Archive: 17 August 2026
Showing 401-450 of 1,319 articles
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 18:05 WIB
Central Papua free education programme reaches 64,000 students
The Central Papua provincial government is financing education for over 64,000 students, including 58,000 at secondary and vocational levels and around 6,000 university students, as part of efforts to remove financial barriers to schooling. Governor Meki Nawipa said the programme also covers boarding schools and students studying abroad, with about Rp30 billion allocated annually for overseas study grants. The initiative includes support for teacher certification and incentives, aiming to improve both access to and quality of education in the region.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 18:05 WIB
SBY Reminds Government to Maintain Fiscal Health Amid 6 Percent Growth Target
Former President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono has urged the Prabowo administration to maintain fiscal discipline while pursuing an ambitious 6 percent economic growth target for 2027. He stressed that growth figures must translate into tangible improvements in public welfare, including reduced poverty and unemployment. SBY also called for regular policy evaluations to prevent budget mismanagement.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 18:04 WIB
Central Java Grants Remission to 9,551 Inmates and Juvenile Offenders for Indonesia's 81st Independence Day
The Central Java provincial government has granted remission to 9,551 prisoners and juvenile offenders in commemoration of Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. Governor Ahmad Luthfi emphasised that remission should serve as an evaluation tool to encourage productive activities and prevent repeat offences. The majority of recipients received partial sentence reductions, while 255 were released immediately.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 18:03 WIB
Prabowo's Cat Bobby Kertanegara Attends 81st Independence Day Flag-Lowering Ceremony
President Prabowo Subianto's cat, Bobby Kertanegara, made an appearance at the flag-lowering ceremony for Indonesia's 81st Independence Day at Merdeka Palace. The grey-and-white cat arrived in a pram wearing red-and-white woven attire, drawing attention from media personnel. The ceremony also featured the Paskibraka team 'Indonesia Adil Makmur', with representatives from various provinces carrying out key roles in the procession.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 18:03 WIB
Basarnas Chief Visits Earthquake Evacuees in East Manggarai
The head of Indonesia's National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas) and the Home Affairs Minister visited evacuation posts in East Manggarai, NTT, following a magnitude 7.7 earthquake that struck Flores on 15 August 2026. The disaster has claimed 55 lives and injured 132 people, with East Manggarai among the worst-affected areas. Basarnas has deployed 119 personnel across multiple affected districts and is maintaining 24-hour search and rescue operations.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 18:02 WIB
Deputy PU Minister: Damaged infrastructure in NTT still being identified
The government is still assessing the extent of infrastructure damage caused by recent disasters in East Nusa Tenggara, according to Deputy Public Works Minister Diana Kusumastuti. She confirmed that roads and buildings have been affected but said connectivity has not been completely severed. Clean-up efforts are underway to clear debris blocking access routes.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 18:02 WIB
Pertamina distributes aid to 700 residents affected by earthquake in NTT
State energy firm Pertamina has distributed emergency aid to 700 residents affected by an earthquake in Maumere, East Nusa Tenggara. The assistance, delivered through its Maumere fuel terminal, includes basic food supplies, drinking water, hygiene kits, tents and blankets. The company says it will continue coordinating with local authorities to meet the needs of affected communities.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 18:01 WIB
KKP and Southeast Sulawesi Provincial Government dispatch 50 tonnes of logistics for NTT earthquake victims
Indonesia's Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) and the Southeast Sulawesi Provincial Government have dispatched 50 tonnes of emergency supplies to earthquake-affected areas in East Nusa Tenggara. The shipment includes food, baby supplies, blankets and medicines, transported aboard the KKP patrol vessel Orca 06. The first phase focuses on emergency response while officials assess the impact on coastal communities and fisheries businesses.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 18:00 WIB
Fatma Saifullah Praises LSBA Bekasi Vocational Education for Children with Disabilities
Fatma Saifullah Yusuf, adviser to the Ministry of Social Affairs' Dharma Wanita Persatuan, has praised the London School Beyond Academy (LSBA) Bekasi for expanding vocational education opportunities for young people with disabilities. The academy offers practical skills training in culinary arts, crafts, office administration, and digital design, with a curriculum tailored to individual abilities. The Ministry of Social Affairs plans to adapt LSBA's standardised learning and mentoring model for social rehabilitation centres across Indonesia.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 18:00 WIB
Trading Firm Breaks Record with Rp 246 Trillion Loss in a Month
