Archive: 17 August 2026
Showing 801-850 of 1,319 articles
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 13:09 WIB
The Zero-Click Search Era Begins: Google AI Changes How We Find Information on the Internet
The article examines the rise of zero-click searches, where users obtain answers directly on Google's results page without visiting external websites. Data from SparkToro and Datos indicates that nearly 60% of searches in the US and EU already end without a click, a trend accelerated by Google's AI Overviews and AI Mode. The shift from a web directory to an answer engine has significant implications for digital publishers, bloggers, and online retailers who depend on search traffic.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 13:09 WIB
Aftershocks in Flores: West Manggarai Residents Choose to Remain in Shelters
More than 1,600 aftershocks have been recorded following the magnitude 7.7 earthquake that struck Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, prompting hundreds of residents in West Manggarai to remain in emergency shelters. Displaced communities are now facing shortages of food, clean water, and sleeping supplies, and are urging local authorities to distribute aid more evenly. The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has advised residents to stay calm but vigilant and to rely only on official information channels.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 13:08 WIB
Qatar pushes for regional de-escalation, freedom of navigation in Hormuz
Qatar's Prime Minister has reaffirmed Doha's support for diplomatic efforts to ease regional tensions and ensure freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. In separate phone calls with the foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia, Jordan and Syria, he urged all parties to commit to dialogue and respect the US-Iran memorandum of understanding. The calls came a day after Qatar denied Iranian claims that it had detained three Iranian pilots.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 13:08 WIB
Leading 81st Independence Day Ceremony at Finance Ministry, Purbaya: This is the Start of Indonesia's Revival
Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa expressed optimism that Indonesia's economic growth can reach the government's 6 percent target. Speaking after leading the 81st Independence Day ceremony at the Finance Ministry, he described the occasion as the beginning of a better Indonesian revival. He also urged prayers for fewer natural disasters and confirmed the government's readiness to fund disaster response.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 13:08 WIB
East Java Regional Police send humanitarian aid to residents affected by NTT earthquake
The East Java Regional Police have dispatched humanitarian assistance for communities affected by the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. The aid includes food supplies, bottled water, refugee necessities, operational support and psychological services. Police personnel and specialist vehicles have also been deployed to support relief efforts on the ground.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 13:06 WIB
BMKG Records 1,624 Aftershocks in Flores, Activity Still Fluctuating
Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has recorded 1,624 aftershocks following the magnitude 7.7 earthquake that struck Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, with magnitudes ranging from 1.3 to 6.2. Seismic activity remains fluctuating, and BMKG estimates it will take two to three weeks before aftershock activity stabilises. A separate magnitude 3.0 shallow tectonic earthquake also struck Alor Regency on Monday.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 13:06 WIB
From Farmer, Yopanda Finds the Meaning of Independence
A former farmer in Tanggamus, Lampung, has transformed his life through industrial employment and adult education, moving from uncertain seasonal income to a stable supervisory role. His story illustrates broader community development efforts in the area, including environmental conservation, water access, and local economic empowerment programmes.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 13:05 WIB
Bringing Morality into the Public Sphere
The article argues that Indonesia's current governance crisis is fundamentally a crisis of morality rather than merely a legal one. It contends that public trust, the foundation of effective government, depends on the integrity of officeholders, and that morality must be actively brought into the public sphere. The piece presents Pancasila as a public ethic and calls for religious piety to translate into professional and social integrity among state officials.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 13:04 WIB
Five million people affected by tropical cyclones in the Philippines
The Philippines' Office of Civil Defence has reported that around 5.08 million people across ten regions have been affected by Tropical Cyclones Luis and Maymay, along with the southwest monsoon. The death toll has reached 23, with over 24,000 people currently sheltering in evacuation centres. The government has distributed 734.1 million pesos in aid and adjusted working hours in twelve provinces due to heavy rainfall.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 13:03 WIB
Viral Bullying Among Students in Kebumen, Perpetrator Detained
Police in Kebumen, Central Java, have detained a vocational school student suspected of bullying a fellow pupil in an incident that went viral on social media. The bullying was reportedly triggered by jealousy over Instagram messages. The school, which is under the auspices of the Kebumen branch of Nahdlatul Ulama, has acknowledged lapses in supervision and pledged to improve its procedures.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 13:03 WIB
Through Pro-Growth Policy, BI Encourages Acceleration of Digital Economy
