Archive: 18 August 2026
Showing 551-600 of 1,549 articles
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 17:02 WIB
Basarnas Reports NTT Earthquake Death Toll Reaches 70, with 132 Injured
Indonesia's National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas) has confirmed that the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) has claimed 70 lives, with 132 people injured. Search teams continue to sweep affected areas on the fourth day, although no further missing persons have been reported. Basarnas is also strengthening health teams to reach remote areas still lacking medical services.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 17:02 WIB
81st Independence Day: 20,500 Prisoners in West Java Receive General Remission
More than 20,500 prisoners across West Java received general remission to mark Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, with 346 of them being released immediately. The symbolic handover was led by West Java Deputy Governor Erwan Setiawan at Banceuy Prison in Bandung. Officials emphasised that remission serves as motivation for inmates to engage positively in rehabilitation programmes.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 17:01 WIB
Sikka Regency Government ensures no aid backlog at emergency posts
The Sikka Regency administration in East Nusa Tenggara has confirmed that relief supplies for earthquake victims are being distributed promptly, with no accumulation at emergency posts. Distribution is ongoing across 21 sub-districts, including direct delivery to Palue Island by the regent and local officials. The government is also providing clean water to Kringa village following contamination from the Lewotobi volcano eruption.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 17:01 WIB
Meidyatama: Independence Day celebration at Bucharest embassy strengthens solidarity
Indonesia's Ambassador to Romania and Moldova, Meidyatama Suryodiningrat, said the 81st Independence Day commemoration at the Indonesian Embassy in Bucharest demonstrated that distance does not diminish the Indonesian spirit among citizens abroad. The ceremony also served as a moment to express solidarity with earthquake victims in East Nusa Tenggara. The event brought together Indonesian citizens, students, migrant workers, and Romanian friends of Indonesia.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 17:01 WIB
After NTT Earthquake, Health Minister Confirms Komodo Regional Hospital as Referral Hospital
Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin has confirmed that Komodo Regional Hospital in Labuan Bajo will serve as the main referral hospital for earthquake victims from Manggarai and East Manggarai regencies. The Ministry of Public Works has verified the building's structural integrity, declaring it safe for use despite minor cracks. Patients remain reluctant to move indoors due to trauma, prompting the minister to request official documentation to reassure them.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 17:00 WIB
Chinese Nationals Nearly Smuggle 22 Kg of Gold to Hong Kong, Here's How
Indonesian customs officials at Soekarno-Hatta Airport foiled an attempt to smuggle 22.32 kg of gold bars worth approximately Rp60.2 billion to Hong Kong. Two Chinese nationals were arrested using different concealment methods, including hiding gold in cabin luggage and strapping it to their bodies. The case also allegedly involved an airport staff member who used operational access to move the gold between terminals.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 17:00 WIB
Utility Network Project Prompts Traffic Diversions on Jalan Kramat Raya and Matraman
The Jakarta Transportation Agency is implementing phased traffic diversions on Jalan Kramat Raya and Jalan Matraman Raya to accommodate utility network construction. The project, carried out by the Jakarta Bina Marga Office, involves installing manhole frames, HDPE pipes, and other infrastructure, with Transjakarta bus separators being dismantled in stages to add vehicle lanes. Motorists are advised to avoid the affected roads and follow traffic management measures during the works, which run from August to November 2026.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 17:00 WIB
Home Affairs Minister Visits Ende to Assess Earthquake Damage and Recovery Needs
Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian visited Ende Regency in East Nusa Tenggara to inspect earthquake damage and evaluate recovery requirements. He emphasised that restoring basic services such as electricity, roads, and clean water is a priority, alongside the evacuation and treatment of victims. The government will proceed in stages from emergency response to rehabilitation and reconstruction.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 17:00 WIB
Riau Police Seize Rp973 Million from Gold Shop Receiving Illegal Mining Proceeds in Kuansing
Riau Police's Special Criminal Investigation Directorate has seized Rp972.8 million in cash from a gold shop in Kampar Regency, suspected to be proceeds from illegal gold mining in Kuantan Singingi. Two suspects have been named: a financier and mine owner, and the gold shop owner who acted as a receiver of the illegal mining output. The case involves an estimated Rp1.578 billion in illegal transactions, with charges including mineral and coal mining law violations and money laundering.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 16:59 WIB
Where Is Foreign Direct Investment Moving?
