Archive: 18 June 2026
Showing 451-500 of 1,644 articles
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 18:45 WIB
Eight East Java Regencies Declare Drought Emergency as Dry Season Peaks
Eight regencies in East Java have declared a drought emergency status as the region enters the peak of the dry season, with clean water supplies dwindling. The provincial disaster agency is monitoring the situation and stands ready to support local governments with water distribution once their own budgets are exhausted. Bondowoso Regency has recorded the largest distribution effort so far, delivering 155,000 litres of water across 12 sub-districts.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 18:44 WIB
Prudential Syariah Saves Customer's Finances from Rp 200 Million Medical Bill, Here's the Story
Prudential Syariah has highlighted its commitment to providing meaningful sharia-compliant protection, having paid out Rp 8.5 trillion in claims to over 325,000 participants since 2022. The company shared the testimony of a customer whose family savings were preserved after the insurer fully covered three major medical procedures totalling more than Rp 200 million. The case underscores the financial safety net offered by Islamic insurance against unexpected health crises.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 18:43 WIB
Task Force Resolves Eight Illegal Mining Cases in Kukar Forest Park, Suspects on Trial
A task force has completed legal proceedings for eight illegal mining cases within the Taman Hutan Raya (Tahura) conservation area in Kutai Kartanegara, with suspects now facing trial. The illegal activities have caused extensive environmental damage, affecting an estimated 4,000 hectares of the protected forest, while illegal plantations have expanded to roughly 8,000 hectares.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 18:42 WIB
Permanent Infrastructure a Priority, Task Force Head Tito: Post-Disaster Recovery in Sumatra Shows Progress
Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian reports positive progress in post-disaster rehabilitation across Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra. President Prabowo Subianto has approved a Rp100.1 trillion budget through 2028 for permanent infrastructure, including roads and bridges. Regional governments are urged to utilise additional transfer funds to address urgent local needs.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 18:40 WIB
BPOM: Universities Are Key Partners in Preparing Talent for the Drug and Food Sector
Indonesia's Food and Drug Authority (BPOM) has emphasised the strategic role of universities in developing skilled talent for the pharmaceutical and food industries. BPOM Chief Taruna highlighted the need for academia-business-government collaboration to drive innovation and overcome the 'valley of death' in research commercialisation. The agency signed an MoU with Universitas Surabaya to strengthen education, research, and regulatory support for the sector.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 18:40 WIB
BGN Announces Suspension of Free Nutritious Meals During School Holidays, Efficiency Saves Rp3 Trillion
The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) will halt the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme during all holiday periods, including school breaks from 22 June to 13 July 2026, affecting all beneficiaries including pregnant women and toddlers. The policy, formalised in Circular No. 12 of 2026, aims to standardise operational governance and resource efficiency, saving an estimated Rp3 trillion in SPPG incentives. Unlike previous holiday periods, no bundled meal distributions will occur, and kitchen facilities are strictly prohibited from any use during the downtime.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 18:40 WIB
Perbanas Reveals Structural Issues Behind Sluggish MSME Lending
Indonesia's National Banks Association (Perbanas) has identified that sluggish growth in micro, small, and medium enterprise (MSME) lending is primarily driven by weak demand, with nearly 90% of MSMEs not seeking loans because they feel they do not need them. Despite high bank approval rates of around 94.3% for formal MSMEs, credit growth has contracted to -0.47% year-on-year as of February 2026, indicating a structural problem rather than a supply-side constraint. Perbanas has launched an MSME Centre to help bridge the gap and foster a more inclusive, bankable sector.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 18:40 WIB
PLN EPI Completes Crucial Hot Tap on WNTS Pemping Gas Pipeline
PT PLN Energi Primer Indonesia (PLN EPI) has successfully completed the critical hot tap connection on the West Natuna Transportation System (WNTS) Pemping pipeline. This milestone paves the way for natural gas from the Natuna fields to flow to Batam and Sumatra, enhancing domestic energy security and reducing reliance on fuel oil. The project is expected to bolster Batam's competitiveness as an industrial and logistics hub while supporting national economic growth.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 18:39 WIB
