Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 21 July 2026

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Fire breaks out at Djakarta Theater building

A fire, believed to have been caused by an electrical short circuit, broke out in the kitchen of the XXI cinema at the Djakarta Theater building in Central Jakarta on Tuesday evening. The blaze was swiftly contained by firefighters, and no casualties were reported. The incident resulted in an estimated financial loss of Rp20 million.

West Java DPRD Supports Drought Emergency Status in 27 Regencies

The West Java Regional People's Representative Council (DPRD) has endorsed the provincial government's decision to declare a drought and forest fire emergency in 27 regencies and cities from 1 July to 30 September 2026. The policy is seen as a crucial anticipatory measure against the impacts of El Niño and climate anomalies expected during this year's dry season. The council also noted that the provincial government can utilise its Unexpected Expenditure budget mechanism to fund emergency response efforts.

KPK: Holiday Parcels for Civil Servants Constitute Gratification

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has clarified that holiday parcels given to civil servants or state officials in connection with their duties are classified as gratification. The warning was issued during a briefing at the Ministry of Immigration and Corrections, where officials stressed that such gifts from business partners are strictly prohibited. The KPK noted that accepted parcels may be declared state property, requiring the recipient to pay compensation if they wish to keep them.

Eight Illegal Miners Arrested in West Nusa Tenggara Conservation Area

A joint task force has arrested eight individuals suspected of illegally transporting gold-bearing ore from the Tanjung Tampa Nature Tourism Park in Central Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara. Authorities seized 157 sacks of material, a dump truck, and a pick-up vehicle during the operation, which followed public reports of repeated suspicious transport activity. The case highlights ongoing efforts to combat illegal mining within Indonesia's protected conservation zones.

Energy Ministry records 93 hydrogen ecosystem projects worth Rp32 trillion

Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) has recorded 93 hydrogen ecosystem development projects with a total investment value of Rp32 trillion. The initiatives, which include a pilot hydrogen-diesel bus and a geothermal-to-hydrogen project in Ulubelu, aim to boost energy resilience and reduce diesel dependency in remote areas. The government is targeting the commercial operation of a hydrogen project in Sumba by 2028.

Police Urged to Drop Case Against Journalist Babe Aldo, Citing Criminalisation

The PASTI Indonesia organisation has urged the police to halt the investigation against journalist Ali Ridhok, known as Babe Aldo, claiming it constitutes criminalisation. The group argues that the case contradicts press freedom and a Constitutional Court ruling that disputes involving journalists should not be treated as criminal matters. They have also requested a hearing with the House of Representatives' Commission III to address the issue.

KPK Seizes IDR 9.06 Billion in Assets in West Lombok Regent Graft Case

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has seized assets worth approximately IDR 9.06 billion in connection with a graft case involving West Lombok Regent Lalu Ahmad Zaini. The seized items include cash, a Toyota Alphard, and land certificates, following a sting operation on 20 July 2026. The case involves alleged conflicts of interest in procurement and bribery within the West Lombok Regency administration.

Batam Sees Rise in Child Sexual Abuse Cases; Parents Urged to Tighten Supervision

Authorities in Batam are urging parents to increase supervision of their children following a rise in sexual abuse cases involving minors. A recent incident handled by the Sagulung Police highlights the vulnerability of teenagers, with perpetrators often using emotional manipulation rather than physical force. Officials stress that open communication within families and community vigilance are essential to protecting children.

Joint Task Force Finds Remnants of Illegal Gold Mining Ahead of UNESCO Revalidation in Merangin Geopark

A joint task force in Jambi discovered abandoned equipment and former illegal gold mining (PETI) sites within the Merangin Geopark, a UNESCO Global Geopark. The operation, conducted ahead of a crucial UNESCO revalidation assessment in early August 2026, aimed to ensure the site's preservation. Authorities confirmed no active mining was found but destroyed a wooden sluice box used for sifting gold, as the region prepares to prove it still meets world heritage standards.

North Sumatra PWI Reports Lawyer HP to Police for Allegedly Insulting Journalists

The North Sumatra branch of the Indonesian Journalists Association (PWI) has filed a police report against a lawyer, identified by the initials HP, for allegedly making disparaging remarks about the journalistic profession. The report was lodged despite HP having issued an apology, as the PWI insists on a legal process to clarify the matter. The alleged insult occurred during a press conference at the Attorney General's Office.

Pezeshkian: Khamenei Urged End to 'No War, No Peace' Situation

Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian has revealed that the late Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei stressed the need to end the prolonged 'no war, no peace' state with the United States. The remarks come amid ongoing military exchanges between the two nations, despite a recent ceasefire agreement. Pezeshkian emphasised that Iran's diplomatic efforts are focused on protecting national interests with honour and dignity.

UPI Graduates 999 Students, Urges Integrity Amid Economic Pressure

Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia (UPI) has graduated 999 students across various degree programmes, with its rector emphasising that academic qualifications alone are insufficient in the current economic climate. Didi Sukyadi stressed that integrity, trustworthiness, and problem-solving skills are the true determinants of success. The university aims to produce graduates who serve as solutions to societal challenges rather than contributing to them.

Governor Ahmad Luthfi Inaugurates Rp480.6 Billion Chinese Investment in Kendal SEZ

Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi has officially launched the operations of PT DKV Printing Indonesia, a high-tech printing company from China, in the Kendal Special Economic Zone. The firm has invested Rp480.64 billion and employed 500 local workers, signalling strong global investor confidence in the region. A second domestic investment in food processing was also inaugurated, bringing the total new investment in the zone to Rp729.95 billion.

House Passes Indonesia International Financial Centre Bill, Offering Tax Incentives and Special Legal Zone

The Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) has officially passed the Indonesia International Financial Centre (PFII) Bill into law, marking a strategic move to attract global investment and deepen the domestic financial market. The new law establishes a special economic zone with a dedicated authority, offering significant fiscal incentives including a potential 100% tax holiday for up to 50 years. It also introduces a distinct legal framework featuring a special court operating under a common law system to provide regulatory certainty and protect investors.

PLN reports Indonesia has a hydrogen surplus of 125 tonnes

Indonesia is sitting on an annual hydrogen surplus of 125 tonnes, as state electricity firm PLN produces 200 tonnes but only utilises 75 tonnes for power plant cooling systems. PLN is collaborating with Pertamina to build hydrogen refuelling stations and is lobbying for the fuel to power TransJakarta buses. The initiative aims to turn idle production capacity into a foundation for hydrogen-based transport.

Indonesian Wushu Team Requires Overseas Sparring to Mature Asian Games Preparations

The Indonesian national wushu team urgently needs overseas sparring sessions, particularly in China, to sharpen skills and mental fortitude ahead of the 2026 Asian Games. The Indonesian Wushu Executive Board (PBWI) stated that domestic sparring partners are limited and has requested funding support from the Ministry of Youth and Sports to realise the programme. Chef de Mission Todotua Pasaribu was briefed on the requirement during a monitoring visit to the national training camp.

Search for Selayar Boat Sinking Victims Extended by Three Days

The National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas) has extended the search operation for missing passengers from the sunken KM Nurul Salsa in the Selayar Islands, South Sulawesi, for an additional three days. The decision was made after two more bodies were recovered on the seventh day of operations, leaving 16 people still unaccounted for. The search area has been significantly expanded to nearly 3,000 square nautical miles, involving multiple naval vessels and air support.

Buleleng Fire Service Considers Drone Procurement After Pemuteran Forest Fire

The Buleleng Fire and Rescue Service is exploring the acquisition of firefighting drones following a challenging forest and land fire that scorched 48.6 hectares in Pemuteran, Bali. Officials admitted that difficult terrain and lack of water access forced crews to rely on manual methods, sometimes leaving fires to burn out on their own. The agency is also assessing the need for portable long-range pump systems to improve future responses.

NasDem Targets Top Three Finish in 2029 Election, Saan Mustopa Sends Stern Message to Young Cadres

The NasDem Party is aiming to secure a top-three position in the 2029 general election, with its leadership emphasising the critical role of its youth wing in achieving this goal. Deputy Chairman Saan Mustopa described the Garda Pemuda NasDem as the 'spring' from which future party leaders will emerge, stressing the need for integrity and strong cadre development. The youth wing's chairman, Prananda Surya Paloh, rejected the notion that the organisation is merely a peripheral party appendage, calling for it to be a vanguard in the party's 'restoration' efforts.

West Lombok Regent Allegedly Received Rp1.2 Billion Alphard and Sacrificial Cow as Bribes

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has revealed that West Lombok Regent Lalu Ahmad Zaini allegedly accepted bribes worth over Rp1.6 billion, including a Toyota Alphard and a sacrificial cow, from a private company director. The illicit payments are suspected to be linked to a Rp27.1 billion clean water management project won by PT Meconel Sistim Instrument in the regency. The KPK has named the regent and two company directors as suspects in a graft and conflict of interest case following a sting operation.

Legal Expert: Law Enforcement Against Officials Does Not Require Presidential Approval

Constitutional law expert Margarito Kamis has stated that law enforcement actions against state officials, including ministers, do not require the president's permission under Indonesia's presidential system. His comments address the controversy surrounding the investigation of former junior attorney general Febrie Adriansyah, whose lawyer had argued that the legal process should have involved prior coordination with President Prabowo Subianto.

PPATK Records 527,000 Suspicious Transactions Since 2023, Linked to Corruption and Narcotics

Indonesia's Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (PPATK) has logged over 527,000 Suspicious Financial Transaction Reports from 2023 to mid-2026. The reports, sourced from banks and other financial service providers, predominantly relate to alleged corruption, embezzlement, fraud, and narcotics offences. The agency relies on profiling to identify deviations from normal transaction patterns as mandated by the anti-money laundering law.

Gondang Reservoir to Be Dredged to Boost Water Volume

The Lamongan Regency administration, in partnership with the Bengawan Solo River Basin Agency, will commence dredging at Gondang Reservoir in August to restore its capacity and maximise irrigation for agriculture. The reservoir's volume has decreased from an initial 25 million cubic metres to 19.7 million cubic metres, affecting its ability to irrigate over 10,500 hectares of rice fields. Local farmers have welcomed the initiative, noting that increased water volume will reduce their reliance on costly water sources from the Bengawan Jero River.

Energy Ministry to socialise benefits of Andaman Block gas development

Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources is planning a public outreach campaign to explain the benefits of the Andaman Block gas development, prioritising advantages for the people of Aceh. The government is seeking a middle ground between the approved Plan of Development and Aceh's request for onshore processing at the Arun Special Economic Zone. Minister Bahlil Lahadalia noted that the request is under consideration but depends on economic viability, as building a pipeline from the offshore field would be costly.

KPK to Summon West Lombok Officials in Bupati's Project Manipulation Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) plans to summon several officials from West Lombok Regency agencies to deepen the investigation into alleged corruption involving Bupati Lalu Ahmad Zaini. The anti-graft body is probing the flow of funds and the extent of involvement of various regional apparatus organisations (OPD) in the case. Zaini, along with two company directors, has been named a suspect for allegedly manipulating infrastructure projects and receiving billions of rupiah in bribes and gratuities.

Bali Immigration Deports Three Foreigners for Visa Violations, Vows to Intensify Crackdown

Bali Immigration has deported three foreign nationals from India, Singapore, and China for working illegally on tourist and visitor stay permits. The Singaraja Immigration Office confirmed the individuals were conducting paid yoga classes and installing factory machinery, activities prohibited under their visa conditions. Officials reiterated that even unpaid work with economic benefit is a violation, warning that oversight will be strengthened across the province.

PFII Law Seen as Government's Commitment to Building Long-Term Economic Foundations

The ratification of the International Financial Centre Indonesia (PFII) Law is being hailed as a strategic move demonstrating the government's commitment to strengthening the national economy. Analysts view the legislation as a crucial regulatory instrument designed to bolster Indonesia's position amidst global economic shifts and attract international confidence. The focus now shifts to the consistent implementation of the law to ensure it delivers tangible benefits and enhances national competitiveness.

Indonesian Islamic Propagation Institute Proposes Sharia-Based Hajj Governance Reform

The Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) Commission VIII is seeking fiqh perspectives from Islamic organisations on new hajj policies, including the implementation of dam and tanazul. The commission emphasised that hajj management must adhere to sharia provisions as mandated by the latest legal amendments. This initiative follows the completion of dam requirements by over 126,000 Indonesian pilgrims through various schemes.

Ngurah Rai Immigration Takes Action on 531 Foreign National Violations in Six Months

The Ngurah Rai Immigration Office in Bali has carried out 531 administrative enforcement actions against foreign nationals between January and June 2026. The measures include deportations, detentions, and entry bans, with one Chinese national facing prosecution for using a fake travel document. Officials emphasised the actions are aimed at maintaining public order and legal certainty in Indonesia's tourist areas.

Home Affairs Ministry Appoints Nurul Adha as Acting West Lombok Regent Following Graft Arrest

The Ministry of Home Affairs has appointed Deputy Regent Nurul Adha to lead West Lombok temporarily after Regent Lalu Ahmad Zaini was arrested in a corruption sting. The appointment, based on a radiogram issued Tuesday, follows Zaini's detention over an alleged Rp 12 billion project bribery case. The move ensures continuity of governance and public services pending further central government policy.

China Warns Japan Against Abandoning Non-Nuclear Principles

China has strongly criticised recent statements by Japanese Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi advocating for a public debate on nuclear weapons, calling them 'provocative and dangerous'. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian accused Japan's leadership of seeking to abandon its long-standing non-nuclear principles and warned that such moves pose a real threat to regional peace and stability. The rebuke follows Koizumi's remarks that Japan cannot avoid discussing nuclear deterrence, citing a shifting security environment and similar debates in European nations.

Danantara Continues to Strengthen Grassroots Economy Through Ultra Micro Business Empowerment

Danantara Indonesia is reinforcing its commitment to the grassroots economy by empowering ultra-micro businesses, particularly through its partnership with PNM. A recent visit to Mojokerto highlighted the tangible impact of PNM's Mekaar programme, which combines financing with ongoing mentorship and educational support. The initiative has reached over 23 million underprivileged women nationwide, fostering sustainable business growth and family economic resilience.

Task Force PASTI Halts PT Econext Ventures, Illegal Green Investment Shut Down

Indonesia's Investment Alert Task Force (Satgas PASTI) has ordered PT Econext Ventures Indonesia to cease operations for allegedly running an illegal investment scheme disguised as green funding and multi-level marketing. The company lacked the necessary licences from the Financial Services Authority (OJK) and the Ministry of Investment, and its digital platforms were unregistered. This enforcement action signals heightened regulatory scrutiny on securities crowdfunding platforms and aims to protect retail investors from fraudulent schemes.

Mataram City Government Investigates Underpayment of Taxes by Four Taxpayers

The Mataram City Government is intensifying scrutiny of four major taxpayers, including restaurants and hotels, over suspected underpayment of taxes. Initial audits point to discrepancies in revenue reporting and miscalculated tax rates. The Regional Financial Agency expects the recovery from these errors to potentially reach billions of rupiah.

Papua Immigration Deports 49 Foreign Nationals, Mostly from PNG

Immigration authorities in Tanah Papua deported 49 foreign nationals during the first half of 2026, with Papua New Guinea citizens comprising the largest group. The deportations were primarily due to immigration violations such as lacking valid residence permits or entering Indonesian territory illegally. Four foreign nationals remain in detention pending administrative completion before their repatriation.

Coordinating Minister Muhaimin: JKN a 'Giant Gotong Royong' That Must Be Safeguarded Together

Coordinating Minister for Community Empowerment Abdul Muhaimin Iskandar has described the National Health Insurance (JKN) programme as a 'giant gotong royong' effort requiring collective protection. He emphasised that the programme's sustainability must be viewed integrally, covering regulation, financing, fraud prevention, and service quality. The remarks follow a meeting with BPJS Kesehatan officials, aligning with President Prabowo Subianto's directive to strengthen social protection.

Four Primary Schools in Mataram Officially Merged, Old School Land to Be Handed Over to City Government

The Mataram city government has officially merged four state primary schools starting this new academic year, relocating all pupils to the main school sites. The vacated school buildings and land will be returned to the municipal government for future use. The education department has also confirmed that teaching staff will be redistributed to avoid duplication of roles.

Saan Opens NasDem Youth Congress, Targets Top 3 Finish in 2029 Election

NasDem Deputy Chairman Saan Mustopa officially opened the party's second Youth Wing Congress, setting an ambitious target for the party to finish among the top three in the 2029 general election. The party has seen a steady increase in its vote share across three consecutive elections, with the youth wing contributing significantly to its electoral success. Youth Wing Chairman Prananda Surya Paloh highlighted the organisation's growing role in recruitment and cadre development, noting that its contribution rose to 1.5 million votes in 2024.

Jakarta Environment Agency Strengthens Pollution Control as Dry Season Peaks

The Jakarta Environment Agency (DLH) is intensifying air pollution control measures ahead of the peak dry season in August. Strategies include expanding emissions testing, enhancing monitoring via a network of air quality stations, and tightening enforcement against industrial polluters. The agency is also advancing a long-term Regional Regulation on Environmental Protection and Management to ensure sustainable development.

Government outlines three steps to accelerate cooperative development

Cooperatives Minister Ferry Juliantono has announced a three-pronged strategy to revitalise Indonesia's cooperative sector, including modernising their image, strengthening governance, and embracing digitalisation. The initiative is part of a broader push to integrate village-level cooperatives into the national economy, with 18,285 village cooperatives already established and a target of 30,000 by August 2026. The programme aims to channel key public services such as subsidised LPG, fertiliser, and microcredit through these cooperatives to boost rural welfare.

AKSES Chairman: PFII Law a New Foundation for Indonesia's Global Competitiveness

Suroto, Chairman of AKSES, has stated that the newly enacted Financial Centre International Indonesia (PFII) Law is a strategic milestone for long-term economic transformation. He argues the legislation will build a credible, integrated financial hub to attract high-quality global investment and boost Indonesia's international competitiveness. Suroto also stressed that successful implementation requires consistent regulation, good governance, and strengthened human capital.

Ministry of Communication and Digital Launches Digital Literacy Declaration to Support Child Protection Regulation

The Indonesian Ministry of Communication and Digital has inaugurated a 'Digital Literacy School Declaration' involving eight Jakarta schools to support the implementation of the Child Protection in the Digital Space Regulation (PP Tunas). Minister Meutya Hafid emphasised that protecting children online requires more than just age restrictions, calling on digital platforms to eliminate addictive features and harmful content such as online gambling and pornography. The government is delaying access to high-risk social media for children under 16 while pushing platforms to reform and create safer, age-appropriate environments.

SAR Team Finds Two More Bodies from KM Nurul Salsa, Extends Search Operation

The joint search and rescue team has recovered two more bodies from the KM Nurul Salsa ferry disaster, bringing the death toll to three. With 16 people still missing, the SAR operation has been officially extended for an additional three days beyond the initial seven-day period. The vessel, carrying 78 people, experienced engine trouble en route to Selayar Island before the incident.

Mystery of Missing Silver in the Sun Finally Solved After Decades

A decades-old astronomical puzzle regarding the unexpectedly low levels of silver detected in the Sun has been resolved. New research reveals the discrepancy was due to oversimplified atmospheric models, not an actual deficit of the element. Recalculations using a more complex model show the Sun's silver content is 55 per cent higher than previously estimated, aligning it with ancient meteorites.

China Condemns Japan's Discussion on Nuclear Weapons as 'Dangerous'

China has strongly condemned recent statements by Japanese Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi advocating for an open debate on nuclear weapons policy. Beijing described the remarks as a 'provocative and dangerous' challenge to the post-war international order, accusing Japan of harbouring ambitions to abandon its long-standing non-nuclear principles. The criticism follows a series of moves by Tokyo, including discussions on nuclear sharing and the development of nuclear-powered submarines, which China claims pose a real threat to regional peace and stability.

Finance Minister Purbaya: DJP Monitoring Taxpayer Accounts is Standard Practice

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has stated that the Directorate General of Taxes' (DJP) authority to monitor taxpayer financial accounts is a standard procedure, not a new policy. He emphasised that compliant taxpayers have nothing to fear, especially with the implementation of the Coretax system which automates transaction monitoring. The DJP has also issued a circular to strengthen internal governance regarding access to financial information, with several state-owned banks already connected host-to-host with the tax system.

Where Could Indonesia's New International Financial Center Be Based?

The Indonesian government is accelerating plans to launch its new International Financial Center (PFII) this year, with Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa stating that current global uncertainty could boost demand for such a hub. Potential locations under consideration include special economic zones in Bali, such as Kura Kura and Sanur, with the final decision to be based on infrastructure readiness, development costs, and attractiveness to foreign investors. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to strengthen Indonesia's position as a regional financial centre.

Tebo Police Destroy Seven Illegal Gold Mining Rafts on the Batanghari River

A joint task force in Tebo Regency, Jambi, has destroyed seven pontoon rafts used for illegal gold mining along the Batanghari River. The operation, led by the Tebo Police Chief, targeted unlicensed mining activities in the Sumay District. Authorities reported that while no active mining was observed, the abandoned rafts were burned as a preventive measure to deter future illegal operations.

BP BUMN: Asset Consolidation to Add 13,000 Hectares to Danareksa's Industrial Estates

Indonesia's State-Owned Enterprise Supervisory Board (BP BUMN) has announced that the consolidation of state assets will add over 13,000 hectares to the industrial zones managed by Danareksa. The move aims to strengthen Danareksa's position as a major industrial estate manager and enhance the country's investment ecosystem. Officials expect the integrated management of these estates to serve as a backbone for attracting future investment into Indonesia.

Reproductive Health Education in Pesantren Aims to Prevent Sexual Violence

Indonesia's largest Islamic organisation, Nahdlatul Ulama, is promoting reproductive health education within pesantren (Islamic boarding schools) to combat sexual violence and improve adolescent health. Officials argue that proper understanding of reproductive health, which extends beyond sexual behaviour to include maternal mortality and anaemia, is crucial for building a safer ecosystem. The initiative aligns with national efforts to reduce maternal deaths and stunting rates.

Anti-Rash Movement Expands Education to 450 Posyandu and 180 Community Health Centres

The Anti-Rash Movement is expanding its educational outreach to 50,000 mothers and babies across Indonesia, targeting 450 integrated health posts (posyandu) and 180 community health centres. Launched in collaboration with the Ministry of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection, the initiative aims to raise awareness about infant skin health and prevent nappy rash. The programme underscores the importance of maintaining the skin barrier to support optimal child growth and development.

KAI Logistik Manages 8.7 Million Tonnes of Freight in First Half of 2026

State-owned rail logistics firm KAI Logistik handled approximately 8.7 million tonnes of freight during the first half of 2026, driven by strong coal shipments and significant growth in container and retail services. The company reported a 1.5 million tonne increase in volume in the second quarter compared to the first, supported by nearly all business lines. KAI Logistik is also diversifying into new commodities such as Crude Palm Oil to sustain its growth momentum.

Creating an Inclusive Environment for People with Vitiligo

A skincare company in Indonesia is advocating for greater public understanding of vitiligo to foster a more inclusive society. The initiative, marked on World Vitiligo Day, included recognising ten inspirational individuals living with the skin condition. The firm emphasised that beauty is about self-acceptance and that everyone deserves to feel confident and valued regardless of their skin condition.

To Watch Spain Win, Gazans Brave Bombs in Search of Internet

For Palestinians in Gaza, Spain's World Cup victory represented a powerful symbol of humanitarian solidarity amid ongoing conflict. Residents defied severe electricity and internet shortages to follow the tournament, viewing Spain's pro-Palestinian stance as a beacon of hope. The celebrations were tempered by the constant threat of violence, including a recent Israeli airstrike that killed a humanitarian worker who had organised public screenings.

Rental Dispute Ends with Woman Locked Inside Daycare in South Tangerang

A woman was trapped for two hours inside a mother and child care facility in South Tangerang after an unknown person locked the rolling door from the outside. Police suspect the incident was triggered by a rental dispute over the shophouse premises. The victim was eventually evacuated by firefighters using a ladder from the second floor.

NasDem Youth Wing Chief Prananda Surya Paloh Declares Youth as Agents of Restoration

Prananda Surya Paloh, Chairman of Garda Pemuda NasDem, has called on Indonesian youth to act as agents of change and restoration rather than mere political objects ahead of the demographic bonus. Speaking at the organisation's second congress in Jakarta, he stressed the need for capable, independent youth to convert demographic potential into economic progress. Deputy Chairman Saan Mustopa added that the youth wing must bridge the party and young voters to succeed in increasingly fierce political competition.

NTB Provincial Government Deploys 80 Rapid Response Team Personnel to Survey Damaged Roads in Lombok-Sumbawa

The West Nusa Tenggara Provincial Government has launched a Rapid Response Team (TRC) for infrastructure, deploying 80 personnel to assess and repair damaged provincial roads across Lombok and Sumbawa. Governor Iqbal highlighted that the province had historically lacked a dedicated road maintenance budget, but has now secured 15 heavy equipment units through grants from various ministries. The team has been instructed to begin work immediately, with a focus on 20 priority points, and a temporary complaint channel has been established for the public.

BGN Reveals Data Overlaps in Free Nutritious Meal Programme, One School Served by Two Kitchens

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has acknowledged data discrepancies in its Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme, including an instance where a single school was found to be served by two different kitchens. The agency plans to integrate its data with the Ministry of Education's Dapodik system to ensure real-time accuracy and transparency. Officials stated that cleaning and validating the data is crucial for accurate budget planning and public accountability.

West Sumatra and Manpower Ministry Select Participants for Japan Internship Programme

The West Sumatra provincial government, in collaboration with Indonesia's Manpower Ministry and IM Japan, has commenced the selection process for a 2026 internship programme in Japan. A total of 155 young people are undergoing a series of tests, including administrative checks, basic mathematics, and physical fitness assessments. Officials hope the programme will transform participants from job seekers into job creators upon their return, equipped with international-standard technical skills and official competency certificates.

Acting MPR Secretary-General Promotes Anti-Corruption Culture Through Civil Servant Integrity

The Acting Secretary-General of Indonesia's People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) has called for a strengthened anti-corruption culture within the secretariat, emphasising simplicity and honesty as foundational values. Speaking at an anti-corruption awareness event, she highlighted Indonesia's low Corruption Perception Index score of 34 and urged civil servants to begin with small, ethical steps in daily life. The initiative is part of a broader commitment to enhance internal governance and integrity within the legislative body.

NasDem Youth Guard Holds Second Congress, Prananda: A Momentum to Forge Future Leaders

The NasDem Youth Guard (Garda Pemuda NasDem) inaugurated its Second Congress in Jakarta, marking 15 years of the organisation. Chairman Prananda Surya Paloh described the event as a crucial moment to consolidate ideas and ignite a new spirit for Indonesia's restoration. The congress, attended by senior party officials and regional leaders, will also elect a new leadership board.

