Archive: 18 August 2026
Showing 1,251-1,300 of 1,549 articles
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:54 WIB
BEM UI to Stage Protest at Bundaran HI Today
The University of Indonesia's Student Executive Board (BEM UI) is holding a demonstration at the Bundaran HI roundabout in Central Jakarta today, presenting eight demands to the government. The protest, titled #MerebutKemerdekaan (Seizing Independence), comes a day after the state ceremony and questions the meaning of independence being celebrated. The students are calling for lower fuel and staple food prices, an end to corruption, genuine agrarian reform, and the declaration of a national disaster status for affected regions in Sumatra and Flores.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:54 WIB
Palace: Independence Day festivities to be held in 40 densely populated Jakarta neighbourhoods
The Indonesian government is expanding the 81st Independence Day celebrations to 40 densely populated areas across Jakarta to make the event more inclusive and accessible to the public. State Secretary Minister Prasetyo Hadi said the move reflects President Prabowo Subianto's message that independence belongs to all Indonesians, not just those at central celebration sites. Activities will include traditional competitions, music stages, local MSME bazaars, free health checks, and distribution of basic food packages.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:53 WIB
Pramono Anung Instructs Public Service Civil Servants Not to Work from Home Today
Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has directed civil servants involved in public services to report to their posts rather than work from home, emphasising the need for direct interaction with the public. The instruction comes as schools in the capital are permitted to implement distance learning to mark Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, in line with a central government directive.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:53 WIB
Former Investree CEO Adrian Gunadi Sentenced to 3 Years in Prison for Illegal Investment Case
Adrian Asharyanto, former CEO of Investree, has been sentenced to three years in prison and fined Rp 500 million for his role in an illegal investment scheme. The court found that he and his associate Alan Perdana Putra used PT Putra Radhika Investama to collect over Rp 2 trillion from the public without OJK authorisation. The sentence is lighter than the five years sought by prosecutors.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:53 WIB
Indonesian Embassy in Baku strengthens diaspora unity during 81st Independence Day
The Indonesian Embassy in Baku used the 81st anniversary of Indonesia's independence to reinforce unity among the Indonesian community in Azerbaijan and deepen ties with local partners. The celebrations, themed 'A Sovereign, Just, and Prosperous Indonesia', culminated in a flag-raising ceremony attended by diaspora members, professionals, students, and friends of Indonesia. Ambassador Berlian Helmy led the ceremony, which also featured traditional games and Indonesian cuisine.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:52 WIB
Amran Temporarily Removes 14 Agriculture Ministry Officials, Non-Job Status Effective Today
Agriculture Minister Amran Sulaiman has temporarily dismissed 14 officials from the Ministry of Agriculture over alleged financial irregularities involving billions of rupiah. The move, which includes Echelon I, II, and III officials, was announced alongside the appointment of more than 30 Echelon II officials as part of a merit-based refresh and disciplinary action. Amran said the decision has been reported to President Prabowo Subianto, who responded with a firm instruction to proceed.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:51 WIB
BI: Indonesia's external debt rises to 453.4 billion US dollars in Q2 2026
Bank Indonesia reported that Indonesia's external debt rose 4.4 percent year-on-year to 453.4 billion US dollars in the second quarter of 2026, with a debt-to-GDP ratio of 30.6 percent. The increase was driven by higher public sector borrowing, while private external debt contracted at a slower pace. The central bank said the debt structure remains healthy, dominated by long-term obligations.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:50 WIB
Freeport Targets State Contribution of Rp 47 Trillion in 2026
PT Freeport Indonesia projects its contribution to state revenue will reach Rp 47 trillion in 2026, driven by a production recovery plan targeting 800 million pounds of copper and 700,000 ounces of gold. The company expects contributions to more than double to over Rp 100 trillion annually once full capacity is restored by the end of 2027. PTFI is also advancing the Kucing Liar underground mine development with an investment of Rp 72 trillion to secure long-term output.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:47 WIB
Complete list of gold prices for three brands at Pegadaian on Tuesday
Gold prices at Pegadaian on Tuesday showed Galeri24 at Rp2,676,000 per gram, Antam at Rp2,736,000, and UBS at Rp2,747,000. Compared with Monday, Galeri24 and Antam prices declined while UBS rose slightly. The article provides a full price list for each brand across various weights.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:47 WIB
Indonesia's External Debt Surges to Rp8,089 Trillion
Bank Indonesia reported that Indonesia's external debt reached US$453.4 billion (Rp8,089.1 trillion) in the second quarter of 2026, growing 4.4% year-on-year. The increase was driven by higher public sector borrowing and a slower contraction in private external debt. The central bank maintains that the debt structure remains healthy, with long-term debt accounting for 82.1% of the total and a debt-to-GDP ratio of 30.6%.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:46 WIB