BGN Removes 76 Affluent Schools in Java from Free Nutritious Meal Programme
Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has identified 76 schools in Java with 39,352 students deemed financially capable, removing them from the priority list for the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. The agency plans to redirect the budget to more vulnerable groups, including underdeveloped regions and at-risk populations such as pregnant women and toddlers. The data is preliminary and will be updated as BGN continues verifying socioeconomic indicators to ensure aid reaches those most in need.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 18:39 WIB
East Kalimantan Police Chief Visits Retired Officers and Widows Ahead of 80th Bhayangkara Anniversary
The East Kalimantan Regional Police conducted a social outreach visit to retired officers, widows, and ailing personnel in Balikpapan on Thursday. Led by Police Chief Inspector General Endar Priantoro, the initiative provided moral support and basic food packages as part of the 80th Bhayangkara Day commemorations. The activity aimed to strengthen emotional bonds between active members and the extended police family.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 18:38 WIB
KPK Chief Confirms No Plan Yet to Halt Investigation into Free Nutritious Meals Programme
The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has clarified that it has no administrative plan to discontinue its inquiry into alleged corruption within the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme at the National Nutrition Agency. Chairman Setyo Budiyanto stated the investigation remains at the preliminary stage and will await an internal case review before deciding on further steps. The statement aims to correct earlier reports suggesting the probe had stalled following a separate investigation by the Attorney General's Office.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 18:38 WIB
West Bandung State School Admissions to Open Soon: Key Dates, Registration, and Capacity
Online registration for the 2026/2027 academic year at state primary and junior secondary schools in West Bandung Regency will commence shortly. The local education office has prepared approximately 31,000 seats across 701 primary schools and over 17,000 seats across 67 junior secondary schools.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 18:38 WIB
Market Begins to Anticipate Results of MSCI and FTSE Reviews, Says Analyst
Market participants, particularly institutional and foreign investors, are already pricing in the outcomes of the upcoming MSCI and FTSE Russell reviews, reflected in nearly Rp 80 trillion in foreign outflows this year. Kiwoom Sekuritas remains optimistic that Indonesia will retain its emerging market status, though the reviews carry significant psychological weight due to concerns over market accessibility, regulatory certainty, and governance. The key announcements are scheduled between 19 and 24 June 2026.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 18:36 WIB
China launches new campaign to boost NEV consumption in rural areas
China has initiated a new campaign aimed at accelerating the adoption of new energy vehicles (NEVs) in rural regions. The initiative, led by the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, will focus on improving trade-in services and selecting suitable vehicle models for rural consumers. It also seeks to enhance supporting infrastructure, including charging and battery-swapping facilities, to stimulate market demand.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 18:35 WIB
Amran Guarantees Rice Stocks Safe Until April 2027 Despite El Niño and Drought
Agriculture Minister Amran Sulaiman has assured that national rice stocks are sufficient for the next 11 months, lasting until April 2027, despite the threat of the El Niño Godzilla weather phenomenon. He detailed current reserves, standing crops, and market stocks, while outlining mitigation measures including irrigation projects and land optimisation. The minister also addressed falling egg prices and plans for expanding cocoa, coffee, and coconut plantations.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 18:34 WIB
Russia Hopes US and Iran Maintain Peace Commitment
Russia has welcomed the memorandum of understanding between the United States and Iran aimed at ending their conflict, calling for all parties to uphold the agreement and prevent further escalation. Moscow expressed hope that the peace deal would restore trust among Persian Gulf nations and ensure safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, while also reaffirming its readiness to support long-term stabilisation efforts in the Middle East.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 18:33 WIB