PSSI and Djarum Foundation to Host Srikandi Merdeka Cup 2026 for U-17 Women's Team Selection

The Football Association of Indonesia (PSSI) and Bakti Olahraga Djarum Foundation are collaborating to organise the Srikandi Merdeka Cup 2026, an international women's football tournament for the U-17 age group. The event, scheduled for August 2026 in Kudus, Central Java, will feature eight teams from seven countries and serve as a crucial preparation platform for Indonesia's squad ahead of the 2027 AFC U-17 Women's Asian Cup Qualifiers. PSSI views the tournament as a strategic opportunity for talent scouting and providing international match experience for the national team.

81st Indonesian Independence Day Ceremony to be Centred in Jakarta, Not Nusantara

State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi has confirmed that the main commemoration for Indonesia's 81st Independence Day will be held in Jakarta, rather than the new capital Nusantara. The government is still finalising the concept, which aims to include a wider segment of the public and micro, small, and medium enterprises. Officials are also preparing the official logo through a public participation process.

Not Just Job Seekers, Young Generation Encouraged to Become Job Creators

Indonesia's Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (UMKM) is urging universities to produce graduates with an entrepreneurial mindset, not just job seekers. The initiative aims to foster young innovators and business founders through collaborative programmes like WIBAWA Grow Day 2026. The government targets raising the national entrepreneurship ratio to 3.6 per cent by 2029 and 8 per cent by 2045.

ORI030 Quota Raised to Rp35 Trillion as Market Awaits BI Rate Decision

The Indonesian government has increased the issuance target for the ORI030 retail bond to Rp35 trillion due to strong investor demand ahead of the final offering week. Market participants are also closely watching Bank Indonesia's upcoming rate decision, which is expected to raise the benchmark rate to 6% to stabilise the rupiah. The interplay between the new bond supply and monetary policy is influencing strategies for money market and fixed-income mutual funds.

MPR Deputy Speaker: Renewable Energy Bill to be Finalised This Year

Indonesia's Renewable Energy Bill is 95 percent complete and expected to be enacted this year, according to Deputy Speaker of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) Eddy Soeparno. The legislation, alongside a forthcoming climate change bill, is seen as crucial for advancing the nation's energy transition. Soeparno highlighted the irony of Indonesia's abundant renewable resources while the country still imports one million barrels of crude oil daily.

Former Surabaya Zoo Director Named Corruption Suspect, Allegedly Caused Rp10.2 Billion in State Losses

The East Java High Prosecutor's Office has named CA, the former president director of the Surabaya Zoo (PD KBS), a suspect in a corruption case involving the misuse of company funds. Investigators allege that between 2023 and 2024, CA ordered fictitious expenditures for personal gain, resulting in state losses of approximately Rp10.2 billion. The alleged misappropriation also reportedly led to poorly maintained facilities and suboptimal animal care at the zoo.

China Accuses Philippines of Illegal 'Stranding' and Attacks in South China Sea

Beijing has accused Filipino military personnel of illegally stranding a vessel on Ren'ai Jiao and deliberately attacking Chinese coast guard ships. The incident, which occurred on Monday, has escalated tensions ahead of a key ASEAN foreign ministers' meeting in Manila. China has lodged a formal protest and urged the Philippines to withdraw its vessel and cease provocations.

Marcell Siahaan Pushes for Fair Royalties Through Digital Catalogue Revival

Indonesia's National Collective Management Institute (LMKN) has partnered with USEA Global to revive 'sleeping repertoire' songs and generate economic value through digital platforms. LMKN's Marcell Siahaan stated the initiative aims to ensure fair, usage-based royalty distribution for creators and their heirs. The collaboration is intended to provide accurate usage data and build a transparent foundation for the country's digital royalty system.

NasDem Youth Leader: Young People Are Agents of Restoration, Not Political Objects

The chairman of Garda Pemuda NasDem, Prananda Surya Paloh, has called for young Indonesians to be seen as agents of change and restoration rather than political objects exploited during elections. Speaking at the organisation's second congress, he stressed the need to carefully manage the demographic bonus to avoid it becoming a demographic disaster. Deputy chairman Saan Mustopa added that the youth wing must act as a bridge between the party and young people to secure electoral success.

Free Nutritious Meal Budget to Be Cut Further, BGN Given One Month for Beneficiary Review

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has been given one month by President Prabowo Subianto to refine the governance of the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme, including a review of its beneficiaries. The current 62.7 million recipients are expected to decrease, which will automatically reduce the programme's budget from the previously allocated Rp 268 trillion. The President has also shifted the focus from expanding coverage to improving the quality of the programme's implementation.

Woman in Denpasar Reported to Police for Giving Birth at Hospital Not Chosen by Husband

A woman in Denpasar has been reported to the police by her husband for giving birth at a hospital that was not of his choosing. The husband filed a complaint under an article concerning the concealment of a person's origins after the wife underwent an emergency caesarean section at a different facility. Police have confirmed the investigation is ongoing, while the woman's legal team is seeking to have the case dropped.

State Secretary confirms 81st Indonesian Independence Day celebration to be centred in Jakarta

State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi has confirmed that the main commemoration of Indonesia's 81st Independence Day will be held in Jakarta, with the government still finalising the concept. The preparations include designing a public-inclusive celebration and evaluating the involvement of micro, small, and medium enterprises to ensure broader participation. The government is also finalising the official logo, which involved public input in its selection process.

Ministry begins weather modification to curb South Sumatra fires

The Indonesian government has launched a weather modification operation in South Sumatra to induce rainfall and suppress ongoing forest and land fires. The operation, funded by the Forestry Ministry, involves cloud seeding with support from the Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) and the Air Force. Officials hope the artificial rain will help extinguish blazes, replenish water sources for firefighting teams, and moisten dry peatlands in priority areas.

Banyumas Trials Plastic Waste-for-Groceries Scheme to Curb Serayu River Pollution

The Banyumas Regency government has launched a pilot programme allowing residents to exchange sorted plastic waste for groceries and household necessities. The initiative, supported by the SOLUSI Consortium and Bappenas, aims to reduce plastic pollution in the Serayu River basin. It is based on a 2025 study that identified limited waste services and high single-use plastic consumption as key challenges in rural areas along the river.

Deputy Minister Urges East Java to Collaborate for Milk Self-Sufficiency

Deputy Coordinating Minister for Food Hanif Faisol Nurofiq has called for collective action in East Java to boost national milk self-sufficiency, noting the province contributes over 57% of domestic fresh milk production. He stressed the need for upstream strengthening and downstream industry involvement, as Indonesia currently imports 80% of its milk needs. The government aims to maximise domestic production to close the significant supply gap.

Body of Suspected KM Nurul Salsa Victim Found Floating in Selayar Waters

A joint search and rescue (SAR) team has recovered the body of a woman suspected to be a victim of the KM Nurul Salsa sinking, found floating with a life jacket near Mataalang Island in the Selayar Islands, South Sulawesi. The body was evacuated by the KN Pacitan SAR vessel, while the KN Kamajaya is transporting two other recovered bodies to Makassar for identification. The discovery follows a report from local fishermen who spotted a body floating near Pamulikang Island.

Udayana University Partners with Timor Leste to Preserve Memory for Reconciliation

Udayana University's Political Science programme and the Timor Leste Consulate General in Bali held a dialogue on preserving collective memory to foster genuine reconciliation. Participants stressed that true reconciliation requires honest acknowledgment of past truths, not just narratives of friendship, and called for political commitment to implement recommendations from bilateral truth commissions.

Frequency Auction Winners Urged to Accelerate Internet Equality

The Indonesian government has called on the winners of the 700 MHz and 2.6 GHz frequency auction to rapidly expand internet access, particularly to underserved areas. The licensees are obligated to provide 4G services to 538 villages and sub-districts currently lacking adequate signal, while also accelerating the national 5G rollout. The spectrum management is projected to generate up to Rp30 trillion in non-tax state revenue over a decade.

Ministry of Transportation Harmonises Freight Forwarding and Multimodal Transport to Strengthen National Logistics

Indonesia's Ministry of Transportation is pushing for the harmonisation of policies and oversight between freight forwarding services (JPT) and multimodal transport operators (BUAM). The initiative aims to create a more integrated, efficient, and legally certain national logistics governance system. The move follows a regulatory update that formally separates the business classifications of the two sectors.

US Missiles Insufficient for Full-Scale War Against Iran

The United States has acknowledged it lacks sufficient ammunition for a full-scale conflict with Iran, even as it continues airstrikes against Iranian military targets. A US official revealed that dwindling stocks of air defence and long-range munitions would limit operations, while Iran's president declared the country is engaged in a 'full-scale war' with Washington. Both sides have indicated that diplomatic channels remain open behind the scenes.

Israel Builds Giant Sand Wall in Gaza, Raising Fears of a New Border

The Israeli military has confirmed the construction of a massive sand barrier stretching over 23 kilometres inside the Gaza Strip, designed to prevent infiltration following the October 7 attacks. The wall separates areas under Israeli control from those still held by Hamas, sparking international concern over a potential long-term land grab. With disarmament talks stalled and the Board of Peace yet to comment, the barrier's impact on the future political and humanitarian map of Gaza remains uncertain.

North Sumatra to host Sumatra-wide BI Investment Day

North Sumatra will host the Bank Indonesia Investment Day for the entire Sumatra region in Medan on Thursday, aiming to strengthen inter-regional investment collaboration. The forum will bring together governors, investors, and stakeholders to discuss integrated economic management and promote more evenly distributed investment across the island.

UIN Jakarta Affirms PTUN Ruling Does Not Halt Integration of Educational Units

UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta has stated that a recent State Administrative Court (PTUN) ruling does not affect its policy to integrate educational units under its public service agency (BLU). The university's legal counsel clarified that the ruling, which is not yet legally binding, pertains only to a specific dispute and does not invalidate the broader integration policy, which is supported by multiple legal foundations including a BPK recommendation and a separate court decision.

Minister: Presidential Regulation on Ride-Hailing Drivers as MSMEs Being Finalised

The Indonesian government is finalising a Presidential Regulation that will classify online motorcycle taxi (ojol) drivers as micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). The regulation aims to provide a legal framework for the ride-hailing ecosystem, including a revenue split of 92 per cent for drivers and 8 per cent for app companies. The policy is being coordinated across multiple ministries to ensure a fair and healthy digital transport ecosystem.

KPK Names West Lombok Regent Suspect in Rp41.7 Billion Procurement Corruption Case

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has named West Lombok Regent Lalu Ahmad Zaini a suspect in a corruption case involving conflicts of interest in the procurement of goods and services. The case centres on 32 project packages worth a total of Rp41.7 billion, including the rehabilitation of Giri Menang City Park. Investigators allege that Zaini received Rp10.8 billion in illicit funds from a company director who was favoured in the tender process.

SaloneSatellite Permanent Collection Makes Indonesian Debut at Indonesia Design District PIK2 This September

The SaloneSatellite Permanent Collection will be exhibited for the first time in Indonesia at the Indonesia Design District (IDD) PIK2 from 18 September to 18 October 2026. The exhibition, a highlight of Indonesia Design Week 2026, features 55 curated works from the prestigious Salone del Mobile.Milano archive. This event marks a strategic step in positioning Indonesia within the global design landscape and fostering international creative exchange.

Finance Minister Purbaya Targets PFII to Commence Operations This Year

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has set a target for the Indonesia International Financial Centre (PFII) to begin operations within the year, following the House of Representatives' approval of the PFII Bill. The government aims to finalise implementing regulations within six months to capitalise on global economic uncertainty, which is driving investor demand for international financial hubs. The swift legislative process is seen as a strategic move to attract global capital flows amid competition from other nations establishing similar centres.

KPK to Charge West Lombok Regent with Money Laundering After 29 Undeclared Land Assets Found

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) plans to charge West Lombok Regent Lalu Ahmad Zaini with money laundering after discovering 29 land assets not listed in his official wealth report. Investigators found the assets while probing a separate corruption case involving project manipulation and bribery. The KPK is gathering further evidence, including testimony from notaries and sellers, to support the additional charge.

DPRD NTT Urges Provincial Government to Lobby Jakarta as Pioneer Ship Subsidies Halt

The East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) is urging the provincial government to lobby the central government after subsidies for six pioneer ships were suspended, halting operations since early July. The suspension has severely impacted island communities, disrupting the distribution of goods and access to essential services. The provincial government confirmed the central government's budget process is still ongoing, leaving the resumption of services uncertain.

New Cause of Antarctic Glacier Acceleration Revealed

A new study led by Hokkaido University has uncovered a mechanism accelerating Antarctic glacier movement, identifying surface meltwater as a key factor. The research shows that meltwater seeps through cracks, lubricating the glacier base and increasing flow speed by 10 to 20 percent. Scientists warn this process, previously observed mainly in Greenland, poses a serious threat to global sea-level rise regardless of Paris Agreement targets.

KPK Begins Investigating Money Laundering Allegations in Ex-Deputy Minister Silmy Karim Case

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has expanded its investigation into former Deputy Minister Silmy Karim, now probing alleged money laundering linked to a residency permit extortion scheme. The anti-graft body has begun seizing assets from eight suspects in the case, which reportedly generated up to Rp 145.5 billion. The money laundering investigation may proceed separately from the main corruption case due to detention time limits.

Health Minister: E-cigarettes as dangerous as conventional cigarettes

Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin has warned that e-cigarettes are not a safer alternative to conventional cigarettes, citing increased risks of non-communicable diseases and potential narcotics abuse among youth. Speaking at a national anti-narcotics seminar, he stressed the need to control smoking to combat stroke, heart disease, and cancer. The National Narcotics Agency chief also highlighted the emerging threat of modified e-cigarette liquids containing psychoactive substances.

Surveys Reveal Iran War as One of the Most Unpopular US Conflicts in Modern History

Recent polls indicate the US-led war against Iran has become one of the most rapidly unpopular military actions in modern American history, with 68% of citizens deeming it not worth fighting within months. The speed of public disapproval has outpaced that of the Iraq and Vietnam wars, with 61% calling the conflict a mistake. Despite the strong opposition, the war has not become a top priority for most Americans, partly due to the lack of a large-scale ground troop deployment.

After 21-Year Wait, State Finally Grants Land Certificates to 441 Transmigrant Families in Simeulue, Aceh

The Indonesian government has issued freehold land certificates (SHM) to 441 transmigrant families in Simeulue, Aceh, ending a 21-year wait. The certificates, delivered under the Trans Tuntas programme, provide legal certainty and are expected to improve access to financing and economic value for the recipients. Minister of Transmigration M. Iftitah Sulaiman Suryanagara emphasised that the initiative represents the state's commitment to ensuring the welfare and rights of transmigrant communities.

Pandeglang NU Figure Proposes Kiai Marsudi as Candidate for PBNU Chairman

A prominent Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) figure from Pandeglang, Dr Enci Zarkasih, has proposed Dr KH Marsudi Syuhud as a candidate for the chairmanship of the Executive Board of Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU). Zarkasih emphasised the need for a leader who can safeguard the organisation's moral authority and independence amidst increasing political and economic pressures. He stressed that NU must return to its foundational principles and avoid becoming a tool for practical political interests.

AI Triggers 'Double Subsidy' Phenomenon and Traffic Decline in Indonesian Media

Research reveals that the Indonesian media industry is facing a 'double subsidy' phenomenon and declining website traffic due to the rise of generative AI. The findings, presented by the Indonesian Cyber Media Association (AMSI), highlight how AI is reshaping business models and information access. Stakeholders are urged to use the research as a basis for collective action to address the sustainability challenges facing news companies.

As Long Dry Season Looms, When Is the Right Time for Muslims to Perform Istisqa Prayer?

With Indonesia's meteorological agency warning of an extended and drier-than-normal dry season due to El Niño, several regions in Java are already facing water shortages. Islamic scholars advise that the Sunnah prayer for rain, known as Salat al-Istisqa, should be performed when a community begins to experience water scarcity, not only to seek relief but also to ward off broader societal harm. The ritual, which includes a two-rakat prayer and a sermon of repentance, is recommended alongside practical water conservation efforts.

BGN: Budget Cuts for Free Nutritious Meals Programme to Sharpen Beneficiary Targeting

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has confirmed that the reduced 2026 budget for the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme will be used to refine beneficiary targeting, prioritising service quality over quantity. The provisional budget has been cut from Rp268 trillion to Rp229 trillion, with the number of beneficiaries currently projected at 62.7 million, down from the President's initial target of 82.9 million. The agency is working with the Ministry of Finance and Bappenas to finalise the figures and improve data governance to prevent duplication.

Research Proposals from Indonesian Universities More Than Double, Says Ministry

The number of research proposals submitted by Indonesian universities has surged to 127,000 in 2026, more than double the previous year's figure, according to a senior official. The government has responded by increasing the research budget by an additional Rp4 trillion to strengthen the ecosystem and improve funding competitiveness. The ministry is also pushing for greater collaboration between major universities and regional campuses to ensure research aligns with local development needs.

Researcher deems Asset Forfeiture Bill discussion timely after new Criminal Procedure Code

A political researcher argues that deliberating the Asset Forfeiture Bill is ideal now that Indonesia's new Criminal Procedure Code (KUHAP) has taken effect, ensuring legal harmony. The delay from late 2025 is seen as a prudent measure to align norms and strengthen legal certainty. The House of Representatives plans to continue discussions during the recess to create an effective anti-corruption instrument.

Firefighting Continues on 81-Hectare Peatland Fire in Bengkalis

Firefighting operations are ongoing in Pematang Pudu, Bengkalis, Riau, where an 81-hectare peatland fire continues to smoulder underground. Despite surface flames being controlled, four Manggala Agni teams remain on site to extinguish persistent hotspots in the peat layers, with efforts hampered by a lack of rain and dwindling water sources. Authorities have stated that operations will continue until the area is completely safe to prevent reignition.

Downstream Investment Shifts, Bauxite Overtakes Nickel in Q2 2026

Indonesia's downstream investment landscape is shifting, with bauxite surpassing nickel in the second quarter of 2026. The Minister of Investment and Downstreaming/BKPM highlighted this trend as the country continues to push for value-added processing of its mineral resources. This development signals a diversification in the nation's downstream strategy beyond its dominant nickel sector.

Israel Prepares Operational Plans Amid US-Iran Escalation

Israel is drafting operational plans for potential involvement in the escalating conflict between the United States and Iran, though it currently prefers to remain on the sidelines. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has held security consultations, and military officials confirm readiness to strike high-value targets, including nuclear sites, if called upon. Israeli leaders believe the ongoing limited confrontation is economically weakening Iran, aligning with their strategic interests.

Police Investigate Alleged Fraud in SPPG Kitchen Establishment in Tulungagung

Tulungagung Police are investigating a complaint alleging fraud related to the establishment of a Nutrition Fulfilment Service Unit (SPPG) kitchen. The complainant claims to have handed over Rp50 million and spent around Rp900 million on construction after being promised a location, but the project was never realised. The investigation is ongoing, with the acting regent named in the complaint.

KPK Highlights Customs and Immigration Cases Among 17 Sting Operations This Year

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has conducted 17 sting operations up to July 2026, with cases involving the Directorate General of Customs and Excise and former Immigration Director General Silmy Karim standing out. The customs case yielded significant asset recovery, with Rp45 billion seized during the initial operation alone. The immigration case was deemed notable due to its impact on international service standards.

UMJ Graduate School Discusses Quality Tahfidz Qur'an Programme, Awards 108th Doctorate in Islamic Education Management

The Graduate School of Universitas Muhammadiyah Jakarta (SPs UMJ) has awarded its 108th doctorate in Islamic Education Management to Lamya Hayatina. Her dissertation proposes a novel management model for Tahfidz Al-Qur'an programmes that integrates modern educational management with the traditional sanad transmission system. The research, conducted at two Islamic boarding schools, aims to ensure the quality and legitimacy of Qur'an memorisation through a structured framework.

Sorong Health Office Presents Audit Findings on Child Patient Case at Maleo Hospital

The Sorong City Health Office has released the results of an independent investigative audit into the handling of a child patient at RS Maleo. The audit identified several areas requiring improvement, including communication, compliance with standard operating procedures, and medical record documentation. As a follow-up, the city government has imposed a temporary suspension on new patient admissions at the hospital for two weeks to allow for corrective action.

Kediri Regency Government Prepares Hotel Site for Hajj Pilgrims

The Kediri Regency administration in East Java is preparing a 55,000-square-metre plot of land for the construction of a dedicated Hajj hotel, intended to be the first of its kind in Indonesia. The facility will support the planned use of Dhoho Airport as an embarkation point for pilgrims from the southern part of East Java. Regent Hanindhito Himawan Pramana stressed the need for the hotel to have sustainable utility beyond the Hajj season to avoid becoming an idle asset.

East Java Leads Nation in KUR Disbursement, Reaching Rp27 Trillion

East Java has recorded the highest disbursement of People's Business Credit (KUR) in Indonesia, reaching Rp27 trillion in the first half of 2026. The national KUR disbursement target for the year is Rp290 trillion, with officials optimistic it will be met. Jember Regency was specifically praised for channelling 69 per cent of its KUR to the production sector, exceeding the national target.

GEM and BNSI Facilitate Village-Owned Enterprises, Creating Over 500 Jobs in Morowali

GEM Co., Ltd. and PT Bahodopi Nickel Smelting Indonesia (BNSI) are fostering sustainable community empowerment by facilitating the establishment of village-owned enterprises around the International Green Industrial Park in Morowali, Central Sulawesi. The initiative has generated more than 500 local jobs and over Rp20 billion in additional community income. The companies aim to create a model where local residents become shareholders and benefit directly from industrial growth.

Iran Sends Missiles to Kuwait and Bahrain, Sirens Wail

Iran has launched missile and drone attacks targeting civilian areas in Bahrain and Kuwait, according to defence officials from both nations. Air defence systems in Bahrain and Kuwait intercepted the projectiles, while sirens sounded across the affected regions. The attacks mark a significant escalation in regional tensions, with Bahrain describing them as part of a systematic hostile approach by Tehran.

Kuwait Faces Energy Crisis as Residents Urged to Conserve Power Amid Iranian Attacks

Kuwait is grappling with a severe energy crisis as repeated Iranian strikes on power plants force the government to call for public electricity conservation. The attacks, which have also targeted water desalination infrastructure, have created a state of psychological distress and uncertainty among the population, reviving memories of past conflicts. Authorities have praised the public's response in reducing consumption to maintain grid stability.

US Panics, Prepares New Tactics to Cripple China

The United States government is reportedly developing new strategies to curb the dominance of Chinese artificial intelligence. Washington is considering adding Chinese AI labs to an export restriction list and issuing warnings about security threats. The move aims to limit the use of Chinese open-source AI models by American companies due to security and governance concerns.

PGN educates Jakarta apartment residents on natural gas safety

PT Perusahaan Gas Negara (PGN) has launched a safety education programme for residents of public housing in Jakarta, focusing on the secure use of natural gas. The initiative, conducted with the DKI Jakarta provincial housing authority, aims to build customer awareness of safe operational procedures and emergency responses. The programme underscores PGN's commitment to embedding a safety culture as a core value of its energy services.

BGN Confirms Electric Motorcycles from Dadan Era Procurement Will Be Utilised

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has confirmed that electric motorcycles procured during the tenure of former head Dadan Hindayana will be put to use, despite initial plans for them being scrapped. Several ministries, including Social Affairs and Agriculture, have expressed interest in utilising the vehicles, which were originally intended for field supervisors. The agency also stressed that while the procurement is part of a corruption investigation, the motorcycles themselves were purchased with state funds and are not proceeds of crime.

Young Cadres Seen as Party's Main Engine for 2029 Election

The Prosperous Justice Party (PKS) has urged its young members to prepare four key attributes—militancy, competence, relevance, and contribution—to drive the party's success in the 2029 general election. Secretary General Muhammad Kholid emphasised that young cadres must become the vanguard for winning the youth vote, which will dominate the future electorate. The call was made during the opening of the PKS Youth Summit in Jakarta.

When Luxury Enters the Electrification Era

The DENZA D9 electric MPV is redefining luxury in Indonesia's premium automotive segment, with sales surpassing 10,000 units since its 2025 launch. The model's success signals a shift in consumer preferences towards driving experience, advanced technology, and cabin comfort over traditional brand heritage. Its features, including a near-silent cabin and fast-charging capabilities, are setting new standards in the high-end MPV market.

BPBD Temanggung Assesses Five Hamlets Requesting Clean Water Amid Drought

The Temanggung Disaster Mitigation Agency (BPBD) is conducting field assessments in five hamlets in Gentan Village, Kranggan District, that have requested clean water distribution due to drought. The assessments will determine whether the water sources have merely decreased in output or have completely dried up, which will dictate if the areas are added to the regular water distribution schedule. BPBD will coordinate with village officials to schedule deliveries at times that ensure effective and targeted distribution to the affected residents.

Purbaya: State Budget Only a Reserve Fund for PFII

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa clarified that the State Budget (APBN) will only serve as a contingency fund for the Pusat Finansial Internasional Indonesia (PFII), not its primary financing source. Initial development funding will come from investors, including Danantara, with the APBN available to cover temporary operational shortfalls if needed. The government views this as a precautionary measure to ensure institutional continuity.

300 Apply to Renounce Indonesian Citizenship Despite Fee Hike to Rp5 Million

Minister of Law Supratman Andi Agtas revealed that 300 people have applied to renounce their Indonesian citizenship, even after the administrative fee was raised from Rp1 million to Rp5 million. The government has tightened the vetting process, involving up to 15 ministries to ensure applicants have no outstanding tax or criminal issues. In contrast, the number of people applying for Indonesian citizenship has reached a record high of 1,500, with the naturalisation fee also increasing from Rp50 million to Rp75 million.

MPR Acting Secretary-General Stresses Simplicity and Honesty to Prevent Corruption

The Acting Secretary-General of Indonesia's People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) has emphasised that cultivating simplicity and honesty in daily life is crucial to preventing corruption. Speaking at an anti-corruption workshop for MPR staff, she highlighted Indonesia's low Corruption Perception Index score and urged employees to avoid even minor dishonest acts. The initiative aims to strengthen internal controls and embed integrity within the institution's working culture.

Minister: Land Certification for Low-Income Earners Protects Assets

Indonesia's Minister of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning, Nusron Wahid, has stated that accelerating land certification for low-income communities is a form of asset protection. A new joint decree between three ministries aims to provide legal certainty for homeowners. The programme will prioritise 1.1 million beneficiaries from a government housing assistance scheme.

Dukcapil Clarifies Rules After Baby Named 'MBG Subianto' Goes Viral

The Directorate General of Population and Civil Registration (Dukcapil) has clarified that names on official documents cannot contain abbreviations, following the viral case of a baby in Wonosobo named Muhammad MBG Subianto. Director General Teguh Setyabudi stated that if 'MBG' is an acronym for the government's Free Nutritious Meals programme, it violates the Home Affairs Ministerial Regulation on name recording. The local civil registry office has offered a solution to the parents regarding the child's name.

Indonesia's First Aircraft Carrier: DPR Approves Italian Grant of ITS Giuseppe Garibaldi

The Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) has approved the acceptance of a grant for the ITS Giuseppe Garibaldi aircraft carrier from the Italian government. The decision was made during a plenary session following a meeting between Commission I and the Ministry of Defence, with all eight factions agreeing to the transfer. Some lawmakers raised concerns about the vessel's 40-year age and its remaining operational lifespan of approximately 10 years.