Bank Indonesia has expanded the 0% Merchant Discount Rate for QRIS transactions up to Rp100,000 for all merchant categories, effective 1 October 2026. The central bank also launched the domestic Kartu Kredit Indonesia scheme for the retail segment as an alternative deferred payment instrument. The measures aim to boost consumption, improve transaction efficiency, and accelerate digital economic growth.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 13:03 WIB
Freeport Boss Stresses Investment Commitment at Indonesia's 81st Independence Day Commemoration
PT Freeport Indonesia marked Indonesia's 81st Independence Day with a ceremony in Tembagapura, Papua, where President Director Tony Wenas reaffirmed the company's commitment to safe production and national contribution. The company is currently restoring operations to 65% capacity by the end of this year and projects state revenue contributions of Rp 47 trillion in 2026. Freeport is also advancing the Kucing Liar underground mine and has applied for an extension of its special mining permit beyond 2041.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 13:03 WIB
Emergency Response to NTT Earthquake Accelerated, Private Sector Aid Arrives
The Indonesian government is accelerating emergency response and recovery efforts following the M 7.7 earthquake that struck Flores, East Nusa Tenggara. Coordinating Minister Pratikno emphasised the government's commitment to supporting affected communities, with ministers present on the ground since the first day. Private sector support is also flowing in, with Bakti BCA partnering with the Indonesian National Armed Forces to deliver humanitarian aid.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 13:03 WIB
Examining Indonesia's Path to Energy Independence
Indonesia is pursuing energy self-sufficiency through both grassroots innovations and government mandates. A straw-based alternative fuel called Bobibos has drawn attention from researchers and industry, while the government implemented the B50 biodiesel mandate in July 2026. Experts caution that the success of B50 depends on robust governance, technology readiness, and balanced economic, social, and environmental considerations.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 13:02 WIB
Government Accelerates Recovery from M7.7 Flores Earthquake, 54 Fatalities Confirmed
The Indonesian government is intensifying emergency response and recovery efforts following the magnitude 7.7 earthquake that struck Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, with the death toll confirmed at 54. Coordinating Minister Pratikno and BNPB chief Suharyanto have outlined integrated measures including logistics distribution, medical evacuation, and infrastructure repair. The government has mobilised aircraft, vessels, and 50,000 presidential aid packages to support affected communities.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 13:01 WIB
Poll: 53 percent of US voters feel their conditions have worsened
A Financial Times poll finds that a majority of American voters believe their financial situation has deteriorated under President Donald Trump, with rising dissatisfaction over his handling of the economy and cost of living. The survey shows Democrats gaining an advantage on jobs and the economy, issues traditionally seen as Republican strengths. Experts warn that broadly negative economic sentiment could hurt the Republican Party in the midterm elections.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 13:00 WIB
Bringing Regional and Institutional Spirit, Various Contributions Receive Appreciation
Indonesia's Ministry of Cooperatives will hold the Koperasi Awards 2026 on 20 August 2026 to honour individuals and institutions that have contributed to the development and strengthening of cooperatives. The awards recognise government officials, cooperative movement figures, and community leaders who have played an active role in expanding the benefits of cooperatives. The event aims to inspire more cooperative champions across regions and reinforce cooperatives as a foundation of the people's economy.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 13:00 WIB
KDS Urges Bandung Regency Residents to Become Heroes in Their Own Environments
Bandung Regent Dadang Supriatna has called on residents to mark Indonesia's 81st Independence Day by becoming 'modern-day heroes' through concrete work and positive contributions to family, community, and region. Speaking at the flag-raising ceremony in Soreang, he emphasised that independence is not the end of the struggle but the beginning of building a better society. He also highlighted the regency's development achievements and urged citizens to maintain unity, pay taxes, and support local products.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 13:00 WIB
Israel Sent Independence Congratulations to Indonesian President
Newly declassified research reveals that Israel sent congratulatory messages to President Soekarno after Indonesia gained sovereignty from the Netherlands in December 1949, but Jakarta ignored the overtures. Despite repeated Israeli attempts to establish diplomatic ties, including an offer of assistance in 1950, Indonesia consistently declined, citing its anti-colonial principles and solidarity with Palestine.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 13:00 WIB
Bandung City DPRD Accelerates Deliberation of Regional Regulation to Convert Sharia Rural Bank into Regional Company
The Bandung City Regional People's Representative Council (DPRD) is expediting the deliberation of a draft regional regulation to transform the city's Sharia Rural Bank (BPR Syariah) into a Regional Company (Perseroda). The change is mandated by OJK regulations and is expected to improve governance, capital access, and competitiveness. Lawmakers also highlighted internal issues such as high non-performing loans and the absence of a permanent director.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 13:00 WIB
