Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 19 August 2026

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Bali Gym Owner Goes Viral After Ejecting Three Israeli Men

A gym owner in Ubud, Bali, has gone viral after ejecting three Israeli nationals from his premises, stating that his business does not serve Israelis or IDF personnel. The owner, identified as Samir, later clarified that one of the men had been rude to his staff and that the refusal was based on nationality and military affiliation, not religion.

Welcoming 2045, UT Rector hopes AI will not kill students' critical reasoning

Universitas Terbuka Rector Prof Ali Muktiyanto has urged students to use artificial intelligence wisely as a tool to support critical thinking rather than as a shortcut for academic dishonesty. Speaking at a university event in South Tangerang, he emphasised that the generation preparing for Indonesia Emas 2045 must combine technological adaptability with strong ethics and integrity. He warned that a nation is not destroyed by a lack of innovation but by a crisis of integrity.

Man in Bengkalis Named Suspect for Allegedly Burning One Hectare of Land

Police in Bengkalis have named a 79-year-old man as a suspect for allegedly setting fire to one hectare of sago plantation to clear new land. The fire spread to neighbouring plots amid hot, dry and windy conditions. The suspect faces charges under the Plantation Law and the Criminal Code.

Ghalibaf: US 'Extortion' of Iran Will Not Succeed — Stop Hoping

Iranian Parliament Speaker and chief negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has warned Washington that increased pressure will not extract additional concessions from Tehran. His remarks follow a breakdown of the 18 June ceasefire and subsequent exchanges of military strikes between the two countries. Ghalibaf dismissed the notion that US officials could produce a sudden solution to the escalating crisis.

Public Works Ministry initiates Clean Irrigation Movement for agricultural land

Indonesia's Ministry of Public Works has launched a nationwide Clean Irrigation Movement to safeguard water availability for farmland. The initiative, carried out across 38 river basin offices, aims to maintain irrigation infrastructure and support national food self-sufficiency amid dry seasons and climate change. Activities include clearing rubbish, weeds and sediment from irrigation channels, with one scheme in Central Java serving 18,740 hectares of farmland.

81st Indonesian Independence Day: Global Sevilla Encourages Young Generation to Think Freely

Global Sevilla School marked Indonesia's 81st Independence Day with a ceremony themed 'Sovereign, Just, and Prosperous Indonesia', linking the national motto to its educational philosophy. The school's leadership emphasised that true independence in education means fostering critical thinking, self-control, and responsible action among students. The event highlighted the institution's commitment to character education as an investment in Indonesia's future.

Defence Minister holds meeting on domestic industry aboard Hercules aircraft

Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin held a closed meeting aboard a C-130 Hercules to discuss the development of Indonesia's aerospace industry. The meeting followed the handover of a Hercules aircraft that had undergone major modernisation by state-linked firm GMF AeroAsia, marking the first such work completed outside Lockheed Martin facilities. The minister said the breakthrough shows domestic industry can stand on its own feet in modernising the C-130 and supporting national defence.

DPR pledges to improve teacher welfare after status reform

The House of Representatives has committed to improving teacher welfare once the government and parliament complete reforms to teachers' employment status. The plan includes converting part-time government contract teachers (PPPK) to full-time status and allowing full-time PPPK teachers to apply for civil servant positions starting in 2027. Lawmakers say welfare improvements will follow as fiscal conditions recover.

Tourist in Gunungkidul Falls Victim to 'Prank' Fried Grasshopper Jar Filled with Cardboard

A tourist in Gunungkidul, Yogyakarta, has gone viral on social media after discovering that a jar of fried grasshoppers purchased near a beach entrance was padded with cardboard to appear full. The local tourism office has confirmed it is investigating the incident and tracing the seller. Other local vendors have condemned the practice, saying it harms consumers and damages the reputation of the area's culinary tourism.

BI Records Bank Credit Growth of 13.58% in July 2026

Bank Indonesia reported that bank lending accelerated to 13.58% year-on-year in July 2026, up from 12.67% in June. The central bank attributed the growth to loose macroprudential policy and maintained liquidity, with base money expanding 18.3% annually.

UI Public Health Faculty student wins third best oral presentation at NSCE 2026

Widya Inayah, a Master of Epidemiology student at the University of Indonesia's Faculty of Public Health, has won third place for best oral presentation at the 13th National Scientific Conference on Epidemiology (NSCE) 2026. Her research examined individual and contextual factors associated with measles incidence in Jakarta from 2021 to 2025 using multilevel analysis. The findings highlight that measles risk is influenced not only by individual characteristics but also by environmental conditions such as immunisation coverage, population density, and settlement classification.

Breaking News! BI Rate Held at 5.75% in August 2026

Bank Indonesia has kept its benchmark interest rate at 5.75% following its August 2026 Board of Governors meeting, marking the second consecutive month of unchanged policy. The decision was widely anticipated, with all 14 institutions polled by CNBC Indonesia forecasting no change. The hold extends a pause after the central bank raised rates by a cumulative 100 basis points between May and June 2026.

Transfer of PPPK Teacher Status to Central Government Employees Awaits Technical Guidelines

The Medan city government has expressed readiness to follow the central government's policy on transferring the employment status of PPPK teachers to central government employees. Mayor Rico Tri Putra Waas stated that the city is awaiting official technical guidelines before implementation. The policy stems from an agreement between the government and the DPR following consideration of the national fiscal condition.

Survey: 91 percent of Chinese companies aim to penetrate ASEAN market

A survey by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) found that 91 percent of Chinese companies intend to expand their business footprint in ASEAN countries. Singapore, Vietnam, Thailand, and Malaysia were each selected by more than 40 percent of respondents as potential markets. The findings reflect the growing appeal of Belt and Road partner countries as key global markets for Chinese firms.

9 Countries with the Fastest-Rising Passport Rankings in the World

A new analysis of global passport indices shows that several countries achieved significant gains in passport strength between 2025 and 2026, driven by diplomacy, regional trade bloc participation, and unilateral visa-free policies. The United Arab Emirates leads the list, having climbed to fifth place globally, while countries such as Kosovo, India, and Saudi Arabia also recorded notable improvements.

Rupiah Strengthens to Rp17,855, BI Reveals Strategy to Maintain Stability Amid Global Turmoil

Bank Indonesia reported that the rupiah strengthened to Rp17,855 per US dollar on 18 August 2026, a 0.78 percent point-to-point gain from end-July. The central bank attributed the appreciation to its stabilisation policy response and announced expanded hedging incentives to attract foreign portfolio investment. BI expects the rupiah to remain stable despite persistent global uncertainty driven by Middle East conflict and rising commodity prices.

Why Arab and Persian Traders Became More Active in Spreading Islam in the Archipelago in the 12th Century

Arab and Persian Muslim traders, initially focused on commerce in the archipelago, began intensifying their efforts to spread Islam from the late 12th century onwards. This shift was driven by religious and political changes in the Middle East as well as the decline of Srivijaya's trade dominance, which prompted monopolistic policies that disrupted foreign merchants. The development laid the groundwork for stronger religio-cultural ties between the archipelago and the Middle East.

Strengthening Retail Ecosystem, Three Business Lines Interconnected

JOYSPARKS Group is integrating its STAR Department Store, Happy Harvest Supermarket, and the upcoming Lintas Bookstore into a single retail ecosystem. The company aims to enhance customer loyalty and adapt to shifting consumer behaviour through connected experiences, integrated loyalty programmes, and community engagement. Expansion plans include new locations across Greater Jakarta, Bandung, Bogor, and Makassar.

Minister: Ship safety evaluation must not stop at documents

Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi has stressed that ship safety assessments must go beyond administrative documents to examine the actual implementation of safety systems. The statement follows recent fires aboard KM Mutiara Sentosa II and KMP Putri Yasmin, which prompted deeper evaluations of fire protection, crew readiness, and emergency response. The ministry has ordered audits and may restrict operations if safety deficiencies are found.

Prabowo Seated Between Jokowi and Gibran at Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, Gerindra Responds

Gerindra Party spokesperson Bahtra Banong has played down the significance of President Prabowo Subianto sitting alongside former President Joko Widodo and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka during the 81st Independence Day ceremony. He emphasised that Prabowo maintains good communication with all former leaders, particularly Jokowi, under whom he once served as a minister. The seating arrangement at the State Palace has drawn public attention amid ongoing political dynamics.

Viral Naked Man Attacks Online Motorcycle Taxi Driver with Plywood in Lenteng Agung

Police in South Jakarta have arrested a man who went on a naked rampage and attacked an online motorcycle taxi driver with a piece of plywood on Jalan Raya Lenteng Agung. The suspect, identified only by the initial J, was reportedly under the influence of alcohol at the time of the incident. Authorities confirmed the man is not mentally ill and are still searching for the victim.

Police assert prevention of Febrie Adriansyah not arbitrary action

The Corruption Eradication Corps of the Indonesian National Police and other respondents have defended the travel ban imposed on former Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah, arguing it is a lawful procedural instrument rather than an arbitrary measure. They contend the prevention is justified under Article 141 of the Criminal Procedure Code and was requested in the interest of the investigation. Febrie has filed a pretrial motion challenging the legality of the travel ban and a search of his residence.

BNPB sends 165.9 tonnes of aid to residents affected by NTT earthquake

Indonesia's National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) has dispatched 165.97 tonnes of relief supplies to communities affected by the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. The aid, delivered via 12 air sorties, includes tents, blankets, food packages, Starlink internet units, water purifiers and emergency generators. Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian has also inspected affected areas to evaluate recovery needs and coordinate infrastructure repairs.

Dipowinatan Residents Hold Merti Golong Gilig, Free UMKM Snacks Distributed

Residents of Kampung Dipowinatan in Yogyakarta held their annual Merti Golong Gilig folk festival on Tuesday, celebrating the merger of three neighbourhood units into one community. The tradition, which dates back to 2015, features a procession carrying rolls of snacks produced by local micro, small and medium enterprises, followed by a Tali Sada ceremony and a communal feast. All food is provided free of charge through voluntary contributions from residents across the neighbourhood.

Anggito Abimanyu: Indonesia Tak Kekurangan Dana, tapi Investasi Produktif

Professor Anggito Abimanyu argues that Indonesia's economic challenge is not a lack of funds or institutions, but the need to connect them to channel financing into productive investment. Speaking at the Industrial Summit 2026, he stressed that financial stability must drive productive activity and that deepening capital markets is essential for long-term financing in infrastructure, energy, and industrial transformation. The forum also highlighted the importance of innovation and human resources for Indonesia's industrial competitiveness.

Bank Indonesia Reveals Household Consumption Still Needs a Boost

Bank Indonesia has stated that Indonesia's economic growth remains stable into the second quarter of 2026, but household consumption still requires further stimulus. The central bank noted that growth was supported by fiscal stimulus, which lifted government consumption and investment, while exports also need to be encouraged. BI remains confident that Indonesia's economy will grow between 4.9% and 5.7% in 2026.

Ministry of Agriculture Strengthens East Lombok Garlic Production with Rp55.6 Billion Support to Pursue Self-Sufficiency

The Ministry of Agriculture has allocated Rp55.65 billion to expand garlic cultivation in East Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara, as part of efforts to restore national self-sufficiency. Domestic production currently stands at around 39,000–40,000 tonnes against an annual requirement of approximately 600,000 tonnes, leaving import dependency at 90–95 percent. The initiative includes simultaneous planting across 17 provinces and is supported by the National Police and the House of Representatives.

Rupiah Exchange Rate Strengthens, BI Governor: Stable Going Forward!

Bank Indonesia's acting governor Destry Damayanti has attributed the recent strengthening of the rupiah to the central bank's stabilisation strategy. The currency appreciated 0.78% against the US dollar by 18 August 2026, and BI expects continued stability through the optimisation of its monetary instruments.

USS Abraham Lincoln at Sea for Over 200 Days, Crew Mental Health Raises Alarm

Concerns are mounting over the mental health of US military personnel aboard the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln as it nears the end of an extended deployment in the Middle East. The carrier has been at sea for more than 240 consecutive days, with over 200 days without a port call, prompting scrutiny from US lawmakers and families of the crew. US officials have acknowledged the challenges while downplaying reports of poor conditions on board.

Madurese Community Contributes to Jakarta's Economic Development, Says Pramono

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has praised the Madurese community for its role in supporting the capital's economy, which grew 5.52% last year, above the national average. He highlighted their contributions to education and small businesses, and pledged continued support through health and education programmes. The Ikatan Keluarga Madura (IKAMA) leadership affirmed its commitment to working with the provincial government on development and public order.

Mataram residents flock to four staple foods at cheap market ahead of Maulid

Hundreds of residents in Mataram, West Nusa Tenggara, have been rushing to buy four staple commodities at a government-run cheap market ahead of the Maulid Nabi celebration. Cooking oil, eggs, sugar and rice have been selling out within about an hour at each location. The programme aims to stabilise prices and ensure affordable access to basic foodstuffs.

Indonesian Navy foils smuggling of 75.7 tons of illegal tin

The Indonesian Navy has seized 75.7 tons of illegally mined tin sand across multiple operations in the Bangka Belitung Islands, preventing an estimated Rp76 billion in state losses. The smuggling attempt, allegedly bound for Malaysia, involved coordinated raids on storage sites, vehicles, and a rented house, with three suspects detained. The operation underscores ongoing efforts to combat illegal tin mining and its associated criminal activities in the region.

Pestani Rawit Groo Festival Boosts Chilli Productivity by up to 15%

PT Petrokimia Gresik's Pestani Rawit Groo Festival has increased bird's eye chilli productivity in East Java by 13-15% through balanced fertilisation and improved cultivation techniques. The programme involved 270 farmers across five regencies and forms part of efforts to strengthen national food security, given East Java contributes around 35% of national chilli production.

Pertamina Supports Boyolali Farmers to Recover During Dry Season

Pertamina has helped farmers in Sobokerto village, Boyolali, overcome dry-season water shortages through its Desa Energi Berdikari programme. The initiative has increased cultivable land from 20% to 90% and introduced solar power and livestock farming. Farmers report significant improvements in their livelihoods.

Batang Police: Death toll in pile-up rises to three

The number of fatalities from a multi-vehicle collision on the Batang-Semarang toll road has risen to three, all passengers of an ambulance. Police suspect the ambulance driver lost concentration, triggering a chain-reaction crash involving four vehicles. Two other victims sustained serious injuries.

PAM JAYA Donates Ambulance to Baduy Community for 81st Independence Day

Jakarta water utility PAM JAYA has donated an ambulance to the Baduy indigenous community as part of the 81st Indonesian Independence Day commemorations. The vehicle was handed over by the DKI Jakarta Provincial Government at City Hall and will be managed by a foundation to support the community's healthcare needs. PAM JAYA's president director said the donation reflects the company's commitment to expanding public service benefits beyond ceremonial activities.

Police and Attorney General's Office Ask Judge to Reject Pre-trial Motion of Former Jampidsus Febrie

The Indonesian National Police and the Attorney General's Office have jointly requested the South Jakarta District Court to dismiss a pre-trial motion filed by former Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes, Febrie Adriansyah. They argue that the motion concerns the substance of the case and falls outside the jurisdiction of a pre-trial hearing. Febrie is challenging his designation as a suspect in a money laundering case involving 74 kilograms of gold and Rp543 billion in cash found at his Sentul residence.

Social Assistance Budget Reaches Rp1,300 Trillion, Qodari Says Digital System Could Save Rp200 Trillion

The Indonesian government has identified potential efficiency savings of up to Rp200 trillion in social protection spending through the implementation of Digital Public Infrastructure and improved beneficiary data filtering. Head of the Government Communication Agency Muhammad Qodari said the current social protection budget stands at around Rp1,300 trillion, nearly 30 percent of the state budget. The savings are linked to reducing inclusion and exclusion errors in programmes such as the Family Hope Programme and Non-Cash Food Assistance.

Debt Rating Cut, Adhi Karya (ADHI) at Risk of Default?

Pefindo has downgraded state-owned construction firm Adhi Karya's rating from idBB to idB, marking the third cut in five months. Bondholders rejected the company's request to defer coupon payments, with the next payment due on 24 August 2026. The rating agency warns that failure to meet this obligation could constitute an actual default and trigger further downgrades.

Purbaya Monitors Manggarai Earthquake Disaster Site, Government Prepares Rp5 Trillion

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa visited Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, to inspect earthquake disaster response efforts and ensure aid distribution. The government has prepared Rp5 trillion in on-call funding through the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) for emergency response and recovery. Purbaya emphasised that financing will be adjusted according to needs, covering both the emergency phase and post-disaster recovery.