Banda Aceh City Government Revitalises SMEP Market with Modern Multi-Ethnic Design

The Banda Aceh city government is developing a new economic hub by revitalising the SMEP market, a trading site since the 2004 tsunami. The project features Chinese-influenced architecture and a multi-ethnic concept to boost the local economy and reinforce the city's identity as a collaborative hub.

Expert Urges Reversal of Burden of Proof in Case of Former Jampidsus Febrie

A criminal law expert has called on investigators to apply a reverse burden of proof in the case against former junior attorney general for special crimes, Febrie Adriansyah. The call follows the seizure of assets worth over Rp540 billion, suspected to be linked to money laundering. The expert argues that the suspect should be required to prove the legitimate origin of his unexplained wealth.

KAI CEO Shares Transformative Leadership Strategy at BSI Forum

PT Kereta Api Indonesia's CEO Bobby Rasyidin outlined the company's customer-centric strategy at a Bank Syariah Indonesia leadership forum, emphasising how Voice of Customer data and CRM systems guide operational decisions. The approach has driven significant performance improvements, with KAI Group recording 503.5 million customers in 2025 and an on-time departure rate of 99.53%. The state-owned railway operator plans to further strengthen its technology capacity to ensure services remain adaptive and relevant.

Indonesia eyes US$635 million trade boost from ASEAN food deal

Indonesia's ratification of the ASEAN Food Safety Regulatory Framework Agreement is projected to boost the nation's food trade balance by US$634.85 million and generate US$252.17 million in welfare gains. Trade Minister Budi Santoso told the House of Representatives that harmonising food safety standards will lower compliance costs, attract investment, and enhance the competitiveness of Indonesian agricultural and processed food exports. The government is preparing legal alignment, automated certificate of origin systems, and digital traceability measures to support implementation.

Jakarta Government Prioritises Student Safety at SDN Kebayoran Lama Selatan 09

The Jakarta provincial government has prioritised student safety and educational continuity following the partial roof collapse at SDN Kebayoran Lama Selatan 09 in November 2024. The building has been declared structurally unsound and vacated, with 270 students relocated to a neighbouring school operating a double-shift system. Reconstruction of the school has been designated a budget priority for the 2027 fiscal year.

MPR Deputy Speaker Urges Data-Based SPMB Reform to Address Crisis of Empty State Primary Schools

The sharp decline in state primary school enrolment across Indonesia has prompted a senior legislator to call for an urgent overhaul of the national student admission system. MPR Deputy Speaker Lestari Moerdijat argues that a data-driven approach is essential to align school capacity with demographic realities and shifting parental preferences. The crisis is highlighted by thousands of empty seats in state schools, even as the number of school buildings has increased.

Megawati's Message to Indonesian Youth on 30th Anniversary of Kudatuli

Former Indonesian President Megawati Soekarnoputri delivered a poignant message to the nation's youth during the 30th commemoration of the 27 July 1996 attack, known as Kudatuli. She urged young Indonesians to uphold four core values—conviction, steadfastness, courage, and patience—as a unified path to truth. Writing as the fifth president rather than party chair, she emphasised that the younger generation must carry the nation's history forward with critical thought and national pride.

Over 10,000 Hectares of Rice Fields in Indramayu Threatened by Crop Failure

More than 10,600 hectares of rice paddies across six sub-districts in Indramayu Regency, West Java, are at risk of harvest failure due to severe drought. Local farmer groups have urgently requested irrigation authorities to release water from the Jatiluhur Reservoir to save the crops. The potential widespread failure threatens to significantly reduce regional rice production.

AMDAL Adaptif Pengelolaan Bandar Udara Indonesia

Artikel ini mengkaji perlunya evolusi Analisis Mengenai Dampak Lingkungan (AMDAL) dari sekadar persyaratan administratif menjadi instrumen tata kelola lingkungan yang adaptif dalam pembangunan bandar udara di Indonesia. Reformasi kebijakan, termasuk skema Kerja Sama Pemanfaatan Barang Milik Negara (KSP BMN) dan digitalisasi, dinilai belum sepenuhnya mengintegrasikan pengelolaan risiko lingkungan pasca-persetujuan. Penulis berargumen bahwa model AMDAL berbasis risiko dan terintegrasi diperlukan untuk menjamin kepastian investasi, keberlanjutan, dan ketahanan lingkungan di sektor kebandarudaraan.

Traffic in Cawang, East Jakarta, Returns to Normal After Protest Near UKI Causes Gridlock

Traffic congestion in the Cawang area of East Jakarta, caused by a demonstration near the Indonesian Christian University (UKI), has eased. The protest on Jalan Mayjen Sutoyo led to significant delays on Tuesday afternoon before participants dispersed. Police confirmed the situation returned to normal by early evening.

Rehab-Recon Funds Distributed, Task Force Head Stresses Transparency

The head of the Sumatra Post-Disaster Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Task Force has urged ministries to openly inform regional leaders about their programme plans after receiving the 2026 budget. A total of Rp100.1 trillion has been allocated for the three-year master plan, with Rp38.9 trillion approved for the first year. Seven ministries and agencies have already had their budgets approved and disbursed to begin reconstruction efforts.

Peruri Expands Market Access for Assisted SMEs Through Road to INACRAFT 2026

State-owned enterprise Peruri is facilitating market access for its fostered small and medium enterprises (SMEs) by participating in the Road to INACRAFT 2026 exhibition in Yogyakarta. The initiative aims to enhance product exposure, build business networks, and promote sustainable practices among the SMEs. Seven local businesses from Yogyakarta will showcase products ranging from batik fashion to processed foods under the theme 'Hayuning Bawono'.

BKPM: Bauxite Downstreaming Investment Soars 193% in Q2 2026

Indonesia's bauxite downstreaming investment surged 193% to Rp40.1 trillion in the second quarter of 2026, overtaking nickel as the top mineral processing sector. The Investment Minister attributed the growth to new smelter construction by domestic and foreign investors, signalling a diversification of the nation's downstreaming strategy. Overall downstreaming investment reached Rp152.7 trillion, contributing nearly 30% of total national investment realisation.

West Java Deputy Governor Applauds Collaboration for 2026 Nusantara People's Festival

West Java Deputy Governor Erwan Setiawan has praised the collaboration between the regional military command, the Chamber of Commerce, and the state broadcaster for organising a festival involving dozens of small businesses. The event aimed to strengthen local economic growth and community togetherness. Officials expressed hope that such synergy would continue to support micro, small, and medium enterprises beyond ceremonial occasions.

Time to Manage Waste at the Source

A recent fire at the Jatiwaringin landfill in Tangerang, which burned for 10 days and caused respiratory infections in 154 residents, highlights Indonesia's ongoing waste management crisis. The root cause is not merely technological but systemic, as waste management is classified as a non-basic service, exempting it from mandatory minimum service standards and leaving it severely underfunded in regional budgets. This lack of priority forces most landfills to operate as open dumping sites, creating environmental and public health hazards.

Maluku BKSDA Foils Smuggling of Five Coconut Crabs in Ambon

The Maluku Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA) has thwarted an attempt to smuggle five protected coconut crabs through the Yos Sudarso Port in Ambon. The crabs were discovered during routine X-ray screening of passenger luggage. Authorities have reiterated that capturing, keeping, trading, or transporting protected wildlife without a permit is a criminal offence subject to imprisonment and fines.

Home Minister Tito Urges Transparency in Post-Disaster Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Programme

Home Minister Tito Karnavian has called on ministries and agencies to openly disclose their plans for the post-disaster rehabilitation and reconstruction programme in Sumatra. The move aims to ensure regional heads are fully aware of central government interventions and that the Rp100.1 trillion programme aligns with presidential directives. The three-year plan, running from 2026 to 2028, has begun with seven ministries receiving approved budgets.

South Korea Gets Richer Amid Global Crisis

South Korea's exports surged 52.3% year-on-year in the first 20 days of July 2026, driven largely by a near-tripling of semiconductor shipments amid the global AI boom. The country posted a trade surplus of US$12.2 billion, with chip exports alone reaching US$22.1 billion, underscoring its dominant position in the memory market.

Prosecutors Urge Heavier Sentence for Former Jampidsus Febrie Adriansyah

Legal experts are calling for a heavier sentence for former Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes, Febrie Adriansyah, following the discovery of assets worth over Rp 540 billion. The assets, including cash, gold bars, and foreign currency, are suspected to be linked to money laundering in major corruption cases. A public review highlighted the use of safe houses and money changers to obscure the illicit origins of the wealth.

BP BUMN Prioritises Cleanliness in Toll Road Rest Area Transformation

BP BUMN and Danantara are prioritising cleanliness and tidiness in the transformation of toll road rest areas to enhance public service quality. A recent inspection of the Travoy KM 88 rest area on the Cipularang Toll Road, which serves up to 10,000 vehicles daily, aims to make it a model for modernised facilities. The agency also warned that rest areas failing to meet the new standards could face access restrictions.

NasDem Targets Top Three Finish in 2029 General Election

The NasDem Party has set its sights on securing a top-three position in the 2029 Indonesian general election, citing a consistent upward trend in its electoral performance. Deputy Chairman Saan Mustopa emphasised the crucial role of the party's youth wing, Garda Pemuda, in cultivating credible and innovative leadership to achieve this goal. The announcement was made during the youth wing's second congress in Jakarta.

TNI Habema Launches Measured Operation, Armed Group Threat in Intan Jaya Successfully Prevented

The Indonesian National Armed Forces' Habema Operations Command has successfully seized weapons and ammunition from a suspected armed group hideout in Intan Jaya, Central Papua. The intelligence-led operation targeted a transit location of the TPNPB-OPM group led by Daniel Aibon Kogoya, aiming to pre-empt potential security threats. Military officials emphasised the operation was conducted professionally and selectively, prioritising civilian safety and humanitarian values.

Two Petrol Station Employees Tried for Filling Truck with Subsidised Diesel Without QR Code

Two petrol station employees in Denpasar, Bali, are standing trial for allegedly misusing subsidised diesel distribution by serving a truck that lacked an official Pertamina QR code. Prosecutors argue the pair used a restricted testing barcode to dispense 51.47 litres of subsidised fuel, violating the Oil and Gas Law. The defence contends the case should have been handled administratively rather than through criminal prosecution, citing procedural errors in the indictment.

Indonesia Secures AAA China Rating Ahead of Debut $1 Billion Panda Bond Sale

Indonesia has obtained a top-tier AAA credit rating from Lianhe Credit Rating, paving the way for its first sovereign Panda Bond issuance in China's onshore market. The government plans to raise $1 billion in the inaugural offering, with Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa noting the rating will bolster investor confidence. Major Chinese financial institutions, including Bank of China as lead underwriter, have been appointed to manage the sale, reflecting strong market interest in Indonesian debt.

Commission XI: PFII Will Not Disrupt Domestic Financial Services

House Commission XI has assured that the newly approved International Financial Centre (PFII) will not disrupt domestic financial services, as institutions within the zone are barred from raising retail funds. The centre is designed to attract global capital and foreign exchange liquidity to finance large-scale projects, with the government expecting it to lower the cost of funds by up to 200 basis points. The DPR has officially passed the PFII bill into law, which includes a 0% income tax rate for entities operating within the zone and establishes a dedicated regulatory and judicial framework.

BGN Confirms Budget Cuts for Free Nutritious Meals Programme; Prabowo Drops Numerical Target

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has confirmed a reduction in the 2026 budget for the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme from Rp 268 trillion to approximately Rp 229 trillion, pending further governance reforms. President Prabowo Subianto has instructed the agency to focus on improving data accuracy and programme quality rather than pursuing a specific number of beneficiaries. The BGN is currently reviewing its management structure after discovering inefficiencies, such as schools being served by multiple nutrition service units.

China-Laos Railway Sees Peak Summer Passenger Traffic

The China-Laos Railway is experiencing a surge in passenger traffic during the summer peak, with over 11,000 daily cross-border travellers passing through the Mohan border post. Enhanced customs facilities, including intelligent inspection platforms and foreign currency ATMs, have significantly reduced processing times. The railway's popularity is highlighted by first-time travellers praising the convenient services and unique experience.

Puan Questions Overseas Training for 25 Regional Heads Amid Budget Efficiency Drive

House Speaker Puan Maharani has challenged the necessity of sending 25 regional heads to Singapore for a capacity-building programme while the government is enforcing strict budget efficiency measures. She confirmed that the House of Representatives will summon the National Resilience Institute to provide a detailed explanation regarding the urgency of the overseas trip. The programme, which includes a visit to the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, is intended to enhance public service delivery in areas such as education, health, and waste management.

Pertamina Patra Niaga Builds Disaster Awareness Culture in Schools Through PANAH KESATRIA Programme

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga is strengthening its community involvement by implementing the PANAH KESATRIA programme at a state junior high school in Indramayu, West Java. The initiative aims to build a culture of disaster preparedness among students and teachers through education, emergency response training, and environmental conservation. The programme, now in its second year, directly benefits 62 students and 19 teachers, while indirectly supporting the safety and awareness of 977 pupils.

Pertamina Patra Niaga JBB Utilises Solar Power to Boost Economy and Health of Balongan Residents

Pertamina Patra Niaga's GARBATERA programme in Indramayu has marked its first anniversary by delivering significant improvements in public health, child nutrition, and local economic empowerment. The initiative integrates solar energy, supports local food supply chains, and has notably increased the income of a community food group supplying the national free nutritious meal programme. The programme's holistic approach has also strengthened local health services and early childhood education.

Meutya Hafid: 900 MHz Frequency Auction to Be Held at End of 2026

Indonesia's Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs (Kemkomdigi) plans to auction the 900 MHz frequency band by the end of 2026, following its return by the newly merged entity XLSmart. The government is also conducting a study on the release and utilisation of the 3.5 GHz band, which is currently shared with satellite services. The move aims to optimise spectrum use for public benefit and national connectivity needs.

Nicaragua's Ortega Moves to Abolish Elections, Cementing Family Dictatorship

Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega has announced plans to eliminate elections, a move analysts say completes the country's transition into a full family dictatorship. The 80-year-old leader, who has systematically dismantled democratic institutions since 2007, justified the decision as necessary to prevent opposition 'coup plotters' from seizing power. The announcement follows constitutional reforms extending his term and consolidating power alongside his wife, Vice President Rosario Murillo.

More People Taking on Side Hustles, Not Just to Get Rich

A growing number of people are pursuing side hustles not merely for wealth, but as a strategy for financial stability amidst a dynamic economy. The shift reflects a broader awareness of the need to manage living costs, education, and retirement planning more securely. Diversifying income is increasingly seen as essential for building household resilience and reducing reliance on a single salary.

West Java's Anti-LGBT Draft Bylaw and the Quest for Social Resilience

The West Java provincial government is drafting a bylaw to prohibit LGBT practices, aiming to provide a firm legal basis for maintaining social order. The initiative has sparked debate over whether a purely legal approach can effectively address complex social issues without complementary educational and social support systems. Observers argue that the regulation's success will depend on a holistic strategy that includes character education, family strengthening, and digital literacy to build lasting social resilience.

KPK: West Lombok Regent Received Billions in Bribes, an Alphard, and Hermes Shoes

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has revealed that West Lombok Regent Lalu Ahmad Zaini allegedly accepted bribes totalling around Rp1.6 billion. The illicit gratuities, linked to a water management project, included a Toyota Alphard, cash, an iPhone, and luxury goods. Investigators are continuing to trace the flow of funds and identify other potential suspects.

Megawati attends photo exhibition reflecting on 30 years since the Kudatuli incident

Former Indonesian President Megawati Soekarnoputri visited a historical photo exhibition in Jakarta marking the 30th anniversary of the Kudatuli incident. The exhibition chronicles the nation's political journey and the violent 1996 attack on the PDI headquarters. The event serves as a reflection on the bloody struggle for democracy that resulted in multiple deaths and disappearances.

Rehab-Recon Budget Disbursed, Tito Urges Ministries to Coordinate with Regional Governments

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian has instructed ministries and agencies that have received post-disaster rehabilitation and reconstruction funds for Sumatra to openly share their programme plans with regional governments. The government has entered the acceleration phase of the rehabilitation and reconstruction effort, with a master plan approved by the House of Representatives and a total budget of Rp 100.1 trillion allocated over three years. Seven ministries and agencies have already had their budgets approved and disbursed, and transparency is being emphasised to ensure alignment with presidential directives.

Analyst Highlights Officials' Communication Style Sparking Controversy

A political analyst has urged President Prabowo Subianto to evaluate his staff's public communication, citing a defensive and condescending tone that risks eroding public trust. The criticism follows a senior presidential staff member's derogatory remarks towards university students. The analyst warned that such counterproductive communication, funded by public money, could damage the administration's image.

The Indonesian Spice Paradox: Clove Plantations and Value Addition

Indonesia remains the world's largest producer and exporter of cloves, yet it captures only a fraction of the economic value by primarily exporting raw dried buds. The real profits lie in downstream processing into essential oils and derivatives for the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and food industries. To overcome this paradox, the focus must shift from mere production volume to quality cultivation, technological innovation, and meeting stringent international standards starting at the farm level.

Between Indonesian and Sundanese: How the Young Generation Communicates Today

A personal reflection explores the evolving linguistic landscape among Indonesian youth, where regional languages like Sundanese increasingly blend with the national language, Indonesian. The piece highlights the role of language as both a cultural identity and a bridge for cross-cultural adaptation, while warning of the threat of extinction facing hundreds of regional languages. It argues that preserving local languages alongside national and foreign tongues is a vital responsibility for the younger generation.

KKP Launches Ocean Institute of Indonesia to Transform Marine and Fisheries Education

The Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) has officially launched the Ocean Institute of Indonesia (OII), merging 11 vocational education units to create a world-class marine and fisheries education system. The initiative aims to produce highly competent human resources through a specialised, industry-oriented curriculum. The launch was attended by several cabinet ministers and marks a strategic step towards supporting Indonesia's blue economy.

President Prabowo Appoints Five New Senior Officials to National Nutrition Agency

President Prabowo Subianto has directly appointed five new high-ranking officials to the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) to strengthen the governance of the free nutritious meal programme. The appointments, formalised by presidential decree, include new deputies for systems and governance, supply and distribution, promotion and cooperation, and monitoring and oversight. The reshuffle aims to improve data accuracy for beneficiary targeting and enhance the overall management of the flagship social policy initiative.

Purbaya: PFII location not yet determined, will not be inside a Special Economic Zone

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa stated the location for the Indonesia International Financial Centre (PFII) has not been finalised, but confirmed it will not be situated within a Special Economic Zone to avoid overlapping statuses. The government is currently evaluating several proposals, including areas in Bali, with the final decision to be based on infrastructure readiness, cost-effectiveness, and attractiveness to foreign investors. The location will ultimately be proposed by the Finance Minister to the President and established through a Government Regulation.

Indonesia-EAEU FTA opens US$3 trillion market for local products

Indonesia's free trade agreement with the Eurasian Economic Union, signed in December 2025, will eliminate or reduce tariffs on 90.5 percent of tariff lines, granting access to a market of 183.7 million people. Key Indonesian exports such as palm oil, rubber, coffee, textiles, and footwear are set to benefit, while Indonesia will reciprocate by cutting tariffs on industrial inputs like wheat and pharmaceuticals. The Trade Ministry estimates the deal could boost Indonesian exports to the region to nearly US$2.9 billion and increase national welfare by approximately US$70 million.

Renovation of Collapsed SDN in Kebayoran Lama Scheduled for Next Year

The Jakarta Provincial Government is accelerating the renovation of SDN Kebayoran Lama Selatan 09, which collapsed in November 2024. Physical construction is procedurally slated for 2027, but officials are pushing for an earlier start, with the project currently in the 2025 Detailed Engineering Design phase. Students have been forced to attend classes in shifts at a neighbouring school for nearly two years.

19 Baby Trafficking Defendants Sentenced to 3-6 Years, Mastermind Gets 7 Years

A Bandung court has sentenced 19 individuals to prison terms ranging from three to six years for their involvement in a baby trafficking ring to Singapore. The mastermind of the operation received a heavier sentence of seven years. The verdicts were lighter than the 5-10 year sentences sought by prosecutors.

Oxygen Is Slowly Disappearing, and Most People Haven't Noticed

Scientists warn that dissolved oxygen levels in Earth's oceans, rivers, and lakes are declining at an alarming rate due to global warming and nutrient pollution. This deoxygenation threatens marine life, disrupts vital carbon and nitrogen cycles, and could accelerate climate change by releasing potent greenhouse gases. Researchers are urging that aquatic oxygen loss be recognised as a critical planetary boundary, as recovery would take far longer than the time available to act.

Immigration Exposes Deception of 10 Pakistani-Iranian Foreigners Posing as Investors to Stay in Indonesia

Indonesia's Directorate General of Immigration has uncovered a scheme involving ten foreign nationals from Pakistan and Iran who allegedly posed as investors to obtain stay permits. The suspects are accused of submitting falsified company documents and invalid bank statements to secure their limited stay permits. The case has progressed to the prosecution stage after the Tangerang District Attorney declared the files complete.

SAR Team Recovers Second Victim's Body from Grand Polonia Explosion in Medan

Search and rescue teams have recovered the body of a second victim from the rubble of an explosion at the Grand Polonia housing complex in Medan, North Sumatra. The female victim was found on Tuesday afternoon, bringing the confirmed death toll to two, with one person still missing. Authorities are continuing a delicate search operation amid unstable building conditions, while state gas company PGN has denied police suspicions that a gas leak caused the blast.

Persela Develops Apparel Business to Strengthen Club Independence

Persela Lamongan is launching its own apparel brand, Octagon, as part of a long-term strategy to achieve financial self-sufficiency ahead of the 2026/2027 Championship Indonesia season. The club aims to diversify its revenue streams beyond supplying its own kit by expanding retail distribution and exploring other business ventures. This move is designed to leverage the club's large supporter base to generate sustainable income.

Nusantara People's Festival 2026 Concludes, Boosting Local Economic Growth

The Nusantara People's Festival 2026 officially concluded in Bandung after a 10-day run aimed at stimulating local businesses. The event featured a mix of entertainment, sports, culinary offerings, and creative economy showcases. West Java's Deputy Governor emphasised the importance of consistently involving MSMEs in regional activities beyond ceremonial occasions.

Kubu Raya eyes halal, trade cooperation with Sarawak

Kubu Raya District in West Kalimantan is seeking to transform diplomatic meetings into concrete economic outcomes by strengthening trade and halal industry cooperation with Sarawak, Malaysia. The initiative was pursued during the Borneo International Halal Showcase 2026, with the regent instructing agencies to ensure immediate follow-up actions. The partnership is seen as strategically vital due to Sarawak's proximity, offering a gateway for local micro, small, and medium enterprises to expand into regional markets.

Jakarta Administration Plans Rp3.5 Trillion Municipal Bond Issuance in 2027, Suhaimi Urges Comprehensive Review

The Jakarta Provincial Government is planning to issue municipal bonds worth Rp3.5 trillion in 2027 to fund priority infrastructure projects, including health, transport, and flood control. The plan was discussed during a capacity-building forum with the DPRD, where Governor Pramono Anung stressed the need for synergy in developing creative financing schemes. DPRD Budget Committee member Abdurrahman Suhaimi welcomed the innovation but insisted that any bond issuance must undergo a thorough review to ensure fiscal sustainability, transparency, and long-term public benefit.

KPK Detains West Lombok Regent and Two Other Suspects After Questioning

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has detained West Lombok Regent Lalu Ahmad Zaini and two company directors following a sting operation. The suspects are implicated in alleged corruption involving conflicts of interest, bribery in procurement, and gratuities within the West Lombok Regency Government. Authorities seized evidence worth Rp9.06 billion in connection with the case.

State Secretary Minister says MBG programme budget may decrease

State Secretary Minister Prasetyo Hadi has indicated that the budget for the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme could be reduced following management improvements and data validation at the National Nutrition Agency. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa previously signalled a potential decrease, with the budget possibly being cut from Rp268 trillion to Rp229 trillion. The final figure will be determined after further discussions with the agency.

Immigration Office Strengthens Foreigner Surveillance in Thousand Islands

The Tanjung Priok Immigration Office is enhancing oversight of foreign nationals in the Thousand Islands by promoting the use of the Foreigner Reporting Application (APOA). The initiative aims to educate local authorities and accommodation providers on their reporting obligations. Officials emphasise that cross-agency collaboration is essential for creating an effective and accountable immigration control system.

Zulhas Unveils Major Thematic Farming Village Programme, Rivaling the Red and White Village Cooperatives

Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan has announced the Thematic Farming Village programme, aiming to reach 40,000 villages by 2029 to bolster food and protein self-sufficiency. The initiative, distinct from the coastal-based Red and White Fishermen's Village programme, will focus on developing inland freshwater aquaculture. The government intends for the programme to drive local economies and position Indonesia as a major fish exporter, with implementation set to begin in August 2026.

Badung Environment Agency Pressures Vendor Over Piling Waste at Sempidi TPS3R

The Badung Environment and Hygiene Agency has summoned the operator of the Sempidi waste processing facility after unprocessed rubbish piled up, sparking environmental pollution concerns. The vendor, PT Hejotech, has pledged to deploy 20 trucks daily to evacuate an estimated 300 tonnes of accumulated waste while awaiting new machinery. The local traditional village sought government intervention due to health fears and internal issues including worker salary delays.

Executive Clarifies KPBU APJ Investment, Tolerates Repayment Ceiling of Rp13 Billion from Electricity Tax

The North Lombok KPBU APJ secretariat has clarified that the maximum annual repayment to investors for the public street lighting project will be capped at Rp13 billion, sourced from the region's electricity tax revenue. The project, targeting up to 7,000 light points, will be conducted transparently with central government assistance and a market sounding led by BKPM. Officials cited Madiun's success, where the scheme reduced electricity bills by 57% and increased local tax revenue, as a model for the planned smart system infrastructure.

Viral: Surabaya Malls Erect Tall Iron Fences, Netizens Link to Riot Fears

The installation of 2.5-metre iron fences around four major Pakuwon Group malls in Surabaya has sparked online speculation about impending riots and looting linked to an economic crisis. Management has firmly denied these claims, stating the barriers are purely for pedestrian safety. The group's director dismissed the rumours as baseless, clarifying the measure was to prevent visitors from crossing the wide, open road in front of Pakuwon Mall.

Video of VP Gibran Promising Business Capital Assistance is Deepfake - INP Polri

A viral video falsely depicting Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka announcing a government business capital programme has been confirmed as a deepfake. The manipulated footage originated from his address at the G20 Summit in South Africa, where he discussed artificial intelligence and natural resource management. AI detection analysis indicated a 99.2 percent probability that the audio was artificially generated.

Saan Mustopa Says Garda Pemuda is Key to NasDem Securing Top Three Spot in 2029 Election

NasDem Party Deputy Chairman Saan Mustopa has identified the party's youth wing, Garda Pemuda, as the crucial engine for achieving a top-three finish in the 2029 general election. He stressed the importance of maintaining the integrity of this recruitment source to produce credible future leaders. Mustopa also relayed Chairman Surya Paloh's call for internal solidarity and reiterated the party's commitment to being a solution for society.

