Archive: 17 August 2026
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Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 11:05 WIB
174,791 Prisoners and Juvenile Offenders Granted Independence Day Remission, 3,591 Released Immediately
The Indonesian government has granted remission to 174,791 prisoners and juvenile offenders to mark the 81st anniversary of independence. Of these, 3,591 will be released immediately. The Ministry of Immigration and Corrections said the measure reflects respect for human rights and recognises progress in rehabilitation.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 11:04 WIB
Pramono: Independence Must Be Filled with Real Work for Citizens
Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has called for the spirit of independence to be translated into tangible work, highlighting the capital's economic growth of 5.52% in the second quarter of 2026 and its 16.32% contribution to national GDP. He outlined a range of programmes spanning education, transport infrastructure, environmental management, and humanitarian aid. The governor also emphasised collaboration and public service as the modern expression of independence.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 11:02 WIB
Full Prayer by Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar at the 81st Independence Anniversary
Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar led prayers during the 81st Indonesian Independence Day ceremony at the Merdeka Palace, asking for the nation to be protected from slander, disaster, and division. He also prayed for the country to fill its independence with achievements and to overcome remaining challenges, while honouring the heroes who fought for freedom.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 11:02 WIB
Bank Indonesia to Implement Expanded 0% MDR QRIS Policy from 1 October 2026
Bank Indonesia has officially launched an expansion of the 0% Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) policy for QRIS payments, effective 1 October 2026. The policy aims to stimulate economic growth, strengthen national economic resilience, and benefit merchants, consumers, and payment service providers. The announcement was made during the 81st Indonesian Independence Day celebrations.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 11:00 WIB
Purbaya Prepares Rp5 Trillion to Handle NTT Earthquake
Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has confirmed that Rp5 trillion in disaster management funds held by the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) is available to address the impact of the 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck East Nusa Tenggara. Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono said evacuation, aid distribution, and restoration of road access are the immediate priorities. The Public Works Ministry is currently clearing 12 landslide points to reopen vital connectivity routes.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 11:00 WIB
On 81st Independence Day, Government reaffirms acceleration of M7.7 NTT earthquake response
The Indonesian government has reaffirmed its commitment to accelerating emergency response and recovery efforts following the M7.7 earthquake that struck Flores, East Nusa Tenggara. Coordinating Minister Pratikno and BNPB head Suharyanto detailed integrated logistics operations and damage assessment strategies during the 81st Independence Day commemoration in Ruteng. The confirmed death toll stands at 54, with data collection ongoing to expedite repairs.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 11:00 WIB
Law Minister Supratman Meets Mualem After Aceh Peace Day Unrest: What Was Discussed?
Law Minister Supratman Andi Agtas has met with Aceh Governor Muzakir Manaf and other regional leaders following disturbances during the Aceh Peace Day commemoration. The meeting focused on consultations regarding the Aceh Special Autonomy Law, which is set to expire in 2027. Supratman aims to complete deliberations on the law this year and has urged the people of Aceh to remain united.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 11:00 WIB
BPJPH urges health industry to comply with halal certification requirements
Indonesia's Halal Product Assurance Agency (BPJPH) is calling on domestic and international health industry players to accelerate halal certification ahead of mandatory deadlines. Under Government Regulation No. 42 of 2024, certification obligations for certain health products, including natural medicines and Class A risk medical devices, will take effect from 18 October 2026. The agency stresses that early preparation will give businesses sufficient time to adjust.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 11:00 WIB
Independence Day: Residents enthusiastic about free shirts and food at Monas
Jakarta residents gathered at the National Monument (Monas) to celebrate Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, queuing for free shirts and food despite the heat. The festivities included the ceremonial procession of the national flag and proclamation manuscript to the Merdeka Palace. Participants expressed hopes for a more prosperous and united Indonesia.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 11:00 WIB
KPAI highlights repeated bullying allegations at SMP Negeri 1 Blora
