East Java Provincial Government is launching a free homecoming programme for Eid al-Fitr 2026, providing transport for 7,000 residents across 17 bus routes and two maritime routes to 20 districts and cities. The initiative, coordinated by the Provincial Transportation Agency, aims to ensure safe, comfortable, and cost-free travel during the mudik (homecoming) season, with registrations opening in March 2026.

The Ketewel Tragedy: Questioning the Courage and Professionalism of Bali Police

A Ukrainian national, Ihor Komarav, was found murdered with dismembered remains in Ketewel, Bali, following a ransom demand of USD 10 million, indicating potential organised crime involvement. The case involves premeditated murder with mutilation and kidnapping with ransom, classifying it as an extraordinary crime requiring comprehensive investigation beyond physical forensics.

Visinema Studios Releases New Nussa Story Titled Rain to Celebrate Ramadan 2026

Visinema Studios has released a new animated story titled "Rain" (Hujan) featuring its flagship Indonesian character Nussa to mark Ramadan 2026. The studio is emphasising consistency in digital content delivery whilst expanding engagement through offline activation events at shopping malls, underscoring Nussa's position as a significant homegrown intellectual property in the Indonesian animation and entertainment sector.

Trump signals "peaceful takeover" of Cuba by the United States

US President Donald Trump has suggested that Washington could undertake a "peaceful takeover" of Cuba, stating that the Cuban government is in dire financial straits and seeking American assistance. Trump indicated that US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is conducting negotiations with Cuba, which he characterised as lacking money, oil, and food whilst facing severe economic difficulties.

Pulomas Tower Ready for Market with TOD Integration and Hospital Connectivity

PT Pulo Mas Jaya has announced the readiness of Pulomas Tower (PMJ Land Tower), a 17-storey mixed-use residential development in East Jakarta, for market launch. The project exemplifies Transit Oriented Development with direct integration to Columbia Asia Hospital and proximity to planned MRT Jakarta Phase 3 and LRT Jakarta Phase 1B routes, whilst comprising serviced apartments, retail space, and office facilities across 23,000 square metres.

Ahmad Ali on PSI Semarang Leadership Exodus: Ripples of Central Java Invasion

The chairperson of the Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI), Ahmad Ali, has attributed reports of the mass resignation of PSI Semarang branch leadership to sensationalised coverage, suggesting it reflects internal tensions as the party attempts to expand into Central Java. Ali has downplayed the incident as normal growing pains for a relatively new party, claiming that several resigned officials have already returned after receiving clarification on party procedures and governance structure.

Bali Police Food Task Force Monitors Essential Commodity Prices and Stock Levels

The Bali Regional Police's Food Task Force is conducting direct monitoring of essential commodity prices and stock availability across traditional markets, modern shops, and shopping centres throughout Bali. The task force is working alongside other relevant agencies to check prices of key items including rice, cooking oil, chillies, shallots, garlic, and meat, whilst also ensuring that hoarding and unjustifiable price increases do not occur.

Israeli Forces Detain Sheikh Rani Abu Sbeih at Al-Aqsa Mosque Gate During Friday Prayers

Israeli military forces detained prominent Palestinian cleric Sheikh Rani Abu Sbeih at the gates of Al-Aqsa Mosque in occupied East Jerusalem on Friday evening as thousands of worshippers gathered for prayers during Ramadan.

Ministry of Agriculture Emphasises Tobacco Commodity's Contribution to State Foreign Exchange

Indonesia's Ministry of Agriculture has stressed tobacco's crucial role in generating foreign exchange and driving rural economies, with tobacco products contributing approximately 280 trillion rupiah in excise revenues and supporting over 4 million people directly.

West Java Governor Secures Backing for Rp2 Trillion Loan to Bridge Fiscal Deficit

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has proposed borrowing Rp2 trillion from Bank bjb to address a fiscal shortfall in the 2026 regional budget, a plan supported by PDI Perjuangan West Java Chair Ono Surono. The loan is necessary due to central government cuts in transfer allocations of Rp2.4 trillion, unpaid revenue-sharing funds dating to 2023, and unmet local revenue targets.

Sari Roti Producer Enters Livestock Feed Manufacturing Sector Using Redundant Assets

PT Nippon Indosari Corpindo Tbk (ROTI), a publicly-listed bread producer, plans to expand operations into livestock feed manufacturing under KBLI classification 10801. The company intends to leverage existing factory investments and workforce whilst utilising redundant assets to generate additional revenue and increase shareholder value, with shareholder approval expected at an extraordinary general meeting on 7 April 2026.

Giant Chasm Appears in Aceh Resembling a "Torn Earth" – What Does It Signify?

A massive chasm has appeared in Pondok Balek Village, Central Aceh, prompting geological investigation by Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN).

Attorney General's Asset Recovery Board Auctions Property from BLBI Bank Harapan Sentosa Convict

Indonesia's Attorney General's Asset Recovery Board (BPA) has successfully auctioned a property seized from convicted officials in the Bank Harapan Sentosa BLBI corruption case. The 541 square metre land and building in East Jakarta, owned by convict Eko Edi Putranto, sold for IDR 12.396 billion through electronic auction on 26 February. The action represents ongoing asset recovery efforts against those convicted in one of Indonesia's most significant banking corruption cases.

Shift in Golden Hours: Sehri Time Now Becomes Peak Online Shopping Period

Ramadan is fundamentally reshaping online shopping patterns in Indonesia, with Lazada Indonesia reporting that 3 AM has become the busiest transaction period as consumers browse and shop during sehri (pre-dawn meal), followed by a second spike at 7 PM after breaking the fast. The platform has responded by aligning promotional campaigns with these new shopping behaviours, capitalising on increased consumer spending during Ramadan when salary and holiday allowance disbursements coincide.

When Students at Special Needs School in Bekasi Sell Takjil Using Sign Language, Smiles Greet Customers

Students from SLB Kembar Karya Pembangunan III in Bekasi are selling homemade takjil and beverages during Ramadan, using sign language to communicate with customers. The school principal emphasises that the initiative, launched for the first time this Ramadan, aims to build student confidence, independence, and foster community acceptance of students with hearing and speech impairments.

Maluku Provincial Government Develops Real-Time Attendance System to Enhance Civil Servant Discipline

Maluku Provincial Government is accelerating digital transformation by implementing an integrated real-time attendance system for civil servants to improve discipline, workforce data accuracy, and performance-based decision-making. The Regional Personnel Agency (BKD) is deploying an online attendance ecosystem that connects all government units and will gradually integrate with the Personnel Management Information System.

Chinese Steel Dominates 55% of Domestic Market as Local Manufacturers Voice Concerns

Chinese steel manufacturers control approximately 55% of Indonesia's domestic steel market, flooding the region with surplus production exacerbated by US-China trade tensions that have redirected Chinese exports away from Western markets. Local steel producers face severe competitive disadvantages due to Chinese government subsidies that artificially lower prices and many Chinese products failing to meet Indonesian National Standards (SNI).

Indonesia and Japan strengthen supply chain cooperation amid global turmoil

Indonesia and Japan have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthen economic partnership and regional supply chain stability through the Second Indonesia-Japan Cooperation Dialogue (IJCD), held at the Foreign Ministry in Jakarta. Both nations agreed to enhance collaboration in clean energy, digital economy, strategic infrastructure, and emerging technologies to support resilient economic growth amid global uncertainty.

IHSG This Week: Corrected Amid Strengthening BEI Transaction Activity

The Composite Stock Price Index (IHSG) declined 0.44% during the week of 23-27 February 2026, closing at 8,235.485, despite increased transaction activity on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (BEI). Daily average transaction value surged 25.35% to Rp29.52 trillion, with daily trading volume rising 8.55% to 51.02 billion shares, whilst market capitalisation contracted 1.03% to Rp14.787 trillion. Foreign investors recorded net selling of Rp694.

IDC Research: Global Smartphone Market Faces Bleak 2026

International Data Corporation predicts the global smartphone market will experience its worst year in 2026, with shipments plummeting 12.9 per cent annually to just 1.12 billion units—the lowest level in over a decade. The primary driver is a global memory crisis, with limited memory supply coupled with high demand pushing average smartphone prices up 14 per cent to a record $523, forcing manufacturers to focus on premium models whilst the budget segment faces permanent structural challenges.

PT PAL to Build Over 20 Ships This Year for State-Owned Enterprises

PT PAL Indonesia will construct more than 20 ships this year exclusively for state-owned enterprises (SOEs) under a government directive requiring all shipping sector SOEs to procure vessels from PT PAL. The initiative aims to develop the domestic shipbuilding and maritime support industries by involving over 100 supporting companies and distributing work across multiple shipyards, whilst the company emphasises this is protective industrial policy rather than monopolistic practice.

MBG and the narrative of education budget cuts

The Indonesian government has refuted claims that the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme is cutting education budgets, arguing that education funding has actually increased from Rp665 trillion in 2024 to Rp724.3 trillion in 2025, with further growth expected to Rp757.8 trillion in 2026.

Misbakhun on Challenges Facing Young People in Social Media Era: Beware Information Distortion

Mukhamad Misbakhun, Chairman of Commission XI of the Indonesian House of Representatives, has warned young people about the dangers of information distortion in the digital age, calling for improved media literacy and critical evaluation of online content.

Rush! This Programme Is Free for Senior High School and Vocational School Graduates, Offering Numerous Facilities

The Indonesian Ministry of Manpower has launched the 2026 National Vocational Training Programme, a free government initiative aimed at enhancing workforce competencies and employability skills for high school and vocational school graduates.

Foreign Ministry Urges Board of Peace Membership Fees Not to Hinder Indonesia's Gaza Assistance Efforts

Indonesia's Foreign Ministry has clarified that the country's participation in the Board of Peace (BoP) is solely aimed at assisting Gaza's civilian population, and that administrative disputes over membership fees should not obstruct the organisation's mandate.

Sucor AM Achieves Strong Business Growth - Investment

Sucor Asset Management (Sucor AM) achieved outstanding growth in assets under management in 2025, with AUM expanding 97.61% to reach Rp 45.22 trillion, substantially outperforming the Indonesian mutual fund industry's 32.84% growth rate. The company expanded its distribution network through partnerships with major banks and financial institutions, whilst growing its investor base to 850,000 investors.

Tesso Nilo National Park Authority Investigates Death of Elephant Calf

A young wild Sumatran elephant was discovered dead in Tesso Nilo National Park's Lancang Kuning Resort on 26 February, with initial examination suggesting death occurred more than a week prior. The head of the national park authority indicates preliminary findings suggest the death resulted from a leg infection, likely related to a snare, with ongoing medical investigation to confirm the cause scientifically.

Chronology of Debate between Pigai and Mahfud MD over Free Nutritious Meals Programme and Human Rights Violations

Indonesia's Minister of Human Rights, Natalius Pigai, has engaged in a public debate with legal scholar Mahfud MD over the government's Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme and whether opposition to it constitutes a violation of human rights. Mahfud countered that whilst providing free meals aligns with human rights, mismanagement and corruption in implementing such programmes also constitute human rights violations.

Deputy Minister of Communications and Digital Affairs Affirms Postal Service Integration to Reduce Logistics Costs

The Indonesian Deputy Minister of Communications and Digital Affairs has emphasised that integrating commercial postal services with demand-based delivery services is a concrete step to reduce national logistics costs, which remain above 14 per cent of GDP. The transportation and warehousing sector grows at 8.98 per cent annually and handles approximately 7 million parcels daily, whilst high logistics costs directly impact commodity prices, UMKM competitiveness, and consumer shipping fees.

Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Asks East Kalimantan Governor to Reconsider 8.5 Billion Rupiah Official Vehicle Budget

Indonesia's Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Bima Arya has publicly requested that East Kalimantan Governor Rudy Mas'ud reconsider the 8.5 billion rupiah budget allocation for an official gubernatorial vehicle, urging adherence to a February 2025 circular emphasising urgency, necessity, and public benefit in regional budgeting.

BRI targets facilitating tile manufacturers in Majalengka worth Rp 1-2 billion in support of national roof-tiling programme

State-owned Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) will support the government's National Roof-Tiling Programme by facilitating financing worth Rp 1-2 billion for small and medium-sized tile manufacturers in Jatiwangi, Majalengka. BRI will serve as a financial intermediary between tile craftspeople and property developers, with plans to reach approximately 200 UMKM producers in the region.

DPRD Member's Home in Bogor Regency Narrowly Spared from Burglary Attempt

A home belonging to a Bogor Regency DPRD (Regional House of Representatives) member in Tugu Selatan Village, Cisarua District was targeted by burglars on 27 February 2026, but the perpetrators fled when spotted by the house guard. The two suspects arrived by motorcycle, with one attempting to break through the fence before being detected and escaping without causing damage.

NTB Provincial Government Prepares Revitalisation Scheme for Traditional Bayan House Following Fire Destruction

The West Nusa Tenggara Provincial Government is preparing a funding scheme to revitalise a traditional Bayan house (Bale Beleq Timuk Orong) in East Bayan Village, North Lombok, which was completely destroyed by fire on 19 February 2026, resulting in losses estimated at IDR 1.15 billion.