Profile of West Lombok Regent and Facts of the KPK Sting Operation Case

West Lombok Regent Lalu Ahmad Zaini has been named a suspect by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) following a sting operation on 20 July. The case involves alleged conflicts of interest, bribery, and gratuities related to procurement projects within the West Lombok Regency government. The KPK has detailed illicit fund flows amounting to IDR 12.4 billion from procurement projects and bribes involving a private company, PT Meconel.

Rupiah strengthens as investor worries over fiscal outlook ease

The Indonesian rupiah has appreciated as market concerns over the nation's fiscal health subside, following a reported budget deficit of just 0.76 percent of GDP through June. Analysts note that the figures have calmed fears of the deficit breaching the 3 percent legal ceiling, which had previously triggered significant foreign capital outflows. The positive sentiment comes ahead of a widely anticipated interest rate decision by Bank Indonesia.

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi Requests Armed Police at Crime Hotspots

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has called for armed police officers to be stationed at crime-prone areas following rising public concern over street crime and social conflicts. The governor confirmed he has coordinated with the West Java Police Chief to strengthen security measures, including patrols in vulnerable locations. Dedi also urged communities to revive neighbourhood watch activities as a form of early detection against criminal elements.

PAM Jaya Shuts Illegal Filling Stations and Master Meters to Curb Water Loss

Jakarta's water utility PAM Jaya has closed all privately managed filling stations and is cracking down on illegal master meters in a bid to reduce its Non-Revenue Water (NRW) rate, which currently stands at 44-45 percent. The utility estimates commercial losses account for 20 percent of the total NRW, with physical leaks and seasonal consumption patterns also contributing to the problem. PAM Jaya is planning a massive Rp 22.8 trillion pipe replacement programme across the capital, with a market sounding scheduled for December.

PDIP Secretary General Reveals Megawati's Message on the 27 July Riot

PDI Perjuangan Secretary General Hasto Kristiyanto has conveyed a message from party chair Megawati Soekarnoputri regarding the 27 July 1996 riot, known as Kudatuli. Megawati stressed that democracy requires a free press, fair law enforcement, and a political environment free from slander. The message was delivered during a commemoration of the violent attack on the party's headquarters.

Cambodia destroys $500 million worth of illegal drugs

Cambodian authorities have incinerated 5.62 tonnes of illegal drugs and precursor chemicals valued at approximately $500 million. The destruction ceremony, led by Deputy Prime Minister Sar Sokha, was intended to send a clear zero-tolerance message to drug traffickers. The move underscores the government's commitment to a drug-free society and follows the arrest of over 12,500 suspects in the first half of 2026.

Purbaya Says Customs and Excise Will Not Be Dissolved After Performance Improves

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa stated that the Directorate General of Customs and Excise (DJBC) will be retained following significant performance improvements, reversing earlier discussions about its dissolution. The minister highlighted organisational restructuring, a crackdown on smuggling, and the use of AI in port surveillance as key factors. Customs and excise revenue reached Rp152 trillion by June 2026, growing 3.4% year-on-year.

Prabowo to Launch National Electric Motorcycle, Palace Says It Will Reduce Fuel Consumption

President Prabowo Subianto is set to launch a domestically produced national electric motorcycle soon, a move the State Palace says is aimed at curbing fossil fuel dependence. The initiative is hailed as an achievement by the nation's youth, with the government pledging to address any shortcomings through evaluation. The launch coincides with a planned subsidy programme targeting 100,000 electric motorcycles at Rp 5 million per unit.

Batu Tumpang Residents Resort to Using Dirty Pond Water for Bathing and Washing

Residents of Batu Tumpang Village in Purwakarta, West Java, have been forced to use murky water from excavation pits for bathing and washing due to a three-month drought. The water, visibly contaminated with mud, plastic waste, and moss, is the only available source for hygiene, while families must purchase refillable water for drinking and cooking. The situation highlights recurring water access issues in the region during the dry season, with government assistance deemed insufficient by locals.

XLSmart Offers Free Google Gemini AI Access, Here's How to Get It

Indonesian telecom operator XLSmart has partnered with Google to provide six months of free access to the Google Gemini Plus package for its prepaid customers. The offer, available from 2 July 2026, applies to XL, AXIS, and Smartfren subscribers who purchase qualifying internet packages. The initiative aims to broaden customer access to artificial intelligence tools for productivity, learning, and content creation.

Ministry of Communication and Digital to Auction 900 MHz Band This Year, Studies 3.5 GHz

The Indonesian Ministry of Communication and Digital plans to auction the 900 MHz frequency band by the end of 2026, following the completion of the 700 MHz and 2.6 GHz selection process. The 900 MHz spectrum is being returned by XLSmart following its merger. The ministry is also conducting a study on the 3.5 GHz band, which is currently shared with satellite services, to determine its future utilisation for public and national interests.

PRR Task Force Urges Regional Governments to Proactively Prepare Land and Infrastructure for Permanent Housing

The Sumatra Post-Disaster Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Task Force (Satgas PRR) has called on regional governments in Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra to expedite land readiness for the construction of permanent housing for hydrometeorological disaster survivors. The Ministry of Housing and Settlement Areas (PKP) has allocated Rp2.22 trillion to build 7,952 units in 2026, with the majority located in Aceh. Authorities stress that land legality and basic infrastructure must be secured to prevent construction delays and ensure the new settlements are safe and well-connected to community facilities.

Riau Police Uncover Subsidised Fuel Fraud: 3 Suspects Arrested, 2 Trucks Seized

Riau Regional Police have dismantled a subsidised fuel misappropriation operation in Rokan Hilir, arresting three suspects and seizing two tanker trucks. The suspects allegedly siphoned Pertalite and Bio Solar from tankers before delivery to petrol stations, storing the fuel in drums and tanks for illegal resale. Authorities have pledged to continue investigating the distribution network, warning that further arrests may follow as they work to protect national energy security and public entitlement.

PLN Confirms 152 Million Tonnes of Coal Supply for Power Plants Secured

State electricity firm PLN has confirmed that its annual requirement of 152 million tonnes of medium-rank coal for steam power plants will be met. The assurance follows a government directive to coal producers to supply over 200 million tonnes to domestic power stations. The Energy Minister also clarified that recent production quota adjustments will not disrupt PLN's operations, as domestic needs are prioritised.

Home Affairs Ministry to Ensure Tuberculosis Handling is Prioritised in Regional Budgets

The Ministry of Home Affairs has pledged to oversee the integration of tuberculosis elimination efforts into regional planning and budgeting documents, including the RPJMD and APBD. Deputy Minister Akhmad Wiyagus stated this commitment is part of supporting the national priority to strengthen human resources. He also stressed the need for accurate data and warned of potential global supply chain disruptions affecting medicine imports.

KPK Maps Companies Suspected of Receiving Fees in West Lombok Regent Project Manipulation Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has identified several companies allegedly used by a suspect to secure procurement projects in West Lombok Regency, with the firms receiving a 3 per cent fee. The anti-graft body plans to demand the return of these illicit fees as part of asset recovery efforts to restore state finances. The case involves the regent, who is accused of receiving over Rp 12 billion in money, goods, and facilities.

Deputy Minister of Social Affairs Calls on Karang Taruna to Support Government Priority Programmes

Deputy Minister of Social Affairs Agus Jabo Priyono has urged the Karang Taruna youth organisation to actively participate in poverty alleviation efforts. He highlighted their potential role in updating the National Socio-Economic Single Data (DTSEN) and supporting the Sekolah Rakyat programme. The initiative aims to ensure social assistance is accurately targeted and to break the cycle of intergenerational poverty.

Cilincing Bina Marga Revitalises Pavements for Pedestrian Comfort

The Cilincing Bina Marga Task Force in North Jakarta is revitalising a 300-metre stretch of pavement on Jalan Syekh Nawawi Al Bantani to improve pedestrian safety and comfort. The project, which involves replacing damaged paving blocks and levelling the surface, has reached 65 percent completion and is expected to finish by the end of July 2026. Residents have welcomed the upgrade, noting the road is frequently used by heavy vehicles.

PAN Dismisses West Lombok Regent Lalu Ahmad Zaini Following Graft Suspect Status

The National Mandate Party (PAN) has dishonourably discharged West Lombok Regent Lalu Ahmad Zaini from his position as party regional head and revoked his membership after the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) named him a suspect. The party has also taken over the provincial leadership and will not provide legal assistance. The KPK alleges Zaini received Rp12.4 billion in illicit funds related to procurement conflicts of interest and project bribes.

IOM: Over 1.6 million Afghan refugees have returned home

The International Organisation for Migration reports that more than 1.6 million Afghan refugees have returned from Pakistan since April 2025, driven primarily by fear of arrest. Since September 2023, a total of 2.5 million Afghans have left Pakistan. An estimated 6 million Afghan refugees, mostly undocumented, currently reside abroad, predominantly in Iran and Pakistan.

Free Nutritious Meal Budget Slashed to Rp 229 Trillion, BGN Reveals Reasons

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has announced a provisional reduction in the 2026 budget for the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme from Rp 268 trillion to Rp 229 trillion. The adjustment aims to improve programme governance and eliminate overlapping services in schools. Officials stressed the figure remains tentative as the agency refocuses on beneficiary numbers to ensure more effective and accurate distribution.

Iran strikes Amazon data centre in Bahrain in retaliation against US

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has claimed responsibility for a missile attack on an Amazon data centre in Bahrain, citing retaliation for a US strike on a nuclear power plant construction site in Darkhovin. The attack marks a significant escalation in the ongoing tit-for-tat military exchanges between Tehran and Washington. The conflict has intensified despite a previously signed memorandum calling for an end to hostilities, with the US president later declaring the ceasefire void.

Megawati Immediately Tasks Pramono-Rano with Revitalising TIM After DKI Election Win

PDI-P Chairperson Megawati Soekarnoputri has instructed newly elected Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung and Deputy Governor Rano Karno to restore Taman Ismail Marzuki (TIM) to its former glory as a hub for artists. She lamented that the cultural centre had become 'bourgeois' and unaffordable for performers. Megawati also urged the younger generation to embrace their creativity, recalling Indonesia's rich artistic heritage under President Sukarno.

UMJ Vice-Rector IV Provides Input on Asset Forfeiture Bill at DPR RI

Dr. Septa Candra of Universitas Muhammadiyah Jakarta presented academic recommendations for the Asset Forfeiture Bill to the House of Representatives' Commission III. He stressed the urgency of the legislation to recover state losses and proposed a non-conviction based mechanism as a last resort. The bill aims to shift the legal approach from punitive to restorative by allowing asset confiscation without a criminal conviction under specific conditions.

IDAI Urges Parents to Communicate and Observe Children's Behaviour for Mental Health

The Indonesian Paediatric Society (IDAI) has called on parents to maintain open communication and closely monitor their children's behaviour to detect mental health issues early. A specialist noted that symptoms of depression in children and adolescents, such as loss of interest and appetite, are often dismissed as normal teenage behaviour. Parents are advised to seek early detection at health facilities and support their children through balanced nutrition, physical activity, and positive school engagement.

New Housing Development Targets Modern Families in Alam Sutera

Alam Sutera has launched RUMI @ Cluster Aruna, a new collection of modern tropical two-storey homes in Downtown Alam Sutera, Tangerang, targeting young families and end-users. The development offers limited units with smart home features and exclusive facilities, responding to high demand and limited land availability in the mature township. The company has partnered with major banks to facilitate purchases, highlighting the project's competitive pricing and investment potential.

KPK Seizes Rp9 Billion in Evidence from West Lombok Regent Sting Operation

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has named West Lombok Regent Lalu Ahmad Zaini a suspect following a sting operation that netted approximately Rp9.06 billion in cash and assets. The case stems from the monitoring of a regional water company director who allegedly withdrew Rp1.25 billion intended for the regent. Three individuals have been named as primary suspects in connection with alleged procurement irregularities and gratification within the West Lombok administration.

Rubbish Overflows at Sempidi TPS3R, Badung, Residents Complain of Pungent Odour

Waste has been piling up at the Bumi Resik TPS3R facility in Sempidi, Badung, since May due to a lack of sorting equipment and unpaid worker salaries. The overflow, exacerbated by illegally dumped rubbish, has drawn complaints from residents about the stench and prompted Badung Regent I Wayan Adi Arnawa to demand immediate action and a formal decision from the traditional village on the future of the third-party operator.

Something Is Wrong with Earth, Scientists Growing More Worried

Scientists are increasingly alarmed by new data showing Earth's energy imbalance (EEI) has more than doubled since 2000, far exceeding the projections of established climate models. The planet is absorbing significantly more solar energy than it radiates back into space, with over 90% of the excess heat being stored in the oceans. This accelerating trend suggests climate change may be progressing faster than previously anticipated, prompting researchers to question the reliability of current predictive models.

AGO Issues 3 New Investigation Warrants, Febrie Adriansyah's Travel Ban Status Confirmed Unchanged

The Attorney General's Office has issued three new investigation warrants related to corruption and money laundering cases involving former junior attorney general Febrie Adriansyah. Despite the case being taken over from the police, the immigration directorate confirms the overseas travel ban against him remains in effect. The ban will stay until its expiry, after which the AGO will decide on an extension.

Minister Dody Reveals 'Very Serious' Internal Problems at Public Works Ministry, Exposes Various Cases Including Corruption

Public Works Minister Dody Hanggodo has disclosed that his ministry is grappling with severe internal issues, including ethical violations and corruption. He detailed a strengthened whistleblowing system where reports are verified by the Inspectorate General before being forwarded to authorities. The minister stated he is frequently reshuffling officials as part of a major organisational overhaul to improve governance.

West Lombok Regent Caught in KPK Sting, NTB Governor Urges It Be the Last Lesson

West Nusa Tenggara Governor Lalu Muhamad Iqbal expressed deep concern after the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) arrested West Lombok Regent Lalu Ahmad Zaini in a sting operation. The governor called for improved governance and integrity among all officials in the province, hoping this incident marks the final corruption case in NTB. The KPK has named three suspects in the case, which involves alleged procurement fraud and bribery, while the National Mandate Party (PAN) has dishonourably dismissed Zaini from his position as regional chairman and revoked his party membership.

DJBC Performance Improvement Recognised by Prabowo, Purbaya Cancels Customs Dissolution

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has confirmed that the Directorate General of Customs and Excise (DJBC) will not be disbanded, following President Prabowo's acknowledgement of significant performance improvements. The minister noted that a leadership overhaul has boosted revenue collection and curbed smuggling. Purbaya had previously threatened a major restructuring of the tax and customs agencies to plug state revenue leaks.

President Opens Possibility for Electric Motorcycles to Be Used by Other Institutions

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has stated that President Prabowo Subianto is open to allowing electric motorcycles, originally procured for the Free Nutritious Meals programme, to be used by other ministries and agencies. The BGN noted that the motorcycles are not actually needed by the heads of the Nutrition Service Fulfilment Units (SPPG), whose roles are primarily supervisory. Interested institutions, including the Ministry of Population and Family Development, have been invited to submit their proposals for the vehicles' use to the President.

21km Run Mission of a Thalassemia Survivor: Educating on the Importance of Screening

Stanley Joewono, a Thalassemia Beta Major survivor, is running 21 kilometres at the Virgin Half Marathon Jakarta Running Festival 2026 to raise awareness about the blood disorder. He aims to prove that survivors can lead active lives and inspire others to take simple steps towards prevention. Stanley is also fundraising to support educational campaigns and screening programmes, emphasising that early detection is crucial to preventing new cases of Thalassemia major.

South Sumatra Governor Initiates National Organisation for Community Protection Units

South Sumatra Governor Herman Deru has proposed the formation of a national organisation to serve as an umbrella body for Indonesia's Community Protection Units (Satlinmas). The initiative also aims to position Satlinmas as the vanguard of the 'Gerakan Indonesia Asri' programme, focusing on waste sorting. The plan was discussed during a meeting with the Governor of Bangka Belitung Islands and a special staff member from the Attorney General's Office.

Bank bjb and Manpower Ministry Strengthen Synergy to Boost National HR Competence

Bank bjb and Indonesia's Ministry of Manpower have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to enhance workforce competency and expand banking services. The partnership includes capacity building for human resources and the provision of retail credit facilities. The collaboration aims to create a more competitive workforce and support sustainable business growth.

Police name four suspects in murder of Indonesian Army soldier in Tangerang

South Tangerang police have named four civilians as suspects in the fatal stabbing of an Indonesian Army soldier in Kelapa Dua, Tangerang. The victim, identified by the initials ABS, suffered ten stab wounds and was found dead on a roadside. Authorities are still investigating the motive while three other individuals remain in custody pending further inquiry.

Foreign Minister Sugiono Urges ASEAN to Strengthen Resilience and Collective Response

Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono has called on ASEAN member states to bolster regional resilience and enhance collective preparedness in response to increasingly complex global dynamics. Speaking at the 59th ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting Retreat in Manila, he stressed that external developments directly impact Southeast Asian communities and require a more effective, unified response. Sugiono also highlighted the need for concrete action on food and energy security, supply chain stability, and inclusive approaches to the Myanmar crisis.

Komdigi Accelerates 900 MHz and 3.5 GHz Frequency Auctions, Here is the Schedule

Indonesia's Ministry of Communication and Digital (Komdigi) is preparing to auction the 900 MHz and 3.5 GHz frequency bands following the completion of the 700 MHz and 2.6 GHz spectrum selection. The 900 MHz auction is targeted to begin this year, while the 3.5 GHz band requires further technical study to ensure co-existence between mobile and satellite services. The 900 MHz spectrum became available after XLSmart returned it as part of the XL Axiata and Smartfren merger.

Bukit Kapur Police Harvest One Tonne of Maize, Supporting Food Self-Sufficiency

The Bukit Kapur Police Sector in Dumai harvested one tonne of maize from a 0.5-hectare plot as part of a national food self-sufficiency drive. The harvest, led by the local police chief, demonstrates collaboration between law enforcement, local government, and the community. The initiative aims to boost agricultural productivity and strengthen food security.

Purbaya Wants Additional Cigarette Excise Layer to Take Effect This Year

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has stated that the government's plan to add a new layer to the cigarette excise tariff structure is still under discussion with the House of Representatives, but he insists it will be implemented this year. The policy aims to combat illegal cigarette circulation and boost state revenue, though civil society groups argue it will not effectively eliminate illicit trade and could increase public health costs. The plan has been criticised for its complexity, with activists calling for a simplification of Indonesia's excise system instead.

House Deputy Speaker Dasco Meets Anti-Corruption Activists and Former KPK Leaders

Deputy Speaker of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Sufmi Dasco Ahmad, held a meeting with prominent anti-corruption activists and former leaders of the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) at the parliament complex in Jakarta. The discussion focused on strengthening corruption prevention measures and ensuring a stronger deterrent effect. The group also provided input on the asset forfeiture bill currently under deliberation in the parliament.

Presidential Staff Office Appreciates Prison Programme Providing Skills for Inmates

The Presidential Staff Office has praised rehabilitation programmes at Tangerang Class I Prison, highlighting how inmates are being equipped with valuable skills for life after their sentences. During a visit, Chief of Staff Dudung Abdurachman noted the production of marketable goods from coal waste as a particularly successful initiative. The visit forms part of monitoring the government's strategic policy on strengthening the correctional system through empowerment and social reintegration.

Social Affairs Minister Appreciates Bandung Regency's Support for 'Sekolah Rakyat' Programme

Indonesian Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf has praised the Bandung Regency government for its active role in realising the President's 'Sekolah Rakyat' (People's Schools) programme. The regency has prepared 7.6 hectares of land in Ciwidey for a permanent school and has already enrolled 270 students from extremely poor families in a pilot school in Soreang. The initiative aims to provide education for up to 1,000 students from primary to senior high school levels.

Purbaya Targets PFII to Operate This Year, Location Still Under Review

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa aims to have the Indonesian International Financial Centre (PFII) operational within the year, despite the implementing government regulation still being drafted. He noted that global uncertainty is driving demand for such financial hubs, presenting a timely opportunity. Several locations, including special economic zones in Bali, are being considered based on speed, cost, and attractiveness to foreign investors.

Civil Coalition Condemns Military Involvement in Taxpayer Oversight

A coalition of Indonesian civil society organisations has strongly condemned a new tax office policy that allows the military to help monitor taxpayer compliance down to the village level. The groups argue the move blurs civil-military boundaries, risks intimidating citizens, and violates legal mandates. They are demanding the government revoke the policy, which they describe as a manifestation of a 'politics of fear'.

Purbaya on MBG Budget Efficiency: Awaiting Meeting with BGN Chief

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa is set to meet the Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) later this week to discuss budget efficiency for the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. The BGN has confirmed the programme's budget will be significantly reduced from the initial Rp268 trillion figure, though the exact amount remains undisclosed. The efficiency drive includes improving governance and reassessing the standard per-portion cost across different regions.

BKPM Revokes Licences of 10 Bogus Foreign Investors with Fictitious Rp10 Billion Capital

Indonesia's Investment Ministry has revoked the business permits of ten companies linked to foreign nationals who fabricated investment activities. The firms, associated with Pakistani and Iraqi citizens, showed no genuine business operations and failed to meet the minimum foreign investment requirement of Rp10 billion. The case files have been declared complete and handed over to the Tangerang District Prosecutor's Office for further legal proceedings.

35th NU Congress Approaches: East Java PWNU Nominates Its Chairman to Lead PBNU

The East Java Regional Board of Nahdlatul Ulama has formally nominated its chairman, KH Abdul Hakim Mahfudz, as a candidate for the top post of the national executive board ahead of the 35th NU Congress in Jombang. The decision was described as a unanimous institutional mandate, not a personal ambition, following extensive internal deliberations. Supporters cite his commitment to restoring the organisation's foundational principles and his financial independence as key assets for a leadership focused purely on service.

Indonesia Urges ASEAN to Bolster Preparedness for Global Crises

Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono has called on ASEAN to strengthen its collective resilience and preparedness in the face of increasingly complex global dynamics. Speaking at a ministerial retreat in Manila, he stressed the need for concrete coordination on food and energy security, supply chains, and regional readiness. The meeting also addressed the situations in Myanmar and the South China Sea.

Home Affairs Minister Clarifies Viral Story of Residents Building Enang-Enang Bridge in Aceh

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian has clarified the viral narrative that residents in Bener Meriah, Aceh, built the Enang-Enang Bridge independently. He explained that the steel bridge structure remained intact after a landslide, and residents only constructed a temporary sirtu road to bypass the damaged section. The government has now agreed to allow limited use of the bridge while preparing a permanent replacement.

Misery of a State Primary School in Kebayoran Lama, Collapsed for Years

A state primary school building in Kebayoran Lama, South Jakarta, has remained in ruins since collapsing in November 2024, forcing hundreds of students to study in shifts at a neighbouring school. Parents have voiced concerns over the impact on their children's education and religious studies, appealing directly to the Jakarta governor for urgent intervention. Governor Pramono Anung has pledged to prioritise the school's repair after the issue went viral on social media.

State Palace: Strong economic fundamentals mean budget cuts not yet needed

The Indonesian government has stated that the country's strong economic fundamentals and healthy fiscal position mean there is currently no need to cut the defence or police budgets. State Secretary Minister Prasetyo Hadi confirmed that such cuts would only be considered if fiscal conditions came under pressure. The government remains focused on maintaining fiscal health while ensuring state spending is effective and aligned with President Prabowo Subianto's priority programmes.

Final Victim of Grand Polonia Mansion Explosion in Medan Found, Total Death Toll Reaches Three

Search and rescue teams have recovered the body of the third and final victim from the devastating explosion at a luxury home in Medan's Grand Polonia complex. The blast resulted in three fatalities, including the homeowner's wife and two domestic staff, while three others survived. Authorities have concluded the evacuation phase and are now focusing on a full investigation into the cause of the incident.

Pertamina blames driver fraud for long fuel queues in North Sumatra

PT Pertamina has attributed the lengthy queues for fuel in North Sumatra to fraudulent actions by tanker drivers. The state-owned energy firm has disciplined the drivers involved but denied carrying out mass dismissals. The government has confirmed national fuel reserves remain above minimum standards and the military is assisting to normalise distribution.

The Fate of BGN's Idle Rp 1 Trillion Electric Motorcycle Project

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has confirmed that 21,801 electric motorcycles, procured for over Rp 1 trillion, will not be left idle after the free nutritious meal programme they were intended for was revised. Several ministries and agencies have expressed interest in utilising the vehicles. The final decision on their reallocation rests with President Prabowo Subianto following a review.

PBNU Finalises 35th Congress Agenda Through Pre-Congress Deliberations

The Nahdlatul Ulama Executive Board (PBNU) is refining the agenda for its 35th Congress through pre-congress discussions to ensure a more effective plenary session. Key focuses include the digital transformation of the organisation and potential governance reforms. Officials also dismissed rumours that branch leadership decrees were being withheld to influence the congress vote.

NTB Museum to Launch Exclusive Night Tour Programme

The West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) State Museum is set to introduce an exclusive night tour programme called 'Night at the Museum' in the third week of August 2026. The initiative aims to offer visitors a unique and intimate experience exploring historical and cultural collections after dark, accompanied by music and discussions with archaeologists. The programme marks the first time the 44-year-old museum has opened for evening visits, reinforcing its role as a dynamic public space.

DPR Ensures Bill Deliberations Continue During Recess to Meet Public Needs

The Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) has confirmed that deliberations on several strategic bills will continue during the parliamentary recess. Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad stated that this move aims to ensure public needs are met without delay and to provide legal certainty. Key legislation under discussion includes the Asset Forfeiture Bill and the One Data Indonesia Bill.

Doctor: Children Not Complaining Does Not Mean They Are Free from Myopia

An Indonesian paediatric ophthalmologist has cautioned parents against waiting for children to complain of blurry vision before getting their eyes checked, as many with myopia are unaware of the impairment. Dr. Indah Saraswati highlighted behavioural changes such as sitting too close to screens or squinting as key early warning signs. She stressed that early detection is crucial to prevent suboptimal treatment outcomes, particularly for lazy eye, which becomes difficult to treat after the age of ten.

Tabanan Police Chief Joins TNI Harvest Festival to Support National Food Security

Tabanan Police Chief AKBP I Putu Bayu Pati joined a mass harvest event in Penebel, Bali, demonstrating the police force's commitment to the government's national food security programme. The event, attended by military and local government officials, highlighted the synergy between the TNI, Polri, and the community. President Prabowo Subianto addressed the gathering virtually, calling for national unity to achieve self-sufficiency in food and energy.

Immigration Uncovers Fake Investment Scheme: 10 Foreigners Used Bogus Companies for Indonesian Visas as Transit to Europe

Indonesia's Directorate General of Immigration has exposed a scheme involving 10 foreign nationals from Pakistan and Iran who used fictitious companies and forged documents to obtain investor visas. The suspects reportedly used Indonesia merely as a transit point, aiming to secure Indonesian residency permits to facilitate their travel to Europe. The case has been handed over to prosecutors after investigators found invalid bank statements and legally defective company deeds.

