Archive: 18 August 2026
Showing 901-950 of 1,549 articles
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 14:19 WIB
9,551 Prisoners in Central Java Receive Remission
A total of 9,551 prisoners and juvenile inmates in Central Java have been granted remission and sentence reductions in conjunction with Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. Governor Ahmad Luthfi emphasised that remission should serve as a moment for self-evaluation and rehabilitation. Of the recipients, 254 prisoners and one juvenile inmate were released immediately.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 14:18 WIB
Adoption Grows Positively in Bali, SMARTFREN Expands Unlimited 5G
PT XLSMART Telecom Sejahtera Tbk (XLSMART) is expanding its SMARTFREN Unlimited 5G service in Bali, citing positive adoption growth and the island's dynamic digital ecosystem. The company has deployed over 1,000 5G base stations across five regencies and cities in Bali, supported by more than 17,000 BTS across the Bali Nusa Tenggara region. XLSMART also highlighted its four Ookla Speedtest Awards in H1 2026 as validation of its network investments.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 14:18 WIB
DPR Member Urges Health Ministry to Deploy Mobile Doctors for NTT Earthquake Victims
A member of the House of Representatives has called on the Ministry of Health to provide more proactive medical services, including mobile doctors, for victims and displaced persons following the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. She also highlighted the urgent need for medicines, vitamins, sanitation, and clean water, while urging better coordination by the national disaster agency. The earthquake has caused significant damage, with nearly 8,000 homes and hundreds of public facilities affected.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 14:17 WIB
Police: 21 People Detained with Flares and Molotov Cocktails Were Not Students Intending to Demonstrate
Jakarta police have detained 21 individuals found carrying flares, firecrackers and materials for Molotov cocktails ahead of student demonstrations in the capital. Authorities confirmed the detainees were not university students and are investigating whether their intended targets were security personnel, protesters or the public. Police have deployed 9,242 personnel to secure 31 demonstrations and 16 public events across the Greater Jakarta area.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 14:17 WIB
Home Affairs Minister Urges Faster Data Collection on Damaged Schools and Places of Worship After NTT Earthquake
Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian has called on regional governments to accelerate the assessment of schools and places of worship damaged by the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. He stressed that swift data collection is essential for relevant ministries to respond quickly and ensure educational and spiritual needs are met. The minister cited past disaster responses in Sumatra, where thousands of damaged schools have largely been rehabilitated.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 14:17 WIB
Agriculture Minister Amran dismisses 14 officials over alleged billion-rupiah irregularities
Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman has removed 14 officials from their posts over alleged financial irregularities involving billions of rupiah. The officials, ranging from echelon I to echelon III, have been temporarily suspended pending an investigation by the ministry's Inspectorate General. The move is part of efforts to strengthen bureaucratic reform and public trust in the agriculture sector.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 14:16 WIB
Baznas NTB donations distributed to help NTT earthquake victims
The National Amil Zakat Agency (Baznas) of West Nusa Tenggara has raised hundreds of millions of rupiah to assist victims of the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. The funds were collected through direct approaches to donors, public fundraising events, mosque networks, and social media. Baznas NTB has also deployed two waves of evacuation and logistics teams to the affected areas.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 14:15 WIB
1,700-Year-Old Church Discovered Beneath Lake İznik
Archaeologists have uncovered the remains of a small church beneath a larger basilica under Lake İznik in Turkey, dating to around 1,700 years ago. The discovery may be linked to the First Council of Nicaea in 325 AD, though experts caution against definitively identifying it as the council's meeting place. The site continues to provide new insights into early Christian history.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 14:15 WIB
Ujungjaya farmers in Sumedang welcome high grain prices during harvest season
Rice farmers in Ujungjaya, Sumedang, West Java, are benefiting from higher grain prices of Rp7,600 per kilogram at the collector level, well above the Bulog floor price of Rp6,500. The price rise coincides with a 30–40 per cent increase in productivity, attributed to reduced pest attacks and improved agricultural infrastructure. Farmers hope the favourable conditions will be sustained through continued government support.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 14:14 WIB
Citilink resumes flights from Bandung to five Indonesian cities
Citilink has resumed daily flights from Bandung to Medan, Denpasar, Surabaya, Palembang, and Balikpapan as part of the Garuda Indonesia Group's restructuring strategy. The budget carrier aims to strengthen national connectivity and support government efforts to improve regional access. The restored services are expected to boost mobility, tourism, and business activity across the archipelago.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 14:13 WIB