Three Flores Regions Briefly Isolated After NTT Earthquake, Police Reopen Access and Rescue Pregnant Woman
Police in East Nusa Tenggara have reopened access to three areas on Flores Island that were cut off by landslides following an earthquake. Officers delivered emergency supplies and evacuated a pregnant woman suffering from bleeding due to premature labour. The operation highlights the importance of rapid response to community reports in disaster-affected areas.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 13:00 WIB
Commemorating Independence Day, Rombsis Indonesia Sends Aid to Support Disaster Response in NTT
The Rombsis Indonesia Humanitarian Foundation has donated Rp100 million to communities affected by disasters in East Nusa Tenggara as part of the 81st Independence Day commemoration. Chairman Andi Idhanursanty emphasised that independence should be marked by social solidarity, not just ceremonial events. He also called for national unity amid rising hoaxes and intolerance in the digital sphere.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 12:59 WIB
KPK awaits government action on special ad hoc court for state-owned enterprises
Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is waiting for concrete government steps before discussing the proposed establishment of an ad hoc court to prosecute state-owned enterprise (BUMN) officials. President Prabowo Subianto floated the idea in his state address on 14 August 2026, suggesting scrutiny of directors and executives going back 30 years. The KPK views the proposal positively but has not yet begun formal deliberations.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 12:54 WIB
15,000 Bottles of Alcohol Seized in Bogor Over Three Months Destroyed
Bogor Police and local government officials destroyed evidence from 77 narcotics cases, including 15,688 bottles of alcohol and 1.5 million illegal pharmaceutical pills, as part of Indonesia's 81st Independence Day commemorations. The operation reflects a three-month enforcement drive from June to August 2026 involving 91 suspects. Authorities framed the destruction as a transparency measure and urged public participation in combating drug trafficking.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 12:53 WIB
Puan calls for modest Independence Day celebration amid NTT earthquake grief
House Speaker Puan Maharani has urged Indonesians to mark the 81st anniversary of independence with restraint as the nation mourns the major earthquake that struck East Nusa Tenggara. She wore a black NTT woven shawl over her white kebaya as a symbol of mourning during the ceremony in Ruteng. The government has reaffirmed its commitment to accelerating emergency response and recovery efforts following the magnitude 7.7 quake.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 12:52 WIB
KMP Ministers Attend Independence Day Ceremony at NTT Earthquake Disaster Site
Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture Pratikno attended the 81st Independence Day ceremony in Ruteng, East Nusa Tenggara, amid ongoing earthquake response efforts. The government has mobilised air, sea and land logistics to accelerate recovery after a magnitude 7.7 earthquake killed 54 people. Central government coordination with the DPR and local administrations aims to ensure displaced residents' basic needs are met during the emergency period.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 12:52 WIB
KPK Welcomes Prabowo's Proposal for Ad Hoc Court to Investigate Troubled State-Owned Enterprises
The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has responded positively to President Prabowo Subianto's proposal to establish an ad hoc court for state-owned enterprises (BUMN). KPK Chairman Setyo Budiyanto said the plan appears aimed at restoring public welfare, though the commission has not yet discussed implementation details. The President previously expressed shock at discovering 1,074 BUMN entities, including subsidiaries and sub-subsidiaries, and suggested investigating directors' accountability going back 30 years.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 12:52 WIB
Wearing Rote traditional attire becomes Gibran's way of diplomatically promoting Indonesian culture
Fashion observer Lisa Fitria has praised Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka for using traditional Rote attire from East Nusa Tenggara as a form of cultural diplomacy. She highlighted the iconic Ti'i Langga headdress and woven Rote cloth as representations of Indonesia's rich cultural heritage. Fitria noted that the attire, alongside President Prabowo Subianto's Malay songket and First Lady Selvi Ananda's Dayak Kenyah beadwork, collectively showcased Indonesia's diverse fashion identity on a national stage.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 12:51 WIB
81st Independence Day Parade Concludes, Roads Around Monas Reopened
Several roads around the National Monument (Monas) in Central Jakarta have been reopened to traffic following the conclusion of the parade marking Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. Police were seen managing traffic flow as vehicles gradually returned to normal. The parade was part of the official commemoration ceremony themed 'Indonesia Berdaulat, Adil, dan Makmur'.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 12:50 WIB
Kepri Governor outlines Asta Cita programme achievements at 81st Independence Day commemoration
Kepulauan Riau Governor Ansar Ahmad has reported progress on President Prabowo Subianto's Asta Cita programme during the province's 81st Independence Day ceremony. The achievements include school-based national awareness campaigns, free nutritious meal kitchens, fishermen's village development, village cooperatives, and housing and health initiatives. The governor called for unity and continued development momentum across the province.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 12:50 WIB
