Archive: 18 August 2026
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Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 05:55 WIB
Iranian President Offers Aid for NTT Earthquake
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has expressed condolences to Indonesia following the devastating earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) and offered humanitarian assistance. In a message to President Prabowo Subianto, he affirmed Iran's readiness to send humanitarian and medical aid despite his country facing attacks from the United States. He expressed hope for the swift recovery of stability in the affected areas.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 05:51 WIB
Israeli Minister Calls for Killing 30 to 40 People in Gaza Every Night
Israel's far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has called for Israeli forces to kill 30 to 40 people in Gaza each night, saying attacks should not be limited to those posing an active danger. His remarks, made during a podcast with a former Israeli hostage, are the latest in a series of extreme statements from the minister. Ben-Gvir also said he opposes the current ceasefire and urged a resumption of targeted killings beyond active threat categories.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 05:42 WIB
Competent Workers Key to Indonesia's Industrialisation
Manpower Minister Yassierli has emphasised that a competent workforce is essential for Indonesia to strengthen industrialisation and achieve economic self-reliance. Speaking at the 81st Independence Day ceremony, he outlined four priorities including vocational training, adaptive labour markets, inclusive workplaces, and harmonious industrial relations. The minister stressed that downstreaming and industrial sovereignty require matching skills development with the needs of digitalisation, AI, automation, and the energy transition.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 05:40 WIB
Independence Harmony at SCBD Showcases Indonesian Culture
Artha Graha Peduli celebrated Indonesia's 81st Independence Day with a 'Harmoni Kemerdekaan' event in SCBD, focusing on cultural heritage, traditional cuisine, and local wisdom. The event highlighted jamu as a cultural asset and featured performances such as Balinese Kecak dance and Sape music from Kalimantan. Around 60 fostered MSMEs participated, aiming to preserve cultural heritage while boosting local economic activity.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 05:32 WIB
Investment Risks in Indonesia Amid Rising Government Targets
Indonesia has raised its 2027 investment realisation target to Rp 2,322 trillion, a 13.8% increase from 2026, aligning with economic growth ambitions of 5.8%–6.5%. However, economists warn that slowing mineral downstreaming growth and weakening consumer demand could hinder the achievement of this target. The government plans to strengthen licensing certainty, accelerate construction, and resolve field obstacles to attract investment.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 05:31 WIB
West Manggarai Regency Distributes 36 Tonnes of Rice Following NTT Earthquake
The West Manggarai Regency administration in East Nusa Tenggara has begun distributing 36 tonnes of rice to 12 affected sub-districts as part of emergency response efforts following the Flores earthquake. The distribution, involving at least 40 official vehicles, aims to ensure food aid reaches residents in hard-to-access areas. The regent has pledged continued monitoring and phased assistance based on field assessments.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 05:30 WIB
Deadly Virus Rages: 2,000 Dead and 100 Cases in 24 Hours
The Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo has become the deadliest in the country's history, with 2,325 deaths and nearly 5,000 confirmed cases. The World Health Organization warns the outbreak is on track to surpass the 2014-2016 West African epidemic as the largest ever recorded. No approved vaccine or treatment exists for the rare Bundibugyo strain responsible for the surge.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 05:29 WIB
Independence Day Ceremony at Border Gate: Serasan Becomes Indonesia's Export Access to Neighbouring Countries
Indonesia's 81st Independence Day ceremony was held at the Serasan Cross-Border Post in Natuna, Kepulauan Riau, highlighting the strategic role of border areas in national sovereignty and economic development. BNPP Secretary Makhruzi Rahman read the President's message, which emphasised optimising border posts as export gateways to flood neighbouring countries with domestic commodities. The government also stressed the need for downstreaming strategies to create new supply chains linking production centres to border regions.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 05:25 WIB
NTT Earthquake Update: 68 Dead and Thousands of Homes Damaged
The death toll from the magnitude 7.7 earthquake in Nusa Tenggara Timur has risen to 68, with 213 injured and thousands of buildings damaged across seven regencies. Aftershock activity remains high, with 1,576 tremors recorded, though authorities expect conditions to stabilise within two to three weeks. Emergency response efforts are progressing, with electricity restored to 99.4% of affected areas and field hospitals deployed to support medical services.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 05:24 WIB
