Archive: 17 August 2026
Showing 1,201-1,250 of 1,319 articles
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 07:55 WIB
A Look Inside the Souvenir Bags for Guests at the 81st Indonesian Independence Day Ceremony at the Palace
Thousands of invited guests attended the 81st Indonesian Independence Day ceremony at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta, each receiving souvenir bags from the Palace. The souvenirs included breakfast items, drinks, and a white bag containing a book, mug, shirt, and towel. Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi confirmed that preparations for the ceremony were nearly complete.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 07:55 WIB
Indef: Gold plays strategic role as reserve diversification instrument
The Institute for Development of Economics and Finance (Indef) has highlighted gold's strategic function as a diversification instrument for Indonesia's foreign exchange reserves. Senior economist Aviliani noted that Indonesia's gold holdings remain relatively low compared to other nations, with no single ideal ratio applicable across countries. The development of bullion banking is seen as key to building a national gold ecosystem and broadening public access to gold investment.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 07:54 WIB
Radio Australia to Broadcast Special Programme on 17 August
Radio Australia planned a special broadcast to commemorate Indonesia's independence day on 17 August 1953. The programme was to feature a speech by the Indonesian Ambassador to Australia, Mr Tamzil, and messages from Indonesian students studying under the Colombo Plan. The broadcast was scheduled for 17:30 Java time on wavelengths of 31.09 and 41.55 metres.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 07:54 WIB
10-Year Prison Sentence for Perpetrator of Fatal Brawl in Bekasi
A Bekasi court has sentenced Tri Fahrezi Agustian, also known as Rezi, to 10 years in prison for his role in a deadly street brawl that killed a university student in January. The verdict is lower than the 13-year sentence sought by prosecutors, and the court also rejected a restitution claim of Rp 75 million for the victim's family. A juvenile co-defendant had previously been sentenced to three years, while two other suspects remain at large.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 07:53 WIB
KPK Chairman Leads 81st Independence Day Ceremony, Calls for Prayers for NTT Earthquake Victims
KPK Chairman Setyo Budiyanto led the 81st Indonesian Independence Day ceremony at the KPK's Merah Putih Building in South Jakarta, where he called on all KPK personnel to pray for the victims of the recent earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. The ceremony was attended by KPK employees wearing traditional attire from various regions across Indonesia. The earthquake, which struck on 15 August, has resulted in 53 deaths and 135 injuries according to BNPB.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 07:50 WIB
TNI Soldiers Ate Cat Meat During the War of Independence
During the Indonesian War of Independence (1945–1949), soldiers faced severe food shortages, leading some to eat cat meat. Major General Dr. Moestopo, an eccentric officer, reportedly encouraged his troops to eat cats, believing it would improve their night vision. The story, witnessed by General Oerip Soemohardjo, highlights the extreme conditions and unconventional methods used by Indonesian fighters.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 07:48 WIB
Prabowo Wants Foreign Languages Taught from Primary School, PGRI Raises Concerns
President Prabowo Subianto has proposed teaching eight foreign languages from the first year of primary school, but the Indonesian Teachers Association (PGRI) has warned that the plan faces significant hurdles. PGRI chairwoman Unifah Rosyidi said the curriculum and teaching workforce are not yet ready, urging the government to focus first on Indonesian and English. She acknowledged the importance of language skills but noted that only some schools would be able to respond quickly to the initiative.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 07:48 WIB
South Korean National Arrested for Smuggling 8 Monitor Lizards at Soekarno-Hatta Airport
A South Korean citizen was arrested at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport for attempting to smuggle eight protected monitor lizards to Seoul. The reptiles, identified as emerald tree monitors and Aru monitors, were found hidden in clothing inside the suspect's luggage during an X-ray screening. Authorities have handed the suspect over to forestry law enforcement for further investigation into the illegal wildlife trade network.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 07:46 WIB
Attending Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, Dewi Soekarno Surprised by Many Changes at the Palace
Dewi Soekarno, wife of Indonesia's first president, attended the 81st Independence Day ceremony at Merdeka Palace and expressed surprise at the significant changes to the presidential palace complex. She noted that new buildings now stand where there was once a large open courtyard between the State Palace and Merdeka Palace. She also conveyed her hope that Indonesia will continue to progress.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 07:46 WIB
Human Rights Awareness Grows in Bangunharjo: Residents No Longer Bring 'Pocket Money' to Service Counters
Residents of Bangunharjo Village in Bantul, Yogyakarta, report a significant improvement in public service delivery, particularly the elimination of illegal levies. Hari Pujiyanto, a local resident, contrasts his current experience of fast, transparent, and equal treatment with past practices of unofficial payments. The change reflects growing awareness of citizens' rights and improved governance at the village level.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 07:45 WIB