Foreign direct investment is no longer simply chasing lower production costs. Global capital is now moving in line with geopolitics, technology, energy and future industries, creating a new trade map that companies and countries need to read.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 16:59 WIB
Cooperative LPDB disbursement reaches Rp1.15 trillion up to July 2026
The Cooperative Revolving Fund Management Institution (LPDB) has disbursed Rp1.15 trillion in revolving funds up to July 2026, a 44.45 per cent increase from the same period last year. The institution is prioritising financing for cooperatives in the real sector and productive business activities. The Cooperatives Minister has urged LPDB to strengthen its role in financing the government's Merah Putih village and sub-district cooperatives programme.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 16:58 WIB
Indonesia's 81st Independence Day in Oslo strengthens unity and diplomacy
The Indonesian Embassy in Oslo used the 81st Independence Day celebrations to foster unity among the Indonesian community while promoting Indonesian culture and economic potential in Norway. Ambassador Teuku Faizasyah highlighted the strong sense of national pride among Indonesians abroad. The events culminated in a planned diplomatic reception aimed at strengthening business ties between Indonesia and Norway.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 16:56 WIB
Raja Juli Announces Bromo to Reopen on 20 August
Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni has announced that the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park will reopen on 20 August after all fire hotspots were extinguished. The blaze, which lasted 13 days, affected 1,120 hectares of land. The minister urged the public to help prevent future fires in the area.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 16:55 WIB
Shooting at Philippine School Shocks Nation, Perpetrator Live Streamed Attack
A ninth-grade student opened fire at a private Catholic high school in Zamboanga, Philippines, killing at least one classmate before taking his own life. The attacker live streamed the assault on social media, and authorities are investigating the motive and how the firearm was brought onto campus. The incident marks the second school shooting in the Philippines within two months.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 16:55 WIB
81st Independence Day: PLBN Wini Affirms Border's Role as the Nation's Front Porch
The 81st Indonesian Independence Day ceremony at the Wini Cross-Border Post highlighted the strategic importance of border areas as the forefront of national sovereignty. The event underscored the government's commitment to improving public services, infrastructure, and economic development in border regions. Awards were also presented to civil servants for their dedication to border management.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 16:55 WIB
Pertamina's Swift Action to Secure Energy Supply After NTT Earthquake Praised
The Indonesian Consumer Empowerment Forum (FKBI) has praised Pertamina for its rapid response in maintaining energy distribution and delivering humanitarian aid following the earthquake in Nusa Tenggara Timur. The forum stressed that fuel availability is critical for disaster response, affecting logistics, food supply, clean water, and public services. Pertamina has confirmed it is restoring fuel facilities in affected areas and strengthening distribution through alternative routes.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 16:55 WIB
Apple's Newest AirPods to Feature Camera, Here's Its Function
Apple is reportedly preparing to launch AirPods equipped with a camera, with evidence found in the macOS 26.7 Release Candidate code. The camera's primary function is to serve as 'eyes' for Siri through Visual Intelligence, allowing the earbuds to recognise objects and provide contextual information without requiring the user to take out their iPhone. The device is expected to be unveiled alongside new iPhones in early September.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 16:54 WIB
11 Defendants in Palm Oil Waste Export Corruption Case Charged with Causing Rp 7.3 Trillion in State Losses
Eleven defendants have been charged in a corruption case involving the export of palm oil mill effluent (POME) and crude palm oil (CPO) between 2022 and 2024, allegedly causing state losses of Rp 7.3 trillion. Prosecutors claim the defendants manipulated commodity classifications to reduce export duties. The case involves former customs officials and directors of several palm oil companies.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 16:54 WIB
Tangerang strengthens spatial planning regulation to support MRT and BRT integration
The Tangerang Regency administration is accelerating revisions to its Regional Spatial Plan (RTRW) to provide a stronger regulatory foundation for the planned MRT and BRT mass transit systems. The Kembangan–Balaraja MRT line, spanning 30 kilometres with 14 stations, is still undergoing a feasibility study, with financing options under review. Private developers including Summarecon, Alam Sutera, Paramount, and Lippo Karawaci are expected to collaborate on integrated transit-oriented development.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 16:54 WIB
How the Cikarang Bus Depot Fire Started, Leaving 50 Buses Burnt
