Archive: 18 August 2026
Showing 501-550 of 1,549 articles
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 17:27 WIB
222,000 Lobster Seeds Smuggled Through Merak, Driver Thought He Was Carrying Gourami
Police in Banten have foiled an attempt to smuggle 222,000 lobster seeds worth Rp 33.3 billion through Merak Port. The lorry driver was released after investigators found no criminal intent, as he believed he was transporting gourami fish. The suspected organiser remains at large and has been placed on the wanted list.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 17:27 WIB
Profile of Sarjito, Candidate for OJK Commissioner Overseeing Indonesia's Mineral Exchange
Sarjito has been named the sole candidate for Head Executive of the Mineral and Strategic Commodities Exchange (BMKS) supervisor, a role that also includes a seat on the OJK Board of Commissioners. The House of Representatives has tasked Commission XI with conducting the fit and proper test. The BMKS is targeted to begin operations on 1 January 2027, with implementation details to be set out in a presidential regulation.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 17:27 WIB
NTT Earthquake Victim Update: 70 Dead, 132 Injured
The death toll from the earthquake in Nusa Tenggara Timur has risen to 70, with 132 people injured, according to Basarnas. The highest fatalities were recorded in Manggarai and East Manggarai regencies. The provincial government has declared a 14-day emergency response status.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 17:27 WIB
West Kalimantan deploys three aircraft for weather modification
The West Kalimantan provincial government has deployed three aircraft for cloud seeding operations to accelerate rainfall and assist in tackling forest and land fires. Governor Ria Norsan said two aircraft are stationed in Ketapang Regency, with one on standby in Pontianak. He also urged residents to perform the Istisqa prayer for rain this Friday.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 17:27 WIB
Banda Aceh Official Named Suspect in Same-Sex Relations Case
A senior official in Banda Aceh has been named a suspect for alleged violation of Islamic sharia law concerning same-sex relations. The official and a university student were detained and face possible caning under Aceh's Qanun Jinayat. Local authorities stressed their commitment to enforcing sharia law without exception.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 17:27 WIB
21 people carrying dangerous items detained during protest
Jakarta Metropolitan Police detained 21 individuals found carrying dangerous items such as firecrackers, flares and bottles intended for Molotov cocktails during a protest in Jakarta. Police said the detainees appeared to be outsiders unaffiliated with the student demonstrators and were suspected of trying to provoke clashes. Thousands of security personnel were deployed across the capital, with officers barred from carrying firearms.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 17:27 WIB
State Eases Burden on Livestock Farmers, Here Is the Proof
The Indonesian government, through state-owned enterprise PT Berdikari, has signed a memorandum of understanding with the LPER producers' cooperative to supply 5,000 tonnes of soybean meal directly to smallholder poultry farmers. The agreement aims to cut feed costs, which account for 70 per cent of production expenses, and stabilise prices for eggs and chicken. The initiative is part of a national food security programme based on cooperatives.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 17:26 WIB
Recent high school graduate suspect in East Luwu assault case granted restorative justice
The South Sulawesi High Prosecutor's Office has halted prosecution of a 19-year-old assault suspect from East Luwu through restorative justice, citing his recent high school graduation and intention to pursue higher education. The decision followed a mediation agreement between the parties in August 2026, supported by local religious and community leaders. The suspect had been charged under articles of the Criminal Code relating to violence against the victim.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 17:26 WIB
BSI introduces Hasanah KKI Card sharia financing card based on GPN
PT Bank Syariah Indonesia (BSI) has launched the BSI Hasanah KKI Card, a sharia-compliant financing card that operates on the National Payment Gateway (GPN) and integrates with BYOND by BSI as a funding source for QRIS transactions. The card is initially offered as a virtual card with limits ranging from Rp4 million to Rp100 million and can only be used at halal merchants. BSI reports that its Hasanah Card transaction volume exceeded Rp1 trillion as of July 2026, growing 5 per cent year-on-year.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 17:26 WIB
Indonesia's 81st Independence Day in the Vatican: Prayers for NTT and Nuns as Flag-Raising Troops
More than 400 Indonesian citizens and diaspora members gathered in Rome to commemorate Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, with the ceremony doubling as a show of solidarity for earthquake victims in East Nusa Tenggara. The event was notable for its flag-raising team composed entirely of Catholic nuns from NTT, reflecting the unique demographic of Indonesians registered with the Indonesian Embassy to the Holy See. A fundraising drive for disaster victims was also held in cooperation with Caritas Indonesia.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 17:25 WIB
Obamacare at Risk of Collapse? Millions of Americans Lose Coverage