Gerindra Urges Faster NTT Earthquake Response, Seeks Cross-Faction Support in DPR
Gerindra Party secretary Bambang Haryadi has called on factions in the House of Representatives to expedite budget reallocation approvals for earthquake recovery efforts in East Nusa Tenggara. Speaking during a coordination meeting with the government, he urged all parties to show restraint during the Independence Day period and to use the disaster as a turning point for infrastructure improvement in affected regencies.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 07:45 WIB
How to Install a Twibbon for the 81st Anniversary of Indonesian Independence
As Indonesia prepares to celebrate the 81st anniversary of its independence on 17 August 2026, citizens are encouraged to show their national pride through digital means. The article provides a step-by-step guide on how to install a special Independence Day Twibbon frame on photos for sharing via WhatsApp or social media. This digital celebration complements traditional activities such as games and sending nationalist messages to loved ones.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 07:44 WIB
Public Begins to Fill Merdeka Palace for 81st Indonesian Independence Day Ceremony
Members of the public have started arriving at Merdeka Palace in Jakarta to attend the 81st anniversary of Indonesia's independence ceremony. Attendees, many dressed in traditional regional attire, received souvenir packages upon entry. The day's events include the flag-raising ceremony, the Proclamation Seconds commemoration, and the flag-lowering ceremony.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 07:41 WIB
Jakarta Provincial Government Ready to Send Aid for Post-Earthquake Response in NTT
Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has confirmed that the Jakarta provincial government will contribute aid to victims of the 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck East Nusa Tenggara. The disaster has killed at least 53 people and injured 137, with thousands displaced. The provincial government is currently mapping the affected areas to determine where its assistance can be most effective.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 07:38 WIB
Deputy Mayor Maigus Nasir: Padang Aims for Top Ranking in Investment Services
Padang has been shortlisted among the top six nationally for the 2026 PTSP and PPB performance assessment. A verification team visited the city to evaluate its investment services. Deputy Mayor Maigus Nasir emphasised that ease of doing business and investment growth are top priorities for the city administration.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 07:38 WIB
Human Rights Conscious Village: Protecting Citizens' Rights from Behind the Service Desk
Kalurahan Bangunharjo in Bantul, Yogyakarta, has been designated as the only Human Rights Conscious Village in the regency, reflecting its commitment to fast, fair, and bribery-free public services. The village government has learned that human rights extend beyond high-profile cases to include everyday public administration and social programmes for vulnerable groups. Officials emphasise that eliminating illegal levies and providing excellent service are fundamental to fulfilling citizens' basic rights.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 07:37 WIB
Red and White and the unfinished work
As Indonesia marks its 81st Independence Day, celebrations have expanded beyond government courtyards to caves, mountain peaks, border posts and even a shark aquarium. The article argues that such symbolic displays must be accompanied by substantive action, pointing to initiatives that combine flag-raising with environmental conservation and karst research. The theme 'Sovereign, Just and Prosperous Indonesia' is presented as a framework that must be translated into everyday life.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 07:37 WIB
Government Targets Rp13,032 Trillion Investment by 2029
The Indonesian government has set a cumulative investment target of Rp13,032 trillion for the 2025–2029 period, a 43 percent increase over the previous decade's realised investment. The target is intended to support the ambition of achieving 8 percent national economic growth by 2029. Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani said the 2027 target has been set at Rp2,322 trillion, up from Rp2,041 trillion in 2026.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 07:35 WIB
After failing last year, Palembang resident finally gets ticket to independence ceremony
Yuniartika Permata Sari, a 24-year-old from Palembang, travelled to Jakarta to attend the Independence Day ceremony at Merdeka Palace after failing to secure a ticket last year. She prepared extensively, bringing traditional attire and waking at 1 a.m. to get ready. She expressed hopes for Indonesia's progress, more job opportunities, and fewer natural disasters.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 07:35 WIB
Cabinet Secretary Teddy Surprised as Citizens Queue to Enter Merdeka Palace from 3 AM
Public enthusiasm for Indonesia's 81st Independence Day celebrations at Merdeka Palace was evident from the early hours of Monday morning, with citizens queuing from 3 AM. Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya noted that attendees wore traditional attire and some had travelled from as far as Makassar and Kebumen. Facilities including free culinary offerings and children's games were prepared at the Monas area for those without palace invitations.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 07:34 WIB