A fire at the PO Sinar Jaya bus depot in Cikarang Barat, West Java, destroyed 50 buses that were no longer in service. Firefighters faced challenges including limited water access and intense heat radiating towards nearby residential areas. The cause of the fire remains unknown, and no official estimate of material losses has been released.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 16:54 WIB
Eight Witnesses Questioned over Febrie Adriansyah Money Laundering Case
The Attorney General's Office has questioned eight witnesses and one expert as part of its investigation into alleged money laundering linked to former Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah. The inquiry follows the handover of evidence from the police, including 74 kilograms of gold and hundreds of billions of rupiah in foreign currency. Prosecutors say the investigation is being conducted professionally and in accordance with the presumption of innocence.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 16:52 WIB
State Secretary: Online Motorcycle Taxi Presidential Regulation to Be Issued End of August or Early September at the Latest
The Indonesian government is finalising a presidential regulation governing online motorcycle taxi (ojol) services, with issuance targeted for the end of August or early September at the latest. State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi said a common understanding has been reached after several coordination meetings with House of Representatives leaders. The State Secretariat will lead the harmonisation process with stakeholders, including ride-hailing app operators, before the regulation is finalised.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 16:52 WIB
Mataram District Court Reviews Prosecutors' Cassation Appeal Against Acquittal of Three NTB DPRD Members
The Mataram District Court is examining a cassation appeal filed by the West Nusa Tenggara High Prosecutor's Office against the acquittal of three regional legislators in a gratuity case. The court notes that under Article 299 of the new Criminal Procedure Code, acquittals cannot normally be appealed to cassation. A formal decision on the appeal's admissibility is expected shortly.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 16:51 WIB
Rosan Roeslani Unveils 2027 Investment Strategy, Plantation and Forestry Downstreaming
Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani has outlined Indonesia's 2027 investment target of Rp2,322 trillion, with downstreaming positioned as a key growth engine. The government is also preparing a sovereign wealth fund-style PFII to attract global investors and family offices, with initial outreach already conducted in Asia. Mineral downstreaming remains dominant, but plantation and forestry sectors are being developed as new pillars.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 16:51 WIB
Rupiah Pressured to Rp17,862, Oil Prices and Foreign Debt in Focus
The Indonesian rupiah weakened by 64 points to close at Rp17,862 per US dollar on Tuesday, 18 August 2026, amid rising crude oil prices and growing foreign debt concerns. Currency analyst Ibrahim Assuaibi attributed the pressure to increased dollar demand for energy imports and predicted continued volatility, with the rupiah expected to trade between Rp17,860 and Rp17,920 the following day.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 16:50 WIB
Ambon Prison strengthens inmate self-reliance programme through cooperative
Ambon Class IIA Prison has reopened its Patita Mart and Cafe cooperative as a vocational training facility for inmates, following a fire in June 2026. The initiative aims to equip prisoners with practical work skills, discipline and confidence ahead of their reintegration into society. Prison officials say the cooperative will be managed professionally and transparently to ensure its sustainability.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 16:50 WIB
Indonesia's Upstream Oil and Gas Investment Pushed to Reach US$20.5 Billion in 2027
The Indonesian government under President Prabowo Subianto is targeting oil lifting of 610,000 barrels per day and gas lifting of around 954,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day by 2027. This is expected to support non-tax state revenue of approximately Rp120.99 trillion and drive upstream oil and gas investment to around US$20.5 billion. Fiscal incentives and infrastructure development are among the strategies being prepared to achieve these targets.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 16:49 WIB
Eighty one years on, Indonesia's drug war goes on
Indonesia continues its long-running fight against narcotics trafficking, highlighted by the arrest of a Malaysian pilot accused of smuggling 25 kilograms of ecstasy into Soekarno-Hatta Airport. The case has prompted Malaysia to consider deploying police at airports and reviewing airline crew screening. Indonesian authorities are also emphasising prevention efforts, including destroying seized drugs in Bogor to protect young people.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 16:49 WIB
Poll: Trump approval rating falls
A Reuters/Ipsos poll shows US President Donald Trump's approval rating has dropped to 33 percent, the lowest of his presidency, amid public concern over the US conflict with Iran. The decline comes as a 60-day negotiation period under a US-Iran memorandum of understanding is set to expire without progress toward a broader peace agreement. A separate Financial Times poll found 53 percent of US voters say their situation has worsened under Trump's leadership.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 16:48 WIB
IHSG Closes Up 0.75 Percent at 6,449; Which Stocks Were the Movers?