The Indonesian Child Protection Commission (KPAI) has called for a thorough evaluation of supervision and safe-school culture at SMP Negeri 1 Blora following a second alleged bullying incident in under a year. Commissioner Diyah Puspitarini stressed that victims must be encouraged to report incidents and that schools must implement Ministerial Regulation No. 6/2026 on safe and comfortable school culture.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 11:00 WIB
Law Minister Urges Acehnese to Maintain Unity
Law Minister Supratman Andi Agtas has called on the people of Aceh to preserve unity within the framework of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia. The appeal was made during the 81st Independence Day celebrations, amid ongoing discussions on the continuation of Aceh's Special Autonomy, which expires in 2027. Supratman expressed hope that deliberations on the Special Autonomy Law could be concluded this year.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 11:00 WIB
Trump Chooses Kim Jong-un over Allies: War Drills with South Korea Cut Abruptly
US President Donald Trump ordered the Pentagon to significantly reduce the scale of joint military exercises with South Korea just hours before the annual Ulchi Freedom Shield drills began. Trump cited the high cost and his good relationship with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, arguing the exercises send an inappropriate and hostile signal to Pyongyang. He also linked the decision to Seoul's refusal to join US efforts to denuclearise Iran.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 10:58 WIB
On Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, NTB Governor Wears Manggarai Traditional Attire in Solidarity with NTT
West Nusa Tenggara Governor Lalu Muhamad Iqbal and his wife wore Manggarai traditional Songke cloth during the 81st Independence Day ceremony as a gesture of solidarity with East Nusa Tenggara following a magnitude 7.7 earthquake. The quake killed at least 53 people and injured 135. Provincial officials urged residents to show empathy and postpone celebratory events.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 10:57 WIB
Death Toll from NTT Earthquake Rises to 54
The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has confirmed that 54 people have died following the earthquake in Nusa Tenggara Timur, with injury data still being collected. A national command post at Halim Perdanakusuma Airport in Jakarta is coordinating logistics, including 50,000 aid packages from President Prabowo Subianto, distributed through hubs in Labuan Bajo and Maumere. BNPB has deployed air, land, and sea assets to reach isolated areas and instructed local governments to begin damage assessments and repairs without waiting for complete data.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 10:57 WIB
On Independence Day, Megawati urges prayers for NTT earthquake victims
Former Indonesian President Megawati Soekarnoputri called on the public to pray for victims of the earthquake that struck East Nusa Tenggara during the 81st Independence Day ceremony. She expressed deep condolences for the people of Flores and offered prayers for the bereaved families. The remarks were made at the PDIP party school in South Jakarta.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 10:56 WIB
Bank Indonesia launches Indonesian Credit Card for the general public
Bank Indonesia and the Indonesian Payment System Association have launched the Indonesian Credit Card for retail customers, expanding a domestic deferred payment instrument previously limited to government transactions. The card is initially issued in digital form for QRIS-based payments, with plans to extend it to online and physical card transactions. Seven major banks are participating as first movers in the scheme.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 10:55 WIB
Baki bearer's point of view as she receives the Red and White Flag from President Prabowo
The 81st Indonesian Independence Day ceremony at Merdeka Palace featured a new camera angle showing the flag handover from the baki bearer's perspective. Celina Olivia Apriani Theo received the Red and White Flag from President Prabowo Subianto before the hoisting procession continued.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 10:55 WIB
Bulog NTT adds 10 tonnes of rice for Flores earthquake victims
State logistics agency Bulog has dispatched an additional 10 tonnes of rice to strengthen food supplies for communities affected by the earthquake on Flores Island, East Nusa Tenggara. The shipment, coordinated with the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB), is being sent from El Tari Airport and Tenau Port to disaster posts across the island. Bulog emphasised that food stocks in its warehouses remain sufficient and secure.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 10:54 WIB
Head of SRMA Aceh Besar hopes school building construction completed by 2027
The head of Sekolah Rakyat Menengah Atas (SRMA) 1 Aceh Besar has urged the government to complete construction of the school in Jantho before the 2027/2028 academic year. Currently only land is available, with no permanent building yet constructed. He called on the Aceh Besar district government to clarify the construction process to avoid disruptions to teaching and learning.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 10:52 WIB
