Archive: 30 July 2026
Showing 851-900 of 1,630 articles
Thu, 30 Jul 2026, 15:18 WIB
Customs and Excise Sector Contributes Rp 152 Trillion to State Coffers by First Half of 2026
Indonesia's customs and excise sector collected Rp 152 trillion in the first half of 2026, contributing 45.2 per cent of total state revenue. The growth was driven by increased excise from tobacco and alcoholic beverages, alongside higher import duties on raw materials. The directorate general also intensified enforcement, seizing 904 million illegal cigarettes and 4.27 tonnes of narcotics.
Thu, 30 Jul 2026, 15:17 WIB
Jakarta Governor Pramono Authorises Cloud Seeding as Capital Faces Three-Week Dry Spell
Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has authorised the Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) to conduct weather modification operations to induce rain, as the capital and its surrounding areas endure nearly three weeks without rainfall. The move marks a shift from the typical use of cloud seeding to divert rain, now deploying it to mitigate potential drought conditions. While no regions in Jakarta are officially classified as drought-affected, the administration is coordinating with the Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) to prepare mitigation measures.
Thu, 30 Jul 2026, 15:16 WIB
APKASI Proposes Salary Adjustment for Regional Heads: Responsibilities Increasingly Heavy
The Association of Indonesian District Governments (APKASI) has urged the central government to revise regulations on the financial rights of regional heads, arguing that current remuneration has not been adjusted for 26 years. APKASI Chairman Bursah Zarnubi highlighted the growing complexity of regional leadership, including managing conflicts in forestry and mining, and called for revisions to Government Regulations No. 69/2010 and No. 109/2000. The association also requested an end to budget cuts in 2027 to allow regions to accelerate infrastructure development and support national strategic projects.
Thu, 30 Jul 2026, 15:16 WIB
Delivery of US attack submarines delayed until 2038
The delivery of nine next-generation Virginia-class attack submarines for the US Navy has been postponed, with the first unit now expected no earlier than April 2035 and the final vessel by July 2038. The delay, attributed to shipyard construction backlogs, means the US military faces a 127-month build time per submarine. A long-term deal for the Block VI boats was approved after Pentagon acquisition chief Michael Duffey informed Congress the contract could save approximately $2.4 billion.
Thu, 30 Jul 2026, 15:15 WIB
Dasco Joins Commission II and Regional Governments to Discuss Remuneration and Revenue-Sharing Fate
The House of Representatives' Commission II held an urgent hearing during recess with regional leaders and the Home Affairs Minister to address key fiscal issues. The meeting, attended by Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad, focused on the remuneration of regional heads, the systematics of revenue-sharing funds, and increasing locally generated revenue. The session follows a recent meeting between the Association of Indonesian Regency Governments and the DPR leadership.
Thu, 30 Jul 2026, 15:15 WIB
Indonesia seeks to enhance digital partnership with Switzerland
Indonesia has expressed a strong desire to deepen its digital partnership with Switzerland, building on over 70 years of bilateral relations. Communications and Digital Minister Meutya Hafid highlighted Switzerland's strategic role as a hub for global digital diplomacy and multilateral forums. The government is open to exploring innovation opportunities to broaden bilateral cooperation in the digital sector.
Thu, 30 Jul 2026, 15:14 WIB
Industry Minister Says EV Incentives Will Prioritise National Brand Cars
The Indonesian government plans to prioritise electric vehicle incentives for national car brands as part of efforts to strengthen the domestic automotive industry. Details remain unclear, including the definition of a 'national brand' and whether foreign manufacturers producing locally will also benefit. The initiative is part of a broader industrialisation agenda aimed at reducing import dependency and boosting local supply chains.
Thu, 30 Jul 2026, 15:13 WIB
Three ATM Skimming Suspects Shot by Police After Resisting Arrest in South Tangerang
Police in Pamulang, South Tangerang, shot three men who resisted arrest during a raid on an ATM skimming operation at a local hospital. The suspects, identified as AN, IRA, and MH, were apprehended after a lengthy surveillance operation prompted by numerous reports of customers losing money. Officers used 'measured firm action' after the trio attempted to flee and fought back during the citizen-assisted capture.