Enrolment in the US Affordable Care Act marketplace has fallen sharply after enhanced subsidies were allowed to lapse, with the Congressional Budget Office projecting a drop below 17 million by the end of the year. Rising premiums and adverse selection are driving healthier participants out of the market, pushing up costs for those who remain. The trend is expected to increase the number of uninsured Americans and strain healthcare providers.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 17:25 WIB
RI Independence Day Ceremony at PLBN Labang, BNPP Urges Residents to Strengthen National Spirit
The 81st Indonesian Independence Day flag ceremony was held at the Labang Cross-Border Post in Nunukan Regency, North Kalimantan, with around 100 participants. BNPP official Brigadier General Topri Daeng Balaw called on residents to use the occasion to strengthen national unity and support development in border areas. The event included communal meals, children's competitions, and awards for student flag-raising troops.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 17:25 WIB
Customs foils illegal export of 22.3 kg gold bars at Soekarno-Hatta Airport
Indonesia's Directorate General of Customs and Excise (DJBC) has thwarted an attempt to illegally export 30 gold bars weighing 22.317 kilograms from Soekarno-Hatta Airport. The shipment, which lacked customs documents and permits, involved two Chinese nationals identified as ZC and ZL. The case has been handed over to the National Police's Criminal Investigation Directorate for further legal proceedings.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 17:25 WIB
610 Thousand Barrel Lifting Target Full of Challenges, Academics Assess Minister Bahlil's Strategy as Appropriate
Academics view President Prabowo Subianto's target of 610 thousand barrels of oil per day by 2027 as challenging amid the natural decline of national oil fields. However, Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia's strategy of accelerating exploration, optimising existing fields, and improving the investment climate is considered appropriate. Experts highlight the target's role in strengthening energy security and reducing import dependence.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 17:24 WIB
12 People Named Suspects in Central Kalimantan Forest and Land Fires
Central Kalimantan Police have named 12 suspects in connection with forest and land fires across the province. The regional police chief stressed that every fire incident is investigated to determine its cause and identify those responsible. He called for joint efforts between the authorities and the public to prevent further fires.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 17:23 WIB
Palangka Raya Education Agency adjusts school hours to anticipate haze
The Palangka Raya Education Agency has delayed school start times and prepared remote learning measures in response to declining air quality and potential haze. Schools are required to monitor air quality, provide masks, and establish emergency procedures. Early childhood education has already shifted to distance learning due to the vulnerability of young children.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 17:23 WIB
Gaining New Experience, Radak Primary School Pupils Learn Microsoft Word with BSI Explore
Pupils at SDN 23 Terentang in Radak Baru village received basic Microsoft Word training through the BSI Explore 2026 programme run by Universitas Bina Sarana Informatika Pontianak. The initiative aimed to introduce digital document skills to primary school children, many of whom had never used the software before. Students were guided step-by-step by university volunteers, from typing and editing text to inserting images.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 17:23 WIB
Economist urges strengthening of village-owned enterprises to develop village economy
An economist has called on the government to strengthen the role of Village-Owned Enterprises (BUMDes) in developing rural economies. Wijayanto Samirin of Paramadina University argues that BUMDes should be optimised to build village supply chains and move beyond distribution into production and value-added activities. He also urged that the Merah Putih Village Cooperative programme should not function merely as retail outlets but become part of the production process.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 17:22 WIB
Philippines suspends face-to-face classes in 12 provinces due to weather
The Philippine government has suspended in-person classes in Metro Manila and 12 other provinces as heavy rain from a tropical cyclone and the southwest monsoon continues to batter the country. At least 50 cities and areas have declared a state of calamity, with severe flooding and landslides reported nationwide. Local media note that well-known corruption scandals related to flood control have left critical infrastructure unfinished or poorly maintained, further straining disaster response efforts.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 17:21 WIB
Indonesian Embassy in Moscow celebrates Independence Day with job fair
The Indonesian Embassy in Moscow marked Indonesia's 81st Independence Day by hosting a job fair alongside consular and student services. The event connected Indonesian citizens in Russia with employment and internship opportunities at Russian and Indonesian companies. Ambassador Jose Antonio Morato Tavares said the initiative reflects the embassy's commitment to delivering tangible benefits to the community.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 17:20 WIB
TikTok Suddenly Blocked, Users Rush to Download VPN
Internet users in Oman have flocked to VPN services after TikTok access was abruptly restricted, with Proton VPN registrations surging by up to 600% above the daily average. The Omani government has not officially announced a block, but the sudden loss of access has driven thousands to bypass the suspected national firewall. Proton VPN has condemned the restriction as a violation of citizens' rights, noting that the platform is used for political discussion and e-commerce.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 17:19 WIB