Religious Affairs Minister Leads Prayer at 81st Independence Day, Highlights Highest Social Harmony Index in History
Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar led prayers at the 81st Independence Day commemoration at Merdeka Palace, expressing gratitude for interfaith harmony and national achievements under President Prabowo Subianto. He highlighted the record-high religious and social harmony index of 77.85 percent, the highest in the nation's history. The minister also prayed for the nation to be protected from slander, disaster, and division.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 10:52 WIB
Prabowo Praises 81st Indonesian Independence Day Ceremony at Palace, Summons Commanders
President Prabowo Subianto expressed appreciation for the orderly and solemn conduct of the 81st Indonesian Independence Day ceremony at the State Palace in Jakarta. Following the ceremony, he requested the ceremony commander and all unit commanders to report to him. The event was attended by senior state officials, former presidents, and thousands of invited guests.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 10:51 WIB
Paskibraka Troop Receives Rousing Applause at Independence Day Ceremony
The 'Indonesia Berdaulat' Paskibraka troop received enthusiastic applause after successfully raising the flag at the 81st Independence Day ceremony at Merdeka Palace. President Prabowo served as inspector of the ceremony, which was led by Colonel Inf Priyo Handoyo. The event featured students from across Indonesia in key flag-raising roles.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 10:51 WIB
Biomedical Independence: From AI to Nanotechnology
Indonesia must pursue 'biomedical independence' to avoid remaining a mere market for global health technology, argues this piece. The article contends that sovereignty in the 21st century hinges on mastering AI, genomics, data, and drug manufacturing. It calls for a national effort to become a creator and regulator of biomedical technology rather than a dependent consumer.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 10:50 WIB
386 Dompu Prison Inmates Receive Independence Day Remission, 1 Immediately Released
A total of 386 inmates at Dompu Class IIB Prison in West Nusa Tenggara received remission in conjunction with Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. One inmate convicted of theft was immediately released after receiving RU II remission. The prison currently houses 573 people, including 492 convicts and 81 detainees.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 10:50 WIB
Prabowo Summons 81st Independence Day Ceremony Commander Colonel Priyo
President Prabowo Subianto requested Colonel Inf. Priyo Handoyo, commander of the 81st Indonesian Independence Day ceremony, to report to him after the Proclamation Seconds commemoration concluded. The President expressed pride in the orderly and solemn conduct of the ceremony. Colonel Priyo currently serves as Commander of Kodim 0733/Semarang City in Central Java.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 10:49 WIB
West Kalimantan representative Celina Theo selected to carry the Red and White Flag tray
Celina Olivia Apriani Theo from West Kalimantan has been chosen to carry the Red and White Flag tray during the Independence Day ceremony at Merdeka Palace. The Paskibraka team, named 'Indonesia Berdaulat', comprises representatives from various provinces across Indonesia. The ceremony marks the 81st anniversary of Indonesia's independence.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 10:49 WIB
Indonesia and EU strengthen cooperation on sustainable forest management
Indonesia and the European Union have reinforced their partnership on sustainable forest management and legal timber trade through the 11th Joint Implementation Committee meeting. The forum addressed evolving global trade regulations, including the EU Deforestation Regulation, and sought to align policies to benefit Indonesian exporters. Both sides emphasised the importance of technical dialogue and market access for Indonesian forest products.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 10:48 WIB
81st Independence Day Ceremony: Prabowo Urges Public to Pray for Earthquake Victims in NTT
President Prabowo Subianto led the 81st Indonesian Independence Day ceremony at the State Palace, calling for a moment of silence to honour fallen heroes and pray for those affected by recent earthquakes in Sumatra and East Nusa Tenggara. Several ministers and deputy ministers were dispatched to NTT to oversee disaster response efforts while also leading regional ceremonies. The government prepared additional seating to accommodate high public enthusiasm for the event.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 10:46 WIB
No Disruption to Navigation Services at NTT Airports Following Earthquake
AirNav Indonesia has confirmed that all flight navigation services remain fully operational following the magnitude 7.7 earthquake that struck East Nusa Tenggara. Despite structural damage to some control towers, the state-owned enterprise is implementing contingency plans to support evacuation and aid distribution efforts. The company is prioritising safety while continuing to assess facilities amid ongoing aftershocks.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 10:45 WIB
Local vs Foreign Investors: Who Really Controls the Indonesian Stock Exchange?
