Archive: 15 August 2026
Showing 401-450 of 1,053 articles
Sat, 15 Aug 2026, 16:39 WIB
Government Targets Rp2,322 Trillion Investment in 2027, Banking on Downstreaming
The Indonesian government has set an investment realisation target of Rp2,322 trillion for 2027, an increase of 13.8 per cent from the 2026 target. Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani highlighted the growing role of investment in economic growth, with the sector contributing around 39 per cent of GDP growth in the second quarter of 2026. Downstreaming investments, particularly in minerals, plantations, forestry, and oil and gas, are expected to be key drivers in achieving the target.
Sat, 15 Aug 2026, 16:39 WIB
Why Haji Isam's Cruise Ship Bears the Defence Ministry Logo
The Defence Ministry has confirmed that the private expedition vessel J7 Explorer, owned by businessman Haji Isam, is being used to support national food security programmes. The ship's hull displays the ministry's logo to indicate it is operating under government authority. Ownership remains with the private company, but its use is directed towards achieving food self-sufficiency.
Sat, 15 Aug 2026, 16:39 WIB
STKIP Taman Siswa Bima Lecturers Empower Primary School Teachers to Develop Mbojo Local Wisdom-Based Worksheets
Lecturers from STKIP Taman Siswa Bima have trained primary school teachers in Bima to create problem-based learning worksheets that integrate local Mbojo wisdom and the Merdeka Curriculum. The programme, funded by the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology, included training in Canva and Liveworksheets to digitalise the teaching materials. Evaluation showed significant improvements in teachers' understanding and skills, with a learning community established to ensure sustainability.
Sat, 15 Aug 2026, 16:38 WIB
RAPBN 2027: Safeguarding food security, igniting energy self-sufficiency
Indonesia's 2027 draft state budget prioritises food sovereignty and energy independence, with significant allocations for agricultural expansion and solar power development. The government aims to reduce import dependence and strengthen its diplomatic bargaining position through domestic production gains. Observers note that these achievements could bolster Indonesia's standing as a self-reliant middle power in the Indo-Pacific.
Sat, 15 Aug 2026, 16:37 WIB
No Longer Relying on Debt, Entrepreneurs Build Healthier Businesses
Indonesian entrepreneurs shared experiences of overcoming severe debt burdens, including hundreds of billions of rupiah in liabilities and bounced cheques, during a talk show in Surabaya. They rebuilt their businesses through deleveraging, efficiency, asset sales, and disciplined management rather than continued borrowing. Former State-Owned Enterprises Minister Dahlan Iskan emphasised that slowing expansion can be crucial to avoiding collapse.
Sat, 15 Aug 2026, 16:34 WIB
Ministry of Tourism and BPOLBF Ensure Tourist Safety After NTT Earthquake
The Ministry of Tourism and the Labuan Bajo Flores Authority (BPOLBF) have confirmed the safety of tourists and coordinated emergency measures following a 7.7 magnitude earthquake in Nagekeo, East Nusa Tenggara. Nearly 1,000 tourists stranded on Padar Island have been safely returned to Labuan Bajo, while damage assessments continue across hotels, infrastructure, and public facilities. The tsunami warning has been lifted, but authorities urge continued vigilance due to potential aftershocks.
Sat, 15 Aug 2026, 16:33 WIB
Dompet Dhuafa deploys team to survey areas affected by M7.7 earthquake in NTT
Indonesian charity foundation Dompet Dhuafa has dispatched teams to assess damage across multiple districts in East Nusa Tenggara following a magnitude 7.7 earthquake centred in Nagekeo. The quake caused significant destruction, including the collapse of a mosque in East Manggarai. State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi confirmed the government has launched a rapid emergency response, with President Prabowo Subianto receiving updates and senior officials heading to the affected areas.
Sat, 15 Aug 2026, 16:33 WIB
Several Roads in NTT Blocked by Landslides Following M 7 Earthquake
A magnitude 7 earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara has disrupted transport routes, with several roads reported blocked by landslides. The National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) and the Ministry of Public Works are mobilising personnel and equipment to reopen access. Air support and backup communication systems, including Starlink, are also being prepared.