81st Independence Day: President Prabowo Calls for Prayers for Disaster-Affected Residents
President Prabowo Subianto used Indonesia's 81st Independence Day ceremony at Merdeka Palace to call for prayers for citizens affected by natural disasters, particularly in Sumatra and East Nusa Tenggara. The government also deployed senior ministers to disaster-hit regions rather than keeping them all in Jakarta, aiming to ensure state presence and accelerate emergency response coordination.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 12:50 WIB
Thematic Gold Launched to Welcome Indonesia's 81st Independence Day
PT Hartadinata Abadi Tbk, through its HRTA Gold unit, has launched a special independence edition of its EMASKU® gold product to commemorate Indonesia's 81st anniversary. The 'Tumbuh Bersama Indonesiaku' series features designs reflecting growth, creativity, and diversity, alongside promotional discounts and buyback services. The company aims to position gold as both an economic asset and a meaningful part of national celebrations.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 12:49 WIB
From Bawean Island, Tsamratul Afkar Female Student Raises the Red and White in Sangkapura
Shofiya Kartika, a 15-year-old female student from Tsamratul Afkar Islamic boarding school on Bawean Island, Gresik Regency, was selected to join the flag-raising team for Indonesia's 81st Independence Day celebrations in Sangkapura. Her participation highlights how students from remote island communities can take part in national commemorations. The experience blends her pesantren education with a spirit of nationalism.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 12:48 WIB
Minister affirms competent human resources key to Indonesia's industrialisation
Manpower Minister Yassierli has stressed that a skilled workforce is essential for Indonesia to strengthen industrialisation and achieve economic self-reliance. He outlined four priority areas for the Ministry of Manpower, including vocational training, adaptive labour markets, inclusive employment, and stronger industrial relations. The minister linked these efforts to national agendas such as downstreaming, food and energy security, and preparing workers for digitalisation and AI.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 12:47 WIB
Ukraine and Russia Continue Trading Attacks, 19 Killed
Air strikes have killed 19 people across Russia and Ukraine as waves of drones and missiles hit civilian infrastructure in both countries. Ukrainian drone attacks killed five people in Russia's Rostov region, while Russian strikes on Ukraine killed at least seven, including at the ArcelorMittal steel plant in Kryvyi Rih. President Volodymyr Zelensky renewed calls for allies to bolster Ukraine's air defences.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 12:47 WIB
Governor: Independence Day celebrations in NTT held modestly
East Nusa Tenggara Governor Laka Lena said the 81st Indonesian Independence Day commemoration in the province was held modestly as a gesture of empathy for communities in Flores affected by a recent earthquake. The provincial government cancelled ceremonial events and public festivities after the flag ceremony, redirecting resources towards disaster response coordination. A development exhibition involving over 600 MSMEs will continue but has been reframed as a solidarity movement, with proceeds and donations to be channelled to earthquake victims.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 12:47 WIB
The Danger of Blind Trust in AI Agents and the Threat to Software Supply Chains
Kaspersky researchers warn that 'blind trust' in artificial intelligence is becoming a new security vulnerability exploited by cybercriminals. The shift towards autonomous AI agents has outpaced verification, leading to thousands of malware samples disguised as agentic AI software and a rise in supply chain attacks on open-source ecosystems. The report urges companies to prioritise security and verification early in the development process.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 12:43 WIB
President carries Indonesian identity and culture through wearing songket
Fashion observer Lisa Fitria has praised President Prabowo Subianto for showcasing Indonesian cultural identity by wearing songket fabric and a white jasmine garland during the 81st Independence Day ceremony. She highlighted the philosophical meanings behind the motifs and colours, noting that the attire symbolises order, prosperity, humility and dedication to the nation. The choice demonstrates that traditional textiles remain relevant in contemporary Indonesian leadership.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 12:41 WIB
Purbaya Confirms Budget Readiness to Assist NTT Earthquake Response
Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has assured the House of Representatives that the government stands ready to fund disaster response and recovery efforts following the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. The financing will initially draw on the National Disaster Management Agency's existing allocation, with additional on-call state budget funds available if required. Reconstruction of heavily damaged public infrastructure will be coordinated across relevant ministries and agencies.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 12:41 WIB
Home, School, and Screens Are the Three Spaces That Shape Children's Behaviour
Child-on-child violence in Indonesia is a structural problem spanning the home, school, and digital spaces, yet the law regulates these three domains separately. Existing legal instruments—from the Child Protection Law to the education ministry's anti-violence regulation—remain weakly enforced, while digital platform accountability for algorithmic harm is largely absent. The article argues that genuine restorative justice requires synchronised enforcement across family, school, and digital ecosystem regulations.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 12:41 WIB