Public Urged to Stand at Attention at 10.17 WIB During Proclamation Anniversary
The Indonesian government has called on all citizens to pause their activities and stand at attention on 17 August 2026 at 10.17 WIB as the national flag is raised at Merdeka Palace. The instruction, issued by the Minister of State Secretary, forms part of the official guidelines for the 81st Independence Day commemoration. Exceptions apply to activities where stopping could endanger lives or disrupt essential public services.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 07:33 WIB
Yesterday: 'Hari Merdeka' song released, earthquake-affected BTS restored
A roundup of Sunday's news covers the release of a new arrangement of the patriotic song 'Hari Merdeka', the Ministry of Culture's monitoring of cultural assets after a 7.7-magnitude earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara, and the restoration of 86 per cent of affected base transceiver stations. The Ministry of Communication and Digital reported that 794 BTS sites were identified as damaged across 11 regencies and cities, with recovery efforts ongoing.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 07:31 WIB
Puan Maharani Marks Indonesia's 81st Independence Day: A Momentum to Strengthen Unity and Sovereignty
House Speaker Puan Maharani has called on Indonesians to use the 81st anniversary of independence as a moment to reinforce national unity, uphold sovereignty, and pursue justice and prosperity. She emphasised the spirit of mutual cooperation as essential for building a more advanced and dignified Indonesia. Her remarks echo the official anniversary theme of 'A Sovereign, Just, and Prosperous Indonesia'.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 07:31 WIB
Purbaya Opens Possibility of New Taxes in 2027, but Waits for Economic Growth
Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has indicated that the government remains open to introducing new taxes in 2027, provided economic growth remains consistently strong. He stressed that any new tax measures would only be considered after sustained growth of around 6% and would take into account public purchasing power.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 07:30 WIB
Drug Syndicate Leads Uncovered from Malaysian Pilot's Interrogation
A Malaysia Airlines pilot arrested at Soekarno-Hatta Airport for smuggling over 26 kg of ecstasy and methamphetamine has reportedly been involved in drug trafficking since 2024. Malaysian police say the suspect has provided information on drug syndicates operating in Malaysia and other countries, including Indonesia. The case has prompted further investigation into how the drugs evaded airport security checks.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 07:30 WIB
The First 8 Countries to Recognise Indonesia's Independence
Indonesia's independence was secured not only through its own struggle but also through early diplomatic recognition from friendly nations. Egypt became the first country to formally recognise Indonesian sovereignty in March 1946, followed by several Arab and other states. Palestine had expressed support even earlier, in 1944, before Indonesia declared independence.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 07:29 WIB
USS Abraham Lincoln Under Strain After 260 Days, CENTCOM Commander Visits, Iran Yet to Fall
The prolonged deployment of the USS Abraham Lincoln has raised concerns about crew welfare, with the carrier spending more than 240 consecutive days at sea and over 200 days without a port call. CENTCOM commander Admiral Brad Cooper visited the vessel to defend crew resilience, while family members and military media report declining morale and alleged incidents of sailors attempting to jump overboard. The deployment underscores the extended nature of the US-led conflict with Iran, which began in February 2026 and has forced repeated extensions of the carrier's mission.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 07:27 WIB
House member praises swift response to NTT earthquake
House of Representatives Commission VIII member Selly Andriany Gantina has commended the rapid response of central and regional governments, the military, police and disaster agencies to the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. She urged accurate data collection on victims and affected communities, alongside immediate fulfilment of needs in evacuation shelters. The government has so far distributed 52 tonnes of aid, with an additional 25 tonnes arriving on the second day of the disaster response.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 07:27 WIB
Pertamina to Donate Rp81 per Litre of Pertamax and Dex Purchases for NTT
PT Pertamina Patra Niaga has launched a charity initiative donating Rp81 from every litre of Pertamax Series and Dex Series fuel purchased through the MyPertamina app to support disaster-affected communities in East Nusa Tenggara. The programme runs from 17 to 31 August 2026 and applies to non-subsidised fuel purchases. The company hopes collective participation will provide meaningful assistance for the region's recovery.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 07:27 WIB
Police Chief: Polri successfully reaches three isolated locations affected by earthquake
East Nusa Tenggara Police have reopened access to three areas on Flores Island that were cut off by earthquake-triggered landslides. Personnel delivered food, water and medicine, and evacuated a pregnant woman suffering from premature labour complications. The police chief urged residents to report any victims still awaiting assistance.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 07:27 WIB
Myanmar leader visits Russia to meet Putin