Sat, 15 Aug 2026, 16:32 WIB
Former KSOP Head Who Received Payments from Samin Tan to Face Trial Soon
The Attorney General's Office has transferred Handry Sulfian, former head of the Rangga Ilung Port Authority Office, to prosecutors in Central Jakarta. He is accused of accepting illicit payments from companies affiliated with Samin Tan to allow illegal coal shipments from PT Asmin Koalindo Tuhup to sail despite terminated permits. Sulfian faces corruption charges under the 2023 Criminal Code and anti-corruption law.
Sat, 15 Aug 2026, 16:31 WIB
Ministry of Defence dispatches 2,105 civil servants for second wave of reserve component military training in 2026
Indonesia's Ministry of Defence has dispatched 2,105 civil servants from five ministries and agencies to undergo basic military training as part of the second wave of the reserve component programme for 2026. The trainees will first undergo mental, ideological, psychological and physical fitness selection for about a week before starting approximately six weeks of training on 24 August 2026. Their formal appointment as reserve component members is planned for 7 October 2026.
Sat, 15 Aug 2026, 16:31 WIB
IKN sets record for most trees planted in a city park
Nusantara Capital City (IKN) has broken an Indonesian World Records Museum (Muri) record by planting more than 2,000 tree seedlings along the Sanggai River basin in East Kalimantan. The initiative exceeded its initial target of 1,780 seedlings and involved over 2,300 registered participants from government, academia, and the public. Officials expressed hope that other Indonesian cities will follow suit to preserve the environment.
Sat, 15 Aug 2026, 16:30 WIB
Gus Kikin ready to stand as PBNU chairman and promote Qanun Asasi
KH Abdul Hakim Mahfudz, known as Gus Kikin, has declared his readiness to run for chairman of the Nahdlatul Ulama Executive Board (PBNU) after receiving a mandate from the East Java regional board. He plans to revive the Qanun Asasi, a foundational document from NU's early history, as his main mission. Gus Kikin emphasised that leadership should be seen as service rather than a position to be enjoyed.
Sat, 15 Aug 2026, 16:30 WIB
Pertamina Patra Niaga presents people's market to enliven Indonesian Independence Day
PT Pertamina Patra Niaga is hosting a free public market event at Hutan Kota GBK in Jakarta on 16-17 August 2026 to celebrate Indonesian Independence Day. The event features SME bazaars, culinary offerings, discounted staple foods, competitions, and performances by national musicians. The company says the initiative aims to strengthen customer engagement while supporting small businesses through its MyPertamina loyalty programme.
Sat, 15 Aug 2026, 16:30 WIB
Office Jobs Harder to Find, Gen Z Flocks to Blue-Collar Professions
As artificial intelligence drives automation and reduces demand for administrative roles, Generation Z is increasingly turning to skilled blue-collar careers. High wages in fields such as welding, electrical work, and data centre construction are attracting young workers, with some electricians in the US earning up to US$280,000 per year. The boom in AI infrastructure is creating strong demand for technical labour, while the World Economic Forum warns that millions of office jobs remain at risk.
Sat, 15 Aug 2026, 16:28 WIB
DPR Expresses Condolences over NTT Earthquake, Coordinates Aid and Victim Evacuation
House of Representatives Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad has urged the government to prioritise public safety following a 7.7-magnitude earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. He said DPR leadership would coordinate with relevant commissions and legislators from the affected electoral districts to expedite evacuation, healthcare, logistics and facility restoration. The earthquake caused damage in Maumere, West Manggarai and Labuan Bajo, including to Maumere Port and a hotel.
Sat, 15 Aug 2026, 16:27 WIB
Observer proposes cycle lanes be built higher than road surface
A transport observer has proposed elevating cycle lanes above the road surface to prevent encroachment by motor vehicles. The recommendation includes shaded routes, better parking facilities, incentives for cycling commuters, and stricter enforcement using technology and patrols.
Sat, 15 Aug 2026, 16:27 WIB
Rehearsal for 81st Independence Day: State Secretary Confirms Thorough Preparations
State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi has confirmed that preparations for the 81st Indonesian Independence Day ceremony are nearly complete, with readiness at 99 percent. He expressed appreciation for all parties involved, including security, cleaning staff, and event organisers. Prasetyo also highlighted the cultural performances as a reflection of the nationalism and cultural pride of Indonesia's younger generation.