Sudirman Said: Culture of Corruption, Collusion, Nepotism and Cronyism Must Be Eradicated
Rector of Universitas Harkat Negeri Sudirman Said has called for a moral and institutional reset of the Indonesian Republic, arguing that economic progress has outpaced the nation's spiritual and ethical development. He highlighted the shrinking middle class, declining PISA scores, and worsening corruption, democracy, and press freedom indices as evidence of a 'ship without a compass'. Said urged public officials and aspiring leaders to treat power as a collective endeavour rather than a private asset.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 17:19 WIB
Batang and DPRD agree 70 percent of P-APBD budget for infrastructure
The Batang Regency Government and the local Regional People's Representative Council (DPRD) have agreed to allocate nearly 70 percent of the revised 2026 regional budget (P-APBD) to infrastructure, with a focus on road construction and repair. The spending is intended to improve inter-district connectivity and support a tourism development push planned for 2027. The revised budget projects regional revenue of Rp1.75 trillion against expenditure of Rp1.95 trillion, with a financing surplus of Rp194.33 billion used to cover the deficit.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 17:19 WIB
Economist projects JCI at 6,500–7,000 level in Q3 2026
Mirae Asset Sekuritas Indonesia's chief economist projects the Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) could reach 6,500–7,000 in the third quarter of 2026, driven primarily by foreign capital inflows. He cautioned that inflows remain insufficient and the index remains volatile, contingent on domestic and global sentiment. The projection follows a market rally spurred by President Prabowo Subianto's state address outlining higher economic growth and investment targets for 2027.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 17:18 WIB
Revealed: Series of Orders from Little Aresha Daycare Foundation Chair to Carers
The chair of the foundation overseeing Little Aresha daycare, Diyah Kusumastuti, has been charged in connection with child abuse at the facility. Prosecutors allege she instructed carers to tie up and swaddle children, and to make them sleep on bare floors, practices said to have been in place since the daycare opened in 2022. The defendant accepted the indictment without objection, and the trial will proceed to the evidentiary stage.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 17:18 WIB
AGO's Team 9 Examines 7 Witnesses and 1 Expert in Febrie Adriansyah Money Laundering Case
The Attorney General's Office's Team 9 has examined eight witnesses and one expert as part of its investigation into alleged money laundering involving former Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah. The witnesses include private sector and banking representatives, with the examination aimed at strengthening evidence related to the predicate offence of corruption. Investigators are also focusing on tracing assets suspected to be proceeds of crime.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 17:17 WIB
BPBD Trenggalek distributes clean water to 25 drought-affected villages
The Trenggalek Disaster Mitigation Agency (BPBD) has distributed 34,000 litres of clean water to drought-stricken areas in East Java. A total of 25 villages across 10 sub-districts are currently affected by water shortages. The agency is coordinating with the Brantas River Basin Authority and the regional water company to expand delivery coverage.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 17:16 WIB
High Enthusiasm as Bersatu Harmoni Nusantara Carnival Draws Large Crowds
Minister for Protection of Indonesian Migrant Workers Mukhtarudin highlighted strong public enthusiasm for government priority programmes during the Bersatu Harmoni Nusantara Carnival at Monas, Jakarta, held as part of Indonesia's 81st Independence Day celebrations. The event featured 32 decorated vehicles from ministries, agencies and students, with President Prabowo Subianto in attendance. The minister emphasised the carnival's role in bringing government programmes closer to the public and promoting national unity.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 17:16 WIB
Murder case of student NDR leads to discovery of alleged sexual violence
Prosecutors in Mataram have identified indications of sexual violence in the case of a female student, NDR, who was allegedly murdered in her boarding room. The finding emerged during a review of the suspect Haikal's case file, prompting a request for police to gather further evidence. Police have yet to receive formal notification of the prosecutor's findings.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 17:16 WIB
Ministry of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection: Strengthening UPT PPA requires central and regional government cooperation
Deputy Minister of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection Veronica Tan has called for joint efforts between central and regional governments to strengthen Technical Implementation Units for the Protection of Women and Children (UPT PPA). During a visit to Yogyakarta, she highlighted the need to address institutional capacity, human resources, service quality, cross-sector coordination, and budget support. She also noted that successful local innovations should be documented and replicated in other regions.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 17:14 WIB
81st Indonesian Independence Day: KKP and Rote Ndao Residents Plant 5,000 Mangroves
The Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) and the Rote Ndao Regency government marked Indonesia's 81st Independence Day by planting 5,000 mangrove seedlings in Baadale Village, East Nusa Tenggara. The initiative is part of a broader coastal ecosystem rehabilitation programme, with officials emphasising that long-term maintenance and community involvement are essential for the mangroves to thrive. The programme aims to protect coastlines from abrasion, store carbon, and deliver social and economic benefits to coastal communities.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 17:14 WIB
MPR Deputy Speaker urges 6 percent growth based on sustainable economy
Deputy Speaker of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) Eddy Soeparno has called for Indonesia's six percent economic growth target for 2027 to be built on sustainable development principles. He emphasised that energy transition should be positioned as a driver of national economic growth, creating investment, jobs and new industries. Soeparno also stressed the importance of energy security and expressed hope that the 2027 state budget policy direction would strongly support the sustainable development agenda.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 17:12 WIB
Heading to Radak Village, BSI Explore Team Traverses Rough Roads and Crosses the Kapuas River
Students from Universitas Bina Sarana Informatika Pontianak undertaking the BSI Explore 2026 programme faced a nearly three-hour journey over rough roads and across the Kapuas River to reach Radak Baru and Radak 1 villages in Kubu Raya Regency. The challenging trip served as an introduction to the area's geography and the daily lives of its residents, many of whom depend on independent oil palm smallholdings and river transport. The programme aims to foster social awareness and collaboration through activities including education, literacy, technology introduction, and village potential mapping.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 17:12 WIB
DR Congo Ebola Outbreak Surpasses 5,000 Cases with Over 2,000 Deaths
The Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo has exceeded 5,000 confirmed cases and more than 2,320 deaths across six provinces. The Africa CDC has warned that the outbreak could become the deadliest Ebola epidemic ever recorded if the rate of spread is not halted immediately. The case fatality rate is approaching 50 percent, with one life lost every 30 minutes.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 17:11 WIB
Little Aresha Daycare Carers Charged with Multiple Offences After 17 Children Kept in Small Unventilated Room
Prosecutors have charged 11 carers at Little Aresha Daycare in Yogyakarta with multiple offences under child protection laws. The indictment alleges the children were tied up, made to sleep on the floor, and confined in a dark 3x4 metre room without ventilation or air conditioning. One carer is also accused of dunking a child's head into a bathtub.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 17:11 WIB
Global fashion trends benefiting Indonesia, observer says
Fashion observer Lisa Fitria says global trends favouring craftsmanship, cultural authenticity and sustainable production present significant opportunities for Indonesia's fashion industry. She highlights the potential of traditional crafts such as Kudus embroidery and modest wear, where Indonesia ranks first globally for innovation. Lisa calls for regeneration efforts to preserve high-value artisanal skills.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 17:10 WIB
Dasco: DPR and government finalise online transport presidential regulation
The House of Representatives and the government have finalised a presidential regulation on online transport covering passenger, goods, and food delivery services. Tariff-setting authority will be split between the Ministry of Communication and Digital for goods and food, and the Ministry of Transportation for passenger transport. Online transport drivers will fall under the guidance of the Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 17:10 WIB
Israeli Occupiers Ramp Up Attacks on Southern Lebanon
Israeli fighter jets, artillery and drones have intensified strikes on multiple villages in southern Lebanon, with UNIFIL recording a sharp rise in daily munitions fire. The escalation continues despite a framework agreement signed in Washington in June that included a full ceasefire and the return of southern territory to Lebanese army control. Most local residents have been forced to flee as Israel maintains its military presence in the south.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 17:10 WIB
The Need for Investment Incentives in Upstream Oil and Gas
Indonesia's upstream oil and gas sector faces a structural decline, with natural production falling at an average annual rate of 22.3% for oil and 12% for gas between 2020 and 2025. The country's remaining hydrocarbon potential is increasingly complex, requiring tailored fiscal incentives to attract investment. Global examples show that flexible, risk-based fiscal terms are essential to reverse the decline and maintain national production.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 17:09 WIB
Bromo forest fire operation in TNBTS completed, command post officially closed
The forest and land fire operation at Mount Bromo in Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park (TNBTS) has been declared complete, with the emergency command post officially closed on Tuesday. The fire affected 1,121.66 hectares and was handled from 3 to 17 August 2026 through cross-sectoral coordination involving the military, police, disaster agencies, volunteers, and local communities. Authorities are now focusing on early detection systems, post-operation recovery, and ecosystem restoration.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 17:09 WIB