The Charm of the Ancient Bondan Mosque in Indramayu, Legendarily Built in One Night

The Darussajidin Mosque in Bondan Village, Indramayu, is the oldest architectural heritage in Indramayu Regency, established in 1414 CE by Islamic preacher Syeh Datul Kahfi and officially designated as a cultural heritage building at the regency level in 2022. According to local legend, the mosque was constructed in a single night and features a wooden drum reportedly audible from the Cirebon palace, serving as both a centre for Islamic preaching and civilisational development for centuries.

Kepok Bananas from North Sumatra Break into Malaysian Market as Trade Minister Encourages SMEs to Go Global

Trade Minister Budi Santoso officially released nine tonnes of kepok bananas valued at approximately IDR 270 million for export to Malaysia, marking a milestone for Indonesian micro, small, and medium enterprises (SMEs). The initiative is part of the "UMKM Bisa Ekspor" programme, which facilitates business matching between domestic SMEs and foreign buyers, with nearly 70 per cent of participating enterprises previously having no export experience.

Public Works Minister assures no potholes on western Pantura toll road 10 days before Eid

Public Works Minister Dody Hanggodo has pledged that all potholes will be repaired on the western Pantura (North Coast) toll road in Java by 10 days before Eid 2026. The ministry reports that the number of potholes on the national highway has been reduced from approximately 7,000 to 2,500, with comprehensive infrastructure preparations underway including 76 operational toll roads and multiple traffic management measures to facilitate smooth Eid holiday travel.

With This Economic Engine, the US Grows Richer from the Ukraine-Russia War

The United States' defence industrial base (DIB) represents a crucial economic engine contributing approximately 1.5% to US GDP whilst generating $995 billion in total business activity in 2024. Driven by surging demand from Ukraine, US military equipment exports reached a record $318.7 billion in fiscal 2024, with the country's global market share increasing from 35% to 43% over four years, cementing America's position as the world's largest military equipment exporter.

Police Auditor Reveals Identity of Man Who Sent Threatening Messages to Depok Firefighter

Senior Police Auditor Kombes Pol Manang Soebeti has identified Wawan Gunawan, a casual labourer born in the 1980s, as the person behind threatening messages sent to Depok firefighter Khairul Umam following his educational video about helmets as personal protective equipment.

Parental strategies for guiding children in the digital space

The Indonesian Ministry of Communication and Digital, alongside digital literacy advocates, has shared strategies for parents to guide their children safely in digital spaces, emphasising open communication, written agreements on device usage, and parental control features.

Don't Wait for Problems: The Right Time to Replace Your Car's Brake Fluid

With the mudik (homecoming) travel season approaching, car owners should prioritise maintenance of their brake systems, particularly replacing brake fluid at recommended intervals. Experts advise that brake fluid should typically be replaced every 40,000 kilometres, or sooner if it appears discoloured or cloudy, as degraded fluid with high water content can cause vapour lock and brake failure in hot conditions.

Batang District Adopts Japanese Waste Management Model with Village-Operated Enterprise Waste Bag Sales

Batang District Government in Central Java has introduced a new waste management scheme modelled on Japanese practices, whereby residents purchase designated waste bags sold by village-owned enterprises (BUMDes) to help control household waste volumes.

One Thousand Iftar Meals Prepared at Sunda Kelapa Mosque

Sunda Kelapa Grand Mosque in Jakarta has prepared 1,000 portions of iftar meals during Ramadhan, with provisions ranging up to 1,300 servings. The meals consist of complete rice packets with side dishes rather than simple sweetened snacks, and the menu is varied daily. The mosque also organises cultural events including "Ramadankustik" and a Ramadan bazaar in collaboration with local government agencies.

400 Participants Progress to National Selection Stage for SMA Kemala Taruna Bhayangkara

Four hundred top-scoring participants have advanced to the national stage of the 2026/2027 admissions selection process for SMA Kemala Taruna Bhayangkara, with the centralized selection to proceed in April. The selection process employs the Nusantara Standard Test (NST) methodology and Item Response Theory scoring, drawing talent from 28 provinces across Indonesia with representation from both public and private schools. The advancing cohort, comprising 62.75 per cent male and 37.

Deputy Chief of Army Staff provides motivation to all territorial development unit commanders

Lieutenant General Muhammad Saleh Mustafa, Deputy Chief of the Indonesian Army General Staff, addressed commanders of territorial development infantry brigades and battalions, emphasising the importance of balancing combat capabilities with territorial development work. He stressed that success depends on strong coordination with territorial officials, particularly village military coordinators (Babinsa), who are crucial in maintaining regional stability.

Ecosystem of Reliable Vocational Training Institutions in East Nusa Tenggara Supports Workforce Development

The Indonesian Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education has launched a new regulation establishing quality standards for vocational training institutions, particularly in East Nusa Tenggara Province, to ensure graduates are competitive in both domestic and international labour markets.

Prabowo Urged to Exit Board of Peace; Expert Says Palestine Respects Indonesia's Strategy

Amid domestic pressure for President Prabowo Subianto to withdraw Indonesia from the Board of Peace (BoP), a geopolitical expert argues that Indonesia's participation is a constitutional and internationally recognised strategic move.

Ukrainian Tourist Allegedly Kidnapped in Bali; Six Foreign Nationals Become Suspects and Placed on Wanted List

A 28-year-old Ukrainian national has gone missing, allegedly kidnapped in Bali, prompting Indonesian police to establish six foreign nationals as suspects and coordinate with Interpol. Investigators traced suspicious vehicles and discovered blood evidence at a villa in Tabanan, believed to be the location where the victim recorded videos that circulated on social media. Police have issued a red notice to Interpol for the six suspects identified as RM, BK, AS, VN, SM, and DH.

Hearing Verdict in Marcella Santoso Cooking Oil Graft Case Postponed to 3 March

The verdict hearing in the alleged bribery and money laundering case involving Marcella Santoso and three co-defendants has been postponed from 2 March to 3 March 2026, with the presiding judge requesting additional time for deliberation. On the same date, the court will also deliver verdicts in a related case involving three defendants accused of obstructing the investigation into allegations surrounding palm oil, tin, and sugar import matters.

PLN Journalist Awards 2025 Recognises 18 Outstanding Works

PT PLN (Persero) has announced the winners of the PLN Journalist Awards 2025, which received 1,329 submissions from across Indonesia with 18 selected as award winners across six categories. The awards, themed "Sovereign Energy for a Stronger Indonesia," nearly tripled participation compared to 2020 and introduced a new "Indonesia Top 100 Journalists" scheme to expand access and ensure fair recognition of journalists nationwide.

After Rudy Mas'ud, East Kalimantan DPRD Chairman Allocates Rp 6.8 Billion for Official Vehicle

East Kalimantan's Regional Representative Council (DPRD) Chairman Hasanuddin Mas'ud has allocated approximately Rp 6.8 billion for an official vehicle, drawing scrutiny following the Governor's separate Rp 8.5 billion official vehicle purchase.

AKBP Didik Said to Have Received Security Money from Drug Trafficker Koko Erwin

The Bareskrim's Narcotics Crime Directorate has disclosed allegations that former Bima City Police Chief AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro received protection money from drug trafficker Koko Erwin, allegedly channelled through the former Bima City Police Narcotics Chief AKP Malaungi.

Bank Director in Depok Charged with Embezzling Deposits and Fabricating Fictitious Loans Worth Billions

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has completed its investigation into fraud at PT Bank Perkreditan Rakyat (BPR) Panca Dana in Depok, charging three individuals including the former chief executive with embezzling depositor funds totalling Rp14 billion and fabricating 660 fictitious loan facilities worth Rp32.4 billion. The suspects face charges under Indonesia's banking law with potential sentences of up to 15 years imprisonment and fines of up to Rp5 billion.

Jakarta to Welcome Nyepi 2026 with Ogoh-Ogoh Parade and Penjor Installation at HI Roundabout

Jakarta's provincial government plans to hold the first-ever Nyepi celebration at the iconic HI Roundabout on 19 March 2026, featuring ogoh-ogoh processions and traditional penjor installations. Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo emphasised this initiative as a commitment to religious equality and tolerance, ensuring all major religious celebrations receive appropriate public space recognition in the capital.

US urges citizens to leave Iran immediately and bans travel to the country

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has urged all American citizens to immediately leave Iran and banned further travel to the country, designating Iran as a state sponsor of unlawful detention following an executive order from President Donald Trump.

Indonesian SMEs Record Potential Transaction Worth Rp10.76 Billion at UK Fair

Nine Indonesian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) recorded potential transactions worth 640,750 US dollars (approximately Rp10.76 billion) at the Spring Fair 2026 in the United Kingdom, according to the Ministry of Trade's Trade Attaché in London. The results reflect strong buyer interest in Indonesian products, particularly in home decoration, fashion and lifestyle sectors, with the UK currently ranking 15th as a destination for Indonesian textile exports with a 1.

Daughter of Former Police Chief Leaves PDIP, Joins PSI Following Visit to Jokowi

Nina Agustina, daughter of former National Police Chief General (Ret.) Da'i Bachtiar and former Indramayu Regent, has defected from the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) to join the Solidarity Indonesia Party (PSI) following a meeting with President Joko Widodo.

Brigade Joxzin Member Killed in Home Attack Following Rivalry Challenge

Kitin Yoga Tama Rustamaji, a 36-year-old member of the Brigade Joxzin civic organisation, was murdered in his home in Bantul, Yogyakarta in February whilst sleeping, with the assailant striking him with a machete. Prior to the killing, Rustamaji had allegedly been involved in rivalry challenges with another group, though the Brigade Joxzin's legal representative stated the victim had caused no problems within the organisation and police investigations remain ongoing.

Head of DPR Commission XI States There Are No Dead Ends in Politics

Mukhamad Misbakhun, Head of the DPR's Commission XI, has stated that politics always offers alternative policy choices rather than dead ends, with decision-makers able to select options that maximise benefits whilst minimising harm.

Removing Stigma: Special Needs School in Bekasi Trains Students in Entrepreneurship During Ramadhan

A special needs school (SLB) in Bekasi is running an entrepreneurship programme during Ramadhan, with students selling homemade food and beverages to challenge societal stigma and demonstrate their capabilities. The initiative, launched by SLB Kembar Karya Pembangunan III, aims to equip students with independence and self-employment skills beyond their schooling years. School leadership reports growing community support and enthusiasm for the student-run venture since its launch.

Public Works Minister Ensures Western Pantura Route Will Be Pothole-Free Before Eid Holiday

Public Works Minister Dody Hanggodo has pledged to clear remaining potholes on the western Pantura (North Coast) highway before the 2026 Eid exodus, with the number of defects reduced from 7,000 to 2,500.

Kahf Launches IQRO' Redesign Project to Expand Qur'anic Literacy

Kahf has launched a redesigned version of the iconic IQRO' method, the foundational learning material for Qur'anic reading used across Indonesia and Southeast Asia for over four decades. The redesign modernises the visual presentation and approach whilst preserving the original methodology, responding to a 2023 national survey showing Indonesia's Qur'anic literacy index at 66.04 whilst highlighting persistent gaps in tajweed proficiency and reading fluency.

Venue Distribution for PON 2028: West Nusa Tenggara 26 Sports, East Nusa Tenggara 22 Sports, Jakarta 26 Sports

The National Sports Week (PON) XXII/2028 sports venues have been allocated across three provinces: West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) and Jakarta will each host 26 sports, whilst East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) will host 22. The distribution was agreed upon at a coordination meeting at the Indonesian National Olympic Committee (KONI) and follows an efficiency-focused approach, with Jakarta serving as a supporting province to avoid unnecessary infrastructure development costs.

NTB Provincial Government Requests Additional Livestock Transport Vessels

The West Nusa Tenggara Provincial Government has formally requested the Ministry of Transportation to provide additional livestock transport vessels ahead of Eid al-Adha celebrations to prevent cattle congestion at regional ports.

Government Launches Free National Vocational Training Programme

The Indonesian government has officially launched the National Vocational Training Programme on 27 February 2026, designed to enhance the work competency of secondary school graduates to meet labour market demands. The initiative is initially targeting 20,000 participants from the past three years' SMA/SMK cohorts, with budget allocated from the state budget for up to 70,000 trainees. The government plans to scale up the programme following evaluation of the pilot phase.

US Dollar Weakens as Asian Currencies Strengthen, Rupiah Modest in Gains

Most Asian currencies appreciated against the US dollar in February 2026, with the Philippine peso leading at 2.04% gain, whilst the Indonesian rupiah recorded only 0.12% monthly appreciation to Rp16,760/US$. The mixed performance occurred despite the US dollar index (DXY) strengthening 0.64% monthly, driven by higher-than-expected US producer price inflation and geopolitical tensions affecting safe-haven demand.