Ex-Jampidsus Camp Reveals 30 Legal Defects in Suspect Designation
The defence team for former Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah has identified at least 30 procedural violations in the police investigation against him. The alleged defects include a suspect designation without prior inquiry, a search conducted without proper court authorisation, and an overseas travel ban. The team has filed a pretrial motion at the South Jakarta District Court seeking to annul the suspect status and return seized assets.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 14:13 WIB
TelkomGroup Optimises Telkomsat Satellite at 17 Earthquake Points in NTT
TelkomGroup, through its subsidiary Telkomsat, has deployed satellite-based connectivity at 17 locations affected by the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara, focusing on Maumere, Ruteng, and Larantuka. The emergency measure aims to maintain digital communication access while terrestrial infrastructure recovery continues. Telkom has also provided free internet posts and emergency packages for Telkomsel customers.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 14:12 WIB
Acting Regent of Pati Misreads Pancasila While Leading Independence Day Ceremony
Acting Regent of Pati, Risma Ardhi Chandra, has drawn public attention after a video showing him misreading the second principle of Pancasila during an Independence Day ceremony went viral. The local government attributed the error to fatigue from a packed schedule of commemorative events and denied any deliberate intent. Officials have urged the public and media to respond wisely to maintain regional stability.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 14:12 WIB
Fan Broom Craftsmen in Tulungagung Receive Fibre Combing and Trimming Machine Assistance
The Politeknik Negeri Madiun community service team has delivered a fibre combing and trimming machine to the 'Pak Slamet' fan broom craftsmen group in Tulungagung. The appropriate technology is intended to boost efficiency, productivity, and product consistency for the local micro-enterprise. The programme is expected to serve as a model for collaboration between vocational higher education institutions and small businesses.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 14:11 WIB
BPS reports significant decline in shallot prices
Statistics Indonesia (BPS) has recorded a 10.64 per cent drop in the national average price of shallots to Rp37,714 per kilogram in the second week of August 2026. The price now sits within the government's reference price band, though several eastern regions still report prices well above the ceiling. BPS also noted slight declines in chicken egg and cooking oil prices over the same period.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 14:10 WIB
Mineral and Commodities Exchange to Launch 1 January 2027, Named Icomex?
Indonesia's strategic mineral and commodities exchange is set to begin operations on 1 January 2027 under the name Indonesia Commodity Exchange (Icomex). The exchange will cover key commodities such as CPO, nickel, and coal, and will be supervised by the Financial Services Authority (OJK). The initiative aims to establish domestic reference prices for Indonesian export commodities, reducing reliance on foreign exchanges.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 14:09 WIB
M 6.1 Earthquake in Sea 157 Km Southeast of Nias, No Tsunami Potential
A magnitude 6.1 earthquake struck the sea southeast of Nias Island, North Sumatra, on Tuesday afternoon. The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) reported the quake was felt in several areas of Sumatra but confirmed it did not have tsunami potential. No aftershock activity was recorded as of 13:30 WIB.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 14:09 WIB
What to consider when drinking coffee for kidney health
Coffee consumption may offer protective benefits for kidney health, including a lower risk of chronic kidney disease and kidney stones, according to nutrition experts. However, individuals with uncontrolled high blood pressure should limit their intake to one to two cups per day and monitor their blood pressure. The article highlights the balance between coffee's beneficial compounds and its potential effects on blood pressure.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 14:09 WIB
Siloam to Acquire Rp 6.9 T Hospital Properties in Shift From Leasing
Siloam International Hospitals plans to acquire 14 companies owning hospital properties worth Rp 6.9 trillion, moving from leasing to direct ownership to cut rental costs and gain operational control. The transaction will be financed through a syndicated loan facility of up to Rp 14.5 trillion from major banks, and requires shareholder approval at an extraordinary general meeting in September 2026.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 14:09 WIB
Telkomsat Satellite Optimised for 17 Locations Affected by NTT Earthquake
PT Telkom Satelit Indonesia (Telkomsat) is deploying satellite-based connectivity to 17 locations affected by the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara, including Maumere, Ruteng, and Larantuka. The initiative forms part of TelkomGroup's emergency response and recovery efforts while terrestrial network infrastructure undergoes gradual restoration. Free internet posts and emergency packages for Telkomsel customers remain available to support affected communities.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 14:09 WIB
BRIN reveals Indonesia's potential to become world palm oil biogas producer