Customs Foils Smuggling of 22 Kg of Gold Worth Rp60 Billion, 2 Chinese Nationals Arrested
Indonesia's Directorate General of Customs and Excise has thwarted an attempt to export 22.317 kilograms of gold bars without proper documentation at Soekarno-Hatta Airport. Two Chinese nationals were detained, and the seized gold is estimated to be worth around Rp60 billion. The operation follows two similar interceptions earlier in August, bringing the total value of gold seized in the period to over Rp120 billion.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 17:08 WIB
Home Affairs Minister Reviews Earthquake Impact in Ende, Checks Infrastructure and Basic Services
Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian visited Ende Regency in East Nusa Tenggara to assess earthquake damage and coordinate recovery efforts. He emphasised restoring basic services such as electricity, roads, and clean water, while prioritising victim safety and medical care. The government will proceed in stages from emergency response to rehabilitation and reconstruction.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 17:08 WIB
Bulog CEO: Rice stocks in warehouses affected by NTT earthquake remain safe
The State Logistics Agency (Bulog) has confirmed that rice stocks in warehouses affected by the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara remain safe and dry, ensuring smooth distribution of food aid. Around 12 warehouses sustained light to moderate damage, and Bulog is deploying teams to survey and repair them. The agency has also positioned 10 tonnes of rice at airports and ports to accelerate emergency distribution.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 17:05 WIB
Indonesia Stocks Hit Three-Month High Before Closing 0.75% Higher
Indonesian stocks reached a three-month high on Tuesday, with the Jakarta Composite Index closing 0.75% higher at 6,449, driven by positive investor response to the government's 2027 draft state budget and its economic outlook. The rally contrasted with weakness across most Asian markets, where concerns over Middle East tensions and slowing Chinese economic momentum weighed on sentiment. Analysts noted that the market expects the government to maintain fiscal discipline as it pursues a 6% economic growth target for 2027.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 17:05 WIB
Rupiah Closes Weaker at Rp17,862 per US Dollar Today
The rupiah weakened by 64 points to close at Rp17,862 per US dollar on Tuesday, pressured by rising crude oil prices that increase dollar demand for energy imports. Indonesia's external debt position reached US$453.4 billion in the second quarter of 2026, while markets await Bank Indonesia's monetary policy decision expected to hold the BI Rate at 5.75%.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 17:05 WIB
Airfares to Papua Reaching Rp10 Million Pose Serious Economic Problem
High domestic airfares, particularly to eastern Indonesia, are hampering tourism and hotel occupancy, according to the Indonesian Hotel and Restaurant Association (PHRI). PHRI Secretary General Maulana Yusran said ticket prices from Jakarta to Papua can reach Rp10 million, limiting mobility and economic activity in regions dependent on air transport. Rising avtur prices, geopolitical tensions, spare part issues, and reliance on the US dollar are cited as key factors.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 17:04 WIB
DPR Deputy Speaker Responds to BEM UI Demand for National Disaster Status in NTT
Deputy Speaker of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) Saan Mustopa has responded to student demands for national disaster status following the earthquake in Flores, East Nusa Tenggara. He argued that the priority should be effective handling on the ground rather than the formal status, noting that central and regional governments have already responded maximally. The DPR has pledged to continue monitoring the recovery process and will coordinate further with relevant ministries and agencies.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 17:04 WIB
Health of Sebesi Island Residents Affected by Anak Krakatau Volcanic Ash
Residents of Sebesi Island in South Lampung are experiencing health impacts from volcanic ash following a series of eruptions at Mount Anak Krakatau. The local government has deployed health teams to monitor respiratory issues and has advised residents to wear masks and stay indoors. Authorities have also imposed a three-kilometre exclusion zone around the active crater.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 17:03 WIB
Chinese Tourist Falls While Taking Photo at Padar Island Peak
A Chinese tourist fell and lost consciousness while taking photos at the summit of Padar Island in Komodo National Park, East Nusa Tenggara. The victim was evacuated by a joint SAR team to Labuan Bajo and taken to Siloam Hospital for medical treatment. Authorities have urged all visitors to remain cautious and follow safety instructions when trekking in natural tourist areas.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 17:03 WIB
Saudi Legislator Condemns Israeli Occupation, Here's Why
Arab Parliament Chairman Mohamed Al-Yammahi has strongly condemned Israel's rejection of the roadmap for implementing the Gaza peace plan, describing it as open defiance of international will. He welcomed a joint statement from Arab and Islamic nations holding Israel responsible for obstructing peace efforts. Al-Yammahi called on the international community to exert effective political and legal pressure to compel Israel to comply with the roadmap and end its violations against the Palestinian people.