Dozens of children undergo cleft lip surgery at Ciracas Regional Hospital, East Jakarta

Twenty-one children have undergone cleft lip and palate surgery during a free social service event at Ciracas Regional Hospital in East Jakarta. The initiative, supported by the Indonesian Plastic Surgery Association and Smile Train Foundation, aims to boost the confidence of affected children. East Jakarta Mayor Munjirin expressed appreciation for the programme, noting that 31 children registered but only 21 passed the health screening.

Dedi Mulyadi Fulfils Promise, Construction of Underpass in Cimahi City Begins

Construction of the Gatot Subroto Underpass in Cimahi, West Java, has commenced, fulfilling a pledge made by West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi. Traffic diversions are now in effect around the clock, with alternative routes provided for private vehicles and separate arrangements for heavy vehicles. The project is expected to improve connectivity to the Baros and Leuwigajah toll access areas.

IIA strengthens global standards implementation to safeguard Indonesia's competitiveness

The Institute of Internal Auditors Indonesia is intensifying efforts to implement global internal audit standards in response to evolving business risks and artificial intelligence developments. Survey findings presented at the IIA Indonesia National Conference 2026 indicate that while audit execution capabilities are strong, only 40 percent of organisations have fully aligned their methodologies with the Global Internal Audit Standards. The institute emphasises that professional maturity should be measured by the quality and consistency of standard implementation rather than the number of standards created.

War Without End, BI Says Global Economic Prospects Remain Unclear

Bank Indonesia's board of governors has warned that the global economic outlook remains uncertain, citing ongoing conflict and commodity price volatility. The central bank expects inflation to remain elevated and anticipates a further rise in the US Federal Funds Rate in the fourth quarter.

Bareskrim Faces Obstacles in Repatriating Fugitive Ahmad Al Misry to Indonesia

Indonesia's Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim) is facing difficulties repatriating Syekh Ahmad Al Misry, a fugitive suspected of sexually abusing Islamic boarding school students, from Egypt. The main obstacles are his dual citizenship status and the absence of an extradition treaty between Indonesia and Egypt. Police are relying on Interpol channels to secure his return.

1,000-Day Savings, Lifetime Dividends: Indonesia's Future Depends on Maternal and Child Nutrition

Indonesia has reduced stunting prevalence from 37.2 percent in 2013 to 19.8 percent in 2024, but a critical gap remains in the 6–24 month window where stunting spikes sharply. The Tanoto Foundation and government partners are scaling up multi-stakeholder programmes to address poor complementary feeding, maternal malnutrition, and data-driven village planning. The article argues that sustained investment in the first 1,000 days of life is essential for the country's human capital development.

Bisnis-27 Index Opens Lower, ICBP, UNTR, TAPG Shares Still Advancing

The Bisnis-27 index opened 0.27% lower at 430.69 on Wednesday, with only five of its 27 constituents gaining ground. Consumer and mining-related stocks such as ICBP, UNTR, and TAPG led the advancers, while BRMS, INKP, and BUMI posted the steepest declines. Phintraco Sekuritas expects the broader IHSG to trade sideways between 6,400 and 6,500, supported by expectations that Bank Indonesia will hold its benchmark rate at 5.75%.

Police Search for Motorcyclist Victim Assaulted by Drunk Man in Lenteng Agung

Police in South Jakarta have detained a 23-year-old man who went viral for stripping naked and assaulting motorcyclists on Jalan Raya Lenteng Agung. The suspect, identified only as J, claimed he was heavily intoxicated and had no specific motive for the attacks. Authorities are now searching for at least one victim to obtain a formal statement.

Jakarta Literacy Teachers and Education Agency Strengthen Student Literacy and Creativity through Gebyar Merdeka

Guru Literasi Jakarta (GliterJak) and the DKI Jakarta Education Agency held Gebyar Merdeka to mark Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, combining literacy, creativity, and environmental awareness. The event featured student competitions, an interactive dialogue on waste management, and the inauguration of GliterJak administrators at the municipal level. Education Agency head Nahdiana emphasised that educational activities must produce lasting behavioural change rather than remain ceremonial.

Baznas Meets Basic Needs of NTT Earthquake Victims

The National Amil Zakat Agency (Baznas) has established a public kitchen in West Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, to ensure displaced residents receive adequate food following a recent earthquake. The initiative, run with local volunteers, is part of Baznas's broader humanitarian response to meet basic needs during the emergency period. Baznas has pledged to continue supporting affected communities through the recovery phase.

Harvesting spinach grown with cow manure fertiliser, Semarang's smart organic garden offers a new eco-friendly farming approach

A three-hectare educational agro-ecotourism site in Kandri Tourism Village, Semarang, is demonstrating how cow manure can be processed into organic fertiliser and biogas. The initiative, run by the Pokdarwis Tani Muda Mandiri group in collaboration with the Engineering Research Club of Semarang State University, aims to educate the public on producing safe, nutritious food while preserving the environment. It also seeks to promote self-reliant food security through sustainable farming practices.

Bahlil: Restrictions on Pertalite for Deciles 9 and 10 Still Under Review

The Indonesian government is still reviewing plans to restrict subsidised Pertalite fuel purchases for households in the top two income deciles. Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia said the mechanism has not been finalised and current rules remain in force. He stressed that wealthy citizens should not consume subsidies intended for those who genuinely need them.

Dutch government rejects US sanctions on ICC

The Netherlands has voiced its opposition to the latest US sanctions imposed on officials of the International Criminal Court in The Hague, reaffirming its full support for the tribunal. Dutch Foreign Minister Tom Berendsen said international courts must be able to carry out their mandates freely and invited ICC President Tomoko Akane for talks. The US sanctioned Akane and a senior ICC lawyer over the court's investigations involving officials from countries that do not recognise its jurisdiction.

Hasrul Hasan and Evri Rizqi Elected as Chair and Vice Chair of Central KPI

Muhammad Hasrul Hasan and Evri Rizqi Monarshi have been elected as Chair and Vice Chair of the Indonesian Broadcasting Commission (KPI) for the 2026-2029 period. The election was conducted through deliberation and consensus during the first plenary meeting of KPI members following the issuance of Presidential Decree No. 83/P of 2026. Hasrul stated that KPI will prioritise quality, healthy and competitive broadcasting, and will oversee the revision of the broadcasting law currently being discussed in the DPR.

Developing a Bio-Methanol Ecosystem from Upstream to Downstream for Domestic and Global Markets

Pertamina NRE has signed three strategic agreements to build an end-to-end bio-methanol value chain in Indonesia, covering production, domestic offtake, and international marine fuel marketing. The initiative will convert palm oil mill effluent into bio-methanol using CRecTech's catalyst technology, potentially cutting production costs by up to 50%. The move supports Indonesia's energy security and Net Zero Emission 2060 target while reducing reliance on methanol imports.

601 Ship Accidents Since Early 2026, House Commission V Chair: Maritime Transport Emergency

House of Representatives Commission V Chair Lasarus has declared a maritime transport emergency following data revealing 601 ship accidents between January and August 2026. The accidents resulted in 3,607 total victims, including 239 deaths and 203 missing persons. Lasarus criticised manifest discrepancies and urged Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi to address the issue to stop ships from becoming 'killing machines'.

Housewife Falls Victim to Hypnosis While Guarding Stall in South Tangerang, Gold Necklace Stolen

A woman in Ciputat, South Tangerang, was hypnotised by two men posing as mobile phone salesmen and unknowingly handed over her gold necklace. Police have inspected the scene and urged the victim to file a formal report. Footage of the theft has circulated on social media.

South Kalimantan urged to step up forest fire control

Deputy Food Affairs Minister Hanif Faisol Nurofiq has called for coordinated action to tackle forest and land fires in South Kalimantan amid persistent drought conditions. Following a strategic meeting in Banjarbaru, he joined emergency teams to extinguish a hotspot in Pengayuan, prioritising protection of residential areas and infrastructure. The provincial forestry agency pledged stronger cooperation with central government, security forces, businesses, and communities to intensify fire-control efforts.

Titiek Soeharto Appreciates Police-Agriculture Ministry Efforts to Accelerate Garlic Self-Sufficiency

House of Representatives Commission IV Chair Titiek Soeharto has praised the National Police and Ministry of Agriculture for their joint efforts to accelerate national garlic self-sufficiency. She noted that Indonesia achieved garlic self-sufficiency in 1994 but now imports around 90 percent of its needs. Titiek stressed that achieving self-sufficiency requires collaboration across institutions and cannot be the responsibility of the Agriculture Ministry and farmers alone.

UAD Students Secure P2MW 2026 Funding, Create Wayang-Themed Moodpatch

Students from Universitas Ahmad Dahlan have secured national funding through the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology's P2MW programme for their aromatherapy patch product. The Moodpatch combines aromatherapy with Yogyakarta's cultural heritage, featuring wayang character-themed variants paired with gamelan music. The team aims to help reduce stress among students and Generation Z while promoting local culture.

PNM Peduli Distributes Aid to Residents Affected by NTT Earthquake

PT Permodalan Nasional Madani (PNM) has distributed emergency aid worth Rp144 million to 1,347 beneficiaries across eight evacuation sites following a 7.7 magnitude earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. The state-owned enterprise deployed its RESPATI team to assess needs on the ground, focusing on vulnerable groups including infants and women. PNM has confirmed the safety of 792 employees and continues to monitor conditions for further recovery support.

Mount Bromo Tourism Reopens Thursday 20 August 2026 After Fire

Mount Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park will reopen to tourists on Thursday 20 August 2026 at 00.01 WIB after a 13-day effort to extinguish forest and land fires. The daily visitor quota remains capped at 2,752 people, with all four entrance gates resuming normal operations. Officials have urged visitors to remain vigilant against fire risks.

History of KRI Ki Hajar Dewantara, Once Involved in Operation Aru Jaya in East Timor

President Prabowo Subianto has formally proposed to the House of Representatives (DPR) the sale of the decommissioned warship KRI Ki Hajar Dewantara. The vessel, built in Yugoslavia and commissioned in 1981, served as both a light frigate and training ship, including participation in the 1992 Operation Aru Jaya in East Timor. The DPR will now deliberate on the proposed sale of the state asset, though no buyer has yet been identified.

Yogyakarta Special Region Government Distributes Aid for NTT Disaster Victims and NTT Students in Yogyakarta

The Yogyakarta Special Region (DIY) government has allocated Rp1 billion in emergency funds, medical supplies, and food assistance to support victims of the Flores earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT). The aid package also includes food support for NTT students studying in Yogyakarta and requests to universities for tuition relief. The initiative reflects Yogyakarta's tradition of solidarity with disaster-affected regions across Indonesia.

Manggar Reservoir Water Level Drops, Clean Water Supply at Risk

The Manggar Reservoir in Balikpapan, East Kalimantan, has seen its water volume fall from 16,000 to 12,000 cubic metres over the past month due to a lack of rainfall. The regional water company warns that the decline of around three centimetres per day could disrupt clean water supplies within three months if dry conditions persist.

Futures Market Begins to Grow, Bittime Emphasises Education and Risk Management

Crypto asset futures trading is gaining traction in Indonesia as investor numbers grow and digital asset instruments diversify. Bittime highlights the need for improved literacy, product understanding, and risk management to support healthy market development. The company is expanding educational efforts, including an event in Bali, to help traders navigate the distinct risks of derivatives.

Legal fortress for women (part 1)

Violence against women is framed not merely as an individual issue but as a matter of human rights and justice. The article highlights the role of Komnas Perempuan in documenting cases and collaborating with legal aid organisations, as well as the emergence of the Legal Aid Law driven by civil society coalitions. It also notes the pro bono obligations that apply across advocate organisations, though the rules remain varied.

Sumatran Elephant Calf Born on Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, BKSDA Calls It a Gift from Nature

A male Sumatran elephant calf was born at the Elephant Conservation Centre in South Sumatra on 17 August, coinciding with Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. The BKSDA South Sumatra described the birth as a meaningful gift for the conservation of protected wildlife in Indonesia. The calf, born to mother Lestari and father Gapula, is under intensive 24-hour monitoring by veterinary staff and mahouts.

Bali Gym Owner Goes Viral After Ejecting Three Israeli Nationals, Receives One-Star Review

A gym owner in Ubud, Bali, has gone viral after refusing service to three Israeli nationals, citing their alleged ties to the Israel Defense Forces and rude behaviour towards staff. The owner, Samir, defended his actions in a follow-up video, stating the decision was not religiously motivated but based on his policy of not serving IDF personnel or anyone disrespectful to his employees. Local police have said they will verify the incident.

Colombian President asks US to temporarily suspend import tariffs

Colombian President Abelardo De La Espriella has asked US Secretary of State Marco Rubio to temporarily suspend tariffs on Colombian products, describing their phone conversation as highly productive. The request comes as the United States continues to provide humanitarian and economic assistance following a devastating earthquake in Colombia on 10 August. Colombia's trade minister has been dispatched to Washington to lead negotiations on the tariff suspension.

NTB High Prosecutor's Office re-examines former BPD president director over Rp11 billion financing

The Nusa Tenggara Barat High Prosecutor's Office has again questioned Kukuh Rahardjo, former president director of the regional development bank, over alleged corruption in the provision of Rp11 billion in financing to PT Carsten Group Indonesia. The financing was linked to support for the MXGP 2023 international sporting event. Investigators are still coordinating with auditors to determine the state financial loss.

Bahlil confirms Pertalite restriction plan still under review

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has confirmed that plans to restrict subsidised Pertalite fuel for the wealthiest deciles remain under discussion, with current distribution rules unchanged. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa indicated the subsidy controls will be implemented gradually once Pertamina's systems are ready. The policy aims to ensure fuel subsidies reach their intended beneficiaries.

New ChatGPT Version Specifically for Children, Parents Must Know

OpenAI has launched ChatGPT for Teens, a version of its AI chatbot designed for users aged 13 to 17 with restrictions on high-risk topics such as self-harm, violence, and eating disorders. The new version includes educational tools, guided learning modes, homework reminders, quizzes, and visualisations, alongside parental controls like Quiet Hours and notifications for sensitive discussions. The launch comes amid growing scrutiny of digital platforms over their impact on children's mental health.

Indian Tourist Dies After Falling While Queuing for Check-in at Komodo Airport Labuan Bajo

An Indian tourist, Paresh Vashantrai Sheth, 69, died after falling while queuing for check-in at Komodo International Airport in Labuan Bajo, West Manggarai, East Nusa Tenggara. The cause of the fall remains unknown. Despite immediate medical assistance and resuscitation efforts, he was pronounced dead upon arrival at Siloam Hospital.

Febrie's Pre-trial: Police Say Criminal Procedure Code Does Not Require Examination of Suspect Candidate

The National Police's Corruption Eradication Corps (Kortas Tipikor) has argued in court that the Criminal Procedure Code (KUHAP) does not require a person to be examined as a suspect candidate before being named a suspect. The police stated that the determination of former Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah as a suspect was based on at least two valid pieces of evidence. The case involves alleged corruption and money laundering linked to ASABRI, PT Krakatau Steel, and a coal procurement project.

German Minister Visits Istiqlal and Cathedral, Impressed by Indonesian Tolerance

Germany's Federal Minister for Economic Cooperation and Development, Reem Alabali Radovan, visited the Istiqlal Mosque, the Tunnel of Friendship, and Jakarta Cathedral, expressing admiration for Indonesia's religious tolerance. She said the example could serve as a model for many places, including Germany. The visit was guided by Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar and Cardinal Ignatius Suharyo.

Indonesia's Geothermal Industry Marks 100 Years

Indonesia's geothermal sector has reached a century of operation, with the first well drilled at Kamojang in 1926 still producing steam. The government is accelerating development through new work areas, regulatory reforms, and investment targets, aiming to raise geothermal capacity by 5.2 GW by 2034.

Minister affirms sailing permits will not be issued if manifests are unvalidated

Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi has announced that sailing approval letters will no longer be issued unless passenger, vehicle and cargo manifests are fully validated. The policy follows a series of ferry incidents that exposed major discrepancies between recorded manifests and actual numbers on board. The ministry will move towards a single data system with real-time validation and stricter pre-departure inspections.

Pertamina accelerates Reo fuel terminal operations after NTT earthquake

Pertamina Patra Niaga is working to restore full operations at the Reo fuel terminal in Manggarai Regency following the 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck East Nusa Tenggara. The terminal is currently operating manually while repairs are made to its digital systems. Fuel supplies to Labuan Bajo's Komodo Airport have been temporarily diverted from Bima in West Nusa Tenggara.