Thu, 30 Jul 2026, 15:12 WIB
KPK Staffer Leaked Case Info to Father to Extort Pemalang Regent
Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has named one of its own administrative staff, Setya Budi Dias Oktavianto, as a suspect for leaking case information to his father. The father, Lilik Budi Suprianto, allegedly used the confidential details to extort Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro for Rp 2 billion. The regent, in turn, is accused of extorting his subordinates to raise the funds, highlighting a complex chain of corruption within the local government.
Thu, 30 Jul 2026, 15:12 WIB
President Prabowo Raises Performance Allowances for TNI and Defence Ministry Personnel
President Prabowo Subianto has officially increased performance allowances for Indonesian Military (TNI) soldiers and Defence Ministry employees, ending an eight-year wait for adjustments. The new rates, effective under recently signed presidential regulations, see the lowest class allowance rise to Rp2.5 million. The government stated the increase is a form of appreciation for bureaucratic reform achievements and the growing burden of duties.
Thu, 30 Jul 2026, 15:12 WIB
bank bjb Expands Business Reach Through Partnership with Yayasan Adi Upaya
Bank bjb has signed a strategic partnership with Yayasan Adi Upaya, a foundation under the auspices of the Indonesian Air Force, to expand its financial services within the education and health sectors. The collaboration includes credit facilities, payroll services, and other banking products for institutions and personnel under the foundation's network. This move aims to strengthen financial inclusion and support the growth of the foundation's ecosystem.
Thu, 30 Jul 2026, 15:11 WIB
33,785 Participants Complete KDKMP Training, 61 Withdraw
A total of 33,785 participants have completed the initial training phase for the Red and White Village Cooperative (KDKMP) and Fishermen's Village programme, according to the Ministry of Defence. Sixty-one individuals withdrew, primarily due to health reasons or a decision to return to their previous professions. Approximately 40 pregnant participants will be offered a place in the next training wave.
Thu, 30 Jul 2026, 15:11 WIB
Constitutional Court: Free Nutritious Meal Programme Must No Longer Use Education Budget by 2028 at the Latest
The Constitutional Court has ruled that the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme must be decoupled from the national education budget by the 2028 fiscal year. The court determined that the programme does not constitute a core component of education and should not be funded through the mandatory 20 per cent education allocation.
Thu, 30 Jul 2026, 15:10 WIB
Reason Why Little Aresha Foundation Chairman's Son Remains in Australia After Missing Two Summons
The son of the Little Aresha Daycare Foundation chairman has failed to comply with two police summonses, citing his wife's pregnancy in Australia as the reason for not returning to Indonesia. Police have already questioned the chairman's daughter, who claims her mother misused her identity to appoint her as the foundation's treasurer. The case involves allegations of inhumane treatment of children at the Yogyakarta daycare, with the total number of suspects now standing at 32.
Thu, 30 Jul 2026, 15:10 WIB
These 15 Ministries and Agencies Hold the Largest Account Balances
As the 2025 fiscal year closes, audited reports reveal that several Indonesian ministries and agencies still hold substantial funds in their accounts, with the Ministry of Public Works topping the list at Rp7.65 trillion. The National Food Agency and the Ministry of Agriculture follow with Rp7.28 trillion and Rp6.52 trillion respectively. The data highlights the concentration of year-end cash holdings, though officials caution that large balances do not necessarily indicate inefficiency due to varying programme characteristics and disbursement mechanisms.
Thu, 30 Jul 2026, 15:10 WIB
Prabowo Urges KAI to Boost Railway Investment and Public Service
President Prabowo Subianto has called on state-owned railway operator PT KAI to significantly increase investment in the sector, particularly to improve safety at thousands of level crossings. Speaking at the inauguration of the renovated Semarang Tawang Station, he stressed that railways must serve as an efficient public service for lower-income groups rather than being purely profit-oriented. He also urged the company to develop a comprehensive railway system that extends to smaller cities.
Thu, 30 Jul 2026, 15:08 WIB
Perum Jasa Tirta 2 Clarifies CCTV Coverage in Jatiluhur Dam Security Guard Murder Case
Perum Jasa Tirta 2 has refuted claims by police and the West Java Governor that there were no CCTV cameras near the location where security guard Sumarna was found dead at Jatiluhur Dam. The state-owned enterprise confirmed 27 cameras are installed across the strategic site, though the specific incident location was outside their range. The case remains under active police investigation, with support from the Purwakarta Regent.
