Archive: 17 August 2026
Showing 151-200 of 1,319 articles
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 21:00 WIB
BI Launches Indonesian Credit Card, No Longer Solely Reliant on Visa and Others
Bank Indonesia has officially launched the Indonesian Credit Card (KKI) for the retail segment as a domestic alternative to international payment networks such as Visa and Mastercard. The launch, held on 17 August 2026 to coincide with Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, is part of the central bank's efforts to strengthen the national payment system and support economic growth. The card will initially be issued in digital form for QRIS transactions, with several major banks participating in the first phase.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 21:00 WIB
Government Does Not Yet Need Foreign Aid for NTT Earthquake, Prasetyo Hadi Explains Why
State Secretary Minister Prasetyo Hadi has stated that Indonesia is still capable of handling the aftermath of the magnitude 7 earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara without foreign assistance. The government is continuing to monitor the situation and has begun identifying needs for temporary and permanent housing for affected residents. Search and rescue personnel remain on standby in seven affected districts, with no reports of missing persons.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 21:00 WIB
Superheroes Join in the Fun at Indonesia's Independence Day Races
Residents of Cimahi, West Java, celebrated Indonesia's 81st Independence Day by donning superhero costumes for traditional races such as sack racing and tug-of-war. The festivities served not only as entertainment but also as a means to strengthen community bonds and the spirit of mutual cooperation.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 21:00 WIB
Industry Opens Job Access for Local Residents in Tanggamus
A bottled water factory in Tanggamus, Lampung, has become a major source of employment and skills training for local residents, with around 90 percent of its workforce drawn from surrounding communities. The company has invested in local human resource development since 2016, enabling former farmers and casual labourers to gain technical skills and formal qualifications. Alongside job creation, the firm has implemented environmental and community programmes, including tree planting, coffee farmer mentoring, clean water access, and biodiversity conservation.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:59 WIB
Solemn Moment as Citizens Sing Indonesia Raya During 81st Independence Day Celebration at HI Roundabout
Citizens gathered at the Hotel Indonesia Roundabout in Central Jakarta to commemorate Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, standing at attention while singing the national anthem. The event featured interactive quizzes with prizes and entertainment, drawing residents from across the capital. Attendees expressed joy at receiving household prizes, with one participant planning to give her stove to her mother.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:59 WIB
Cabinet Secretariat and National Nutrition Agency Floats Steal the Show at Independence Night Carnival
Thirty-two decorated floats took part in the Independence Night carnival in Central Jakarta to mark Indonesia's 81st anniversary. The floats from the Cabinet Secretariat and the National Nutrition Agency drew the most attention from spectators. The procession moved from Merdeka Barat towards the Hotel Indonesia roundabout, with crowds cheering and capturing the moment.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:58 WIB
Pertamina Deploys 11 Fuel Tankers from Bima to Flores to Restore Supply After NTT Earthquake
Pertamina Patra Niaga has dispatched 11 fuel tankers and one avtur tanker from Bima to Labuan Bajo to accelerate the normalisation of energy distribution following the Flores earthquake. The company is redirecting supplies to operational filling stations and prioritising the restoration of remaining closed outlets. As of the latest update, 47 of 52 petrol stations have resumed operations.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:58 WIB
Industry Minister: Spirit of independence realised through synergy to boost industry
Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita has called for synergy and collective effort to strengthen Indonesia's national industry, emphasising that a resilient, independent, and competitive industrial sector will improve public welfare. Speaking at the Ministry of Industry's 81st Independence Day commemoration, he highlighted the strategic potential of the fashion and Nusantara textile industry, particularly modest fashion, to generate added value and promote local culture.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:57 WIB
Public can share hopes for Indonesia at Bundaran HI area
An interactive screen titled 'Aku dan Indonesia' has been installed at Bundaran HI in Central Jakarta, allowing the public to submit their hopes for Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. Visitors can scan a barcode, take a photo, and write messages that are then displayed on the screen. Several attendees expressed hopes for national progress, an end to corruption, and support for earthquake victims in East Nusa Tenggara.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:57 WIB
Inside JB’s RTS Link station: 25-minute target from concourse to train, high-tech scanners planned
Malaysian authorities are targeting a 25-minute clearance time for passengers at Johor Bahru's Bukit Chagar RTS Link station, which will feature advanced body scanners, e-gates, and a joint operations control centre. The 4km cross-border rail service, expected to launch by early 2027, aims to ease Causeway congestion by moving up to 10,000 passengers per hour each way. A 409m pedestrian linkway will connect the station to nearby malls and JB Sentral, improving regional transport integration.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:56 WIB
