Archive: 17 August 2026
Showing 1,151-1,200 of 1,319 articles
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 08:35 WIB
Government Sends Another 25 Tonnes of Aid to Earthquake Disaster Sites in NTT
The Indonesian government has dispatched an additional 25 tonnes of relief supplies to areas affected by the 7.7 magnitude earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara, bringing the total aid delivered to 52 tonnes. Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya confirmed that distribution is being carried out by land, air, and helicopter to eight affected regencies. Several ministers and deputy ministers have also deployed to the region to lead the emergency response directly.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 08:34 WIB
Honouring the Proclamation
This article reflects on Indonesia's economic journey since independence, tracing the shifting balance between growth and equity across successive presidencies. It argues that political stability, long-term vision, disciplined execution, and adherence to the national consensus are essential lessons for sustaining economic progress.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 08:31 WIB
The Meaning of the Bright Light of Garuda Prabayaksa, the Golden Carriage Carrying the Heritage Flag
The golden carriage Garuda Prabayaksa carried Indonesia's heritage flag and proclamation text from the National Monument to the Merdeka Palace during the 81st Independence Day commemoration. Two Purna Paskibraka Duta Pancasila 2025 members were honoured to ride the carriage, which symbolises 'great light' or 'bright light'. The procession was accompanied by a large ceremonial escort and drew significant public enthusiasm.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 08:30 WIB
NTT Earthquake Update: Death Toll Exceeds 50, Thousands of Buildings Damaged
The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has reported that more than 50 people have died and thousands of homes have been damaged following the M7.7 earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. The death toll currently stands at 53, with 137 people injured and over 5,600 displaced. Damage assessments are ongoing as joint teams continue to collect data on casualties and infrastructure losses.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 08:30 WIB
A Peek Inside the Goodie Bag at the Palace Independence Day Ceremony: What's in It?
Members of the public attending the 81st Indonesian Independence Day ceremony at Merdeka Palace received souvenir goodie bags containing a mix of practical items and traditional games. The inclusion of traditional toys such as marbles and skipping ropes drew particular attention among the various keepsakes. Attendees arrived from early morning, many dressed in traditional regional attire or formal wear with red-and-white accents.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 08:27 WIB
Residents Begin to Flock to Monas Ahead of 81st Indonesian Independence Day Procession
Crowds dressed in red and white gathered at the National Monument (Monas) in Central Jakarta on Monday morning to witness the procession delivering the heritage flag to Merdeka Palace for the 81st anniversary of Indonesian independence. Attendees expressed enthusiasm for the event, with some arriving as early as 7 a.m. using affordable Transjakarta services. One participant also offered prayers for victims of the recent earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 08:25 WIB
KAI Daop 4 Semarang Celebrates 81st Independence Day with Red and White Decorations
PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) Operational Area 4 Semarang has decorated its stations with red and white ornaments to mark Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. The celebration coincides with high passenger mobility, with 160,770 passengers recorded travelling through the area between 14 and 17 August 2026. KAI is also offering a 17% ticket discount for travel on 17 August 2026.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 08:25 WIB
Access to Three Isolated Areas After NTT Earthquake Reopened, Joint Team Evacuates Pregnant Woman and Distributes Aid
The East Nusa Tenggara Regional Police have reopened land access to three areas on Flores Island that were cut off by landslides following a major earthquake. The reopening has accelerated the delivery of logistics and the evacuation of residents requiring medical attention, including a pregnant woman suffering from bleeding due to premature labour. Police have also established emergency posts and continue to sweep areas that remain unreachable.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 08:24 WIB
BMKG: Light rain expected in western Indonesia on Monday
Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has warned of light rain in several major cities across western Indonesia on Monday. The agency also forecast cloudy to heavily cloudy conditions in parts of Sumatra, Java, Kalimantan and eastern Indonesia. Residents are advised to monitor the Info BMKG app and @infobmkg social media accounts for hourly updates.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 08:23 WIB