Baby Gempita Born in Emergency Amid Panic of NTT M 7.7 Earthquake
A premature baby weighing just 1.3 kilograms was delivered by emergency caesarean section during the magnitude 7.7 earthquake that struck East Nusa Tenggara. Medical staff at a hospital in Nagekeo Regency operated by torchlight without electricity as the building shook, successfully saving both mother and child. The infant, named Gempita after the earthquake, remains in intensive care in an outdoor emergency tent.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:46 WIB
Ministry Reports 324 Schools in 7 NTT Regencies Damaged by Earthquake
The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has reported that 324 schools across seven regencies in East Nusa Tenggara have been damaged by a recent earthquake. Emergency measures include the erection of 50 tents for temporary classrooms and the dispatch of family and school supply kits. The ministry is continuing to assess damage and coordinate with the provincial government to ensure aid reaches those in need.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:46 WIB
Trump debate and the biological facts of the MMR vaccine
The article examines the biological facts behind the MMR vaccine debate sparked by US President Donald Trump's questioning of its safety. It explains the distinct characteristics and risks of measles, mumps, and rubella, and notes there is no scientific evidence supporting claims that MMR causes autism or poses dangers comparable to nuclear weapons.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:45 WIB
Earthquake Aid Reaches Palue Island in NTT, Sent by Sea and Air
The National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) and a joint team have delivered logistical aid and basic necessities to communities affected by the earthquake on Palue Island, Sikka Regency, East Nusa Tenggara. Aid was transported by sea and air to accelerate the fulfilment of needs in the island region hit by the magnitude 7.7 quake. Distribution continues to face challenges due to damaged roads, while electricity restoration and medical support are also underway.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:45 WIB
Once Discarded, Where Is Sukarno's Handwritten Proclamation Manuscript Now?
The handwritten draft of Indonesia's Proclamation of Independence by Sukarno was nearly destroyed after the typed version was finalised on 17 August 1945. Journalist B.M. Diah rescued the discarded document and kept it for decades before handing it over to President Soeharto in 1992. The manuscript is now preserved at the National Archives of the Republic of Indonesia as a vital record of the proclamation's origins.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:45 WIB
Glimpsing the Sun's Final Fate Through the Recycling of Dead Stars in the Helix Nebula
Astronomers have directly observed the moment material shed by a dying star is broken down and reabsorbed into the interstellar medium, using new observations of the Helix Nebula. The findings, published in Nature, reveal that planetary nebula material survives only about 10,000 years after colliding with interstellar gas before being fully recycled. This process offers a preview of the eventual fate of our own Sun, which is expected to shed its outer layers into a similar nebula in about five billion years.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:45 WIB
Pramono Anung: Public Service Officers Prohibited from WFH
Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has clarified that the work-from-home policy announced for 18 August does not apply to civil servants who provide direct public services. The policy, issued in response to central government directives, aims to ensure that essential services remain accessible while other staff work remotely.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:44 WIB
Batam halts 4,624 suspected non-procedural migrant workers in first half
The Batam Immigration Office prevented 4,624 suspected non-procedural Indonesian migrant workers from departing between January and July 2026. Officials said the measure aims to ensure workers use proper channels and receive legal protection, not to block legitimate overseas employment. Malaysia and Singapore were the most common suspected destinations.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:44 WIB
Basarnas helicopter evacuates elderly and toddler injured in NTT earthquake
Indonesia's National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas) deployed a helicopter to evacuate three earthquake victims in East Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, who required emergency medical treatment. The victims, including a five-year-old girl, suffered fractures and bone dislocations following the 7.7-magnitude earthquake. They were airlifted to Komodo Airport and transferred to a referral hospital for intensive care.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:43 WIB
YADEA Expands Market Reach in the Philippines with Three New Flagship Stores in Cebu
Global electric mobility brand YADEA has opened three new flagship stores in Cebu, the Philippines, marking its expansion into the central region of the country. The stores were launched in partnership with M Lhuillier, a leading non-bank financial services provider with over 3,000 branches nationwide. The move reinforces YADEA's long-term commitment to growing its business in Southeast Asia.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:41 WIB