Central Java Government Sends 16 Personnel and Thousands of Logistics Packages to NTT
The Central Java provincial government has dispatched an initial humanitarian aid shipment to East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), comprising 16 personnel and thousands of food and non-food packages. The team will assist with emergency response and distribution in affected areas, with a second phase of assistance already being planned. Governor Luthfi stressed that the aid must be accurately targeted and that the mission upholds Central Java's reputation for humanitarian concern.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 12:38 WIB
Government Prepares Rp5 Trillion Ready-to-Use Fund for Disaster Management
The Indonesian government has allocated approximately Rp5 trillion in ready-to-use funds for disaster response across the country, with Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa confirming the budget can be increased if needs exceed available resources. The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) also holds an additional Rp500 billion in standby funds for emergency requirements. The minister linked disaster preparedness to maintaining economic momentum, expressing hope that the 81st Independence Day anniversary would mark the start of stronger national economic growth.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 12:38 WIB
Not Just Racing: 1,500 Residents Attend Independence Day Ceremony at Mandalika Circuit
Around 1,500 residents attended the 81st Indonesian Independence Day ceremony at the Pertamina Mandalika International Circuit in Central Lombok, underscoring the venue's openness to the public. ITDC President Director Ahmad Fajar highlighted the circuit's role in fostering new sporting heroes and its broader economic impact, including plans to involve 3,000 workers and volunteers in the upcoming MotoGP event. The development of Mandalika is being positioned beyond motorsport as an integrated destination for sport, culture, culinary, retail, and MSME activities.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 12:37 WIB
Megawati Reveals Reason Behind Frequently Shouting 'Merdeka': Advice from Independence Fighters
PDI Perjuangan chairwoman Megawati Soekarnoputri has explained the historical significance behind her frequent shouts of 'Merdeka', saying the practice originated from advice given by independence fighters who gathered at the presidential palace during her father Sukarno's presidency. Speaking at the party's 81st independence day ceremony, she urged Indonesians to preserve the spirit of freedom and to reflect honestly on the nation's history, both its triumphs and its painful chapters.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 12:36 WIB
Sari Yuliati Inspects NTT Earthquake Site, DPR Ensures Swift and Appropriate Handling
Deputy Speaker of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI) Sari Yuliati visited earthquake-affected areas in East Nusa Tenggara to oversee disaster response efforts. The DPR delegation met with central and regional officials to coordinate emergency relief, logistics, healthcare, and temporary housing. The visit underscores parliamentary commitment to ensuring the state's presence in protecting and assisting affected communities.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 12:35 WIB
Two Komodo Airport Flights Cancelled Due to Aftershocks in Flores
Two Wings Air flights from Komodo International Airport in Labuan Bajo were cancelled on Monday following continued aftershocks from a magnitude 7.7 earthquake that struck Flores over the weekend. The cancelled services were bound for Ende and Bajawa, while other routes continued to operate normally with passengers, predominantly foreign tourists, still checking in.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 12:35 WIB
Residents Evacuate After NTT Earthquake, Police Patrol Empty Homes to Prevent Looting
Police in East Nusa Tenggara are patrolling abandoned residential areas to prevent looting and theft following a major earthquake. The regional police chief has ordered increased patrols during the emergency response period, with 7,670 evacuees recorded across seven districts on Flores Island. Basic necessities and shelter support are being prioritised for displaced residents.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 12:34 WIB
SpaceX acquires AI coding startup Cursor
Elon Musk's SpaceX has officially acquired Cursor, a startup known for its AI-powered coding tools, with the deal announced in June 2026 after collaboration began in April. The merged entity, renamed SpaceXAI, has since released Grok 4.5 and Grok 4.6, AI models designed to excel at coding and agentic tasks at lower cost. Cursor says access to SpaceX's vast GPU fleet enables better model training and more affordable AI offerings.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 12:34 WIB
Syrian Airlines resumes Damascus-Moscow route
Syrian Airlines has restored direct scheduled flights between Damascus and Moscow after a suspension of more than 18 months. Officials from both countries described the resumption as a significant step towards strengthening bilateral cooperation, particularly for the Syrian community in Russia. The move comes as Damascus and Moscow rebuild ties following political changes in Syria in 2024.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 12:31 WIB
Gojek Drivers Raise the Red and White Flag, First and Only in Indonesia
Gojek marked Indonesia's Independence Day by forming its first-ever flag-raising squad, with 47 selected driver partners trained by Purna Paskibraka Indonesia. The ceremony at Cibis Park was attended by hundreds of drivers and GoTo management, including CEO Hans Patuwo. The initiative highlights the company's emphasis on unity, discipline, and national pride among its driver community.