Fadly Amran Supports Distribution of 5 Tonnes of Rendang for NTT Earthquake Victims
Padang Mayor Fadly Amran has backed a humanitarian initiative by Minangkabau cultural and economic organisations to send five tonnes of rendang to communities affected by the 15 August 2026 earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. The first 700 kilograms have already been dispatched via Indonesian Air Force flights, with the remainder to be sent in stages. The effort highlights the spirit of mutual assistance among the Minangkabau community in responding to disasters.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:55 WIB
Indonesian Embassy staff in Yangon receive presidential honours on Independence Day
Two staff members of the Indonesian Embassy in Yangon were awarded state honours by President Prabowo Subianto during the 81st Indonesian Independence Day ceremony. The awards recognised 30 and 20 years of service respectively. The ceremony also involved Indonesian students and local cultural enthusiasts, underscoring diplomatic and community ties between Indonesia and Myanmar.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:55 WIB
PNM Provides Logistics Aid for Employees and Customers Affected by NTT Earthquake
State-owned PT Permodalan Nasional Madani (PNM) is conducting an inventory of employees and customers affected by the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara to ensure their safety and identify urgent needs. The company has begun distributing emergency logistics, including food, drinking water, and hygiene supplies, starting in Manggarai Regency. PNM aims to support the recovery of ultra-micro businesses once basic needs are met.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:55 WIB
On Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, Kowani strengthens women's role in development
The Indonesian Women's Congress (Kowani) has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting government policies on women's empowerment, economic strengthening, and family welfare. Chairwoman Nannie Hadi Tjanjanto emphasised that independence should serve as a reminder for Indonesian women to take an active role in national development. Kowani's network of 129 women's organisations is positioned to extend the reach of government programmes to grassroots communities.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:54 WIB
Abdul's Story of Attending Independence Day Celebration at Bundaran HI: Wanted to See Carnival and Dance
Abdul Hadi Zamzami, a resident of Tanah Abang, Central Jakarta, attended the 81st Indonesian Independence Day celebration at Bundaran HI for the first time, seeking entertainment and winning an iron in an interactive quiz. He expressed hopes for a safer Indonesia, stable economy, and improved conditions in Jakarta.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:52 WIB
The Dark Trail of 'Bos Gendut': From Parking Attendant to Kampung Bahari Drug Lord
Muhammad Ridwan, known as 'Bos Gendut', rose from parking attendant to become a major drug distributor in Kampung Bahari, North Jakarta. He was arrested in August 2026 after nearly a year on the run, having been linked to 98 kilograms of methamphetamine seized in November 2025. His capture triggered resistance from loyalists who attacked officers with stones and firecrackers.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:52 WIB
NTT Earthquake Update: 4,541 Homes Affected
The 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck East Nusa Tenggara on 15 August 2026 has damaged at least 4,541 homes across seven regencies, according to the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB). More than 60 people have died, and over 1,500 aftershocks have been recorded, with seismic activity expected to stabilise within two to three weeks.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:52 WIB
Netanyahu Campaign Ad Depicts Zohran Mamdani Alongside Iranian and Hezbollah Leaders
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's Likud party has sparked controversy with a campaign advert that places New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani alongside the leaders of Iran and Hezbollah. The advert, aired ahead of Israel's October general election, follows a public dispute over Mamdani's calls for the enforcement of an ICC arrest warrant against Netanyahu. The row has drawn in former US President Donald Trump, who has publicly stated that Netanyahu will not be arrested on American soil.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:48 WIB
Residents Enthusiastically Watch Independence Day Carnival at Patung Kuda, Some Bring Folding Chairs
Jakarta residents gathered at the Patung Kuda roundabout to watch the Malam Merdeka creative carnival celebrating Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. Families arrived early with folding chairs to ensure their children could comfortably enjoy the festivities. Attendees described the annual event as both entertainment and an educational experience for their children.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:48 WIB
Study: Many Smokers Unaware of Dangers to Heart and Brain
A global study reveals that many smokers remain unaware that smoking and second-hand smoke increase the risk of heart attack and stroke, despite decades of public health messaging. Researchers found knowledge gaps have barely improved in nearly two decades, with awareness of cardiovascular risks lagging behind that of lung cancer. Experts are calling for stronger, sustained public education campaigns and more effective health warnings on tobacco products.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:46 WIB