Iranian Parliament Speaker Accuses US of Choking Tehran for Illegal Concessions

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammed Bagher Ghalibaf has accused the United States of attempting to 'choke' Tehran to extract concessions that were never part of any bilateral agreement. His remarks come two months after a memorandum of understanding brokered by Pakistan and Qatar stalled, raising concerns about energy market stability in the Strait of Hormuz.

M7.7 Flores Earthquake Triggers Massive Landslides Along Trans-Flores Route

A magnitude 7.7 earthquake that struck Flores on 15 August 2026 triggered extensive landslides along the strategic Ende–Nagekeo–Bajawa–Maumere corridor. Experts attribute the slope failures to a combination of weak volcanic geology, steep terrain, and road construction that reduced slope stability. The event highlights how seismic impacts on landslides depend not only on earthquake strength but also on local geological and morphological conditions.

Four-Year Flood Near Cipayung Landfill in Depok Recedes, Road Reopens to Residents

A road in Kampung Bulak Barat, Depok, that had been submerged for four years due to a blocked waterway from the Cipayung landfill has finally reopened after river normalisation works. Local residents expressed relief that the route connecting Cipayung and Pasir Putih sub-districts is passable again. The Depok mayor has apologised and announced plans for a new bridge and long-term waste-to-energy conversion.

Manpower Ministry highlights five key aspects of vocational ecosystem development

The Ministry of Manpower has outlined five essential elements for building a vocational education ecosystem aligned with labour market needs. These cover competence and character, technological adaptability, learning infrastructure, institutional governance, and graduate outcomes. The ministry stressed that success should be measured not merely by graduate numbers but by the tangible benefits graduates deliver to the workforce and society.

Chinese Robotics Giant Unitree Soars on Stock Market Debut, Is the US Losing Its Shine?

Unitree Robotics, the world's largest humanoid robot maker, saw its shares surge over 600% on its Shanghai stock market debut, marking a significant milestone for Beijing's robotics ambitions. The listing on the Star Market underscores China's strategic push to dominate the global robotics and AI sector amid intensifying competition with the United States. Analysts view the IPO as a potential benchmark for investor interest in the rapidly growing humanoid robot industry.

Iranian Parliament Speaker Visits Iraq to Discuss Regional Cooperation

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf arrived in Baghdad on Wednesday for an official visit aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and addressing key regional issues. He is scheduled to meet senior Iraqi officials, including the president, and will also travel to Karbala for a religious commemoration. Qalibaf emphasised the fundamental importance of Iran-Iraq relations for regional stability and spoke of an emerging 'new order' in the Middle East.

Independence, energy sovereignty, and the electricity switch

Indonesia's push for energy self-sufficiency is central to its national sovereignty agenda, with the government targeting 100 GW of solar power capacity within four years. Initial steps include identifying 28,000 hectares of land in Java and commencing construction of 17 GW of solar plants. The discussion has shifted from feasibility to ensuring the benefits reach communities and businesses.

Pramono Confirms Jakarta LPDP Programme to Proceed Next Year

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has confirmed that the Jakarta LPDP scholarship programme will go ahead in 2027, despite a request from the Jakarta Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) to postpone it and redirect the funds to repair damaged schools. Pramono said school repairs would instead be funded from the Building Floor Coefficient (KLB) scheme, with construction beginning next month. The Jakarta Education Agency has prepared a budget of Rp99.9 billion for the scholarship programme.

Pertamina NRE develops biogas-based bio-methanol ecosystem

Pertamina New & Renewable Energy has signed three strategic agreements to develop an end-to-end bio-methanol ecosystem in Indonesia, covering production, domestic offtake, and international marine fuel marketing. The initiative includes a pilot facility in North Sumatra using palm oil mill effluent biogas and a catalyst technology that could cut production costs by up to 50 per cent. The move aims to reduce Indonesia's reliance on methanol imports while positioning the country in the global low-carbon marine fuel market.

Mirae Asset Sees Demutualisation of IDX as Positive Signal

Mirae Asset Sekuritas views the demutualisation of the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) and the potential involvement of Danantara as a positive development. The firm expects Danantara to encourage more initial public offerings (IPOs) of state-owned enterprises and their subsidiaries. Danantara's management is considered professional and capable of selecting high-performing companies for listing.

BMKG outlines support measures following KMP Mutiara Sentosa II fire

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has detailed the support it provided before and after the fire aboard KMP Mutiara Sentosa II in the waters north of Sumenep, East Java. The agency said it had issued maritime weather forecasts prior to the incident and is now assisting search and rescue operations with ocean parameter analysis and drift simulations. BMKG is coordinating with relevant ministries and agencies to support the emergency response.

Foreign Investors Net Sell Rp371 Billion in First Session, Here Are the Stocks

Foreign investors recorded a net sell of Rp371.31 billion across all markets during the first trading session on Wednesday, as the Jakarta Composite Index fell 0.60% to 6,411.19. The decline was driven by a sharp correction in Bayan Resources shares following clarification of takeover rumours, while market participants also awaited Bank Indonesia's rate decision. PT Timah and Bank Central Asia were among the top net foreign buys, while Astra International led the sell-off.

Iran Refuses to Grant Additional Concessions to the US

Iran's Parliament Speaker and chief negotiator with the United States, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, has stated that Washington will not be able to force Tehran into making further concessions. His remarks come amid escalating tensions following the collapse of a ceasefire agreement and subsequent military exchanges. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz by Iran has raised concerns about wider regional conflict and disruption to global energy supplies.

Mount Bromo tourism to reopen Aug 20 after forest fires: Official

Mount Bromo will reopen to tourists on 20 August following the complete extinguishing of forest fires that forced its closure on 8 August. The decision follows a safety evaluation by the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park Office, with a daily visitor quota of 2,752 and strict rules against fire-risk activities. Officials expressed gratitude to the multiple agencies and volunteers involved in the 13-day fire response.

Minister Ara Forms Joint Team with Qatar to Realise Housing Investment Project in Kampung Bandan

Housing and Settlement Areas Minister Maruarar Sirait has announced the formation of a joint team involving Indonesian agencies and Qatari investor Al Qilaa International Group to advance a housing development in Kampung Bandan, Jakarta. The initiative is part of the government's programme to build three million homes, with an initial phase of 50,000 vertical housing units planned on land owned by state railway operator PT KAI. The project is intended to strengthen investment ties between Indonesia and Qatar while supporting national development goals.

Infographic: Casualty Data from the NTT Earthquake

An earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara has killed 70 people and injured 132, with over 40,000 displaced. The government has dispatched 65 tonnes of additional logistics, bringing the total aid to 253 tonnes. Search and rescue teams are focusing on medical recovery in hard-to-reach areas such as Lamba Leda District.

Batam Nightclub Drug Kingpin Basri Lewaimang Placed on National Police Wanted List

The Indonesian National Police's Criminal Investigation Agency has declared Basri Lewaimang, the alleged manager and drug kingpin behind the HH Club or Planet nightclub complex in Batam, a wanted fugitive. Authorities estimate that at least 40,000 ecstasy pills were distributed monthly through the venue, with volumes rising during peak visitor periods. Police are also tracing financial flows and have seized luxury vehicles, vessels, and numerous properties suspected of being linked to the narcotics business.

Medan city government awaits technical guidelines on transfer of PPPK teacher status

The Medan city administration is awaiting technical guidelines from the central government before implementing the transfer of employment status for teachers holding Government Employee with Work Agreement (PPPK) positions to central government employees. Mayor Rico Tri Putra Waas affirmed that his administration will comply with all central government policies, including the transfer, and will review the regulations once implemented. State Secretary Minister Prasetyo Hadi announced the policy following an agreement between the government and the House of Representatives, noting that part-time PPPK teachers will be made full-time and full-time PPPK teachers will have the opportunity to apply for civil servant positions in 2027.

Obesity treatment cannot be instant, requires medical-based approach

Medical experts warn that rapid weight loss methods such as extreme dieting and unverified slimming drugs can be harmful. They emphasise that obesity is a chronic disease requiring personalised, medically supervised treatment rather than quick fixes. The public is also urged to verify health products through the BPOM's 'Cek KLIK' method before purchase.

Four Deadly Ship Incidents Claim Lives, Transport Minister Points to Potential Sources of Disaster

Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi has revealed the government's evaluation of four recent ship accidents, stressing that complete documentation alone cannot guarantee safety. The ministry is now scrutinising the actual implementation of safety systems, including fire protection, crew readiness, and emergency response capabilities. Operators face additional audits, operational restrictions, or sailing bans if safety discrepancies are found.

Gerindra: Oil and Gas Bill Restores State Sovereignty over Oil and Gas

The Gerindra Party has welcomed the House of Representatives' decision to adopt the Oil and Gas Bill as a DPR initiative, describing it as a crucial step towards restoring state sovereignty over Indonesia's natural resources. The party argues that the 2001 Oil and Gas Law weakened Pertamina's role and contributed to a sharp decline in national oil lifting from 1.6 million barrels per day in 1997-1998 to around 600,000 bpd today. Gerindra hopes the new legislation will revive the sector and return Indonesia to OPEC membership and energy self-sufficiency.

Indonesian citizens in Cameroon: Independence Day a moment to ease longing for homeland

Indonesian citizens in Cameroon celebrated the 81st anniversary of Indonesian independence with traditional games and cuisine, with the Indonesian Embassy in Yaoundé also hosting a culinary safari to introduce Indonesian food to local communities. The ambassador called for prayers for earthquake victims in Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, while Cameroonian officials expressed hope for stronger people-to-people ties.

Indonesian Government Serious About Implementing Paris Agreement, Here's the Proof!

Indonesia's renewable energy mix has reached 17% in support of PLN's 2025-2034 Electricity Supply Business Plan, according to the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources. The government aims for renewables to account for 76% of new power capacity under the plan. Geothermal, hydropower and biodiesel are currently the largest contributors, while solar remains the smallest and is a priority for expansion.

Iranian Parliament Speaker Arrives in Baghdad to Discuss Regional Cooperation

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf has arrived in Baghdad leading a high-level delegation to discuss regional issues and bilateral relations. The visit, made at the invitation of his Iraqi counterpart, will focus on expanding cooperation in economic, political, cultural, social and security fields. Qalibaf described Iran-Iraq relations as historically inseparable and fundamental to the region's development.

Prosecutors Say LKPP Witness in Appeal Hearing Strengthens Nadiem Makarim's Conviction

Public prosecutors argue that testimony from a former LKPP official in the appeal hearing of Nadiem Anwar Makarim reinforces the original guilty verdict in the Chromebook procurement corruption case. The witness's account was consistent with evidence considered at the first-instance trial. Nadiem, a former education minister, was sentenced to 10 years in prison and ordered to pay Rp809.59 billion in restitution.

Indonesia Partners with Germany to Strengthen Research for Energy Transition

Indonesia and Germany are deepening cooperation on energy transition through a high-level event at IPB University, showcasing a solar-powered cold storage facility as a pilot project. The collaboration brings together government, academia, research institutions, and the private sector to advance renewable energy applications beyond the electricity sector. German Federal Minister Reem Alabali Radovan highlighted the mutual benefits of knowledge exchange, noting both countries face similar challenges in reducing fossil fuel dependence and accelerating grid development.

Government prepares goods delivery regulation focused on driver protection

The Indonesian government under President Prabowo Subianto is drafting a regulation to protect drivers in the growing digital goods delivery industry. The Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs will oversee tariffs for goods and food delivery, while the Ministry of Transportation will regulate passenger transport fares. The House of Representatives has finalised discussions on the presidential regulation, with harmonisation involving online transport operators and platform providers to follow before its issuance.

Ministry to Revamp Wastewater Treatment Plant and Trader Stalls at Bintaro Fish Market

The Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries has pledged to fund the completion of a wastewater treatment plant and the renovation of trader stalls at Bintaro Fish Market in Mataram, with work targeted for completion in 2026. The Mataram city government will act solely as the beneficiary, while additional improvements such as roof repairs remain contingent on remaining central budget allocations. The initiative follows a ministerial visit that highlighted the market's poor condition and inadequate waste management.

Reviewing NTT, Purbaya Guarantees Availability of Rp 5 Trillion Emergency Disaster Budget

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has confirmed that the government has prepared up to Rp 5 trillion in emergency funding to respond to disaster needs in East Nusa Tenggara following a 7.7 magnitude earthquake. The funds will be channelled through the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) as initial financing for disaster response. Purbaya also assured that budget disbursement to regional governments for post-disaster recovery will be monitored to ensure smooth delivery.

601 Ship Accidents Since Early 2026: 239 Dead, 203 Missing

Indonesia's National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas) has recorded 601 ship accidents between January and mid-August 2026, resulting in 239 deaths and 203 people missing. Of the 3,607 people affected, 3,165 were rescued alive, while 220 of the victims were foreign nationals. The incidents ranged from leaking vessels to medical evacuation missions.

UBTH Tasikmalaya PKM Team Helps Ciamis Snack SMEs Level Up

A community service team from Universitas Bakti Tunas Husada (UBTH) Tasikmalaya has launched a competitiveness programme for a local snack SME association in Ciomas Village, Ciamis Regency. The initiative, funded by the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology, focuses on product quality, legal certification, production modernisation and digital marketing. It aims to help three local brands overcome barriers such as lack of halal certification and reliance on traditional sales channels.

Government Reveals 45% of Social Assistance Misdirected, New Digital System to Be Built Soon

The Indonesian government has disclosed that 45 per cent of social assistance (bansos) suffers from inclusion error, meaning aid is received by people who should not qualify. To address this, the government is developing Parlinsos Digital, an integrated digital social protection system built on enhanced Digital Public Infrastructure. The system will allow self-registration, real-time verification, and public challenges to incorrect beneficiary data.

Governors Come and Go, the Bureaucracy Remains: Reading 15 Years of Jakarta from an Insider

A new book by a Jakarta civil servant offers an insider's account of 15 years of the capital's governance, spanning six governors and the city's transition away from being Indonesia's seat of government. The author, a former journalist, argues that the permanent bureaucracy—not the changing political leadership—is the true constant in Jakarta's administration. The book compiles hundreds of articles written in real time, providing documentary value on policy, structure, and institutional culture.

Sudden Afternoon Rain Hits Jakarta, Check BMKG Forecast Until Tonight

The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has issued a weather forecast for Jakarta indicating light to moderate rain across most areas this afternoon and evening. The agency also warned of increased rainfall intensity in several provinces and potential strong winds in parts of Indonesia over the coming days.

Bandung City Government Supports PEKA Programme, Encourages Workers' Heirs to Manage Compensation Productively

The Bandung city government has expressed support for the Economic Empowerment and Independence (PEKA) programme initiated by BPJS Ketenagakerjaan, which aims to help beneficiaries and heirs of deceased workers manage their social security compensation productively. The programme, launched simultaneously across 45 locations in Indonesia, seeks to shift recipients from a consumptive mindset to a productive one through skills training, business mentoring, and financial education. Manpower Minister Yassierli and BPJS Ketenagakerjaan President Director Saiful Hidayat both emphasised the importance of collaboration between government, financial institutions, and communities to build sustainable economic independence.

Video: Smuggling of 22 Kg Gold Bars - Belgium Forest Fire

Indonesian customs officials at Soekarno-Hatta Airport have uncovered an attempt to smuggle 22 kilograms of gold bars worth approximately Rp 60 billion. Two Chinese nationals were arrested as they prepared to fly to Hong Kong. The report also covers Belgium's largest forest fire in history, which has burned around 3,000 hectares in the High Fens region.

Polda Metro Dismantles Home-Based Synthetic Tobacco Industry in South Jakarta

Jakarta Metropolitan Police have uncovered a home-based synthetic tobacco operation in two locations in South Jakarta, arresting two suspects and seizing 487.38 grams of synthetic tobacco. The suspects allegedly produced the substance independently and distributed it through social media, targeting young consumers. Police are continuing investigations to uncover the wider narcotics distribution network.

Police Allege Febrie Concealed Assets from PT Asabri Corruption Case

Police have named former Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah a suspect, citing more than two pieces of evidence in a money laundering case linked to the handling of the PT Asabri and PT Asuransi Jiwasraya corruption matters. Investigators allege Febrie concealed the origins of his assets between 2020 and 2025. The case was formally escalated following a case review on 10 July 2026 at Polda Metro Jaya.

Borong Earthquake Survivors in East Nusa Tenggara Scavenge Scrap Iron from Rubble to Fund Communal Kitchens

Residents of East Manggarai Regency, mostly farm labourers too afraid to return to their fields amid continuing aftershocks, have turned to collecting scrap iron from collapsed buildings to survive. The proceeds are partly handed over to communal kitchen organisers to buy food while official aid remains delayed. Locals describe the scavenging as a grim but necessary lifeline, even as they plead for assistance to arrive so they can begin rebuilding their lives.