Indonesia has significant potential to develop biogas from palm oil mill effluent (POME), with an estimated 125 million tonnes of POME available annually. BRIN researcher Prof Erma Yulihastin highlights the environmental, economic and social benefits, including reduced methane emissions and job creation. PASPI's Tungkot Sipayung proposes three national policies to optimise POME biogas utilisation, which currently stands at only 15 percent of potential.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 14:09 WIB
BMKG: Nias M6.1 Earthquake Felt Like a Passing Lorry, Reaching Agam
A magnitude 6.1 earthquake struck off Nias, North Sumatra, on Tuesday, later revised by BMKG to M5.8 at a depth of 35 km. The shallow quake, caused by subduction activity along a thrust fault, was felt across multiple regencies in Sumatra with intensities up to IV MMI. BMKG confirmed there was no tsunami potential and no aftershocks were recorded as of 13:30 WIB.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 14:09 WIB
South Papua grants general remission to 418 inmates at Merauke Prison
The South Papua provincial government has granted general remission to 418 inmates at the Class IIB Merauke Correctional Facility in conjunction with Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. Regional Secretary Ferdinandus Kainakaimu emphasised that remission is not merely a sentence reduction but an opportunity for inmates to reintegrate into society as better individuals. The prison currently houses 564 people, comprising 486 convicts and 78 detainees.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 14:08 WIB
Plenary Session Agrees Oil and Gas Bill as House Initiative Proposal
The Indonesian House of Representatives has agreed to adopt the Oil and Gas Bill as a House initiative proposal during a plenary session. The decision follows harmonisation by the Legislation Body, which approved the bill as a replacement law with 39 technical improvements. The bill will now proceed through the legislative process.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 14:08 WIB
Judge in Febrie Pretrial Hearing: Do Not Interfere with Our Independence
A South Jakarta District Court judge has urged all parties in the pretrial hearing of former junior attorney general for special crimes Febrie Adriansyah to act professionally and respect judicial independence. Febrie is challenging his designation as a suspect in a money laundering case involving 74 kilograms of gold and Rp543 billion in cash. The Attorney General's Office has also named two private individuals as co-suspects in the case.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 14:07 WIB
81 Years of Indonesian Independence, Smiles in Remote Areas Remain a Luxury
A new documentary highlights the stark inequality in dental healthcare access across Indonesia, particularly in remote communities like Kasepuhan Ciptagelar in West Java. The film reveals that while older generations maintain strong teeth due to natural diets, children now face severe tooth decay from modern sugary foods, compounded by a lack of local dentists and persistent stigma. The initiative aims to raise awareness and promote better oral health education among the public and young leaders.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 14:07 WIB
Colombia Earthquake: Direct Physical Losses Reach Rp133 Trillion
Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella has announced that direct physical losses from the devastating earthquake are estimated at 30 trillion pesos, equivalent to approximately Rp133 trillion. The preliminary modelling covers building and infrastructure damage across five departments, with Choco suffering the most severe relative impact. The government will establish the Milagro Fund to coordinate recovery efforts, drawing on the successful Forec Fund model used after the 1999 Coffee Belt earthquake.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 14:06 WIB
KPK Summons Bengkulu City Public Works Head Again in Rejang Lebong Regent Case
The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has again summoned the Head of Bengkulu City's Public Works Department, Noprisman, as a witness in the corruption case involving suspended Rejang Lebong Regent M Fikri Thobari. Two other witnesses were also called, including a former acting mayor of Bengkulu and a private contractor. The investigation is expanding, with the KPK having issued a general investigation warrant but not yet naming new suspects.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 14:06 WIB
KPK summons Kuansing JPTP selection committee and former BKPP head
Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned members of the 2025 open selection committee for high-ranking pratama positions in Kuantan Singingi Regency, along with former BKPP head Mardansyah, as witnesses. The examination relates to an alleged bribery case involving non-active Kuansing Regent Suhardiman Amby over the buying and selling of positions. The KPK is also investigating alleged gratuities linked to forest area release permits.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 14:05 WIB
KAI Daop 2 Bandung Celebrates Independence Day with 80-Tonne Locomotive Pulling Contest
PT Kereta Api Indonesia's Bandung operational region marked Indonesia's Independence Day with an unusual contest in which teams of 15 employees pulled 80-tonne locomotives. The event, involving 18 work units, was designed to foster teamwork and solidarity among staff. Additional technical competitions focused on railway safety and emergency response were also held.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 14:05 WIB
Iran War Brings Disaster, Donald Trump's Approval Rating Collapses in the US
US President Donald Trump's approval rating has fallen to its lowest level of his presidency, with only 33% of Americans approving of his performance amid fears of a prolonged war with Iran. The conflict has disrupted global oil trade and driven up petrol prices, fuelling inflation and economic anxiety. Republicans are increasingly nervous about losing their congressional majorities in the November midterm elections.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 14:04 WIB