Jane Street, a major Wall Street trading firm, reportedly suffered a loss of around US$15 billion (Rp246 trillion) in July 2026, partly triggered by problems at hedge fund Situational Awareness. The loss is the worst monthly result in the company's history, despite Jane Street still being on track for a very strong trading year with revenues exceeding US$40 billion. The episode highlights how disruption at a single counterparty can significantly impact even dominant trading firms.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 18:00 WIB
Orderly and Solemn Flag-Lowering Ceremony, Prabowo Requests Commander to Report
President Prabowo Subianto praised the orderly and solemn flag-lowering ceremony for Indonesia's 81st Independence Day at the State Palace in Jakarta. He requested the ceremony commander, Kombes Jerrold Hendra Yosef Kumontoy, to report to him after the event concluded. The ceremony featured the Paskibraka team and was part of broader national celebrations including a people's party and carnival.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 18:00 WIB
Building Markets and Strengthening the Indonesian Economy
The 2027 State Budget (RAPBN) signals a broader government agenda to build and strengthen Indonesia's domestic markets, extending beyond the stock exchange to commodities, capital, investment, energy, and goods and services. Key initiatives include establishing a strategic mineral and commodity exchange to create an Indonesia Reference Price, reforming the capital market, and developing the Indonesia Financial Center. These measures aim to enhance economic sovereignty, integrate the value chain, and optimise state-owned enterprise assets.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 18:00 WIB
After Baiturrahman Grand Mosque Unrest, Yusril Hopes Aceh Returns to Conducive Conditions
Coordinating Minister for Law, Human Rights, Immigration and Corrections Yusril Ihza Mahendra has called for calm in Aceh following unrest during the 21st anniversary of the Aceh Peace Day. The disturbance was triggered by the display of the Star and Crescent flag associated with the Free Aceh Movement. Both central and regional authorities are coordinating to maintain security and promote dialogue.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 17:59 WIB
Residents Voluntarily Hand Over Illegal Firearms, North Maluku Police Chief: A Real Manifestation of Love for the Republic
Residents of North Halmahera Regency have voluntarily surrendered 16 illegal firearms, four magazines, and 138 rounds of ammunition to the North Maluku Regional Police. The weapons, mostly homemade remnants of the 1999-2000 social conflict, included four organic firearms from the Philippines that had been stored for sale to an armed criminal group in Papua. Police and the governor praised the move as a sign of public trust and commitment to national unity.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 17:59 WIB
On Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, GMPK DKI Jakarta Urges Youth to Safeguard National Unity
The DKI Jakarta chapter of the National Students and Pupils Movement (GMPK) has praised the 81st Independence Day ceremony at Merdeka Palace, describing it as a meaningful display of national unity. Chairman Asip Irama highlighted the importance of public participation in preserving unity amid diversity and urged young people to translate independence into tangible contributions. He also commended President Prabowo Subianto for leading prayers for disaster victims during the celebrations.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 17:58 WIB
Basarnas Chief: East Manggarai Among Worst-Affected Areas
The head of Indonesia's National Search and Rescue Agency has identified East Manggarai as one of the districts worst hit by the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. He visited evacuation posts alongside the Home Affairs Minister and urged residents to remain vigilant against aftershocks. Basarnas has deployed 119 personnel to affected areas as part of a wider response involving over 700 personnel from multiple agencies.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 17:58 WIB
ISPA Cases in Tasikmalaya Regency Reach 97,629 During 2026 Dry Season
Tasikmalaya Regency has recorded 97,629 cases of acute respiratory infection (ISPA) between January and August 2026, driven by extreme dry-season weather and widespread land and forest fires. The local health office attributes the surge to dusty roads, cold snaps, and smoke exposure, with vulnerable groups such as toddlers, children, and adolescents most affected. Residents have been urged to wear masks when outdoors to reduce respiratory risks.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 17:57 WIB
PLN successfully maintains national electricity reliability for Indonesia's 81st Independence Day
State electricity company PLN ensured reliable power supply during nationwide Independence Day ceremonies on 17 August. The company deployed thousands of personnel and support equipment across multiple regions as part of layered security measures. PLN's president director described the effort as a form of national service and commitment to the Indonesian people.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 17:57 WIB
Foreign envoys praise Indonesia as nation marks 81 years of freedom
Foreign ambassadors from the Netherlands, Pakistan, Egypt, and Japan congratulated Indonesia on its 81st independence anniversary, praising bilateral ties and President Prabowo Subianto's leadership. The envoys highlighted historical partnerships and expressed commitment to deepening cooperation in politics, economy, and development. Their remarks followed the flag-hoisting ceremony at Merdeka Palace led by President Prabowo.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 17:55 WIB
Hope to restore 3.8 million passengers to Bandung's skies