NTB Religious Affairs Office Proposes Moratorium on New Islamic Boarding School Permits Amid Violence Surge
The Regional Office of the Ministry of Religious Affairs in West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) has proposed a moratorium on new Islamic boarding school (ponpes) permits to the central government. The move follows a spate of violence cases within the province's pesantren and aims to allow authorities to focus on improving supervision of the existing 998 institutions. The proposal will be coordinated with the provincial governor, aligning with efforts to establish a dedicated task force for violence prevention in schools and boarding schools.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 18:33 WIB
Dedication of Landis Officers in Safeguarding the Worship Rights of Elderly Pilgrims
Indonesian Hajj officers in Mecca demonstrate profound dedication by providing intensive care for thousands of elderly pilgrims. The special Landis team assists with personal needs, medical management, and spiritual guidance to ensure the elderly can complete their pilgrimage rites. Their efforts culminate in emotional farewells as pilgrims express deep gratitude for being treated like family.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 18:32 WIB
The 26-Year Journey of the Hotel Sultan Dispute Until Its Execution
The Indonesian government has executed a court order to reclaim the land beneath the Hotel Sultan in Jakarta, ending a 26-year legal dispute with PT Indobuildco. The operation, involving over 3,000 security personnel, faced resistance from mobilised masses but resulted in the state regaining control of the asset. The execution follows a court ruling that the land, part of the Gelora Bung Karno complex, is a state asset whose building rights had expired.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 18:31 WIB
Agriculture Minister Sends Letter to National Police Chief to Crack Down on Palm Oil Mills Unilaterally Cutting FFB Prices
Indonesia's Agriculture Minister has requested the National Police Chief to take firm action against palm oil mills that are unilaterally lowering fresh fruit bunch (FFB) prices despite a strengthening US dollar and rising global CPO prices. The government intervention follows reports of irrational price drops affecting millions of smallholder farmers, with around 100 mills still refusing to raise prices. The minister is optimistic that prices will fully recover within a week.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 18:30 WIB
Finance Minister Purbaya Clarifies Indonesia's Fiscal Health to China After Misinformation
Indonesian Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa corrected misconceptions about Indonesia's fiscal condition during a meeting with his Chinese counterpart Lan Fo'an in Beijing. He assured the Chinese minister that Indonesia's budget deficit is well under control at 0.70% of GDP, far below the legal limit. The two ministers also aligned their views on supporting multilateralism in addressing global issues.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 18:30 WIB
Rosatom Continues to Explore Potential for Floating Nuclear Power Plants in Indonesia
Russian state nuclear corporation Rosatom is actively pursuing a deal to build floating nuclear power plants in Indonesia, citing the technology's suitability for the archipelagic nation. CEO Alexey Likhachev confirmed recent discussions with President Prabowo Subianto focused on localising the technology, following Indonesia's expressed interest in nuclear energy for its transition. Rosatom is also expanding its nuclear partnerships across ASEAN, including projects in Vietnam, Laos, and the Philippines.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 18:30 WIB
Pakistan Welcomes US-Iran Islamabad MoU, Praises Peace Diplomacy
Pakistan's President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have welcomed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the United States and Iran in Islamabad, calling it a historic milestone for regional and global peace. The agreement, signed electronically and effective immediately, is seen as a crucial step towards resolving a conflict that has disrupted energy supplies, trade, and global economic stability. Pakistani leaders praised the diplomatic efforts of both nations and acknowledged the supportive roles played by China, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, Egypt, and Russia.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 18:30 WIB
Ministry of Forestry to Revise Ministerial Regulation 8/2021, Emphasising Inclusive Partnerships and Customary Rights
The Ministry of Forestry is revising Ministerial Regulation P.8/2021 to improve operational governance, focusing on inclusive partnerships and integrating customary (ulayat) rights into forest planning and utilisation. The revision aims to ensure that the Job Creation Law delivers economic benefits and job creation through better coordination of Forest Management Units (KPH).