Internal Auditors Urged to Play Strategic Role Amid Business Dynamics

The IIA Indonesia National Conference 2026 in Surabaya called on internal auditors to move beyond compliance towards building stakeholder confidence. Survey findings presented at the event show only 40% of organisations have fully aligned their audit methodology with Global Internal Audit Standards, while 49% of boards regularly review their Quality Assurance and Improvement Program.

Officially in Force! SHM Title Transfer Now 10 Days and Land Measurement 12 Days

Indonesia's Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency (ATR/BPN) has officially implemented accelerated land services, effective 17 August 2026. The new Scheduled Measurement service sets a maximum seven-day waiting period for measurement and five days for file completion, while the Integrated Title Transfer service targets a maximum 10-day completion for title transfers. Minister Nusron Wahid described the reforms as a 'gift to the Indonesian people', aimed at providing certainty in public services.

Oona Insurance Reveals Business Trends and Urgency of Insurance Awareness Movement

Oona Insurance Indonesia's CEO Vincent C. Soegianto stressed the importance of building awareness for vehicle insurance protection at the Multifinance CEO Gathering 2026. The company has been collaborating with multifinance industry players and now offers protection for electric vehicles as well as conventional ones.

After earthquake, Pertamina ensures energy supply in NTT remains secure

State-owned energy firm Pertamina has confirmed that fuel supplies in East Nusa Tenggara remain stable following the recent earthquake, with the Labuan Bajo Fuel Terminal continuing to operate normally. The company's chief commissioner praised field teams for their rapid response after road access between Ruteng and Labuan Bajo was severed, preventing tanker trucks from passing. Pertamina is also assessing operational facilities in affected areas to support post-earthquake reconstruction and rehabilitation efforts.

Indonesian Woman Trafficked as 'Mail-Order Bride' to China Tortured by Husband and Forced into Domestic Servitude

Indonesia's Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim) has uncovered a human trafficking syndicate operating a 'mail-order bride' scheme to China, arresting two suspects. The victim was lured with promises of a comfortable life and a monthly allowance of Rp10 million, but instead suffered physical abuse and was forced to work as a domestic servant for her husband's extended family.

Iran says US pressure will not force Tehran to compromise

Iran's parliament speaker and chief negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has warned that Washington will not extract additional concessions from Tehran by intensifying pressure. His remarks follow a breakdown of the June ceasefire and a series of US military strikes against Iran. The escalating confrontation has seen Tehran retaliate against US bases in the Middle East and close the Strait of Hormuz.

South Kalimantan Police foil pangolin scale smuggling to Vietnam and China

South Kalimantan Police have arrested two suspects and seized 64 kilograms of pangolin scales destined for Vietnam and China. The scales, estimated to come from 320 adult pangolins, were purchased from hunters for Rp1.5 million per kilogram and were to be resold in Surabaya for Rp2.9 million. Authorities warn that poaching has pushed the pangolin to critically endangered status, threatening ecosystem balance.

Komnas Perempuan urges disaggregated data in disaster response

The National Commission on Violence Against Women has called for disaggregated data to ensure vulnerable groups receive adequate support following the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. The commission highlighted urgent needs including blankets, elderly diapers, and specific provisions for women and children. The government has reaffirmed its commitment to accelerating emergency response and recovery efforts in Flores.

Ministry prepares campus programme to aid post-earthquake recovery in NTT

The Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology is launching the Aksara Mahasiswa programme to involve universities and students in disaster response and recovery in East Nusa Tenggara. Minister Brian Yuliarto praised students from Undana and Unram who have already deployed to affected areas. The initiative will coordinate expertise in health, psychosocial support, data collection, and economic recovery.

Deputy Energy Minister says CNG endurance and refuelling tests already conducted

Deputy Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Yuliot Tanjung has confirmed that a series of tests on Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) have been carried out at Lemigas, covering endurance and refuelling aspects. The government is also preparing CNG supply sources through the development of mini refineries, including one in Pasuruan, East Java. Preparations for CNG implementation are being conducted in parallel within the ministry, with a pilot project expected once testing is complete.

Jakarta Provincial Government Optimises Parking Sector Revenue through Digitalisation

The Jakarta provincial government is expanding cashless parking payments and revising revenue-sharing schemes with private operators to boost locally generated income. The initiative aims to curb illegal parking and improve transparency, with cashless systems currently active on 31 roads and targeted to reach 75 by 2026. Officials say the changes will strengthen oversight and increase contributions to regional revenue.

Pasar Modal Didorong Jadi Mesin Impact Investing, AUM Capai Rp74 Triliun

Indonesia's capital market is being positioned as a key source of financing for impact investing, with total assets under management in impact products reaching approximately Rp74 trillion as of March 2026. The Indonesia Stock Exchange and Danantara Indonesia are urging stronger collaboration among regulators, investors, and social organisations to channel capital into sectors such as education, women's empowerment, and affordable housing. The push was highlighted at the Impact Investment Festival 2026, reflecting growing momentum to integrate impact investing into the mainstream capital market ecosystem.

Pramono Says Jakarta Weather Modification Hindered: There Are No Clouds

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has stated that efforts to conduct weather modification operations to induce rain in the capital are being hampered by a lack of rain clouds. The Governor noted that despite repeated instructions to the Regional Disaster Management Agency, the operations cannot proceed without the necessary cloud formations. The Jakarta administration is exploring alternative measures, such as water spraying by the fire department, as the dry season is expected to last until October.

Ribka: 81st Anniversary of Home Affairs Ministry a Momentum to Strengthen Disaster Resilience Synergy

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Ribka Haluk has called on the ministry's staff to use its 81st anniversary as a moment to strengthen unity and improve central-regional coordination. She highlighted the recent 7.7-magnitude earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara as a lesson for enhancing local government resilience and disaster preparedness. Ribka also outlined four key directives, including making the ministry a driver of national priority programmes and improving effective governance.

Mother in Pamekasan Kills Own Child, Suspected Depression After Divorce

A 10-year-old girl in Pamekasan, East Java, has died after allegedly being abused by her mother, who is suspected of suffering from mental health issues following her divorce. Police have named the 31-year-old mother a suspect but have transferred her to a psychiatric hospital in Lawang for observation rather than placing her in a detention cell. The case highlights the intersection of domestic violence, mental health, and social welfare in Indonesia.

Bahlil: Geothermal Development Key to Indonesia's Energy Self-Sufficiency

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has emphasised the strategic role of geothermal development in achieving Indonesia's energy self-sufficiency and downstreaming agenda. Speaking at the 12th Indonesia International Geothermal Convention & Exhibition, he outlined plans to expand installed capacity, offer new working areas, and promote 'Beyond Geothermal' applications such as mineral extraction. The government is preparing regulatory reforms and investment incentives to accelerate the sector's growth.

FTSE to Remove HSC-Listed Issuers from Index, Owners Include Salim and Sinar Mas

The Indonesia Stock Exchange has identified 56 shares with high shareholding concentration (HSC), drawing scrutiny from FTSE Russell, which has delayed full implementation of its Indonesian index adjustments until at least September 2026. The index provider may exclude HSC-status shares in its next evaluation, potentially reducing institutional demand for affected companies. The list includes issuers linked to major Indonesian conglomerates such as Sinar Mas, Salim Group, Prajogo Pangestu, and the Hartono family.

Sidoarjo BPJS Employment Participation Exceeds Target, Focus Shifts to Poverty Reduction

Sidoarjo Regency has surpassed its regional target for BPJS Ketenagakerjaan membership, but officials stress that the priority now is ensuring social security protection delivers tangible welfare improvements and helps reduce poverty. The regency has launched a civil servant movement to protect vulnerable workers and instructed all regional agencies to integrate membership evaluations with socio-economic conditions, particularly for the lowest income groups.

South Sumatra Police Strengthen Food Self-Sufficiency Through Garlic Cultivation

The South Sumatra Regional Police (Polda Sumsel) has launched a simultaneous garlic planting programme across five regencies, preparing 81 hectares of land with a target harvest of 810 tonnes by November 2026. The initiative is part of a national effort to reduce Indonesia's 90-95 percent dependence on garlic imports. Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo emphasised the importance of collective action to achieve garlic self-sufficiency.

MES Prepares Four-Stage Islamic Economy Development Roadmap to 2030

The Islamic Economic Society (MES) has unveiled a four-phase roadmap to develop Indonesia's sharia economy through 2030, aiming to position the country as a global Islamic economy hub. The plan progresses from institutional consolidation in 2026 to global expansion and refinement by 2030. MES leaders also stressed the importance of public awareness and alignment with government policy to ensure the roadmap's success.

Baznas mobilises aid for M7.7 earthquake victims in NTT

Indonesia's National Alms Agency (Baznas) has deployed emergency relief and health services to victims of the M7.7 earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. The response includes food aid, shelter, medical care, and repairs to public facilities. The government has also reaffirmed its commitment to accelerating emergency handling and recovery in the Flores region.

PTBA strengthens transformation and governance through 1MINDERP SAP system integration

PT Bukit Asam (PTBA) has implemented the 1MINDERP SAP system across its business lines, integrating finance, procurement, sales, mining operations and human resources. The state-owned coal miner says the move is part of a broader corporate transformation aimed at improving data accuracy, efficiency and decision-making. Management and commissioners emphasised that the system's true value lies in the governance and capabilities built around it, not merely the technology itself.

Residents Creatively Recycle Waste for Independence Day Fashion Show in West Jakarta

Residents of Kemanggisan, West Jakarta, have transformed plastic waste, corn husks, and other discarded materials into traditional and modern costumes for a fashion show celebrating Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. The initiative, carried out at RPTRA Manggis, also serves to implement Jakarta Governor Instruction No. 5 of 2026 on waste sorting and processing. Participants drew inspiration from social media and collaborated after work, with children also joining the creative process.

Jakarta Council Seeks to Plug Regional Revenue Leaks from Illegal Parking

The Jakarta Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) Special Committee on Parking Management is pushing for systemic reforms to curb leakage of locally generated revenue (PAD) from illegal parking operations. The committee argues that enforcement alone is insufficient and is advocating for an integrated parking database and cashless transactions to improve transparency and oversight.

Infrastructure and Digital Talent Readiness: Indonesia's Homework to Accelerate Investment

Indonesia needs to strengthen its digital infrastructure and talent pool to attract global artificial intelligence investment, according to AWS Indonesia Country Manager Anthony Amni. AWS has committed USD 5 billion over 15 years to data centres and AI technology in Indonesia. The company is addressing the country's digital talent gap through free cloud and AI training programmes such as 'Indonesia Pandai'.

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Calls for Stronger Synergy on Ministry's 81st Anniversary

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Ribka Haluk used the 81st anniversary of the Ministry of Home Affairs to urge all ranks to strengthen unity and central-regional synergy. She highlighted disaster resilience following the recent 7.7-magnitude earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. The ministry also held various social and sporting activities to mark the occasion.

Terrifying! Aftershock in Sikka Triggers Landslide on Uje Ubi Hill, Evacuees Flee in Panic

An aftershock in Palue, Sikka, East Nusa Tenggara, triggered a landslide on Uje Ubi Hill, causing panic among residents sheltering in evacuation tents. The landslide severed the connecting access between Rokirole and Nitunglea villages. Residents in Elar, East Manggarai, also reported that buildings collapsed in the earlier quake and that affected communities have yet to receive any aid.

KPK probes alleged BPK request for Muara Enim regent to arrange audit opinion change

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is investigating allegations that officials from the Supreme Audit Agency (BPK) asked the inactive Muara Enim regent to arrange a change in the audit opinion of the regency's financial report. Investigators are examining how the opinion shifted from qualified to unqualified and then allegedly back to qualified. Several witnesses, including local government officials, have been questioned as part of the probe.

Telkom Services in NTT Fully Restored After Earthquake

PT Telkom Indonesia has announced that all telecommunications and digital connectivity services in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) have been fully restored following the recent earthquake. The recovery was completed within three days, supported by network redundancy and satellite connectivity. TelkomGroup is also continuing humanitarian assistance across five affected areas as part of its corporate social responsibility programme.

China Finally Relents, Resigned to US Chip Influx

China has begun allowing limited imports of Nvidia's H200 AI chips, with ByteDance and Tencent each receiving around 10,000 processors in recent weeks. Beijing had previously resisted formal approval to protect its domestic chip industry, but has now quietly permitted shipments to enter the mainland. The move signals a pragmatic shift amid ongoing US technology trade restrictions.

Unsil Lecturers Develop Sustainable Food Gardens in Tasikmalaya to Tackle Nutritional Shortages

Lecturers from Siliwangi University have launched a sustainable food garden programme in Kampung Cihonje, Tasikmalaya, targeting families at risk of stunting. The initiative combines egg-laying hens, catfish, vegetables and fruit cultivation in household yards, supported by a government grant. Early harvests of vegetables and eggs are already helping to improve household nutrition and reduce food expenditure.

Jakarta Weather Modification Hampered, Here's Pramono's Explanation

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has revealed that the Weather Modification Operation (OMC) to address drought in the capital cannot yet be carried out due to the absence of potential clouds in the sky. He has repeatedly instructed the Jakarta Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) to proceed with cloud seeding, but atmospheric conditions have not permitted it. The BMKG has recorded that the 2026 El Niño phenomenon is active and could reach a very strong level, triggering a drier and longer dry season across much of Indonesia.

Singapore Warns Citizens of Possible Haze from Indonesian Forest Fires

Singapore's National Environment Agency has warned that haze may affect the city-state if forest fires in Sumatra and Kalimantan intensify amid ongoing dry weather. The agency detected hotspots with smoke plumes, particularly in southern and central Sumatra and parts of Kalimantan. Dry conditions are expected to persist, with winds from the southeast or southwest potentially carrying haze to Singapore.

Central Java Proposes Prabowo's Grandfather for National Hero Title

The Central Java provincial government has formally proposed Margono Djojohadikusumo, grandfather of President Prabowo Subianto, and KH Sholeh Darat for the title of National Hero. The proposals have been submitted to the Ministry of Social Affairs with gubernatorial recommendations. A decision is expected in time for Heroes' Day on 10 November.

DPR Commission X Deputy Chair Says 400 Schools Damaged by M 7.7 Earthquake in NTT

Around 400 schools in East Nusa Tenggara have suffered light to moderate damage following a magnitude 7.7 earthquake, according to Deputy Chair of House Commission X Lalu Hadrian Irfani. The figure is based on data from the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education and local governments, and is expected to rise as assessments continue. Aftershocks have also affected parts of West Nusa Tenggara, including Bima.

Chronology of Pancatera Drawing Criticism Over Photo Attending Palace Ceremony

Indonesian women's broadcasting group Pancatera has apologised after photos of its members attending the Independence Day ceremony at Merdeka Palace sparked public backlash. Critics argued the appearance contradicted the group's narrative of empowering Indonesian women, while others defended their right to engage across political lines. The group acknowledged the criticism and reaffirmed its independence from government or political affiliation.

Central Java DPRD Named Best in Indonesia for JDIH Management with Perfect Score of 100

The Central Java Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) has been recognised as the best in Indonesia for managing its Legal Documentation and Information Network (JDIH), achieving a perfect score of 100. The award was presented during the 81st Pengayoman Day ceremony in Central Java. The achievement highlights the council's commitment to digital transformation and public information transparency.

Environmental Protection Budget to Rise Sharply in 2027, What Is It For?

The Indonesian government has proposed a 23.5% increase in the environmental protection budget for 2027, raising it to Rp15.69 trillion from an estimated Rp12.71 trillion in 2026. The funds will support pollution control, waste management, climate change mitigation, biodiversity conservation, and forest rehabilitation. The government also aims to improve its Environmental Quality Index to 76.84 in 2027.

Naked Man Admits Assaulting Motorcyclists in Lenteng Agung While Drunk

A man identified only as J has been detained by police after a viral video showed him naked and assaulting motorcyclists in Lenteng Agung, South Jakarta. During questioning, J admitted to consuming a bottle of alcoholic drink and claimed he could not remember his actions. The incident, which occurred near Lenteng Agung Station, left an online motorcycle taxi driver unconscious and prompted police to warn the suspect against future alcohol abuse.

Klaten Holds 2026 Cultural Carnival, Visualising Ancient Mataram Civilisation

Klaten Regency held its 2026 Cultural Carnival on 18 August to mark the 222nd anniversary of Klaten and the 81st anniversary of Indonesian independence. The event featured 28 contingents from 26 districts showcasing local arts, traditions, and economic potential along a 1.5-kilometre route. The regency government used the carnival to highlight Klaten's historical roots in the Ancient Mataram Kingdom and to promote the preservation of cultural heritage.