West Java Police Announce Crackdown on Begal While Maintaining Humanistic Traffic Control
The West Java Regional Police have deployed thousands of officers to crime and congestion hotspots across the province to enhance public safety. Police spokespersons say the preventive measures have reduced traffic violations and accidents, while the provincial police chief has ordered the Bandung police to eradicate begal street robberies and vehicle theft. The public is urged to cooperate with officers and prioritise road safety.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 04:36 WIB
Education as the Path of Islamisation in the Archipelago
The article argues that while trade opened the door for Islam's arrival in the Indonesian archipelago, it was education that allowed the religion to take root and flourish. The author contends that understanding Islamisation requires focusing on the transmission of knowledge, not just commercial encounters. An eighth-century request from a Srivijaya ruler for a teacher of Islamic law is highlighted as early evidence of this intellectual dimension.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 04:29 WIB
Parigi Moutong residents hold 81st Independence Day ceremony in protected forest
Residents of Parigi Moutong Regency, Central Sulawesi, marked Indonesia's 81st Independence Day with a ceremony held inside a protected forest area. The event was intended to convey a message about freeing the environment from deforestation. Organisers stressed that independence celebrations need not be confined to formal settings and can also take place in open natural spaces.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 04:23 WIB
Netanyahu's Likud Party Places New York Mayor Alongside Iranian Leader on Campaign Billboard
Benjamin Netanyahu's Likud party has launched a controversial campaign billboard in Tel Aviv comparing New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani with Iran's Supreme Leader and other regional adversaries. The advert comes as Netanyahu enters campaign mode ahead of October elections, following heightened tensions over Mamdani's criticism of Israel's Gaza operations. The move underscores the Israeli leader's strategy of framing domestic political challenges within a broader narrative of external threats.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 04:20 WIB
ITB Expert Highlights Vital Role of Trees and Green Spaces as Natural Infrastructure in the Bandung Basin
An urban planning expert from ITB has emphasised the critical function of trees and green spaces as natural infrastructure in the increasingly dense Greater Bandung Basin. Professor Ridwan Sutriadi warned that the loss of vegetation to concrete surfaces is reducing the area's capacity to absorb water and mitigate heat, increasing the risk of urban heat islands and flooding. He stressed that preserving trees and green areas is essential for maintaining the ecological resilience of the entire interconnected Bandung Basin.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 04:05 WIB
Xi Jinping Offers Condolences for NTT Earthquake Victims
Chinese President Xi Jinping has expressed his condolences following a powerful earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara that killed at least 68 people. He expressed confidence that Indonesia under President Prabowo Subianto will recover quickly. The National Disaster Mitigation Agency reported no remaining missing persons, while field hospitals have been deployed to accelerate medical treatment.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 04:04 WIB
US Supreme Court Rejects Trump Appeal in E. Jean Carroll Defamation Case
The US Supreme Court has declined to rehear Donald Trump's appeal against a $5 million civil judgment in the E. Jean Carroll sexual abuse and defamation case. The decision makes the jury's verdict final, though Trump's legal team is still pursuing a separate appeal over an $83.3 million award. Carroll's lawyer welcomed the ruling, stating the case can no longer be challenged in any court.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 04:00 WIB
Iraqi Kurdistan PM Accuses Iran of Drone Attack on His Office, Tehran Responds
Masrour Barzani, Prime Minister of Iraq's Kurdistan Regional Government, has accused Iran of launching a drone attack on his private office and the residence of the head of the Parastin intelligence agency. Tehran has strongly denied the allegation, with Iranian officials suggesting the incident may have been a false flag operation. No casualties were reported and no group has claimed responsibility.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 04:00 WIB
Gedung Sate Grounds Now Named Pasanggrahan Pancarasa, KDM Reveals Its Meaning
West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has officially named the renovated grounds of Gedung Sate, now merged with Gasibu Square, as Pasanggrahan Pancarasa. The name carries a philosophical meaning related to the five human senses and is intended as a public green open space. Dedi also highlighted long-standing environmental problems in Bandung, including waste that had blocked a water channel for 32 years.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 03:53 WIB