Digital Storytelling Education for Acehnese Kasap Embroidery Artisans

The Aceh Institute of Indonesian Arts and Culture (ISBI) and Jabal Ghafur University have launched a digital storytelling training programme for traditional Kasap embroidery artisans in Pidie Regency. The initiative aims to boost the competitiveness of the heritage craft through Marketing 4.0 strategies without compromising its cultural values. Funded by the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology, the programme seeks to elevate the 'KASAPAURA GOLD' product into a national and international creative economy icon.

Kalibaru Residents Utilise 'Grebek TBC' for Early Detection

Hundreds of residents in North Jakarta participated in a free health screening programme aimed at the early detection of tuberculosis. The 'Grebek TBC' initiative combines medical examinations with direct education from lung specialists to curb transmission. The effort aligns with the national priority to achieve TB elimination by 2030.

Indonesia-France Fashion Collaboration Strengthens with PINTU Incubator Foundation

The PINTU Incubator programme is formalising its role in Indonesia's fashion industry by establishing a foundation to ensure long-term sustainability. The initiative, a collaboration between Indonesia and France, continues to support designers through incubation, business acceleration, and cross-cultural residencies. The latest collections from these programmes will be showcased at the JF3 Fashion Festival 2026.

US-Iran War Claims More Victims, Fuel Prices Explode to Rp 72,000

The escalating military conflict between the United States and Iran has sent shockwaves through global energy markets, pushing US consumer petrol prices to an average of US$4 per gallon. The surge is primarily driven by a dramatic reduction in tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil supplies. Analysts warn that the resulting energy price spike could undermine recent cooling inflation data and force the Federal Reserve to raise interest rates later this year.

BGN Confirms Electric Motorcycles Will Not Be Given to SPPG Heads

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has confirmed that thousands of electric motorcycles, whose procurement is currently under legal scrutiny, will not be distributed to the heads of the Nutrition Fulfilment Service Units (SPPG) as originally intended. The agency is currently assessing alternative uses for the vehicles, noting that many are trail bikes unsuitable for the intended purpose. The BGN insists the motorcycles will still be utilised as they have already been paid for with state funds.

Surabaya Mayor Hunts Down Thugs Extorting Street Vendors at Taman Bungkul CFD

Surabaya Mayor Eri Cahyadi has personally intervened following complaints of illegal levies being imposed on street vendors at the Taman Bungkul Car Free Day. The mayor confirmed that trading at the location is free of charge and is coordinating with the East Java Police to track down the alleged female perpetrators. He also warned vendors that their permits would be revoked if they fail to maintain cleanliness at the public site.

Forest and land fires spread across three sub-districts in West Aceh

Forest and land fires have scorched nine hectares across three sub-districts in West Aceh Regency, with firefighting efforts hampered by limited water sources and strong winds. Authorities have fully extinguished one blaze in Meureubo, but fires in Samatiga and Johan Pahlawan remain only 35 per cent contained. The cause of the fires is still under investigation.

Dedi Mulyadi: Nature Conservation is the Foundation for a 'Special Purwakarta'

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has called for a unified effort to protect Purwakarta's natural environment, positioning ecological preservation as the cornerstone of the region's development. Speaking at the district's 195th anniversary, he outlined a vision based on ecosystem, philosophy, and technocracy. The governor also linked environmental stewardship with the moral development of the younger generation.

Provincial Secretary Invites MSMEs and Investors to Actively Participate in the SINERGI Kaltara Ecosystem

The North Kalimantan provincial government has launched SINERGI Kaltara, a digital platform designed to connect local micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) with the operational needs of industrial zones. The system aims to ensure local businesses become a primary part of the industrial supply chain, particularly in the Tanah Kuning–Mangkupadi industrial area. The government is shifting to a proactive approach by directly engaging investors to map out industrial demands that can be met by local MSMEs.

PFII to Continue Using State Budget, For What?

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has confirmed that the state budget will be used for the operational costs of the Indonesian International Financial Centre, though its role will be limited. The funds are earmarked for official salaries and contingency reserves, while the bulk of initial development capital will come from the Danantara sovereign wealth fund. The government has assured that the budget allocation is strictly a safety net to ensure operations continue during any financial shortfalls.

West Lombok Regent Named Corruption Suspect, KPK Seizes Rp9.06 Billion in Evidence

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has named West Lombok Regent Lalu Ahmad Zaini a suspect in a graft case involving conflicts of interest in procurement, bribery, and gratuities. The anti-graft agency also detained two company directors and seized evidence worth approximately Rp9.06 billion following a sting operation.

DKI Jakarta Council Inspects PAM JAYA Facilities, Pushes for NRW Reduction and Household Connections

The DKI Jakarta Regional People's Representative Council (DPRD) has inspected PAM JAYA facilities to review efforts in reducing Non-Revenue Water (NRW). The council is urging the municipally owned water company to accelerate household pipe connections, which currently only cover 44 per cent of the target. A massive pipe replacement programme requiring up to IDR 22 trillion in investment was also discussed.

Learning from Qatar: When Human Development Opens Doors for Indonesian Talent

Qatar's National Vision 2030 places human development at the core of its economic diversification strategy, prioritising education and skills over physical infrastructure. This approach presents a significant opportunity for Indonesia, which can leverage its cultural strengths in hospitality and its demographic dividend to supply skilled professionals for Qatar's expanding service and tourism sectors. The shift requires viewing Indonesian workers not merely as migrant labour but as global talent equipped with international competencies.

Data Centre Pelted with Salt and Vinegar, Called Root of Genocide

Environmental activists from Extinction Rebellion attacked a Microsoft-linked data centre construction site in Amsterdam, hurling balloons filled with corrosive substances to accelerate structural decay. The group claims the project circumvents a local ban on hyperscale data centres and links it to the climate crisis, artificial intelligence dangers, and alleged complicity in Gaza. The developer reports no significant damage, but the incident highlights growing global resistance to energy-intensive AI infrastructure.

Indonesia begins first Russian oil imports under 150-million-barrel plan

Indonesia has commenced its first imports of Russian crude oil under a 150-million-barrel procurement plan, with Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia confirming the initial order was placed through Lemigas. The move, authorised under Presidential Regulation No. 26 of 2026, aims to bolster national energy security by shortening supply chains and enabling government-to-government procurement. Minister Lahadalia stressed that Indonesia will continue importing oil from any source as long as it complies with regulations, asserting that national sovereignty cannot be interfered with by other countries.

Kadin and Ministry of Industry Strengthen Chemical Emergency Response

The Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) and the Ministry of Industry are collaborating to bolster the implementation of chemical emergency prevention and response measures. This initiative follows the enactment of Government Regulation No. 28 of 2025, which mandates high and medium-high risk industrial companies to obtain a certified compliance certificate. The effort aims to shift the regulation from a mere administrative burden to an integral part of corporate safety culture and operational sustainability.

Social Affairs Ministry Disburses Rp 61.8 Billion in Aid to North Aceh

The Ministry of Social Affairs has channelled a total of Rp 61.8 billion in post-disaster assistance to North Aceh Regency. The aid, distributed in stages based on verified local government data, includes compensation for heirs, injury support, housing contents, and living allowances. Minister Saifullah Yusuf confirmed that further disbursements are being processed pending accurate data submission.

500 Permanent Homes for Disaster Victims Completed, 7,952 More Units to Be Built

The Indonesian government has completed 500 permanent homes for disaster victims in Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra. A further 7,952 units, funded by a Rp 2.2 trillion state budget, are set to begin construction in September 2026 across 54 locations, pending resolution of land acquisition issues.

Khofifah Awards Rp1.9 Billion to Top 10 Village Cooperative Units in East Java

East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa has awarded a total of Rp1.9 billion in development funds to the ten best-performing Village Cooperatives (KDKMP) in the province. The cooperatives were recognised for recording the highest transaction values, with Tuban Regency dominating the top rankings. The Governor highlighted the vital role of cooperatives and MSMEs, which contribute 60 per cent to East Java's economic growth.

Lebanese Army Begins Troop Deployment Under Ceasefire Agreement

The Lebanese Army has commenced deploying forces in the southern town of Zawtar Al Gharbiyeh as the first phase of a US-mediated framework agreement with Israel. The deployment follows the withdrawal of Israeli troops and vehicles from the area, with engineering units conducting initial surveys for explosives. The agreement stipulates a gradual Israeli withdrawal from occupied Lebanese territory, contingent on the Lebanese army assuming full security control and disarming militant groups including Hezbollah.

East Java's KDKMP Records Highest National Performance and Transaction Value: Minister

Cooperative Minister Ferry Juliantono announced that the Merah Putih Village/Subdistrict Cooperatives (KDKMP) in East Java have achieved the highest performance and transaction value nationally. Ten KDKMP units in the province recorded a combined transaction value of Rp14.05 billion, with four units in Tuban alone surpassing the total transactions of several other provinces. The ministry plans to present a special award to East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa for the rapid establishment and strong performance of the cooperatives.

Unesa Researcher Develops Anticancer Drug Candidate from Tropical Flora

A researcher from Surabaya State University is developing anticancer drug candidates derived from Indonesia's tropical plants. The phytochemical research, ongoing since 2018, has isolated promising bioactive compounds from various endemic species. The study focuses on creating safer, more selective herbal therapies for cervical and breast cancers.

EPMT Reduces Subsidiary Capital, Focuses on Strengthening Group Efficiency

PT Enseval Putera Megatrading Tbk (EPMT) has reduced the issued and paid-up capital of its subsidiary, PT Mitra Ananda Megadistrindo (MAM), as part of an internal investment restructuring. The company stated the corporate action is purely administrative and strategic, aimed at creating a more efficient capital structure without impacting its financial condition or operational activities. EPMT confirmed the transaction does not change its control over the subsidiary and is not classified as a material transaction or a conflict of interest under OJK regulations.

Indonesia Targets 100 Mbps Mobile Broadband Speed by 2029, Ministry Reveals

The Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs has announced that Indonesia's mobile broadband speed is projected to gradually reach 100 Mbps by 2029. This follows the selection of three mobile operators as winners of the 700 MHz and 2.6 GHz spectrum auctions. The government expects the spectrum allocation to generate Rp 6 trillion in initial non-tax state revenue and a total of Rp 30 trillion over ten years.

KPK Reveals Rp12.4 Billion Allegedly Flowed to West Lombok Regent, Here's the Modus Operandi

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has detailed how West Lombok Regent Lalu Ahmad Zaini allegedly received Rp12.4 billion in illicit funds. The money reportedly came from a conflict of interest in procurement projects and a bribery scheme involving a regional water company. The case highlights systemic corruption in local government tendering processes.

Police Expected to Be at the Forefront of Security and Public Service

A student leader has called on the Indonesian National Police to use its 80th Bhayangkara Day anniversary as a catalyst for enhancing professionalism and humanistic public service. Devon Noel Putra Nugroho, Chairman of the UKI Jakarta Law Faculty Student Executive Board, praised the force's role in maintaining stability and supporting national development. He urged all elements of society, especially students, to collaborate with the police to foster a conducive and peaceful environment.

Over 80 Percent of Indonesia's Region Potentially Drier During August-September

The Indonesian Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has warned that over 80 percent of the country could experience drier-than-normal conditions during the peak of the 2026 dry season. The agency attributes the heightened risk of drought to the strengthening El Niño phenomenon, which has already reached moderate intensity. The public is urged to anticipate the impacts, as the dry season is expected to be more severe and prolonged than usual.

Megawati Remembers 30 Years Since Kudatuli: 'I Am Sad, But I Do Not Cry'

PDI-P chairperson Megawati Soekarnoputri reflected on the 30th anniversary of the 27 July 1996 attack on her party's headquarters, known as Kudatuli, expressing enduring sadness and confusion over the state-backed assault. She questioned why her legally recognised office was attacked simply because her faction won the party leadership, describing the event as a symbol of injustice. The attack, orchestrated by a rival faction with military support under the Soeharto regime, resulted in five deaths, 149 injuries, and 23 disappearances.

700 Fishing Vessels at Benoa Port to Be Relocated to PPN Pengambengan

Approximately 700 fishing vessels currently operating at Benoa Port in Bali are scheduled for a phased relocation to the Nusantara Fishing Port (PPN) Pengambengan in Jembrana. The move is set to commence in 2027 and conclude by the end of 2028, following the completion of new port facilities. The development will see the port's land area expanded from 14 hectares to 49 hectares to accommodate the influx of vessels.

Seychelles eyes Indonesia's Pemapak hot springs tourism potential

Seychelles has expressed interest in investing in the development of Pemapak Hot Springs in Berau, East Kalimantan, as a sustainable tourism destination. The visit by the Seychelles President's Special Envoy to ASEAN highlighted the site's potential to boost the regional economy and local welfare through partnerships and investment. The envoy emphasised the importance of integrating local wisdom and cultural identity to create a unique, year-round visitor experience.

Former Kejagung Spokesperson and Health Ministry Official Appointed to Senior Roles at National Nutrition Agency

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has reshuffled its top leadership, appointing five new high-ranking officials, including a former spokesperson for the Attorney General's Office and a former director from the Ministry of Health. The appointments are intended to strengthen the agency's management and improve the implementation of the Free Nutritious Meals programme. The new deputies will focus on overhauling systems for targeting, distribution, and financial accountability.

Cooperatives Must Connect Farmers to Consumers, Ministry Says

Indonesia's Cooperatives Ministry has called for cooperatives to evolve beyond savings and loan entities into integrated economic ecosystem drivers. The ministry envisions cooperatives, particularly the new Village/Sub-district Red and White Cooperatives (KDKMP), acting as crucial links connecting farmers, fishermen, and small businesses to processing, financing, and consumer markets. This approach aims to resolve persistent supply chain fragmentation and add value to the nation's abundant natural resources.

Yasunaga Air Pumps: A Solution for Water Quality in Free Nutritious Meals and Sekolah Rakyat Programmes

The success of Indonesia's Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) and Sekolah Rakyat programmes hinges on proper wastewater management to prevent environmental pollution. PT Maha Tirta Utama highlights the critical role of Yasunaga air pumps in the aeration process of Wastewater Treatment Plants (IPAL) for these facilities. Integrating reliable IPAL systems from the outset is essential to ensure the health and sustainability goals of these government initiatives are met.

Arrested by Police: The Roles of the 4 Killers of a TNI Soldier in South Tangerang

Police have arrested four suspects in connection with the fatal stabbing of Indonesian Army soldier Arif Budi Sampurna in Tangerang Regency. The suspects, who were not acquainted with the victim, had distinct roles including chasing, striking, and ultimately stabbing the soldier. Authorities are continuing their investigation to determine the exact motive behind the murder.

Ministers Meet with Gojek and Grab to Discuss Ride-Hailing Driver Welfare

Indonesian ministers convened with major ride-hailing platforms, including Gojek and Grab, to evaluate the implementation of a revenue-sharing policy that allocates 92 per cent of fares to drivers. The meeting also advanced plans to classify online motorcycle taxi (ojol) drivers as micro, small, and medium enterprises (UMKM), a move supported by the companies. The government aims to harmonise regulations across ministries to ensure a fair and sustainable digital transport ecosystem.

Bontang City Government Strengthens Future Generation Foundation Through Youth Pre-Marital Guidance

The Bontang City Government is investing in its future human resources by providing pre-marital guidance to school-age teenagers. The programme, organised by the Sakinah Family Movement, aims to equip students with the knowledge and character needed to build strong families. Officials stressed that completing education and gaining life skills must take precedence before considering marriage.

National Internship Programme Eases Industry Access to Job-Ready Talent, Says Minister

Indonesia's Manpower Minister Yassierli has stated that the National Internship Programme (MagangHub) provides a more effective recruitment mechanism for industries seeking skilled workers. The programme allows companies to mentor and assess potential employees' competencies directly before hiring. The minister also highlighted the scheme's role in equipping inexperienced graduates with practical work experience, thereby improving their employability.

Purbaya and Officials Clarify Babinsa Role in Tax Matters, Here Are the Facts

The Directorate General of Taxes has clarified that the involvement of village supervisory non-commissioned officers (Babinsa) and community security officers (Bhabinkamtibmas) in tax affairs is limited to internal coordination and information gathering. Officials stressed the policy, updated in 2026 from a 2020 regulation, does not authorise military or police personnel to conduct tax collection or audits. The tax office emphasised its primary enforcement tools remain modern technology systems like Compliance Risk Management and the Core Tax System.

China's International Flight Routes Reach 177 Cities Across 80 Countries

Chinese airlines now operate regular international passenger routes connecting 177 cities in 80 countries across five continents, with over 1,000 international routes in total. International passenger trips exceeded 40 million in the first half of the year, a 5.7 per cent increase year-on-year. The domestically produced C919 aircraft is also set to make its international debut on the Beijing-Ulaanbaatar route in August.

ESDM reveals 4 main utilisation sectors for hydrogen development

Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources has identified four key sectors for national hydrogen utilisation: industry, transport, power generation, and export commodities. The strategy is outlined in the National Hydrogen and Ammonia Roadmap, which sets short-term initiation targets for 2025-2034. The long-term goal is to position Indonesia as a global hydrogen economic hub while reducing fossil fuel dependence.

Wushu Indonesia Requests Training Camp in China Ahead of 2026 Asian Games

The Indonesian Wushu Association (PBWI) has requested the Indonesian Chef de Mission to facilitate an overseas training camp in China to maintain the sport's gold medal tradition at the 2026 Asian Games. Secretary-General Ngatino emphasised the urgent need for sparring partners and high-level competition exposure, particularly for sanda (combat) athletes, citing limited domestic opponents. The programme is also seen as vital for boosting the motivation of taolu (artistic) athletes by training alongside top Chinese competitors.

MPR Deputy Speaker Urges Data-Driven Student Admission System to Tackle Under-Subscribed State Primary Schools

MPR Deputy Speaker Lestari Moerdijat has called for a data-driven overhaul of the new student admission system (SPMB) to address the growing number of state primary schools with dwindling enrolments. She highlighted a significant demographic imbalance, noting that while the number of primary schools has increased, the student population has declined sharply over the past decade. Moerdijat urged central and regional governments to coordinate on a population-based education roadmap to ensure equitable access to quality schooling.

Energy Ministry to Trial 3 kg CNG Cylinders in West Java Starting August 2026

Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources will begin trials of 3 kg Compressed Natural Gas cylinders as a substitute for subsidised LPG in West Java from August 2026. The initial pilot will focus on major cities to assess infrastructure readiness and public response, with safety testing currently underway at the Lemigas laboratory. The government is also exploring a manufacturing partnership with state-owned arms producer PT Pindad to support domestic production of the cylinders.

Digitising Zakat and Alms: Boosting Transparency and Effectiveness in Poverty Alleviation

The digitalisation of zakat and alms is enhancing transparency and efficiency in poverty alleviation by enabling real-time tracking and data-driven distribution of funds. While digital platforms broaden donor access and reduce operational costs, challenges such as the digital divide and data security must be addressed. With proper regulation and collaboration, this shift can transform charitable giving into a more impactful tool for social empowerment.

Why Companies Are Finding It Increasingly Difficult to Find Quality Leaders

Despite a growing labour market, Indonesian companies are struggling to fill senior leadership positions. The traditional recruitment model fails to attract top-tier passive candidates who are not actively seeking new roles. The challenge is compounded by the need for leaders who can manage transformation and digitalisation, making leadership quality a key competitive advantage.

Houthi Blockade of Saudi Ships Threatens to Worsen Global Energy Crisis

Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi movement has announced a maritime blockade against Saudi Arabian vessels, threatening to close the Bab al-Mandab Strait. The escalation comes amid heightened regional tensions, with the US and Iran exchanging further strikes in the Persian Gulf. Analysts warn that blocking this key southern gateway to the Red Sea could severely disrupt global fuel markets already reeling from conflict.

State Secretary Minister Hints at Surprises for 81st Indonesian Independence Day, Centred in Jakarta

Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi has confirmed that the main celebrations for Indonesia's 81st Independence Day will be held in Jakarta, breaking from recent tradition. He teased that there will be a 'surprise' element in this year's event. The government has also officially launched the commemorative logo, designed by Fajar Novario from Padang, which was selected through a public online poll.

Central Java Capital Market Investors Dominated by Gen Z, Says KSEI

Indonesia's capital market in Central Java is overwhelmingly dominated by young investors, with those under 40 accounting for nearly 83 per cent of the total. The surge is attributed to lower entry barriers and the ease of digital access, allowing students to invest with as little as Rp100,000 via their smartphones. The growth reflects a broader national trend, where young investor numbers have risen by 78.83 per cent since 2026.

Purbaya Reveals Reason for Swapping BI and Finance Ministry Officials After Liquidity Data Polemic

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has clarified that the recent exchange of senior officials between the Ministry of Finance and Bank Indonesia was a strategic move to strengthen coordination following a dispute over liquidity data indicators. The swap saw Deputy Minister Thomas Djiwandono move to the central bank while BI Deputy Governor Juda Agung joined the ministry. Purbaya admitted that the monetary data previously used by the Financial System Stability Committee to gauge banking liquidity was inaccurate, leading to a mismatch between reported ample liquidity and actual conditions on the ground.

Immigration Chief: Travel Ban on Febrie Adriansyah Remains in Effect

The Directorate General of Immigration has confirmed that a 20-day overseas travel ban against former Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah is still active. The ban was initially requested by the Metro Jaya Police in connection with a corruption and money laundering case involving PT Asabri. The Attorney General's Office has since taken over the investigation and is currently processing Adriansyah as a suspect.

Minister Meutya Announces Winners of 700 MHz and 2.6 GHz Frequency Auction

Minister of Communication and Digital Meutya Hafid has officially announced the results of the radio frequency band selection for 700 MHz and 2.6 GHz, finalised in July 2026. The allocation sees XLSmart, Telkomsel, and Indosat securing varying bandwidths across both the low-band and mid-band spectrums. The government expects the completed auction to accelerate national digital transformation and generate up to Rp30 trillion in non-tax state revenue over ten years.

Transmedia Backs Government on Journalistic Work Royalties

Transmedia Chairman Chairul Tanjung has expressed support for the Indonesian government's initiative to regulate royalties for journalistic works under the revised Copyright Law. The meeting with Minister of Law Supratman Andi Agtas focused on ensuring fair compensation for media from digital platforms. The government also reaffirmed its commitment at WIPO to push for fair remuneration mechanisms amid the growing use of news content by AI and digital platforms.

BMKG Warns of Severe Dry Season, Potential Drought in Several Regions Until October

The Indonesian Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has warned that several regions, including southern Sumatra, Java, and Bali, are at risk of drought from July to October 2026. The agency noted that over 80 percent of the country is expected to experience below-normal rainfall during the peak of the dry season, driven by a strong El Niño phenomenon. BMKG has urged local governments and the public to take early anticipatory measures to mitigate the potential impacts.

Indonesia and Chile Push to Optimize IC-CEPA for Trade and Investment Growth

Indonesia and Chile have agreed to enhance the implementation of their bilateral trade agreement, the Indonesia-Chile Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (IC-CEPA), to boost economic growth. Trade Minister Budi Santoso highlighted plans to intensify investment negotiations and foster business-to-business collaboration, while Chile expressed support for Indonesia's OECD and CPTPP accession. Bilateral trade reached USD 226.2 million in the first five months of 2026, with Indonesia enjoying a significant surplus.

Modified-Tank Motorcycle Catches Fire at Tangerang Petrol Station, Police Investigate Fuel Misuse

A motorcycle with a modified fuel tank caught fire at a petrol station in Tangerang, Banten, causing panic but no injuries. Police suspect the vehicle was being used for the illegal siphoning of subsidised Pertalite fuel. Authorities have warned that those found misusing subsidised fuel face up to six years in prison and a fine of Rp60 billion under Indonesia's Oil and Gas Law.

Megawati and Son Prananda Attend Historical Photo Exhibition on the Kudatuli Incident

Former Indonesian President Megawati Soekarnoputri, accompanied by her son Prananda Prabowo, opened a historical photo exhibition in Jakarta commemorating the 30th anniversary of the 27 July 1996 incident, known as Kudatuli. The exhibition traces the nation's political journey and revisits the violent attack on the PDI headquarters that left five dead. The event serves as a reflection on the struggle for democracy during the New Order era.

Komnas HAM Recommends Corruption Be Classified as a Human Rights Violation

Indonesia's National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) has recommended that the planned revision of the Corruption Eradication Law classify corruption as a form of human rights violation. The commission argues that current laws only recognise the state as a victim, ignoring the collective harm caused to citizens through lost education access and damaged public infrastructure. The recommendation calls for legal harmonisation to allow affected communities legal standing to seek accountability and restitution.

Public Works Ministry Receives Rp 21.16 Trillion Boost for Sumatra Road and Irrigation Reconstruction

The Indonesian government has allocated an additional Rp 21.16 trillion to the Ministry of Public Works for post-disaster rehabilitation and reconstruction in Sumatra. The funds, approved in late June 2026, will be directed towards rebuilding essential infrastructure including roads, bridges, and irrigation systems. Despite the recent disbursement, the ministry reports that physical progress has already reached 26.4 percent.

BNN: Regional Government Support Through Grants a Tangible Commitment to Eradicating Drugs

Indonesia's National Narcotics Agency (BNN) has stated that support from regional governments, in the form of land and building grants, represents a tangible commitment to strengthening the agency's institutional capacity. The commitment was highlighted during an audience between BNN Head Komjen Pol. Suyudi Ario Seto and officials from Central Kalimantan Province. The collaboration aims to enhance the effectiveness of drug prevention and eradication efforts across the vast and strategic region.

UAE's ADNOC Greenlights US$6.2 Billion Umm Shaif Gas Project, Echoing Indonesia's Masela Ambitions

Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) has approved a US$6.2 billion investment to develop the Umm Shaif offshore gas field, targeting production to bolster domestic energy security and supply emerging AI and data centre sectors. The project mirrors Indonesia's own efforts to advance the massive Masela Block, which requires an estimated US$20.9 billion investment. Both nations are accelerating gas strategies to meet growing global demand while incorporating carbon capture technology for sustainability.

Micro Business Facilitation Festival in Jember Aims to Upgrade MSMEs

The Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) is holding a facilitation festival in Jember, East Java, to help micro enterprises scale up through improved access to financing and markets. The initiative is part of a national programme spanning ten provinces, offering integrated support including licensing, legal protection, and digital transformation. Local government officials emphasised that empowering MSMEs is a key strategy for medium- to long-term poverty alleviation.

KPK Uncovers IDR 12.4 Billion Money Trail in West Lombok Regent Corruption Case

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has detailed a complex money trail involving West Lombok Regent Lalu Ahmad Zaini, who is accused of receiving IDR 12.4 billion in illicit funds. The money is alleged to have originated from conflicts of interest in procurement and project bribes within the regional government. Investigators are now tracing related assets to recover state losses.

House of Representatives Promises Financial Center Tax Incentives Will Follow Global Regulations

Indonesia's House of Representatives has approved a law establishing the Indonesian International Financial Center, with tax incentives designed to comply with the global minimum tax of 15% for large multinationals. The government is currently drafting implementing regulations and aims for the centre to begin operations in 2026, with potential locations in Bali under consideration. Officials emphasised that while tax facilities will be offered to attract investment, they will adhere to international tax commitments.