Thu, 30 Jul 2026, 15:06 WIB
Madina Regent: PRSU a Showcase for Regional Culture and Tourism
Mandailing Natal Regent Saipullah Nasution stated that the North Sumatra Fair (PRSU) serves as a vital platform for promoting the region's natural wealth, culture, and tourism potential. The annual event provides an opportunity for local governments to introduce their flagship products and attract investment. The 50th PRSU, themed 'Harmoni Emas', runs from 3 July to 2 August 2026.
Thu, 30 Jul 2026, 15:06 WIB
Barantin Chief Says Non-Halal Products Can Enter Indonesia with Correct Labelling
The head of Indonesia's Quarantine Agency (Barantin) has clarified that non-halal products are not banned from entering the country, provided they are accurately labelled. Abdul Kadir Karding stated that the joint oversight with the Halal Product Assurance Agency (BPJPH) aims to ensure documentation matches the actual goods, not to prohibit imports. The policy is intended to protect consumers by guaranteeing transparency regarding product contents.
Thu, 30 Jul 2026, 15:05 WIB
DPR: Free Nutritious Meal Programme Success Must Be Measured with Valid Indicators
A senior lawmaker has urged the government to use scientifically valid nutritional indicators, such as stunting and wasting rates, to evaluate the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. Commission IX Deputy Chairman Charles Honoris warned against relying on indirect socio-economic surveys, stressing that the multi-trillion rupiah initiative requires objective, data-driven assessment. He called for transparency from the Health Ministry regarding the methodology used to measure the programme's impact on public nutrition.
Thu, 30 Jul 2026, 15:05 WIB
MPR: Human Trafficking a Betrayal of the Constitution and Humanity
Deputy Speaker of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) Lestari Moerdijat has labelled human trafficking as a betrayal of Indonesia's constitution and humanity, calling for a stronger state response. She highlighted the crime's evolution into digital exploitation, including forced online scams, and noted that even highly educated individuals are falling victim. Moerdijat urged a revision of the 2007 anti-trafficking law to address digital-age challenges and strengthen victim protection.
Thu, 30 Jul 2026, 15:05 WIB
DPR Urges Government to Resolve Nickel and Rare Earth Export Deadlock
Indonesia's House of Representatives (DPR) has called for an inter-agency meeting to resolve the stalled exports of mineral commodities like nickel, citing a lack of clear regulations on rare earth elements (LTJ) as the root cause. Industry associations argue that LTJ content in processed bauxite and other ores is negligible, and the current legal uncertainty is disrupting the economic cycle and deterring business activity.
Thu, 30 Jul 2026, 15:04 WIB
US Dollar Strengthens, Rupiah Closes Weaker at Rp18,075/US$
The Indonesian rupiah weakened against the US dollar on Thursday, closing at Rp18,075 per dollar as the greenback rebounded in global markets. The dollar's recovery was driven by safe-haven demand amid renewed US-Iran tensions, overshadowing the Federal Reserve's decision to hold interest rates steady. Market uncertainty was further fuelled by a split vote within the Fed and a lack of forward guidance on future rate moves.
Thu, 30 Jul 2026, 15:04 WIB
Microsoft Revenue Rises 18 Percent in Q4
Microsoft reported an 18 percent year-on-year increase in quarterly revenue to $90 billion for the fourth quarter of its 2026 fiscal year. The company's net profit surged 31 percent to $35.8 billion, driven by strong performance in cloud and AI services. CEO Satya Nadella highlighted that Azure revenue surpassed $100 billion for the first time and Microsoft 365 Copilot reached over 30 million paid users.
Thu, 30 Jul 2026, 15:03 WIB
KPK Reveals Bupati of Pemalang Arranged Bribery Case and Position Trading
The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has disclosed that the Bupati of Pemalang, Anom Widiyantoro, allegedly orchestrated a scheme involving project bribes and the buying and selling of positions. The case also implicates a police officer assigned to the KPK's administrative staff, who is suspected of facilitating the handling of a corruption case against the Bupati. The investigation has led to the detention of four suspects, including the Bupati, as the KPK traces illicit payments totalling nearly Rp2 billion.
