Archive: 17 August 2026
Showing 201-250 of 1,319 articles
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:23 WIB
Cabinet Secretary Teddy joins Nusantara Harmony Unity Carnival 2026
Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya participated in the Nusantara Harmony Unity Carnival at Monas, Jakarta, alongside the Cabinet Secretariat team. The event was attended by President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka. The carnival was held to commemorate the 81st anniversary of the Republic of Indonesia.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:22 WIB
Megawati Reflects on the Meaning of Independence and Indonesia's Future at the 81st Anniversary of the Republic
PDI Perjuangan chairwoman Megawati Soekarnoputri used the 81st Independence Day ceremony to reflect on the sacrifices behind Indonesian independence and to criticise current inequalities in law enforcement and welfare. She warned against tampering with the national health insurance scheme and condemned resource exploitation that enriches only a few. Megawati also urged the younger generation to learn from global geopolitics and to remain resilient.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:21 WIB
Indonesian Ambassador in Bangkok: Independence Day a moment to preserve national spirit
Indonesia's Ambassador to Thailand, Hari Prabowo, has called on Indonesian citizens abroad to maintain their national spirit and contribute to the country's future. Speaking at the 81st Independence Day ceremony in Bangkok, he emphasised the role of the diaspora as a bridge between Indonesia and the world. The celebrations also included a symposium for Indonesian students in Asia and Oceania and will culminate in a diplomatic reception.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:20 WIB
Basarnas: East Manggarai Severely Affected, 55 Dead
The National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas) reports that East Manggarai Regency is among the worst-hit areas following a magnitude 7.7 earthquake in Flores. As of Monday afternoon, 187 people have been recorded as victims, including 55 fatalities and 132 injured. Basarnas and the Ministry of Home Affairs are coordinating a large-scale search and rescue operation involving hundreds of personnel.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:20 WIB
Independence Day: Freedom Loses Meaning Without Job Creation
The Association of All Indonesian Workers' Unions (Aspirasi) has called on the government to address the ongoing wave of layoffs and ensure that independence translates into decent jobs, fair wages, and social protection for all workers. Aspirasi president Mirah Sumirat highlighted discrepancies in layoff figures between agencies and urged stronger labour supervision, social dialogue, and the passage of the Asset Seizure Bill to combat corruption and boost investment confidence. The union stressed that economic growth must create quality formal employment, warning that independence loses its meaning if people still struggle to find work.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:20 WIB
Independence Day: Freedom Loses Meaning Without Job Creation
The Association of All Indonesian Workers' Unions (Aspirasi) has called on the government to address the ongoing wave of layoffs and prioritise job creation as part of the nation's independence. Aspirasi President Mirah Sumirat urged concrete measures to protect workers, strengthen labour supervision, and pass the Asset Seizure Bill to combat corruption, which she said undermines investment and job growth. The union emphasised that independence must be felt by all Indonesians, not just those with capital and power.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:20 WIB
Sarinah and Buttonscarves present Songket Collection to enliven Indonesia's 81st Independence Day
State-owned enterprise Sarinah has partnered with local fashion brand Buttonscarves to launch a Songket Collection celebrating Indonesia's 81st Independence Day and Sarinah's 64th anniversary. The collaboration aims to bring traditional woven textiles closer to contemporary women's fashion while promoting local artisans. Creative economy data shows fashion and craft subsectors were the largest contributors to exports in the January–November 2025 period.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:18 WIB
Ebola Outbreak Now Deadliest in Congo, Death Toll Exceeds 2,300
The Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo has become the deadliest in the country's history, with over 2,300 deaths recorded in just three months. The World Health Organization has described it as the fastest-growing outbreak ever recorded, with one death every 30 minutes. Weak community engagement, conflict, and inadequate health infrastructure are hampering the response.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:17 WIB
President Prabowo Requests Ceremony Commanders of Indonesia's 81st Independence Day to Face the Palace
President Prabowo Subianto instructed all ceremony commanders involved in the flag-lowering ceremony for Indonesia's 81st Independence Day to report to him after the event at Merdeka Palace. The President expressed appreciation for the solemn and dedicated performance of the ceremony personnel. The event concluded with a procession returning the national flag and proclamation text to the National Monument.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:15 WIB
Good News! BI Makes QRIS Transactions Free for All Merchants
Bank Indonesia has announced an expansion of its 0% Merchant Discount Rate policy for QRIS transactions up to Rp100,000 across all merchant categories, effective 1 October 2026. The move aims to reduce transaction costs, boost digital payment adoption, and support purchasing power. The policy was launched alongside the implementation of the Indonesian Credit Card for the retail segment.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:14 WIB