Four foreign inmates freed as Bali grants Independence Day remissions
Bali granted sentence remissions to 3,026 inmates for Indonesia's Independence Day, with 101 released immediately, including four foreign nationals. The reductions were based on behaviour and participation in correctional programmes, while Australian inmate Lamar Aaron Ahchee was denied remission after being found with a mobile phone. The move is intended to encourage discipline and reintegration into society.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:46 WIB
Merdeka Night seen as economic driver down to the regions
Creative Economy Minister Teuku Riefky Harsya says the Merdeka Night series for Indonesia's 81st Independence Day can generate real economic impact, including in the regions. He argues that independence celebrations are a chance to turn cultural wealth and creativity into value-added economic activity. The event at Monas is expected to involve around 600,000 people and 600 MSME stalls.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:46 WIB
81st Indonesian Independence Day: Benyamin Says Freedom Must Be Filled with Real Work, Not Just Celebration
South Tangerang Mayor Benyamin Davnie has urged citizens to honour Indonesia's independence through tangible contributions rather than mere celebration. Speaking at the city's 81st Independence Day ceremony, he highlighted both the municipality's recent national awards and the development challenges that remain.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:46 WIB
Vocational Education Innovation: RPG Game-Based Learning Media
Teachers at SMK Bina Mandiri Tangerang have adopted role-playing game technology as a classroom learning medium, aiming to create a more interactive and relevant learning environment for Generation Z. The initiative was supported by a community service grant from the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology for the 2026 fiscal year. The programme is expected to improve vocational graduate quality and readiness for industry challenges.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:45 WIB
Bank Mandiri Rolls Out Various Independence Day Promotions for Customers, Here's the List
Bank Mandiri has launched a series of special promotions under its FOMO programme to celebrate Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, offering discounts and cashback across dining, retail, e-commerce, and banking products. The promotions, available through Livin' by Mandiri and other payment channels, include special prices starting at Rp17,000 and discounts of up to Rp1.7 million. The programme runs until 23 August 2026 and forms part of the bank's strategy to enhance customer engagement and digital banking adoption.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:43 WIB
Home Affairs Minister Distributes Compensation to Heirs of NTT Earthquake Victims
Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian has distributed compensation of Rp15 million per deceased victim to the heirs of those killed in the earthquake in East Manggarai, East Nusa Tenggara. The central government, through the Ministry of Social Affairs, is also providing an additional Rp15 million per victim. The minister also handed over generators, field beds, and Rp200 million to support emergency response efforts in the affected villages.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:43 WIB
President Prabowo Attends People's Party for Indonesia's Independence Day at Monas, Sits Alongside Gibran
President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka attended the People's Party at the National Monument (Monas) in Jakarta on Monday evening to mark Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. The event featured traditional games, cultural performances, a drone show, and fireworks, with free food provided for attendees. The government also prepared prizes for members of the public participating in the various competitions.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:42 WIB
Three Housewives Delighted to Win Stoves at Independence Day Quiz in HI
Three women attending the 81st Indonesian Independence Day celebrations at the Bundaran HI in Central Jakarta won stoves in a quiz. They shared their hopes for lower taxes, increased pension benefits, stable food prices, and no rise in BPJS premiums.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:41 WIB
Prabowo Summons Commanders of 81st Independence Day Flag-Lowering Ceremony
President Prabowo Subianto requested the parade commander, corps of music commander, and all unit commanders involved in the 81st Indonesian Independence Day flag-lowering ceremony to report to him at Merdeka Palace. The President expressed appreciation for the orderly and solemn conduct of the ceremony. The commanders included senior police officer Kombes Pol Jerrold Hendra Yosef Kumontoy and Air Force Captain Bagus Setianto.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:40 WIB
Trade Minister Hands Over Rp250 Million in Aid for NTT Earthquake Victims
Trade Minister Budi Santoso has handed over Rp250 million in donations to assist communities affected by the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. The aid was symbolically presented to the NTT Provincial Liaison Agency during Indonesia's 81st Independence Day commemoration at the Ministry of Trade. The minister also highlighted damage to four traditional markets, including Pasar Inpres Ruteng in Manggarai, and confirmed that essential goods distribution remains secure.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:39 WIB
Tourist Boats to Komodo National Park Continue Sailing Amid Aftershocks