Medan Police Foil Distribution of 622 Drug-Laced Vapes Worth Rp2 Billion

Medan police have intercepted 622 vape devices containing narcotics with an estimated street value of nearly Rp2 billion. A suspect identified as DF was arrested while transporting the items, which are believed to have been smuggled from Malaysia via Aceh. Authorities are now pursuing the main supplier suspected of operating in Aceh.

Former Tirtayasa president director named suspect in Rp2.7 billion corruption case

The Pekalongan District Attorney's Office has named the former president director of regional water company Perumda Tirtayasa and three others as suspects in an alleged corruption case causing state losses of around Rp2.7 billion. The case involves fictitious procurement of goods and services as well as alleged forgery of vehicle maintenance vouchers. All four suspects have been detained at the Pekalongan Class IIA Detention Centre.

Weather Modification to Bring Rain to Jakarta Cannot Be Carried Out Due to Absence of Clouds

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has stated that weather modification operations cannot currently be conducted due to the absence of clouds over the capital. The BMKG has confirmed that El Niño 2026 is active and could reach a very strong level, potentially triggering a drier and longer dry season across most of Indonesia.

PLN Offers 50% Power Upgrade Discount to Celebrate Indonesia's 81st Independence Day

State electricity company PT PLN is offering a 50% discount on power capacity upgrades through its 'Merdeka Daya' promotion, running until 25 August 2026. The offer applies to single-phase low-voltage customers with initial capacity between 450 VA and 5,500 VA who upgrade to a maximum of 7,700 VA. Customers must transact through the PLN Mobile app to receive an e-voucher for the discount.

A Trust That Is Never Finished

An opinion piece reflecting on Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, juxtaposing national celebrations with the ongoing earthquake recovery in Flores, East Nusa Tenggara. The author argues that independence is an unfinished mandate passed between generations, encompassing government policy, education, and social solidarity. The piece draws on personal family milestones to illustrate how each generation must carry forward the responsibility of building the nation.

Free Nutritious Meals Programme in South Sumatra reaches two million people, 834 SPPG operating across 17 regions

The Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme in South Sumatra has reached over two million beneficiaries across 17 districts and cities. A total of 834 Nutrition Fulfilment Service Units (SPPG) are now operational, with 794 having obtained the Hygiene Sanitation Feasibility Certificate (SLHS). The programme is a key government initiative aimed at improving nutrition and food security.

Minister Jumhur Urges Major Nations to Share Responsibility on Environmental Issues

Indonesia's Environment Minister Mohammad Jumhur Hidayat has called on economically powerful developed nations to uphold their collective responsibility in tackling pollution and climate change, warning against retreat from global commitments. Speaking at a BRICS environment ministers' meeting in New Delhi, he highlighted Indonesia's rich biodiversity and its vulnerability to climate impacts. He also presented traditional Indonesian practices such as Subak, Sasi Lompa, and Awig-Awig as models for community-based climate adaptation.

Bali Police Deploy 10 Personnel and 4 Specialised Vehicles to Assist Disaster Victims in NTT

Bali Regional Police have dispatched a Search and Rescue team and specialised vehicles to support post-disaster relief efforts in East Nusa Tenggara. The deployment includes mobile kitchen and water purification units to assist displaced residents. The team departed via land and sea routes, expected to arrive at Ende Port.

11,925 Homes Damaged by NTT Earthquake to Receive Rp 15-30 Million in Assistance

The Indonesian government has announced financial assistance for 11,925 homes damaged by the recent earthquake in Nusa Tenggara Timur. Households with lightly damaged homes will receive Rp 15 million, while those with moderately damaged homes will receive Rp 30 million. Owners of severely damaged homes will be offered either temporary rental assistance or government-built temporary housing before relocation to permanent homes.

BMKG Warns of 2.5 Metre High Waves in South Kalimantan Waters on 20 August 2026

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has issued an early warning for high waves reaching up to 2.5 metres in four South Kalimantan waters. The warning, effective from Thursday 20 August 2026, covers Banjarmasin, Kotabaru, Tanah Laut and Tanah Bumbu. Fishermen, barge operators, ferry operators and large vessels are urged to exercise heightened caution.

Police plant garlic simultaneously in 14 regional commands to support self-sufficiency

The Indonesian National Police have carried out simultaneous garlic planting across 14 regional police commands, covering 279.5 hectares with an estimated yield of 2,795 tonnes. The initiative is part of police support for the government's drive to accelerate national garlic self-sufficiency. A harvest festival was also held in East Lombok, with projected output of 1,050 tonnes.

Rehabilitation of damaged schools in Jakarta to begin September 2026

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has announced that construction work on several damaged schools in the capital will commence in September 2026. Funding will be drawn partly from Floor Area Ratio compensation and the regional budget, with four critically damaged schools prioritised for accelerated handling this year. A dedicated team will inventory all school buildings within one month to determine rehabilitation priorities.

Does eating too many eggs cause boils? Myth or fact?

A viral note from a Bekasi primary school pupil complaining about the frequency of eggs in the free nutritious meal programme has reignited the old belief that eggs cause boils. Health authorities confirm there is no medical basis for this claim, attributing boils to bacterial skin infections rather than egg consumption. The Ministry of Health advises that recurring skin complaints after eating eggs are more likely to indicate an allergy and should be checked by a doctor.

KPK Examines Two Customs and Excise Civil Servants in Import Corruption Case Development

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has questioned two civil servants from the Directorate General of Customs and Excise as witnesses in the ongoing development of an import corruption case. The investigation has already led to the naming of a new suspect, Gatot Heroe, who served as Head of Supervision and Service for the Kediri Customs Region. A second new investigation warrant has also been issued, though no suspect has yet been named in that matter.

Indonesia Aims to Become World Geothermal Leader by 2030, Here Are the Development Assets

Indonesia is accelerating geothermal development to strengthen national energy security and independence, leveraging the world's largest geothermal potential. The Indonesian Geothermal Association (INAGA) is pushing for the utilisation of 88 percent of untapped reserves to support the government's '30.1' target of becoming the global geothermal leader by 2030. The push comes as the country marks a century of geothermal exploration.

Fire in Matraman, East Jakarta Destroys Three Homes

A fire in Pisangan Baru, Matraman, East Jakarta, destroyed three residential properties on Wednesday morning. Police confirmed there were no casualties and are investigating the cause of the blaze. Firefighters brought the fire under control within approximately one hour of arriving at the scene.

BNPT RI and Australia's DFAT initiate public space protection curriculum

Indonesia's National Counter-Terrorism Agency (BNPT) and the Australian Government have initiated the development of a regional curriculum for public space protection to strengthen security and resilience across ASEAN member states. The initiative follows a July 2026 workshop in Bali focused on protecting crowded spaces, vulnerable targets, and critical infrastructure. The curriculum is intended to serve as a strategic reference for ASEAN countries in enhancing collective security against increasingly complex and cross-border terrorist threats.

Trump Backs Down: Finally Delays 50% Import Tariff

US President Donald Trump abruptly postponed a 50% tariff on Canadian imports just hours before it was due to take effect, citing a trade agreement between Washington and Ottawa. The decision follows talks with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and includes signals that the stalled Keystone XL oil pipeline project could be revived. The tariff, invoked under the rarely used Section 338 of the Tariff Act of 1930, would have affected around US$20 billion worth of Canadian goods.

KPK summons four BPK civil servants over Muara Enim bribery case

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned four civil servants from the Supreme Audit Agency's South Sumatra office as witnesses in a bribery case involving Muara Enim Regent Edison. Investigators are also examining allegations that similar practices occurred in other regions, including Penukal Abab Lematang Ilir. The case centres on alleged payments to alter audit findings and secure unqualified opinions for local governments.

Khofifah Touched by Children Saluting the Flag from Outside Grahadi

East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa invited children who saluted the Indonesian flag from outside the Grahadi State Building during the 81st Independence Day ceremony to a special celebration. The children's spontaneous display of nationalism moved the governor, who organised an inclusive event involving orphans, children from social care institutions, and therapy patients. Khofifah emphasised that love for the homeland should be introduced through everyday experiences rather than formal activities.

PU accelerates data collection on public service buildings affected by earthquake in NTT

The Ministry of Public Works is expediting surveys and inspections of public service buildings damaged by the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. Priority is being given to essential facilities such as hospitals, government offices, public amenities, and places of worship. Additional personnel have been deployed to assess structural safety and identify repair needs, while drinking water infrastructure is also being checked and restored.

Video: BI Rate Forecast to Hold Steady – Investors Monitor BI Independence

UOB Asset Management Indonesia's CIO expects Bank Indonesia to keep the BI Rate at 5.75% at its August 2026 meeting, in line with market consensus. However, a potential Fed rate hike later in the year could prompt BI to follow suit to maintain yield spreads. Investors are also closely watching the central bank's independence following Perry Warjiyo's departure as Governor.

Jakarta Sees Midday Rain After Two-Week Dry Spell

Rain returned to Jakarta on Wednesday afternoon, breaking a two-week dry period. The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has indicated that rain potential in the capital may decrease over the following three days.

Pile-up on Batang-Semarang Toll Road kills one person

A multi-vehicle collision on the Batang-Semarang Toll Road in Central Java has left one person dead and two seriously injured. Police are still investigating the cause of the crash, which involved an ambulance, a truck and two passenger cars. Initial findings suggest the ambulance driver lost concentration and struck the rear of a truck before veering into another vehicle.

Bahlil Calls for Accelerated Geothermal Development

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has urged geothermal developers to accelerate power plant development, citing a government target of 5.2 GW additional capacity by 2034. He stressed that faster progress requires collaboration between businesses and regulators, alongside regulatory reforms and tax incentives. Indonesia currently utilises only about 11.6% of its geothermal potential.

Maluku: Transfer of PPPK teachers to central government eases regional fiscal space

Maluku Governor Hendrik Lewerissa has welcomed the central government's decision to take over the employment status and financing of PPPK teachers, stating it will free up regional budgets for other development programmes. The policy, agreed between the government and the DPR, will convert part-time PPPK teachers to full-time status and allow existing full-time PPPK teachers to apply for civil servant positions in 2027. Lewerissa expressed hope the policy will be implemented consistently and sustainably to improve teacher welfare.

Indonesia receives upgraded C-130H Hercules after GMF overhaul

Indonesian state-owned aircraft maintenance firm GMF AeroAsia has delivered an upgraded C-130H Hercules to the Defence Ministry after completing a major structural overhaul and avionics modernisation outside Lockheed Martin's facilities. The work, carried out with the Indonesian Air Force, PT Dirgantara Indonesia and Lockheed Martin under a defence offset programme, is expected to extend the aircraft's operational life by 15 to 20 years. GMF says it will continue expanding its MRO capabilities for both civil and defence sectors.

Umayyad Dynasty Coins in Tapanuli: The Story of the Caliph's Tawhid Doctrine Against Byzantium

Archaeological excavations at the Bongal site in Central Tapanuli, North Sumatra, have uncovered Umayyad and Abbasid coins dating from the 8th to 9th centuries CE, providing concrete evidence of maritime trade links between the Indonesian archipelago and the Islamic world. The coins also tell a story of doctrinal rivalry, as Caliph Abdul Malik bin Marwan's coinage emphasised the oneness of God in direct opposition to the Christian Trinity doctrine of the Byzantine Empire. The findings contribute significantly to the historiography of early Islam in North Sumatra.

Tangerang Regency investment realisation reaches Rp29.04 trillion

Tangerang Regency in Banten recorded investment realisation of Rp29.04 trillion in the first half of 2026, the highest among all cities and regencies in the province. The figure represents 74.4 per cent of the annual target of Rp39.03 trillion and has created 40,149 new jobs. Foreign investment contributed Rp10.3 trillion while domestic investment accounted for Rp18.74 trillion.

KPK Again Questions Former Tax Official Suspected in Rp21.5 Billion Gratification Case

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has again questioned Muhammad Haniv, a former head of the Directorate General of Taxes' Jakarta Special Regional Office, as a suspect in a gratification case. Haniv is alleged to have received Rp21.5 billion in gratuities while in office, partly to support his child's fashion business. Investigators have also traced assets including a restaurant and a cottage believed to be linked to the case.

Sukabumi Village Finance Officer Named Suspect in APBDes Corruption Case

The Sukabumi District Prosecutor's Office has named the Finance Head of Ciheulangtonggoh Village, identified as RN, a suspect in the alleged corruption of the 2025 Village Revenue and Expenditure Budget (APBDes). RN is accused of creating fictitious payment request documents for 67 activities and forging signatures to embezzle village funds. The suspect faces up to 20 years in prison under anti-corruption laws.

Yonif 511/DY distributes 50 flags and provides health services to Papuan residents

The Yonif 511/DY border security task force distributed 50 Indonesian flags and provided free healthcare to residents of Numbukawi Village in Lanny Jaya Regency, Papua Pegunungan, as part of Indonesia's 81st Independence Day commemorations. The initiative aimed to foster nationalism while addressing basic healthcare needs in remote areas. Local community leaders welcomed the assistance, noting that access to health services has long been hampered by distance.

Police say fire in Matraman, East Jakarta, destroys three houses

A fire in Pisangan Baru, Matraman, East Jakarta, destroyed three houses on Wednesday morning. Police confirmed there were no casualties, though material losses have yet to be assessed. An investigation is ongoing to determine the exact cause of the blaze.

Pramono Uses KLB Funds to Repair Damaged Schools: LPDP Jakarta Will Still Proceed

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has confirmed that the LPDP Jakarta scholarship programme will continue despite the city's need to repair damaged schools. Funding for school repairs will be drawn from building floor coefficient (KLB) funds, with construction set to begin next month. Pramono also stated that the repair budget is larger than originally proposed, while the scholarship scheme is expected to fund 50–75 students next year.

UBSI Lecturers Secure BIMA 2026 Grant to Digitise Aloe Vera SMEs in Karanggintung

Lecturers from Universitas Bina Sarana Informatika (UBSI) Purwokerto have secured funding from the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology's BIMA 2026 programme to support digitalisation of aloe vera SMEs in Karanggintung Village, Banyumas. The initiative will develop the Si VERA platform to improve business governance and expand market access for local producers. The programme includes training, mentoring, system implementation, and evaluation throughout 2026.

Thousands of Nonstop Earthquakes Hit NTT, Is the Real Catastrophe Threatening Flores?

A member of the Indonesian Association of Disaster Experts has warned that the M7.7 earthquake that struck Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, triggered massive landslides along strategic routes from Ende to Maumere due to local geological vulnerability and the large seismic energy released. The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) reported 2,768 aftershocks as of 19 August 2026, with 24 exceeding magnitude 5, and warned that repeated felt aftershocks could trigger further landslides, especially during rain. Authorities have urged residents to avoid damaged buildings and to keep evacuation routes clear while monitoring official updates.

2026 civil service academy admissions open: schedule, quotas and how to apply

The Indonesian government has opened registration for the 2026 civil service academy intake, offering 4,770 places across nine ministries and agencies. Applications run from 18 to 30 August 2026 through the SSCASN portal, with selection stages continuing until November. The quota is significantly higher than the 3,257 places allocated in 2025, including 200 affirmative-action places for candidates from Papua.

BMKG Records 2,768 Aftershocks Following M7.7 Flores Earthquake

The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has recorded 2,768 aftershocks following the magnitude 7.7 earthquake that struck Flores, East Nusa Tenggara. The agency expects aftershock activity to subside within three to four weeks and has urged residents to remain calm but vigilant. The disaster has resulted in 69 fatalities and 331 injuries, with BMKG deploying teams to support post-disaster recovery and reconstruction.

BRIN quake-resistant homes stand after 7.7-magnitude quake

Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) has reported that three earthquake-resistant homes built in East Nusa Tenggara survived a 7.7-magnitude earthquake with no structural damage. The houses use rubber-bearing seismic technology and modular construction developed by BRIN, and the agency plans further laboratory testing in 2026. BRIN is encouraging wider replication of the design in other earthquake-prone parts of Indonesia to improve housing safety and reduce damage risks.

Nurturing Togetherness Through the Tradition of Communal Dining

Residents of five hamlets in Cijulang Village, Ciamis Regency, West Java, gathered for a communal meal known as Botram Salembur to mark Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. The tradition served as an expression of gratitude while reinforcing social bonds and the culture of mutual cooperation. The event highlighted how sharing food can strengthen unity at the grassroots level.

Surface Water Tax Should Not Merely Be an Instrument for Pursuing Local Revenue

An economist from the University of Riau has cautioned that the Surface Water Tax should not be used solely as a tool for local governments to boost their locally generated revenue. Dahlan Tampubolon argues that the tax must be based on actual, measurable water usage and should also serve to control water consumption. He urges local governments to ensure transparent measurement and legal certainty for businesses, particularly in the palm oil industry.