Indonesia Urges Palestinian Authority Involvement in Gaza Through Board of Peace

The Palestinian Ambassador to Indonesia, Abdulfattah A.K. Al-Sattiri, affirmed Indonesia's pivotal role in the Board of Peace, highlighting that Indonesia has been actively advocating for Palestinian Authority presence in Gaza. The ambassador emphasised that only Palestinians themselves and honest nations like Indonesia can protect Palestinian people, whilst reiterating the Palestinian population's urgent needs for water, medicine, schools and universities alongside an end to the conflict.

United States and India Ready to Invest in Indonesia's Mining Sector

The United States and India are preparing significant investments in Indonesia's critical mineral sector, with India planning to develop mineral resources and the US moving forward under a reciprocal trade agreement signed by Presidents Prabowo and Trump.

JCI Opens Lower Amid MSCI Rebalancing

The Jakarta Composite Index fell 0.29 percent to 8,211.31 on 27 February 2026, driven by profit-taking ahead of the weekend and technical pressure from MSCI index rebalancing. Market weakness was compounded by concerns over the government's rising debt interest burden, which S&P Global Ratings warned has exceeded 15 percent of state revenue, and global uncertainty surrounding AI investment returns and geopolitical risks.

The Dilemma of Padang Restaurants in Batam: Squeezed by Soaring Beef Prices Ahead of Ramadan

Padang restaurant operators in Batam are facing severe economic pressure as beef prices have surged to over 110,000 rupiah per kilogram for frozen meat and up to 150,000 rupiah per kilogram for fresh meat, significantly above the normal range of 80,000-90,000 rupiah. Small business owners are forced to reduce purchase volumes and cut profit margins, while meat vendors report sales drops of nearly 50%, and authorities have adopted a passive stance toward price stabilisation.

Shots to the Leg Stop Ko Erwin, Drug Trafficker and Ex-Chief of Bima City Police

Erwin bin Iskandar, a major drug trafficker linked to a former Bima City Police Chief, was arrested by Indonesia's Narcotics Crime Directorate whilst attempting to flee to Malaysia by traditional boat near Asahan, North Sumatra on 26 February 2026. The arrest was made just in time as Erwin was about to cross into Malaysian waters, with officers firing shots at his leg to prevent his escape.

Central Java Province Ready to Supply Renewable Energy in Batang Industrial Zone to Boost Investment

Central Java Provincial Government, through PT Jateng Petro Energi (JPEN), has committed to supporting renewable energy business development in the Batang Integrated Industrial Zone (KITB), signing a memorandum of understanding on 27 February 2026.

Police Anti-Narcotics Directorate Claims Former Police Chief Didik Received "Security Money" from Drug Suspect Koko Erwin

Indonesia's National Police (Polri) Anti-Narcotics Directorate has alleged that former Bima City Police Chief AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro received "security money" (protection money) from suspected drug trafficker Koko Erwin, channelled through subordinate AKP Malaungi.

Netflix Withdraws as Paramount Officially Acquires Warner Bros for Rp 1.7 Quadrillion

Paramount Global has announced a $111 billion (approximately Rp 1.7 quadrillion) acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery at $31 per share, with funding backed by the Ellison family, RedBird Capital, and major banks. Netflix withdrew from the bidding process, deeming the acquisition price no longer financially attractive, leaving Paramount as the successful bidder pending regulatory approval.

Preventing Brake Failure on Automatic Vehicles on Downhill Roads

Brake failure on automatic vehicles descending hills is commonly caused by excessive heat in the braking system from continuous brake use. Prevention involves utilising engine braking by shifting the transmission to lower gears (3, 2, or L) before entering downhill sections, whilst maintaining proper brake conditions and avoiding neutral gear positioning.

How to Determine Which Certificate is Valid When Land Certificates are Duplicated

Indonesia's land certification system continues to be plagued by cases of duplicate certificates issued for the same parcel of land, often due to the lack of digitisation of cadastral records in the past.

Testing a Trade Agreement with the US: Will Indonesia Gain or Lose?

Indonesia's Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART) with the United States, signed on 19 February 2026, reduces additional tariffs from 32 per cent to 19 per cent and exempts 1,819 Indonesian tariff lines from surcharges, providing short-term protection for labour-intensive exports.

UI Economist Calculates US Trade Diversion Potential to Indonesia Reaching $7.11 Billion

A University of Indonesia economist has projected that US trade diversion to Indonesia could reach $7.11 billion, driven by lower reciprocal tariffs on Indonesian products compared to competing nations such as Brazil and China. The manufacturing sector stands to gain approximately $3.38 billion, with textiles and agriculture contributing $2.

Ministry of Transport Highlights Domestic Flight Tickets Routed via Foreign Transit

The Ministry of Transport is pushing to tighten or ban the practice by Online Travel Agents of selling domestic flight tickets routed through foreign transit hubs, arguing this violates cabotage regulations and confuses consumers.

Campus Confirms Student Who Stabbed Fellow Student at UIN Suska Riau Will Be Expelled

UIN Suska Riau campus has confirmed that student Raihan Mufazzar, who stabbed fellow student Faradilla Ayu Pramesti, will be expelled for committing a serious violation of campus code of conduct. The campus ethics committee is expected to reach a decision within one month, whilst the perpetrator's case is being handled by police authorities.

Police respond to student defacing female officer's headscarf during demonstration

The Jakarta Metro Police have condemned a student's act of defacing a female officer's hijab during a demonstration at National Police Headquarters on 27 February, stating that religious and professional attire should not be used as a medium for provocative expression.

73 households affected by Bulak Kapal Flyover project; compensation payouts targeted for March–April 2026

Bekasi's Housing, Settlement Areas and Land Agency has identified 73 households impacted by land acquisition for the Bulak Kapal Flyover construction project, with properties distributed across three subdistricts. The agency is currently conducting land measurements in coordination with the National Land Agency, with compensation valuations to follow, aiming to commence compensation payments between March and April 2026.

North Sumatra Settlement Development Awarded Environmental Certification

The Green Building Council Indonesia (GBCI) has awarded Gold-level Greenship Neighborhood certification to Royal Botanica Park Sumatera's Grandis and Livingston clusters in North Sumatra, recognising their integrated and measured development approach. The certification reflects the project's achievement of 73 points in performance-based assessment across sustainability metrics including land ecology, connectivity, water and waste management, and energy efficiency.

Indonesia Advocates for Palestinian Authority Presence in Gaza

Palestinian Ambassador to Indonesia Abdulfattah A.K. Al-Sattiri has affirmed that Indonesia's participation in the Gaza Board of Peace (BoP) demonstrates the country's commitment to advocating for Palestinian authority presence in the Gaza Strip.

Semarang Mayor Expands Free Private School Scheme

Semarang Mayor Agustina Wilujeng has expanded the free private school programme for the 2026 academic year, increasing partner private schools from 129 to 133 institutions across kindergarten, primary, and junior secondary levels. The expansion will benefit thousands of students through operational assistance grants (BOS) totalling Rp25.79 billion, whilst the city also strengthens student admission regulations to eliminate nepotism and ensure transparent, fair access to education.

Landslide at Bromo: Occurred at Bukit Kedaluh and Route Now Passable

A landslide struck the Bromo tourist area on 25 February 2026, with Bukit Kedaluh experiencing the most severe damage and temporarily blocking access to Penanjakan Peak via Pasuruan. Heavy rainfall and strong winds over 15 hours triggered three landslide points along the main tourist route, burying seven motorcycles but causing no fatalities.

HPE Gold Rises Driven by Global Central Bank Purchases

Indonesia's export reference price (HPE) for gold rose in early March 2026 to $161,568.53 per kilogram, driven by increased safe-haven demand and purchases from global central banks amid mounting economic challenges. The Ministry of Trade attributed the rise to growing international economic headwinds, whilst copper concentrate prices declined slightly and silver fell significantly during the same period.

Will BPNT March 2026 be Disbursed? Check Schedule and How to View Recipients

The Indonesian government has begun disbursing Phase 1 of the 2026 Non-Cash Food Assistance (BPNT) programme, providing Rp 600,000 per recipient family for the January–March 2026 period through the Family Welfare Card (KKS). While some beneficiaries have already received funds in February 2026, others are still awaiting disbursement in March, with citizens able to verify their status through the official Kemensos website or mobile application.

Sumatra's Infrastructure Gradually Recovers Following Disaster

Indonesia's Infrastructure Minister Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono announced that disaster recovery and reconstruction efforts across Sumatra—including Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra—are proceeding on schedule with significant progress reported. As of 23 February 2026, all damaged national roads and bridges in the three provinces have returned to functional operation, with power and telecommunications networks also showing positive recovery trends.

Hot Meals Distributed in Gaza; Ramadan Aid Reaches Aceh Tamiang and Sukabumi

Masjid Nusantara has distributed Ramadan aid packages across three regions: 500 hot meal packages in Gaza to residents and refugees, 200 iftar packages in flood-affected Aceh Tamiang for disaster recovery communities, and 100 packages in rural Sukabumi. The initiative addresses critical food security needs during Ramadan across conflict zones, disaster-affected areas, and remote communities, whilst supporting local economies through sourcing ingredients locally.

Klamby and Wardah Present Support for Quality Shopping Trends at Lazada Mega Sale

Lazada Indonesia has partnered with local brands Klamby and Wardah to launch special Ramadan 2026 collections, reflecting a shift in consumer behaviour towards quality and long-term product value rather than discount-focused purchasing. Klamby's Nala collection features matching family sets inspired by Central Javanese and Yogyakarta culture, whilst Wardah focuses on beauty solutions for Ramadan and Lebaran with skincare essentials including serums, moisturisers, and sunscreen. The Lazada 3.

Bali Police: Vehicle Renter in Ukrainian National Abduction Used Fake Passport

Bali Police have identified a Nigerian national (CH) as a suspect in the kidnapping of Ukrainian national Ihor Komarav on 15 February, who allegedly rented vehicles using a fake passport for six foreign nationals still at large. The suspect was arrested on 23 February in West Nusa Tenggara after renting a Toyota Avanza and two motorcycles, claiming he was paid 6 million rupiah to do so without knowledge of criminal intent.

Indonesian Neighbourhood Shops Collapsing Due to Modern Retail, How?

Street vendors and neighbourhood shop owners in Indonesia claim that the rapid expansion of modern retail chains is devastating traditional commerce, with one modern retail outlet allegedly destroying 20-50 neighbourhood shops. The General Chair of the Indonesian Street Vendors Association argues that government policies since 2007 and economic digitalisation have contributed to a dramatic decline in traditional markets, with the number of neighbourhood shops falling from 6.

Police to Review Vehicle Repossession Regulations to Prevent Debt Collectors from Acting Arbitrarily

Following a stabbing incident involving a lawyer during a vehicle repossession attempt in Tangerang Selatan, the Jakarta Metropolitan Police announced plans to review regulations governing debt collector operations. The review aims to ensure vehicle repossession procedures are conducted in an orderly manner and do not resemble criminal extortion, whilst also encouraging financing institutions to issue clearer authorisations to debt collectors.

PSI Strongly Rejects Petition to Bar Presidential Families from Running: Discriminatory!

The Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI) has strongly opposed a petition filed with the Constitutional Court seeking to prohibit families of the sitting President and Vice President from running in presidential elections, terming it discriminatory. PSI chairman Ahmad Ali argued that no citizen should face legal discrimination based on their family ties, emphasising that all Indonesians, regardless of their parentage, deserve equal opportunity to participate in democratic elections.

Two Farmers from Bima Arrested by Police Over Methamphetamine Transaction

Two farmers in Bima regency, Nusa Tenggara Barat, were arrested by police following a methamphetamine distribution investigation in Langgudu subdistrict. Police seized 0.61 grammes of methamphetamine and mobile phone evidence containing communications related to drug transactions between the two suspects.

The Best Stock Investment Applications Throughout 2026

Goldman Sachs forecasts the S&P 500 will rise approximately 12% in 2026, driven by solid earnings per share growth and accommodative monetary policy. Indonesian investors are advised to adopt adaptive, innovation-focused investment approaches with strict risk management, utilising comprehensive trading platforms offering access to global assets, particularly US markets and cryptocurrency sectors.

Series of Criticisms Over Ramadan Free Nutritious Meal Programme

President Prabowo Subianto's flagship free nutritious meal (MBG) programme has faced widespread criticism during Ramadan 2026, with complaints centring on the quality and nutritional value of dry food packages distributed to students.

Perumda TB Tangerang Offers Waiver of Water Bill Arrears Penalties

Perumda Tirta Benteng, Tangerang's municipal water company, has launched three discount packages for residents celebrating the city's 33rd anniversary, including waiver of penalties and administrative sanctions for water bill arrears, free name transfer fees (normally Rp125,000), and complimentary groundwater quality testing.

