Archive: 18 August 2026
Showing 1,401-1,450 of 1,549 articles
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 08:58 WIB
Mataram City Government prepares logistical aid and medical team for NTT
The Mataram City Government in West Nusa Tenggara is preparing logistical aid, material support, and a medical team for victims of the 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck East Nusa Tenggara. The city will collaborate with NTT community associations and student groups based in Mataram to distribute the assistance. Officials noted that the challenging geography of NTT requires extra care in mapping and delivering aid.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 08:58 WIB
McDonald's Indonesia Relies on Local Raw Materials for Chicken Supply
McDonald's Indonesia is strengthening its business localisation strategy by using domestic raw materials and managing its supply chain to maintain operational efficiency. Chicken-based products contribute more than 50% of the company's protein category sales, making supply management a critical part of operations. The company maintains integrated quality assurance from farms to restaurants, with daily deliveries required due to the short shelf life of fresh chicken.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 08:58 WIB
XCMG Accelerates Heavy Equipment Deliveries for Infrastructure and Mining Projects Across Multiple Countries
Chinese heavy machinery manufacturer XCMG is ramping up deliveries of construction and mining equipment to Angola, Southeast Asia, South America, and Mozambique. The shipments include record single orders for road-building machinery in Angola and crawler cranes in Southeast Asia. The company is also introducing fully electric mining excavators in Mozambique as part of its push into greener mining solutions.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 08:57 WIB
Kushner: Hamas disarmament in Gaza could begin within 30 days
US Special Envoy Jared Kushner has indicated that progress on disarming Hamas and other groups in the Gaza Strip could be visible within 30 days, with tunnel closures expected within 60 to 90 days. His remarks follow a four-hour meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, during which he urged Israel to support the US-proposed ceasefire plan. The ceasefire, brokered by Egypt, Qatar, the US and Turkey, took effect in October 2025 under the first phase of President Donald Trump's peace plan.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 08:57 WIB
81st Indonesian Independence Day Ceremony Held at Serasan Cross-Border Post, Carrying Spirit to Boost Exports
Indonesia's 81st Independence Day ceremony at the Serasan Cross-Border Post in Natuna highlighted the government's push to turn border posts into export gateways. The event underscored plans to flood neighbouring countries with domestic commodities and strengthen economic development in frontier regions.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 08:55 WIB
Telkomsat Supports Smooth Broadcast of Indonesia's 81st Independence Day Commemoration
Telkomsat, together with Telkom Indonesia, provided satellite infrastructure and broadcast services for Indonesia's 81st Independence Day celebrations at the State Palace. The company deployed three Satellite News Gathering units and transponder capacity from the Merah Putih Satellite to support live broadcasts of key national events. Telkomsat's involvement underscores its role in strengthening national communications and supporting Indonesia's digital sovereignty.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 08:55 WIB
Today's Stock Recommendations: PGEO, PACK, and EXCL
The Jakarta Composite Index closed up 1.59% on Friday, driven by gains in healthcare stocks, though foreign investors remained net sellers. Corporate actions from Siloam International Hospitals, Sumi Indo Kabel, and Batavia Prosperindo Internasional featured prominently, alongside Mega Capital Sekuritas' daily stock recommendations.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 08:54 WIB
The Significant Role of Pesantren, Before and After Independence
As Indonesia marks 81 years of independence, the article highlights the enduring contribution of pesantren (Islamic boarding schools) to the nation's development. The author argues that pesantren have historically produced fighters, scholars, and statesmen, and continue to serve as a moral fortress for the country. He calls for greater state support, including budget allocations, and urges the government to defend pesantren against defamation.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 08:53 WIB
The Role of Aviation Medicine Specialists in Prabowo's 'Air Ambulance' Proposal
President Prabowo Subianto's plan to introduce air ambulances and 'flying doctors' addresses Indonesia's geographical healthcare challenges, but its success hinges on incorporating aviation medicine expertise. The article argues that transporting patients by air involves complex physiological risks that require specialist knowledge to manage safely. It distinguishes between 'flying doctors' who provide care in remote areas and aviation medicine specialists who design the systems and protocols for safe aeromedical evacuation.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 08:53 WIB
The Importance of Aviation Medicine Specialists in Implementing President Prabowo's Air Ambulance Programme
President Prabowo Subianto's proposal to introduce air ambulances and 'flying doctors' addresses Indonesia's geographical challenges in healthcare access, but its success hinges on proper implementation. The article argues that aviation medicine specialists are essential to ensure patient safety during air evacuation, as flying patients involves unique physiological risks. Without this expertise, the programme risks harming rather than helping patients.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 08:53 WIB