Prominent Figures Gather at the Palace, from Bung Karno's Wife to Ma'ruf Amin
Dignitaries including Ratna Sari Dewi Soekarno, Soraya Hamzah Haz, and former Vice President Ma'ruf Amin attended Indonesia's Independence Day ceremony at Merdeka Palace. Ma'ruf Amin praised the government's transformative programmes while urging close monitoring to prevent corruption and deviation. The ceremony was led by President Prabowo Subianto as inspector of ceremonies.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 08:22 WIB
DPR: Future Colonisation Could Occur Through AI Monopoly
House of Representatives member I Wayan Sudirta has questioned whether Indonesia has truly achieved sovereignty, justice, and prosperity after 81 years of independence. He warned that the nation's current enemies are internal, including oligarchic interests, structural ignorance, and constitutional betrayal. Sudirta also cautioned that future colonisation could take the form of artificial intelligence monopolies.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 08:22 WIB
Guests for Indonesia's 81st Independence Day Arrive at Palace from 3 a.m., Welcomed by Cabinet Secretary Teddy
Public enthusiasm for Indonesia's 81st Independence Day celebrations was evident from the early hours, with citizens queuing outside Merdeka Palace from 3 a.m. Many wore traditional attire, and the government provided additional festivities around Monas for those without palace invitations.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 08:22 WIB
Gotong Royong Government in Bumi Handayani
Gunungkidul Regent Endah Subekti Kuntariningsih has introduced the 'Gotong Royong Government' concept, blending innovation with collective cooperation to drive regional development. The approach encompasses seven strategic programmes spanning education, health, economy, governance, social culture, and the environment. Measurable outcomes include a rise in average years of schooling, economic growth of 5.47 per cent in 2025, and a reduction in the poverty rate to 14.15 per cent.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 08:21 WIB
Garuda Prabayaksa carriage carries flag and proclamation text to the Palace
The Garuda Prabayaksa state carriage transported the national flag and proclamation text from the National Monument to Merdeka Palace as part of the Red and White procession on Monday morning. The carriage was specially made in Sleman, Yogyakarta, to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Indonesian independence in 2025. The procession forms part of the 81st Independence Day commemoration ceremony themed 'A Sovereign, Just, and Prosperous Indonesia'.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 08:21 WIB
Japanese Economic Data in Focus, Asian Markets Mostly Higher
Asian stock markets traded mostly higher on 14 August 2026, with South Korea's KOSPI leading gains, while Japan's Nikkei 225 rose modestly after weaker-than-expected GDP data. Japan's economy grew 1.1% annually in the second quarter, below the 2% forecast, as strong exports offset weak domestic demand. The Bank of Japan has marginally raised its GDP projection for fiscal 2026 to 0.6%.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 08:19 WIB
Yesterday, emergency disaster response in East Nusa Tenggara
The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) is using sea transport to deliver emergency aid to earthquake victims in remote islands of East Nusa Tenggara, including Palue Island. President Prabowo Subianto has sent 1,725 food packages via military aircraft, while the Health Ministry aims to restore basic services at damaged regional hospitals within a week. Several ministers will mark Indonesia's 81st Independence Day with affected communities in the disaster zone.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 08:19 WIB
Heritage Flag Procession Departs from Monas to State Palace
The procession carrying the Heritage Flag and Proclamation Text departed from the National Monument to the State Palace on Monday morning, marking the start of Indonesia's 81st Independence Day celebrations. The flag was carried by 2025 former Paskibraka member Sultana Najwa, while the Proclamation Text was carried by Aliah Sakira. Crowds dressed in red and white lined the route to witness the ceremonial parade.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 08:18 WIB
Purchasing Pertamax and Dex Series This Period Contributes Rp 81 Per Litre to NTT Earthquake Victims
PT Pertamina Patra Niaga has launched a charitable initiative whereby Rp 81 from every litre of Pertamax Series and Dex Series fuel purchased through the MyPertamina app between 17 and 31 August 2026 will be donated to disaster victims in Nusa Tenggara Timur. The programme aims to engage the public in supporting recovery efforts in the region. The company emphasises that collective participation can significantly amplify the assistance provided to affected communities.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 08:18 WIB
81st Anniversary of the Republic of Indonesia: Are We Truly Sovereign, Just, and Prosperous?