West Jakarta Water Resources Agency Revitalises Border Drainage to Tackle 'Eternal Flood'

The West Jakarta Water Resources Sub-agency is revitalising an 800-metre drainage channel in the border area between Petukangan Utara and Joglo to address persistent flooding. The project, which includes widening the channel and installing box culverts, follows public complaints about permanent waterlogging that obscured potholes and caused accidents. The DKI Jakarta Provincial Government aims to permanently resolve the flooding and road damage through coordinated drainage works and subsequent asphalt paving.

Minister of Law Urges Officials to Enhance Public Services

Minister of Law Supratman Andi Agtas has called on officials within the Ministry of Law to improve public service quality through integrity and professional leadership. The directive was issued during the inauguration of new managerial and non-managerial officials. The Minister also expressed appreciation for the outgoing Head of the Human Resources Development Agency and welcomed her successor.

Chinese Firm Invests Rp480 Billion in Central Java, Absorbing 500 Workers

Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi inaugurated PT DKV Printing Indonesia, a Chinese high-tech printing company, in the Kendal Economic Zone with an investment of Rp480.64 billion. The facility has already created approximately 500 jobs and produces labels, packaging, and printing materials for global brands. The governor emphasised that the investment strengthens the province's competitiveness and demonstrates sustained investor confidence amid global geopolitical dynamics.

Bontang City Government Holds Premarital Guidance for Adolescents

The Bontang City Government has initiated a premarital guidance programme for school-age adolescents, aiming to equip them with foundational knowledge for future family life. Officials emphasised that this early investment in character building is crucial for long-term regional development. The programme, which involved 100 students from state schools, is part of a broader effort to foster harmonious families through collaboration between government bodies, religious institutions, and schools.

Coffee, Cocoa, and Tea Prices Now Dictated by the Skies, Difficult to Tame

Global coffee, cocoa, and tea markets are increasingly vulnerable to weather disruptions, with the FAO noting that short-term price movements are now driven more by supply and demand shocks than macroeconomic factors. While coffee prices remain high due to tight global stocks despite improved Brazilian harvests, cocoa has shifted focus to weakening European demand. Tea remains the most stable of the three, though its long-term outlook is also tied to climate resilience in a few key producing nations.

Bandung Police Dismiss Viral Beggar Crime Wave, Assure City Remains Safe

Bandung police have refuted viral social media claims of rampant street crime and begging, stating many reports are hoaxes. Two families falsely portrayed as victims were actually involved in a traffic accident and a premeditated murder case. Authorities have increased nightly patrols and assured the public that the city is secure and under control.

On Purwakarta's Anniversary, Dedi Mulyadi Calls for Ecosystem Protection to Achieve 'Purwakarta Istimewa'

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has urged the people of Purwakarta to safeguard the region's natural environment as the cornerstone of its development. Speaking at the 195th anniversary of Purwakarta, he emphasised that protecting water sources and flora must be integrated with the regency's vision of becoming 'Purwakarta Istimewa'. The governor also highlighted the need to build the character of the younger generation alongside environmental stewardship.

Immigration Hands Over 10 Foreign Nationals in Bogus Investment Case to Tangerang Prosecutors

The Directorate General of Immigration has transferred 10 foreign nationals from Pakistan and Iran to the Tangerang District Prosecutor's Office for allegedly running a fictitious investment scheme. The suspects were found to have fraudulently obtained investor limited stay permits (ITAS) and falsified company documents. The case file has been declared complete, and prosecutors plan to file charges in the Tangerang District Court this week.

RI cuts oil imports by 750,000 bpd due to B50 programme

Indonesia has reduced its oil imports by approximately 250,000 to 300,000 barrels per day following the implementation of the B50 biodiesel mandate, which requires diesel fuel to contain 50 percent palm oil-based biodiesel. The programme is part of a broader government strategy to strengthen national energy independence, with President Prabowo Subianto noting it will keep more spending within the domestic economy. The government is also advancing bioethanol adoption with an initial E10 blend and plans to accelerate construction of new bioethanol plants.

Indonesia's Nutrition Agency Appoints Five New Senior Officials, from Doctor to Prosecutor

Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has inaugurated five new high-ranking officials to fill strategic roles, including the positions of Primary Secretary and Deputy for Monitoring and Supervision. The appointments, formalised by Presidential Decree, aim to strengthen the organisation and optimise the nationwide Free Nutritious Meal programme. The new deputies bring diverse professional backgrounds from the Ministry of Health, the Finance and Development Supervisory Agency (BPKP), the Ministry of Education, and the Attorney General's Office.

Indonesia and Chile Optimise IC-CEPA to Boost Trade and Investment

Indonesia and Chile have committed to optimising their bilateral trade agreement, the IC-CEPA, to enhance trade value and expand market access. Trade Minister Budi Santoso proposed establishing a business council to strengthen business-to-business ties, while Chile expressed support for Indonesia's accession to the CPTPP and OECD. Bilateral trade reached USD 226.2 million in the first five months of 2026, with Indonesia recording a significant surplus.

Directorate General of Immigration Transfers Case Files of 10 Fake Investor Foreign Nationals to Prosecutors

Indonesia's Directorate General of Immigration has handed over the case files of ten foreign nationals accused of being fictitious investors to the Tangerang District Prosecutor's Office. The suspects, comprising eight Pakistanis and two Iraqis, allegedly used falsified notarial deeds to obtain investor visas. Investigations revealed that the companies sponsoring their stay had no physical presence or business activity at their registered addresses.

West Java Boosts Superior Human Resources through Strengthened Primary Healthcare Services

The West Java Provincial Government is reinforcing primary healthcare services as a cornerstone for developing superior human resources. This commitment was underscored by Deputy Governor Erwan Setiawan during the launch of the KITA SEHAT programme, which aims to reform health governance to be more effective, equitable, and sustainable. The initiative is expected to accelerate health transformation across 27 regencies and cities, addressing challenges such as stunting reduction and improving child nutrition.

Ministry of Forestry to Conduct 12-Day Weather Modification Operation in South Sumatra to Curb Forest Fires

Indonesia's Ministry of Forestry is launching a 12-day weather modification operation in South Sumatra from 19 to 30 July 2026 to induce rain and suppress forest and land fires. The operation, supported by the Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) and the Sri Mulyono Herlambang Air Base, aims to increase water availability for firefighting efforts in priority areas. Officials hope the artificial rain will significantly reduce hotspots and aid ground teams in controlling the blazes.

Mataram City Government to Prepare Tax Regulation for Boarding Houses

The Mataram city government is planning to introduce a regulation to levy taxes on boarding house businesses, driven by the proliferation of luxury boarding houses. Mayor Mohan Roliskana stated that the initiative aims to tap into a legitimate source of local revenue, as the city currently only has regulations for the management and supervision of such establishments. Hotel operators have complained that these elite boarding houses, which often offer daily and weekly rates without proper permits, are unfairly competing with licensed hotels and contributing nothing to local taxes.

West Java Provincial Government Supports KITA SEHAT Programme

The West Java Provincial Government has pledged to improve life expectancy through integrated primary healthcare, endorsing the central government's KITA SEHAT programme. The initiative is seen as crucial for accelerating stunting reduction and improving toddler nutrition across the province's 27 regencies and cities. This commitment builds on existing local innovations like the Village Doctor programme to ensure equitable access to healthcare.

Prabowo's Directive: Palace Confirms National Electric Motorcycle to Launch Soon

The Presidential Palace has confirmed that President Prabowo Subianto's plan to launch a domestically produced national electric motorcycle will be realised shortly. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to accelerate the clean energy transition and achieve self-sufficiency in the automotive industry. Officials stated the programme will also help reduce national dependence on fossil fuels and strengthen energy security.

Police Delay Questioning of Student Bomb Maker in Padang Due to Trauma

Police in Padang, West Sumatra, have postponed the questioning of a 17-year-old student who assembled and detonated a homemade bomb at his school, as he is still undergoing psychological rehabilitation. The teenager, a suspected victim of bullying, is currently in a government-provided safe house under police supervision. Authorities revealed he learned to make the explosive device autodidactically from the internet over four months.

House Commission XI: PFII Location to be Stipulated in Government Regulation

The location for Indonesia's planned International Financial Centre (PFII) will be formalised through a Government Regulation, according to a senior lawmaker. The Finance Minister will propose the site to the President, with Bali currently under consideration as a prime candidate due to its popularity with foreign visitors. The government is assessing several areas based on feasibility, capital adequacy, and human resource readiness.

KPK Issues 2 New Investigation Warrants in Customs and Excise Case

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has issued two new investigation warrants linked to a graft case within the Directorate General of Customs and Excise. The warrants stem from evidence presented in the trial of Blueray Cargo Group executives, where it was revealed that Rp91 billion in bribes were distributed. One warrant targets a specific customs official, while the second is a general warrant for a separate cluster of recipients, including a former director general allegedly receiving Rp21 billion.

Free Nutritious Meal Programme Resumes, Vegetable and Chicken Prices Rise

The resumption of Indonesia's Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme after the school holidays has triggered a sharp increase in vegetable and chicken prices in Purwakarta, West Java. Cucumber prices more than doubled, while other staples like green beans, potatoes, and cabbage also saw significant hikes. Traders attribute the surge to heightened demand from the programme combined with reduced supply due to the dry season.

ASEAN Food Safety Deal Could Boost Indonesia's Trade Balance, Says Trade Minister

Trade Minister Budi Santoso has stated that the ASEAN Food Safety Regulatory Framework Agreement (AFSRFA) could potentially increase Indonesia's food sector trade balance by up to USD 634.83 million. The agreement aims to harmonise food safety standards across the region, reducing technical barriers and compliance costs. The government is preparing several measures, including regulatory alignment and digital traceability systems, to ensure the deal's effective implementation.

Belarus to supply dairy products for Indonesia's free nutritious meal programme

Belarus has signed contracts to supply dairy products, including skimmed milk powder, to support Indonesia's Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. The first shipments have already been dispatched to Indonesian partners, with a target of exporting 20,000 tonnes of milk powder by the end of 2026. The cooperation follows a state visit and business forum where a broader agricultural partnership worth up to 500 million dollars was discussed.

Pertamina's Role in Supporting the Development of a New Hydrogen 'Fuel' Ecosystem

Indonesian state energy firm Pertamina is advancing a national hydrogen ecosystem, developing multiple pilot projects across the archipelago. The initiatives range from hydrogen refuelling stations in Jakarta to production hubs in Sumatra, Sulawesi, and Papua, utilising geothermal, solar, and natural gas resources. The company aims to establish economically viable production by sharing infrastructure with other state assets like PLN.

Deputy Cooperatives Minister Urges Gakoptindo to Strengthen Imported Soybean Supply Chain

Deputy Cooperatives Minister Farida Farichah has called on the Indonesian Tempe Tahu Producers Cooperative (Gakoptindo) to reinforce the supply chain for imported soybeans to protect artisans from economic volatility. She emphasised that nearly all levels of society rely on affordable tempe and tofu as a source of protein, making raw material availability a critical issue. The government pledged continued support to address the sector's dependence on imported soybeans.

Ten Stab Wounds Found on TNI Soldier Murdered in South Tangerang

Police have revealed that Indonesian Army soldier Arif Budi Sampurna suffered ten stab wounds in a murder in Tangerang Regency. Four suspects have been arrested less than 24 hours after the victim's body was discovered on a roadside. The victim's mobile phone, initially missing, has been recovered by authorities.

Indramayu Forest Unit Tightens Security to Prevent Forest Fires During Dry Season

Perum Perhutani's Indramayu Forest Management Unit (KPH) has intensified patrols and security measures in the Cikawung forest area to mitigate the risk of forest and land fires during the current dry season. The initiative involves joint patrols with the military and local forest community groups, alongside public education campaigns. Officials emphasise that community involvement is crucial for early detection and maintaining the sustainability of the forest ecosystem.

Pentagon Accused of Concealing Dozens of US Troop Injuries in Iran War

The Pentagon is facing allegations that it failed to disclose dozens of injuries sustained by American service members in attacks by Iran in Jordan. Officials claim operational security concerns justified withholding details of the strikes, which damaged helicopters and wounded personnel. The controversy has intensified scrutiny over the transparency of the US military's reporting on the escalating conflict.

Investor Asal Tiongkok Bidik Jepara, Pabrik Tas Baru Segera Dibangun di Sengonbugel

Investor penanaman modal asing (PMA) asal Tiongkok berencana membangun pabrik tas di Desa Sengonbugel, Kabupaten Jepara, setelah memperoleh Nomor Induk Berusaha (NIB). Meskipun groundbreaking telah dilakukan, Dinas Penanaman Modal dan Pelayanan Terpadu Satu Pintu (DPMPTSP) Jepara menegaskan bahwa investor masih harus menyelesaikan sejumlah tahapan perizinan, termasuk dokumen Analisis Mengenai Dampak Lingkungan (Amdal), sebelum konstruksi dan operasional pabrik dapat dimulai. Secara keseluruhan, aktivitas investasi di Jepara dinilai masih positif dengan dominasi pengajuan NIB dari sektor UMKM, perdagangan, dan jasa.

Motorcycle Gang Convoy Brandishing Sharp Weapons Alarms Cimahi Residents

A group of motorcyclists armed with sharp weapons sparked fear among residents and road users in Cimahi, West Java, after a video of their convoy went viral. The incident, which occurred in the early hours of Sunday morning, has been linked to a recent spate of street crime and gang clashes in the Greater Bandung area. Police have confirmed they are investigating the footage and pursuing the perpetrators.

Aceh Accelerates Post-Disaster Recovery with Additional 2026 Regional Transfer Funds

The Aceh government is fast-tracking 766 projects funded by an additional Rp824.9 billion in regional transfer funds to support post-hydrometeorological disaster rehabilitation. As of mid-July 2026, 346 physical projects are underway, with procurement completed for 447 packages. The initiative aims to restore infrastructure, improve public services, and stimulate local economic growth.

Densus 88 Arrests Suspected Terrorists in Ciamis and Lampung

Indonesia's counter-terrorism unit, Densus 88, has arrested two suspected terrorists in Ciamis, West Java, and Lampung. The arrests are linked to an investigation into online propaganda, recruitment, and incitement activities. Police are conducting intensive examinations to determine the roles of the suspects, identified by the initials AR and H.

Travel Ban on Former Jampidsus Febrie Adriansyah Remains in Effect Despite New Investigation Order

The Directorate General of Immigration has confirmed that the overseas travel ban on former junior attorney general for special crimes, Febrie Adriansyah, remains in force. This is despite the Attorney General's Office issuing a new investigation order for his case. Immigration authorities are awaiting a potential new travel ban request from prosecutors, while the existing 20-day ban requested by the police continues to apply.

Drought Begins to Hit Majalengka, Pilangsari Residents Forced to Hunt for Clean Water

Residents of Pilangsari Village in Majalengka, West Java, are facing a clean water crisis as wells run dry at the onset of the dry season. Villagers are now forced to travel up to a kilometre to collect water from communal pump wells, leading to long queues. Local authorities have acknowledged that the PDAM piped water network has not yet reached all households and often experiences supply disruptions during drought conditions.

BGN Announces New Echelon I Officials, Including Former AGO Spokesperson Ketut Sumedana

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has appointed five new senior officials, including former Attorney General's Office spokesperson Ketut Sumedana, to key oversight roles. The appointments, made directly by President Prabowo Subianto, aim to strengthen governance and prevent past issues in the agency's food distribution programmes. The new deputies bring experience from health, auditing, education, and law enforcement to bolster the national free meals initiative.

Police Reveal Uncle's Devious Tactics in Raping Niece in Bekasi

Police in Bekasi, West Java, have detailed the methods used by a 42-year-old man, identified as W, to sexually assault his 21-year-old niece over a period of seven years. The perpetrator reportedly lured the victim with promises of money and food, while also showing her pornographic videos. Authorities are still searching for two other suspects, including the victim's biological father.

West Java Governor Proposes Armed Officers at Crime Hotspots Amid Bandung Raya Muggings Surge

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has proposed deploying armed officers to crime-prone areas across Bandung Raya in response to a spate of violent street muggings. The governor has coordinated with the provincial police chief to strengthen security measures and urged communities to revive neighbourhood patrols. Concurrently, a Bandung city councillor is pressing the municipal government to urgently repair broken streetlights, linking dark roads to the rise in criminal activity.

Oracle's Larry Ellison Loses Nearly Half His Wealth as Shares Plunge

Larry Ellison's fortune has plummeted by nearly half in a month, dropping him to the eighth richest person globally. The Oracle chairman's wealth fell by US$8 billion in a single day as the company's shares continued a steep decline driven by investor concerns over massive AI and cloud spending. Oracle's market capitalisation has shed US$494 billion since its peak, with S&P Global downgrading its credit rating due to the financial strain of its expansion plans.

Central Java Governor Hopes Tegal Business Forum Generates Investment for the Region

Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi has urged the Tegal Business Forum to produce concrete investment agreements and business collaborations rather than being a mere ceremonial event. He stressed the need for regional leaders to act as marketing managers to attract private sector growth, especially given the province's limited fiscal capacity. The forum aims to leverage Tegal's maritime, trade, and culinary strengths to establish the city as a new economic hub.

KAI and INKA Begin Strategic Integration to Strengthen National Railway Industry Ecosystem

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) and PT Industri Kereta Api (INKA) have launched a strategic integration process to align the operator's long-term rolling stock needs with the manufacturer's production capabilities. The initiative aims to build a robust national railway manufacturing ecosystem, with KAI projecting a need for 156 electric train sets by 2040. The collaboration is expected to enhance technological mastery, production capacity, and service quality to support Indonesia's mobility growth.

Ministry of Law: Applications for Renunciation of Indonesian Citizenship Filed Online

The Ministry of Law's Yogyakarta office has confirmed that all applications to renounce Indonesian citizenship must now be submitted online through a centralised system managed by the Directorate General of General Legal Administration (AHU). The process, governed by Law No. 12 of 2006, carries a fee of Rp3.5 million and has significant legal consequences for applicants, including changes to land ownership and political rights. The AHU also reported 438 clearance processes for loss of citizenship between 2024 and 2026.

ASEAN: Strategic Center of Gravity in US–China Rivalry

The long-term balance of power in the Indo-Pacific may hinge on Southeast Asia's strategic choices, as China works to prevent a unified regional coalition capable of balancing its influence. Beijing leverages its economic dominance and ASEAN's preference for non-alignment to stymie consensus against it, while the United States must move beyond military deterrence to deepen economic and diplomatic engagement. The article argues that preserving ASEAN states' independent decision-making space is critical, as growing economic dependence on China could see neutrality evolve into de facto alignment.

Gus Kikin Ready to Accept Mandate to Run for PBNU Chairman

KH Abdul Hakim Mahfudz, known as Gus Kikin, has declared his readiness to stand as a candidate for the chairmanship of Indonesia's largest Islamic organisation, Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU), during its upcoming congress in Jombang. The East Java PWNU chairman stated he accepted the mandate following a consolidation meeting with regional branch leaders, despite initially not seeking the position. He emphasised the importance of maintaining the organisation's traditions of unity and togetherness ahead of the leadership transition.

KPK: West Lombok Regent LAZ Received Rp12.4 Billion from Corrupt Practices

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has alleged that West Lombok Regent Lalu Ahmad Zaini received a total of Rp12.4 billion from corrupt activities. The funds reportedly comprised Rp10.8 billion from conflicts of interest in procurement and Rp1.6 billion in bribes. The case involves the manipulation of local government projects through a 'flag-borrowing' scheme and direct appointments.

Eight Out of 10 Children Prefer Confiding in Friends Over Parents

A survey in Central Java has revealed that only 20 per cent of children choose their parents as a confidant when facing problems, with the vast majority preferring to talk to friends. Minister of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection Arifatul Choiri Fauzi highlighted the findings as a warning sign of a communication gap within Indonesian families. She urged parents to build closer, non-judgemental relationships with their children to ensure they feel safe and heard at home.

El Tari Kupang Airport Pushes for Flights to Darwin and Timor Leste

El Tari International Airport in Kupang has announced its readiness to open direct international flight routes to Timor Leste and Darwin, Australia. The initiative aims to strengthen East Nusa Tenggara's connectivity and stimulate regional economic growth through increased mobility, tourism, and investment. Airport management confirmed that both infrastructure and cross-agency coordination, including with immigration authorities, are already in place.

30% Economy Train Discount Used by 1.30 Million Passengers During School Holidays

State-owned railway operator PT KAI reported that 1.3 million passengers utilised a government-backed 30% fare discount on commercial economy trains during the 20 June to 5 July 2026 school holiday period. The scheme, provided through the Ministry of Transportation, contributed to an overall 3.75% increase in total passengers compared to the same period in 2025. The busiest routes connected major cities in Java, with Pasar Senen Station in Jakarta recording the highest passenger volumes.

Denpasar and Timor-Leste explore creative economy and tourism collaboration

The Denpasar city government is exploring strategic cooperation with Timor-Leste across multiple sectors, including the creative economy, tourism, and trade. The initiative was discussed during a meeting between Denpasar's deputy mayor and Timor-Leste's trade and industry attaché, with both parties expressing optimism for a concrete agreement. The collaboration aims to strengthen regional development through international partnerships and deliver tangible benefits to both communities.

AGO Issues New Investigation Orders, Immigration Confirms Febrie Remains on Travel Ban

The Directorate General of Immigration has confirmed that the travel ban against former Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes, Febrie Adriansyah, remains in effect despite his case being transferred to the Attorney General's Office (AGO). The AGO has issued three new investigation orders related to the corruption and money laundering allegations involving Febrie, including cases linked to PT Krakatau Steel, a PLTU coal procurement blackout, and ASABRI. Immigration authorities stated they are awaiting further instructions from AGO investigators regarding an extension once the current 20-day ban expires.

West Java DPRD Prepares Bylaw to Protect Families from Sexual Deviance

The West Java Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) is prioritising a new bylaw aimed at protecting families and society from what it terms sexual deviance. The legislative move is driven by rising social and health concerns, including a reported increase in HIV and syphilis cases. The proposed regulation seeks to provide a legal framework to strengthen family resilience and ensure public protection.

Drought Hits Merapi Slopes in Klaten, 10,858 Residents in Four Villages Face Clean Water Crisis

A severe drought on the slopes of Mount Merapi in Klaten Regency has left 10,858 people across four villages without access to clean water. The local disaster mitigation agency (BPBD) has been delivering water daily since mid-June to alleviate the crisis. The prolonged dry season, exacerbated by El Niño, has dried up local water sources, severely impacting daily life in the affected communities.

PLN Reveals It Produces Hundreds of Tonnes of Petrol Substitute

Indonesia's state electricity company PLN has disclosed it produces 203 tonnes of hydrogen annually, with a surplus of 130 tonnes that could be used to fuel vehicles. The firm is collaborating with Pertamina to utilise existing hydrogen refuelling stations and is in talks with global automakers to supply hydrogen-powered buses. The initiative supports the government's push for a domestic hydrogen ecosystem and cleaner energy alternatives.

Three Indonesian Mobile Operators Secure 700 MHz and 2.6 GHz Spectrum in Auction

Indonesia's Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs has awarded spectrum in the 700 MHz and 2.6 GHz bands to Telkomsel, XL Axiata, and Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison following a transparent auction. The allocation is intended to accelerate the expansion of 4G services to over 500 villages and achieve 51% 5G network coverage within five years. Minister Meutya Hafid stated the rollout aims to progressively increase mobile broadband speeds to 100 Mbps by 2029.

OJK prepares three focuses for developing sharia financial literacy and inclusion

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has outlined three strategic priorities to boost sharia financial literacy and inclusion, emphasising data-driven approaches, digitalisation, and consumer protection. The initiative was launched during the first 2026 meeting of the Sharia Financial Literacy and Inclusion Working Group (Pokja LIKS). The OJK aims to convert public understanding into greater participation in sharia financial products while ensuring innovation is balanced with market conduct supervision.

As Waste Mountains Grow, It's Time for Indonesia to Implement Eco Modulation

Indonesia's plastic waste crisis is deepening, with annual generation reaching 10 million tonnes and recycling rates stagnating for most packaging types. The high recycling rate for PET bottles is cited as a success story built on decades of industry-led collection incentives. The article argues that strengthening Extended Producer Responsibility with eco modulation is now essential to tackle the crisis from upstream design to downstream recycling.

150 Street Children and Scavengers to Tour State Palace for National Children's Day

The Indonesian government will invite 150 vulnerable children, including street children and the children of scavengers, to tour the State Palace in Jakarta as part of the 42nd National Children's Day celebrations. The visit aims to provide a memorable learning and recreational experience while building their self-confidence. The main commemorative event will be held in a decentralised manner across the country, with the peak celebration taking place in the Riau Islands Province.

President Prabowo to Inaugurate 1,500 TNI-Polri Junior Officers at Merdeka Palace Tomorrow

President Prabowo Subianto is set to preside over the Prasetya Perwira ceremony at Merdeka Palace, commissioning approximately 1,500 new junior officers into the TNI and Polri. The ceremony marks the formal transition of military and police academy graduates into their roles as second lieutenants and police inspectors. The event underscores the government's continued focus on strengthening the nation's defence and security apparatus.

Violence Against Women and Children Surges in East Kalimantan, Prompting Calls for Holistic Protection

East Kalimantan's Rapid Response Team for the Protection of Women and Children (TRC PPA) reports a worrying rise in violence cases, with children and women being the primary victims. The team has recorded 40 cases so far, including sexual violence perpetrated by family members and religious teachers. Authorities are urging a holistic, cross-sectoral approach involving families, schools, and government to break the cycle of abuse and ensure victim protection.

BGN Introduces Five New Officials to Strengthen Institution

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has appointed five new high-ranking officials to bolster its institutional capacity and refine the Free Nutritious Meal Programme. The appointments, signed off by the President, include deputies for systems, supply, promotion, and monitoring. The agency aims to enhance coordination and governance to ensure the strategic programme delivers broader public benefits.

Riau Police Chief Praises Swift Response to Pekanbaru Floods

Riau Police Chief Inspector General Herry Heryawan commended the rapid response of traffic police and the Pekanbaru city government in managing severe flooding that disrupted traffic across the city. Heavy rainfall caused significant inundation on major thoroughfares, prompting a coordinated effort to direct vehicles and assist stranded motorists. The police chief emphasised that cross-sector collaboration is essential to mitigate the impact of extreme weather and ensure public safety.

MotoGP Mandalika 2026 Offers Up to 50% Ticket Discount for NTB Residents

The Mandalika Grand Prix Association is offering substantial ticket discounts of up to 50 per cent for residents of West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) for the 2026 MotoGP event. The initiative, supported by partners including Pertamina and the Ministry of Youth and Sports, aims to boost local participation and attract investment to the region. The race will feature Indonesian riders Veda Ega Pratama and Mario Aji competing in Moto3 and Moto2 respectively.

East Java BPBD Records 15 Forest and Land Fires During 2026 Dry Season

The East Java Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) has documented 15 forest and land fires since the onset of the dry season, scorching nearly 110 hectares. Blitar Regency suffered the largest blaze at 50 hectares, and officials warn the risk will escalate as the region enters the peak dry period. Authorities are urging the public to avoid open burning and to report any fire sightings immediately.