Lazada Holds Ramadan Mega Sale, Anticipates Surge in Digital Shopping Ahead of Eid

Lazada Indonesia is launching its Ramadan Mega Sale campaign from 2–6 March 2026, with promotional activities running since 16 February through 24 March to capitalise on increased consumer spending during the holy month and Eid al-Fitr. The campaign features discounts up to 95%, zero-interest instalments, vouchers worth up to Rp1.

Strengthening Madrasah Teacher Quality: Collaboration Between Religious Affairs Ministry and British Council

Indonesia's Ministry of Religious Affairs and the British Council have launched their first collaborative initiative to enhance English language competency among madrasah teachers, with 613 educators completing an eight-week professional development programme. The partnership, formalised in November 2025, represents a strategic response to the need for qualified English instruction across Indonesia's 41,833 madrasah schools and supports the broader Indonesia-UK Strategic Partnership.

BNI Prepares IDR 23.97 Trillion in Cash Ahead of Eid 2026

PT Bank Negara Indonesia (BNI) is preparing IDR 23.97 trillion in cash to meet transaction demands during the Eid al-Fitr holiday period (11-24 March 2026), anticipating increased cash withdrawals and spending related to religious holiday celebrations and mass exodus travel. The funds will be allocated across ATMs, cash recycling machines, and branch outlets, with daily cash demand estimated at IDR 1.71 trillion, supported by limited branch operations and extended digital banking services.

PSI Chairman Responds After Kaesang Wished to Become President by Islamic Scholars and Pesantren Students

Ahmad Ali, chairman of the Solidarity Indonesia Party (PSI), responded to religious scholars and pesantren students in Klender, East Jakarta, who prayed for PSI General Chairman Kaesang Pangarep to become President in the future. Ali emphasised that President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka currently hold these positions, leaving no room for Kaesang at present.

Megathrust Rupture: These Indonesian Regions Face Severe Tsunami and Earthquake Risk

Indonesia faces significant seismic risk as it is situated on the Pacific Ring of Fire, where three major tectonic plates converge—the Indo-Australian, Eurasian, and Pacific plates. The country has 13 to 14 identified megathrust segments with the potential to generate major earthquakes ranging from magnitude 7.8 to 9.2, which could trigger devastating tsunamis.

Hengjaya Mineralindo and Residents Restore Morowali Coastline, Marine Biota Re-emerge

Hengjaya Mineralindo, in collaboration with local residents and Halu Oleo University, has successfully rehabilitated the coastal ecosystems of One Ete Village and Bapa Island in Morowali Regency, Central Sulawesi. The programme has yielded significant results, including the transplantation of 8,644 coral units with 70-80 per cent survival rates, restoration of 5,425 mangrove trees with 90.4 per cent survival, and the return of over 20 coral fish species and other marine fauna.

Governor Invites Residents to "Return Home to Jakarta" with Tourism Promotions

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has launched the "Return Home to Jakarta" campaign, encouraging residents to visit the capital city instead of undertaking long-distance travel, with special promotions on hotels, shopping, and attractions running from 27 February to 31 March 2026.

Trade Ministry: Canned gudeg and processed coconut cream from SMEs break into Dutch market

Indonesia's Ministry of Trade has facilitated successful business matching between two domestic SMEs and Dutch importer Interaromat BV, resulting in potential transactions worth 150,000 US dollars for canned gudeg and processed coconut cream products.

Ministry of Religious Affairs Holds Pesantren Breaking Fast Event, Discusses Future Santri Projections

Indonesia's Ministry of Religious Affairs held a breaking fast event and discussion forum at Al-Tsaqafah Pesantren in South Jakarta as part of its Ramadan programme, with officials emphasising that modern santri (Islamic boarding school students) must combine religious scholarship with understanding of governance and nationalism to assume leadership positions.

Ministry of Tourism Enhances Capacity of Tourism Sector Human Resources

Indonesia's Ministry of Tourism is strengthening the capacity of tourism sector public officials through a national stakeholder meeting, with approximately 1,000 participants from 38 provinces. The initiative aims to enhance competencies and professional standards to support Indonesia's Golden 2045 vision and sustainable tourism development amid global volatility.

National Headlines: Criticism of Free Nutritious Meals and Mahfud Md's Response to Pigai

Indonesian news coverage highlights controversy surrounding the government's free nutritious meal programme (MBG), with Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya defending the 2026 budget allocation as approved by parliament, whilst parents in Sragen complain about poor quality meals during Ramadan. Former Coordinating Minister Mahfud Md.

Police Officers Don Caps and Headscarves While Reciting Islamic Salutations During Student Protest at National Police Headquarters

Hundreds of police personnel deployed to manage a student protest at National Police Headquarters in South Jakarta on 27 February 2026 wore white caps and headscarves as a gesture of respect for Ramadhan.

National Road Improvements in Parung Targeted for Completion Within Two Months

Indonesia's Public Works Minister Dody Hanggodo announced that repairs to the national road in Parung, West Java, are targeted for completion within one to two months, covering the stretch from Pasar Parung to Kemang. The minister emphasised that previous patching efforts were temporary and insufficiently comprehensive, and instructed the relevant road authority to conduct complete renovations rather than piecemeal repairs whilst managing weather-related delays.

Scooters Dominate, Non-Scooter Motorcycles Struggle to Gain Market Entry in Indonesia

Yamaha and other motorcycle manufacturers face limited opportunities to introduce non-scooter models in Indonesia due to the overwhelming dominance of automatic scooters in the domestic market. According to Yamaha Indonesia's Public Relations Manager, manufacturers conduct extensive market research before launching new models, and consumer demand heavily favours scooters given Indonesia's traffic conditions and daily mobility needs.

Who Is Obliged to Pay Zakat al-Fitr? This Is Baznas's Explanation

Zakat al-fitr is a mandatory religious obligation for Muslims at the end of Ramadan, with specific criteria determining who must pay it. According to Indonesia's National Zakat Agency (Baznas), those obligated to pay must be Muslim, alive at sunset on the final day of Ramadan, and possess sufficient resources beyond their basic needs through Eid al-Fitr. The Baznas and Ministry of Religious Affairs annually establish the amount of zakat al-fitr as a practical guideline for compliance.

Antam gold soars by Rp40,000 to Rp3,085,000 per gram this Saturday

Antam gold prices surged by Rp40,000 on Saturday to reach Rp3,085,000 per gram, whilst the buyback price also increased to Rp2,864,000 per gram. All gold transactions are subject to income tax (PPh 22) at rates ranging from 0.45% to 3% depending on transaction type and taxpayer status, as regulated under PMK No. 34/PMK.10/2017.

Information on PPPK Stage 3 Opening at BGN is Hoax

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has clarified that information circulating about the opening of Stage 3 selection for Civil Service Contract Employees (PPPK) at the agency is false and did not originate from official channels. The agency warned the public against misinformation and scams, emphasising that all legitimate government recruitment processes are free and official announcements will only come through verified BGN website and social media accounts.

Zakat for the Protection of Fishermen

The Indonesian Ulama Council (MUI) has issued a fatwa permitting zakat, infak, and sadaqah funds to support social security contributions for vulnerable workers, opening a new avenue for integrating religious charity into formal social protection systems. The article advocates for small-scale fishermen to be prioritised under this policy, given their extreme poverty and workplace hazards, whilst highlighting structural gaps between Indonesia's legal protections and operational implementation.

Realising Energy Security: Whose Responsibility?

This opinion piece examines the institutional and policy challenges underlying Indonesia's energy security, arguing that energy resilience is fundamentally a public policy matter requiring clear government frameworks rather than a purely commercial decision for state enterprises.

Transport Minister Hints at Railway Line Reactivation Plans in West Java and Banten

Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi announced plans to reactivate defunct railway lines in West Java and Banten, with West Java taking priority. The Cipatat-Padalarang line (17 km, inactive since 2013) is likely the first candidate for reactivation using a new route, whilst Banten's Rangkasbitung-Pandeglang-Labuan line is expected to boost tourism and economic growth in the region.

Defence Ministry: TNI Deployment to Gaza in Line with Constitution

The Indonesian Defence Ministry's information chief has defended the planned deployment of TNI peacekeeping forces to Gaza, stating it complies with the Constitution and a UN Security Council resolution. The statement responds to the Forum of Retired TNI Officers' rejection of the deployment, who argue it violates constitutional requirements for parliamentary approval and represents an individual presidential agenda rather than state policy.

Update on Mitsubishi Hybrid Vehicle Plans in Indonesia

Mitsubishi Motors will launch its first hybrid model in Indonesia, with production starting in the first half of 2026 and marketing beginning in the second half of the year. The new hybrid vehicles will be manufactured locally at PT Mitsubishi Motors Krama Yudha Indonesia's facility rather than imported, supporting the company's broader global electrification strategy across various markets.

Facts in the Ko Erwin Drug Trafficking Case Implicating Former Bima City Police Chief

Ko Erwin, a major methamphetamine trafficker from West Nusa Tenggara, was arrested in Tanjung Balai, North Sumatra, while attempting to flee to Malaysia via illegal maritime routes after being placed on a wanted list. The case implicates former Bima City Police Chief AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro and former narcotics unit commander AKP Malaungi, with Ko Erwin alleged to have paid Rp 1 billion to secure protection for drug distribution operations.

Half of Housing Loan Programme Quota Disbursed in Two Months, BRI Chief Requests Additional Allocation

PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) has disbursed Rp 3.42 trillion of its Rp 6.10 trillion housing credit programme (KPP) quota within just two months, reaching 25,909 debtors across Indonesia. BRI's Chief Executive Hery Gunardi attributed the rapid uptake to strong demand from micro, small and medium enterprises (UMKM) in the housing sector and indicated the bank may request additional quota allocation from the government.

Hijab Fashion Show and Jakarta Water Fountain Events Set for Eid Celebrations

Jakarta's provincial government will host a series of Ramadhan and Eid celebrations, including a Jakarta Water Fountain light and water spectacle at HI Roundabout on 19 March and Indonesia's first Hijab Fashion Show featuring Tanah Abang textile traders and national designers. The events aim to boost Jakarta's brand as a national creative economy hub, support local SMEs, and stimulate the economy during the religious festival period.

World Gold Price Reaches $5,263 per Ounce, Silver Surges in Tandem

World gold prices have surged above $5,200 per ounce, extending monthly gains amid escalating US-Iran tensions and increased American military deployments in the Middle East, which have driven investors towards safe-haven assets. The rally, which has seen gold prices rise over 20 per cent this year, is also being supported by continuing geopolitical tensions, dollar weakness, and concerns about the Federal Reserve's independence. Silver prices have similarly climbed 6.2 per cent to $93.

The Roles of Parents Versus Grandparents in Child-Rearing: Communication is Key

Differences in parenting approaches between parents and grandparents frequently cause family conflict, according to clinical psychologist Yustinus Joko Dwi Nugroho from DR Oen Solo Baru Hospital. Clear role delineation is essential to prevent intergenerational disputes, with parents responsible for character formation and discipline whilst grandparents provide emotional support without assuming primary caregiving authority.

Indonesia Prepares as Chair of D-8 Summit Through Intensive Coordination

Indonesia is advancing preparations for the 12th Developing-8 (D-8) Summit scheduled for 12-15 April 2026, with the Foreign Ministry spokesperson confirming both internal preparations and intensive coordination with member states.

Palestinian Ambassador from Gaza moved by Indonesia's profound love for Palestine

Palestinian Ambassador to Indonesia Abdulfattah A.K. Al-Sattiri, who takes office in January 2026 as the first ambassador from Gaza, expressed deep appreciation for Indonesia's strong support for the Palestinian people at an iftar event.

OpenAI Secures Record-Breaking Funding of $110 Billion, Amazon as Primary Investor

OpenAI has announced a historic $110 billion funding round, the largest private equity investment in technology company history, with Amazon committing $50 billion as the lead investor alongside Nvidia and SoftBank, each contributing $30 billion. CEO Sam Altman emphasised the funding's importance in meeting escalating artificial intelligence computing demands globally.

Danantara to Announce Waste-to-Energy Project Tender Winners—Green Economy Initiative

The Investment Management Body (BPI) Danantara will announce the winning bidders for the first phase of its waste-to-energy (WtE) projects in four cities—Denpasar, Bekasi, Bogor, and Yogyakarta—in March 2026, with a total investment requirement of at least US$600 million.

50 Per Cent Discount on Electricity Capacity Upgrade Until 10 March 2026, Here Are the Cost Details

State-owned electricity company PT PLN is offering a 50 per cent discount on electricity capacity upgrades through its "Ramadan Bright Eid Peaceful" promotion running from 25 February to 10 March 2026. Residential customers can increase their electricity capacity at half the normal connection cost, with transactions conducted exclusively through the PLN Mobile application.

BYD Denza Z9 GT: World's Longest-Range Electric Vehicle with 1,036 Km Range

Chinese automotive manufacturer BYD has unveiled a refreshed Denza Z9 GT, claiming the world's longest driving range for a pure electric vehicle at 1,036 kilometres under CLTC testing standards, achieved through its 122.496 kWh Blade battery. The updated model offers both battery electric vehicle (BEV) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) configurations with enhanced powertrain options, increased battery capacity, and improved performance capabilities across multiple drive variants.