UN Secretary-General Urges US and Iran to Resume Peace Negotiations Immediately
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called on the United States and Iran to return to the negotiating table following the expiry of a 60-day deadline set by President Donald Trump. Guterres also urged both sides to exercise restraint and avoid further military escalation. Tensions have risen sharply since July, with both countries exchanging attacks and accusing each other of violating a ceasefire agreement.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 08:52 WIB
Merah Putih Village Cooperatives: Big capital alone is not enough
The Merah Putih Village Cooperatives programme requires more than just government funding to succeed. The author argues that cooperatives must become living economic engines driven by active member participation as producers, consumers, and promoters. A pilot project testing the Snowball Business Model is proposed to measure whether this approach can generate sustainable economic activity in villages.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 08:52 WIB
Kushner and Netanyahu agree next steps in Gaza ceasefire
US Special Envoy Jared Kushner and Israeli leader Benjamin Netanyahu have agreed on further steps in the Gaza ceasefire plan, including the disarmament of Hamas before reconstruction begins. The two sides also agreed to form working groups on disarmament, demilitarisation and public health in Gaza. The meeting lasted around four hours, with Netanyahu reportedly viewing implementation as problematic due to Israel's upcoming elections in late October.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 08:50 WIB
Latest Report from 7 Regencies Affected by Flores Earthquake, NTT
The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) reports that no residents remain missing following the magnitude 7.7 earthquake that struck Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, though search and rescue teams remain on standby across seven affected regencies. The disaster has claimed 68 lives and injured 213 people, prompting the government to deploy field hospitals and food aid. Authorities remain optimistic about managing the aftermath, with temporary and permanent housing plans already under way.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 08:48 WIB
FIFA Executive Kevin Lamour Sacked After Opposing Gianni Infantino
FIFA's Chief Operating Officer Kevin Lamour has been dismissed after publicly opposing President Gianni Infantino's controversial plan to sell a stake in the World Cup's commercial rights. Lamour had criticised Infantino's leadership, accusing him of controlling the federation for personal gain. His sacking comes despite the plan being scrapped following widespread opposition, and it heightens political tensions ahead of next year's FIFA presidential election.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 08:47 WIB
Despite Work Flexibility Advisory, South Jakarta Traffic Remains Congested This Morning
The government issued a circular encouraging work flexibility on 18 August 2026 to allow citizens to commemorate Independence Day, but traffic in South Jakarta remained heavily congested during the morning rush hour. Key bottlenecks included Jalan Pasar Minggu, Jalan Gatot Subroto, and Jalan Rasuna Said, with roadworks and ride-hailing pick-up points contributing to the gridlock. The advisory allows flexibility while requiring essential public services to continue operating optimally.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 08:45 WIB
Purbaya Reveals Indonesia's Disaster Funds: Always on Standby at Rp5 Trillion
Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has confirmed that the government maintains a standby disaster fund of around Rp5 trillion, with an additional Rp500 billion held by the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB). He stressed that funding will not be an obstacle to emergency response, and that disbursement procedures are designed to be fast and responsive. Purbaya also expressed hope that the 81st Independence Day anniversary will mark the start of Indonesia's economic revival, targeting 6% growth next year.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 08:44 WIB
81 Years of Indonesian Independence, HMI Merauke Hopes Justice in Papua Becomes the True Face of Indonesia
The HMI Merauke branch has called for Indonesia's 81st independence anniversary to be marked by tangible justice and equitable development in Papua. Chairman Irwan emphasised that independence must be felt through public services, education, and economic empowerment, not just ceremonial flag-raising. He urged the government to treat Papuan communities as partners in development rather than mere recipients of programmes.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 08:42 WIB
Trump Threatens to Bombard Oman If It Blocks Strait of Hormuz Deal
US President Donald Trump has threatened to bombard Oman if it obstructs a deal with Iran concerning the Strait of Hormuz. Trump also reiterated his intention to declare the strategic waterway as US territory after defeating Iran. Iranian officials have insisted the strait will not reopen while Washington continues its naval blockade and regional intervention.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 08:40 WIB
Reassessing Indonesia-China Economic and Trade Cooperation