Lebak Regent Hands Over Aid to Vulnerable Workers and Veterans for Independence Day
The Lebak Regency Government marked Indonesia's Independence Day by distributing social protection assistance, including full coverage of employment social security for 3,450 vulnerable workers. The regent also handed over Rp 25 million in gratuity funds to 50 veterans and provided additional support for people with disabilities and local farmers.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:41 WIB
Erdogan urges Trump to continue negotiations with Iran
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has called on US President Donald Trump to maximise diplomacy and resume negotiations to ease tensions between Washington and Tehran. During a phone call, the two leaders also discussed bilateral ties, regional security cooperation with Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, and the situation in Gaza. Erdogan reaffirmed Ankara's support for long-term peace and reconstruction efforts in the Palestinian enclave.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:40 WIB
Benny Anwar Resigns from TAYS Board of Directors
PT Jaya Swarasa Agung Tbk. (TAYS) has announced the resignation of Benny Anwar from its board of directors, citing personal reasons. The company received his resignation letter on 31 July 2026. The resignation will take effect once approved at the company's General Meeting of Shareholders, in accordance with the company's articles of association and OJK regulations.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:39 WIB
Forestry Ministry announces birth of baby elephant at PKG Jalur 21 as Independence Day gift
The Ministry of Forestry has announced the birth of a male Sumatran elephant calf at the Elephant Conservation Centre (PKG) Jalur 21 in South Sumatra, coinciding with Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. The calf, born to mother Lestari and father Gapula, was able to stand and nurse shortly after birth. The BKSDA South Sumatra is providing intensive 24/7 monitoring and special care to ensure the health and development of both mother and calf.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:39 WIB
PII urges Indonesian engineers to assist in earthquake-resistant building planning
The Indonesian Engineers Association (PII) is calling on engineers nationwide to support residents and local governments in designing earthquake-resistant buildings following the recent earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. PII emphasises the need to strengthen seismic engineering research, update building regulations, and tighten construction permits to reduce casualties from building collapses. President Prabowo has also responded to the disaster, dispatching 50,000 aid packages and deploying relevant ministries and state-owned enterprises to the affected areas.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:38 WIB
US Warship Loses Power for Four Days in South China Sea: What Happened?
The USS Benfold, a guided-missile destroyer, suffered a complete loss of electrical power for four days in July while operating in the South China Sea. The incident, caused by a generator technical failure, left the crew without galley services, toilets, air conditioning, and clean water until the vessel was towed to Philippine waters. The US Navy is conducting a thorough investigation into the cause.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:38 WIB
KitaBesti: STIK Respati's Digitalisation to Support Stunting Prevention in Cikunir Village
A digital platform called KitaBesti has been introduced in Cikunir Village, Tasikmalaya, to support family-based stunting prevention. Developed by STIK Respati through a community empowerment programme, the web and Android platform enables posyandu cadres and families to access nutrition education, record measurements and monitor toddler growth. The initiative involves local health authorities and village government, with plans to hand over full management to posyandu cadres for sustainability.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:37 WIB
Yaqut Fights Back, Questions Why Fuad Hasan's Name Disappears from End of Indictment
Former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas is challenging corruption charges over the 2023-2024 hajj quota, arguing the indictment contains legal flaws. His legal team questions why Fuad Hasan Masyhur's name is omitted from the final section despite being mentioned earlier, and disputes the allegation that Yaqut received US$271,000. The case involves alleged state losses of Rp622.09 billion.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:37 WIB
Pratikno urges NTT regional governments to form local task force to accelerate earthquake response
Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture Pratikno has recommended that regional governments in East Nusa Tenggara immediately establish a disaster management task force to improve coordination for survivors of the 7.7 magnitude earthquake. The central government will continue to support local authorities throughout the emergency response period. The earthquake has claimed 68 lives and injured 213 people across seven regencies.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:36 WIB
ICDX: Domestic sentiment towards rupiah relatively positive ahead of BI Board of Governors Meeting
ICDX assesses that domestic sentiment towards the rupiah is relatively positive despite markets awaiting the outcome of Bank Indonesia's Board of Governors Meeting on 18-19 August 2026. The BI-Rate is expected to remain at 5.75 per cent, while the central bank is also encouraging increased lending through banking liquidity relaxation. A weakening US dollar, driven by slowing American economic data, is providing additional support for the rupiah.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:36 WIB