Labour Minister Claims Holiday Allowance for Ride-hailing Drivers to Improve This Year

Labour Minister Yassierli has stated that ride-hailing application companies have committed to providing better Eid holiday bonuses (BHR) to drivers compared to last year, whilst considering each company's financial flexibility. The minister plans to discuss holiday allowances with President Prabowo Subianto, with payment criteria to differentiate between full-time and part-time drivers based on their activity levels, affecting an estimated 1.2 to 1.5 million active drivers.

Public Works Minister Targets Parung Road to Depok Free of Potholes 7 Days Before Eid

Minister of Public Works Dody Hanggodo has set a target to eliminate all potholes and road damage on the Gandaria-Cilodong to Parung national highway by seven days before Eid 2026, with temporary patching to begin immediately. The National Road Management Agency (BBPJN) has identified 1,463 potholes along the 25.1-kilometre stretch and aims to seal approximately 1,200 of them within five days, whilst permanent repairs requiring 239 billion rupiah remain pending budget allocation.

Kediri-Tulungagung Toll Road Breaks Through, Latest Update on Progress

The Indonesian government, through the Toll Road Regulatory Agency (BPJT) under the Ministry of Public Works and Housing, is accelerating construction of the 44.17-kilometre Kediri-Tulungagung Toll Road in East Java. The project comprises a main 37.35-kilometre main road and a 6.82-kilometre access route to Dhoho Kediri Airport, with airport access sections currently at 57.25% and 42.62% completion respectively.

Government Rice Import Plans from United States Draw Scrutiny and Debate

The Indonesian government's plan to import 1,000 tonnes of rice from the United States has sparked controversy among legislators and stakeholders, who question its timing during the domestic harvest season and its alignment with the country's newly achieved rice self-sufficiency target.

Stabbing Tragedy at UIN Suska Riau: Thesis Hopes Halted by Violent Attack

A female student at Universitas Islam Negeri (UIN) Sultan Syarif Kasim in Riau was stabbed by a fellow student whilst awaiting her thesis proposal seminar scheduling, with the alleged perpetrator motivated by romantic rejection.

Indonesia Remains a Global Investment Magnet

Indonesia is strengthening its position as a prime global investment destination, with projections to become the world's fourth-largest economy attracting massive capital flows from multinational corporations, particularly from China and Europe.

Arrest of Ko Erwin, Drug Trafficker Who Allegedly Paid Rp2.8 Billion to Former Bima City Police Chief

Ko Erwin, a major methamphetamine trafficker, has been arrested by Indonesia's Narcotics Crime Directorate whilst allegedly attempting to flee to Malaysia by sea from Tanjungbalai, North Sumatra. The suspect, who had been on a wanted persons list, is accused of transferring Rp2.8 billion to former Bima City Police Chief Didik Putra Kuncoro, and two accomplices were also apprehended for facilitating his escape.

Ogoh-Ogoh Procession to Take Place at Hotel Indonesia Roundabout During Nyepi

Jakarta's Nyepi celebration on 19 March will be centred at Hotel Indonesia Roundabout, featuring an ogoh-ogoh procession and the installation of penjor (traditional Balinese poles), marking the first time such decorations have been placed at this location.

Public Works Minister targets completion of national road repairs in Parung within 1-2 months

Public Works Minister Dody Hanggodo has set a target of 1-2 months for completion of national road repairs in Parung, Bogor, West Java, which span from Pasar Parung to Kemang. Weather conditions, particularly rainfall, present a significant challenge to the project, as work must be halted during rain to ensure road quality and durability. The 2026 Public Works Ministry budget of Rp118.

CIMB Niaga and Virtusa Complete First Pega Cloud Modernisation to Enhance Customer Banking Experience in Indonesia

CIMB Niaga, Indonesia's second-largest private bank, has successfully completed the first cloud migration programme in the country using Pega Cloud in partnership with Virtusa Corporation. The modernisation initiative improves operational agility, customer service reliability, and positions the bank to support future digital innovation whilst maintaining high security and compliance standards.

Bank Indonesia Acknowledges High Interest Rates Hampering Credit Growth

Bank Indonesia's Senior Deputy Governor Destry Damayanti has acknowledged that relatively high credit interest rates are a key obstacle to credit expansion and national economic growth, despite banks maintaining ample liquidity with a liquid assets ratio of 27.6 per cent and capital adequacy ratios well above regulatory minimums.

Gold Price Surge! Antam Gold Price Jumps Rp 40,000 Today

Antam gold prices have surged Rp 40,000 per gram to Rp 3,085,000 on 28 February 2026, extending a three-day rally. The increase mirrors global gold market strength, with international gold prices closing at US$5,277.29 per troy ounce on 27 February, representing a 1.74% gain and the highest level in the past month.

Gold Prices Today at Pegadaian 28 February 2026: UBS-Galeri 24 Fall in Tandem

Gold prices at Indonesian state-owned pawnshop Pegadaian declined on Saturday 28 February 2026, with UBS and Galeri 24 products falling in line to Rp3,080,000 and Rp3,065,000 per gramme respectively. The decline reflects global market sentiment favouring risk avoidance in early 2026, though the Indonesian rupiah remained stable and world gold prices continued their upward trajectory.

Indonesia's palm oil group urges stronger global trade diplomacy

Indonesia's palm oil producers' association (GAPKI) has called for reinforced trade diplomacy to counter tariff and non-tariff barriers, with the industry pursuing bilateral partnerships to secure market access. This effort is bolstered by the Indonesian government's reciprocal trade agreement with the US, which has reduced import duties to zero for 1,819 Indonesian tariff lines covering agricultural products including palm oil, tropical fruits, coffee, cocoa and spices.

TEI 2026 Targets USD 17.5 Billion in Transactions, Strengthens Global Supply Chain for Indonesian Products

Trade Expo Indonesia 2026, the 41st edition, will be held from 14-18 October 2026 in ICE BSD, Tangerang, Banten, with a transaction target of USD 17.5 billion. The Trade Minister Budi Santoso emphasised that TEI serves as a strategic platform for Indonesian businesses to expand international trade networks and access new markets. The event's strength lies in its curated international buyer approach, which prioritises quality business meetings and genuine export transactions.

DPRD Member Tina Wiryawati Praises West Java Government's Decision Not to Increase Motor Vehicle Tax Rates

Tina Wiryawati, a West Java provincial legislator from the Gerindra Party faction, has endorsed the provincial government's decision to maintain motor vehicle tax (PKB) rates, characterising it as a wise policy that protects citizens' interests amid economic uncertainty. She argues that stable tax rates will encourage compliance whilst reducing financial pressure on lower and middle-income households, particularly those dependent on private vehicles for daily activities and business operations.

MEDIPEEL Appoints Jason Wi as CEO to Drive Global Operational Excellence and Strategic Growth

South Korean beauty brand MEDIPEEL, majority-owned by Morgan Stanley Private Equity Asia, has appointed Jason Wi as Chief Executive Officer to lead a comprehensive operational restructuring and international expansion.

Minister of Marine Affairs Loses Temper During Inspection of Fishing Village in Lombok

Indonesia's Minister of Marine Affairs and Fisheries, Sakti Wahyu Trenggono, angrily confronted contractors over poor construction quality during a visit to the Red and White Fishing Village infrastructure project in East Lombok on 27 February. The minister directly questioned the state-owned enterprise ADHI Karya's work standards and issued stern warnings that defects must be corrected immediately, threatening to escalate the matter to the President if quality standards are not met.

Tangerang City Government Offers Free Public Transport Bus Tayo Service Today

The Tangerang City Government and PT Tangerang Nusantara Global (PT TNG) are offering free Bus Tayo and Bus Si Benteng services across all operating corridors on 28 February 2026 to celebrate the city's 33rd anniversary. The initiative aims to appreciate residents and encourage greater use of public transport to reduce traffic congestion and air pollution, whilst promoting environmentally friendly mobility and strengthening community bonds with local government.

Antam Gold Price Today (28/2) Rises Again by Rp 40,000 per Gram, Check Details

Antam gold prices strengthened on Saturday, 28 February 2026, rising to Rp 3,085,000 per gram, an increase of Rp 40,000 from Friday's price of Rp 3,045,000. The precious metal is available in various weights from 0.5 grams to 1 kilogram, with purchase transactions subject to PPh 22 tax and resale transactions above Rp 10 million subject to a buyback tax deducted from the transaction value.

DoveRunner Expands Southeast Asian Presence with New Jakarta Office

Global mobile application security firm DoveRunner has opened a new regional headquarters in Jakarta, Indonesia, signalling its long-term commitment to the Southeast Asian market amidst accelerating digital transformation. The expansion enables the company to provide localised support to major Indonesian partners including Vidio, Sinarmas, Japfa, and EMTEK Group, whilst addressing increasingly complex cybersecurity threats facing digital enterprises.

Six Toll Roads to Open Free During 2026 Eid Holiday Period

The Indonesian government will open six toll road sections totalling 198 kilometres free of charge during the 2026 Eid holiday exodus and return periods to help manage traffic congestion. The toll roads span routes across Sumatra and Java, with the Ministry of Transport predicting 143.9 million travellers will use roadways during the peak Eid travel periods in March 2026.

AI Skills Become Most Difficult Competency to Find in APME: ManpowerGroup Global Talent Shortage 2026 Survey

ManpowerGroup's 2026 Global Talent Shortage Survey reveals that 71% of companies in the Asia Pacific and Middle East region struggle to fill job vacancies, with artificial intelligence skills emerging as the most difficult competency to recruit across the region. Model development and AI applications (27%) and AI literacy (26%) rank as the top two most sought-after skills, fundamentally reshaping recruitment processes and workforce competitiveness in APME markets.

Opens West Kalimantan PPP Regional Deliberation, Mardiono Emphasises Grassroots Strength Remains Solid

Muhammad Mardiono, Chairman of the Prosperous Justice Party (PPP) Central Board, officially opened the West Kalimantan Regional Deliberation (Muswil), part of the party's national consolidation ahead of verification and preparation for the 2029 elections. Mardiono emphasised that PPP's grassroots support remains solid despite challenges in the 2024 elections, and highlighted the party's strategy to establish political agents down to the village level by 2028.

CFX Transaction Fee Reduction Expected to Deepen Domestic Market Liquidity

PT Central Finansial X (CFX), Indonesia's crypto asset exchange, will reduce transaction fees by 50 per cent from 0.04 per cent to 0.02 per cent starting March 2026, with a further reduction to 0.01 per cent planned for October 2026. Industry players argue that this fee restructuring will enhance market liquidity, attract domestic consumers back from overseas platforms, and strengthen Indonesia's competitive position in the global crypto market. The Financial Services Authority recorded IDR482.

Danger Lurking for Motorists on Waduk Pluit Selatan Road as Surface Deteriorates and Subsides

The road surface of Jalan Waduk Pluit Selatan in North Jakarta has deteriorated significantly, with severe subsidence and uneven heights creating a dangerous driving hazard. Local residents report frequent accidents, particularly during rainy conditions when visibility and traction worsen, and have taken measures to provide first aid assistance. The road damage also causes vehicles to scrape against the asphalt, indicating structural failure requiring urgent municipal attention.

Economists Criticise Indonesia–US Trade Agreement as Government Presses Ahead

Economists and trade observers have launched criticism of Indonesia's Agreements on Reciprocal Trade (ART) with the United States, arguing that the accord delivers limited direct economic benefits, covering only 2 per cent of Indonesia's total trade.

PDI-P Bans Party Members from Seeking Rent from Free Nutritious Meal Programme

Indonesia's PDI-P party has issued a directive prohibiting its members from exploiting the government's Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme for personal financial gain or group benefits. The party, which received the most votes in the 2024 elections, cited reports of implementation irregularities including targeting errors, quality issues, poisoning cases, and suspected corruption, emphasising that the programme is state-funded and must remain transparent and benefit-focused.

Illegal Land Clearing in Wajo Forest Area: Perpetrators Face 10-Year Prison Sentence

Indonesia's Ministry of Forestry enforcement agency has halted illegal land clearing operations across approximately 9 hectares in a production forest area in Wajo Regency, South Sulawesi, resulting in the arrest of a field supervisor. The primary suspect has been charged under Indonesia's Forestry Law with potential penalties of up to 10 years imprisonment and a fine of Rp5 billion for coordinating unauthorised land conversion activities intended for plantation use without proper licensing.

Minister for Culture Urges Strengthening of National Film Ecosystem and Regulation

Indonesia's Minister for Culture Fadli Zon met with film producers from MD Entertainment to discuss strengthening the national film industry ecosystem and developing balanced regulatory frameworks. The Minister emphasised the importance of robust screenwriting quality, talent management, and collaboration between government and industry stakeholders to ensure Indonesian films remain competitive whilst preserving cultural identity and maintaining cinema attendance.