Pupuk Indonesia and BUMN Volunteers Provide Aid and Disaster Response Programme in NTT

PT Pupuk Indonesia, through the 2026 Relawan Bakti BUMN programme, has delivered emergency aid to communities affected by the earthquake in Ruteng, Manggarai, East Nusa Tenggara. The assistance includes food packages, blankets, and health services, alongside community empowerment programmes focused on agriculture and disability capacity building. The initiative aims to support post-disaster recovery while strengthening long-term community resilience and preparedness.

Health Minister assures operations continue despite Ruteng Hospital damage from NTT earthquake

Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin has confirmed that surgical procedures for earthquake victims in Nusa Tenggara Timur will continue despite damage to Ruteng Regional Hospital. The ministry is deploying orthopaedic specialists and constructing field hospitals in Manggarai and Nagekeo to restore services. Health teams are also conducting village-level sweeps to identify patients requiring urgent care.

Lampung's 1,450 hectares of new paddy fields to drive agricultural extensification

Lampung Province has been allocated 1,450 hectares of new paddy field construction for 2026 to support agricultural extensification. Half of the construction is already complete, with initial planting scheduled for 20 August in Tulang Bawang Regency. The programme is expected to increase the province's harvest area by 31,000 hectares through both land optimisation and extensification.

Radea Appreciates Community Service by KCK FEB Universitas Widyatama

Bandung City DPRD Commission I Chair Radea Respati Paramudhita has praised a community service programme by Universitas Widyatama's Faculty of Economics and Business at the Bandung Class IIA Women's Prison. The ecopreneurship initiative trains female inmates to turn household plastic waste into marketable products, aiming to build economic independence. Radea stressed the need for cross-sector collaboration and ongoing mentoring to ensure the programme's long-term impact.

NTT quake - Two field hospitals set up to maintain health services

Indonesia's Health Ministry has deployed two field hospitals to Nagekeo and Ende in East Nusa Tenggara after an earthquake damaged local health facilities. The emergency medical teams include surgeons, anaesthesiologists and nurses, and have brought priority supplies such as vaccines, intravenous fluids and protective equipment. The ministry says it will continue monitoring conditions and assessing additional needs with local governments to restore health services across affected areas.

Central Java's 81st Anniversary: Ahmad Luthfi Appreciates Role of Farmers, Workers, and MSMEs

Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi marked the province's 81st anniversary by expressing appreciation for the contributions of farmers, workers, MSME players, teachers, health workers, youth, and people with disabilities. He highlighted key development achievements during his 545 days in office, including reduced unemployment and poverty rates, increased investment, and progress in education, health, and housing programmes. Luthfi emphasised that these accomplishments resulted from collaboration between the government and the community.

Government Sets Education Budget at Rp820.8 Trillion, MBG Portion Rp240 Trillion

The Indonesian government has allocated Rp820.8 trillion for education in the 2027 State Budget Draft, with Rp240.2 trillion earmarked for the Free Nutritious Meals programme. The MBG programme targets 72.1 million beneficiaries, a reduction from 82.9 million in 2026. Policy focus will be on improving governance, restructuring service units, and establishing a command centre for better coordination.

Andre Rosiade: House Commission VI and Danantara to Oversee LRT City Issues After Summoning Adhi Karya

House Commission VI has summoned Danantara Asset Management, Adhi Commuter Properti, and Adhi Karya to address the stalled LRT City apartment projects affecting over 2,400 consumers. The commission pledged to monitor progress and ensure commitments are honoured. The meeting followed consumer complaints about construction delays and certificate issues.

Papua Highlands agency tightens oversight of special autonomy funds

The Papua Highlands special autonomy oversight agency (BP3OKP) is stepping up monitoring of special autonomy fund allocations across the province's eight districts, having already conducted outreach in Lanny Jaya and Jayawijaya. The agency, which operates under the vice president, aims to ensure regional programmes comply with regulations and that funds earmarked for education, health, infrastructure, and Indigenous Papuan economic empowerment are not misused. Officials warned that deviations could lead to legal action, while coordination among district governments is seen as key to preventing misuse from the outset.

Indonesia sends cumulative 253 tons of aid to quake-hit NTT

The Indonesian government has dispatched a total of 253 tons of humanitarian aid to earthquake-affected areas in East Nusa Tenggara, following a magnitude 7.7 tremor that killed 70 people. President Prabowo Subianto has instructed officials to ensure timely distribution, with additional aircraft, naval vessels, and two command centres deployed to support relief operations. The government reports that all overland routes are now accessible as it continues to monitor conditions and deliver supplies to affected communities.

Mataram Police confirm no sexual violence in NDR case

Mataram Police have stated that suspect Haikal did not commit sexual violence against student NDR in the alleged murder case at her boarding house. Forensic findings indicate that injuries to the victim's genital area occurred before the incident and were caused by a close friend. The case file is still being processed, with prosecutors requesting further investigation into potential sexual violence elements.

Krayan Highlands, Organic Rice, and the Vital Role of the National Park

The Krayan Highlands in North Kalimantan produce premium organic Adan rice, relying entirely on the pristine water cycle sustained by the forests of Kayan Mentarang National Park. Local Dayak Lundayeh farmers struggle to meet demand, particularly from Malaysia, while the national park authority provides modern equipment to boost productivity. The ecological interdependence between the protected forest and the valley's rice paddies underpins both food sovereignty and the region's economic future.

Mac Can Be Hacked Without Password, Update Immediately

Apple has patched a critical authentication bypass vulnerability in macOS Screen Sharing that allowed attackers to access Macs remotely without valid credentials. The flaw, tracked as CVE-2026-65400, was actively exploited to install Monero cryptominers, with the Dutch National Cyber Security Centre issuing warnings after multiple incidents. Users are urged to update their systems immediately or disable Screen Sharing and Remote Management if updates cannot be applied.

Not Mentally Ill: Man Who Assaulted Motorcyclists in Lenteng Agung Was Drunk

Police have arrested a man identified as J after a viral video showed him naked and assaulting motorcyclists in Lenteng Agung, South Jakarta. Contrary to social media claims that he was mentally ill, police confirmed the suspect was intoxicated. He is currently being held at Jagakarsa Police Station for further investigation.

Bareskrim Dismantles Human Trafficking Ring Using 'Mail-Order Bride' Scheme to China, Two Named Suspects

Indonesia's Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim) has uncovered a transnational human trafficking syndicate that recruited Indonesian women to marry Chinese nationals under a 'mail-order bride' scheme. Two suspects have been named for luring victims with promises of money and a better life abroad, only for victims to face physical abuse and forced domestic labour in China. The case highlights ongoing vulnerabilities in cross-border marriage arrangements and the enforcement of Indonesia's anti-trafficking laws.

Pramono Opens SBY Art Community 2026 Exhibition at TIM, Carrying a Message of Peace

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung inaugurated the SBY Art Community 2026 exhibition at Taman Ismail Marzuki, highlighting its role in fostering cultural exchange between Indonesia and Germany. The exhibition, themed 'Art for Peace and a Better Future: Collaboration', features works by German and Indonesian artists and runs until 30 August. Pramono emphasised the importance of art in shaping Jakarta's identity as a global city and strengthening the sister-city relationship with Berlin.

UAE Economy Hit by Iran War: Is It Really on the Brink of Crisis?

The UAE has rolled out incentives and support packages to cushion the economic blow from the Iran war, which has devastated its hospitality sector and rattled foreign investors. While officials insist the economy remains resilient, analysts warn of falling GDP, declining foreign direct investment, and persistent investor caution. A currency swap line request from the US has raised questions about the true state of the UAE's finances.

Public Works Ministry accelerates clean water supply for earthquake-affected residents in NTT

The Ministry of Public Works is prioritising clean water provision for around 7,000 residents across eight villages on Palue Island, Sikka Regency, following a magnitude 7.7 earthquake on 15 August 2026. Emergency water supplies are being delivered while geoelectric surveys are prepared to identify new groundwater sources for long-term needs. The ministry is also addressing landslide clearance, coastal protection repairs, and restoration of damaged public service facilities.

IHSG Session I Corrected 0.60% to 6,411

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) fell 0.60% to 6,411.19 in the first trading session on Wednesday, pressured by a sharp decline in Bayan Resources shares after the company denied takeover rumours. Investors are also awaiting Bank Indonesia's monetary policy decision and monitoring geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.

Pramono reveals why weather modification cannot yet be carried out in Jakarta

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has explained that cloud seeding operations cannot currently proceed because there are no clouds over the capital. He has repeatedly instructed the Regional Disaster Management Agency to carry out weather modification as soon as conditions allow. The BMKG has warned that the active El Niño phenomenon in 2026 could bring a drier and longer dry season, increasing drought risks across Indonesia.

House Commission IV appreciates efforts towards national garlic self-sufficiency

House of Representatives Commission IV Chair Titiek Soeharto has praised the National Police and Ministry of Agriculture for accelerating national garlic self-sufficiency. Indonesia was self-sufficient in garlic in 1994 but now imports around 90 percent of its needs. A simultaneous planting programme across 14 regional police commands is projected to yield 2,795 tonnes by the fourth quarter of 2026.

55 Percent of Nusa Penida Tourism Levy Allocated for BPJS and Social Assistance

The Klungkung Regency Government has outlined how revenue from the Nusa Penida tourism levy will be distributed, with 55 percent earmarked for public services and social programmes such as BPJS health contributions for low-income residents and social assistance. The allocation scheme follows the dissemination of Regional Regulation No. 4 of 2026 on Regional Taxes and Levies, which takes effect on 1 September 2026. Officials stressed that levy rates remain unchanged, with adjustments only to the collection system.

Indonesia Stock Exchange Extends Suspension of WIKA Shares

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) has extended the trading suspension of state-owned construction firm PT Wijaya Karya (Persero) Tbk (WIKA) across all markets. The decision follows the company's postponement of bond interest payments and mudharabah sukuk profit-sharing distributions originally due on 18 August 2026. The suspension will remain in place until further notice from the exchange.

NTT quake aid fund reaches US$244,000, provincial govt says

East Nusa Tenggara's disaster-relief account held Rp4.36 billion (US$244,000) as of 18 August, sourced from regional governments and public donations. The provincial government is distributing medical, logistical, and food aid through emergency-response posts, prioritising the hardest-hit communities. Coordination with regencies and the disaster agency aims to match assistance to needs identified on the ground.

To Curb Pollution, Jakarta Fire Service Sprays Water While Cloud Seeding Remains Impossible

The Jakarta provincial government is deploying fire service equipment to spray water as an interim measure against poor air quality. Governor Pramono Anung said weather modification operations cannot yet proceed because cloud formation over the capital is currently insufficient. The administration remains ready to conduct cloud seeding as soon as atmospheric conditions allow.

US Imposes New Sanctions on ICC President and Senior Prosecutor

The United States has sanctioned the president of the International Criminal Court and a senior prosecutor, escalating the Trump administration's campaign against the tribunal. The measures target Tomoko Akane and Abdoulaye Seye over the ICC's investigations involving officials from non-member states. The ICC has said it remains undaunted and warned that such actions undermine the rule of law.

Apple accidentally leaks how camera-equipped AirPods work

Apple has inadvertently revealed details of its forthcoming camera-equipped AirPods through promotional material for macOS Tahoe 26.7. The leak shows a feature called Visual Intelligence that allows the earbuds to identify objects and save information. Reports suggest the product remains on track for a potential launch in September 2026 alongside the iPhone 18 Pro range.

DPR urges government to ensure schools in NTT continue operating after earthquake

Deputy Chairman of House Commission X Lalu Hadrian Irfani has called on the government to guarantee that teaching and learning continues for students in East Nusa Tenggara following the recent earthquake. He stressed that education must not be halted for long despite ongoing aftershocks and urged an inventory of affected teachers, students, and education personnel. The government has been asked to provide emergency schools, including tents or use of unaffected school buildings, while relevant ministries have already begun delivering post-earthquake assistance.

62-Year-Old Woman Dies After Boundary Wall Collapses in Gunung Sindur, Bogor

A 62-year-old woman died after a boundary wall collapsed on her in Rawakalong Village, Gunung Sindur, Bogor Regency. The victim, identified by the initials PE, was passing by the wall near her rented home when the structure gave way. Police and local officials attended the scene and the body was later taken to a hospital in Pamulang before being returned to the family home in Parung.

Balinese Art Works Encouraged to Enter Intellectual Property System

The Ministry of Law's Bali regional office is pushing for Balinese art, traditions and local knowledge to be registered under the Intellectual Property system. Communal intellectual property applications in Bali have surged by 206 percent year-on-year, reaching 46 submissions by 18 August 2026. The ministry has also launched the Sanga Gumi Bali Gallery as a digital documentation and education platform for communal intellectual property.

US, UAE discuss Strait of Hormuz amid Iran-Oman talks

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and UAE National Security Adviser Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan held a phone call to discuss regional security, including freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. The discussion took place as Iran and Oman reportedly reached an agreement on shipping routes in the strategic waterway. The US has previously signalled it would take action against Oman if it obstructed passage.

Traffic Police Chief: Over-Dimension and Overload Vehicles Impact Safety and Road Damage

The National Police Traffic Corps (Korlantas) has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the government's Zero Over Dimension and Overload policy targeted for 2027. The policy aims to address the significant impacts of overloaded vehicles on road safety, infrastructure damage, and environmental pollution. Implementation will be phased and carefully timed to avoid disrupting staple goods availability and price stability ahead of Ramadan and Idul Fitri.

Police Corruption Task Force Asks Judge to Reject Febrie Adriansyah's Pre-trial Motion

The National Police's Corruption Eradication Task Force (Kortas Tipikor Polri) has urged the South Jakarta District Court to dismiss a pre-trial motion filed by former Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah. The police argue that the motion challenges evidentiary matters outside the scope of pre-trial review. Febrie is a suspect in multiple corruption and money laundering cases, including those linked to ASABRI, PT Krakatau Steel, and a coal procurement project.

Teenage Hiker Who Fell into Mount Slamet Crater Found Dead

A 16-year-old hiker from Brebes, Central Java, has been found dead after falling into the crater of Mount Slamet. The victim reportedly fell when the ground at the crater rim collapsed while he was sitting there. A joint SAR team was deployed to recover the body, equipped to handle potential toxic gas exposure in the crater.

House Commission X Reveals 400 Schools Affected by NTT Earthquake, Proposes Emergency Schools

Deputy Chairman of House Commission X Lalu Hadrian Irfani has reported that approximately 400 schools have been affected by the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara, with the figure expected to rise as damage assessments continue. He has urged the government to classify the damage by severity and to prepare emergency schools, including tents or the use of undamaged facilities, to ensure learning continues.

Police say Febrie Adriansyah named suspect based on two pieces of evidence

Indonesian police have defended their decision to name former Jampidsus official Febrie Adriansyah a suspect, stating the move was based on more than two valid pieces of evidence. The case relates to alleged corruption in the handling of PT ASABRI and PT Asuransi Jiwasraya cases, as well as suspected money laundering. Febrie has filed a pre-trial motion challenging the investigation orders and a search warrant.

House Commission V Criticises Inaccurate Ship Manifests, Urges Transport Minister to Improve

House of Representatives Commission V Chairman Lasarus has criticised the persistent inaccuracy of ship passenger manifests, linking the issue to recent ferry fires. He has urged Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi to ensure no passenger boards without being recorded, warning of legal difficulties for victims' families otherwise.

Market Increasingly Selective, Mirae Asset Sekuritas Strengthens Wealth Management Services

Mirae Asset Sekuritas Indonesia sees room for domestic market strengthening in the second half of 2026 as external pressures ease, but cautions investors to weigh trade-offs around inflation, fiscal credibility, and earnings quality. The firm is transforming its wealth management offering from a product-centric to a client-centric approach to meet evolving investor needs.

Education Budget Rises by Rp100 Trillion in 2027, What About Teacher Salaries?

The Indonesian government has increased the education budget in the 2027 Draft State Budget (RAPBN) to Rp820.9 trillion, up 13.9% from this year's allocation. Despite the significant increase, Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa said there are no current plans to raise teacher salaries, though the policy remains open if fiscal conditions allow. The additional funds will be directed towards expanding access to education, infrastructure development, and the free nutritious meals programme.