NTB builds field hospital for earthquake victims in East Manggarai
West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) has dispatched a humanitarian solidarity team to East Manggarai, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), to establish a field hospital and public kitchen for victims of the 7.7-magnitude earthquake. The team includes medical personnel, logistics staff, and emergency responders coordinating with local authorities to ensure aid reaches those in need. The deployment underscores inter-provincial solidarity, with NTB officials emphasising that island boundaries do not diminish their commitment to assisting disaster-stricken neighbours.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 14:03 WIB
Indonesian Independence Day Carnival in Cicalengka Turns Violent, Military and Police Chiefs Assaulted
A carnival celebrating Indonesia's 81st Independence Day in Cicalengka, Bandung Regency, descended into violence when participants attacked the local military commander and police chief. Four men have been arrested in connection with the assault, which left several officials with facial injuries. Police are continuing to investigate and have urged the public to remain calm.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 14:03 WIB
Government seeks to boost domestic premium tourism market
Indonesia's Ministry of Tourism is facilitating a premium tourism market expansion by connecting high-end service providers with affluent domestic travellers and potential partners. The initiative aims to retain spending that would otherwise go abroad, capitalising on a rise in domestic travel. The government hopes this will generate greater economic benefits for businesses and communities at tourist destinations.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 14:03 WIB
Cipayung People's Banquet enlivens 81st Indonesian Independence Day with competitions and door prizes
The State Secretariat organised a People's Banquet in Cipayung, East Jakarta, to celebrate Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, featuring traditional competitions, an SME bazaar, and door prizes. The event drew enthusiastic crowds and offered prizes ranging from smartwatches and tablets for children to cash for adult team competitions. Residents expressed gratitude for the free festivities and the gifts they received.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 14:03 WIB
Bulan Bintang Flag Unrest: Government Urged to Prioritise Dialogue Over Security
A military analyst has urged the Indonesian government to treat the recent unrest over the Bulan Bintang flag in Aceh as a political warning rather than a security threat. Beni Sukadis argues that the symbol's reappearance reflects public disappointment with the central government, particularly after a major disaster in late 2025. He calls for dialogue and improved post-disaster recovery efforts instead of an excessive security response.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 14:02 WIB
Police Deploy 236 Personnel and Establish 8 Posts to Assist NTT Earthquake Victims
The Indonesian National Police have deployed 236 personnel and established eight disaster response posts to support victims of the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. The deployment includes search and rescue teams, K9 units, medical personnel, and trauma healing specialists. Police have also distributed 247 tonnes of humanitarian aid and mobilised aircraft and vessels to accelerate relief efforts.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 14:02 WIB
M 5.8 Earthquake Shakes South Nias on 18 August, BMKG: No Tsunami Potential
A tectonic earthquake of magnitude 5.8 struck South Nias, North Sumatra, on Tuesday 18 August at 13.02 WIB. The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) confirmed the shallow quake was triggered by subduction activity and posed no tsunami threat. Tremors were felt across several areas, with North Tapanuli recording intensity IV MMI.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 14:02 WIB
Tehran Floats IRGC Assault on US Base and Taking 100 American Soldiers Hostage
Former Iranian Foreign Minister and Tehran MP Manouchehr Mottaki has proposed that seizing a single US base in the Middle East would decide the outcome of the current war. Mottaki, a hardline voice in Iran's parliament, has escalated his rhetoric in recent months by suggesting Iran could occupy bases in Iraq, Kuwait and Bahrain and take up to 200 American soldiers hostage. His proposals echo the hostage-taking strategy of Iran's 1979 revolution.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 14:01 WIB
Indonesia's Textile Industry Shows Signs of Recovery
Indonesia's textile and textile products industry is showing signs of recovery, employing over 3.8 million workers and recording exports of approximately USD 4.85 billion in the first half of 2026. The government is supporting the sector through investment incentives, restructuring programmes, and trade safeguard policies, while emphasising the need for modernisation and sustainability. The Minister of Industry highlighted that the Indonesia-EU CEPA and a strong Industrial Confidence Index of 53.10 provide further opportunities for growth and global competitiveness.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 14:01 WIB
Tito Urges Faster Data Collection on Damaged Schools and Places of Worship in NTT
Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian has called on local governments in East Nusa Tenggara to expedite the assessment of schools and places of worship damaged by recent earthquakes. The data will serve as a reference for relevant ministries to act quickly in restoring educational and religious facilities. Tito highlighted the central government's commitment to ensuring learning continues, including through emergency tents where necessary.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 14:00 WIB