The article examines the current state of Indonesia-China economic relations amid debates over industrial policy, mineral resource management, and investment climate. It argues that while some Chinese companies face operational pressures, this does not signal a fundamental shift in bilateral cooperation. The piece contends that Indonesia's downstreaming policy and openness to foreign investment are complementary, not contradictory, and that long-term investors require predictable policy changes rather than static regulations.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 08:39 WIB
Gold export benchmark price rises amid increasing global demand
Indonesia's Ministry of Trade has raised the export benchmark price (HPE) and reference price (HR) for gold for the second period of August 2026, citing stronger global demand for the precious metal. The increase is attributed to lower global interest rates, a weaker US dollar, and falling international bond yields, which have prompted investors to shift liquidity into gold as a store of value. The new HPE is set at US$131,777.67 per kilogram, up 0.65 percent from the previous period.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 08:39 WIB
Abbasid Traces in Tapanuli: Discovery of Dirham Coins and Srivijaya's Correspondence with Caliph Muawiyah
Archaeological discoveries in North Sumatra, including Abbasid dirham coins at the Bongal site, are challenging the mainstream narrative that Islam only entered the Indonesian archipelago in the 12th or 13th century. Classical Arabic sources record diplomatic correspondence between the Maharaja of Srivijaya and Umayyad and Abbasid caliphs as early as the 7th century. The findings suggest sustained cultural and commercial contact between Nusantara and the Islamic heartlands from the earliest Hijri centuries.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 08:38 WIB
UN Secretary-General Guterres urges Iran and US to return to negotiating table
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called on the United States and Iran to resume negotiations towards a peaceful and sustainable resolution of their ongoing conflict. The appeal follows the expiry of a 60-day negotiation period set by President Donald Trump under the Iran Agreement signed at Versailles on 18 June. Guterres also urged both sides to lower their rhetoric and avoid renewed military action.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 08:37 WIB
Independence Day: PLBN Entikong Strengthens Border's Role as Indonesia's Showcase
The Entikong Cross-Border Post in West Kalimantan hosted Indonesia's 81st Independence Day ceremony, with House Commission II Chairman Muhammad Rifqinizamy Karsayuda serving as ceremony inspector. He emphasised that border areas must serve as friendly gateways and the nation's showcase to international visitors. The event brought together Indonesian and Malaysian officials, indigenous communities, and students to reinforce nationalism at the frontier.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 08:35 WIB
What Is the Indonesian Credit Card? Its Functions and How to Use It
Bank Indonesia and the Indonesian Payment System Association have launched the Indonesian Credit Card for retail customers as a domestic deferred payment alternative. The card is initially issued in digital form and can be used as a funding source for QRIS transactions. Seven major banks are participating as first movers, with further expansion planned for online and physical card payments.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 08:35 WIB
Still Valid! Discount on Fuel Purchases at Pertamina Petrol Stations, Here's How
PT Pertamina Patra Niaga is offering a Rp450 per litre discount on Pertamax Turbo, Pertamax, and Pertamina Dex fuels through the MyPertamina app on 17-18 August 2026. The promotion is limited to the first 81,000 customers and forms part of the company's Independence Day appreciation programme. Pertamina is also offering special Independence Day merchandise redeemable with MyPertamina points until 31 August 2026.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 08:32 WIB
Earthquake refugees in NTT join Independence Day competitions
Children displaced by an earthquake in Sikka Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, took part in sack races and drawing competitions to mark Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. The activities at the Gelora Samador Maumere evacuation site were intended to lift the spirits of children traumatised by the disaster. The earthquake struck their homes on the morning of Saturday, 15 August 2026.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 08:30 WIB
West Java Corrections Office Proposes Amnesty for 1,454 Prisoners
The West Java Regional Office of the Directorate General of Corrections has submitted amnesty proposals for 1,454 prisoners to the president, with around 1,100 falling under the national amnesty scheme. The remaining cases involve humanitarian amnesty for prisoners with prolonged illness or advanced age. Separately, 20,500 prisoners in West Java received general remissions, including 346 who were released immediately.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 08:30 WIB
Red and White Barongsai: Chinese tradition enlivens Indonesia's 81st Independence Day
A barongsai (lion dance) performance in red and white colours featured in Jakarta's 'Harmoni Nusantara' celebrations ahead of Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. The Kong Ha Hong group said the performance was a form of cultural participation in the independence commemoration, showcasing barongsai alongside diverse Indonesian traditions. The event highlighted how the Chinese-Indonesian art form has evolved into a sport and performance art that can coexist with other local cultures.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 08:29 WIB