Sat, 15 Aug 2026, 16:27 WIB
Deputy Governor: Justice is the foundation for sustainable peace in Aceh
Aceh Deputy Governor Fadhlullah has emphasised that equitable policies are the cornerstone of lasting peace in the province, calling for remaining issues to be resolved through dialogue and consensus. Speaking at the 21st anniversary of the Aceh Peace Day, he highlighted the 2005 Helsinki MoU as a historic achievement that ended prolonged conflict peacefully. He urged all parties to preserve peace as a legacy for future generations and to continue implementing the MoU and the Aceh Governance Law.
Sat, 15 Aug 2026, 16:24 WIB
Jusuf Kalla backs GIHES 2026 to focus on character education
Former Indonesian Vice President Jusuf Kalla has voiced support for the Global Islamic Holistic Education Summit (GIHES) 2026, which will focus on character and holistic education. The summit, organised by Pondok Modern Darussalam Gontor and partners, is scheduled for September 2026 in Jakarta. Organisers say it aims to address the mental fragility of young people and promote the pesantren model as a global solution for developing future leaders.
Sat, 15 Aug 2026, 16:22 WIB
Depok Health Office educates posyandu cadres and PAUD teachers to prevent stunting
The Depok City Health Office has trained posyandu cadres, PKK members, and early childhood education teachers on stunting prevention through growth monitoring and infant and child feeding practices. The initiative aims to strengthen frontline capacity in monitoring child development and nutrition across all 63 urban villages and 11 sub-districts. Officials hope the programme will help Depok achieve zero new stunting cases.
Sat, 15 Aug 2026, 16:22 WIB
Indonesia Fair 2026 at Beijing Embassy showcases archipelago's cultural diversity
The Indonesian Embassy in Beijing hosted the 'Gempita Merdeka Indonesia Fair 2026' to celebrate Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, attracting thousands of visitors and promoting the culture, tourism, fashion and products of Bali and eastern Indonesia. Ambassador Djauhari Oratmangun highlighted the rapid growth in bilateral trade and investment with China, while Bank Indonesia introduced the cross-border QRIS payment system. The event featured traditional dance, music, food stalls and Indonesian brands, reinforcing cultural and economic ties between the two nations.
Sat, 15 Aug 2026, 16:20 WIB
Bulog welcomes Indonesia's 81st Independence Day through Bulog Cup uniting personnel from Sabang to Merauke
State logistics company Perum Bulog launched the Bulog Cup 2026 to mark Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, bringing together 1,500 employees from across the archipelago. The event features sports competitions including tennis, mini soccer and e-sports, aimed at strengthening solidarity and sportsmanship among staff. Bulog's chief executive said the activities are intended to boost morale and support the company's role in safeguarding national food security.
Sat, 15 Aug 2026, 16:20 WIB
UNJ and ISPI unite ideas to support teacher education reform
Jakarta State University (UNJ) and the Indonesian Education Scholars Association (ISPI) held a seminar and workshop to formulate directions for reforming teacher education in Indonesia. The event brought together government officials, teacher training institutions, and education stakeholders to discuss issues including institutional nomenclature, curriculum, and teacher professional education. Recommendations from the forum are expected to inform the ongoing revision of the National Education System Law (RUU Sisdiknas).
Sat, 15 Aug 2026, 16:20 WIB
Eradicating Underinvoicing, Danantara CEO: DSI to Use Cross-Ministry Data
Danantara CEO Rosan Roeslani has announced that PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia (DSI) will strengthen cross-ministerial data integration to monitor export activities more closely. The system allows the government to track exports from port of origin to pricing and destination country, narrowing the gap between declared prices and index prices. Rosan stated that the improved monitoring has led to a significant reduction in potential underinvoicing practices.
Sat, 15 Aug 2026, 16:19 WIB
Apple seeks to charge fees for out-of-App Store purchase links
Apple has proposed commission rates for US apps that provide links to external purchase options, following a court order. The proposed fees range from 5% to 15% depending on the app's programme, and are lower than Google's external link fees in its case with Epic Games. The US District Court will now evaluate Apple's proposal and hear Epic Games' response.