81st Independence Day Celebrations Enliven East Jakarta's BKT Area, Residents Queue for Free SME Food
The government held Independence Day celebrations across 40 densely populated areas in Jakarta, including along the East Flood Canal in Malaka Sari, Duren Sawit. Residents queued for free food from local SMEs and took advantage of free health check-ups. Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi said the expanded events reflect the government's desire to make independence celebrations more inclusive and closer to the people.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:35 WIB
List of 10 Ministries/Agencies with the Largest Budget Allocations in the 2027 Draft State Budget
The Indonesian government has proposed a 2027 state budget with spending of Rp4,097.2 trillion and a deficit of 2.40% of GDP, reflecting an expansive but measured fiscal stance. Revenue is projected at Rp3,426.0 trillion, with tax receipts contributing Rp2,908 trillion. The budget prioritises eight national priority programmes, including food sovereignty, energy independence, education, health, downstreaming, and poverty reduction.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:34 WIB
No Application Needed: 2026 PBB-P2 Automatically Receives 5% Discount
The DKI Jakarta provincial government is offering a 5% discount on the 2026 Rural and Urban Land and Building Tax (PBB-P2) for payments made between 1 August and 30 September 2026. The discount is applied automatically without the need for taxpayers to submit an application. The incentive aims to ease the tax burden on residents while supporting regional revenue optimisation.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:34 WIB
IHSG Strengthens Today on Domestic and Global Sentiment
The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) opened higher on Tuesday, buoyed by positive domestic sentiment following President Prabowo Subianto's state address and global monetary policy dynamics. Analysts note the index could extend gains if it holds above key psychological levels, though correction risks remain. Market attention this week focuses on Bank Indonesia's policy meeting and the release of FOMC minutes.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:33 WIB
When is 12 Rabiul Awal 1448 H? Here is the 2026 Prophet Muhammad's Birthday Schedule
The Indonesian Ministry of Religious Affairs has confirmed that 12 Rabiul Awal 1448 H, marking the Prophet Muhammad's birthday, falls on Tuesday, 25 August 2026. The date has been designated as a national public holiday under the 2026 joint ministerial decree, with no additional collective leave. Citizens are advised that taking annual leave on Monday, 24 August 2026 would create a four-day long weekend.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:32 WIB
E Nusa Tenggara quake: Indonesia sets up 9 health ops centers
Indonesia's Health Ministry has established nine health operations centres in East Nusa Tenggara following a damaging earthquake, with a target of restoring all affected hospitals to full operational status within one week. Emergency medical teams, field hospitals, and relief supplies have been deployed to districts including Sikka and Ende, prioritising trauma surgery, maternal and paediatric care, and haemodialysis. The ministry is coordinating with the national disaster and search-and-rescue agencies to maintain staffing and stabilise regional healthcare networks.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:31 WIB
Economist: Mineral exchange forms price mechanism through market trust
The planned Mineral and Strategic Commodities Exchange could shift Indonesia from a price taker to a price maker by building market depth and credibility. Celios economist Bhima Yudhistira stressed that transparency, traceability and sustainability standards are essential for the exchange to support downstream processing and gain global market trust. President Prabowo Subianto has targeted the exchange to begin operating on 1 January 2027.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:31 WIB
Ministry of Industry strengthens textile industry competitiveness to win global competition
Indonesia's textile and textile products (TPT) industry remains a strategic sector, employing over 3.8 million workers and recording exports of approximately USD4.85 billion in the first half of 2026. Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita highlighted new investment and business expansion despite pressures facing some companies. The government is pursuing various policies including investment incentives, restructuring programmes, and trade safeguard measures to strengthen the industry's foundations.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:30 WIB
Deaf Community in Cianjur Learns Barista Skills and Coffee Shop Business Tips
A two-day training programme in Cianjur, West Java, equipped 25 deaf participants with barista skills and entrepreneurial knowledge to support the development of a deaf-run café. Organised by Universitas Mercu Buana's community service team, the initiative aimed to strengthen economic independence through creative economy training. Sessions covered visual branding, coffee-making techniques, and fundamental business concepts for café ventures.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:30 WIB
Trade Ministry Praises Shopee for Implementing Fee Transparency to Support MSMEs