Bandung's Husein Sastranegara International Airport has resumed commercial jet services after nearly three years, marked by a Garuda Indonesia Boeing 737-800 NG arrival from Denpasar. The resumption is seen as vital for reviving tourism and education connectivity in the city. Stakeholders hope to restore the airport's previous passenger volume of 3.8 million.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 17:55 WIB
1,598 Aftershocks Rock East Nusa Tenggara
Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has recorded 1,598 aftershocks following the magnitude 7.7 earthquake that struck East Nusa Tenggara on Saturday. The agency expects the aftershock activity to gradually subside over the next two to three weeks. BMKG is using the monitoring data to guide decisions on building repairs and retrofitting in affected areas.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 17:54 WIB
81st Indonesian Independence Day Celebrations at Monas: From People's Party to Aerial Displays
Jakarta marked Indonesia's 81st Independence Day with a lively People's Party at the National Monument (Monas) featuring free food, games and entertainment. The celebrations were capped by an aerial demonstration involving 81 aircraft and helicopters, including Rafale, F-16 and Sukhoi jets, following the proclamation ceremony at Merdeka Palace.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 17:53 WIB
Prabowo Summons Three Commanders After Flag-Lowering Ceremony
President Prabowo Subianto requested three commanders to report to him after the flag-lowering ceremony marking Indonesia's 81st Independence Day at Merdeka Palace. The President expressed appreciation for the orderly and solemn conduct of the ceremony. The event concluded with the red-and-white flag being handed to Prabowo before being returned to the National Monument.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 17:53 WIB
Nagekeo Earthquake Refugees Endure Tarpaulin Tents Without Aid
Residents of Natatoto village in Nagekeo, East Nusa Tenggara, remain in makeshift tarpaulin shelters following a 15 August earthquake, with no government assistance received. Around 24 families are sharing limited tents, relying on begging for food as aftershocks continue every 30 minutes.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 17:51 WIB
Prabowo Flanked by Jokowi and Gibran at Independence Day Ceremony, State Secretary: Close Besties
State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi explained that President Prabowo Subianto being seated between former President Joko Widodo and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka during the 81st Independence Day ceremony was a situational arrangement rather than a deliberate choice. He noted that Prabowo and Jokowi have long been close friends, often referred to as 'besties' on social media. The seating was adjusted because other former presidents were unable to attend, but this did not diminish the committee's respect for all attendees.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 17:50 WIB
Flores Earthquake Update: 68 Fatalities and 213 Injured in East Nusa Tenggara
The death toll from the magnitude 7.7 earthquake that struck East Nusa Tenggara has risen to 68, with 213 people injured. The National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) reports that victims are spread across seven regencies, with Manggarai and East Manggarai hardest hit. The government has deployed field hospitals, medical teams, and military personnel to support relief efforts in the affected areas.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 17:50 WIB
Thailand and Japan Economies Slow on Household Consumption, What About Indonesia?
Thailand's economy grew just 1.9 percent year-on-year in the second quarter of 2026, down from 2.8 percent in the previous quarter, as high household debt and living costs dampened consumption. Private investment and goods exports provided some support, but government investment declined. The article raises the question of whether Indonesia faces similar risks from household consumption pressures.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 17:50 WIB
Colourful Traditional Attire and Songket Enliven Indonesia's Independence Day Ceremony in Abu Dhabi
The Indonesian Embassy in Abu Dhabi celebrated the 81st anniversary of Indonesia's independence with a vibrant ceremony attended by the Indonesian community in the United Arab Emirates. Participants wore diverse traditional attire, batik, and songket, reflecting Indonesia's cultural richness. Ambassador Judha Nugraha highlighted the event's significance in fostering nationalism among young Indonesians abroad and strengthening cultural ties between Indonesia and the UAE.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 17:50 WIB
Brebes School Holds Shallot Satay Eating Contest for Indonesia's 81st Independence Day
A primary school in Brebes, Central Java, marked Indonesia's 81st Independence Day with an unusual shallot and garlic satay eating contest. The event was also intended to promote the Red and White Village Cooperative (KOPDES) programme, highlighting Brebes's role as a major shallot-producing region.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 17:49 WIB
UGM Students Develop Jempol Payment, Paying via Fingerprint Without a Card
Students from Universitas Gadjah Mada have developed PolPay, a biometric payment system that allows transactions using only a fingerprint, eliminating the need for cards or mobile phones. The system integrates fingerprint sensors with Electronic Data Capture devices and uses edge computing with AES-256 encryption to secure user data. The project has received funding through the Student Creativity Programme and will be presented at the National Student Scientific Week in November 2026.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 17:49 WIB
Cilok Vendor Reaps Windfall After Jeje and Putri Buy Out Stock at Independence Day Event