Cibubur, East Jakarta celebrates Indonesia's 81st Independence Day with games and waste sorting
Cibubur subdistrict in East Jakarta marked Indonesia's 81st Independence Day with a series of community competitions, including a waste sorting contest aimed at promoting environmental awareness. The event involved participants from all neighbourhood units (RW) and was intended to encourage residents to manage waste starting from the household level. Organisers hope the celebrations will strengthen community ties and foster lasting habits of environmental stewardship.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:13 WIB
On Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, Jasa Marga Commits to Maintaining National Connectivity and Improving Services
State-owned toll road operator Jasa Marga has reaffirmed its commitment to national connectivity and service quality as part of Indonesia's 81st Independence Day commemorations. The company highlighted its role in supporting mobility, goods distribution, and economic growth, while also expressing condolences for the disaster in East Nusa Tenggara. Jasa Marga emphasised technological innovation and collaboration with government stakeholders to enhance toll road operations.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:12 WIB
Crowds Flock to Monas for Malam Merdeka Celebrations
Thousands of Indonesians gathered at the National Monument (Monas) in Jakarta to celebrate Malam Merdeka, marking the 81st anniversary of independence. The event featured creative performances, a decorated vehicle carnival, and a drone show, while also providing economic opportunities through hundreds of MSME stalls.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:12 WIB
Designer says Indonesian leaders should be used to promote national identity
Indonesian fashion designer Ali Charisma argues that the attire of the country's leaders should go beyond protocol and serve as a tool for cultural diplomacy and promoting the creative industry. He believes that incorporating traditional textiles like batik and tenun into modern formal wear could significantly boost the national fashion sector. Ali suggests that consistent adoption by top officials would benefit designers, artisans, and small businesses across Indonesia.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:12 WIB
Exports Surge, Trade Minister Budi Optimistic Indonesia's Trade Balance Will Improve
Trade Minister Budi Santoso expressed optimism that Indonesia's trade balance will improve in July 2026, driven by a positive trend in exports. The trade deficit narrowed to US$0.45 billion in June 2026 from US$1.61 billion in May, with non-oil and gas exports continuing to record surpluses. He attributed the recent deficits to high global oil prices and hopes for stabilisation alongside strong non-oil and gas export performance.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:12 WIB
Pertamina's Rapid Response in NTT Deemed Worthy of Appreciation
Pertamina's swift action to maintain energy supplies and deliver humanitarian aid following the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara has drawn widespread praise. Energy analyst Hadi Ismoyo highlighted the company's adaptive distribution strategy, including the Reguler, Alternative, and Emergency scheme, as a vital part of national disaster response. Pertamina has also been urged to prioritise energy access for ordinary citizens regardless of cost.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:11 WIB
Acting MPR Secretary-General Urges All Parties to Fill Indonesia's Independence with Real Contributions
Acting Secretary-General of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR), Siti Fauziah, has called on all Indonesians to commemorate the 81st anniversary of independence by making tangible contributions to national development. She emphasised that the struggle for independence continues through work, achievement, and unity rather than armed conflict. Fauziah also encouraged the younger generation to maintain unity and contribute positively amid the challenges of digital technology.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:10 WIB
After Flag-Raising Ceremony, Celina Seen Moved to Tears
Celina Olivia Apriani Theo, the flag-bearer for the 17 August 2026 ceremony at Merdeka Palace, was visibly emotional after successfully carrying the Red and White flag. The SMK Negeri 5 Pontianak student represented West Kalimantan in the 81st Indonesian Independence Day state ceremony. Her tearful moment, shared by the Pancasila Ideology Development Agency (BPIP), drew widespread public attention.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:08 WIB
Prabowo asks all commanders of 81st Indonesian Independence Day ceremony to meet the President
President Prabowo Subianto requested all unit commanders involved in the flag-lowering ceremony for Indonesia's 81st Independence Day to meet him after the event at Merdeka Palace. He expressed appreciation for the orderly and solemn conduct of the ceremony. The request was made after the national flag was returned to him following the lowering procession.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:08 WIB
PLN Successfully Powers 81st Indonesian Independence Day Ceremony at Merdeka Palace and Across Regions
State electricity company PLN successfully maintained reliable power supply during the 81st Indonesian Independence Day ceremonies held across the country on 17 August. The company deployed multi-layered security measures, including backup generators and UPS units, particularly at Merdeka Palace in Jakarta. PLN also stationed thousands of personnel and support equipment in various regions to ensure uninterrupted electricity throughout the national celebrations.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:06 WIB