The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) ended Tuesday's trading session in positive territory, rising 0.75 percent to close at 6,449.830. The gain was supported by broad market strength, with 399 stocks advancing against 236 decliners. Trading activity remained robust, with transaction value reaching Rp14.67 trillion.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 16:48 WIB
Legislator urges use of ready-to-use funds for damaged schools in NTT
A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has called on the government to immediately disburse ready-to-use disaster funds to revitalise 253 schools damaged by an earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. Abdul Fikri Faqih stressed that swift action is crucial for the safety of students and to ensure children's right to education is not neglected. He also urged cross-agency coordination and transparent oversight of the reconstruction process.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 16:48 WIB
Highlighting Unequal Teacher Distribution in Regions, Deputy Speaker Cucun Pledges to Revise National Education System Law
Deputy Speaker of the Indonesian House of Representatives Cucun Ahmad Syamsurijal has pledged to reform the National Education System Law to address the uneven distribution of teachers across regions. Speaking at Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia in Bandung, he highlighted how rigid regulations have left some districts with surplus teachers while others face shortages. He also stressed the need for an integrated national education ecosystem and meaningful public participation in drafting the new law.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 16:48 WIB
DPR and Government Finalise Online Transport Presidential Regulation, Covering Passenger and Food Delivery Tariffs
The House of Representatives and several ministries have finalised a Presidential Regulation on online transport that will cover passenger, goods, and food delivery services. Tariffs for goods and food will be regulated by the Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs, while passenger tariffs will fall under the Ministry of Transportation. Online transport operators will be overseen by the Ministry of SMEs.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 16:48 WIB
Residents Suffer Breathing Difficulties Due to Volcanic Ash from Anak Krakatau Eruption
Residents of Tejang Village on Sebesi Island in South Lampung have reported respiratory problems caused by volcanic ash from the ongoing eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau. The ash has been carried by wind and affected the local community for up to three days. Authorities have advised residents to wear masks as the volcano's activity has intensified, with 20 eruptions recorded in a single day.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 16:47 WIB
Human Rights Minister: Free nutritious meals and health check-ups fulfil basic rights
Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai has stated that the Free Nutritious Meals programme and free health check-ups are part of the government's efforts to fulfil citizens' basic rights to food and health. Speaking at the inauguration of a Human Rights Study Centre in Mimika, Papua, he emphasised that human rights fulfilment extends beyond addressing violence and legal violations to include meeting basic needs. Pigai also highlighted the importance of health access for people in remote areas with limited medical services.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 16:46 WIB
AGO's Team 9 examines eight witnesses in Febrie Adriansyah money laundering case
The Attorney General's Office's Team 9 has examined eight witnesses and one expert in the investigation into alleged money laundering with predicate corruption involving former Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah. Seven witnesses are from the private sector and one from banking, as investigators seek to clarify the case construction and trace assets suspected to derive from criminal proceeds. The AGO has named two suspects in the case: Febrie Adriansyah and private party Nurman Herin.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 16:46 WIB
Indonesia's External Debt Rises to $453.4B in Q2
Indonesia's external debt increased 4.4% year-on-year to $453.4 billion in the second quarter of 2026, driven by higher public-sector borrowing while private-sector debt continued to decline. Bank Indonesia attributed the rise to inflows into government securities and nonresident holdings of rupiah securities, reflecting investor confidence despite global uncertainty. The debt-to-GDP ratio remained stable at 30.6%, with long-term borrowing accounting for over 82% of the total.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 16:46 WIB
National Police Health Service Ensures West Jakarta People's Banquet Food Safe for Consumption
The National Police Health Service (Dokkes Polri) inspected food prepared for the West Jakarta People's Banquet on Tuesday, 18 August 2026, to ensure it met safety standards. Testing across all distribution points found no formalin or other harmful substances in the food supplied by local MSMEs. The inspection was part of broader oversight to guarantee that all dishes served to the public were safe and nutritionally adequate.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 16:45 WIB
Demonstration at South Jakarta District Court: Protesters Demand Rejection of Febrie Adriansyah's Pretrial Motion
A group of demonstrators gathered outside the South Jakarta District Court during the first hearing of former Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah's pretrial motion, demanding that the petition be rejected. The protesters urged law enforcement to thoroughly investigate the corruption cases involving Febrie and insisted that the pretrial process be conducted transparently and without intervention. Febrie is challenging his suspect designation and asset seizures in a case registered under number 134 Pid.Pra/2026/PN JKT.SEL.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 16:45 WIB