Preserving NU's Purity, Safeguarding Indonesia's Independence
As Indonesia marks 81 years of independence and Nahdlatul Ulama enters its second century, the article argues that both the nation and the organisation face a defining moment. It calls for a deeper understanding of independence beyond sovereignty, emphasising freedom from poverty, injustice, and corruption. The piece urges Indonesia to maintain direction amid global fragmentation and to build a state trusted by its people.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 03:52 WIB
Trump Claims Communication with Kim Jong Un, Promises to Reduce Military Drills in South Korea
US President Donald Trump has indicated that he and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un have recently been in communication, a day after announcing plans to scale back joint military exercises with South Korea. Trump cited his good relationship with Kim and a lack of South Korean support on Iran-related issues as reasons for the decision. The move has drawn criticism that he is prioritising an adversary over a long-standing ally, though Trump insists his diplomatic approach has made the world safer.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 03:50 WIB
Drone Show Enlivens Independence Night for Indonesia's 81st Anniversary at Bundaran HI Jakarta
A spectacular drone show illuminated the skies above Bundaran HI in Jakarta on Monday night as part of the Malam Merdeka celebrations for Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. The display narrated the nation's journey from the proclamation of independence to its vision for a sovereign, just and prosperous Indonesia by 2045. The event also featured a decorated vehicle carnival showcasing government programmes.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 03:49 WIB
Japanese Students Join Cracker-Eating Contest in Serang to Celebrate Indonesian Independence Day
Twenty Japanese students and volunteers joined local residents in Kampung Suarna, Serang Regency, to celebrate Indonesia's 81st Independence Day through traditional games and cultural exchange. The event was part of a broader social service programme that included bridge construction and cultural activities in Batukuwung Village. Organisers described the celebration as a space for togetherness and cross-cultural exchange between Indonesian and Japanese communities.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 03:48 WIB
Netanyahu's Absolute Condition: Israel Will Not Withdraw Gaza Troops Before Hamas Is Disarmed
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has told US envoy Jared Kushner that Israel will not withdraw its forces from Gaza or allow reconstruction to begin until Hamas is fully disarmed. The two sides agreed to appoint a US general to oversee the dismantling of Hamas weaponry as a first step towards demilitarisation. Hamas, however, continues to reject unilateral disarmament without an end to Israeli attacks and a troop withdrawal.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 03:43 WIB
Trump Calls Logistics Shortages on USS Abraham Lincoln 'Fake News'
President Donald Trump has dismissed reports of supply shortages and low morale aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln as 'fake news'. The denial follows a CNN report citing sailors and family members describing periodic food scarcity, hygiene supply shortages, and water distribution problems. The carrier has been deployed for over 250 days since leaving San Diego in November, supporting US operations in the Middle East conflict with Iran.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 03:09 WIB
Man in Purwakarta Tortures Own Child Because His Migrant Worker Wife Had Not Sent Money
A man in Purwakarta, West Java, has been arrested for allegedly torturing his own child because his wife, who works abroad as a migrant worker, had not sent money. The abuse, which occurred in February 2025, was captured in a viral video showing the man throwing the child and kicking them. Police say the child is now traumatised, refusing to attend school and living in fear.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 03:09 WIB
On Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, 80,000 West Java Residents Still Without Electricity
West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has apologised for the fact that around 80,000 residents in the province still lack access to electricity, calling it an irony on the nation's 81st Independence Day. He noted that when he took office in 2025, approximately 500,000 people were without power, and he has set a target to resolve the remaining cases by 2027. The governor highlighted the paradox that West Java is a major energy hub with geothermal and hydroelectric plants, yet many people living near these facilities remain without electricity.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 02:30 WIB
Matcha Ube Latte Trending and Claimed Healthy, Nutritionist: Don't Be Fooled!