A street food vendor in West Bandung Regency saw her entire stock of cilok bought by local and national PAN politicians during an Independence Day celebration. The event, organised by the National Mandate Party, aimed to boost local micro, small and medium enterprises. Officials said supporting UMKM is a priority for the regional government.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 17:48 WIB
Manggarai Earthquake Leaves Trauma, Children Flee at Every Tremor
Residents of Kampung Batok in Manggarai, East Nusa Tenggara, remain in makeshift shelters following a recent earthquake, with children still fleeing in panic at every aftershock. Around 80 families have not returned to their homes, relying on three community-run public kitchens for meals. AQL Humanity has distributed food aid and snacks as part of its national food sovereignty programme, marking the first external assistance to reach the village.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 17:48 WIB
North Maluku Police Chief Receives Voluntary Surrender of Illegal Firearms from Residents
North Maluku Police Chief Inspector General Arif Budiman has received 16 illegal firearms voluntarily surrendered by residents of North Halmahera Regency. The weapons, mostly remnants of the 1999-2000 social conflict, include four organic firearms from the Philippines that were reportedly intended for sale to armed criminal groups in Papua. The surrender is being framed as a significant step towards preventing conflict and maintaining peace and security in the region.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 17:48 WIB
Australian PM Anthony Albanese Affirms Indonesia as Vital Regional Security Partner
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has underscored Indonesia's role as a key strategic partner in maintaining regional stability and security during a speech marking Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. He highlighted that Australia's peace and security depend heavily on regional stability, which is directly linked to Indonesia's unity and sovereignty. Albanese also expressed condolences over the recent earthquake in Nagekeo, East Nusa Tenggara.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 17:47 WIB
Reflecting on 81 Years of Independence, Ministry of Public Works Channels Sovereignty from Rice Fields to Bridges in Remote Areas
The Ministry of Public Works marked Indonesia's 81st Independence Day by highlighting its role in transforming political independence into tangible benefits for citizens. Special Staff Jemmy Setiawan emphasised that infrastructure such as irrigation, roads, and schools is key to achieving food sovereignty and reducing inequality. The ministry also commemorated the heroic defence of Gedung Sate in 1945 and reported significant progress in irrigation, school construction, and disaster recovery.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 17:46 WIB
KKP Deploys Orca 06 Vessel to Deliver Aid for NTT Earthquake Victims
The Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries has dispatched humanitarian aid to earthquake-affected communities in East Nusa Tenggara using its patrol vessel Orca 06. The shipment, a collaboration with the Southeast Sulawesi provincial government, departed from Kendari on 17 August 2026. Minister Sakti Wahyu Trenggono framed the effort as part of the spirit of independence and national solidarity.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 17:46 WIB
Indonesia steps up Bromo fire checks to prevent new outbreaks
The Forestry Ministry is conducting cooling operations and ground checks in Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park to ensure no residual embers remain after recent fires. Officials stress that prevention must be strengthened at the grassroots level, with increased community involvement in both fire prevention and national park management. The government is using the Bromo fire response to evaluate and reinforce preparedness ahead of the dry season.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 17:46 WIB
81st Independence Day: UNIPA Academic Says Peace Is Key to Papua's Progress
A Papua academic has called for peace and mutual trust to be prioritised alongside infrastructure and economic growth in the region's development. Dr Hendrik Arwam of Universitas Papua said Papua's diversity should be treated as social capital rather than a source of division. He urged that local communities be involved in formulating, implementing and overseeing development programmes.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 17:45 WIB
Jakarta residents welcome Rp8 public transport fare for Independence Day celebrations
Jakartans have responded positively to the special Rp8 fare for public transport during the 81st anniversary of Indonesian independence. Commuters say the discounted fare provides economic relief and adds to the festive atmosphere. Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo adjusted the fare from an initially announced Rp1 to Rp8 to align with the central government's special tariff.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 17:45 WIB
Government and Private Offices Advised to Implement WFH Tomorrow, Here's Why
The Ministry of State Secretariat has issued a circular advising all government institutions, public bodies, and private companies to allow work flexibility for employees on 18 August 2026 in connection with Indonesia's 81st Independence Day anniversary. The circular encourages organisations to give employees the opportunity to celebrate the occasion while ensuring essential public services continue to operate optimally. Presidential Chief of Staff Dudung Abdurachman said the measure is intended to enliven the independence day celebrations.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 17:44 WIB
