Archive: 12 March 2026
Showing 1,951-2,000 of 2,010 articles
Thu, 12 Mar 2026, 04:07 WIB
Sidharta Tata's Action Film Debut in Ikatan Darah Combines Hollywood Standards with Local Wisdom
Director Sidharta Tata makes his action film debut with Ikatan Darah, fulfilling a long-held ambition after success with the serial Pertaruhan. The film emphasises strict production discipline and applies Hollywood industry standards within an Indonesian context, with collaboration from international action star Iko Uwais, whilst distinctively incorporating local cultural elements such as traditional weapons and organic character exploration.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026, 04:02 WIB
Can Toll Road Rest Areas Really Be Closed When Full? Here's What Jasamarga Says
PT Jasamarga Transjawa Tol has confirmed that toll road rest areas can be temporarily closed or regulated when capacity reaches critical levels, a measure classified as traffic management similar to one-way or contraflow policies during peak periods. The company coordinates closures with police authorities and uses specific capacity indicators, with Rest Area KM 57 on the Jakarta–Cikampek route being one of the most frequently congested locations, particularly during evening hours before breaking fast during Ramadan.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026, 04:00 WIB
The Origins of Date Palm Cultivation in Israel and Its Concealed Exports
Israel is one of the world's largest date exporters, shipping approximately 35,000 tonnes annually, yet evidence suggests around 75% originates from settlements in the occupied West Bank, which are considered illegal under international law. Israeli dates are reportedly being re-exported through third countries with obscured origins—a practice critics term "date laundering"—to circumvent boycott movements and reach European and other markets.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026, 04:00 WIB
Robbery Motive Behind Death of Ermanto Usman
Ermanto Usman, a retired employee of Jakarta International Container Terminal, was fatally beaten with a crowbar during a home invasion robbery in Bekasi. The suspect, Sudirman (alias Yuda), targeted Usman's residence believing it to be the wealthiest in the area and panicked when confronted, resulting in the violent assault that killed Usman and critically injured his wife. The suspect now faces charges carrying a maximum 20-year prison sentence.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026, 04:00 WIB
Delivering International Standard Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) Training
PT Phitagoras Global Duta has officially achieved NEBOSH Gold Learning Partner status, the highest tier in NEBOSH's learning partnership programme, following an assessment on 23 December 2025 that evaluated the company's consistency in learning quality, comprehensive participant support, and training programme effectiveness. The company met all six core principles of NEBOSH learning excellence and is committed to expanding access to world-class HSE education whilst training safety professionals across various industrial sectors to meet both national and international standards.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026, 04:00 WIB
Lippo Mall Nusantara Celebrates Ramadan with Jakarta Sharia Festival
Lippo Mall Nusantara is hosting the Jakarta Sharia Festival throughout Ramadan under the theme "Serenity Aura", featuring modest fashion displays, spiritual talks, Middle Eastern cultural performances, and special shopping promotions. The mall has created thematic decorations inspired by Middle Eastern aesthetics with earth-tone colours and soft lighting, and will host performances by renowned singer Nassar alongside collections from prominent modest fashion designers including Itang Yunasz, Zaskia Mecca, and others.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026, 04:00 WIB
US-Iran Conflict Creates New Casualties; Muslim Nation Declares Emergency
Pakistan faces a severe fuel shortage crisis amid escalating US-Iran tensions in the Middle East, with petrol tankers unable to access supplies at distribution depots and the government implementing emergency rationing measures including shortened work weeks and school closures. The country's heavy reliance on Gulf region energy supplies has been disrupted by border closures and maritime route disruptions stemming from the wider regional conflict, despite official assurances that fuel price increases will stabilise.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026, 04:00 WIB
Smiles as Klaten Residents Receive Rice and Holiday Allowances from Village Enterprise
The village government of Sidowayah in Klaten, Central Java distributed 5 kilograms of rice and Idul Fitri holiday allowances of IDR 150,000 per person to 2,375 residents, totalling 12 tonnes of rice and IDR 356 million in allowances. The funds were generated from the profits of the Village-Owned Enterprise (BUMDes) Sinergi Sidowayah, which operates tourism attractions and hospitality businesses including Umbul Kemanten and Umbul Siblarak springs, a traditional children's play village, and a restaurant.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026, 03:46 WIB
Training Centre in Gayo Lues to Become Option for Disaster Survivors