Sat, 15 Aug 2026, 16:19 WIB
River clean-up supports Indonesia ASRI Movement
A joint force of 3,550 personnel from the military, police, Jakarta provincial government, and community groups cleaned rivers at 11 locations across Greater Jakarta to support President Prabowo Subianto's Indonesia ASRI Movement. The initiative, held ahead of Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, aims to improve environmental cleanliness and flood preparedness. Officials emphasised that the clean-up will become a regular programme rather than a one-off event.
Sat, 15 Aug 2026, 16:15 WIB
Number of Damaged Buildings in Bima Due to M 7.7 Earthquake Increases
The number of damaged buildings in Bima Regency, West Nusa Tenggara, has risen following the 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck off Flores Island. Local disaster authorities have recorded three damaged houses and a cracked sub-district office, while hundreds of coastal residents carried out self-evacuations due to tsunami fears.
Sat, 15 Aug 2026, 16:15 WIB
Permanent Housing in Agam Uses Earthquake-Resistant Home Technology and Sepablock
The Agam Regency government in West Sumatra has begun constructing 1,817 permanent homes for victims of the November 2025 hydrometeorological disaster, using three approved construction technologies. The programme combines physical housing reconstruction with economic recovery initiatives, including fish and betel nut processing training for affected families.
Sat, 15 Aug 2026, 16:15 WIB
Reflections on the Digital Press and New Hopes for PWI West Java
The election of Tantan Sulthon Bukhawan as chairman of the Indonesian Journalists Association (PWI) West Java for 2026–2031 is framed as a pivotal moment for press professionalism in the digital era. The article urges the new leadership to uphold journalistic integrity, resist clickbait culture, and maintain critical yet collaborative relations with regional government.
Sat, 15 Aug 2026, 16:15 WIB
Track Record of Destry Damayanti, Sole Candidate for BI Governor Proposed by Prabowo
Destry Damayanti has been proposed by President Prabowo Subianto as the sole candidate for Governor of Bank Indonesia, following her current role as acting governor after Perry Warjiyo's resignation. Her extensive career spans roles at the Ministry of Finance, Citibank, Bank Mandiri, the Indonesia Deposit Insurance Corporation (LPS), and as Senior Deputy Governor of BI since 2019. Key economic officials, including Coordinating Minister Airlangga Hartarto and Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa, have expressed strong support for her candidacy, citing her experience and the positive market response.
Sat, 15 Aug 2026, 16:14 WIB
Bareskrim Reveals Crew of 1.3 Tonne Ketamine Smuggling Vessel Were Promised Rp178 Million Bonus
Indonesian National Police's Criminal Investigation Unit (Bareskrim) has disclosed that crew members aboard the MV King Sun were promised bonuses of up to USD 10,000 for smuggling 1.3 tonnes of ketamine. The vessel was intercepted in the waters off Bintan, Riau Islands, following a joint operation involving the Navy and other agencies. The syndicate is believed to have completed three deliveries, including shipments to the Philippines and Taiwan.
Sat, 15 Aug 2026, 16:14 WIB
BGN lifts suspension on seven SPPG kitchens in West Papua
The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has lifted the temporary suspension on seven Satuan Pelayanan Pemenuhan Gizi (SPPG) kitchens in West Papua after they met operational standards, including wastewater treatment facilities and hygiene sanitation certificates. The move brings the total number of operating kitchens in the province to 47, serving 123,015 beneficiaries under the Free Nutritious Meals Programme. BGN is also awaiting central guidance on the operational schedule for 16 additional kitchens in remote, frontier, and outermost (3T) areas.
Sat, 15 Aug 2026, 16:10 WIB
Governor Koster Responds to Phenomenon of Israelis Opening Businesses and Working in Bali
Bali Governor Wayan Koster has said the presence of Israeli citizens living and working in Bali is a matter for the central government, while pledging to coordinate further on the issue. The Immigration and Corrections Ministry has explained that many Israelis in Bali hold dual citizenship and enter using non-Israeli passports. One Israeli-born man holding Lithuanian citizenship has been deported for misusing his residence permit.