Not Just Awards: Special Performance at Koperasi Awards 2026
The Ministry of Cooperatives will host the Koperasi Awards 2026 on 20 August 2026 to honour individuals who have contributed to developing and strengthening cooperatives as part of Indonesia's people's economy movement. The event will feature five award categories recognising government officials, cooperative movement figures, and community leaders. The ceremony aims to inspire more champions of cooperative development across the country.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 14:00 WIB
Coordinator of 'MerebutKemerdekaan' Action: We Will Break Through If Blocked on the Way to Bundaran HI
The field coordinator for the 'MerebutKemerdekaan' protest from BEM UI, Hafidz Hernanda, has stated that demonstrators plan to fully occupy the Bundaran Hotel Indonesia area, with an expected turnout of 1,000 to 1,500 people. He warned that protesters would push through any roadblocks, acknowledging that clashes with opposing groups are likely. Hernanda also expressed frustration that months of negotiations since 12 June had yielded no results, with authorities instead reinforcing barriers and blocking roads with tactical vehicles.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 14:00 WIB
World Humanitarian Day 2026: Commemorated on 19 August
World Humanitarian Day, observed annually on 19 August, honours humanitarian workers and stands in solidarity with people affected by crises worldwide. The day was established by the UN General Assembly in 2008 to commemorate the 2003 bombing of the UN headquarters in Baghdad. The 2026 global campaign focuses on 'Families of Fallen Humanitarians', highlighting the personal stories of aid workers through the voices of their families and communities.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 14:00 WIB
Tackling Stunting in Denpasar: Nutrition Fulfilment and Foster Parents as Priorities
The Denpasar city government is intensifying cross-sector efforts to eliminate stunting through sustainable nutrition education and a foster parent programme supported by the business community. The initiative includes a dedicated kitchen providing monthly meals and guidance to mothers and stunted children, alongside corporate social responsibility funding from Kadin members. Officials also highlight administrative challenges posed by migrant families and remain optimistic about gradually achieving a stunting-free target.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 14:00 WIB
Indonesian Navy Deploys Military Assets and Floating Hospital for Flores Earthquake Victims
The Indonesian Navy has mobilised warships and a floating hospital to accelerate emergency response efforts following a magnitude 7.7 earthquake in Flores, East Nusa Tenggara. KRI dr. Soeharso will serve as a referral medical facility at Reo Port, while additional vessels and 200 personnel support logistics distribution and field operations. The sea route is being prioritised to cut transport time from Labuan Bajo to Reo from nine hours by land to approximately two and a half hours by sea.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 14:00 WIB
Freeport Contributes Rp 75 Trillion to Indonesia Throughout 2025
PT Freeport Indonesia (PTFI) reported a state contribution of Rp 75 trillion in 2025, including Rp 13 trillion for Mimika Regency and other districts in Central Papua. The company projects a lower contribution of Rp 47 trillion in 2026 due to production being limited to 65% following a landslide at the Grasberg Block Cave underground mine. PTFI expects full production recovery by the end of 2027, which could lift annual state contributions to over Rp 100 trillion.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 14:00 WIB
Ministry of Transport: Airports in Flores and Surrounding Areas Remain Operational
The Ministry of Transport has confirmed that all airports in Flores and surrounding areas of East Nusa Tenggara remain operational following an earthquake. Several airports sustained damage to terminal buildings and support facilities, but flight services continue with mitigation measures and restricted access to at-risk areas. The ministry is prioritising safety while ensuring airports can support humanitarian aid, logistics, and post-disaster response.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 13:59 WIB
KPK Summons PALI Regent as Witness in Muara Enim Bribery Case
The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned the Regent of Penukal Abab Lematang Ilir, Asgianto, as a witness in the bribery case involving the suspended Regent of Muara Enim, Edison. The case relates to alleged corruption connected to a BPK audit finding within the Muara Enim Regency Government. Several other officials from Muara Enim have also been called for questioning.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 13:59 WIB
Early Childhood Educators Optimise Urban Agriculture Through Storytelling and Plant Tracking Journal
A community service programme in West Jakarta is equipping early childhood educators with hydroponic vertical farming techniques, storytelling methods, and plant tracking journals to transform limited urban spaces into interactive nature laboratories. The initiative, led by Universitas Indraprasta PGRI in partnership with Universitas Pertiwi, aims to build ecological literacy, self-reliance, and family food security from the earliest age. The programme aligns with national research priorities and contributes to Sustainable Development Goals on zero hunger, quality education, and sustainable cities.