A clinical nutritionist has cautioned the public against assuming that trendy ube-based drinks and desserts are automatically healthy simply because they contain natural ingredients. While whole ube is rich in fibre and antioxidants, processed versions often contain high levels of sugar, sweetened condensed milk, creamer and fat, which significantly increase their calorie content. The expert advises moderation and warns against using such treats as meal replacements.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 02:19 WIB
81st Indonesian Independence Day Celebrated in Algeria with Traditional Costume Fashion Show
The Indonesian Embassy in Algiers marked the 81st anniversary of Indonesia's independence with a flag-raising ceremony attended by staff and Indonesian nationals. Ambassador Yusron Bahauddin Ambary emphasised the enduring spirit of patriotism and national unity among Indonesians living abroad. Festivities included traditional games and a children's fashion show featuring Indonesian regional attire.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 02:16 WIB
Percepat Izin, Target Investasi 2027 Naik 13,8% jadi Rp2.322 T
The Indonesian government is accelerating investment licensing through the OSS system, with 24 ministries and agencies now having access for verification and monitoring. An upgraded OSS 2.0 using AI, big data, and blockchain is being prepared to improve accuracy and transparency, while 575 regional spatial plans are already connected. The Investment Ministry is also running the KLIK programme to allow parallel construction and permitting in 62 industrial estates, and is finalising derivative regulations under Government Regulation No. 28 of 2025 to support the 2027 investment target of Rp2,322 trillion.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 02:12 WIB
Batam Investment Absorbs 40,943 Workers as Gift for Indonesia's 81st Independence Day
Investment growth in Batam, Riau Islands, absorbed 40,943 workers in the first half of 2026, a 32.16 percent increase from the same period last year. Realised investment reached Rp29.89 trillion, up 27.31 percent year-on-year, with local officials describing the job creation as a special gift for Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. The city government and BP Batam pledged to maintain the investment climate to ensure economic benefits are felt directly by the community.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 02:04 WIB
ITB Warns of Aftershocks, Flores Back-Arc Thrust Fault Still Has Segments That Have Not Produced Earthquakes
Professor Irwan Meilano of ITB has warned that the magnitude 7.7 earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara on 15 August 2026 occurred on the Flores back-arc thrust fault, and that aftershocks remain a significant risk. He noted that academic studies for the national earthquake map indicate some segments of the fault have not yet ruptured. The region has a history of significant seismic activity, including a magnitude 6.6 earthquake in 2009 and the 2018 Lombok earthquake sequence.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 01:45 WIB
Putin Congratulates Prabowo on Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, Calls Indonesia a Friend
Russian President Vladimir Putin has sent a congratulatory message to Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto on the occasion of Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. Putin described Indonesia as a friend and highlighted the strong bilateral relationship between Moscow and Jakarta. He expressed confidence that continued cooperation would serve the interests of both nations and contribute to regional and global stability.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 01:34 WIB
Intermedia Capital (MDIA) Shares Surge 318% Before IDX Suspension, Management Speaks Out
The Indonesia Stock Exchange has suspended trading in PT Intermedia Capital Tbk (MDIA) after its share price surged nearly 318% in a month. Management has attributed the movement to market sentiment and investor expectations rather than short-term operational performance, while noting a significant narrowing of net losses in the first quarter of 2026.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 01:30 WIB
Denpasar Prayer Times for Tuesday, 18 August 2026: From Dawn to Night
The Ministry of Religious Affairs has released the official prayer schedule for Denpasar and surrounding areas for Tuesday, 18 August 2026. The schedule includes the five obligatory daily prayers, providing essential guidance for the Muslim community. The announcement also includes the Arabic recitations and meanings for the intentions of each prayer.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 01:20 WIB
National Police Chief Hands Out Dolls During Independence Night Carnival
National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo joined the 81st Indonesian Independence Day carnival at the Hotel Indonesia roundabout in Central Jakarta, distributing dolls to the public from a decorated float. He wore traditional Kabasaran headgear from Minahasa, North Sulawesi, as part of the celebrations. The carnival formed part of Jakarta's independence anniversary festivities, with ministry and agency floats showcasing priority programmes rather than competing for official prizes.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 01:15 WIB
Drone show narrating Indonesia's journey colours the sky at Bundaran HI
A drone show depicting Indonesia's journey to independence and its aspirations for the future illuminated the sky above Bundaran HI in Jakarta as part of the 81st Independence Day celebrations. The display opened with a 'Pray For NTT' message, calling for solidarity with regions in mourning, before narrating the nation's struggle, unity, and hopes for Indonesia Emas 2045. Spectators praised the show for its educational value and festive atmosphere.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 01:11 WIB
Celebrating Independence Day, Tria Dipa Hospital Strengthens Health Services with CT Scan and Cathlab
Tria Dipa Hospital has launched new CT Scan and cardiac catheterisation laboratory facilities to mark Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. The hospital says the investment supports the country's health sovereignty and aims to improve diagnostic and cardiovascular care for the public.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 01:08 WIB
Seven babies born at Cut Nyak Dhien Meulaboh Hospital on Indonesia's 81st Independence Day