Sat, 15 Aug 2026, 16:10 WIB
Basuki Responds to Prabowo's Speech Not Mentioning IKN, Reveals This
Head of the Nusantara Capital Authority (OIKN) Basuki Hadimuldjono has clarified that the development of Indonesia's new capital remains a government priority despite not being explicitly mentioned in President Prabowo Subianto's 2027 state budget speech. Basuki explained that IKN falls under the infrastructure and regional development clusters, and confirmed that budget allocations have been disbursed in stages. The government has approved Rp48.8 trillion for IKN development for the 2025-2029 period.
Sat, 15 Aug 2026, 16:08 WIB
Residents Still Trapped in Building Rubble After M 7 Earthquake in NTT
The National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) has confirmed that some residents remain trapped under collapsed buildings following a magnitude 7 earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. Joint search and rescue teams involving Basarnas, the military and police are prioritising efforts to locate and extract survivors. The death toll has risen to 38, with two seriously injured, 11 lightly injured and around 2,000 people displaced.
Sat, 15 Aug 2026, 16:08 WIB
Minister: PFII established because Indonesia considered potential by investors
Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi said the International Financial and Investment Centre (PFII) is being established because Indonesia is viewed as having significant growth potential and key prerequisites for attracting investment. The government is moving quickly to prepare the necessary framework, with Jakarta and Bali planned as initial locations. President Prabowo Subianto has indicated similar zones could be opened in other regions that attract foreign investor interest.
Sat, 15 Aug 2026, 16:07 WIB
Ministry of Immigration and Corrections opens 2026 Poltekimipas cadet registration
Indonesia's Ministry of Immigration and Corrections has opened online registration for the 2026 intake of cadets at the Immigration and Corrections Polytechnic (Poltekimipas) from 18 to 30 August 2026. A total of 405 places are available across six study programmes, including 30 reserved for civil servants within the ministry. The ministry stressed that the selection process is transparent and free of charge, warning that any promises of guaranteed admission constitute fraud.
Sat, 15 Aug 2026, 16:07 WIB
Neighbourhood Unit Head in Pamulang, South Tangerang, Named Suspect After Reprimanding Resident for Burning Rubbish
A neighbourhood unit head in Bambu Apus, Pamulang, has been named a suspect for alleged assault following a dispute over rubbish burning. The altercation escalated from a verbal reprimand into a physical confrontation involving a glass of pond water, a wooden stick, and a helmet. The case has been declared complete by prosecutors and transferred to the South Tangerang District Attorney's Office.
Sat, 15 Aug 2026, 16:07 WIB
Developers Begin to Target East-West MRT Corridor Access
Property developers are factoring the planned East-West MRT line into their residential projects, particularly in Bekasi. Damai Putra Group highlights the proposed station at the gateway of Kota Harapan Indah as a key connectivity advantage for its new Cresta lakeside housing development. The first phase of the corridor is planned to run 24.5 kilometres from Tomang to Medan Satria.
Sat, 15 Aug 2026, 16:06 WIB
Police Chief Reveals Planes Unable to Land at Flores Airport, District Police Chiefs Ordered to Evacuate Victims
East Nusa Tenggara Police Chief Inspector General Rudi Darmoko has prioritised public safety in the emergency response following a 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck the region on Saturday morning. He has ordered all district police chiefs in affected areas to carry out evacuations alongside relevant stakeholders. The police chief also noted that several airports on Flores Island remain inaccessible to aircraft, delaying his planned visit to the affected locations.
Sat, 15 Aug 2026, 16:06 WIB
Minister: English to Become Compulsory Subject in Primary Schools from 2027
Indonesia's Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Abdul Mu'ti, has announced that English will become a compulsory subject for primary school pupils in years 3 to 6 starting in 2027. The policy follows President Prabowo Subianto's call for foreign language instruction to begin at primary level, arguing that children under 12 learn languages more quickly. The move is intended to improve pupils' future employment prospects and access to global opportunities.
Sat, 15 Aug 2026, 16:01 WIB
Sikka Police and Brimob Erect Emergency Tents at Santo Gabriel Kewapante Hospital
Police and Brimob personnel in Sikka Regency have erected emergency tents at Santo Gabriel Kewapante Hospital following an earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. The tents are being used to accommodate evacuated patients, including adults and infants, while ensuring medical services continue. Two people injured by falling debris at Maumere Port are also receiving treatment at the hospital.