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 18:30 WIB
TAP Untuk Negeri Supports Child Nutrition in Remote Berau Areas
PT Anugerah Agung Prima Abadi (AAPA) has launched a programme to distribute nutritious milk to schoolchildren in remote villages of Berau, East Kalimantan, to support their growth and development. The initiative, part of the 'TAP Untuk Negeri' programme, targets students at two primary schools in Muara Lesan and Lesan Dayak. It aims to complement government efforts to reduce stunting and improve human capital development ahead of Indonesia's 2045 vision.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 18:28 WIB
Public increasingly scrutinises drinking water quality for health
Indonesian consumers are paying greater attention to the quality of their drinking water, driven by rising health awareness. PT Coway International Indonesia has responded by launching a new water purifier, the Slim Stand, which combines reverse osmosis and dual UV sterilisation technology. The product is designed for modern urban households and has obtained the Indonesian National Standard (SNI) certification.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 18:28 WIB
BI Rate Rises to 5.75%, Check the Most Stable Mortgage Interest Rates
Bank Indonesia has raised its benchmark interest rate by 25 basis points to 5.75%, a move expected to trigger adjustments in bank lending rates, including mortgages. The article provides a list of banks with the most stable base lending rates for mortgages and advises floating-rate debtors to reassess their repayment capacity.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 18:27 WIB
Minister: Infrastructure Strengthened to Mitigate 'Godzilla' El Niño
Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman has outlined a series of infrastructure measures to mitigate the impact of the 'Godzilla' El Niño phenomenon on national food production. The government is focusing on building reservoirs, irrigation pumps, and deep wells, as well as optimising swamp land and opening new rice fields. Current rice stock levels and standing crop estimates suggest national reserves can meet demand for the next 10 to 11 months.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 18:27 WIB
Latest Conditions at the Horse Statue Protest in Central Jakarta
Student groups continue to demonstrate at the Horse Statue in Central Jakarta, demanding a total evaluation of the Free Nutritious Meals programme. Tensions briefly escalated when protesters attempted to burn a sack of dry leaves, prompting police intervention. An earlier counter-protest supporting the programme's continuation had already dispersed.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 18:27 WIB
Sigi Earthquake, Central Sulawesi: 3 Residents Dead, 1,652 Homes Damaged
The death toll from the earthquake in Sigi Regency, Central Sulawesi, has risen to three, with two additional victims succumbing to pre-existing medical conditions triggered by the quake. The disaster has affected over 6,400 people across four sub-districts, leaving 1,652 homes damaged and dozens of public facilities, including schools and places of worship, in ruins. Authorities continue to collect data as reports from affected areas are still arriving at the emergency command post.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 18:27 WIB
Defence Ministry Reveals Why 30,000 Prospective Red-and-White Cooperative Managers Undergo 45-Day Military Training
Indonesia's Ministry of Defence has confirmed that over 35,000 prospective managers of the Red-and-White Village and Fishermen's Cooperatives will undergo 45 days of basic military training. The programme, conducted across 67 TNI units nationwide, aims to instil discipline, leadership, and a strong work ethic. The training is a prerequisite for their roles in the government-backed cooperative initiative.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 18:26 WIB
Pandalungan 2 Train Occupancy on Gambir-Jember Route Reaches 97.5 Percent
The newly launched Pandalungan 2 train service connecting Gambir in Jakarta to Jember in East Java recorded a 97.5 percent occupancy rate on its inaugural journey. The high demand, with 390 passengers boarding from the Jakarta operational area, underscores the public's need for comfortable long-distance rail travel. The service, operated by PT KAI, is part of a broader commitment to expanding travel options and improving connectivity to East Java.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 18:26 WIB
Woman with Suspected Mental Illness Stays with Deceased Husband for a Week, Believing He Was Ill
A woman in Serang, Banten, believed to be suffering from a mental disorder, lived with her husband's decomposing body for nearly a week, telling neighbours he was merely sick and refusing to eat. The body of the 68-year-old man was discovered after residents investigated a foul odour they initially thought was a dead rat. Police suspect the man had been dead for six days, highlighting a tragic case involving mental health and social isolation.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 18:25 WIB
Free Nutritious Meal Programme Distribution Suspended During School Holidays
Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has announced a temporary halt to the distribution of the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme during the school holiday period. The suspension will be used to reorganise and standardise the programme's operational governance to improve efficiency. The policy applies to all beneficiaries, including schoolchildren, pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and toddlers.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 18:25 WIB
Baznas distributes education scholarships through OKU Cerdas Programme
The National Amil Zakat Agency (Baznas) of Ogan Komering Ulu Regency has begun distributing educational scholarships to high-achieving students from underprivileged families under the OKU Cerdas Programme. The initiative, funded by public zakat, infak, and sedekah donations, targets 100 beneficiaries this year, with an initial 25 recipients ranging from primary school pupils to university students. The programme is one of five flagship local government schemes designed to improve welfare across education, religious development, economic empowerment, health, and social aid.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 18:25 WIB
Who is the Ideal Figure to Lead the Former Hotel Sultan After State Takeover?