Mark the Schedule: Mitsubishi Indonesia Launches First Hybrid Vehicle

Mitsubishi Motors Krama Yudha Sales Indonesia (MMKSI) will launch its first hybrid vehicle in the second quarter of 2026, with local production beginning in the first half of 2026. The vehicle will be assembled domestically at Mitsubishi Motors Krama Yudha Indonesia (MMKI) facilities, positioning the manufacturer to benefit from improved pricing structures, distribution efficiency, and compliance with domestic component requirements (TKDN).

Facts on Arrest of Koh Erwin, Drug Trafficker in Former Bima Police Chief Case

Indonesian police have arrested Koh Erwin, a suspected drug trafficker allegedly involved in bribing former Bima Police Chief AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro, after evading authorities since mid-February. Erwin was apprehended on an illegal vessel near Malaysian waters whilst attempting to escape, with authorities also arresting his treasurer Ais Setiawati and two accomplices who facilitated his flight.

New Toll Road Opens for Free, Palembang-Banyuasin Holiday Travel Significantly Shortened

PT Hutama Karya announced operational readiness to functionally open the Palembang-Betung Toll Road ahead of the 2026 Lebaran holiday period, with construction progress reaching 79.4%. The company will temporarily operate approximately 53.2 kilometres of the toll road free of charge to ease traffic congestion and reduce travel time from 3-4 hours to just 1 hour between Palembang and Banyuasin.

Fugitive Drug Dealer Ko Erwin's Escape Halted with Gunshot to Leg

Ko Erwin, a major drug trafficker from West Nusa Tenggara, has been arrested in Tanjung Balai, North Sumatra, after a week on the run. The suspect, who allegedly paid 1 billion rupiah to senior police officials to operate his drug distribution network in Bima City, was shot in the leg whilst attempting to flee to Malaysia by sea and was apprehended before crossing into Malaysian waters.

Minister Trenggono distributes food stabilisation rice to fishermen in East Lombok

Indonesia's Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Minister Sakti Wahyu Trenggono distributed subsidised rice under the Government's Food Supply and Price Stabilisation (SPHP) programme to fishermen in Ekas Buana village, East Lombok, during a visit to monitor progress on the Red and White Fishermen Village (KNMP) development project.

DKI Yesterday: Two Entrances to Cawang City Park Closed to Prevent Youth Clashes

The East Jakarta City Government permanently closed two access points to Cawang City Park due to suspected illegal activities, whilst coordinating with police, military, religious leaders, and community figures to prevent youth clashes during Ramadhan. The article also highlights other recent Jakarta initiatives including free public transport during Eid 2026, social assistance distribution, and a Ramadhan festival at Jakarta International Stadium.

Motor Vehicle Tax Collection Deemed Unfair

Motor vehicle tax (PKB) collection in Central Java is criticised as unfair because it disproportionately targets compliant taxpayers whilst those who default are often overlooked, with 4.7 million vehicles in arrears out of 16 million registered, costing the region Rp 2.1 trillion in lost revenue.

Criminal Incidents Yesterday: Lawyer Stabbed in Tangerang Selatan and DJ Deportation

Several criminal incidents occurred in Jakarta on Friday, 27 February, including the pursuit of two suspects in the stabbing of a lawyer in Tangerang Selatan and the deportation of foreign national DJ and dancer for visa violations. The incidents also included trauma counselling provided to the family of a murder victim by North Jakarta Metro Police.

Cabinet Secretary Teddy's Statement on Free Nutritious Meal Programme and Education Budget

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya has affirmed that President Prabowo Subianto's administration's Free Nutritious Meal Programme (MBG) does not undermine education programmes or budgets, countering public concerns about potential resource reallocation.

Huawei to Launch WATCH Ultimate 2 in Indonesia, Luxury Smartwatch for Extreme Exploration

Huawei is launching its premium WATCH Ultimate 2 smartwatch in Indonesia on 5 March 2026, featuring unprecedented diving capabilities up to 150 metres depth and advanced health monitoring technology. The device is constructed with zirconium-based liquid metal for extreme durability and sapphire glass display with 3,500 nits brightness, positioning it as a luxury wearable for adventurers. Early buyers will receive promotional gifts valued up to Rp2.7 million through various authorised retailers.

Samsat Mobile Services Available at Eight Locations Across Detabek Region

The Jakarta Metro Police Department (Polda Metro Jaya) is providing mobile One-Stop Administrative Centre (Samsat) services across eight locations in Depok, Tangerang, and Bekasi (Detabek) to facilitate vehicle tax payments. Citizens must bring valid identity cards, vehicle ownership documents, and registration certificates, and cannot have outstanding vehicle tax arrears exceeding one year.

Gerakan Rakyat Falls Short of February Target for Official Political Party Recognition

Gerakan Rakyat, a civil society organisation supporting Anies Baswedan, has missed its February deadline to gain official government recognition as a political party. The group, which declared its transition to a political party in January 2026, has struggled to establish the complete organisational structure required by law, including branches in all 38 provinces and at least 50 per cent of Indonesia's 7,000 sub-districts.

Six camera traps deployed after tiger sighting in West Sumatra

The West Sumatra Natural Resources Conservation Agency has deployed six camera traps in Palupuh Subdistrict following reports of a Sumatran tiger sighting on plantation land, prompting concerns about human-wildlife conflict in the region.

Official Link and How to Register for Free Ministry of Transport Homecoming 2026, Opens 1-15 March

The Indonesian Ministry of Transport (Kemenhub) is opening free homecoming (mudik) travel registration from 1-15 March 2026 through its online portal at https://nusantara.kemenhub.go.id, with registration opening daily at 08:00 WIB and closing once daily quotas are filled. Participants must complete re-registration and validation within three days or their data will be forfeited and their identification number blocked from future registration.

Residents Forced to Carry Corpse 2 km Because Ambulance Cannot Pass Through Road in Bima

Residents in Baku Hamlet, Sumi Village, Lambu District, Bima Regency, West Nusa Tenggara, were forced to carry a deceased person on foot for 2 kilometres because poor road conditions prevented ambulances from passing through. The badly deteriorated road becomes impassable mud during the rainy season, affecting not only emergency services but also hampering daily economic activity and mobility. Local residents have called on the Bima Regency Government to urgently repair the road infrastructure.

Indonesia Affirms Investment and Downstream Processing Requirements for US Access to Critical Minerals

Indonesia's Deputy Investment Minister Todotua Pasaribu has reiterated that US access to Indonesian critical minerals, including rare earth elements, is conditional upon US companies investing in domestic processing and downstream activities. The government maintains its strict ban on raw material exports and is targeting Rp13 trillion in domestic investment over five years, with mineral sector downstream processing identified as a priority area.

Woman Who Repeatedly Refused to Pay for Food Finally Arrested and Apologises

A woman who had gone viral multiple times for refusing to pay for food and ride-hailing services was arrested at a fast-food restaurant in central Jakarta on 26 February 2026. The arrest, conducted by the Jakarta Central Social Service Task Force with assistance from the Civil Police Unit, resulted in a widely-shared video showing the woman apologising profusely to officers. The incident highlights ongoing issues with anti-social behaviour in the capital's dining establishments.

Mobile Driving Licence Services Available at Five Locations in Jakarta

The Jakarta Metro Police Directorate of Traffic has deployed mobile driving licence (SIM Keliling) service kiosks at five locations across Jakarta on Saturday to assist residents in renewing their legal driving documentation. The service, operating from 08:00 to 11:00, covers specific licence categories (SIM A and SIM C) with renewal fees of IDR 80,000 and IDR 75,000 respectively, whilst SIM B renewals must be handled at designated administration centres.

Critically endangered Sumatran elephant calf found dead in Riau

A critically endangered Sumatran elephant calf was discovered dead at Tesso Nilo National Park in Riau, with preliminary examinations suggesting death from a leg infection caused by a snare wound. The incident highlights ongoing threats to Sumatran elephants from habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, and poaching, with the species' population estimated at only 2,400–2,800 individuals across Sumatra.

Ministry of Communication and Digital Restricts Login Features on Indonesian Wikipedia, Here's Why

Indonesia's Ministry of Communication and Digital (Komdigi) has restricted access to login features on Wikimedia services since 25 February 2026 because Wikimedia Foundation has not registered as a Private Scope Electronic System Operator (PSE) as required by law. The restriction applies only to the authentication subdomain, meaning Indonesian users cannot log in or create new accounts, though they can still read all Wikipedia articles and content.

BRI Records Highest Housing Credit Programme Realisation, Surpassing IDR 3.42 Trillion

PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) has achieved the highest national disbursement rate for the Housing Credit Programme (Kredit Program Perumahan/KPP), reaching IDR 3.42 trillion between January and February 2026, equivalent to over half of the national total of IDR 6.10 trillion.

Chinese Emperor Admired Prophet Muhammad, Called Him the Most Noble Person in the World

Chinese Emperor Zhu Yuanzhang, founder of the Ming Dynasty (1368-1398), openly praised Islam and Prophet Muhammad as a revered figure bringing mercy to all creation. His reign is considered the golden age of Islam in China, marked by significant expansion of the Muslim population through systematic proselytising, state-supported mosque construction, and the recruitment of Muslims into imperial administration, military, and diplomatic positions.

Minister of Trade: Basic Commodity Prices in Post-Disaster Sumatra Region Remain Relatively Stable

Minister of Trade Budi Santoso confirmed that essential commodity prices in disaster-affected areas of Sumatra remain relatively stable ahead of Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijriah. During an inspection visit to traditional and modern markets in Tebing Tinggi, North Sumatra, the Minister verified food supply availability and confirmed prices for staple goods such as poultry, eggs, beef and rice remain within regulated maximum retail price limits.

The Importance of Early Detection of Blood Flow to Prevent Diabetic Foot Amputation

Vascular surgeon Dr. Andrew Jackson Yang emphasises that diabetic foot wounds are not merely skin problems but complex complications involving blood vessel dysfunction that can lead to amputation if not treated early. Early evaluation of blood circulation through vascular assessment methods such as ABI, Doppler ultrasound, and angiography can identify blockages and enable procedures like angioplasty or atherectomy to restore blood flow.

Understanding the tradition of Khataman Al-Quran at the Sultanate Mosque of Ternate: A timeless sacred ritual on the 10th night of Ramadhan

The Sultanate Mosque of Ternate in North Maluku observes the traditional Khataman Al-Quran ritual on the 10th night of Ramadhan, led by mosque officials (imam, khatib, and modin) who complete the recitation of all 30 juz of the Qur'an begun at the start of the holy month. This locally rooted Islamic tradition, performed to seek divine forgiveness and enhance spiritual devotion, represents an important example of preserving ancestral Islamic wisdom and local cultural heritage in Ternate.

Requirements and Process for IPO on BEI Latest 2026: Complete Guide to Going Public

Entering 2026, the Indonesia Stock Exchange (BEI) has undertaken major reforms to its Initial Public Offering (IPO) regulations through a revision of Regulation Number I-A, placing greater emphasis on fundamental quality, market liquidity, and stricter corporate governance. Going public is no longer merely a fundraising exercise but a validation of corporate transparency and professionalism.

GAPKI sees zero tariff lifting US palm oil sales

Indonesia's palm oil industry association (GAPKI) expects US palm oil exports could reach 3 million tonnes within two to three years if zero tariffs are maintained, following a bilateral reciprocal tariff agreement signed on 19 February covering 1,819 tariff lines including palm oil, coffee, and other commodities.

When They Respond to PDIP's Concerns Over Free Nutritious Meals Budget

The Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) has raised concerns that funding for the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, totalling Rp 223.5 trillion, is being drawn from the national education budget of Rp 769 trillion allocated in the 2026 state budget, contrary to government claims that it represents efficiency savings.

Retail Chief Responds to Government Call to Halt Village Expansion

The Indonesian Retail Entrepreneurs Association (Aprindo) has responded to government proposals for a moratorium on modern retail expansion in villages, with its chairman Solihin affirming that member retailers will comply with local regulations and licensing requirements.

Panasonic Ceases Television Production, Manufacturing and Sales Operations Transferred to China

Panasonic has announced it will cease independent television production and transfer all manufacturing, distribution, and marketing operations for Panasonic-branded TVs to Chinese technology company Skyworth. Panasonic will retain a supporting role by providing technical expertise and quality control, whilst Skyworth assumes responsibility for sales, promotion, and supply chain management across major markets including the US and Europe.

Bapanas: Strategic staple food prices declining and stabilising

Indonesia's National Food Agency (Bapanas) has reported that strategic staple food prices are declining and stabilising with adequate stocks ahead of Eid al-Fitr, as the government maintains strict monitoring of price volatility during Ramadan. The government is rolling out expanded food assistance programmes covering 33.2 million beneficiary families nationwide, with a budget of Rp11.