Myanmar's leader Min Aung Hlaing is in Moscow for official talks with President Vladimir Putin, with discussions expected to cover expanded bilateral cooperation and current international and regional issues. The visit underscores the close political and defence ties between Russia and Myanmar, where Moscow is involved in energy and infrastructure projects. Several bilateral documents are expected to be signed during the visit.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 07:27 WIB
Residents Share Stories of Arriving in the Early Hours to Experience the Euphoria of Indonesia's 81st Independence Day at the Palace
Members of the public showed remarkable enthusiasm to attend the 81st Indonesian Independence Day ceremony at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta, with some preparing from as early as 3 a.m. Participants wore traditional attire from various regions to celebrate the nation's diversity. Several attendees noted that obtaining tickets this year was more difficult than in previous years due to a new queueing and verification system.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 07:26 WIB
Merdeka Palace Atmosphere Ahead of the 81st Indonesian Independence Day Proclamation Seconds Ceremony
President Prabowo Subianto is set to lead the proclamation seconds ceremony for Indonesia's 81st Independence Day at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta. Cabinet members and thousands of invited guests, many dressed in traditional attire, have gathered for the event. State Secretary Minister Prasetyo Hadi has confirmed that preparations are nearly complete, with the palace ready to host the commemoration.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 07:23 WIB
Police conduct routine patrols in earthquake zone to prevent theft and looting
East Nusa Tenggara Police have stepped up patrols in residential areas left empty after the Flores earthquake to prevent looting and theft. The force is also prioritising distribution of food, clean water and medicine to more than 7,600 displaced people. Police headquarters has supplied tents, blankets and mattresses for independent evacuees still living in limited facilities.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 07:23 WIB
Government Designates Jakarta and Bali as International Financial Centre Locations
The Indonesian government has designated Jakarta as the initial operational base for the Indonesia International Financial Centre (PFII) to capitalise on global investment momentum, with Bali planned as a subsequent development site. Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani said Jakarta was chosen so the institution could begin operating immediately without waiting for physical construction, while Bali offers the added advantage of boosting tourism through the spending power of foreign investors. President Prabowo Subianto had previously announced the PFII plan in his state address to the DPR.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 07:20 WIB
Residents queue since early morning to attend 81st Indonesian Independence Day ceremony at the Palace
Members of the public began queuing as early as 2 a.m. to attend the 81st anniversary of Indonesia's independence at Merdeka Palace in Jakarta. Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya spoke with attendees who had travelled from regions including South Sulawesi and Central Java. The government prepared 16,000 seats for the two ceremony sessions, with 80 percent allocated to the general public.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 07:18 WIB
Geological Agency: Anak Krakatau records 8 eruptions with incandescent lava
Mount Anak Krakatau in South Lampung experienced eight eruptions accompanied by incandescent lava flows during a 24-hour observation period, according to the Geological Agency of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources. The volcano remains at Level III (Siaga) alert status, with seismic instruments recording multiple eruption, gust, harmonic tremor, and hybrid earthquakes. Authorities have issued strict recommendations prohibiting access within a three-kilometre radius of the active crater.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 07:18 WIB
81st Independence Day: KRL, LRT and Transjakarta fares only Rp 8
Public transport operators in Jakarta will charge a flat fare of Rp 8 on 17 August 2026 to mark Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. The special fare applies to KRL Commuter Line, LRT Jabodebek and Transjakarta services. Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung said the decision was taken after coordination with the central government.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 07:15 WIB
Egypt, US call for implementation of Gaza ceasefire agreement
Egypt and the United States have urged all parties in the Gaza Strip to fulfil their obligations under the ceasefire agreement reached at the Sharm El-Sheikh Peace Summit in October 2025. The call came after Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi met with US Special Envoy Jared Kushner in El-Alamein. Both sides stressed the importance of coordination between Cairo and Washington to maintain regional stability.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 07:15 WIB
List of Public Transport with Special 17 August Fares, from KRL to MRT at Rp8
The Indonesian government is offering special fares on several public transport services on 17 August 2026 to mark the 81st anniversary of independence. Commuter rail, LRT, MRT and TransJakarta services are charging a flat fare of Rp8, while economy-class long, medium and local distance trains are discounted by 17%. The Ministry of Transportation has urged passengers to maintain order and comfort during the celebrations.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 07:13 WIB
Towards Astra's 70th Anniversary: Creating and Growing Together with Indonesia