The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) is preparing to temporarily relocate disaster survivors in Gayo Lues Regency, Aceh to a government-owned training centre facility whilst awaiting completion of temporary shelter construction. The agency aims to house all affected residents in appropriate accommodation before the Eid celebration in 2026, with temporary shelters remaining needed for 195 units out of the required 1,713 units.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026, 03:41 WIB
Commission II of the House of Representatives Pushes for Increased IPDN Budget for 2026 and Student Welfare
Commission II of the House of Representatives has committed to supporting the State Institute of Domestic Administration (IPDN) and backing a budget increase from Rp578 billion to Rp814 billion for 2026 to improve infrastructure and student welfare. The commission has also highlighted disparities in student meal allowances, which currently stand at Rp43,000 per person per day, significantly below other government academies such as the Police Academy (Akpol) and military institutions at Rp75,000 daily. The discussions also addressed curriculum reforms, campus rebranding efforts, and the importance of maintaining adequate student intake quotas to ensure operational efficiency.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026, 03:41 WIB
Series of New Facts in the Murder of Joxzin Brigade Member in Bantul
Police in Bantul have revealed new details in the murder case of Kitin Yoga Tama Rustamaji, a member of the Joxzin gang, killed by two suspects who were his friends. The killing was triggered by an argument during a drinking session that insulted one suspect's feelings, leading him to return with a machete and fatally slash the victim three times. Both suspects face potential death sentences or life imprisonment, with the primary suspect charged under premeditated murder provisions of the 2023 Criminal Code.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026, 03:37 WIB
Truck restrictions loom: Cilegon East toll exit congested with vehicles
Ahead of restrictions on freight truck operations along mudik routes from 13 to 29 March 2026, the Cilegon East toll exit has become congested with logistics trucks being redirected to Ciwandan Port and Bandar Bakau Jaya Port in Bojonegara. However, some truck drivers are circumventing the restrictions by returning to the toll road to reach Merak Port instead.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026, 03:35 WIB
Renal Cancer: A Silent Enemy Often Detected Too Late
Renal cancer is often called a "silent disease" as it typically develops without noticeable symptoms and is frequently discovered incidentally during imaging for other health concerns. Key risk factors include smoking, obesity, and hypertension, with lifestyle and metabolic disorders playing a significant role in cancer development rather than heredity alone.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026, 03:34 WIB
Three Brothers Arrested in Connection with Explosion at US Embassy in Oslo
Norwegian police have arrested three brothers, Norwegian citizens in their twenties with family ties to Iraq, in connection with an explosive device attack on the US Embassy in Oslo. Investigators are examining potential foreign state involvement and a video linked to the incident, whilst authorities have ruled out any casualties from the blast that damaged the embassy's consular entrance.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026, 03:30 WIB
Iran's Oil Story: The Persian Empire, Coups – And Global Power Struggle
Iran's oil history stretches back to the ancient Achaemenid Empire, but modern commercial extraction began in 1908 with the Masjed Soleyman discovery, transforming into one of the Middle East's most significant geopolitical resources. The industry's development became deeply entangled with Western imperial interests, culminating in the 1953 CIA and British-backed coup against Prime Minister Mohammad Mosaddeq's nationalisation efforts, an event that continues to shape Iran's politics and economy today. Over 120 oil and gas fields have since been discovered, making the resource central to Iran's economic sovereignty and international relations.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026, 03:30 WIB
Doctors Advise Elderly to Avoid Extended Overland Journeys, Here's Why
Medical professionals have warned that elderly people should limit overland travel duration to prevent serious health complications, particularly advising against journeys longer than 3-4 hours without adequate rest breaks. Extended periods of immobility whilst sitting in vehicles can cause muscle stiffness, poor blood circulation, leg swelling, and fatigue in older adults. Experts recommend regular rest stops to allow elderly travellers to stand, walk briefly, and move their bodies to reduce muscle tension.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026, 03:22 WIB
Exploring the Prambanan-Purwomartani Functional Toll Road for Lebaran Mudik
A new functional toll road section between Prambanan and Purwomartani in Yogyakarta is being prepared to ease congestion during the 2026 Lebaran mudik period. The toll road will operate temporarily from 16–29 March 2026, restricted to 06:00–18:00 WIB with a maximum speed limit of 40 kilometres per hour, serving outbound traffic from Yogyakarta to the Trans Java toll network.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026, 03:15 WIB
Parliament Accelerates Passage of Several Bills Before Eid Break: Domestic Worker Protection to Asset Seizure Laws