Fatma Saifullah Yusuf: Disabled children have talent, need opportunity
Fatma Saifullah Yusuf, adviser to the Ministry of Social Affairs' Dharma Wanita Persatuan, has highlighted the importance of expanding vocational education opportunities for talented young people with disabilities. She praised the London School Beyond Academy Bekasi for providing practical skills and confidence-building programmes. The academy offers training in culinary arts, crafts, office administration, and digital design to prepare students for employment.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:06 WIB
Indonesia confirms 68 dead after magnitude 7.7 NTT earthquake
The death toll from the magnitude 7.7 earthquake that struck East Nusa Tenggara has risen to 68, with 213 people injured and more than 1,500 aftershocks recorded. The Indonesian government has deployed ministers to the affected region to coordinate emergency response and recovery efforts. Authorities continue to monitor the situation and hope the number of casualties will not increase further.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:05 WIB
University of Jember rector raises aid for NTT earthquake victims after ceremony
The rector of the University of Jember has initiated a humanitarian fundraising drive for victims of the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. The effort began with prayers and a moment of silence during the Independence Day ceremony, followed by voluntary donations from the academic community. The rector emphasised the importance of empathy and solidarity on the occasion of Indonesia's independence anniversary.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:04 WIB
Indonesian Government Credit Card Transactions Rise 69.5 Percent in Q2 2026
Bank Indonesia reported that government segment transactions using the Indonesian Credit Card (KKI) reached Rp147.8 billion in the second quarter of 2026, up 69.5 percent year-on-year. The central bank also announced plans to enhance the KKI's online payment features through integration with marketplaces and the national procurement e-catalogue. The KKI is a domestically processed credit card that will be gradually developed to support both online and offline transactions.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:04 WIB
Indonesian Embassy in Dili holds flag ceremony and pilgrimage to Seroja Heroes Cemetery
The Indonesian Embassy in Dili, Timor Leste, commemorated Indonesia's 81st Independence Day with a series of events including a flag ceremony, a community festival, and a pilgrimage to the Seroja Heroes Cemetery. The celebrations, themed 'From Citizens for Citizens', highlighted the spirit of mutual cooperation among the Indonesian diaspora and businesses in Timor Leste. The embassy hopes this spirit of togetherness and tangible contribution will continue among Indonesians in Timor Leste.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:02 WIB
East Jakarta Residents Enthusiastically Watch Merdeka Night at HI, Arriving Since Afternoon
Residents of East Jakarta, including Abdelina Purba and her family, travelled to the Bundaran HI area in Central Jakarta to watch the Merdeka Night performance celebrating Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. The event, coordinated by the Ministry of Creative Economy, features immersive installations, video mapping, a decorated vehicle carnival, and a drone show. The festivities are designed to provide both a celebration of independence and an economic impact for the public.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:02 WIB
Awaiting Purbaya's Decision, Industry Minister Says Rp5 Million Electric Motorcycle Incentive Ready to Roll
Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita says the Rp5 million electric motorcycle incentive programme is technically ready but still awaits a Finance Ministry regulation. The scheme, proposed by Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa, is planned to be rolled out in stages, initially targeting around 6 million units. Eligible brands will be determined jointly by the Industry Ministry, Danantara Indonesia, and the Finance Ministry.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:01 WIB
Fisheries Minister Sends 50 Tonnes of Earthquake Aid to NTT Aboard Orca 06
Minister of Marine Affairs and Fisheries Sakti Wahyu Trenggono has dispatched 50 tonnes of humanitarian aid for communities affected by the 7.7-magnitude earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. The aid, transported by the fisheries patrol vessel Orca 06 from Kendari, is part of a collaboration between the ministry and the Southeast Sulawesi provincial government. The minister emphasised that the relief effort reflects the spirit of mutual assistance during Indonesia's Independence Day commemoration.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:01 WIB
Prabowo Solemnly Closes 81st Indonesian Independence Day Ceremony Series
President Prabowo Subianto led the flag-lowering ceremony at Merdeka Palace, marking the conclusion of the 81st anniversary of Indonesia's independence. The event featured the Paskibraka team and was conducted with full state honours. Prabowo expressed appreciation for the orderly and solemn proceedings.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 20:00 WIB
Prabowo, Jokowi, and Gibran's Close Moment: Palace Says They Are Indeed 'Besties'