Thu, 30 Jul 2026, 15:03 WIB
Agriculture Minister Explains How Food Mafia Defrauds Consumers
Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman has clarified that President Prabowo Subianto's mention of a rice milling company earning Rp 2 trillion per month refers to alleged consumer fraud, not profit. Laboratory tests on 212 premium rice brands revealed that 86% failed to meet quality standards, with broken grain content far exceeding the legal limit. The government estimates this practice causes annual consumer losses of around Rp 98 trillion and has referred the findings to the police's Food Task Force for legal action.
Thu, 30 Jul 2026, 15:03 WIB
BMKG Begins Weather Modification to Anticipate Forest Fires During Dry Season
Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has launched cloud seeding operations across several regions to mitigate forest and land fires during the dry season. The operations, which have been conducted in Aceh, Palembang, Pekanbaru, and Central Kalimantan, aim to increase rainfall by manipulating existing cloud formations. The agency is also using the technique to replenish water levels in key reservoirs, including Lake Toba and Lake Poso, amid an El Niño weather pattern.
Thu, 30 Jul 2026, 15:02 WIB
Baznas RI Wins Top Brand Award for Fifth Consecutive Year
Indonesia's National Alms Agency (Baznas) has secured the Top Brand Award for the fifth year running, achieving the highest Top Brand Index of 43 percent in the zakat and charity category. The award underscores Baznas's position as the most trusted institution for managing Islamic alms in the country. The agency attributed the success to the collective efforts of its staff, volunteers, and the trust of its donors.
Thu, 30 Jul 2026, 15:02 WIB
Constitutional Court Rules Free Nutritious Meal Budget Must Be Separated from Education Fund by 2028
Indonesia's Constitutional Court has partially granted a judicial review, ordering the government to separate the budget for the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme from the national education fund. The court ruled that while the 2026 state budget allocation remains constitutional, the programme must have its own distinct budget line starting in the 2028 fiscal year. The decision follows a lawsuit arguing that using education funds for the programme reduced fiscal space for improving teacher quality and school infrastructure.
Thu, 30 Jul 2026, 15:01 WIB
SNT: A New Hope for Honorary Teachers and Quality Education
A new government initiative, the Integrated National School (SNT), offers hope for addressing Indonesia's stark educational inequality. Data reveals that only 4% of sub-districts have both quality junior and senior high schools, highlighting a significant gap between educational aspirations and reality. The programme is framed not just as a technical fix but as a crucial national investment in human capital and long-term economic growth.
Thu, 30 Jul 2026, 15:00 WIB
Judicial Commission Receives 1,402 Reports of Alleged Ethical Violations by Judges up to June 2026
Indonesia's Judicial Commission (KY) has received 1,402 reports of alleged ethical misconduct by judges in the first half of 2026, highlighting persistent public concern over judicial integrity. Of the registered cases, 121 judges have been recommended for sanctions, with the most common violation being procedural law breaches. The findings underscore ongoing challenges in upholding the Code of Ethics and Code of Conduct for Judges (KEPPH) within the country's judiciary.
Thu, 30 Jul 2026, 15:00 WIB
E-commerce Giant Shein Reveals FTC Investigation, Warns of Financial Impact
Fast-fashion behemoth Shein has disclosed it is under investigation by the US Federal Trade Commission, marking the first public acknowledgement of the probe. The company warned potential investors that the outcome could result in significant monetary payments, materially affecting its financial health. The investigation comes amid broader regulatory scrutiny of 'dark pattern' tactics designed to manipulate consumer behaviour online.
Thu, 30 Jul 2026, 15:00 WIB
Can Gold Without Certificates Be Sold? Understand the Rules and Risks
Selling gold without a certificate is possible but depends on the buyer's policy, with some institutions refusing such transactions outright. While certain shops may accept uncertified gold after thorough verification, sellers should expect a potentially lower price and a longer process. Possessing the original certificate significantly simplifies and expedites the sale.
Thu, 30 Jul 2026, 14:58 WIB
Indonesia and Albania Expand Migrant Worker Market Through SMK Go Global Programme
Indonesia and Albania have signed a memorandum of understanding to expand the placement and protection of Indonesian migrant workers, focusing on skilled labour under the SMK Go Global programme. The agreement aims to facilitate the deployment of vocational school graduates into formal, non-domestic sectors in Albania. The partnership also reinforces bilateral commitment to safeguarding Indonesian workers throughout the migration process.