Seven babies were born safely at Cut Nyak Dhien Regional General Hospital in West Aceh on the 81st anniversary of Indonesian independence. Hospital management confirmed all mothers and infants are in good health and expressed hopes the children will grow into a generation that serves the nation.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 01:04 WIB
KDM Criticises Bureaucracy for Perpetuating Feudal Culture in West Java Provincial Government
West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has criticised the provincial civil service for perpetuating a feudal culture that prioritises ceremony over public service. Speaking after the 81st Independence Day ceremony, he said officials spend budgets on meetings and expect deference during visits while communities continue to suffer from a lack of basic services such as electricity, education and healthcare.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 01:00 WIB
Nusron Wahid Overhauls BPN Services: Land Affairs Must Now Have Time Certainty
Minister of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/Head of the National Land Agency (ATR/BPN) Nusron Wahid has announced a transformation of land services to guarantee time certainty for the public. The new approach requires every application submitted to land offices to have a clear timeline for completion. The reform aims to prevent public frustration and improve the quality of land administration across Indonesia.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 00:53 WIB
BNPB accelerates aid distribution for NTT earthquake emergency response
Indonesia's National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) is expediting humanitarian aid deliveries to earthquake-affected areas in East Nusa Tenggara via air and sea routes. Coordination with the Ministry of Defence has enabled multiple Hercules flights carrying tens of thousands of kilograms of supplies. The operation involves military aircraft and naval vessels to reach affected communities across the province.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 00:45 WIB
Palace thanks thousands of citizens for enthusiastically attending independence ceremony
Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi expressed gratitude on behalf of the President and government to thousands of citizens who attended the 81st Indonesian Independence Day ceremony at Merdeka Palace. Many participants travelled from distant regions and arrived as early as 3 a.m., reflecting strong public enthusiasm. The day featured morning and evening ceremonies followed by cultural performances and a traditional feast.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 00:40 WIB
Thousands of Buildings Damaged by NTT Earthquake, Most in Ngada Regency
The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has recorded thousands of damaged buildings following the earthquake that struck East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), with Ngada Regency reporting the highest number at 1,796 homes. The provincial government has declared a 14-day emergency response status, while the death toll has risen to 68 with 213 injured. Aftershocks continue, with 1,576 recorded so far and conditions expected to stabilise within two to three weeks.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 00:38 WIB
BMKG forecasts rain across several regions on Tuesday
Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has forecast light to moderate rainfall across various parts of the country on Tuesday. The agency also warned of smoky conditions in Pontianak and thick cloud cover in several eastern cities. Residents are advised to monitor weather updates and adjust their activities accordingly.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 00:38 WIB
Donggi-Senoro LNG Nears 500 Cargoes, Ready to Boost Domestic Supply
PT Donggi-Senoro LNG has produced nearly 500 cargoes of liquefied natural gas since commencing operations in 2015, with around 15 of this year's 41 cargoes allocated to the domestic market. The company says it is prepared to expand domestic supply by up to 100 MMSCFD if gas pricing proves viable, in line with government policy prioritising national needs.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 00:34 WIB
Scavenger in Bekasi Finds Grenade, Polda Metro Bomb Squad Intervenes
A scavenger in Tambun Selatan, Bekasi Regency, discovered an active hand grenade, prompting a response from the Polda Metro Jaya bomb disposal unit. The grenade, believed to be of British manufacture and heavily rusted, was safely evacuated for disposal. Police have urged the public to report any similar suspicious objects via the 110 call centre.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 00:23 WIB
Building Trust in the Architectural Finishing Materials Market
RB SHERA, a joint venture between RoyalBoard and SHERA Thailand, has won the Best Choice Brand Architectural Finishing Solutions award at The People's Choice 2026 by Golden Property Awards just two years after entering Indonesia. The award, based on national polling, focus group discussions, and market surveys, validates the company's strategy of adapting proven expertise to local needs. Its silicate board-based finishing solutions address growing demand for performance, aesthetics, flexibility, and sustainability in construction.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 00:16 WIB
Bali Remains Safe For Travelers As Indonesia Mourns Deaths In 7.7 Earthquake In Flores
The 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck the Flores Islands in East Nusa Tenggara has killed at least 43 people across five regencies, with search and rescue operations ongoing amid fears the toll could rise. Transport infrastructure including five airports and two ports was affected, though flights between Bali and Flores remain operational and tsunami warnings have been lifted. Authorities are advising tourists that Bali remains safe for travel while urging caution for visits to affected parts of East Nusa Tenggara.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 00:02 WIB
Govt to enfranchise its citizens economically: Minister
Indonesia's Minister of Cooperatives Ferry Juliantono has reaffirmed the government's commitment to achieving economic and social independence for all citizens under President Prabowo Subianto's leadership. Speaking at the 81st Independence Day ceremony, he highlighted the Ministry's role in promoting economic equality through initiatives such as the Red-White Village Cooperative programme. The scheme aims to strengthen village-level economic frameworks by improving access to finance, essential goods, and local business development.