State Secretary Minister Prasetyo Hadi commented on the friendly moment between President Prabowo Subianto, Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, and former President Joko Widodo during the Independence Day celebrations. He described their closeness as natural, noting that Prabowo and Jokowi are often called 'besties' on social media. Prasetyo also explained that seating arrangements were adjusted at the last minute to allow guests to better view the aerial demonstrations and cultural performances.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 19:59 WIB
Food self-sufficiency and superior human resources
President Prabowo Subianto announced that Indonesia has achieved self-sufficiency in eight food commodities ahead of schedule, citing simplified fertiliser governance as a key factor. State-owned fertiliser producer Pupuk Indonesia reported a 30 percent increase in subsidised fertiliser redemption by mid-2026. The government views food independence as essential to national sovereignty and resilience.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 19:58 WIB
Jakarta Schools Allowed to Implement Distance Learning Tomorrow Amid Independence Day Festivities
Schools in Jakarta are permitted to conduct distance learning on Tuesday, 18 August, as part of efforts to celebrate and reflect on Indonesia's Independence Day. The policy is outlined in a circular from the Jakarta Education Office and is not mandatory. Officials stressed that the decision rests with each school and is unrelated to any protest rumours.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 19:57 WIB
BGN considers equipping every SPPG kitchen with test kits
The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) is considering providing test kits to all Satuan Pelayanan Pemenuhan Gizi (SPPG) kitchens to detect harmful substances in food, following recent poisoning cases. The move is part of an evaluation after incidents including one in Brastagi, North Sumatra. BGN also warned that underperforming kitchens or personnel will face closure or dismissal.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 19:56 WIB
Earthquake Damages Ruteng Detention Centre Building, 171 Inmates to Be Moved to Bajawa
A magnitude 7.7 earthquake in Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, has caused severe damage to the Ruteng Detention Centre in Manggarai, with more than 50 per cent of the building affected. The regional office of the Directorate General of Corrections plans to temporarily relocate 171 inmates to the Bajawa Detention Centre while repairs are carried out. No fatalities were reported, though some inmates sustained minor injuries from falling debris.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 19:56 WIB
KPK Explains Reason for Searching Bengkulu City DPRD Member Vinna Ledy Anggraheni's House
The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has explained that it searched the home of Bengkulu City DPRD member Vinna Ledy Anggraheni as part of an investigation into alleged corruption involving state officials in the Bengkulu City Government. The case relates to suspected corruption in a wastewater treatment plant project and other projects. The KPK is investigating whether DPRD members proposed the projects or received illicit funds.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 19:56 WIB
Residents Enthusiastically Watch Return of Heritage Flag Procession at Monas
Crowds gathered at the National Monument in Jakarta to witness the ceremonial return of the Heritage Flag and Proclamation text following the 81st Independence Day celebrations. Visitors from outside Jakarta expressed joy at experiencing the historic moment, with some hoping the occasion would bring tangible benefits for small businesses and equitable prosperity.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 19:55 WIB
Edi Endi Deploys 40 Official Vehicles to Distribute Aid to Earthquake Victims
West Manggarai Regent Edistasius Endi has mobilised around 40 official vehicles to deliver the first phase of aid to earthquake victims in the region. The convoy includes vehicles from the regent's office, local government agencies, and NGOs. The aid package comprises 42 tonnes of rice, 102 tarpaulins, and several boxes of instant noodles.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 19:55 WIB
Scientists Warn Earth Nears Critical Tipping Points Threatening Human Existence
Scientists have issued a stark warning that climate change now poses an existential threat to humanity, with the planet approaching several global tipping points. These include the collapse of the Amazon rainforest, total melting of polar ice, and runaway global temperature rises. The combination of these factors with rapid population growth could trigger widespread catastrophe, according to researchers.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 19:54 WIB
81st Independence Day a Momentum for Kanci-Pejagan Toll Investor to Push for Sustainable Investment Climate
The director of PT Semesta Marga Raya, operator of the Kanci–Pejagan toll road, has called for legal certainty and consistent regulation to support long-term infrastructure investment. Speaking on Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, he stressed that investors need clear and stable policies, including on taxation, to make sound business decisions. The company also marked the occasion by distributing 25 food packages to local residents.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 19:54 WIB
Papuan doctor becomes ceremony commander at Indonesia's 81st Independence Day in Shanghai
A Papuan neurosurgeon led the flag-raising ceremony at the Indonesian Consulate General in Shanghai to mark Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. Around 160 Indonesian citizens attended the event, which was held despite the lingering effects of Typhoon Dolphin. The Consul General emphasised the importance of reflecting on the meaning of independence and strengthening commitment to the nation.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 19:54 WIB