Thu, 30 Jul 2026, 14:58 WIB
Victims of Human Trafficking Seeking LPSK Protection Rise Since 2024, West Java Highest
The Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) has recorded a rising trend in protection requests for human trafficking (TPPO) cases since 2024. Data shows 576 applications in 2024, with West Java as the highest source region, followed by East Nusa Tenggara. The agency notes the figures are fluctuating but predicts further increases, with legal assistance and restitution being the most sought-after services.
Thu, 30 Jul 2026, 14:57 WIB
How the Ministry of Finance Encourages Investment and Business Growth
Indonesia's Ministry of Finance is driving investment and business growth through supportive fiscal policies, strategic state budget (APBN) management, and digital transformation. These measures aim to create a stable and competitive business climate, reduce operational costs, and attract both domestic and foreign investors. The initiatives are part of a broader effort to ensure sustainable national economic development.
Thu, 30 Jul 2026, 14:57 WIB
Rieke Diah Pitaloka Urges Police Not to Scapegoat in Jatiluhur Security Guard Murder Case
House of Representatives member Rieke Diah Pitaloka visited the family of Sumarna, a security guard murdered at Jatiluhur Reservoir, and urged Purwakarta Police to avoid scapegoating in their investigation. She also called on the state-owned water management company Perum Jasa Tirta 2 to improve security at the nationally vital site to prevent future tragedies. The victim's family has received compensation of Rp418.1 million from the social security agency for workers.
Thu, 30 Jul 2026, 14:56 WIB
Alert! US Launches Large-Scale Attack on Iran, Lasting Two Hours
The United States military has conducted a large-scale air assault on dozens of Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps targets in Iran, destroying command centres and drone facilities. The two-hour operation was a retaliation for an Iranian ballistic missile attack on US forces in Jordan, with the conflict further escalating across Iraq and Egypt. The ongoing instability, including a battle for control of the Strait of Hormuz, has caused global crude oil prices to surge past US$90 per barrel.
Thu, 30 Jul 2026, 14:56 WIB
BI Malang Accelerates MSME Upgrading Through Sapta Rona Pesona 2026
Bank Indonesia's Malang office is promoting the upgrading of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) through its flagship Sapta Rona Pesona 2026 event. The initiative aims to boost economic inclusivity and digital transactions across seven regions, capitalising on solid regional economic growth that outpaced both provincial and national figures in the first quarter of 2026. BI officials emphasised that corporatisation, capacity building, and financing access are key strategic pillars to elevate MSMEs, which form the backbone of the national economy.
Thu, 30 Jul 2026, 14:56 WIB
12 Regional Heads Caught in Sting Operations Throughout 2026, Here's the Home Affairs Minister's Response
Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian has reported the surge in sting operations (OTT) ensnaring regional heads to President Prabowo Subianto, who has pledged full support for anti-corruption enforcement. The Ministry is preparing a bureaucratic capacity-building scheme with the KPK to address the vulnerability of regional leaders, often stemming from diverse professional backgrounds. A total of 12 regional heads have been arrested by the KPK in 2026, with the latest being the Regent of Pemalang for alleged bribery related to positions and projects.
Thu, 30 Jul 2026, 14:55 WIB
Indonesia and UK Strengthen Cooperation, Explore Economic and Investment Potential
Indonesia and the United Kingdom are deepening economic ties, with discussions focusing on the implementation of a new growth partnership and Indonesia's bid to join a major trans-Pacific trade pact. Coordinating Minister Airlangga Hartarto met with the UK Trade Commissioner for Asia Pacific to explore strategic collaboration in sectors including energy, investment, and human resources. The UK reaffirmed its support for Indonesia's accession to the CPTPP, viewing it as a boost to the agreement's relevance in the Indo-Pacific region.
Thu, 30 Jul 2026, 14:53 WIB
Chinese AI firms rush to list on mainland and Hong Kong bourses despite profitability concerns
A wave of Chinese artificial intelligence companies, including large language model startups, are pursuing public listings in Shanghai and Hong Kong, attracting massive retail oversubscription and soaring debut share prices. The rush for fresh capital is driven by a fiercely competitive environment and supportive government policy, even though most firms remain unprofitable. Analysts caution that while a bubble may not have formed yet, the disconnect between high valuations and a lack of solid earnings will eventually test investor sentiment.