Following the government's execution of the former Hotel Sultan site, property experts emphasise that the new manager must be an experienced developer with strong financial capacity and expertise in integrated mixed-use projects. The government aims to redevelop the strategic Gelora Bung Karno area quickly, potentially as a transit-oriented development, and recover state assets under President Prabowo's directive.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 18:22 WIB
Indonesia eyes major role in US$3.56 trillion global halal market
Indonesia is positioning itself to capture a larger share of the rapidly expanding global halal market, projected to reach US$3.56 trillion by 2029. With domestic Muslim consumer spending estimated at Rp11,182 trillion, the government sees a strategic opportunity to boost local production and import substitution. The Industry Ministry is intensifying efforts to assist small businesses in meeting mandatory halal certification requirements ahead of the October deadline.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 18:22 WIB
Bandung City Government Beautifies Merdeka Street with New Bicycle Markings
The Bandung municipal administration has installed dedicated bicycle lane markings on Jalan Merdeka to improve cyclist safety and promote eco-friendly mobility. The initiative, part of a broader urban beautification and traffic management effort, also includes the placement of concrete barriers at Taman Cipaganti to prevent wrong-way driving. Local cyclists have welcomed the new markings, citing increased safety, particularly during peak weekend usage.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 18:21 WIB
South Jakarta alliance says MBG crucial for children in remote areas
The South Jakarta Community Alliance has voiced strong support for President Prabowo's free meals programme (MBG), calling it a vital investment in Indonesia's future and children's global competitiveness. Coordinator Fakhri Ikbar stressed that any implementation shortcomings should be addressed collaboratively rather than used to create division. The group also backed other government priorities such as anti-corruption efforts and downstream industrialisation, linking them to improved welfare for lower-income communities.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 18:21 WIB
Saline Coastal Land Transformed into Integrated Food and Fisheries Hub
A collaborative programme in Batang, Central Java, is converting high-salinity coastal land into productive agricultural and fisheries zones. The Minapadi Salin initiative integrates biosaline rice, saline tilapia, and seaweed cultivation to bolster national food security and create new income streams for coastal communities. The project, involving state gas company PGN, BRIN, and local government, has already demonstrated significant economic returns in other regions.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 18:21 WIB
Bandung Job Fair 2026 Draws Crowds of Job Seekers
The Job Fair Future Connect 2026 in Central Bandung, initiated by the city's Manpower Office, has been met with enthusiasm from job seekers who praise its efficiency. The event integrates digital registration via the 'New Bimma' app, allowing fresh graduates and other applicants to connect directly with multiple companies in one location. Participants hope the government will hold such events regularly to help reduce unemployment in the city.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 18:20 WIB
Thailand Revives Rp 495 Trillion Land Bridge Project to Rival Malacca Strait
Thailand is reviving an ambitious 1 trillion baht (Rp 495 trillion) 'Land Bridge' project to create a logistics corridor connecting the Gulf of Thailand to the Andaman Sea, offering an alternative to the congested Malacca Strait. The plan involves building two deep-sea ports linked by a 90-kilometre railway, promising to cut shipping times and costs, but faces significant local opposition, complex logistical hurdles, and a lack of major investors. Experts suggest the project is economically ambitious and unlikely to rival the Malacca Strait as a global transit route, though it may serve as a strategic domestic corridor.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 18:20 WIB