Police Respond to Febrie's Pretrial Motion, Explain Reasons for Transferring Case to AGO

The Indonesian National Police have defended their decision to transfer the investigation of former Jampidsus Febrie Adriansyah to the Attorney General's Office, arguing the move was lawful and part of institutional coordination. Police representatives told the South Jakarta District Court that the transfer was intended to ensure legal certainty and avoid duplication of case handling. Febrie is challenging his suspect designation, as well as the legality of searches and seizures conducted by police.

Indian Tourist Dies While Queuing at Komodo Airport in Labuan Bajo

An Indian national collapsed and died while queuing for check-in at Komodo Airport in Labuan Bajo, East Nusa Tenggara. The 68-year-old tourist received emergency medical attention but was pronounced dead at Siloam Hospital. Authorities are coordinating with the family regarding repatriation of the body.

Prosecutors say LKPP testimony at Nadiem appeal hearing strengthens verdict

Prosecutors from the Attorney General's Office argue that testimony from a former LKPP official during Nadiem Anwar Makarim's appeal hearing reinforces the first-instance court's ruling. The appeal panel is still reviewing the appeal memorandum and counter-memorandum. Nadiem was previously sentenced to 10 years in prison for corruption related to the procurement of Chromebook laptops and CDM learning materials.

US Deports 1,200 Foreign Nationals to Liberia in Mass Immigration Crackdown

The Trump administration is deporting up to 1,200 foreign nationals to Liberia as part of an unprecedented expansion of US immigration enforcement. Liberia has agreed to accept the deportees on humanitarian grounds, stating it received no compensation, while former US officials allege visa restrictions are being used to pressure African nations into accepting third-country nationals.

Strengthening patient navigation crucial to accelerate lung cancer services

AstraZeneca Indonesia has called for stronger patient navigation services to speed up diagnosis, referral, and treatment for lung cancer patients in Indonesia. The company argues that such services require long-term commitment, clear standards, and policy support to become a permanent part of the health system. The appeal comes amid data showing lung cancer accounts for 12.4 percent of all cancer cases globally and 18.7 percent of cancer deaths.

Two Foreign Nationals Deported from Bali After Viral Salon Payment Dispute and Overstay

Immigration authorities in Bali have deported two foreign nationals, a German woman and a Norwegian woman, for overstaying their visas. The Norwegian woman gained public attention after a viral video showed her refusing to pay for eyebrow treatment at a salon in Canggu. Both individuals were found to have violated Indonesia's Immigration Law, with overstays of 34 and 84 days respectively.

Colombia earthquake death toll rises to 304

The death toll from the 7.4-magnitude earthquake that struck Colombia on 10 August has risen to 304, with 4,548 injured and 426 still missing. President Abelardo de la Espriella said around a third of the country was affected, with initial estimates putting direct economic losses at nearly 30 trillion Colombian pesos. Humanitarian aid continues to arrive from domestic and international sources as search and rescue teams work to find survivors trapped under rubble.

Central Lombok Satpol PP Evicts Street Vendors from Pavements and Road Shoulders

The Central Lombok Civil Service Police Unit (Satpol PP) has evicted dozens of street vendors operating on pavements and road shoulders in front of Renteng Market in Praya. The operation, carried out on Wednesday, was based on Regional Regulation No. 6 of 2012 on public order and tranquillity. Officials said the action aims to reorganise vendors into designated areas rather than halt their trading activities.

Bareskrim Partners with Interpol to Repatriate Sheikh Ahmad Al Misry over Sexual Abuse Case

Indonesia's Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim) is working with Interpol to repatriate Sheikh Ahmad Al Misry, a religious figure accused of sexually abusing five male victims, including four minors. A Red Notice has been issued since July 2026, and investigators are coordinating with the Indonesian Embassy in Egypt and the Police International Relations Division. The suspect faces up to 12 years in prison under the Sexual Violence Crime Law.

TNBTS confirms Bromo tourism activities reopen tomorrow

The Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park Agency (TNBTS) has confirmed that tourism activities at Mount Bromo, East Java, will resume on Thursday (20/8) at 00.01 WIB following the successful handling of recent forest and land fires. The reopening follows monitoring and evaluation of post-fire conditions, with safety considerations for visitors and staff. Daily visitor quotas remain unchanged at 2,752 people per day.

Venezuela reaches agreement with US companies on oil and gas

Venezuela has signed a production participation contract with US oil firm Hunt Oil for the Carito Field and a framework agreement with oilfield services company SLB for integrated field exploration. The deals were announced by Hydrocarbons Minister Paula Henao and signed during the IMAGE 2026 conference in Houston. The agreements form part of Venezuela's efforts to attract international investment following partial reform of its hydrocarbons legislation.

Jeep Gladiator fire leads to consumer lawsuit

A couple in Illinois is suing FCA US after their 2022 Jeep Gladiator caught fire while parked, damaging their home. The case has reached federal court and is linked to a major recall of over one million Jeep vehicles due to faulty power steering pump electrical connectors. The lawsuit alleges product liability, negligence, warranty breaches, and consumer fraud.

Great Ideas Alone Are Not Enough: Businesses Must Live by Execution

A digital business academic argues that while innovative ideas attract attention, sustainable success depends on operational execution and management systems. She highlights the need for digital business education to equip students with both technological and managerial skills. The article also promotes Universitas Nusa Mandiri's digital business programme as a response to this industry need.

List of 10 Ministries and Agencies with the Largest Budgets in the 2027 Draft State Budget

The Indonesian government has outlined budget allocations for ministries and agencies in the 2027 Draft State Budget (RAPBN), with most seeing reductions from 2026. The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) remains the largest recipient despite a cut to Rp240.2 trillion, while the Ministry of Defence and education-related ministries recorded increases. The government cited ongoing global economic uncertainty as a key factor shaping the budget.

Investors Swarm Indonesian Government Bonds After 81st Independence Day, Fresh Funds Reach Rp34 Trillion

Indonesia's government bond auction on 18 August 2026 attracted overwhelming investor demand, with total incoming bids reaching Rp84.75 trillion against an indicative target of Rp32 trillion. The Ministry of Finance ultimately awarded Rp34 trillion across nine series, including two new issuances and seven reopenings. The strong bid-to-cover ratios, particularly for long-dated bonds, signal robust investor confidence in Indonesian sovereign debt following the country's 81st Independence Day celebrations.

Hundreds of SMAN 1 Yogyakarta Graduates 'Move' to UGM

A total of 184 graduates from SMAN 1 Yogyakarta have been accepted into Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) this year, representing more than half of the school's graduating class. The figure marks a decline from 203 students last year, as graduates increasingly prioritise specific study programmes over university prestige. Students are now spreading their choices across institutions such as ITB, UI, Undip, Brawijaya, ITS, UB and Unair, with some even opting for universities abroad.

Mirae Asset sees room for domestic market to strengthen in H2

PT Mirae Asset Sekuritas Indonesia expects the domestic market to have room to strengthen in the second half of 2026 as external pressures ease. The firm says investor attention is shifting from global risks to domestic factors such as fiscal credibility, inflation and the quality of economic growth. It also announced a wealth management transformation aimed at a more client-centric approach.

Government Allocates Rp329.5 Trillion for Defence in 2027 State Budget Draft

The Indonesian government has proposed Rp329.5 trillion for the defence function in the 2027 State Budget Draft, an increase of around Rp30 trillion from the 2026 outlook. The allocation is intended to support the modernisation of military equipment, development of the domestic defence industry, and strengthening of cyber and territorial capabilities. The government says the move responds to global geopolitical dynamics and increasingly complex security threats.

Homes Collapse, Ende Residents Survive Under Tarpaulins Five Days After Earthquake

Five days after a magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck Flores, residents in Ende Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, are still living under makeshift tarpaulin shelters due to a shortage of tents. Local police have prioritised food, tarpaulins, and tents for those whose homes were destroyed, with only three tent sets available in the affected areas. Aid packages have been distributed from the regional police chief and President Prabowo Subianto, while trauma healing services are being provided to affected communities.

Artificial Rain Difficult to Produce in Jakarta, Pramono Asks Fire Service to Spray Streets

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has acknowledged that cloud seeding operations cannot currently be carried out due to a lack of clouds in the atmosphere. As an interim measure, the Jakarta Fire and Rescue Service has been deployed to spray water on streets to mitigate the impact of the prolonged dry season. The provincial government remains ready to conduct weather modification as soon as atmospheric conditions permit.

Earthquake Followed by Three "Explosions", Eyewitnesses Saw Tsunami Sweep the Beach

On 19 August 1977, a powerful earthquake struck the Nusa Tenggara region, triggering a devastating tsunami that killed over 180 people and left around 3,900 homeless. Eyewitness accounts describe hearing three loud explosions before the sea receded and a massive wave swept ashore. The disaster, which also reached Australia, remains one of the most significant seismic events in the area's history.

Deputy Coordinating Minister urges South Kalimantan to massively deploy resources to control forest and land fires

Deputy Coordinating Minister for Food Hanif Faisol Nurofiq has called on South Kalimantan Province to intensify the mobilisation of all available resources to tackle forest and land fires amid worsening extreme weather and drought. The appeal followed a strategic coordination meeting in Banjarbaru involving the Forestry Service, the Regional Disaster Management Agency and the forest and land fire task force. Officials stressed that fire control requires integrated efforts from central and regional government, security forces, communities and businesses.

Police detain naked man who went viral for assaulting motorcyclists in Lenteng Agung

A naked man identified as J has been detained by police after a viral video showed him attacking motorcyclists with a wooden board on Jalan Raya Lenteng Agung, South Jakarta. The suspect allegedly struck an online motorcycle taxi driver and other riders, leaving one victim unconscious. Police faced resistance when apprehending him at his home and are now questioning him at Jagakarsa Police Station.

Winner of 10K Race in Dompu Only Receives 3 Glasses, Parent Furious

A parent in Dompu, West Nusa Tenggara, protested after his child won a 10-kilometre race but received only three glass cups instead of the promised cash prize. The incident, which went viral on social media, involved a heated argument with the sub-district head and the throwing of glassware. The sub-district head later admitted a miscommunication among the organising committee and said he used his own money to cover the promised Rp2 million prize.

Police plant garlic on 279.5 hectares, target 2,795 tonnes

The Indonesian National Police have planted garlic across 279.5 hectares in 14 regional police jurisdictions to support the national food security programme. The initiative is projected to yield around 2,795 tonnes by the fourth quarter of 2026. The programme also includes post-harvest storage facilities, agricultural equipment assistance, and seed development aimed at reducing garlic import dependency.

PTT Thailand Returns: After Moratorium Lifted, Indonesian Oil and Gas Investment Targeted Again

Thai energy company PTT has signalled its intention to resume investment in Indonesia's upstream oil and gas sector following the government's decision to lift the investment moratorium. PTT management from both Indonesia and Bangkok visited SKK Migas headquarters to follow up on the plan. The move is seen as a positive sign that foreign investor interest in Indonesia's upstream sector is reviving.

Housing Minister reveals formation of joint team for Qatar investment

Minister of Housing and Settlement Areas Maruarar Sirait has announced the establishment of a joint team to oversee Qatar's planned investment in housing development at Kampung Bandan, Jakarta. The team will involve BPKP, the Ministry of SOEs, PT KAI, BPS, and the Qatari side to ensure proper governance. The collaboration with Qatar's Al Qilaa International Group aims to build one million vertical housing units as part of President Prabowo Subianto's 3 Million Houses programme.

Ojol Throws Molotov at Police Post After Being Fined, Sahroni: Do Not Tolerate Anarchist Individuals

An online motorcycle taxi driver in Surabaya threw a Molotov cocktail at two police posts after allegedly holding a grudge over a traffic fine. House of Representatives Commission III Deputy Chairman Ahmad Sahroni condemned the attack, stating that assaulting officers is a criminal offence that must be prosecuted. He urged the public not to generalise the incident, noting that most ojol drivers obey traffic rules and prioritise passenger safety.

Energy Ministry: Early retirement of coal-fired power plants to be phased

Indonesia's Deputy Energy Minister Yuliot Tanjung has said the early retirement of coal-fired power plants will be carried out in stages, taking into account replacement energy readiness and industrial continuity. The government has identified 15 high-emission plants and is evaluating mechanisms for their retirement. The transition is expected to be supported by the accelerated development of 100 gigawatts of renewable energy capacity.

Police Secure MURI Record for Largest Simultaneous Garlic Planting

The Indonesian National Police (Polri) has secured a MURI record for the largest simultaneous garlic planting, covering 279.53 hectares across 14 regional police commands. The initiative is part of a broader effort to reduce Indonesia's heavy reliance on garlic imports, which currently account for 90 to 95 percent of national consumption. The programme involves collaboration with ministries, local governments, and farmer groups to support President Prabowo Subianto's target of garlic self-sufficiency within three years.

Kortas Tipikor Says Corruption and Money Laundering Arguments in Febrie Case Not for Pretrial

Police anti-corruption investigators have argued that the legal challenges raised by former Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah in his pretrial motion concern substantive evidentiary matters that should be examined in the main trial. The respondents contend that questions about whether assets were proceeds of crime and whether corruption and money laundering elements were met cannot be resolved through pretrial proceedings. They have asked the South Jakarta District Court to reject the relevant parts of Febrie's petition.

Tourist destinations still closed after earthquake in NTT

Several tourist destinations in East Nusa Tenggara remain temporarily closed following a magnitude 7.7 earthquake, as the Ministry of Tourism prioritises visitor safety. Monitoring is being conducted through the Labuan Bajo Flores Tourism Authority, with a hotline established to provide accurate information to tourists and businesses. The earthquake has caused 69 deaths, 331 injuries, and significant damage to homes and infrastructure across the affected regencies.

Tanzanian-Flagged Vessel Carrying 1.6 Tonnes of Liquid Narcotics Seized, 10 Myanmar Nationals Detained

Indonesian authorities have intercepted a Tanzanian-flagged vessel suspected of transporting approximately 1.6 tonnes of liquid methamphetamine in the waters off Bengkalis, Riau. The joint operation involving the National Narcotics Agency, Customs, and Riau Islands Police resulted in the detention of ten Myanmar nationals. Investigations are ongoing to identify the network behind the shipment.

Ministers Gather to Decide Fate of Online Motorcycle Taxis, Here Are the Results

The Indonesian government and the House of Representatives have finalised a draft presidential regulation covering online motorcycle taxis, including passenger transport, goods delivery, and food delivery services. Tariff-setting authority will be split between the Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs for goods and food delivery and the Ministry of Transportation for passenger transport. The regulation is targeted for issuance by the end of August or early September 2026.

Audience with Coordinating Ministry for Infrastructure, Kakorlantas Affirms Commitment to Support Zero ODOL 2027

The National Police Traffic Corps (Korlantas Polri) has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the government's Zero Over Dimension and Over Load (ODOL) policy by 2027. Kakorlantas Polri Inspector General Wibowo stressed that enforcement would be a last resort, with priority given to preventive measures. The policy will be implemented gradually and carefully to avoid disrupting staple goods availability and price stability ahead of Ramadan and Idul Fitri.

Home Affairs Minister inspects post-earthquake handling and recovery in Ende

Home Affairs Minister Muhammad Tito Karnavian has inspected earthquake-affected areas in Ende Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, to evaluate emergency response and recovery needs. He emphasised that evacuating and treating victims, along with restoring basic infrastructure such as electricity, internet, communications and road access, are the top priorities. The government will proceed in stages from emergency response through transition to rehabilitation and reconstruction.

Collecting the Republic's Promise Under the Shade of the Pule Tree

An academic reflects on Indonesia's 81st year of independence, questioning whether the nation has fulfilled its founding promise of prosperity and dignity for all citizens. The article highlights the paradox of resource-rich Indonesia where ordinary people face heavy taxation alongside rampant illegal levies, leaving many struggling on their own land.

Prabowo's Major Overhaul Begins: SOEs to Be Slimmed Down, What Is the Scheme?

The Indonesian government is undertaking a massive restructuring of its state-owned enterprise ecosystem, aiming to reduce 1,074 SOEs and their subsidiaries to around 250 entities by the end of 2026. The consolidation, led by Danantara Asset Management, targets annual operational savings of up to Rp70 trillion. The overhaul has already boosted SOE profits and dividends, with further consolidation planned across investment management, hospitality, logistics, construction, insurance, and other sectors.

Viral Naked Man Rampages and Attacks Motorcyclists in Lenteng Agung, Police and Social Services Intervene

A naked man, believed to be suffering from a mental disorder, went on a rampage and attacked motorcyclists on Jalan Raya Lenteng Agung in South Jakarta, with the incident going viral on social media. The South Jakarta Social Services Sub-department and local police responded to the reports and secured the individual. The man has been taken into custody and is receiving necessary social and medical treatment.