Semarang municipal water company assures safe supply during dry season
PDAM Tirta Moedal of Semarang has confirmed that clean water supply to customers remains secure during the current dry season. The utility reports total production of 9,915,282 cubic metres, with the largest share coming from water treatment plants. The company says it is ready to provide 24-hour service through its piped network and continues to monitor water sources.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 19:54 WIB
Ambassador: Ceremony at Indonesian Embassy in Muscat highlights friendliness of Indonesians
The Indonesian Embassy in Muscat, Oman, held a flag ceremony to mark Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, with Ambassador Andi Rahadian emphasising the warmth and diversity of the Indonesian diaspora. The event aimed to strengthen ties among Indonesians in Oman and introduce Indonesia's friendly character to the local and foreign community. A 'People's Party' is planned for October 2026 to further foster relations between the diaspora and Omani society.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 19:52 WIB
PNM Peduli Extends a Hand to Earthquake Victims in NTT
State-owned microfinance firm PNM is conducting an inventory of affected employees and clients following an earthquake in Flores, East Nusa Tenggara. The company is prioritising safety and preparing logistical aid such as food, drinking water, and hygiene supplies. Initial assistance is being directed to Manggarai Regency, with plans to expand coverage.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 19:51 WIB
Ministry of Social Affairs acts on President's directive for NTT earthquake victims
The Ministry of Social Affairs is providing logistical support, tents, and public kitchens to communities affected by the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. Deputy Minister Agus Jabo has been on the ground since Saturday, coordinating with local officials and other agencies. The response is part of a broader government effort under the National Disaster Management Agency.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 19:51 WIB
Jakarta's Independence Night Held Without Fireworks as Empathy for NTT Earthquake Victims
The Indonesian government adjusted the Malam Merdeka celebrations for the 81st Independence Day by postponing the fireworks display as a gesture of empathy for earthquake victims, particularly in East Nusa Tenggara. The event continued with solidarity messages through video mapping and drone displays featuring 'Pray for NTT'. Officials urged the public to celebrate with compassion and support for those affected by the disaster.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 19:51 WIB
Tito Says Government Present in NTT
Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian stated that the presence of central government officials in East Nusa Tenggara demonstrates the state's commitment to accelerating assistance for earthquake-affected communities. Tito led the 81st Independence Day ceremony in East Manggarai while wearing traditional attire. He emphasised that government protection is realised through its presence in helping communities facing disasters.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 19:51 WIB
Jakarta's 18 August Distance Learning Flexible, Schools Given Choice
The Jakarta provincial government has clarified that distance learning (PJJ) on Tuesday, 18 August 2026, is not mandatory for schools. State and private educational units are given the flexibility to implement PJJ according to their own conditions and needs, while still ensuring learning targets are met. Schools are also required to maintain intensive communication with parents and prepare alternative learning arrangements if obstacles arise.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 19:49 WIB
Pertamina CEO Leads Humanitarian Response to NTT Earthquake on Indonesia's 81st Independence Day
Pertamina's chief executive, Simon Aloysius Mantiri, personally led the state-owned energy company's humanitarian efforts in earthquake-affected areas of Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, on Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. The company distributed essential supplies and set up supporting facilities across several evacuation sites. Local officials expressed appreciation for the assistance, which is helping communities during the recovery period.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 19:49 WIB
ATR Minister ensures public freedom from convoluted land administration
Minister of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning Nusron Wahid has pledged to protect the public from land mafia practices and bureaucratic hurdles in land administration. Speaking at the launch of service transformation initiatives, he emphasised that independence includes freedom from overlapping land records and complex procedures. The ministry introduced three new service reforms to improve transparency, speed, and legal certainty.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 19:48 WIB
Thousand Islands Festival Enlivens Indonesia's 81st Independence Day on Pramuka Island
The Thousand Islands Festival marked Indonesia's 81st Independence Day on Pramuka Island with traditional martial arts, tumpeng cutting, and a freedom parade. Police and local government emphasised the importance of unity and public order during the celebrations. The event brought together security forces, officials, students, and residents to strengthen national pride and collaboration.