Dr I Wayan Sudirta, a member of House Commission III from the PDI-P faction, reflects on Indonesia's 81st independence anniversary, questioning whether the national theme of sovereignty, justice, and prosperity has become a lived reality for its 280 million citizens or remains an empty slogan. He argues that the nature of the nation's struggle has evolved, with today's enemies emerging from within rather than from foreign colonial powers.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 08:18 WIB
Guests at 81st Indonesian Independence Day Ceremony Receive Two Souvenir Bags
Invited guests attending the 81st Indonesian Independence Day ceremony at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta received two souvenir bags containing breakfast items, books, mugs, clothing and towels. The event drew thousands of attendees, including first-time guest Ravenska Grace from Kupang. Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi confirmed preparations were 99 per cent complete ahead of the 17 August 2026 commemoration.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 08:16 WIB
Several Party Leaders to Attend Independence Day Ceremony at Palace, Megawati and Paloh Absent
A number of political party leaders are scheduled to attend the 81st Indonesian Independence Day ceremony at the State Palace, while several prominent figures will be absent. PDIP chairwoman Megawati Soekarnoputri will instead lead a ceremony at her party's school, and NasDem chairman Surya Paloh is unwell. Golkar chairman Bahlil Lahadalia has yet to confirm his attendance.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 08:15 WIB
Unhas Rector: Culture strengthens ties among ASEAN youth
Hasanuddin University Rector Prof Jamaluddin Jompa has emphasised that cultural understanding is key to strengthening relations among ASEAN countries, particularly for young people. Speaking at the ASEAN LUMINA event in Makassar, he called for more opportunities for youth to experience different regions, languages and histories directly. A culture ministry official added that shared heritage can help communities find common ground while preserving their distinct identities.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 08:14 WIB
State Secretary: Several ministers lead 81st Independence Day ceremonies in NTT
State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi announced that several ministers and deputy ministers of the Red and White Cabinet are leading Independence Day ceremonies outside Jakarta, including in East Nusa Tenggara where they are also monitoring earthquake disaster response. The government prepared around 8,100 seats for the public at the State Palace ceremony, with additional blocks added due to high enthusiasm. Prasetyo apologised to those unable to obtain tickets and called on all citizens to work hard for a sovereign, just, and prosperous Indonesia.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 08:12 WIB
North Sumatra Provincial Government: Rapidly Reaching Isolated Regions
North Sumatra's provincial government under Governor Bobby Nasution is prioritising infrastructure development to connect isolated areas, with projects including the Idano Noyo Bridge and major road upgrades in Padang Lawas Utara. The improvements have already reduced travel times, lowered logistics costs, and boosted local incomes, with traders reporting up to 50 per cent increases in turnover. The 2026 infrastructure budget has risen to Rp 1.37 trillion, targeting 141 kilometres of new and upgraded roads.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 08:11 WIB
Police Break Through 3 Isolated Areas Affected by NTT Earthquake, Focus on Evacuating Victims
The Nusa Tenggara Timur Regional Police have successfully reopened access to three previously isolated areas on Flores Island following earthquakes and landslides. Personnel evacuated residents, including a pregnant woman suffering from premature labour complications, and distributed food, water, and medicine. The police continue to deliver aid to affected communities and urge the public to report any victims who have not yet received assistance.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 08:11 WIB
Work becomes a way for depressed women in western Afghanistan to recover
In Herat, western Afghanistan, women are finding that engaging in artistic work and training provides not only income but also a means of recovering from depression and psychological distress. Local artisans and cultural institutions are training hundreds of women and girls in skills such as miniature painting, calligraphy, sewing and embroidery, with many graduates going on to run their own businesses. The report highlights how staying at home without activity is seen as a source of mental and physical strain for women, making work an important outlet.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 08:11 WIB
13,859 Personnel Deployed to Secure Flag Procession and People's Party for Indonesia's Independence Day in Jakarta
A combined force of 13,859 personnel from the police, military, and Jakarta provincial government has been deployed to secure the 81st anniversary of Indonesia's independence. The security operation covers key national events including the flag ceremony at the State Palace, the Red and White Flag procession, and public festivities. Authorities have also prepared traffic management measures and emergency services for the public.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 08:10 WIB
Hajj Dormitories to Become Umrah Service Hubs, What Is the Concept?