1,463 Potholes Found on Parung-Cilodong Road Requiring Rp 239 Billion in Repairs

A 25.1-kilometre road stretch from Gandaria to Cilodong through to Parung in West Java contains 1,463 potholes requiring Rp 239 billion (approximately £11.7 million) for complete reconstruction. The National Roads Implementation Agency (BBPJN) has attributed the damage to structural inconsistencies between asphalt and concrete sections and inadequate drainage systems, with current repair budgets of only Rp 13 billion proving insufficient for comprehensive rehabilitation work.

Bali Police Name Six Foreign Nationals as Suspects in Ukrainian Citizen Abduction, Issue Red Notice

Bali Police have designated six foreign nationals as suspects in the alleged abduction and murder of a Ukrainian citizen identified as IK, with four suspects having fled to Malaysia and two believed to remain in Indonesia.

Bakrie & Brothers Receives Approval for Rights Issue Through Extraordinary General Meeting

PT Bakrie & Brothers Tbk (BNBR) has received shareholder approval to conduct a rights issue to raise capital for the acquisition of PT Cimanggis Cibitung Tollways and strengthen its financial structure. The company plans to issue up to 90 billion new series E shares, which is expected to reduce the debt-to-asset ratio from 84.28 per cent to 67.9 per cent and improve the debt-to-equity ratio from 536.02 per cent to 211.57 per cent. The company reported net revenue of Rp 3.

Unexpected Remarks from Rizal Chalid's Son Following Heavy Court Sentence

Muhammad Kerry Adrianto Riza, son of oil merchant Rizal Chalid, has been sentenced to 15 years' imprisonment, a 1 billion rupiah fine, and ordered to pay 2.9 trillion rupiah in restitution by the Jakarta Corruption Court for his involvement in crude oil governance and refinery product corruption at PT Pertamina during 2018-2023. Despite the hefty sentence, Kerry announced his intention to appeal, claiming that key trial evidence was disregarded in the court's considerations.

itel City 200 Officially Launched, Targeting Active Users at IDR1.3 Million

itel Indonesia has officially launched the itel City 200 smartphone at IDR1,399,000, positioning it as an entry-level option for active consumers seeking stylish design, durability, and functional smart features. The device features a 6.78-inch 120Hz display, IP65 certification, Military-Grade MIL-STD-810H durability standards, a 50MP rear camera, and a 5,200mAh battery at just 7.45mm thickness.

Legal Developments: From Riza Chalid's Son's Sentence to Arrest of Koko Erwin

Indonesia's legal system saw several significant developments on Friday 27 February, including the conviction of Muhammad Kerry Andrianto Riza, son of Riza Chalid, to 15 years imprisonment for crude oil and refinery product corruption causing USD 2.73 billion in state losses, and the arrest of suspected narcotics kingpin Koko Erwin (Erwin) who was apprehended in North Sumatra whilst attempting to flee to Malaysia.

One Year On: People's Movement Supporting Anies Baswedan Seeks to Become Political Party

Gerakan Rakyat, a civil society organisation founded a year ago and led by Sahrin Hamid, has announced its intention to transform into a political party. The movement, which supports former Jakarta Governor Anies Baswedan, has established organisational structures across Indonesia and celebrated its first anniversary with Anies present as the group's inspiration figure.

US Tariff Negotiations Present Opportunity for Indonesian Economic Reform and Strengthening

Former Indonesian Finance Minister Sri Mulyani Indrawati states that US unilateral tariff policies have shifted global trade from the multilateral WTO framework to bilateral negotiations, forcing countries including Indonesia to negotiate directly with America.

KISI Securities Prepares Eight Companies for IPO This Year

Korea Investment and Securities Indonesia (KISI) has announced that seven to eight companies are in its Initial Public Offering (IPO) pipeline, with the largest having assets worth between Rp2-3 trillion. The companies span banking, tourism, mining, and infrastructure sectors, reflecting continued positive momentum in Indonesia's capital market with investor numbers exceeding 20 million as of mid-December 2025.

Running Race Ends in Assault: Child in Depok Becomes Victim of Emotional Police Officer's Son

A nine-year-old boy in Depok was assaulted by an 11-year-old son of a police officer after losing a running race, with CCTV footage documenting the attack. The incident was resolved through mediation at the local police precinct with a settlement agreement, though the victim's mother expressed dissatisfaction with the apology's sincerity.

Mitsubishi Claims It Has Not Been Contacted by Agrinas Despite Possessing L300

Mitsubishi Motors Krama Yudha Sales Indonesia (MMKSI) states it has not been formally contacted by Agrinas Pangan Nusantara regarding vehicle procurement plans for Koperasi Merah Putih, despite having relevant locally-produced offerings such as the L300 light commercial vehicle and imported Triton double cab.

The Charm of Batu Kursi Hill: Trekking, Temple, and Pemuteran Bay Panorama

Batu Kursi Hill in Pemuteran, Buleleng, Bali, has emerged as a popular trekking and spiritual destination, attracting visitors seeking panoramic views of Pemuteran Bay and the Batu Kursi Temple (Pura Batu Kursi) at its summit. The hill's popularity surged after local spiritual leaders received mystical guidance about the sacred stone, with many visitors now coming to perform religious rituals and seek blessings for their careers and positions.

Transport Minister Strengthens Coordination to Ensure Smooth Eid 2026 Travel to West Sumatra

Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi has reinforced coordination with West Sumatra Governor Mahyeldi Ansharullah to ensure safe and efficient Eid 2026 travel arrangements. A transportation survey projects 1.88 million West Sumatrans travelling during the Eid period, with 5.36 million arrivals expected to the province, requiring comprehensive preparation of transport hubs, rest areas, and traffic management across multiple agencies.

PAN Says It Will Continue Supporting Free Nutritious Meal Programme Despite PDIP's Directive

The National Mandate Party (PAN) has reaffirmed its full support for President Prabowo Subianto's Free Nutritious Meal Programme (MBG), responding to the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle's (PDIP) directive instructing party cadres not to exploit the scheme.

KPK Claims Customs Officials Used Corruption Proceeds to Purchase Operational Vehicles

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has revealed that Directorate General of Customs and Excise (DJBC) officials used proceeds from alleged bribery and gratification linked to counterfeit goods imports to purchase operational vehicles. The KPK charged seven suspects, including customs officials and private company owners, with utilising the vehicles to store and move corruption funds whilst evading KPK surveillance.

Renowned US University Professor Visits IKN, Offers Unexpected Praise

Prof. Thomas C. Hilde from the University of Maryland visited Indonesia's new capital city Nusantara (IKN) in East Kalimantan and praised it as an "inspirational" global model for sustainable development. The American academic highlighted how the project integrates social, environmental, technological and human development dimensions, describing it as the world's best example of how a state infrastructure project can be combined with wildlife conservation and forest preservation.

Politics: From Prabowo's Return to Indonesia to Garibaldi Carrier Crew Preparations

President Prabowo Subianto returned to Indonesia on Friday following state visits to the United States, Jordan, and the United Arab Emirates, where he met with UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to strengthen strategic partnerships and discuss increased UAE investment in Indonesia.

Endeavours to Achieve Educational Justice

Indonesia's new student admission system (SPMB) under the 2025 Ministry of Education regulation replaces the previous PPDB system to promote more equitable and inclusive access to education by abolishing entry academic tests and expanding affirmative action pathways.

KPK Seizes Documents and Electronic Evidence from Official's Residence in Pati

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has confiscated documents and electronic evidence from the residence of Riyoso, Head of the Public Works and Spatial Planning Agency in Pati Regency, during a search operation. The action is part of an investigation into allegations of extortion involving suspended Pati Regent Sudewo, who was arrested in January 2026 during a KPK operation.

When Nasida Ria Meets AI: Religious Tradition Transforms in the Digital Multiverse World

The Semarang-based kasidah group Nasida Ria has collaborated with Google's Gemini AI platform to explore creative possibilities, demonstrating how traditional religious music can adapt to digital innovation. The collaboration features five different visual universes including science fiction, anime, and gaming, with the group choosing to ground futuristic themes in relatable Indonesian contexts such as Ramadan and mudik (homecoming).

Gold Prices Surge Again, Approaching US$5,300

Gold prices surged sharply to close at US$5,277.29 on Friday (27 February 2026), up 1.74% and marking a one-month high, driven by higher-than-expected US Producer Price Index data that fuelled concerns about sustained elevated interest rates and heightened demand for gold as a safe-haven asset.

At the End of a Trafficker's Flight

The arrest of Koko Erwin, a major drug trafficker, at Tanjung Balai port whilst attempting to flee to Malaysia has exposed a corruption scandal involving the former Police Chief of Bima City, AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro. The case reveals a complex scheme involving alleged bribes of Rp1 billion, deposits of 488 grams of methamphetamine at an officer's official residence, and total financial flows of Rp2.

The Dangers of Overbuying During Ramadhan: From Wallet Depletion to Food Waste Accumulation

A consumer behaviour expert from IPB University warns that Ramadhan is a high-risk period for overbuying due to aggressive promotional campaigns by businesses, contradicting the spiritual essence of fasting which emphasises simplicity. The phenomenon is most evident during breaking-of-fast meals, where excessive food preparation leads to significant food waste and unnecessary household expenditure.

Capital Market Challenges Following MSCI and Moody's Evaluation of National Investment Stability

Indonesia's capital market faces significant headwinds as portfolio investment outflows totalled approximately USD 14 billion between 2025 and Q3 2026, reflecting growing caution among global investors regarding domestic economic governance and policy certainty. Moody's downward outlook assessment has highlighted fiscal stability and institutional risks, prompting Paramadina University to convene discussions on strategies to restore investor confidence.

New Suspect in KPK Customs Duty Bribery Case

The Anti-Corruption Commission (KPK) has detained Budiman Bayu Prasojo, Head of Customs Intelligence Section at Indonesia's Directorate General of Customs, as a new suspect in a major bribery case involving fraudulent import processing. The detention follows discoveries of Rp 5.19 billion in multiple currencies at safe houses, which KPK alleges was accumulated through bribes paid by importers and entrepreneurs to facilitate unregulated import clearances.

Bali's Longest Toll Road Project Shows Signs of Revival

Indonesia's toll road authority (BPJT) is revisiting the stalled Gilimanuk-Mengwi toll road project in Bali, optimising the scope and preparing fresh tender documentation to improve financial viability. The 96.84 km toll road, requiring IDR 24.98 trillion in investment, aims to reduce travel time from Gilimanuk to Denpasar from 5-7 hours to 1.5-2 hours, whilst promoting more balanced economic development across the island and improving transport distribution efficiency.

Warm Moment as Metro Police Open Fast with Ojol Community, Strengthen Public Order Synergy

The Metro Jaya Police (Polda Metro Jaya) held a joint breaking of fast (iftar) event on Friday, 27 February 2026, bringing together approximately 1,530 participants including 1,000 online motorcycle taxi (ojol) drivers, dozens of small business operators, and 500 police personnel. The initiative, led by Metro Police Chief Inspector General Asep Edi Suheri, aimed to strengthen community engagement and reinforce public order through mutual dialogue, empathy, and solidarity.

KISI Breaks Through Rp 1 Trillion Adjusted Net Working Capital, Aggressively Courts Investors

PT Korea Investment And Sekuritas Indonesia (KISI) has achieved Rp 1 trillion in Adjusted Net Working Capital (MKBD) as of August 2025, reflecting the company's financial health and operational sustainability. The securities firm is actively pursuing investors through educational initiatives and market engagement, whilst also launching an innovative competition offering Rp 10 billion in exclusive prizes including luxury cars and designer accessories to attract and retain investor participation.

Road Works on Jakarta-Tangerang Toll Road: Check Locations and Times

Jasa Marga will undertake rigid pavement reconstruction works on the Jakarta-Tangerang Toll Road from 28 February to 9 March 2026 across both directions to improve road infrastructure quality and passenger comfort whilst meeting toll road minimum service standards. The affected lanes will be temporarily closed during works, though alternative lanes will remain available for traffic flow.

Ibas on BPJS Health: No One Should Fear Seeking Medical Treatment

Vice Chair of the People's Consultative Assembly Edhie Baskoro Yudhoyono (Ibas) has emphasised the importance of a robust national health insurance system for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), warning that this is not the right time to increase JKN premiums given the economic pressures facing Indonesians.

Indonesia Abstains at UN General Assembly Session on Ukraine Due to Lack of Inclusive Discussions

Indonesia abstained from voting on a Ukrainian-proposed ceasefire resolution at the UN General Assembly on 24 February 2026, citing the lack of inclusive dialogue in the resolution's drafting process. The Indonesian Foreign Ministry stressed that negotiations on conflict resolutions must be open to all parties, a position shared by approximately 50 countries that also abstained, primarily from the developing and middle-income nations.

Assessing the "Rp 500 Million Kitchen", a governance revolution for the Nutritious Meal Service Unit

Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency has sparked debate by allocating Rp 500 million daily directly to local nutritious meal service units (SPPG), bypassing regional government budgets to accelerate programme execution and eliminate administrative delays.