Pigai: Papuans May Only Demand Justice, Not Independence
Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai has stated that Papuans are permitted to demand welfare, justice and basic rights as Indonesian citizens, but may not pursue independence from the Republic of Indonesia. Speaking during a working visit to Nabire, he encouraged evidence-based advocacy and called for more legal defenders to support local communities in conflict areas. Pigai also highlighted the need to bring law enforcement institutions closer to conflict-affected regions.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 08:28 WIB
Iranian President Sends Condolences over NTT Earthquake, Offers Aid
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has conveyed his condolences to President Prabowo Subianto following the M 7.7 earthquake that struck East Nusa Tenggara. Tehran has offered to send humanitarian and medical assistance to the affected areas. The disaster has so far claimed 68 lives and injured 213 people.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 08:25 WIB
Requirements and How to Apply for Indonesia Credit Card, Bank Indonesia Explains
Bank Indonesia has outlined the requirements and application process for the Indonesia Credit Card (KKI) retail segment, available for both conventional and sharia services. Applicants must be at least 21 years old or married, have a minimum monthly income of Rp3 million after obligations, and apply through one of the designated issuing payment service providers. The KKI is positioned as an efficient domestic deferred payment instrument integrated with the national payment infrastructure, including QRIS.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 08:19 WIB
Unusual Flag-Raising Ceremonies Mark Indonesia's 81st Independence Day: From Peatland Fire Sites to Lakes
Indonesians across the archipelago marked the nation's 81st Independence Day on Monday, 17 August 2026, with flag-raising ceremonies held in extraordinary locations. Joint personnel raised the Red and White flag amid active peatland and forest fire suppression efforts in Riau, while other communities unfurled a giant flag on the surface of Lake Situ Gintung in South Tangerang and underwater off Nusa Lembongan. The events underscored a message that true independence includes the right to breathe clean air free from haze.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 08:18 WIB
Government Ensures All Trans-Flores Roads Functional Again After NTT Earthquake
The Ministry of Public Works has confirmed that all nine national road sections damaged by the 7.7 magnitude earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara have been restored to functional status. Minister Dody Hanggodo stated that the Trans-Flores route from Labuan Bajo to Ende and Maumere is now passable, along with the Ruteng–Reo–Kedindi section. The ministry has mobilised heavy equipment and personnel to clear landslides and repair road damage as part of the recovery effort.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 08:18 WIB
Japan completes 22nd round of Fukushima nuclear plant wastewater discharge
Japan has completed the 22nd round of treated radioactive wastewater discharge from the damaged Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant, releasing 7,888 tonnes into the sea. The latest discharge, which began on 30 July, contained approximately 1.3 trillion becquerels of radioactive tritium. Since the controversial programme began in August 2023, cumulative discharges have reached around 173,000 tonnes despite international concerns and opposition.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 08:18 WIB
Japan completes 22nd round of nuclear-contaminated wastewater discharge
Japan has completed the 22nd round of treated radioactive wastewater release from the damaged Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant, discharging 7,888 tonnes into the sea. The latest release, which began on 30 July, brings the cumulative volume discharged since August 2023 to approximately 173,000 tonnes. The practice continues despite ongoing concerns and opposition from the international community.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 08:17 WIB
Human Rights Minister Pigai: Papuans May Demand Anything Except Independence
Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai has stated that Papuans are free to demand welfare, justice and their rights, but not independence from Indonesia. Speaking in Nabire, he encouraged lawful advocacy and evidence-based complaints, while calling for stronger legal institutions and civil society support in conflict areas.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 08:17 WIB
Asian Markets Mixed, Kospi Surges 2%
Asian stock markets traded mixed on Tuesday as investors weighed escalating tensions between the United States and Iran. South Korea's Kospi jumped 2%, while Japan's Nikkei 225 fell 0.9% and Australia's S&P/ASX 200 edged lower. Rising oil prices and a spike in long-dated US Treasury yields added to market uncertainty.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 08:15 WIB
Official Price Drop: Latest LPG 5.5 kg and 12 kg Prices Effective 18 August 2026
PT Pertamina Patra Niaga has reduced the prices of its non-subsidised Bright Gas LPG products, effective 15 August 2026. The 12 kg cylinder price fell by Rp2,000 to Rp218,000, while the 5.5 kg cylinder dropped by Rp1,000 to Rp102,000 for Java. A promotional discount programme is also running from 15 to 23 August 2026.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 08:14 WIB
Highlighting MBG Poisoning Cases, PDIP's Hasto: Controls Not Working Because of Rent-Seekers