Domestic investors now dominate the Indonesian stock market in ownership, trading activity, and account numbers, holding nearly 60% of share value and contributing almost two-thirds of transactions. Despite a net foreign sell-off of Rp72.87 trillion year-to-date, the Jakarta Composite Index has remained resilient, rising 2.66% in early August. The analysis concludes that while local investors hold structural control, foreign capital still influences market momentum.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 10:44 WIB
BNI distributes initial aid for earthquake victims in Flores
State-owned lender PT Bank Negara Indonesia (BNI) has begun distributing essential supplies to communities affected by the recent earthquake on Flores Island, East Nusa Tenggara. The assistance, coordinated with local government and disaster agencies, includes food, water, and household items, with further support planned as needs evolve. BNI has also maintained most banking operations in the affected areas, with only one sub-branch temporarily closed due to structural damage.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 10:43 WIB
British Military Drone Camera Secretly Sent Signals to China, Royal Navy Alarmed
The UK Ministry of Defence discovered that a camera fitted to a Royal Navy K3 Scout maritime drone was automatically sending signals to an internet address in China. Although no sensitive data was found to have been compromised, the discovery has raised serious concerns about supply chain security in British defence technology. The affected camera's internet access has been disconnected and the supplier, Kraken Technology Group, maintains that no sensitive information left proper channels.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 10:41 WIB
President kisses Red and White flag before handing it to bearer
President Prabowo Subianto kissed the Indonesian national flag before handing it to the Paskibraka flag bearer during the 81st Independence Day proclamation ceremony at Merdeka Palace. The ceremony included a moment of silence for disaster victims in Sumatra, East Nusa Tenggara and other regions. The 2026 Independence Day theme is 'Indonesia Berdaulat, Adil, dan Makmur' (Sovereign, Just, and Prosperous Indonesia).
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 10:40 WIB
Vice President Gibran Wears NTT Traditional Attire at 17 August Ceremony
Vice President Gibran Rakabuming wore traditional Rote attire from East Nusa Tenggara at the 81st Indonesian Independence Day ceremony, symbolising solidarity with the region following a recent earthquake. His wife, Selvi Ananda, wore Dayak Kenyah traditional dress from East and North Kalimantan. The choice of attire reflected the theme of diversity in achieving a sovereign, just and prosperous Indonesia.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 10:38 WIB
Megawati leads 81st Indonesian Independence Day ceremony in Lenteng Agung
Megawati Soekarnoputri, Indonesia's fifth president and chair of the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP), presided over the 81st Independence Day flag ceremony at the party school in Lenteng Agung, South Jakarta. She also viewed a historical exhibition on the proclamation of independence and the relocation of the government during the revolution. The event was attended by party officials and broadcast live for PDIP cadres nationwide.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 10:38 WIB
Wearing NTT Traditional Attire, Nicholas Watches 81st Independence Day Commemoration in Front of Palace
Nicholas Nahak, a resident of East Nusa Tenggara, attended the 81st Indonesian Independence Day commemoration outside Merdeka Palace in Jakarta wearing traditional NTT attire. Despite failing three times to secure an invitation to the ceremony inside the palace, he remained determined to attend. He expressed hopes to meet President Prabowo Subianto and former President Joko Widodo, and called for assistance for earthquake victims in NTT.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 10:38 WIB
Gibran Attends Proclamation Ceremony Wearing NTT Traditional Attire
Vice President Gibran Rakabuming and his wife Selvi attended the Proclamation Day ceremony at Merdeka Palace wearing traditional attire from Rote, East Nusa Tenggara, and Dayak Kenyah from East and North Kalimantan respectively. The choice of clothing reflected the theme of diversity in realising a sovereign, just and prosperous Indonesia. The couple was accompanied by their two children, who wore matching traditional dress.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 10:38 WIB
Vice President Gibran Wears Rote Traditional Attire from NTT at 81st Independence Day Ceremony
Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka and his family showcased Indonesia's cultural diversity by wearing traditional attire from different regions at the 81st Independence Day ceremony at Merdeka Palace. Gibran wore Rote traditional dress from East Nusa Tenggara, while his wife Selvi Ananda wore Dayak Kenyah attire from East and North Kalimantan. The choice of attire was intended to reflect the spirit of diversity in realising a sovereign, just, and prosperous Indonesia.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 10:37 WIB
Prabowo Leads 81st Indonesian Independence Day Ceremony at Palace, Jokowi Attends
President Prabowo Subianto presided over the 81st anniversary of Indonesia's independence at Merdeka Palace, reading the proclamation text originally delivered by Soekarno. Former President Joko Widodo and other senior officials attended the ceremony, which featured the traditional flag-raising by the Paskibraka honour guard.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 10:37 WIB
Pertamina Patra Niaga Holds Cheap Grocery Package Redemption for NTT Disaster Relief