Sat, 15 Aug 2026, 16:00 WIB
Prabowo Prepares 15,000 Health Projects, Prioritising Puskesmas and Regional Hospitals
The Indonesian government has announced plans for approximately 15,000 health infrastructure projects as part of the 2027 state budget, focusing on primary care centres and regional hospitals. The programme includes building and renovating thousands of puskesmas, upgrading regional hospitals, and strengthening public health laboratories. The initiative aims to address disparities in healthcare access, though officials acknowledge that success will also depend on addressing Indonesia's severe shortage of medical personnel.
Sat, 15 Aug 2026, 16:00 WIB
Video: Supporting Prabowo's B50 and Electrification, Are Mining Heavy Equipment Ready?
PT Gaya Makmur Mobil has confirmed its readiness to supply trucks and heavy equipment compatible with Indonesia's B50 biodiesel mandate, having fitted FAW and XCMG units with specialised filters. The distributor also sees electrification as an opportunity to improve efficiency in the logistics and mining sectors, though charging infrastructure and higher vehicle prices remain challenges.
Sat, 15 Aug 2026, 16:00 WIB
Palace on Limited Dual Citizenship: If Approved, It Must Be Selective
President Prabowo Subianto has proposed amending the law to allow limited dual citizenship for exceptional Indonesian talent. State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi said the idea is still under review and would require highly selective criteria if approved. The policy aims to attract skilled diaspora members, including scientists, doctors, and AI experts, to contribute to national interests.
Sat, 15 Aug 2026, 16:00 WIB
Textile Waste Art Featured at Purana 17: Renjana Perca Exhibition
The Purana 17: Renjana Perca exhibition in Jakarta showcases artworks made entirely from recycled materials, including a large tapestry by Hana Surya and a 6x6 metre denim piece by maestro Sutjipto Adi. Founder Nonita Respati also introduced a 'Waste to Fabric' innovation that transforms plastic bottle waste into woven fabric. She hopes the simple process can be replicated by communities in villages and sub-districts to empower local waste management.
Sat, 15 Aug 2026, 16:00 WIB
Before the M 7.7 Earthquake, NTT Was Struck by a Devastating Earthquake in 1992
A magnitude 7.0 earthquake struck Nusa Tenggara Timur on 15 August, killing at least 14 people and damaging dozens of buildings. The article also reviews the region's seismic history, including the 1992 Flores earthquake and tsunami that killed more than 2,000 people.
Sat, 15 Aug 2026, 16:00 WIB
Digital Economy Grows More Complex, Supreme Court Justice Candidate Urges Tax Court Reform
A candidate for Supreme Court justice has called for reform of Indonesia's Tax Court to address the challenges posed by the digital economy, where cross-border transactions generate economic value without physical presence. Yeheskiel Minggus Tiranda highlighted the need to align the court's adjudicative capacity with substantive tax regulations and to complete the transfer of its administrative oversight to the Supreme Court by the end of 2026.
Sat, 15 Aug 2026, 15:58 WIB
Waste Clean-up and Tree Planting, DKI Provincial Government Realises a Greener Jakarta
The DKI Jakarta Provincial Government, together with the TNI and Polri, held a waste clean-up and tree planting event in Kalijodo, West Jakarta, as part of efforts to maintain environmental cleanliness and sustainability. The initiative, which included cleaning the banks of the West Flood Canal, is intended to set an example for residents and will be carried out regularly ahead of Independence Day. Officials emphasised that keeping Jakarta clean requires collaboration between the government, security forces, and the public.
Sat, 15 Aug 2026, 15:58 WIB
Education minister wants MBS Kertek to become centre for character and STEM education
Minister of Primary and Secondary Education Abdul Mu'ti has inaugurated the Muhammadiyah Boarding School (MBS) Kertek in Wonosobo, Central Java, expressing his hope that it will become a centre for character development and STEM education. The four-storey building cost Rp5 billion to construct, with an additional Rp1.6 billion spent on land acquisition. The minister also announced plans to send four to six students abroad to Cairo and Medina starting in the 2027/2028 academic year.