Indonesia's House of Representatives is fast-tracking the discussion of five new bills ahead of the Eid break in 2026, according to Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad. The priority bills are the Law on Protection for Domestic Workers and the Copyright Law, with both targeted for passage by the end of 2026, alongside bills on labour rights, asset seizure, and unified data systems.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026, 03:07 WIB
Suzuki e-Vitara Begins Distribution This Week
PT Suzuki Indomobil Sales is beginning distribution of the Suzuki e-Vitara, Indonesia's first pure electric SUV from the Japanese manufacturer, this week following its official launch at the 2026 Indonesia International Motor Show. The vehicle, priced from Rp 755 million (approximately USD 47,000) for the single-tone variant, features a 128 kW electric motor with 174 PS and advanced safety technologies including Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Keep Assist. The company will release confirmed sales figures at the end of March, with detailed retail data available through industry association Gaikindo's monthly report.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026, 03:01 WIB
Array of Countries Implement Salary Cuts and Work-From-Home Measures Following Iran-Israel Conflict
Multiple Asian countries are implementing emergency economic measures in response to energy supply disruptions caused by the Iran-Israel-United States conflict, with policies ranging from mandatory work-from-home schemes to school closures and salary reductions. Pakistan has closed schools for two weeks, cut government fuel allowances by half, and frozen cabinet salaries, while Thailand has enforced work-from-home protocols and Bangladesh has shut universities to conserve electricity. Vietnam has eliminated fuel import tariffs and Vietnam, Bangladesh, and other nations are scrambling to secure alternative energy supplies as their economies face mounting inflationary pressures from soaring fuel and energy costs.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026, 03:00 WIB
Low-Cost Drones Become Iran's Ultimate Weapon, Troubling US-Israel Alliance
Iran has deployed over 2,000 low-cost Shahed 136 drones costing US$20,000-50,000 each to overwhelm regional air defences, catching the Trump administration off-guard despite earlier warnings focused solely on missile threats. The US has responded by developing and deploying its own low-cost combat drones called Lucas in the Middle East, whilst analysts suggest Iran's strategy combines physical destruction with psychological warfare to pressure negotiations. However, reports indicate Iranian drone and missile attacks have declined dramatically by 83% and 90% respectively, suggesting depleted weapons stocks under sustained US-Israeli military pressure.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026, 02:57 WIB
Copyright Law Revision: Once Mekel Emphasises Need for Clear Oversight Regulations
DPR legislator Once Mekel has called for clearer oversight regulations in the revised Copyright Law, emphasising the need to balance protection of creators' exclusive rights with broader public access to creative works. Mekel advocates for separating roles between Collective Management Institutions (LMK) that distribute royalties and independent regulatory bodies to ensure accountability and prevent concentration of authority, whilst stressing the importance of a robust digital database system for transparent copyright registration and royalty management.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026, 02:56 WIB
Prabowo Plans to Appoint Presidential Envoys to Oversee State-Owned Enterprises
President Prabowo Subianto plans to appoint special presidential envoys to oversee Indonesia's state-owned enterprises (SOEs) to strengthen monitoring and prevent the loss of state assets. Speaking at the first anniversary of the Danantara Investment Management Body, Prabowo emphasised the need for rigorous oversight across all SOEs, noting that even wealthy nations with sovereign wealth funds have suffered losses due to poor management and weak supervision.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026, 02:46 WIB
Woman in West Jakarta defrauded in padel racket business scam worth 300 million rupiah, case settled peacefully
A woman named Lenny in Grogol Petamburan, West Jakarta, lost 300 million rupiah to a fraudulent padel racket business scheme after being contacted by a perpetrator who posed as an old friend. The suspect, a 26-year-old woman named FR, was arrested on 7 March 2026, with investigators revealing her husband was the likely mastermind, having recruited her into an online fraud network whilst imprisoned for drug offences. The case was resolved through restorative justice after the perpetrator agreed to return the full amount to the victim.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026, 02:40 WIB
Prabowo's Message to Danantara: Always Safeguard National Wealth
President Prabowo Subianto has urged Danantara Indonesia, the state investment management agency (BPI), to maintain good governance whilst managing national wealth on behalf of current and future generations. With assets under management exceeding USD 1 trillion, Danantara is one of the world's largest sovereign wealth funds, and the President has emphasised that robust oversight by multiple government institutions is essential to prevent losses and protect the nation's economic future.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026, 02:30 WIB
Parliament Reveals Saudi Arabia Has Not Yet Announced Postponement of 2026 Hajj amid Middle East Conflict