Pertamina Patra Niaga is organising a 'Tebus Murah' programme offering 8,100 subsidised grocery packages, with all proceeds donated to earthquake-affected communities in East Nusa Tenggara. The initiative runs on 16–17 August 2026 across nine Indonesian cities as part of the MyPertamina Pesta Rakyat event. Each package, redeemable for Rp100,000, contains rice, sugar, cooking oil, and canned sardines.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 10:36 WIB
Bank Indonesia Launches Domestic Credit Card with Payment Credit Facility for Retail Customers
Bank Indonesia and the Indonesian Payment System Association have launched the Kartu Kredit Indonesia, a domestic credit card offering retail customers access to credit facilities processed entirely through national payment infrastructure. The scheme, initially available only to the government segment, is being expanded to support consumption and broaden participation in the digital ecosystem. The card is initially issued in digital form for QRIS transactions, with plans to extend it to online payments and physical cards.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 10:36 WIB
Puan Attends 81st Indonesian Independence Day at Palace, Wearing Modern Kebaya and NTT Fabric
House Speaker Puan Maharani attended the 81st Indonesian Independence Day ceremony at the State Palace in Jakarta, wearing a modern white kebaya paired with traditional fabric from East Nusa Tenggara. The event was attended by senior state officials, including Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka and former President Joko Widodo. The ceremony drew thousands of invited guests.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 10:35 WIB
Leading 81st Independence Day Ceremony, Anindya Urges Bakrie to Keep Contributing and Prays for NTT Earthquake Victims
Anindya Novyan Bakrie, CEO of PT Visi Media Asia and PT Bakrie Global Venture, led the Bakrie Group's 81st Indonesian Independence Day ceremony in Jakarta. He called on the conglomerate to remain adaptive and continue contributing to national development. He also offered prayers for the victims of the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 10:34 WIB
President Prabowo Reads the Proclamation of Independence Text
President Prabowo Subianto led the 81st anniversary ceremony of Indonesia's independence at Merdeka Palace, personally reading the Proclamation of Independence. The ceremony included a moment of silence and prayers for victims of recent natural disasters, including earthquakes in Sumatra and East Nusa Tenggara. The event was attended by state officials, former presidents and vice presidents, and foreign ambassadors.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 10:33 WIB
Prabowo Leads Moment of Silence for Heroes and Disaster Victims at Indonesia's 81st Independence Day
President Prabowo Subianto led a moment of silence during the 81st Independence Day ceremony to honour national heroes and pray for victims of recent natural disasters in Sumatra and East Nusa Tenggara. The ceremony at Merdeka Palace began with a flag procession from the National Monument, featuring mounted troops and participants in traditional royal attire. Celebrations are set to continue with a people's festival and a carnival along Jalan Thamrin to Sudirman.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 10:32 WIB
Flag Bearer of the Red and White at Indonesia's Independence Ceremony at the Palace
The Paskibraka team, named 'Indonesia Berdaulat', carried out the flag-hoisting duties at the Independence Day ceremony at Merdeka Palace on 17 August 2026. Celina Olivia Apriani Theo from West Kalimantan was selected as the bearer of the Red and White flag. The article details the key positions within the flag-raising formation, including representatives from various provinces.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 10:31 WIB
Egypt and US Urge Conflicting Parties to Honour Gaza Ceasefire Agreement
Egypt and the United States have called on all parties in the Gaza Strip to fully comply with the ceasefire agreement to maintain regional stability. The appeal followed a meeting between Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi and US Special Envoy Jared Kushner in El-Alamein. Both sides stressed the importance of continued coordination between Cairo and Washington.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 10:30 WIB
Profile of Celine Olivia Apriani Theo, Flag Bearer for the 81st Indonesian Independence Day Ceremony
Celine Olivia Apriani Theo, a student from SMK Negeri 5 Pontianak, was entrusted with carrying the Red and White flag tray during the 81st Independence Day ceremony at the Merdeka Palace. She is one of 76 members of the national Paskibraka representing West Kalimantan. The appointment was only announced on the morning of the ceremony, following a uniform process of selection, training, and assessment by the Pancasila Ideology Development Agency (BPIP).
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 10:30 WIB
The Dutch Role Behind the Popular Panjat Pinang Competition in Indonesia
The traditional panjat pinang competition, a staple of Indonesian Independence Day celebrations, has its roots in the Dutch colonial era. Originally a form of colonial entertainment, it has evolved into a symbol of independence and community solidarity. The event embodies values such as mutual cooperation, unity, perseverance, and the understanding that success requires collective effort.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 10:30 WIB
History and Philosophy of the Panjat Pinang Tradition
The traditional Indonesian game of panjat pinang, a staple of Independence Day celebrations, has deep historical roots dating back to the Dutch colonial era. Over time, its meaning has evolved from colonial-era entertainment to a symbol of independence and communal spirit. The game embodies key values such as mutual cooperation, unity, perseverance, and the understanding that success requires a process.