Carnival of 8,200 Cipete Utara residents campaigns for waste sorting
The South Jakarta city administration held a carnival involving 8,200 residents of Cipete Utara to promote waste sorting during the 81st Indonesian Independence Day celebrations. Mayor Syafrin Liputo urged participants to dispose of waste according to its category, supporting the source-level waste separation movement. The event also served to strengthen community unity amid cultural diversity.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 17:44 WIB
SBS TV Network Draws Criticism for Airing New Ha Young Drama
South Korean broadcaster SBS is facing public backlash over its decision to air a new drama starring actress Ha Young, whose family history is linked to pro-Japanese collaboration during the colonial era. The controversy is heightened by the drama's scheduled premiere just three days before Korea's Independence Movement Day, and by the fact that it is adapted from a Japanese television series. Production is reportedly 90 percent complete, making it difficult to replace the actress, while SBS has yet to issue an official statement.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 17:43 WIB
Central Jakarta Mayor affirms remission as part of social reintegration
Central Jakarta Mayor Arifin has stated that remission for prisoners and sentence reductions for juvenile inmates are integral to accelerating social reintegration. He emphasised that the correctional system aims to help inmates become productive members of society rather than burdens. In 2026, the government granted general remission to 173,706 prisoners and sentence reductions to 1,085 juvenile inmates nationwide.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 17:42 WIB
Ragunan predicts 30,000 visitors for Indonesia's 81st Independence Day
Ragunan Zoo management expects between 20,000 and 30,000 visitors on 17 August 2026, when Indonesia celebrates its 81st Independence Day. The zoo will remain open on the national holiday and has shifted its usual Monday closure to Tuesday. Additional parking facilities and independence-themed decorations have been prepared to accommodate the anticipated surge in visitors.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 17:41 WIB
Pertamina CEO Distributes Aid and Leads 81st Independence Day Ceremony at Flores Earthquake Site
Pertamina's chief executive Simon Aloysius Mantiri visited the earthquake-hit Flores region of East Nusa Tenggara to oversee aid distribution and lead Indonesia's 81st Independence Day ceremony. The state energy company is prioritising both energy supply restoration and humanitarian assistance following the magnitude 7.7 earthquake. Most fuel stations in Flores have reportedly resumed operations, with aid including tents, medicine and basic food supplies being delivered.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 17:41 WIB
When 'Tanah Airku' Was Sung by UMP International Students from Around the World
International students from across Africa, Asia and the Middle East joined the 81st Indonesian Independence Day ceremony at Universitas Muhammadiyah Purwokerto, singing 'Tanah Airku' and 'Rasa Sayange' alongside Indonesian students and staff. University leaders said the participation reflected the role of higher education in fostering cross-cultural understanding and introducing Indonesia to the world. The rector emphasised that independence should translate into meaningful contributions through quality education, innovation and global friendship.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 17:40 WIB
Indonesian Credit Card Expands Digital Payment Access via QRIS
Bank Indonesia and the Indonesian Payment System Association have launched the Indonesian Credit Card (KKI) for retail customers, offering deferred payment processed domestically. The central bank also announced an expansion of the 0% Merchant Discount Rate for QRIS transactions, effective 1 October 2026. QRIS adoption continues to grow, reaching 65.77 million users and 44.86 million merchants by June 2026.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 17:39 WIB
NTT Earthquake Death Toll Rises to 68, with 213 Injured
The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has reported that the death toll from the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara has risen to 68, with 213 people injured. The provincial government has declared a 14-day emergency response status. The 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck on Saturday, centred in Nagekeo Regency.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 17:39 WIB
OJK Strengthens Financial Services Sector for a Sovereign, Just, and Prosperous Indonesia
Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has reaffirmed its commitment to bolstering the financial services sector to support national sovereignty, justice, and prosperity. Chairperson Friderica Widyasari Dewi outlined priorities including financial stability, inclusive access, and support for productive economic activities. The OJK also highlighted its role in developing the Mineral and Strategic Commodities Exchange and advancing capital market reforms.
Mon, 17 Aug 2026, 17:38 WIB
HST Regency Government and Bulog subsidise Siam Madu rice by up to Rp7,000 per litre
The Hulu Sungai Tengah Regency Government in South Kalimantan has partnered with state logistics agency Bulog to subsidise local Siam Madu rice by Rp7,000 per litre, bringing the retail price down to Rp10,000. The programme aims to protect purchasing power amid rising rice prices ahead of the Prophet Muhammad's birthday celebrations. A total of 26,650 kilograms of subsidised rice is being distributed through 15 designated traders at Pasar Keramat Barabai.