IHSG Rises 0.75% to 6,449, Lifted by BYAN Shares
The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) gained 0.75% on Tuesday, driven by a 20% surge in Bayan Resources shares amid market speculation that Haji Isam's Jhonlin Group is seeking a controlling stake. The energy sector led the advance, while investors also awaited Bank Indonesia's rate decision and the release of external debt statistics.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 16:45 WIB
Three BRIN-Built Houses Withstand M7.7 Earthquake in NTT
Three prototype earthquake-resistant houses developed by Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) remained standing after a magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck East Nusa Tenggara. The houses, built in 2021–2022, use rubber bearing seismic technology and modular construction. BRIN plans further laboratory testing and encourages wider replication of the model in disaster-prone areas.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 16:44 WIB
20,500 Prisoners in West Java Prisons and Detention Centres Granted Remission for Indonesia's 81st Independence Day
More than 20,000 prisoners across West Java have received sentence reductions to mark Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. The remissions were granted to inmates who demonstrated good behaviour and participated in rehabilitation programmes. Officials said the measure aims to motivate prisoners and accelerate their reintegration into society.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 16:42 WIB
UBSI Lecturer Joins BRIN Research on Regional Endowment Fund Model for Sustainable Development
A lecturer from Universitas Bina Sarana Informatika (UBSI) has joined a national research project led by the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) to study regional endowment fund management models. The study aims to align fund management with regional characteristics to support sustainable development and strengthen local governance. The collaboration involves researchers from BRIN and academics from several Indonesian universities.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 16:40 WIB
Amran Removes 14 Agriculture Ministry Officials - Grade 9 Student Shoots Classmates
Agriculture Minister and Head of the National Food Agency (BAPANAS) Amran Sulaiman has dismissed 14 officials from the Ministry of Agriculture over alleged irregularities involving billions of Rupiah. In a separate incident, a Grade 9 student opened fire at a school in the Philippines that also houses kindergarten, primary, and junior high levels.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 16:40 WIB
Energy Saving with Cassava Waste Briquettes and Financial Management for Opak SMEs in Deli Serdang
A community service programme funded by the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology is helping cassava cracker producers in Deli Serdang turn waste into bioenergy briquettes. The initiative also aims to strengthen financial management among local SMEs. The programme addresses both environmental pollution from cassava waste and the high cost of firewood used in production.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 16:40 WIB
Prabowo's 5 Strategies to Safeguard Energy Security in 2027: B50 and Electric Motorcycle Conversion
The Indonesian government under President Prabowo Subianto has outlined five key policies to strengthen national energy security in 2027, including accelerating the B50 biodiesel mandate and converting 63,000 petrol motorcycles to electric. The measures aim to address challenges such as suboptimal oil and gas lifting, fossil fuel dependence, and uneven energy access while supporting the transition towards renewable energy.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 16:40 WIB
JLL: Demand for landed houses in Greater Jakarta remains stable
Property consultancy Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL) reports that demand for landed houses in Greater Jakarta remained relatively stable in the first half of 2026, with cumulative sales reaching around 90 percent. Consumer preferences have shifted towards four-bedroom homes, driven by improved facilities in integrated townships. The Rp600 million to Rp1.3 billion price segment remained the largest, while the above Rp3 billion segment also grew significantly.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 16:40 WIB
Technology Collaboration Strengthens Digital Security and AI in ASEAN
TOTM Technologies and Indonesia's KORIKA have launched a strategic partnership to address the gap between rapid digital economic growth and digital security infrastructure readiness in Southeast Asia. The collaboration focuses on safe and responsible AI development, quantum-secure blockchain infrastructure, and interoperable cross-border digital credentials. Both parties see the initiative as a step towards a more integrated and trusted ASEAN digital economy aligned with the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 16:39 WIB
Ministers Gather to Discuss Fate of GrabFood-GoFood, Here's What They Said
Several Indonesian ministries met on Thursday to finalise a presidential regulation on online motorcycle taxis, expected to be issued by late August or early September 2026. The regulation will comprehensively cover passenger transport, goods delivery, 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.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 16:38 WIB
Confirmed Ebola cases in DR Congo surpass 5,000
The Democratic Republic of the Congo has recorded more than 5,000 confirmed Ebola cases and over 2,320 deaths across six provinces. The Africa CDC warns the outbreak could become the deadliest Ebola epidemic ever recorded unless the rate of spread is halted immediately. The agency notes the outbreak is already the deadliest in the country's history and the fastest-growing ever recorded, with a case fatality ratio approaching 50 percent.