PDIP Secretary-General Hasto Kristiyanto has criticised the repeated food poisoning incidents under the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme in North Sumatra, attributing them to failed government oversight and rent-seeking. He urged a total revision of the programme's management and proposed a participatory model involving local communities and MSMEs, citing successful examples from PDIP-led regions.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 08:13 WIB
Health Ministry activates 9 HEOCs to ensure post-earthquake health response in NTT
Indonesia's Ministry of Health has activated nine Health Emergency Operation Centres to coordinate the health response following the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. The ministry has deployed crisis management teams, emergency medical teams, field hospitals and medical supplies to affected districts. The priority is restoring essential services such as trauma surgery, maternal and child care, and haemodialysis within one to two weeks.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 08:11 WIB
Death Toll from NTT Earthquake Continues to Rise, Residents Gripped by Panic
The death toll from the 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, has risen to 68, with 213 injured and thousands displaced. Many survivors in Nagekeo are sheltering under makeshift tarpaulin tents without government assistance, while frequent aftershocks continue to cause panic.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 08:11 WIB
BMKG Warns of High Waves up to 4 Metres in the Indian Ocean
Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has issued an early warning for high waves of up to 4 metres across several Indonesian waters from 18 to 21 August 2026. The agency has urged fishermen, ferry operators and barge crews to remain vigilant, as the conditions could threaten shipping safety. Coastal communities in affected areas have also been advised to stay alert.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 08:10 WIB
Indonesia's Credit Card: Initial Digital Format, Used via QRIS
Bank Indonesia has launched the retail segment of the Kartu Kredit Indonesia (KKI), a domestically processed credit card initially available in digital form and usable through the QRIS ecosystem. Seven major banks and Bank Syariah Indonesia have been appointed as initial issuers. The central bank says the scheme will boost payment system efficiency and strengthen data sovereignty.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 08:07 WIB
Extraordinary General Meetings on 18 August: GGRP, HRME and VINS
Three Indonesian listed companies are holding extraordinary general meetings of shareholders (RUPSLB) on 18 August 2026 to seek approval for adjustments to the Indonesian Standard Industrial Classification (KBLI). The companies are PT Gunung Raja Paksi Tbk (GGRP), PT Menteng Heritage Realty Tbk (HRME), and PT Victoria Insurance Tbk (VINS).
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 08:06 WIB
Optimism Amidst the Storm
As Indonesia marks 81 years of independence, Investortrust reflects on the nation's economic resilience and the ambitious target of becoming a developed country by 2045. The article argues that achieving a GDP of nearly US$10 trillion requires a leap in growth to around 8% annually, driven by demographic dividends, resource downstreaming, and structural reform. It calls for consistent leadership and collaboration across government, business, and academia to realise this vision.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 08:05 WIB
Herman Deru Serves as Ceremony Inspector for 17th Time at Indonesia's Independence Day Commemoration
South Sumatra Governor Herman Deru has served as inspector of ceremonies at Indonesia's Independence Day commemoration for the 17th time, spanning his tenure as regent and governor. He used the occasion to urge the younger generation to uphold the spirit of independence through character, hard work, knowledge, unity, and competitiveness. The ceremony also highlighted cultural diversity, with officials wearing traditional South Sumatran attire.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 08:05 WIB
Trump Launches Trade War Against Strategic US Partner, 50% Tariff Looms
The United States is set to impose a 50% tariff on nearly US$20 billion worth of Canadian imports, invoking a rarely used Depression-era trade law. Canadian officials warn the move could trigger mass layoffs and derail negotiations over the USMCA free trade agreement. Business leaders say the tariffs would make many Canadian products economically uncompetitive in the US market almost overnight.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 08:04 WIB
Pretrial Hearing for Former Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah Held Today
A pretrial hearing for former Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes (Jampidsus) Febrie Adriansyah is being held at the South Jakarta District Court today. His legal team is challenging the legality of his suspect designation, searches, and other coercive measures, arguing they were conducted without proper procedure. The hearing will also examine the construction of the predicate offence in the money laundering case against him.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 08:04 WIB
South Sulawesi Social Agency: Sekolah Rakyat students begin to show their potential
Students at Sekolah Rakyat in South Sulawesi have begun demonstrating their talents and abilities after about a year in the programme, according to the provincial Social Agency. The agency highlighted skills in arts, innovation and foreign languages, and said the initiative aims to narrow the education quality gap between children from underprivileged families and those from better-off households.