US Military Casualties Rise as Pentagon Plans Wider War Against Iran

Tensions between the United States and Iran have escalated sharply following a weekend of attacks that killed at least three more American service members, bringing the total death toll to 17 or 18. The Pentagon is reportedly planning a broader military campaign, though experts warn that depleted air defence stocks and combat damage could limit the scope of operations. Despite the violence, diplomatic signals have emerged, with Qatar proposing a new negotiation initiative and Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicating openness to a diplomatic solution.

Health Ministry Urges Regional Governments to Complete Self-Managed TB Tracing Documents

The Indonesian Ministry of Health has called on regional governments to promptly complete the necessary documentation for self-managed tuberculosis (TBC) contact tracing. Deputy Health Minister Benjamin Paulus Octavianus stressed that these documents are crucial for optimising efforts to reduce the country's high TB burden. The initiative is part of a broader national strategy, with a large-scale integrated screening programme set to begin in Medan.

President to Directly Appoint Governor of Indonesia's New Financial Hub

The Indonesian House of Representatives has passed the bill establishing the Indonesia International Financial Centre (PFII), granting President Prabowo Subianto the authority to directly appoint its governor without a parliamentary fit and proper test. The government is currently evaluating several locations, including options in Bali, for the special economic zone.

Indonesia plans 40,000 fish farms to boost protein self-sufficiency

The Indonesian government is shifting its food security focus from carbohydrates to protein by planning fish farms in 40,000 villages. Coordinating Food Minister Hasan announced the 'Red and White Fishermen's Village' programme and thematic aquaculture projects to meet domestic demand and position the country as a major global exporter of fish and shrimp. The initiative aims to address current production shortfalls, such as the inability to fully meet Saudi Arabia's demand for pangasius, by developing various commodities suited to regional potential.

East Java Records Highest National KDKMP Transaction Value at IDR 24.02 Billion

East Java has recorded the highest transaction value for the Village/Sub-district Cooperatives (KDKMP) programme nationally, reaching IDR 24.02 billion. The achievement was highlighted by the Minister of Cooperatives, who noted the province's rapid establishment of 8,494 cooperative legal entities. Tuban Regency emerged as the top-performing district, with its four cooperatives' accumulated transactions surpassing the total of several other provinces combined.

DPR Ensures Bill Deliberations Continue During Recess to Meet Public Needs

The Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) has confirmed that deliberations on several strategic bills will continue during the recess period. Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad stated that this move aims to ensure public needs are met without delay, with priority legislation including the Asset Forfeiture Bill and the One Data Bill. The DPR also plans to gather public and stakeholder input on the Labour and Election Bills during this time.

Bogor Regency Government: Cijurey Dam to Irrigate Farmlands During Dry Season

The Bogor Regency Government has announced that the Cijurey Dam is being prioritised to provide irrigation for agricultural lands frequently affected by drought during the dry season. The dam, which covers 203.9 hectares, is also projected to reduce flooding by up to 59.33 percent. Authorities are pushing to accelerate the completion of this and the Cibeet Dam to 2027, ahead of the original 2028 target.

Prabowo Seeks Extensive Input Before Appointing New Jampidsus to Replace Febrie Adriansyah

President Prabowo Subianto is consulting widely before naming a new Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes (Jampidsus) following the implication of his predecessor, Febrie Adriansyah, in major corruption and money laundering cases. The appointment is the President's prerogative, but the State Secretary Minister confirmed Prabowo is gathering assessments and opinions from various parties. The move comes as the Attorney General's Office takes over investigations into cases involving PT Asabri, PT Krakatau Steel, and a coal supply procurement project.

Civil Coalition Rejects Involvement of Village Supervisory NCOs in Tax Oversight

A civil society coalition has condemned a Finance Ministry policy involving military village supervisory officers (Babinsa) in tax compliance monitoring, arguing it blurs the line between civilian administration and defence. The group warns the move could intimidate small business owners, farmers, and informal workers, shifting tax compliance from a voluntary approach to a security-based one. They are urging the government to revoke the policy and uphold the principles of civil supremacy and taxpayer data privacy.

Depok Government Normalises Pesanggrahan River to Tackle Flooding

The Depok City Government has commenced the widening and normalisation of the Pesanggrahan River to mitigate severe flooding in western parts of the city. The bottleneck, caused by a 30-metre high pile of waste from the Cipayung landfill, has reduced the river's capacity and turned surrounding areas into floodplains. The Public Works and Spatial Planning Agency has deployed water task force personnel and heavy excavators to deepen the channel and restore its ecological function.

Interest Rate War Looms, Indonesian Citizens Could Be Squeezed

Economists warn that tight liquidity among mid-sized Indonesian banks could trigger a deposit rate war, potentially limiting their ability to lower lending rates. The uneven distribution of liquidity, concentrated in larger banks, is forcing smaller institutions to offer more competitive rates to retain funds amid a high benchmark interest rate environment.

West Java Official: Strong Character Built Through Simple Daily Habits

West Java Regional Secretary Herman Suryatman stated that character building for students should begin with simple domestic activities like sweeping and doing laundry, not just ceremonial events. The remarks were made during a province-wide Ecological Action event involving over 343,000 new high school students. The initiative aims to embed environmental awareness and personal responsibility as part of the 'Pancawaluya' character education programme.

Palace Responds to Public Scrutiny of Public Works Minister's Communication Style

The Presidential Palace has acknowledged public criticism regarding the communication style of Public Works Minister Dody Hanggodo, stating it will serve as a note for internal coordination and improvement. Minister Hanggodo attributed his informal manner to his private sector background and East Javanese origins, while welcoming the criticism as constructive feedback.

BRIN promotes spirulina to boost sustainable aquaculture

Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) is championing spirulina as a high-protein, sustainable feed ingredient to advance the nation's aquaculture sector. The microalgae, which contains up to 65% protein, offers superior nutritional value and its biomass residue can be fully utilised for fish and livestock feed, addressing food security challenges. With the global spirulina market projected to reach US$897.61 million by 2027, BRIN sees significant economic potential for expanding domestic production beyond the current 108-tonne annual capacity in Central Java.

Seven Victims Identified in Grand Polonia Medan Luxury House Explosion

Search and rescue teams are still working to find two missing individuals following a massive explosion at a luxury residence in Medan's Grand Polonia housing complex. The blast, which occurred on Monday afternoon, has so far resulted in one confirmed death and four survivors, with initial investigations pointing to a potential underground gas leak.

Emergency of Corrupt Regional Heads: KPPOD Confirms High Salaries Will Not Be the Solution

The Regional Autonomy Monitoring Committee (KPPOD) has stated that raising officials' salaries will not curb the rampant corruption among regional heads in Indonesia. The organisation is urging the central government to undertake comprehensive reforms of the political system, governance, and oversight mechanisms. KPPOD argues that the root causes lie in high political costs and weak party cadre development, not inadequate remuneration.

Online Scam 'Empires' Siphon Rp 2,053 Trillion, Proliferate Near Indonesia

Transnational cyber scam syndicates have defrauded victims in the Asia-Pacific region of up to US$114.1 billion in 2025, a sum exceeding the GDP of several nations. A UNODC report warns that these criminal networks, largely rooted in Southeast Asia, are evolving faster than law enforcement can respond, employing franchise-like models and exploiting human trafficking victims. The syndicates are now expanding globally, relocating to jurisdictions with weak governance and preparing to deploy more sophisticated agentic AI for fraud and money laundering.

BGN Introduces Five New Deputies to Improve Free Nutritious Meal Programme Governance

Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has appointed five new deputies to strengthen the management of the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) Programme. The appointments, signed by President Prabowo Subianto, aim to ensure the programme's budget is managed effectively, efficiently, transparently, and accountably. The new officials bring expertise from health, law, and public policy backgrounds.

Indonesia launches biodiversity reports to protect natural wealth

Indonesia has launched a series of biodiversity reports to guide conservation efforts and inform the 2025-2045 Indonesian Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan. The reports, developed with several ministries and German support, provide a scientific basis for integrating biodiversity management into the nation's long-term development agenda. Officials stressed that understanding and preserving natural capital is essential for food, water, and energy security as well as driving the green and blue economies towards the Golden Indonesia 2045 vision.

Bekasi Regency Completes Transfer of Tirta Bhagasasi Assets to City Government

The Bekasi Regency government has finalised the handover of its remaining clean water service assets to Bekasi City, concluding a multi-year separation process. The transfer of the final two branch offices means the city's water utility, Tirta Patriot, now controls all eight service areas previously managed by the regency's Perumda Tirta Bhagasasi. The regency received a total compensation of Rp155 billion for the assets, though it loses approximately 80,000 customers.

Factors Influencing Children's Mental Health Highlighted by IDAI

The Indonesian Paediatric Society (IDAI) has highlighted that parenting styles, peer environments, and social media use are key factors affecting children's mental health. The organisation urges parents to create a warm and affectionate home atmosphere to mitigate risks. The statement follows a recent incident in Padang where a 17-year-old student, reportedly a victim of bullying, detonated a low-explosive homemade bomb at his school.

Pertamina Strengthens Efforts to Develop National Hydrogen Ecosystem

State-owned energy giant Pertamina is intensifying its push to build a national hydrogen ecosystem by enhancing governance and infrastructure. The company is pursuing collaborations with stakeholders like the Energy Ministry and PLN, while developing hydrogen projects tailored to regional energy sources such as solar, geothermal, and biogas. These initiatives aim to bolster Indonesia's energy security and independence.

KPK Issues Two New Investigation Warrants in Customs Corruption Case, Names New Suspect

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has issued two new investigation warrants (sprindik) in the ongoing corruption case at the Directorate General of Customs and Excise. One warrant names a new suspect from the customs cluster, while the second is a general warrant pending the collection of sufficient evidence. The case originated from a sting operation and has already seen several private sector and customs officials prosecuted, with some receiving prison sentences.

CT Group Signs Technology Cooperation Agreement with Bappenas

Vietnam's CT Group has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Indonesia's Ministry of National Development Planning (Bappenas) to collaborate on strategic technology and infrastructure projects. The partnership will focus on developing Digital Twin technology, Low Altitude Economy ecosystems, and sustainable infrastructure. Both parties will proceed with technical studies and regulatory preparations before the phased implementation of the projects.

Aceh Police Confirm Robber Officer Used Service Weapon

Aceh Regional Police have confirmed that the firearm used by a police officer to rob a gold shop in South Aceh was an official weapon belonging to the National Police. The officer, identified by the initials MZ, is currently undergoing criminal investigation and will face an internal code of ethics hearing. Preliminary investigations suggest the motive was driven by personal economic and financial problems.

Forest and Land Fire in Gunung Putri, Garut, Scorches One Hectare

A forest and land fire in the Gunung Putri area of Garut, West Java, has destroyed at least one hectare of vegetation. Authorities attributed the blaze to a prolonged dry season and strong winds, which caused the fire to spread rapidly through scrubland and cornfields. A joint task force successfully extinguished the fire, and no casualties were reported.

Subsidised Home Sales Drop 24%, Multiple Factors Blamed Including SLIK

Sales of subsidised homes in Indonesia fell by 24.3% year-on-year in the first half of 2026, reaching only 91,531 units. The decline is attributed to a combination of supply-side issues, such as licensing hurdles and rising material costs, and demand-side pressures including weakened purchasing power and credit approval difficulties linked to the SLIK system.

Ministry of Hajj and Umrah Strengthens Inclusive Hajj Through Service Standards and Training

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah is enhancing its inclusive Hajj framework by developing technical regulations, improving data collection on pilgrims with disabilities, and integrating disability service standards into the training curriculum for Hajj officers. The initiative aims to ensure accessibility and equal treatment for elderly and disabled pilgrims at every stage of the pilgrimage, from pre-departure guidance to services in Saudi Arabia.

West Lombok Regent Lalu Ahmad Zaini Arrested by KPK, Seen in Orange Vest

West Lombok Regent Lalu Ahmad Zaini has been arrested by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) in a sting operation. He was paraded wearing an orange detainee vest and handcuffs, alongside two other individuals, including a company director. The arrest is linked to alleged bribery involving various projects within the West Lombok regency administration.

Golkar: Citizens Have the Right to Form a Shadow Cabinet

Golkar Party Secretary-General Muhammad Sarmuji stated that citizens are entitled to form a Shadow Cabinet as a platform for criticism, though he questioned its follow-up mechanisms compared to official institutions like the DPR. The civil society coalition established the Shadow Cabinet to provide policy alternatives and oversight, citing the absence of a formal opposition to President Prabowo's government.

Vietnam's CT Group Explores High-Tech Partnerships with UI, PTDI, and ITB

Vietnam's CT Group is exploring strategic technology partnerships with several Indonesian institutions, including the University of Indonesia, PT Dirgantara Indonesia, and the Bandung Institute of Technology. The collaborations aim to advance research in areas such as digital twins, unmanned aerial vehicles, and artificial intelligence, while also focusing on human capital development. The initiative seeks to bridge academic excellence with industrial application to support Indonesia's national development priorities.

Bogor Regency Government Drafts Roadmap for Regional Carbon Market Development

The Bogor Regency administration is developing a roadmap to enter the carbon market, aiming to turn its greening programmes into a source of green financing. The initiative involves measuring carbon absorption from the regency's mass tree-planting efforts and preparing for future trading on the national carbon exchange. Officials view this as a strategy to support a low-emission economy while generating long-term benefits for the community.

West Java Government Concludes Pancawaluya 2026 School Orientation with Ecology Action

The West Java Provincial Government has concluded its Pancawaluya 2026 school orientation programme (MPLS) with a province-wide 'Ecology Action'. The symbolic event, held at the Cikutra Heroes' Cemetery, involved over 343,000 new students across 882 state schools. Officials emphasised that the initiative is designed to instil environmental awareness as a daily habit and a core part of character education, not merely a one-off activity.

Coordinating Minister Zulhas Affirms 'Kampung Nelayan Merah Putih' Programme to Strengthen Fishermen's Welfare

Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan has emphasised that the 'Kampung Nelayan Merah Putih' programme aims to boost the welfare of Indonesian fishermen by improving infrastructure and bargaining power. The government plans to build 1,369 such integrated fishing villages by 2026 to prevent fishermen from being forced to sell their catch cheaply to middlemen. The initiative includes facilities such as auction halls, cold storage, and ice factories to connect fishermen directly with broader markets.

Tax Office Enlists Village Military Officers for Oversight, Deputy Speaker Warns Against 'Terrorising' Taxpayers

Deputy Speaker of Indonesia's House of Representatives, Saan Mustopa, has cautioned the Directorate General of Taxes against using village-level military and police officers to monitor taxpayers, warning the policy could intimidate the public and harm the business climate. His remarks follow the issuance of a circular that explicitly includes Babinsa and Bhabinkamtibmas officers in building a tax information network. Mustopa urged the tax authority to evaluate the policy and maintain a persuasive, educational approach rather than a repressive one.

East Java PWNU Officially Tasks Gus Kikin to Run for PBNU Chairman

The East Java Regional Board of Nahdlatul Ulama (PWNU) has formally endorsed its chairman, KH Abdul Hakim Mahfudz, known as Gus Kikin, as a candidate for the chairmanship of the national executive board (PBNU) at the upcoming 35th Congress in Jombang. The decision, backed by all 45 branch boards in the province, was based on his commitment to returning the organisation to its foundational principles and his vision for more harmonious governance. Gus Kikin's extensive leadership experience and economic independence were also cited as key assets for the role.

Drought Worsens in West Java, Bogor Regency Hardest Hit

A severe drought affecting West Java has left 130,014 residents struggling with water shortages, with Bogor Regency identified as the worst-impacted area. The Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) has distributed approximately 1.2 million litres of clean water and is prioritising aid to high-impact zones. Authorities are also urging water conservation and preparing mitigation strategies, including well drilling, to address the escalating crisis.

Xi Jinping Takes Direct Role, 'Selling' AI to Developing Nations

Chinese President Xi Jinping has personally stepped in to promote artificial intelligence cooperation with developing nations, offering thousands of training opportunities. The initiative aims to expand China's technological influence across the Global South, including Southeast Asia, the Arab League, and the African Union. The move comes amid heightened technological tensions with the United States, which has imposed export controls to limit China's access to advanced chips.

China's AI classroom revolution begins to bear fruit

China is deploying artificial intelligence across its vast education system to deliver personalised learning for over 220 million students, marking a shift from expanding access to improving quality. AI agents are now analysing student data to generate tailored exercises, while teachers refine the content and focus on mentorship. The government's 'AI Plus Education' action plan aims to embed the technology across all levels of schooling, though educators caution it remains a tool to augment, not replace, human guidance.

Suspected Gas Explosion Destroys Luxury Home in Medan's Polonia, Damages Five Neighbouring Houses

A powerful explosion, suspected to be caused by a gas leak, levelled a luxury residence in the Grand Polonia Complex in Medan, North Sumatra, on Monday afternoon. The blast injured at least two people, including a child and an online motorcycle taxi courier, while three others are feared trapped inside the debris. The incident also caused significant damage to five adjacent homes, shattering windows and canopies within a 50-metre radius.

One in Three Indonesian Adolescents Suffers from Mental Health Disorders

A national survey reveals that 15.5 million Indonesian adolescents, or one in three, experience mental health problems, with depression being the most prevalent condition. A paediatric specialist warns that only 10 per cent of affected young people seek medical help, highlighting critically low awareness and access to care. Parents are urged to monitor early warning signs such as persistent low mood, sleep difficulties, and anxiety symptoms.

Presidential Palace Responds to Possibility of TNI-Polri Budget Cuts

The Presidential Palace has clarified that potential budget cuts for the Indonesian Military (TNI) and National Police (Polri) are only a possibility, contingent on the need for fiscal efficiency. Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi stated that the current fiscal situation is stable and adjustments would only be made if necessary. This follows President Prabowo Subianto's earlier remarks suggesting defence and police budgets could be reduced to combat poverty.

Banten Provincial Government Welcomes Vietnamese Investors' Interest

The Banten provincial government has welcomed interest from Vietnamese entrepreneurs planning to make the region a premier investment hub in Indonesia. Governor Andra Soni highlighted Banten's strategic location bordering Jakarta and its ready infrastructure, including ports, airports, and toll roads. Initial discussions indicate strong Vietnamese interest in manufacturing, property, and dairy farming, partly driven by Indonesia's free nutritious meal programme.

Iran Halts Two Oil Tankers in Strait of Hormuz Amid Fires

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has stopped two oil tankers in the Strait of Hormuz after explosions caused severe fires on board, citing non-compliance with regulations. The IRGC also claimed to have struck US military assets in Bahrain and Kuwait, while the US launched further airstrikes targeting Iranian military infrastructure. The escalating confrontation threatens the security of a vital maritime corridor through which hundreds of commercial vessels and millions of barrels of crude oil transit.

Minister: National Children's Day Momentum to Strengthen Digital Protection Regulation

Minister of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection Arifah Fauzi has called for National Children's Day 2026 to serve as a catalyst for reinforcing Government Regulation No. 17 of 2025 on child protection in the digital space. The regulation restricts children under 16 from accessing high-risk digital platforms, a move supported by recent policies from the Ministry of Communication and Digital and the Ministry of Education. The Minister also highlighted the need for greater parental awareness, warning that providing children with gadgets can inadvertently expose them to harmful content.

East Kalimantan Government Synergises to Plant Mangroves, Restoring Critical Coastal Land

The East Kalimantan Provincial Government is spearheading a cross-sector collaboration to plant mangroves, aiming to rehabilitate critical land and protect coastal areas from abrasion. The initiative is part of a broader strategy formalised in a 2026 Mangrove Ecosystem Protection and Management Plan, which covers a total mangrove area of 239,805 hectares. The government emphasises that the revegetation effort is a concrete commitment to restoring the environmental carrying capacity of damaged coastlines, rather than a mere ceremonial act.

Government Hints at Possible Non-Subsidised Fuel Price Cut Amid Falling Global Oil Prices

The Indonesian government has indicated that prices for non-subsidised fuels like Pertamax could be adjusted downwards in August, following a significant drop in global crude oil prices. The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources stated that while a new pricing formula for fishermen has been announced, discussions regarding general non-subsidised fuel adjustments are ongoing. Prices are typically reviewed monthly based on global oil prices and the rupiah exchange rate.

Police Uncover Illegal 3kg LPG Subsidy Misuse Operation in Banyumas, Hundreds of Cylinders Seized

Police in Banyumas, Central Java, have arrested a man for illegally transferring subsidised 3kg LPG into non-subsidised Bright Gas cylinders, an operation that had been running for six months. The suspect, who managed a licensed LPG distribution base, used homemade equipment to refill larger cylinders, generating profits of up to Rp12 million monthly. Authorities seized hundreds of cylinders and equipment, and Pertamina warned that such practices endanger public safety and disrupt subsidised distribution to entitled households.

Central Bangka Regent Orders Quarterly OPD Evaluations to Strengthen Governance

The Regent of Central Bangka has instructed the regional inspectorate to conduct evaluations of all local government organisations every three months. The move aims to enhance internal oversight and ensure that all policies and programmes comply with legal provisions. The initiative is part of efforts to promote accountable, transparent, and deviation-free governance.

Speedboat Captain Dies After 10 Days in Hospital Following Labuan Bajo Reef Collision

The captain of a tourist speedboat that struck a reef in Labuan Bajo has died after 10 days of hospital treatment. Tohak, 56, was injured after falling from the bridge when the vessel hit a reef north of Bidadari Island. The six domestic tourists on board were unharmed in the incident.

Energy Ministry Launches Hydrogen-Diesel Bus and Jakarta-Patimban Green Corridor

Indonesia's Energy Ministry has launched a pilot hydrogen-diesel dual-fuel bus and announced the development of a 194-kilometre green hydrogen corridor from Jakarta to Patimban. The initiatives, unveiled at a global hydrogen summit, aim to accelerate the country's energy transition and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

Purbaya Discusses Possibility of Defence and Police Budget Cuts

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has indicated that the government may consider cutting the budgets for the Indonesian Military (TNI) and National Police (Polri) if fiscal conditions worsen. This follows President Prabowo Subianto's earlier statement that defence and security budgets could be reduced to fund poverty eradication efforts. Purbaya clarified that no such cuts are currently planned, as the state budget remains in a safe position.

Three Unlicensed Companies in Teluknaga Sealed for Polluting Cisadane River

The Banten Environment and Forestry Service has sealed three unlicensed companies in Teluknaga for discharging industrial waste into the Cisadane River, turning the water black. The crackdown followed a direct order from Governor Andra Soni after an investigation traced the pollution to a dyeing business, a plastic recycling plant, and an aluminium company. Authorities have warned that the owners will face legal action if they resume operations before securing the necessary permits.

Drought Affects 10,850 Residents in Four Klaten Villages

A total of 10,858 residents across four villages on the slopes of Mount Merapi in Klaten Regency are facing water shortages due to the dry season. The local disaster mitigation agency (BPBD) has been distributing clean water daily since mid-June, delivering over 1.6 million litres to date. The drought has impacted 3,319 households in the Kemalang district.

Palace Responds to Public Criticism of Public Works Minister's Communication Style

The State Palace has acknowledged public criticism regarding Public Works Minister Dody Hanggodo's informal communication style, stating that such feedback will be used for internal evaluation. Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi noted that while performance and communication style are assessed differently, the government will ensure public input leads to improvements. Minister Dody himself welcomed the criticism as a positive opportunity for self-improvement.

Government Prioritises Benefits for Aceh in Development of South Andaman Gas Block

The Indonesian government is prioritising benefits for the Acehnese people in the development of the South Andaman gas block, with extensive socialisation underway to address local concerns. The project, operated by Mubadala Energy, involves a US$1.95 billion investment and a hybrid offshore-onshore scheme, with a gas sales agreement already signed with PLN for 160 MMSCFD. Production is targeted for 2028, utilising an FPSO to process gas before it is piped to an onshore receiving facility in Lhokseumawe.

Cianjur Police Uncover 14.8 Kg Marijuana Distribution, Two Suspects Arrested

Police in Cianjur, West Java, have seized 14.8 kilograms of dried marijuana and arrested two suspects following a public tip-off. The drugs, valued at approximately Rp600 million, were found packaged in a house and a plantation hut, with police estimating the seizure prevented harm to 30,000 people. Authorities are now pursuing two additional suspects believed to be the owners of the narcotics.

Govt partners with Pindad to develop 3-kg CNG cylinders

The Indonesian government is collaborating with state-owned arms manufacturer Pindad to develop 3-kilogram compressed natural gas (CNG) cylinders as part of efforts to reduce reliance on imported LPG. Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia acknowledged technical challenges due to the high pressure of CNG compared to LPG, but confirmed that prototype testing in China will continue. The initiative will proceed with regional pilot projects, starting in major cities such as West Java, following safety certification by Lemigas.

Indonesia pushes local brands into global markets via FHI 2026

The Indonesian government is leveraging the FHI 2026 platform to accelerate the export of local culinary and hospitality brands, targeting markets in Asia and diaspora communities. Officials highlighted the importance of mentorship in navigating international regulations and financing, while also using the event to attract foreign investment. One participating brand, El's Coffee, reported successfully entering the Chinese market with Lampung Robusta coffee, displacing previous suppliers from Vietnam and Malaysia.

Foreign Tourists Increasingly Using Regional Train Stations in Java and Sumatra, KAI Reports

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) has reported a notable shift in travel patterns, with over a third of foreign tourists using long-distance trains now starting their journeys from regional stations outside the top ten hubs. The number of international visitors departing from 222 regional stations rose by 4.87 per cent year-on-year in the first half of 2026, accounting for nearly two-thirds of the overall growth in foreign passengers. KAI suggests this trend offers regional cities a significant opportunity to showcase their cultural, culinary, and natural attractions, while also providing valuable data for local governments to improve supporting infrastructure.

Police Suspect Golfer Jesslyn Taken to Malaysia After Alleged Abduction

Jakarta police suspect amateur golfer Jesslyn Wijaya was taken to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, a day after she was reportedly abducted in the Mangga Besar area. Investigators are still working to determine whether the incident constitutes a criminal act, noting that the initial report has been withdrawn and no ransom demand has been received. Authorities are seeking to interview two relatives who reportedly travelled with her to ensure her safety and clarify the circumstances.

Bappenas Launches Four Biodiversity Status Documents for Indonesian Regions

The Ministry of National Development Planning (Bappenas) has released four key documents detailing the status of biodiversity in Bali–Nusa Tenggara, Java, Maluku, and Papua. The initiative, supported by various ministries and the German government, aims to provide a scientific foundation for evidence-based policy and development planning. The documents will serve as a strategic basis for implementing the national biodiversity strategy and align with long-term development goals towards Indonesia Emas 2045.

Anticipating Peak Dry Season, 19 Regions in Central Java on Alert for Drought and Forest Fires

Central Java is intensifying mitigation efforts as the peak dry season approaches in August and September 2026, with 19 regions already affected by drought. Measures include water rationing, distribution of clean water, and heightened surveillance to prevent forest and land fires. Farmers in several areas are switching to less water-intensive crops to avoid harvest failure.