Thu, 30 Jul 2026, 14:52 WIB
A Week On, Case of Debt Collectors Damaging House in Jeblog, Bantul Remains Unresolved
Police in Bantul, Yogyakarta, are still investigating a case where a group of debt collectors allegedly ransacked a house in Jeblog, with no significant progress reported a week after the incident. The homeowner filed a police report after the group targeted his residence over his brother's car loan arrears, an event he says traumatised his child and hospitalised his father. Authorities have confirmed the investigation is ongoing but have declined to provide further details.
Thu, 30 Jul 2026, 14:52 WIB
Tana Toraja Principal Bans Hijab, MUI Calls It a Human Rights Violation
The South Sulawesi branch of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) has condemned a state school principal's ban on female Muslim students wearing the hijab, labelling it a human rights violation. The principal of SMP Negeri 2 Bonggakaradeng in Tana Toraja claimed the prohibition was a joke and has since apologised. The MUI emphasised that religious freedom is a constitutional right and that the hijab is a religious obligation for Muslim women.
Thu, 30 Jul 2026, 14:51 WIB
Profiles of the 5 Expert Council Members for Hoegeng Awards 2026
The Hoegeng Awards 2026 ceremony will take place tomorrow evening, honouring five exemplary police officers. The expert council responsible for selecting the recipients comprises prominent figures from Indonesia's legal, human rights, and civil society sectors. The panel includes the Chairman of House Commission III, a former acting KPK leader, and the National Coordinator of the Gusdurian Network.
Thu, 30 Jul 2026, 14:51 WIB
Two Gianyar Villages Named Transparent Villages by Bali KIP 2026
Sidan and Bona villages in Gianyar, Bali, have been selected among the top 16 transparent villages by the Bali Provincial Information Commission (KIP) for their implementation of public information disclosure. The recognition is based on evaluations conducted between 2023 and 2025, with Sidan scoring 96 and Bona scoring 90.05. The initiative aims to encourage more villages to adopt open and accountable governance in line with national transparency laws.
Thu, 30 Jul 2026, 14:51 WIB
NHM Plants Mangroves, Strengthens ESG Commitment in North Halmahera
PT Nusa Halmahera Minerals (NHM) has partnered with the North Halmahera government to plant mangroves in the Kao Village Essential Ecosystem Area, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles. The initiative, which commemorated World Mangrove Day 2026, aims to enhance carbon sequestration, prevent coastal abrasion, and support local economic empowerment through the Green Kaidati community. Officials highlighted the high ecological value of the Kao mangrove area, noting its capacity to store significantly more carbon than tropical forests and its role as a critical habitat for biodiversity.
Thu, 30 Jul 2026, 14:50 WIB
East Kalimantan Accelerates Investment, MBTK SEZ Strengthens Infrastructure and Connectivity
The East Kalimantan provincial government is developing the Maloy Batuta Trans Kalimantan Special Economic Zone (KEK MBTK) as a new economic growth centre, focusing on industry, logistics, and resource-based exports. The zone has secured investment commitments worth IDR 10 trillion for CPO bulking stations and warehousing facilities. National downstreaming policies and the new capital city (IKN) are key drivers positioning the SEZ as a prime investment destination.
Thu, 30 Jul 2026, 14:50 WIB
Serang and Situbondo Sign MoU to Launch Anyer-Panarukan Festival
The regencies of Serang in Banten and Situbondo in East Java have signed a memorandum of understanding to revitalise the historic Anyer-Panarukan route. The collaboration aims to transform the colonial-era road into a corridor for historical tourism and creative economy development. A festival is planned as the initial step to boost local economies and promote the route's cultural heritage.
Thu, 30 Jul 2026, 14:50 WIB
Russia Warns Its Existence Is at Stake, Calls Ukraine Conflict a 'Matter of Life and Death'
Dmitry Medvedev, Deputy Chairman of Russia's Security Council, has declared that the country's survival depends on achieving absolute victory in Ukraine, accusing the West of using Kyiv as a 'battering ram' to destroy Russia. President Vladimir Putin separately told lawmakers that Western sanctions have failed and that Russia's political system is ready to repel any external hostility.