BOCHK Once Again Supports Indonesian Government Dim Sum Bond Issuance

Bank of China (Hong Kong) has served as Joint Lead Manager and Joint Bookrunner for Indonesia's second Dim Sum Bond issuance on 25 February, raising approximately 31.1 billion Renminbi across RMB and Euro denominations. The successful offering, which attracted investor demand ratios of 1.84 times for RMB and 3.51 times for Euro instruments, demonstrates continued international confidence in Indonesia's economic fundamentals and fiscal discipline.

Two Sides of Indonesia-US Trade Deal

Indonesia and the United States have signed the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART), a trade deal signed by President Prabowo Subianto and President Donald Trump. The agreement presents both opportunities and risks, with critics warning that it contains significant provisions beyond tariffs and market access, reflecting US geopolitical and economic agenda more heavily than government narratives suggest.

Jaecoo J5 EV Sells Strongly; J5 SHS Hybrid Ready to Enter Indonesia?

Jaecoo Indonesia is considering expanding its vehicle lineup to include the J5 SHS plug-in hybrid variant, following strong demand for the J5 EV which has surpassed 14,000 pre-orders. The hybrid model features a 1.5L turbocharged petrol engine paired with an electric motor, delivering 165kW of power and a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 7.9 seconds.

Groups of Men Visiting Cawang City Forest at Night Lead to Access Closure

The East Jakarta municipal government has permanently sealed two access points to Cawang City Forest following a viral video showing men frequenting the area at night, with suspicions of indecent conduct. Authorities discovered contraceptive devices in the forest and are implementing increased security measures, including street lighting upgrades and joint patrols involving civil police, military, and local security personnel.

BMKG forecasts light rain across most of Indonesia on Saturday

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has issued a weather forecast predicting light rain across most of the country on Saturday, with particular warnings for heavy to very heavy rainfall in several eastern regions. The agency has advised residents in Banten, West Java, Yogyakarta, Central Java, East Java, Bali, West Nusa Tenggara, East Nusa Tenggara, South Sulawesi and Maluku to remain vigilant.

Golkar Secretary-General Warns Cadres Against Misusing Free Nutritious Meal Programme

Golkar's Secretary-General Muhammad Sarmuji has responded to a PDI-P circular instructing members not to exploit the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme, stating that Golkar cadres have not done so. While Sarmuji characterised ownership of nutrition service units (SPPG) by party members as personal initiative, he warned against any deviation from programme standards or personal profit-taking from funds intended for students.

Lombok International Airport Parking Tariffs Increase from 1 March 2026, Premium Rate Rp 50,000 Per Hour

Angkasa Pura I will increase parking tariffs across all vehicle categories at Lombok International Airport from 1 March 2026, with the first adjustment since 2021, justified by infrastructure modernisation and improved service quality.

Ministry of Agraria and Land Affairs Partners with National Archives to Restore Land Documents at Severely Damaged Aceh Tamiang Land Office

The Ministry of Agraria and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency (ATR/BPN) has confirmed that land services in disaster-affected areas continue to operate, though the Aceh Tamiang Land Office (Kantah) sustained the most severe damage.

Toyota Kijang Innova Reclaims Indonesia's Best-Selling Vehicle Crown

Toyota Kijang Innova has reclaimed Indonesia's best-selling vehicle title in January 2026 with 5,401 units distributed, surpassing affordable electric vehicles like BYD Atto 1 that had briefly led in late 2025. The data reveals that Indonesian consumers still prioritise conventional, spacious family vehicles and commercial vehicles over electric alternatives, with top 10 sales dominated by traditional engines.

Yesterday, Rp6 million nutrition service incentive prevents budget wastage—shallow earthquake detected in Samosir

A roundup of five significant news stories from Friday (27/2) includes confirmation from Indonesia's National Nutrition Board (BGN) that Rp6 million daily incentives for nutrition service units are strategically designed to prevent budget wastage, the Cabinet Secretary announcing the first increase in honorary teacher incentives in 20 years to Rp400,000, a shallow magnitude 3.

Crematorium Project in West Jakarta: Halted After Resident Protests

A crematorium and funeral home construction project in Kalideres, West Jakarta, has been temporarily halted following resident protests over lack of prior notification and community consultation. The West Jakarta City Administration suspended the project because the developer has failed to obtain required environmental impact assessments and licensing clearances, despite earlier commitments to complete documentation.

Surabaya to Obtain Regional Railway Line with Details on Route and Project

The Surabaya Regional Railway Line (SRRL) project has officially commenced following a feasibility study, with design consultancy kickoff meeting led by the Directorate General of Railways, German Development Bank (KfW), and Chodai Co. Ltd.

Ramadhan: Controlling Desire, Managing Inflation

This opinion piece examines the paradox of Ramadhan as a month of spiritual discipline that often coincides with aggressive consumer spending and rising inflation. The author argues that Islamic economic principles emphasise proportional consumption based on actual needs rather than wants, and that individual purchasing restraint can contribute meaningfully to price stability and broader social welfare.

Flooded with Chinese Imports, Local SMEs Struggle to Develop

Minister of SMEs Maman Abdurrahman has attributed the stagnation of local SME development to unfair market conditions caused by illegal Chinese imports rather than lack of financing access. He revealed significant data discrepancies between China's recorded exports and Indonesia's import data, indicating widespread under-invoicing practices that deprive the state of tariff revenue and undermine local producers.

Viral Account of TNI Officer's Wife Alleged to Have Had Affairs with 13 Soldiers; Kodam XVII Command Responds

The Cenderawasih Regional Military Command (Kodam XVII) has confirmed it is investigating allegations that a 26-year-old wife of a TNI soldier engaged in affairs with 13 military personnel stationed in its jurisdiction. The case became public after the woman, from Jayapura, was reported by her husband, a member of Infantry Battalion 756/Wimane Sili, with investigations having commenced in mid-February 2026.

Suitcase Containing 5 Billion Rupiah Becomes Evidence as KPK Detains Customs Official

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has detained Budiman Bayu Prasojo, Head of the Customs Intelligence and Enforcement Division of the Ministry of Finance's Directorate General of Customs and Excise (DJBC), after recovering five suitcases containing 5.19 billion rupiah from a safe house. The seized cash, in mixed foreign and domestic currency, is alleged to be proceeds from corruption involving the importation of counterfeit goods during 2024-2026.

Government Regulation on Child Protection in Digital Spaces Requires Inclusive Education and Risk-Based Enforcement

Experts have emphasised that Indonesia's Government Regulation No. 17 of 2025 on Child Protection in Digital Spaces (PP Tunas) requires inclusive and contextualised education rather than a uniform, one-size-fits-all approach given the diverse conditions across Indonesian society and digital platform models.

Import of Indian Pickup Trucks Risks Weakening Domestic Industry

The Justice Party's Central Deliberation Board has raised concerns about the government's policy to import pickup trucks from India to support the Merah Putih Village Cooperative programme, warning it could undermine Indonesia's domestic automotive industry.

Ibas States BSPS Programme Assists Low-Income Communities in Obtaining Adequate Housing

Vice Chair of Indonesia's People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) Edhie Baskoro Yudhoyono (Ibas) has emphasised that the Stimulated Self-Help Housing Assistance Programme (BSPS) represents more than physical construction, serving as a means to restore dignity and secure futures for Indonesian families. The 2026 initiative in Magetan Regency provides 20 million rupiah assistance to 20 families in Tinap village to improve substandard housing conditions.

Man Shocked by Rp 222,000 Motorcycle Parking Fee at Babelan Hospital During Child's Admission

A resident of Bekasi was charged Rp 222,000 for parking two motorcycles at RS Ananda Babelan for three days whilst his child was hospitalised with dengue fever. The hospital's parking chief explained the high charge resulted from the resident failing to register one motorcycle as a member vehicle, which would have cost only Rp 20,000, instead incurring standard rates of Rp 3,000 per hour. The incident has raised public concern about hospital service fees and transparency in pricing structures.

State Losses of IDR 171 Trillion in Oil Case Unproven, Attorney General to Appeal

Indonesia's Attorney General has announced plans to appeal a court verdict in a crude oil mismanagement corruption case, despite acknowledging the court's decision. The court found that alleged state losses of IDR 171 trillion were unproven and merely speculative, though it did confirm IDR 9.4 trillion in verified losses and convicted four executives from Pertamina's subsidiary company with sentences ranging from 9 to 15 years imprisonment.

Palestine withdraws Riyad Mansour's candidacy for 81st UNGA presidency

Palestine's Permanent Observer Mission to the United Nations has withdrawn the candidacy of Riyad Mansour for the presidency of the 81st session of the UN General Assembly, citing current conditions in Palestine. Following this withdrawal, two candidates remain in the running from the Asia-Pacific regional group: Bangladesh's Md. Touhid Hossain and Cyprus's Andreas S. Kakouris, with elections scheduled for 2 June.

This Plant Grows Wild in Indonesian Forests and Could Become Fuel

Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) is developing innovations to use forest biomass as a source of biofuel to reduce dependence on crude oil imports. The research focuses on nyamplung (Calophyllum inophyllum), a native Indonesian plant, which can be processed into environmentally friendly fuel alternatives including biokerosene, biodiesel, and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).

Credit to MSMEs Reaches Only 19.4 Per Cent, Falls Short of RPJMN Target

Indonesia's Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Minister Maman Abdurrahman revealed that bank credit disbursements to the MSME sector outside the People's Business Credit programme reached only 19.4 per cent of total national credit in 2025, significantly short of the government's 25 per cent target set in the 2025–2029 National Medium-Term Development Plan. Of Rp8.149 trillion in total bank credit allocations, only Rp1.580 trillion flowed to MSMEs compared to the Rp2.

PDI-P Highlights Free Nutritious Meal Programme in Education Budget; Government Responds

The Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P) has raised concerns about the Makan Bergizi Gratis (Free Nutritious Meal) programme budget being classified within the education budget allocation, citing the 2026 State Budget Law and Presidential Regulation detailing that Rp 223.5 trillion of the Rp 769 trillion education budget is allocated to the programme through the National Nutrition Agency (BGN).

Education Budget for Free Nutritious Meal Programme Represents DPR-Government Agreement

The chairman of the DPR's Budget Committee has confirmed that the allocation of education funds for the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme represents an agreed settlement between parliament and the government, codified in the 2025 and 2026 state budget laws. The Prabowo administration has allocated 20 per cent of the national budget to education (Rp 724.2 trillion in 2025 and Rp 769 trillion in 2026), with Rp 223.

UMKM Minister Attributes Surge of Chinese Imports to Cargo Company Manipulation and Customs Corruption

Indonesia's UMKM Minister Maman Abdurrahman has attributed the flood of Chinese imports to corrupt practices involving cargo companies and Customs officials, citing recent KPK corruption arrests involving the Blueray Cargo company. The minister warned that illegal imports are undercutting domestic small and medium enterprises, with evidence suggesting substantial under-invoicing discrepancies—Chinese export data showing significantly higher volumes than recorded Indonesian imports.

Alleged Blind Spot Behind Forklift That Ran Over Man in Marunda

A man was fatally struck by a forklift at a container handling facility in Marunda, North Jakarta on 26 February. Police suspect the operator did not see the victim in the vehicle's blind spot, and are investigating whether the incident was negligence or involved criminal intent, whilst the forklift operator remains in custody at Cilincing Police Station.

US Media Highlights Latest Conditions at IKN, Reveals Unexpected Aspects

US news outlet NPR has reported on the latest developments of Indonesia's Nusantara (IKN) capital project, highlighting both the ambitious vision of a sustainable, green city powered by renewable energy and the substantial challenges facing its construction.

Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs Explains Cause of Indonesian Wikipedia Access Restrictions

Indonesia's Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs (Kemkomdigi) has restricted access to the authentication features of Wikimedia.org since 25 February 2026, citing Wikimedia Foundation's failure to register as a Private Scope Electronic System Operator (PSE) as required under national regulations. The restriction only affects login functionality; general access to Wikipedia content remains available.

UMKM Minister Blames Illegal Chinese Imports for High KUR Default Rates

Minister of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (UMKM) Maman Abdurrahman has blamed rising rates of default on People's Business Credit (KUR) loans on an influx of illegal imports from China flooding the domestic market, rather than on policy failures.

Indonesia to Defend Solar Panel Exports as US Imposes Up to 143% Duties

The United States has imposed provisional countervailing duties ranging from 85.99 per cent to 143.30 per cent on Indonesian solar panel products, prompting the Indonesian government to mount a defence of its industry ahead of a final ruling in July 2026.

Total Lunar Eclipse on 3 March 2026 Visible Throughout Indonesia, Don't Miss It!

A total lunar eclipse will occur on 3 March 2026 and will be visible across all regions of Indonesia without optical aid, provided skies are clear. The eclipse will reach its peak when the Moon turns a deep red colour, known as a blood moon, caused by the Sun, Earth, and Moon aligning in a straight line. The Indonesian Meteorological, Climatological and Geophysical Agency (BMKG) has provided guidance for optimal viewing of this astronomical phenomenon.