Geopolitical tensions could make hydrogen cost-competitive: Bahlil

Investment Minister Bahlil Lahadalia stated that ongoing geopolitical conflicts and challenges in oil field development could narrow the cost gap between hydrogen and fossil fuels like biodiesel. Speaking at a summit, he emphasised that building a national hydrogen ecosystem is key to President Prabowo Subianto's goal of shifting from fossil fuels to renewable energy and strengthening energy sovereignty. The main challenge remains developing more efficient technology to make hydrogen economically competitive.

Indonesian Air Force Successfully Builds National Sugarcane Plantations

The Indonesian Air Force (TNI AU) has successfully cultivated sugarcane across multiple airbases, contributing to 45.05 percent of the national sugar production target for 2026. President Prabowo Subianto acknowledged this achievement during a harvest event, highlighting the collaboration between military personnel and local farmers. The initiative utilises idle land around airbases and supports the government's food security and land rejuvenation goals.

Trade Minister Says Egg and Chicken Meat Prices Are in Ideal Condition, Here's Why

Trade Minister Budi Santoso has stated that the prices of eggs and chicken meat are moving towards a healthy equilibrium, approaching the Highest Retail Price (HET). He argued that this balance is crucial to protect both farmers' production costs and consumers' purchasing power. The government is also monitoring inter-regional distribution to prevent supply gluts or shortages that could trigger price volatility.

Jakarta Health Workers Stage Protest Demanding 13th Month Salary and Employment Rights

Dozens of part-time Government Employees with Work Agreements (PPPK) from the Jakarta Health Office protested at City Hall, demanding the disbursement of their overdue 13th month salary. The health workers, who were appointed in January 2026, also seek regulatory clarity and the issuance of their Civil Service Registration Numbers (NRK). They claim their rights remain unfulfilled despite their new status, while casual workers have already received their payments.

AGO Urged to Maintain Transparency in Febrie Adriansyah Case to Preserve Public Trust

The Attorney General's Office (AGO) is facing a significant test of its integrity over its handling of a corruption and money laundering case involving former senior prosecutor Febrie Adriansyah. A student alliance has warned that the public is watching to see if the law is applied equally, demanding that Adriansyah be detained without special treatment. The group has called for an end to any potential intervention to ensure the investigation proceeds cleanly and transparently.

Deceptive Ceasefire: Israel Kills Mother and Her Four Children in Gaza

Nine Palestinians, including a mother and her four children, were killed in Israeli attacks across the Gaza Strip on Tuesday, despite an ongoing ceasefire agreement. The strikes, which included aerial bombardments and artillery fire, targeted Gaza City and Jabaliya, with rescue teams recovering bodies from the rubble of a family home. The attacks form part of what is described as a continued pattern of Israeli violations of the truce, which has reportedly claimed over 1,100 Palestinian lives since it came into effect.

West Java Police Allow Citizens to Use Measured Self-Defence Against Street Criminals

The West Java Regional Police have authorised citizens to use proportional self-defence when confronting street criminals, while emphasising that any resistance must be firm and measured. The announcement comes as the police force intensifies preventive patrols and reports uncovering 24 cases of violent street crime in July 2026, many of which were initially identified through viral social media posts. Authorities stressed that firm action will be taken against perpetrators to ensure public safety.

Langsa Immigration Deports Another Chinese National for Immigration Violations

The Langsa Immigration Office in Aceh has deported a second Chinese national this month for breaching Indonesian immigration laws. The individual, identified by the initials LG, was repatriated via Kualanamu International Airport under administrative sanctions. Officials reiterated their commitment to enforcing immigration regulations to maintain public order and national sovereignty.

Update on North Bali Airport Development Plan

The development of a new international airport in North Bali is progressing, with the project's commissioner briefing President Prabowo Subianto on its status. The airport, designed to accommodate wide-body aircraft, is part of a national plan to distribute economic growth beyond South Bali and will be fully funded by private investment. The government considers the project increasingly urgent due to rising tourist numbers and the limited capacity of the existing Ngurah Rai Airport.

Indonesia-EAEU Free Trade Agreement to Open New Export Gateway, 11,892 Products to Enjoy Tariff Cuts

The Indonesian government has secured parliamentary approval to advance the Indonesia-Eurasian Economic Union Free Trade Agreement (FTA), which is expected to unlock new export opportunities. The deal will provide tariff elimination or reduction for 11,892 Indonesian product lines, covering 90.5% of the EAEU's tariff posts. The agreement is projected to boost national exports by up to USD 2.89 billion and enhance Indonesia's position in the global supply chain.

Densus 88 Arrests Two Terror Suspects in Ciamis and Lampung, Confirms Same Network

Indonesia's elite counter-terrorism unit, Densus 88, has arrested two men in Ciamis, West Java, and Bandar Lampung on suspicion of involvement in terrorism activities. Police confirmed both suspects belong to the same network and were apprehended for allegedly spreading radical propaganda, recruiting, and inciting violence through social media. Authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant against extremist content online while investigations continue.

Former Kejagung Spokesperson Ketut Sumedana Appointed BGN Deputy for Monitoring and Supervision

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has appointed five new senior officials, including former Attorney General's Office spokesperson Ketut Sumedana. Sumedana, who has 28 years of experience as a prosecutor, will serve as Deputy for Monitoring and Supervision. His role will involve identifying potential irregularities and ensuring regulatory compliance for the agency's programmes.

Indonesian International Financial Centre to be Led by Presidentially Appointed Governor

The Indonesian International Financial Centre (PFII) will be headed by a governor appointed directly by the President without a parliamentary fit and proper test, according to a senior lawmaker. The PFII's advisory board is planned to include members from the Financial System Stability Committee and potentially the financial intelligence unit PPATK. These institutional details are enshrined in the newly passed PFII Law.

West Lombok Regent Allegedly Received Rp10.8 Billion in Project Fees, Says KPK

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has alleged that West Lombok Regent Lalu Ahmad Zaini received Rp10.8 billion in illicit fees related to infrastructure projects. The case involves conflict of interest in procurement at the Public Works and Spatial Planning Agency, where a company controlled by a regional water utility director allegedly secured contracts worth Rp17.9 billion using borrowed company flags. The KPK estimates the total value of projects funnelled through the scheme reached Rp41.7 billion, with a portion of the profits channelled to the regent.

Education Ministry Prepares Civil Servant Teacher Recruitment for Integrated National Schools

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education is preparing a phased recruitment drive for civil servant teachers to staff the new Integrated National Schools. Successful candidates will be central government employees and must complete a 2.5-month training programme, including workshops and classroom internships. The Director General of Teachers and Education Personnel noted that recruitment will proceed in stages until the official civil servant candidate selection process opens.

Network School in Johor’s Forest City ordered to cease operations after business licence revoked

Johor authorities have ordered the tech startup Network School to cease operations in Forest City after revoking its business licence for breaching licensing conditions and premises usage requirements. The enforcement action follows a probe into claims that Israeli nationals were among its participants, though no travel-document violations have been found so far. Johor's Chief Minister stressed that no investor is above the law, while the school's founder had previously threatened to reallocate a planned RM500 million investment elsewhere.

Dasco Says Appointment of New Jampidsus Follows Prevailing Mechanisms

Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad stated that the appointment of a new Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes (Jampidsus) will follow established procedures, with the authority resting with President Prabowo Subianto. Attorney General Sanitiar Burhanuddin has proposed several candidates, including Asset Recovery Agency head Kuntadi, to replace Febrie Adriansyah. Febrie resigned after being named a suspect in multiple corruption cases, including the alleged extortion related to the PT Asabri case.

Government to Develop 40,000 Thematic Villages to Strengthen Indonesia's Protein Exports

The Indonesian government plans to establish 40,000 thematic fish farming villages by 2029 to bolster protein self-sufficiency and boost fishery exports. Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan stated the initiative shifts the national food strategy from carbohydrate self-sufficiency towards strengthening protein production. The programme aims to meet domestic demand and increase exports of commodities like fish and shrimp, with development to be carried out in phases.

Police arrest four suspects in murder of Indonesian Army member in Kelapa Dua

Police in South Tangerang have arrested four individuals suspected of murdering an Indonesian Army soldier. The victim was found dead on a roadside in Kelapa Dua with severe wounds from a sharp weapon. Authorities are conducting intensive investigations to determine the motive and full chronology of the incident.

Indonesia to Issue Debut US$1 Billion Panda Bond on July 23

The Indonesian government will issue its first Panda Bond worth US$1 billion on July 23 to diversify external financing and tap into China's deep capital market. The bond, underwritten by Bank of China and other major Chinese financial institutions, has received a AAA rating from China Lianhe Rating Co., reflecting Indonesia's strong macroeconomic fundamentals and prudent debt management. The Finance Ministry indicated that larger issuances could follow depending on market demand.

Indonesian Cooking Oil Raw Material Faces Hurdles in European Market? Here's the Explanation

Indonesia's palm oil, the primary raw material for cooking oil, is encountering increasing challenges in global markets due to new trade policies and sustainability standards. An industry expert has called for more proactive palm oil diplomacy to serve as market intelligence and preemptively address potential trade barriers. While diversification has reduced dependence on the European Union to an 8-10 per cent export share, officials stress that diplomatic efforts remain crucial to counter ongoing discriminatory policies.

New Jampidsus to Replace Febrie Adriansyah to be Decided Within 1-2 Days

The Indonesian government is set to announce a new Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes (Jampidsus) within the next one to two days. Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi confirmed that President Prabowo Subianto will soon sign a presidential decree appointing the definitive official, following a proposal from the Attorney General. The appointment comes after the previous officeholder, Febrie Adriansyah, submitted his resignation.

Ministry of Forestry Uncovers Alleged Illegal Mining in Tanjung Tampa Nature Park, Lombok; 8 Detained

The Ministry of Forestry has exposed a suspected illegal mining operation within the Tanjung Tampa Nature Park conservation area in Central Lombok, detaining eight individuals. Authorities seized 157 sacks of gold-bearing ore, vehicles, and equipment during an operation that intercepted a transport route using both sea and land. The investigation is now focused on dismantling the entire criminal network, including financiers and beneficiaries, to uphold the protection of Indonesia's conservation zones.

DPR Plenary Session Approves Replacement of ORI Member Hery Susanto

The House of Representatives has approved the interim replacement for Ombudsman Hery Susanto, who was dismissed following his designation as a suspect in a nickel mining corruption case. The replacement was selected based on the order of candidates from a fit and proper test ratified in January 2026. The name of the new Ombudsman member has not yet been publicly disclosed.

Singapore-Indonesia submarine cable strengthens regional digital connectivity

A new 50 km submarine cable linking Singapore and Batam has landed in Indonesia, promising to bolster Southeast Asia's digital economy. The Nongsa-Changi Cable will provide over 1.6 petabits per second of capacity with sub-two-millisecond latency, supporting data centre expansion and cross-border business efficiency. Officials from both nations highlighted the project as a key step in deepening economic cooperation and developing the Batam-Bintan-Karimun region into a digital hub.

OJK approves merger of BPRS Rizky Barokah into PNM Mentari

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority has approved the merger of sharia rural bank BPRS Rizky Barokah into BPRS PNM Mentari to strengthen the competitiveness of the financial industry. The consolidation aims to boost capital capacity, expand access to quality sharia financial services, and enhance institutional resilience. The regulator expects the merged entity to improve business capacity through digital services and a wider network.

Woman in Denpasar Reported to Police by Husband for Giving Birth Earlier Than Planned

A woman in Denpasar has been reported to the police by her husband for allegedly concealing their child's origins after she gave birth via emergency caesarean section earlier than he had planned. The husband filed the complaint because his name was not listed as the guarantor on hospital paperwork, though the woman's legal team argues no birth certificate exists to substantiate the charge. Police have confirmed the investigation is ongoing and plan to consult expert witnesses.

Honda and GAC Extend Joint Venture Partnership in China Until 2038

Honda Motor and China's GAC Group have agreed to prolong their joint venture, GAC Honda, until 2038 as the Japanese automaker seeks to reinforce its standing in the world's largest automotive market. The partnership will maintain its existing ownership structure while accelerating a shift towards new energy vehicles. The extension comes amid intensifying competition from rapidly advancing domestic Chinese manufacturers in electrification and smart technology.

Blueray Boss Met Customs Official Through BPK Member

The owner of PT Blueray Cargo, John Field, testified that he was introduced to a former senior customs official by a current member of Indonesia's Audit Board (BPK). Field, already convicted in the case, stated the introduction led to meetings and ultimately a bribery scheme involving billions of rupiah. The testimony was given during the trial of former customs officials accused of receiving bribes and gratuities related to import activities.

DIY Education Agency Reveals TOEFL Test Scam Targeting Two Yogyakarta High Schools

The Yogyakarta Special Region Education, Youth, and Sports Agency (Disdikpora DIY) has confirmed that two senior high schools fell victim to a fraudulent TOEFL test scheme during their school orientation periods. The perpetrators allegedly infiltrated the schools without official permission, pressuring students into making immediate payments for a discounted test that turned out to be a basic online English proficiency test. Authorities are now investigating the incident, which came to light after a student's social media post detailing the scam went viral.

Customs and Excise Revenue to Miss 2026 Target, Purbaya Explains Why

Indonesia's customs and excise revenue is projected to fall short of its 2026 state budget target by Rp15.4 trillion, reaching only 95.4% of the goal. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa attributed the shortfall primarily to unfavourable global economic conditions and volatile commodity prices. He also dismissed suggestions that the delay in implementing a coal export levy was a contributing factor.

Fresh Out of Prison, Bontang Man Rearrested for Allegedly Dealing Methamphetamine

A 44-year-old man in Bontang, East Kalimantan, has been arrested on suspicion of distributing crystal methamphetamine just months after his release from prison. Police seized five packets of the drug weighing 2.27 grams, concealed in a cigarette pack. Authorities expressed disappointment that the suspect, a repeat narcotics offender, had not reformed and warned of firm action against drug-related crimes.

Golfer J allegedly taken to Malaysia a day after reported kidnapping

Indonesian police revealed that a woman, identified as J, reportedly left for Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, a day after she was allegedly abducted in Central Jakarta. Investigators are still probing whether the incident constitutes a criminal act, noting no ransom demand has been made. The case remains open despite the initial reporter withdrawing the complaint, as authorities seek to ensure the victim's safety.

Bali accelerates protection of productive land through LP2B data collection

The Bali Provincial Government is fast-tracking the protection of productive agricultural land by mapping and designating Sustainable Food Agricultural Land (LP2B) across all regencies and cities. Governor Wayan Koster affirmed the policy is a strategic move to safeguard food security and curb rampant land conversion, backed by regional regulations that prohibit the issuance of investment permits on productive land. The initiative aims to balance economic growth with environmental preservation and the agricultural sector's role as a cultural foundation.

PBNU Accelerates Consolidation of Regional and Branch Chapters Ahead of 35th Congress

The Nahdlatul Ulama Executive Board (PBNU) is intensifying coordination with its regional and branch chapters across Indonesia to ensure their full participation in the upcoming 35th Congress, now just 40 days away. Secretary-General Saifullah Yusuf urged chapters to complete administrative requirements promptly to secure their status as full participants. He also cautioned members against misinformation and praised the East Java chapter for its support.

South Jakarta Police Swiftly Evacuate Soaked Man from Uangan River

Police in Pesanggrahan, South Jakarta, responded rapidly to a public report and evacuated a man found soaking wet in the Kali Uangan river. Officers provided immediate assistance, including changing his clothes and giving him food, before identifying him as a local resident. The man was subsequently reunited with his family.

West Lombok Regent Allegedly Concealed Rp 2.2 Billion in Hospital Share Purchase Scheme

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has alleged that West Lombok Regent Lalu Ahmad Zaini, along with a regional water company director, hid Rp 2.2 billion by placing the funds in a hospital under the guise of a share purchase. The KPK is investigating the flow of these funds as part of a broader corruption case in which the regent is suspected of receiving a total of Rp 12.4 billion. The regent and two company directors have been named as suspects and face multiple charges under the anti-corruption law.

Free Health Screening in South Jakarta Reaches 24.6 Percent of Target Residents

The Free Health Screening programme in South Jakarta has covered 24.6 percent of its 2026 target population as of mid-July, according to local health authorities. The most common findings among adults and the elderly are non-communicable diseases, including elevated blood pressure, high body mass index, and high blood sugar levels. The Jakarta provincial government aims to strengthen early disease detection, with over 2.57 million residents screened citywide by the end of June.

Chinese Ambassador Supports Strengthening Mandarin Language Cooperation in Indonesia

China's Ambassador to Indonesia, Wang Lutong, has affirmed his country's commitment to bolstering Mandarin language education in Indonesia, citing its crucial role in deepening bilateral ties. He noted a growing interest among young Indonesians in learning Mandarin and highlighted government scholarships and volunteer teacher programmes. The envoy also advocated for leveraging new technologies like artificial intelligence to develop digital teaching resources and support economic cooperation between the two nations.

Trade Minister: IEAEU Trade Pact to Boost Indonesian Palm Oil, Textile Exports

Trade Minister Budi Santoso stated that the newly signed Indonesia-Eurasian Economic Union Free Trade Agreement (IEAEU FTA) will significantly benefit Indonesian exports, including palm oil, coffee, textiles, and footwear. The agreement, signed in December 2025, eliminates or reduces tariffs on approximately 90.5 percent of tariff lines and opens access to a market of 183.7 million people. The deal is projected to increase Indonesia's exports to the region to nearly $2.9 billion and boost real GDP by 0.0059 percent.

Africa surpasses Asia in population facing hunger, UN report finds

A United Nations report reveals that Africa has overtaken Asia as the continent with the largest number of people facing hunger, with an estimated 309 million undernourished Africans in 2025. The Food and Agriculture Organisation notes that while global hunger has slightly decreased, Africa's situation has worsened due to climate shocks, conflict, and economic pressures, with two-thirds of its population unable to afford a healthy diet. The findings highlight a significant shift in global food insecurity, urging African nations to prioritise agricultural transformation.

Government Plans to Classify Online Motorcycle Taxi Drivers as Micro-Entrepreneurs

The Indonesian government is considering classifying online motorcycle taxi (ojol) drivers as micro-entrepreneurs to strengthen the protection of the ride-hailing ecosystem. State Secretary Minister Prasetyo Hadi stated the move aims to ensure adequate protection for drivers' income, rights, and future, while also considering the sustainability of application companies. The plan is part of a draft presidential regulation being formulated to balance the interests of all parties, including drivers, app operators, and consumers.

IIFC Law Includes Special Clauses on Inheritance Tax and Seed Capital

Indonesia's newly approved Indonesia International Financial Centre (IIFC) Law introduces special tax provisions on inheritance and seed capital that were not part of the initial draft. The legislation also outlines a range of fiscal incentives, including a 100% corporate income tax reduction for qualifying businesses and VAT exemptions on strategic goods and services. These measures are designed to attract investment and strengthen the national financial sector.

Over 700 Troops from 22 Nations Join Peacekeeping Drill in Bogor

More than 700 military personnel from 22 countries are participating in the Garuda Canti Dharma III 2026 multinational peacekeeping exercise in Bogor, West Java. The drill, co-hosted by Indonesia and the United States, aims to enhance interoperability and readiness for United Nations-mandated peace operations. The US Embassy highlighted the exercise as a testament to the strong defence partnership between the two nations and their shared commitment to global peace and security.

Parents urged to build closeness with children on National Children's Day

Minister of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection Arifah Fauzi has called on parents to foster stronger emotional bonds with their children, warning that many young people lack a safe space to share their problems. A survey of 20,000 children in Central Java revealed a concerning trend of children confiding in friends rather than their parents. The 42nd National Children's Day commemoration, to be hosted in Kepulauan Riau, will be held in a decentralised manner to reach children across all regions.

Education Ministry Partners with Universities to Oversee School Revitalisation

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education is engaging university civil engineering faculties across Indonesia to act as supervisory consultants for school construction under the Revitalisation of Education programme. The initiative aims to ensure quality and efficiency in building projects, with a budget of Rp3.1 billion already disbursed for one school in Kupang. The programme, a priority of President Prabowo, is set to expand to more regions in 2026 following parliamentary approval.

Five Subdistricts in West Bandung Hit by Drought, Regent Jeje: We Are Building 48 Boreholes

West Bandung Regent Jeje Ritchie Ismail reports that five subdistricts are experiencing drought due to a prolonged dry season, affecting clean water supplies and agriculture. The local government has deployed water tankers and is accelerating the construction of 48 boreholes to address the crisis. An emergency hotline has also been established for residents to request water distribution.

Indonesian Army Soldier Found Dead in Tangerang, Four Arrested

Police in South Tangerang have arrested four suspects in connection with the murder of an Indonesian Army soldier, whose body was discovered on a roadside in Kelapa Dua, Tangerang Regency. The victim, identified as Arif Budi Sampurna, was found with multiple stab wounds in the early hours of Sunday morning. Authorities apprehended the four individuals within 24 hours and are continuing their investigation to establish the full chronology and motive behind the killing.

Perbanas Chief Speaks Candidly on Impact to Banks if BI Rate Rises

The head of the National Banks Association (Perbanas) has warned that bank profitability will be squeezed if the central bank raises its benchmark interest rate. Hery Gunardi noted that while cheap funds like savings and current accounts are unaffected, higher rates will increase the cost of deposits, which cannot be immediately passed on to loan pricing. The warning comes as Bank Indonesia's rate has already risen by 100 basis points this year, with another decision imminent.

Accompanied by Prananda Prabowo, Megawati Tours Kudatuli Photo Archive Exhibition

Former Indonesian President Megawati Soekarnoputri opened a historical photo exhibition in Jakarta commemorating the 27 July 1996 attack on the PDI headquarters. Accompanied by her son Prananda Prabowo and other party officials, she viewed archives chronicling the violent incident and the history of the PDI-P. The exhibition revisits a dark chapter in Indonesian politics, where the unresolved case left five dead and hundreds injured, with victims' families still seeking justice.

Jakarta Council Proposes AI-Powered Parking Surveillance to Prevent Revenue Leakage

A special committee of the Jakarta Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) has proposed using artificial intelligence to strengthen parking oversight and curb potential losses in locally generated revenue. The initiative aims to integrate AI with existing CCTV and digital payment systems to automatically verify vehicle counts against recorded transactions. Lawmakers argue that reducing reliance on manual reporting by parking attendants is essential for ensuring transparency and accountability in public service delivery.

KAI North Sumatra Integrates Rail into Umrah Travel Ecosystem

State-owned railway operator PT KAI has positioned its train services as a reliable component of the Umrah pilgrimage travel ecosystem in North Sumatra. A group of 121 pilgrims from Labuhanbatu recently utilised the Sribilah Utama train to connect seamlessly with flights from Kualanamu International Airport. The initiative offers a strategic solution to road congestion and scheduling risks, ensuring pilgrims arrive punctually for their departure to the Holy Land.

Central Java BNN Enlists 1,134 Students as Anti-Drug Volunteers During Community Service Programme

The National Narcotics Agency (BNN) of Central Java has recruited 1,134 students from PGRI University Semarang to serve as anti-drug volunteers during their community service programme (KKN). The students will be deployed to four districts to educate the public on the dangers of drug abuse. This initiative is part of a broader synergy to implement the national P4GN programme and foster a drug-free younger generation.

Collapsed Classroom Roof Forces Students at SD Negeri Tanggirejo into Shift Learning

Students at SD Negeri Tanggirejo in Grobogan, Central Java, are attending school in shifts after the roof of a classroom collapsed in January 2026 and suffered further damage in April. To ensure safety, the school has partitioned remaining usable rooms and converted the prayer room into a temporary classroom. The school is urgently awaiting repairs so that students can return to a safe and proper learning environment.

Top 100 Works from Sekolah Rakyat Photo Competition Exhibited at TIM

An exhibition showcasing the 100 best entries from the National Sekolah Rakyat Photography Competition has opened at Taman Ismail Marzuki in Jakarta. The selected works, curated from around 700 submissions, document the learning spirit and daily life within the government's Sekolah Rakyat programme. Organisers hope the visual approach will help introduce the social initiative to a wider audience.

Woman Raped by Father and Uncle in Bekasi, Abuse Ongoing Since 2019

A 21-year-old woman in Bekasi, West Java, was repeatedly raped by her biological father and uncle, with the sexual abuse beginning when she was 12. Police have arrested one suspect, a 42-year-old uncle, while two other perpetrators, including the victim's father, remain at large. The case highlights a prolonged pattern of familial sexual violence spanning approximately seven years.

China-Philippines Clash in South China Sea Overshadows ASEAN Meeting

A violent confrontation between Chinese and Philippine vessels at Second Thomas Shoal has escalated tensions ahead of a key ASEAN ministerial meeting in Manila. The incident, involving alleged physical attacks on Filipino naval personnel, has drawn sharp condemnation from the United States and Australia. The clash threatens to derail diplomatic progress on a South China Sea Code of Conduct and adds to the regional security concerns alongside the ongoing crisis in Myanmar.

KPK: West Lombok Regent Failed to Declare 55 Land Assets in Wealth Report

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has revealed that West Lombok Regent Lalu Ahmad Zaini allegedly omitted 55 plots of land from his mandatory state official wealth report. The regent, who was recently dismissed by the National Mandate Party, has been named a suspect in a corruption case involving conflicts of interest, bribery, and gratuities related to procurement in the West Lombok Regency Government. The KPK has detained Zaini and two other suspects for an initial 20-day period.

BPKS Transformation Could Alter Sabang's Economic Future

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission VI has stated that transforming the governance of the Sabang Free Trade Zone and Free Port Management Agency (BPKS) is crucial for optimising the region's economic potential. The proposed institutional overhaul aims to create a more professional, transparent, and adaptive body to boost investor confidence. Sabang's strategic geopolitical position is seen as key to developing it into an international hub for logistics, maritime trade, and tourism.

Economist: Strengthening local milk absorption regulations will reduce imports

An economist has urged the Indonesian government to enforce regulations requiring the dairy processing industry to absorb fresh local milk, aiming to protect farmers and cut import dependency. Currently, nearly 80 percent of national milk demand is met through imports, primarily of cheaper milk powder. Proposals include a mandatory minimum local content threshold and tax incentives for compliant companies to create a fairer partnership and sustainable supply chain.

US Lacks Sufficient Missiles for Full-Scale War with Iran, Official Warns

A US official has cautioned that America's stockpile of missiles is insufficient for a full-scale conflict with Iran, as President Trump reportedly considers broader military action. The warning comes amid escalating tensions, with dozens of US troops reportedly wounded in recent Iranian ballistic missile strikes on bases in Jordan and the Gulf. Iran's Revolutionary Guard has vowed to teach the US an 'unforgettable lesson' in response to any further aggression.

Jakarta Accelerates Renovation of SDN Kebayoran Lama Selatan 09, Collapsed Since 2024

The Jakarta provincial government is expediting the reconstruction of SDN Kebayoran Lama Selatan 09 Pagi, a state primary school that collapsed in November 2024. The building's prolonged dereliction has caused student numbers to drop from 300 to 274 as families seek safer alternatives. Officials confirm the project is included in the budget planning and hope to accelerate the timeline from the initially proposed 2027 completion date.