Tourist vessels are still permitted to sail to Komodo National Park and surrounding areas despite ongoing aftershocks in the region. The harbour master's office in Labuan Bajo continues to issue sailing permits because the aftershocks are weaker than the initial magnitude 7.7 earthquake and carry no tsunami potential. More than 1,600 aftershocks have been recorded in Flores since the main earthquake on Saturday.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:38 WIB
Central Aceh Government Accelerates Mendale Area Revitalisation to Restore Economy
The Central Aceh administration is fast-tracking the revitalisation of the Mendale tourist area on the shores of Lake Lut Tawar, aiming to complete the work before December 2026 to boost economic recovery ahead of the year-end holidays. The project, supported by approximately Rp5 billion from the Ministry of Public Works, includes clearing mud and debris, building safety embankments, and improving pedestrian paths. Local officials report that tourism is gradually returning, though only four of 32 affected kiosks have reopened so far.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:38 WIB
Thousands of Food MSMEs Involved in Independence Day Celebrations at Palace and Monas
State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi announced that thousands of food micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) were involved in the 81st Independence Day celebrations at the Presidential Palace and Monas. The MSMEs, including those mentored by the Jakarta provincial government and Istiqlal Mosque, provided free food to ceremony attendees. The initiative highlights government efforts to support small businesses during national events.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:36 WIB
Indonesian Creative Industry Grows More Aggressive in Targeting Streetwear Fashion Fans
Indonesian streetwear brand Cosmonauts has launched a licensed collaboration with Japanese anime icon Voltes V, blending classic mecha heritage with modern urban fashion. The collection, supervised by TOEI Co Ltd and facilitated by Victory Licensing, aims to bridge generations of fans while demonstrating the economic potential of global intellectual property for Indonesia's creative industry.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:36 WIB
Regent Mahayastra Receives LVRI Star Award
Gianyar Regent I Made Agus Mahayastra has been awarded the Bintang Legiun Veteran Republik Indonesia (LVRI) in recognition of his contributions to the veterans' organisation and the strengthening of national values. The award was presented as Indonesia marked its 81st anniversary of independence. Mahayastra emphasised that independence must now be filled with efforts to improve public welfare and overcome poverty and ignorance.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:35 WIB
Ministry celebrates Independence Day with elderly amid ageing population
Indonesia's Ministry of Population and Family Development marked the 81st Independence Day by involving elderly citizens, highlighting the need to anticipate the country's growing ageing population. The ministry warned that the rising proportion of older people must be addressed to avoid problems seen in countries that aged earlier. Programmes such as Elderly Schools and Elderly Entrepreneur initiatives aim to keep seniors productive ahead of the 2045 demographic bonus.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:35 WIB
Latest Facts in Malaysian Pilot Case Reveal Drug Syndicate Clues
Malaysian police have disclosed that a Malaysia Airlines pilot arrested in Indonesia for allegedly smuggling more than 26 kg of narcotics had been operating since 2024 and has provided information on drug syndicates in Malaysia and Indonesia. The suspect remains in Indonesian custody and will face legal proceedings there, while Malaysian authorities plan to investigate identified syndicate members and share international network information with relevant countries.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:34 WIB
81st Indonesian Independence Day Celebrations Liven Up LRT Jabodebek with Passengers
LRT Jabodebek marked Indonesia's 81st Independence Day with interactive games and quizzes for passengers at three stations. Frontline staff wore red-and-white attire, and the operator extended operating hours and offered a special Rp 8 fare on 17 August. The initiative aimed to bring the spirit of independence directly to the public through safe, comfortable and integrated public transport.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:34 WIB
Prabowo and Gibran Side by Side Watch Independence Carnival at Monas
President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka attended the 'Bersatu Harmoni Nusantara' carnival at the National Monument in Jakarta as part of Indonesia's 81st Independence Day celebrations. The parade featured decorated vehicles from various ministries showcasing government priority programmes such as food self-sufficiency, free nutritious meals, and the three million houses scheme. The event highlighted the administration's policy agenda while celebrating national unity and cultural diversity.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:33 WIB
Indonesian Embassy in Washington engages young diaspora as flag-raising troop, fostering love for Indonesia
The Indonesian Embassy in Washington D.C. involved 17 young Indonesian diaspora members as the flag-raising troop for the 81st Independence Day ceremony. Ambassador Indroyono Soesilo emphasised that becoming a flag-raising troop member carries the honour of the Red and White and shows that love for Indonesia is not limited by distance. The initiative aims to nurture national spirit and strengthen ties with the homeland among young Indonesians abroad.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:33 WIB
BNPB Provides Latest Update on NTT Earthquake: No More Residents Reported Missing