Minister of Hajj and Umrah Mochamad Irfan Yusuf has inaugurated a new building at the Banjarmasin embarkation hajj dormitory in South Kalimantan, funded through the 2025 State Sharia Securities scheme. He emphasised that hajj dormitories should not remain idle after the hajj season but should be developed into year-round service hubs for umrah pilgrims and the general public. The initiative aims to transform state-funded assets into productive sources of state revenue while improving service quality across Indonesia's more than 30 hajj dormitories.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 08:10 WIB
When Pesantren Builds Water Sovereignty
Pondok Pesantren Al-Ashriyyah Nurul Iman in Parung, Bogor, operates a bottled water production facility as part of its educational mission, teaching students entrepreneurship alongside religious studies. The pesantren's Ointika brand uses reverse osmosis technology and is run by students who combine prayer with production. The initiative reflects the late founder Habib Saggaf's philosophy of integrating practical life skills, health awareness, and economic thinking into Islamic education.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 08:09 WIB
Indonesia and seven countries accuse Israel of obstructing Gaza peace plan
Indonesia, Jordan and six other Muslim-majority nations have jointly accused Israel of blocking peace efforts in Gaza after Tel Aviv rejected a US-backed roadmap. The foreign ministers said Israel now bears responsibility for the stalled peace process and urged the Board of Peace to take immediate action to preserve the comprehensive plan.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 08:09 WIB
Limited Dual Citizenship Proposal: House Commission XIII Supports National Interest
President Prabowo Subianto has proposed amending the law to allow limited dual citizenship for exceptional talents, a move backed by House Commission XIII chairman Willy Aditya. Aditya argues the policy should be viewed through the lens of national interest and diaspora management rather than outdated Cold War security concerns. He highlights the large Indonesian diaspora populations abroad as a potential frontier for national development.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 08:09 WIB
On Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, Fatma Saifullah Motivates Students of Lampung's Sekolah Rakyat
Fatma Saifullah Yusuf, adviser to the Ministry of Social Affairs' Dharma Wanita Persatuan, visited Sekolah Rakyat Terintegrasi 3 in South Lampung to celebrate Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. She encouraged students to fill independence with positive activities such as diligent study and good character. The event highlighted the government's free Sekolah Rakyat programme, which provides quality education and character building for underprivileged children.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 08:08 WIB
Seven Transjakarta Routes to Operate Until 6 PM on 17 August
PT Transportasi Jakarta (Transjakarta) will adjust operating hours for seven of its routes on 17 August 2026, in conjunction with the 81st anniversary of Indonesia's independence. The affected routes will run from 5 AM to 6 PM, instead of the usual 10 PM closing time. The company has urged passengers to plan their journeys accordingly and has deployed staff to assist commuters during the service modification period.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 08:07 WIB
Story of Palestine's Richest Man Draining His Savings to Help Indonesians
Muhammad Ali Taher, a wealthy Palestinian businessman, withdrew his entire savings from a bank in Egypt and donated it to support Indonesia's struggle for independence during the Dutch Military Aggression II in 1948. His gesture, facilitated by Indonesian diplomat Mohamed Zen Hassan, symbolised the deep solidarity between Palestine and Indonesia. The article also highlights Indonesia's enduring support for Palestine, including its refusal to recognise Israel.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 08:06 WIB
Indonesia Not Alone: 29 Countries Celebrate Independence in August
Indonesia shares its independence month with 28 other nations, including Gabon, which also marks its national day on 17 August. The article lists all countries celebrating independence in August, highlighting historical parallels and the unique coincidence of dates. It also provides background on Gabon's decolonisation from France in 1960.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 08:05 WIB
Creative Economy Ministry says Independence Carnival symbolises inter-ministerial synergy
The Ministry of Creative Economy has described the Indonesian Independence Carnival as a demonstration of cohesion and synergy across ministries under President Prabowo Subianto's administration. The event, held on Monday evening in central Jakarta, featured 32 decorated vehicles from ministries and agencies showcasing flagship programmes. It was directly monitored by President Prabowo and included parades, performances, culinary stalls, fireworks and a drone show.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 08:04 WIB
PLN CEO Directly Inspects Electricity Reliability for 81st Indonesian Independence Day
State electricity company PLN has deployed multi-layered power security measures to ensure zero downtime during Indonesia's 81st Independence Day celebrations at Merdeka Palace and other venues in Jakarta. CEO Darmawan Prasodjo inspected the preparations, which include backup generators, UPS units, and hundreds of personnel stationed at strategic points. Nationwide, PLN has readied over 45,000 personnel and thousands of supporting equipment units to secure events across the country.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 08:00 WIB
Prabowo Leads National Pilgrimage at Kalibata Heroes Cemetery at Night
President Prabowo Subianto led a national pilgrimage and solemn reflection at the Kalibata National Heroes Cemetery in Jakarta on the eve of Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. The ceremony included laying a wreath and observing a moment of silence to honour fallen heroes. Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi emphasised that the commemoration should strengthen national unity and commitment to continuing the nation's development.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 08:00 WIB
BNI Distributes Aid to Residents Affected by NTT Earthquake, Banking Services Continue to Operate