Women in North Jakarta Trained to Manage Organic Waste to Preserve the Environment
Hundreds of women in North Jakarta participated in an 'Eco Enzyme Workshop' to learn how to convert household organic waste into useful products. The initiative, a collaboration between the local PKK and a church, aims to raise environmental awareness and supports the National Clean River Movement 2026. The event also contributed to a mass eco-enzyme production attempt for an Indonesian world record.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 18:20 WIB
Siemens Tech Summit 2026 Forges Partnerships to Accelerate Indonesia's Digital Industry and Energy Transition
The Siemens Tech Summit 2026 in Indonesia convened over 1,000 industry players to accelerate digital transformation and the transition to net-zero emissions. The event featured the launch of the 'X' digital platform and saw the signing of strategic partnerships with Accenture, PLN Enjiniring, and Telkomsel to boost industrial digitalisation and energy resilience. Siemens also expanded its educational commitment by granting software to seven additional universities to develop local engineering talent.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 18:20 WIB
Easy Ways to Check and Print Family Cards Online, No Need to Visit Dukcapil
Indonesian citizens can now verify and print their Family Cards (Kartu Keluarga) digitally without visiting a civil registry office. The government provides multiple online channels including the IKD mobile app, the official Dukcapil website, email, social media, and a hotline. Self-printed cards featuring a QR code electronic signature are legally valid.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 18:19 WIB
Indonesia explores China partnership on traditional medicine center
Indonesia's Culture Minister Fadli Zon has welcomed a proposed traditional medicine centre with China, envisioning it as a platform for cultural expression and wellness promotion centred on jamu. The minister also sees opportunities to expand bilateral cooperation into the revitalisation of historic sites and old towns across Indonesia. The initiative aligns with broader efforts to preserve cultural heritage and develop human resources in the cultural sector.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 18:19 WIB
DPR Commission III Urges Police to Consider Naming Wife of Hanania Travel Director as Suspect
House Commission III Chairman Habiburokhman has urged investigators to consider naming Anisa, the wife and commissioner of Hanania Travel's director, as a suspect in an alleged hajj and umrah fraud case. Police currently maintain her status as a witness to help trace assets, but lawmakers argue her corporate role and spousal relationship warrant deeper investigation. The case involves total estimated losses of Rp95.22 billion, with Rp27.52 billion yet to be refunded to victims.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 18:19 WIB
European Union Formally Tightens Migration Policy
The European Parliament has approved stricter migration rules granting member states broader authority to deport rejected asylum seekers. The new policy allows for the establishment of return hubs in non-EU countries, while still requiring formal approval from all 27 member states before implementation.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 18:19 WIB
South Sumatra BPBD Proposes Four Additional Water Bombing Helicopters
South Sumatra's disaster mitigation agency has requested four additional water bombing helicopters to bolster firefighting capabilities ahead of the peak dry season. The province currently operates six aircraft and seeks to expand the fleet to eight water bombers and two patrol helicopters to combat forest and land fires.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 18:17 WIB
Depok City Government Guarantees 2026-2027 Student Admission Free from Seat Buying and Graft
The Depok City Government has issued a firm guarantee that the 2026-2027 state junior high school (SMPN) admission process will be free from seat buying and gratification. The Head of the Education Office emphasised a zero-tolerance policy towards fraud, with strict sanctions promised for any violations. The initiative aligns with central government directives to ensure a transparent and fair selection process.