Indonesia's parliamentary Commission VIII stated that Saudi Arabian authorities have not formally announced any postponement of the 2026 hajj pilgrimage, despite escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East following US-Israel-Iran conflict. The Indonesian government has prepared contingency plans, including the option of unilaterally postponing departures whilst protecting pilgrims' paid costs such as accommodation and transportation. The Hajj and Umrah Ministry emphasised the need for high-level negotiations with Saudi Arabia to preserve pilgrims' investments should Indonesia decide to cancel the 2026 pilgrimage.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026, 02:30 WIB
Badung Police Prepare Security Plans for Nyepi and Eid-al-Fitr Exodus 2026
The Badung Police Department has mobilised 650 officers to ensure security during the overlapping celebrations of Nyepi (Balinese New Year) and Eid-al-Fitr in 2026. Security measures will be deployed across seven ceremonial sites during the Melasti phase, with particular focus on crowd management in popular tourist areas such as Kuta Utara and at major traffic checkpoints during the Lebaran exodus.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026, 02:30 WIB
Learning from Umar bin Khattab: How to Address a Food Crisis
The article examines historical responses to food crises through the lens of Umar bin Khattab's leadership during the severe drought of 638-639 CE (Am al-Ramadah), drawing parallels to modern supply shocks and economic instability. Umar's crisis management strategies—including food imports from other regions, deployment of public treasury funds, establishment of public kitchens, prioritised aid distribution, and temporary suspension of certain Islamic penalties—offer practical lessons for contemporary policymakers facing similar challenges.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026, 02:25 WIB
Permanent Housing for Disaster Victims in North Sumatra to be Inaugurated This Week
North Sumatra Governor Bobby Nasution announced that permanent housing (huntap) for disaster victims will be inaugurated this week with support from humanitarian organisation Tzu Chi Buddha, with the ceremony to be conducted by Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian. The government has prepared over 3,000 temporary housing units and financial assistance for affected residents, with full reconstruction plans expected to be finalised by 31 March 2026.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026, 02:17 WIB
War and Iran's Closure of the Strait of Hormuz Sparks Panic at the White House as Global Oil Prices Surge
The Trump administration has entered a state of panic following its military operations against Iran as global oil prices surged to over $120 per barrel, disrupting energy markets unexpectedly. Trump officials reportedly failed to anticipate that Middle Eastern military operations would trigger such market turbulence, though insiders suggest temporary price fluctuations alone will not prompt a reconsideration of the war decision. The White House has begun damage control efforts, reassuring oil traders about supply chain stability whilst managing concerns from Republican lawmakers worried that rising energy costs contradict their campaign messaging on lowering living costs.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026, 02:12 WIB
Indonesia Startup Funding Falls to $355.7M in 2025 Amid Global Tightening
Indonesia's startup funding declined sharply to $355.7 million across 91 deals in 2025, down from $6.9 billion in 2021, reflecting global liquidity constraints and higher US interest rates rather than weakness in the digital economy. Despite the contraction, Indonesia ranked third in Southeast Asia for startup funding, with fintech and new retail sectors remaining resilient, though early-stage funding faced intensifying competition with only 15% of seed-stage startups advancing to Series A. Policymakers are urging strengthened domestic venture capital participation and streamlined regulations to support sustainable ecosystem growth and reduce reliance on foreign investors.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026, 02:11 WIB
Urine Testing Recommended to Aid Early Detection of Kidney Inflammation
The chairman of the Indonesian Nephrology Association has urged young people to undergo regular urine tests to detect glomerulonefritis (kidney inflammation) early, as the condition often presents no symptoms in its initial stages but can be identified through urinalysis. Early detection is crucial, as many young patients develop kidney failure due to undiagnosed kidney inflammation, which can be prevented through healthy lifestyles, regular health checks, and careful dietary habits.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026, 02:03 WIB
Spain Withdraws Ambassador from Israel Permanently
Spain has announced the permanent withdrawal of its ambassador from Israel in protest against Israeli military operations in Iran and Gaza. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez's government, one of Europe's strongest critics of Israeli actions, has instructed the termination of Ambassador Ana María Sálomon Pérez's appointment, with a chargé d'affaires to manage the embassy going forward. The decision reflects Spain's consistent opposition to the Gaza conflict and its recent condemnation of the US-Israel military campaign against Iran.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026, 01:50 WIB