State-owned bank BNI has provided humanitarian assistance to communities impacted by the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT). The bank confirmed that its banking services in the affected areas remain operational. The aid distribution is part of BNI's corporate social responsibility efforts to support disaster recovery.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 08:00 WIB
Sikka Police Reach Isolated Village Affected by NTT Earthquake
Police from Sikka Resort have reached Nitung Village on Palue Island, which had been cut off for nearly two days following an earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. More than 100 houses were severely damaged and over 2,000 residents are displaced, with no aid having arrived due to the isolation. Electricity and communications remain completely down as authorities work to deliver assistance.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 08:00 WIB
Independence Reaches Remote Malinau
Malinau Regent Wempi W. Mawa has outlined five priority programmes aimed at ensuring equitable development and public services across the remote North Kalimantan regency. The initiatives focus on agriculture, free education, village human resources, youth entrepreneurship, and integrated data governance. Wempi framed these efforts as essential to fulfilling the constitutional promise of independence and preparing local human resources for Indonesia's future.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 08:00 WIB
Sustainable Development with Malang Mbois Berkelas
Malang City is positioning itself as a model of sustainable urban development, guided by the vision of 'Malang Mbois Berkelas' under Mayor Wahyu Hidayat. The city has been designated as one of 50 national priority areas for metropolitan development from 2025 to 2029. Its strategy rests on four pillars: environmental management, healthcare, education, and adequate housing.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 08:00 WIB
North Maluku Provincial Government: Inclusive Development through Connectivity
North Maluku Governor Sherly Tjoanda Laos has identified connectivity as the main obstacle to inclusive development in the province, despite its record economic growth. The provincial government plans to accelerate road and bridge construction with approximately Rp 1 trillion in additional financing, arguing that building now is more cost-efficient than delaying. The administration is also boosting locally generated revenue and collaborating with central government ministries to fund strategic programmes.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 08:00 WIB
Jakarta Provincial Government: A New Chapter in Waste Management
Jakarta is shifting from a 'collect-transport-dispose' waste model to a 'sort-transport-process' system, reinforced by Governor Instruction No. 5 of 2026. From 1 August 2026, the Bantargebang integrated waste facility will only accept residual waste, as the city targets zero open dumping by 2029. The transition requires both expanded processing capacity and significant behavioural change among residents and businesses.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 08:00 WIB
The First 1,000 Days of Life: Indonesia's Investment in the Future
Minister Wihaji has emphasised that family resilience and demographic stability are foundational to national development, framing the first 1,000 days of life as a strategic investment. The government's MBG 3B programme targets pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and under-fives to combat stunting, with a goal of reducing prevalence below 5 per cent by 2045. Challenges remain in remote regions, where community-based kitchens are being developed to extend coverage.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 08:00 WIB
Solutions from Banua for Indonesia
South Kalimantan Governor Muhidin argues that regional innovation is key to accelerating development and addressing real community problems. He highlights initiatives such as the Kalsel Smart Province digital platform and the Si-Apung Kasela floating rice cultivation technology as models that could be replicated elsewhere in Indonesia. Muhidin also stresses the need to institutionalise proven innovations and prepare the younger generation for the demographic bonus through education and digital literacy.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 08:00 WIB
Bogor City Transformation: Digitalisation and Collaboration
Bogor City has shifted its public services from administrative processes to citizen-oriented digital platforms, including the Bogor Single Window portal and SiBadra complaint app. Mayor Dedie Abdu Rachim is preparing a command centre to integrate data and support the national Indonesia Emas 2045 vision. The city is also fostering an innovation ecosystem involving universities, businesses, communities, and youth through competitions and digital literacy programmes.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 08:00 WIB
Organising the City, Strengthening Pekanbaru's Economy
Pekanbaru has undergone a fiscal transformation under Mayor Agung Nugroho, more than doubling its locally generated revenue from Rp 800 billion in 2024 to Rp 1.3 trillion in 2025. The city has also become Riau Province's largest investment contributor, recording Rp 4.79 trillion in realised investment by the second quarter of 2026. These efforts have earned national recognition from the Home Affairs Minister and international recognition through hosting the Green Cities Mayors' Caucus.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 07:58 WIB
Polda Metro Jaya deploys 13,859 personnel to secure Indonesia's Independence Day in Jakarta
Polda Metro Jaya, together with the TNI and the DKI Jakarta Provincial Government, has deployed 13,859 joint personnel to secure the 81st anniversary of Indonesia's independence. The security operation covers flag ceremonies at the State Palace, parades, people's parties, and entertainment stages in central Jakarta. Police have also prepared traffic management measures and urged the public to follow officers' instructions.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 07:56 WIB
Live Streaming of Independence Day Ceremony at Merdeka Palace, Watch Here
Indonesia's 81st Independence Day ceremony is being held at Merdeka Palace on Monday, 17 August, with live streaming available via CNN Indonesia's YouTube channel. The schedule includes the flag-raising ceremony at 07:30 WIB, the Proclamation Seconds commemoration at 10:00 WIB, and the flag-lowering ceremony at 17:00 WIB. Attendees in traditional dress received souvenir packages containing hats, towels, mugs, umbrellas, and traditional toys.