Indonesia's Trade Minister Budi Santoso has commended Shopee Indonesia for introducing a 'My Programme Management' feature that aligns with Trade Ministry Regulation No. 19 of 2026 on fee transparency. The ministry has urged other e-commerce platforms to replicate the dashboard, which gives sellers clearer visibility of optional promotional programmes. The feature forms part of a broader Local Product Acceleration Programme aimed at strengthening the competitiveness of domestic products.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:30 WIB
Earth's Rotation Changed Completely Due to Giant Dam in China
NASA scientists have found that the massive Three Gorges Dam in China has slightly altered the Earth's rotation. The dam's reservoir holds 40 cubic kilometres of water, shifting mass distribution and lengthening the day by 0.06 microseconds. The findings echo earlier observations that the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami also affected the planet's rotation.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:28 WIB
Grenade Found by Scavenger in Bekasi Still Active
Police in Bekasi, West Java, have confirmed that a grenade discovered by a scavenger in Tambun Selatan on Monday was still active. The device, believed to be of British manufacture, was found in a rusty but complete condition with its safety pin and lever intact. Bomb disposal officers have evacuated the grenade to the Gegana headquarters for safe disposal.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:28 WIB
Minister: 81st Independence Day momentum to strengthen human resources and job opportunities
Manpower Minister Yassierli has called for the 81st anniversary of Indonesian independence to serve as a catalyst for improving workforce skills and expanding employment access. He highlighted programmes such as the National Vocational Training, National Internship, Manpower Polytechnic and KarirHub as key vehicles for boosting competitiveness. The minister stressed that competent human resources are essential for industrialisation, downstreaming and economic self-reliance.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:28 WIB
Bank Indonesia Reveals Indonesia's External Debt Rose 4.4 Percent in Q2 2026 to US$453.4 Billion
Bank Indonesia reported that Indonesia's external debt position reached US$453.4 billion in the second quarter of 2026, up 4.4 percent year-on-year. The increase was driven by higher public sector external debt, particularly government and central bank borrowing, while private external debt contracted. The central bank emphasised that the external debt structure remains healthy, with a debt-to-GDP ratio of 30.6 percent and long-term debt accounting for 82.1 percent of the total.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:27 WIB
Anak Krakatau Volcano Erupts 19 Times on 17 August 2026
Mount Anak Krakatau in the Sunda Strait erupted 19 times on Monday, 17 August 2026, with volcanic ash reaching up to 400 metres above the summit. Seismic activity continued into Tuesday morning, including harmonic tremors and continuous tremor events. The PVMBG has warned residents, tourists, and fishermen to stay outside a 3-kilometre radius from the volcano.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:27 WIB
Asset forfeiture bill targeted for passage by December 2026: DPR RI
Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission III is targeting passage of the asset forfeiture bill by December 2026, with Chairman Habiburokhman citing the need for extensive public consultation due to the bill's novel legal framework. The legislation is a 2026 priority aimed at strengthening the fight against corruption, and lawmakers have rejected claims that the House opposes the measure.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:26 WIB
Antam Gold Price Today 18 August 2026: Rises to Rp2,695,000
The price of Antam gold rose by Rp18,000 to Rp2,695,000 per gram on Tuesday, 18 August 2026. The buyback price also increased to Rp2,555,000 per gram. Prices remain volatile and are subject to global market conditions and currency fluctuations.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:25 WIB
Oil Prices Touch US$91 as US-Iran War Threat Returns
Global oil prices extended their rally on Tuesday, with Brent crude reaching US$91.21 per barrel as geopolitical risk premiums rose following the expiry of a 60-day US-Iran ceasefire. Tehran has signalled a shift to a fully offensive military posture while President Trump has ruled out extending the truce, prompting markets to price in potential supply disruptions from the Middle East.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:25 WIB
Elephant Population in Bengkulu Under Threat, Only 25-30 Remain
The elephant population in Bengkulu has dwindled to an estimated 25-30 individuals, according to the provincial Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA). Habitat loss driven by deforestation and conversion of forest into oil palm plantations is cited as the primary cause. Conservation groups warn that the Seblat landscape population is at a critical point and faces local extinction without urgent intervention.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:24 WIB
Febrie Denies Pre-Trial Motion Aims to Obscure Legal Process
Former Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes, Febrie Adriansyah, has rejected suggestions that his pre-trial motion at the South Jakarta District Court is an attempt to derail ongoing legal proceedings at the Attorney General's Office. His legal team argues the motion is a lawful right to test the validity of his suspect designation and related procedural actions. The case involves alleged money laundering linked to the discovery of 74 kilograms of gold and Rp543 billion in cash at a residence in Sentul.