Astra has officially launched its 70th anniversary logo with the theme 'Creating and Growing Together with Indonesia' at an event in Jakarta, marking the start of celebrations leading up to February 2027. The company highlighted its nearly seven decades of contribution to Indonesia, including benefits for over 16 million people through employment and social programmes. Astra also announced it would donate a portion of ticket sales from the event to support earthquake victims in East Nusa Tenggara.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 07:10 WIB
Sleman Farmer Shares Tips for Growing Jumbo Pineapples Using Used Water Gallons
A young farmer in Sleman, Yogyakarta, has successfully cultivated jumbo pineapples weighing up to 5 kilograms using repurposed water gallons as planting containers. Jamaludin Nur Ridho of Jamal Farm shared his method, which turns plastic waste into a productive urban farming medium. The technique has been adopted by neighbouring villagers, with harvests averaging 2 kilograms per fruit and selling for around Rp 30,000 per kilogram.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 07:08 WIB
Hundreds of Students in Karo Suffer Food Poisoning After Eating Free Nutritious Meals, BGN Reveals Negligence in Fish Storage
Hundreds of students in Karo Regency, North Sumatra, reportedly suffered suspected food poisoning after consuming meals from the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has attributed the incident to negligence in food handling and storage, with around 200 to 300 fish left at room temperature for over 12 hours. BGN has pledged strict sanctions, including suspension of the kitchen and possible dismissal of the responsible SPPG head.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 07:07 WIB
List of 21 Parking Areas Around Monas to Bundaran HI for Indonesia's 81st Independence Day
The Jakarta administration has prepared 21 parking locations with a total capacity of 20,578 spaces to accommodate visitors attending the 81st Independence Day celebrations on 17 August 2026. The parking areas are spread from Monas, Sarinah, Bundaran HI, to Dukuh Atas, with provisions for cars, motorcycles, and buses. The initiative aims to support public mobility amid traffic engineering measures during the festivities.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 07:02 WIB
Traumatised by Flores Earthquake, 50 Families in Selayar Remain on Hillsides
Around 50 families in Selayar Islands Regency, South Sulawesi, are still sheltering in the hills due to trauma from the recent M7.0 Flores earthquake and memories of the devastating 2021 quake. While most evacuees have returned home, these residents commute daily from the hills to avoid night-time aftershocks. The earthquake also damaged 13 houses and several fishing boats in the area.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 07:00 WIB
Full Schedule for the 81st Indonesian Independence Day Ceremony at the State Palace
The Indonesian government will hold two ceremonies at the State Palace in Jakarta on 17 August 2026 to mark the 81st anniversary of independence. The President will act as inspector of ceremonies, with attendance from state institution leaders, cabinet ministers, and foreign ambassadors. The public has been asked to pause activities for three minutes at 10.17 WIB while the national anthem is played and the flag is raised.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 07:00 WIB
Assessing Prabowo's 6% Growth Target: Between Ambition and Economic Reality
President Prabowo Subianto has set an ambitious 6% economic growth target for 2027, but economists question its realism given the fiscal consolidation outlined in the draft state budget. New initiatives such as public facility renovations, the Indonesia Financial Centre, and the Danantara Development Management Fund are seen as unlikely to deliver immediate multiplier effects. Analysts argue the target serves more as a policy anchor and market signal than a technically realistic projection.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 07:00 WIB
BRI Distributes Aid to Flores Residents Affected by Earthquake
State-owned lender BRI has distributed emergency relief to communities in Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, following a magnitude 7.7 earthquake. The assistance includes food, water, cooking oil, rice and medicines, prioritising the worst-hit areas in Sikka and Nagekeo regencies. BRI has also secured its assets and is coordinating with authorities to restore banking services as quickly as possible.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 06:58 WIB
Police Uncover Indian Nationals Smuggling Nearly One Tonne of Gold in a Month
Indonesia's Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim) has arrested two Indian nationals in North Jakarta for allegedly running an illegal gold smuggling operation that shipped nearly one tonne of gold abroad in a single month. The suspects are believed to have processed up to 30 kilograms of gold per day, sourced from illegal mining, before smuggling it to Dubai. Police seized gold bars, processing residue, equipment, and cash, and are coordinating with the Indian Embassy on the suspects' legal status.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 06:55 WIB
Ministers to Mark Independence Day with NTT Earthquake Victims
Several ministers from the Red and White Cabinet will celebrate Indonesia's 81st Independence Day alongside residents affected by the 7.7-magnitude earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. The move follows President Prabowo Subianto's directive for direct, coordinated on-the-ground disaster response. Officials will be deployed across affected areas to oversee emergency relief and ensure critical needs are met.