The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has confirmed that no residents remain missing following the earthquake that struck parts of East Nusa Tenggara (NTT). Health services are being reinforced with the deployment of two field hospitals and crisis management teams to affected areas. The Ministry of Health has also activated its Health Emergency Operation Center across nine strategic locations.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:33 WIB
Jasa Marga Strengthens Commitment to Connectivity and Service Quality
State-owned toll road operator PT Jasa Marga has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining national connectivity and improving toll road service quality as part of its contribution to public mobility, goods distribution, and economic growth. The company marked Indonesia's 81st Independence Day by highlighting its operational strengthening, digitalisation efforts, and collaboration with government stakeholders. Jasa Marga currently manages 36 toll road concessions totalling 1,736 km, with 1,294 km in commercial operation representing a 42% market share.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:30 WIB
81 Years of Indonesian Independence: The Rise and Fall of the Economy from Soekarno to Prabowo
Indonesia's economic growth has fluctuated dramatically over 81 years of independence, from the instability of the Soekarno era to the record highs and devastating lows under Soeharto. The article traces the country's economic journey through successive presidencies, highlighting periods of crisis, recovery, and relative stability. It provides a historical overview of GDP growth, inflation, and key policy shifts that have shaped the nation's economic trajectory.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:30 WIB
100 Sekolah Rakyat students perform at 81st Independence Day ceremony at the Palace
One hundred students from Sekolah Rakyat schools across Indonesia performed at the 81st Independence Day ceremony at Merdeka Palace in Jakarta. The students sang 'Hari Merdeka' alongside the Gita Bahana Nusantara National Choir, with seven of them being national-level achievers in fields such as mathematics, biology, scientific writing, pencak silat, and choir. The performance was part of the independence commemoration attended by President Prabowo Subianto.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:27 WIB
KPK will not pursue ethics violation against police officer named as suspect
The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has stated it will not pursue alleged ethics violations by Setya Budi Dias, a police officer assigned to the KPK who was named a suspect in an extortion case in Pemalang Regency. KPK spokesperson Budi Prasetyo said Dias is no longer part of the commission, so the matter falls outside the KPK's ethics enforcement. The KPK will still conduct evaluations to prevent similar cases.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:27 WIB
Prabowo and Gibran attend Independence Carnival at Monas
President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka attended the 'Bersatu Harmoni Nusantara Carnival' at the National Monument in Jakarta as part of Indonesia's 81st Independence Day celebrations. The parade featured floats from various ministries highlighting government programmes such as free nutritious meals, food and energy self-sufficiency, and the three million houses scheme. The event also included musical performances, an SME culinary area, fireworks, and a drone show.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:27 WIB
170 Cendrawasih Police Academy personnel enliven 81st Independence Day parade
A total of 170 members of the Cendrawasih Drum Corps from the Indonesian Police Academy performed during the ceremonial parade of the Garuda Prabayeksa heirloom carriage at Merdeka Palace in Jakarta. The corps served as the official marching band, symbolising pride, honour, and cadet identity within the police force. Their performance featured percussion, brass, cymbals, and a colour guard, adding artistic and visual grandeur to the national independence celebration.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:24 WIB
Minister Nusron confirms 87 percent LP2B verification to be completed this year
Minister of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/Head of the National Land Agency (ATR/BPN) Nusron Wahid has confirmed that verification of Sustainable Food Agricultural Land (LP2B) will reach 87 percent this year, ahead of the 2029 target set by presidential regulation. Nationally, verification has reached 86.08 percent, covering 29 of 38 provinces, with Banten the only province on Java still below target at around 75 percent. The ministry is exploring legal breakthroughs, including the possibility of developers replacing agricultural land outside Banten, to address land constraints caused by industrial and housing development.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:23 WIB
Warm Moment as Adi Arnawa Gives Gifts to Veterans After Independence Day Ceremony
Badung Regent I Wayan Adi Arnawa presented gifts to a disabled woman and representatives of the Badung Veterans Legion after the 81st Independence Day ceremony. The gesture was described as a form of respect and social concern by the Badung administration. Adi Arnawa emphasised the region's commitment to poverty alleviation and attention to all levels of society.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:23 WIB
Former Deputy Manpower Minister Ebenezer Receives One-Month Remission on Indonesia's 81st Independence Day
Immanuel Ebenezer, the former deputy minister of manpower, was granted a one-month sentence reduction as part of Indonesia's 81st Independence Day remissions. He was among 20,500 prisoners in West Java who received remissions, with 346 of them being released immediately. The remissions were awarded to inmates demonstrating good behaviour and participation in prison programmes.