Unexpected Confession from Robber Who Killed JICT Pensioner
Police have revealed that Sudirman alias Yuda (28) attacked and killed retired Jakarta International Container Terminal employee Ermanto Usman (65) and his wife Pasmilawati (60) after being caught mid-robbery when the wife woke to a dawn prayer alarm. Panicked by being discovered, the perpetrator violently assaulted both victims with a crowbar before fleeing with mobile phones, a laptop, and jewellery; authorities confirm he had no specific target and some stolen goods were subsequently sold or used.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026, 01:46 WIB
PT Len showcases combat management system as "brain" of locally-built warship
PT Len Industri has unveiled its Combat Management System (CMS) Mandhala Mk2, an advanced integrated system designed to serve as the central control mechanism for Indonesian Naval warships, demonstrating the nation's capability in defence technology modernisation. The system integrates sensors, radar, communications, navigation and weaponry into a unified platform, enabling real-time tactical decision-making during combat operations. The demonstration, observed by defence ministry officials, reflects Indonesia's commitment to developing indigenous defence capabilities and reducing dependence on foreign technology.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026, 01:39 WIB
GoTo Narrows Net Loss by 77% in 2025 as Revenue Climbs
Indonesian technology conglomerate GoTo Gojek Tokopedia reported a 77% reduction in net loss to Rp 1.18 trillion in 2025, with revenue rising 15.27% to Rp 18.32 trillion driven by growth in service fees, delivery, lending, and advertising. The company's improved profitability reflects strong cost discipline and operational leverage, with management targeting adjusted EBITDA of Rp 3.2-3.4 trillion for 2026 and positioning fintech as a key growth engine alongside on-demand services.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026, 01:34 WIB
BPBD records 242 homes damaged by tornado in Cirebon
A severe tornado swept through two sub-districts in Cirebon Regency, West Java on 11 March, damaging 242 residential units and affecting 1,455 residents across 498 households. The extreme weather event, accompanied by heavy rain and strong winds, also caused approximately 20 trees to fall and damaged public facilities including schools and prayer rooms, though no casualties were reported.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026, 01:21 WIB
Muzani Reveals Latest Presidential Directive from Prabowo on Sumatera Disaster Response
MPR Chairman Ahmad Muzani has disclosed President Prabowo Subianto's latest instructions regarding disaster relief operations in Sumatera, emphasising rapid assistance for affected communities. Prabowo has directed the Task Force Head and Interior Minister Tito Karnavian to coordinate across relevant ministries and regional governments to accelerate reconstruction and rehabilitation efforts in the disaster-affected areas.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026, 01:18 WIB
Prabowo criticises regulations hampering audit of state-owned enterprise subsidiaries
President Prabowo Subianto has criticised regulations that prevent the auditing of subsidiary companies of state-owned enterprises (BUMN), whilst parent BUMN companies can be audited by the State Audit Board (BPK). Prabowo cited Pertamina's 200 subsidiary and sub-subsidiary companies as an example and expressed support for BUMN consolidation through Danantara as a mechanism to prevent deviations and potential loss of state wealth.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026, 01:03 WIB
KPK: PT SMS Previously Involved in Corruption Cases Outside Rejang Lebong
The Indonesian Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has revealed that PT SMS was previously convicted of bribery-related corruption offences within the Bengkulu Provincial Government in 2017, ahead of new corruption allegations involving the company in Rejang Lebong Regency disclosed in March 2026. The KPK has urged state officials, particularly in Bengkulu, to cease awarding contracts to vendors with documented histories of corruption involvement.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026, 01:01 WIB
Regent of Rejang Lebong Suspected of Accepting Bribes from Project Funds for Holiday Allowances to Citizens
The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) alleges that the Regent of Rejang Lebong, Muhammad Fikri Thobari, solicited bribes or fees of approximately 10-15 per cent from project contractors to cover holiday allowance distributions (THR) ahead of Lebaran. The KPK suspects the regent lacked legitimate income to fund the traditional practice of distributing THR to local residents, prompting him to resort to extracting fees from public works projects.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026, 01:00 WIB
Metro Police Chief Launches School-Community Police Partnership Forum at 11 Schools to Combat Bullying
Jakarta's Metropolitan Police Chief Irjen Asep Edi Suheri has launched the School-Community Police Partnership Forum (FKPMS) across 11 schools in Jakarta to strengthen efforts in preventing bullying, detecting problems early, and resolving issues in educational environments. The initiative comes in response to significant challenges including violence, harassment, gang fights, and negative social media influences, with police data showing approximately 2,706 cases of violence against women and children in Jakarta during 2025. The forum seeks to foster communication and coordination between police, schools, parents, and the community to create safe, orderly, and conducive learning environments.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026, 00:59 WIB
KPK suspects Rejang Lebong regent repeatedly received money for project contracts
Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has identified a systematic pattern of bribery in Rejang Lebong Regency, where regent Muhammad Fikri Thobari allegedly received repeated payments from contractors in exchange for project awards, totalling Rp775 million. The KPK suspects the corrupt practice extended across fiscal years 2025 and 2026, and may have involved other government offices beyond the Public Works Department, potentially serving as a gateway for broader investigations into the local administration.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026, 00:54 WIB
Parliament invites media to build human rights civilisation narrative in Indonesia
The Chairman of Parliament's Commission XIII, Willy Aditya, has called on the media to play an active role in building public narratives to advance human rights civilisation in Indonesia. Whilst acknowledging the Ministry of Human Rights' initiative to develop human rights civilisation through media collaboration, Aditya emphasised that this cannot be achieved through legislation and institutions alone, requiring instead long-term cultural change and active public participation grounded in critical awareness and civil society engagement.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026, 00:49 WIB
Regent of Rejang Lebong arrested in anti-corruption operation; KPK seizes Rp756.8 million
The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has seized Rp756.8 million in cash following the arrest of Rejang Lebong Regent Muhammad Fikri Thobari and 12 others in a sting operation on 9 March 2026 over alleged bribery in municipal government projects. Five suspects have been formally named, including the regent, the head of the public works agency, and three private sector figures from contracting companies operating in Bengkulu's Rejang Lebong district during the 2025–2026 budget year.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026, 00:46 WIB
Minister Pigai: Press Is a Pillar of Human Rights Civilisation Development
Indonesia's Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai has urged the press to serve not only as a pillar of democracy but also as a crucial instrument for developing human rights civilisation in the country. Pigai emphasised that the media plays a vital role in delivering justice in public discourse, particularly for marginalised communities facing inequality and legal injustices, whilst announcing government support for press freedom as part of strengthening human rights protection.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026, 00:44 WIB
Noodle Factory Using Formaldehyde Raided in Central Java, Producing 1.5 Tonnes Daily
Police raided an illegal noodle factory in Boyolali, Central Java, that had been producing wet noodles adulterated with formaldehyde as a preservative since 2019, with daily output of 1–1.5 tonnes. One suspect identified as WH was arrested following the operation, which also uncovered a formaldehyde storage warehouse; rapid testing of market samples confirmed the presence of the toxic chemical.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026, 00:27 WIB
Ministry of Finance Still Examining Plans for New Layer in Cigarette Tax Structure
Indonesia's Ministry of Finance is continuing technical and legal assessments of plans to add a new tier to the tobacco excise tax (CHT) structure, whilst simultaneously cracking down on illegal cigarette distribution. The government is also considering whether to allow previously illegal operators to transition to legal status by meeting proper tax obligations, whilst enforcement actions against illegal cigarettes have more than doubled in the first two months of 2026.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026, 00:25 WIB
15 Legal Experts Assert Pertamina Matter Is Purely Commercial Relationship, Not Corruption Offence
Fifteen legal experts from various Indonesian universities have concluded that allegations of corruption in PT Pertamina's crude oil and refinery product management during 2018-2023 constitute a purely commercial relationship rather than a criminal corruption offence. The experts examined the court case against three defendants (Muhamad Kerry Adrianto Riza, Dimas Werhaspati, and Gading Ramadhan Joedo) concerning ship leasing and fuel terminal rental, concluding that these transactions do not meet the elements of corruption under the Criminal Code.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026, 00:24 WIB
Director of LKBN ANTARA Appreciates Ramadhan Short-Term Islamic School in Bogor
The Director of LKBN ANTARA, represented by Hermanus Prihatna, has praised the Ramadhan Short-Term Islamic School (Sanlat) initiative organised by the Jabodetabek Journalists Community in Bogor, West Java, which aims to prepare young Indonesians to become pillars of national progress. The event, themed "Welcoming Indonesian Youth 2045: Intelligent, Virtuous, and Quranic-Spirited," featured speakers covering topics ranging from artificial intelligence to wildlife conservation, emphasising the importance of equipping youth with both secular knowledge and Islamic values.