AI Jobs on the Rise, Gen Z Can Earn Up to Rp3.5 Billion a Year

LinkedIn research shows Gen Z and millennial workers are increasingly filling fast-growing AI roles, with some positions offering annual salaries of up to US$236,000. Young workers are benefiting from strong corporate demand for AI skills despite a generally challenging job market. The findings highlight the premium companies place on AI expertise.

Kortas Tipikor Insists Febrie's Travel Ban Was Not Arbitrary

The Corruption Eradication Corps (Kortas Tipikor) of the Indonesian National Police has defended its decision to impose a travel ban on former Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah, arguing it was a lawful investigative measure rather than an arbitrary act. The response was made during a pretrial hearing at the South Jakarta District Court, where Febrie is challenging his suspect status, the travel ban, and related searches and seizures. Kortas Tipikor maintains the ban was justified under the Criminal Procedure Code to prevent the suspect from fleeing abroad.

Housing Minister: Coordination team to map state assets for housing

Minister of Housing and Settlement Areas Maruarar Sirait announced the formation of a coordination team under BP BUMN to identify and coordinate the use of state assets for housing development. The team will focus on utilising state-owned enterprise assets, particularly those belonging to PT KAI, for urban housing projects. Initial projects include a groundbreaking in Manggarai, Jakarta, and potential developments in Bandung and Kampung Bandan involving private and foreign investment.

Open Stage and Massage to Enliven NU Congress, 'Wild Delegations' Also Present

Preparations for the 35th Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) Congress are progressing well, with materials and administrative matters finalised. PBNU chairman KH Ulil Abshar Abdalla expects tens of thousands of attendees, including official delegates and unofficial supporters. The event will feature an open stage and massage services to accommodate the large gathering.

UBSI Introduces Aeration Technology and eQanku App to Tilapia Farmers in Sukabumi

Universitas Bina Sarana Informatika (UBSI) has introduced pond aeration systems and a digital finance application called eQanku to tilapia farmers in Sukabumi, West Java. The programme, funded by the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology, aims to reduce fish mortality and improve business management. The initiative is expected to serve as a model for strengthening food security in the fisheries sector.

Lidi Village on Palue Island, Sikka, Still Isolated Following NTT Earthquake

Lidi Village on Palue Island in Sikka Regency remains completely cut off five days after a magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck Flores, East Nusa Tenggara. Landslides have blocked road access and high waves are preventing rescue teams from reaching the village by sea. The death toll in Sikka has risen to five following the death of a seminarian who had been in critical condition since the quake.

Doctors and Nurses at Ruteng Regional Hospital Exhausted, Several Health Workers Fall Ill

Medical staff at Ruteng Regional Hospital in Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, are suffering from exhaustion and illness as they cope with increased demand following the recent earthquake. The hospital is operating with limited personnel, with one doctor hospitalised and six others working while unwell. The situation highlights the urgent need to strengthen the hospital's capacity to handle surges in demand during disasters.

Bareskrim Reveals Obstacles in Repatriating Sheikh Ahmad Al Misry to Indonesia

Indonesia's Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim) has disclosed the main hurdles in extraditing Sheikh Ahmad Al Misry, a suspect in a sexual abuse case involving his students, from Egypt. The lack of an extradition treaty between Indonesia and Egypt, along with complications over his dual citizenship status, are the primary obstacles. Police are currently coordinating with the Egyptian Embassy and Interpol to secure his return.

Bareskrim Uncovers Alleged Sexual Abuse by Sheikh Ahmad Al Misry, 5 Students Victims

Indonesia's Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim) has revealed that religious figure Sheikh Ahmad Al Misry is suspected of sexually abusing five male students, four of whom were minors, between 2017 and 2025. The suspect allegedly used his position as a religious teacher to groom victims with promises of education in Egypt. Al Misry has been named a suspect since July 2026 and is believed to be in Egypt, with Interpol red notice issued for his arrest.

Flores Earthquake Victims to Receive Rp15 Million Compensation per Person

The Ministry of Social Affairs has allocated Rp14.65 billion in emergency aid for victims of the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. The support includes compensation of Rp15 million for each of the 70 deceased victims and Rp5 million for each of the 199 seriously injured. The ministry will also provide psychosocial support and continue with recovery and empowerment programmes after the emergency phase.

Connectivity Back to Normal, TelkomGroup Completes Infrastructure Repairs After NTT Earthquake

TelkomGroup has fully restored telecommunications and digital services in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) three days after the earthquake, with all services now operating normally. The company is continuing humanitarian aid distribution across five affected areas, including Nagekeo, Reo, Ruteng, Maumere, and Bima. The rapid recovery was supported by network redundancy and satellite connectivity at 17 locations.

Police ask judge to reject Febrie Adriansyah's pre-trial motion over seizure

Indonesian police have formally requested the South Jakarta District Court to dismiss a pre-trial motion filed by former Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah challenging the legality of asset seizures. Police argue the motion improperly delves into the merits of the underlying corruption case rather than focusing on procedural legality. The case stems from searches and seizures conducted at a family residence in Bogor in July 2026.

Apkasindo provides digital access to palm oil prices for farmers

The Indonesian Palm Oil Farmers Association (Apkasindo) has launched a digital platform to give independent smallholders transparent access to fresh fruit bunch and crude palm oil prices. The initiative, supported by the BPDP fund, aims to strengthen farmers' bargaining power and reduce price disparities across regions. The government sees the platform as a positive step aligned with the modernisation of the plantation sector.

Interpol Red Notice issued, Indonesian Police seek repatriation of Sheikh Ahmad Al Misry

Indonesian police are working with Interpol to repatriate Sheikh Ahmad Al Misry, a suspect in the alleged sexual abuse of five male victims, after a Red Notice was issued in July 2026. The effort is complicated by the absence of an extradition treaty between Indonesia and Egypt, and investigators are also examining the suspect's citizenship status. The case involves allegations spanning multiple Indonesian cities and Egypt between 2017 and 2025.

Police Plant Garlic Simultaneously in 14 Regional Commands, Potential Harvest Reaches 2,795 Tonnes

The Indonesian National Police (Polri) has launched a simultaneous garlic planting programme across 14 regional police commands to support President Prabowo Subianto's food self-sufficiency agenda. The initiative covers 279.5 hectares of land involving 110 farmer groups and 2,174 farmers, with an estimated potential harvest of 2,795 tonnes. Polri has been allocated a target of 4,840 hectares by the Ministry of Agriculture, of which 2,593.1 hectares have been verified so far.

BI: Creative Financing Helps Regions Maintain Economic Growth

Bank Indonesia's East Java representative has urged regional governments to adopt creative financing schemes to sustain economic growth amid rising investment needs and constrained fiscal space. The central bank highlighted East Java's 5.65 percent growth and the strategic role of investment, which contributes nearly 30 percent to the province's GRDP. The Ministry of Home Affairs cautioned that such financing must be pursued prudently with sound governance and project readiness.

Tehran accuses US of 'strangling' Iran to force war concessions

Iran's Parliament Speaker Mohammed Bagher Ghalibaf has accused the United States of attempting to strangle Iran economically in order to extract concessions that were never part of the agreement signed between Washington and Tehran. Ghalibaf also mocked senior US officials, urging them to stop waiting for a 'clown crew' to produce results and to clean up the mess they created. The remarks come after a June memorandum of understanding between the two sides, brokered by Pakistan and Qatar, stalled amid disputes over its terms and shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.

Indonesian Navy foils 14-kg marijuana smuggling from PNG

The Indonesian Navy intercepted a 14-kilogram marijuana shipment after smugglers from Papua New Guinea discarded the drugs into the sea during a pursuit near Skouw Sae waters. Seven PNG nationals fled back across the border, exploiting a speed advantage over the naval patrol boat. Regional Command X has since deployed a faster rigid buoyancy boat with twin 300-horsepower engines to strengthen border patrols and deter future smuggling attempts.

12 Flights Affected by Forest and Land Fire Smoke in Banjarbaru, South Kalimantan

Thick smoke from forest and land fires in Banjarbaru, South Kalimantan, disrupted operations at Syamsudin Noor International Airport in Banjarmasin, delaying four arrivals and eight departures. The airport's general manager confirmed that all affected flights have since taken off. Passengers have been advised to arrive earlier than usual and to take health precautions due to the ongoing haze.

Former National Climbing Coach Named Suspect in Sexual Violence Case

Indonesian police have named HB, a former head coach of the national sport climbing team, as a suspect in the alleged sexual abuse of five female athletes. The abuse reportedly occurred between 2022 and December 2025, both in Bekasi and during international competitions. The case has been transferred to the Bekasi District Prosecutor's Office and is now before the courts.

Indonesia boosts fire response as El Nino raises risks

Indonesia is intensifying its forest and land fire response through coordinated ground and aerial operations, including weather modification and water-bombing missions. The Forestry Ministry and BNPB have conducted 17 mitigation operations over 169 days and deployed dozens of aircraft in fire-prone provinces. Officials stress that cross-agency collaboration is essential to reduce environmental and community impacts from fires.

Pertamina Supports Boyolali Farmers to Recover and Prosper, Turning Drought into Hope

Pertamina has helped farmers in Sobokerto, Boyolali, transform previously unproductive dry-season land into productive farmland through its Desa Energi Berdikari programme. The initiative includes building wells, solar power plants, and providing agricultural infrastructure, increasing cultivable land from 20% to 90% during the dry season. The programme also supports livestock farming and environmental conservation around Cengklik Reservoir.

Fuzhou develops jasmine tea tourism to boost cultural consumption

Fuzhou is leveraging its traditional jasmine tea heritage, recognised as national intangible cultural heritage, to drive growth in cultural and tourism consumption. Local businesses are creating innovative jasmine tea-inspired products while the city promotes tea brands and integrates tea culture with tourism.

Health Ministry sets up field hospitals in Ruteng-Aeramo in response to NTT earthquake

Indonesia's Health Ministry has established two field hospitals in Manggarai and Nagekeo regencies to maintain medical services following the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. The rapid deployment was coordinated through the Health Emergency Operation Center after both regional hospitals sustained damage. Emergency medical teams have also delivered priority logistics including vaccines, masks, and medical supplies.

Unitree Robotics makes a splash on Shanghai bourse, shares surge 600 percent on debut

Chinese robotics pioneer Unitree saw its shares surge more than 600 percent on their Shanghai debut on 19 August, after raising over 900 million US dollars through an initial public offering. The dramatic first-day performance underscores strong investor appetite for embodied intelligence and robotics technology. The listing marks a significant milestone for the company and the broader Chinese robotics sector.

Israel Officially Withdraws Support for Gianni Infantino to Lead FIFA

The Israel Football Association has formally withdrawn its endorsement of FIFA President Gianni Infantino ahead of the upcoming presidential election. The move follows similar decisions by several European football associations amid growing discontent over Infantino's commercial initiatives, including plans to involve private investors in the World Cup. The IFA cited a deepening crisis of trust and fundamental divisions over the governance of world football.

Iran Denies Launching Ballistic Missiles at UAE, So Who Did?

Iran has rejected accusations from the United Arab Emirates that it fired two ballistic missiles towards the Gulf state, calling the claims damaging to regional trust. The UAE defence ministry said both missiles landed in the sea, with one falling inside its territorial waters, and has suspended all trade and financial transactions with Iran in response.

Digital Connectivity Fully Restored, TelkomGroup After NTT Earthquake

TelkomGroup has fully restored all telecommunications and digital services in East Nusa Tenggara within three days of the earthquake. The company is now focusing on strengthening services and distributing humanitarian aid across five affected regions. Recovery efforts were supported by network redundancy and satellite connectivity in hard-to-reach areas.

Gold Price Today 19 August 2026: Antam Products Slump, Global Mixed

The price of gold produced by PT Aneka Tambang Tbk (Antam) fell by Rp 50,000 to Rp 2,645,000 per gram on 19 August 2026. Buyback prices were set at Rp 2,505,000 per gram. Global gold prices were mixed as investors awaited the release of Federal Reserve meeting minutes.

Agung Widyantoro Replaces Hetifah Sjaifudian as Chair of House Commission X

Agung Widyantoro has been appointed as the new Chair of Commission X of the Indonesian House of Representatives, replacing Hetifah Sjaifudian following a decision by the Golkar Party faction. The change was formalised during a plenary meeting at the parliament complex in Jakarta on 19 August 2026. Commission X oversees education, culture, research, technology, sport, tourism, youth, libraries and the statistics agency.

Charlie Chaplin Statue Cancelled Near Denpasar Heritage Area

The Denpasar city government has cancelled plans to install a statue of legendary British comedian Charlie Chaplin near the city's heritage zone. The decision follows public debate and concerns over copyright and royalty issues, as well as questions about the appropriate authority for the project. Officials now suggest the hotel itself should fund and manage any such installation on its private land.

Claiming Economy Is Resilient, This Country Sacks Economist Who Warned of Crisis

Russia has dismissed a prominent state development bank economist after he warned that the prolonged war in Ukraine could trigger a major social crisis. The sacking of Andrei Klepach, former chief economist at VEB, underscores the Kremlin's sensitivity to internal criticism of its economic trajectory. Officials maintain that Russia's fiscal position remains strong, while independent analysts argue the wartime economy masks deepening structural problems.

Petrokimia Gresik Boosts Cayenne Pepper Productivity, Harvest Up 15 Percent

State-owned fertiliser producer PT Petrokimia Gresik has reported a 13–15 percent increase in cayenne pepper yields through its 'Pestani Rawit Groo Festival' programme in East Java. The initiative involved 270 farmers across five regencies and achieved harvests of 11.5 tonnes per hectare, up from 10 tonnes previously. The company says the programme supports national food security, given that East Java accounts for around 35 percent of Indonesia's cayenne pepper production.

GMF hands over modernised C-130H A-1319 aircraft to Ministry of Defence

PT Garuda Maintenance Facility Aero Asia Tbk (GMF) has delivered a modernised C-130H A-1319 aircraft to Indonesia's Ministry of Defence after completing a major upgrade programme. The project, which included centre wing box replacement and avionics upgrades, is expected to extend the aircraft's operational life by 15 to 20 years. Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin said the handover marks a new chapter in building defence capability in line with strengthening the national aerospace industry.

NILAGIRI Officially Opens at Vila Riung Gunung Puncak, Bobobox's Expansion into the Culinary World

Bobobox has launched NILAGIRI, a restaurant at the historic Vila Riung Gunung in Puncak, marking its first venture into the food and beverage sector through its Boboeatery line. The opening was attended by Indonesia's Minister of Culture, Fadli Zon, who praised the restoration of the Soekarno-era building for public use. The restaurant aims to blend Indonesian culinary heritage with the villa's historical significance and natural surroundings.

Coordinating Minister Yusril Allows PT Timah to Buy Tin from the Public

The Indonesian government has approved a temporary measure allowing state-owned PT Timah to purchase tin from local communities in Bangka Belitung to address urgent conditions in the region. The decision was reached during a ministerial-level meeting led by Coordinating Minister Yusril Ihza Mahendra and will remain in place until a dedicated presidential regulation on tin governance is issued. The government is also preparing a broader regulatory framework to prevent smuggling and strengthen Indonesia's position as a major global tin producer.

Indonesia calls for collective action on climate change at BRICS forum

Indonesia has urged developed nations to honour their collective responsibility on climate change, criticising those that withdraw from commitments despite being the largest emitters. At the BRICS Environment Ministers' Meeting in New Delhi, Deputy Minister Hidayat highlighted Indonesia's National Adaptation Plan and traditional practices such as Subak, Sasi Lompa, and Awig-Awig as models for community-based climate resilience. He stressed that ecosystem protection and inclusive global environmental governance are essential for archipelagic nations facing sea-level rise and extreme weather.

National Police Chief Leads Simultaneous Garlic Planting, Affirms Commitment to Food Self-Sufficiency

National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo led a simultaneous garlic planting event in Sembalun, East Lombok, as part of the government's food self-sufficiency programme. The initiative involves 2,593.1 hectares of verified land across 17 regional police commands, with 927.6 hectares already planted and a projected yield of 9,276 tonnes. The programme also set a MURI record for the largest simultaneous garlic planting, covering 279.53 hectares across 59 district police jurisdictions.

Thousands of Books Bought and Destroyed Daily to Train AI Sparks Outrage

Second-hand bookshops in the UK are reporting bulk purchases of thousands of books in a single day, believed to be destined for destructive scanning to train artificial intelligence models. The practice has emerged as a cheaper legal workaround after court rulings suggested AI firms can use copyrighted works if they purchase the physical copies. The phenomenon has raised concerns about the destruction of books, including rare editions, for AI training purposes.

Jumhur: Large Nations Must Not Retreat from Environmental Responsibility

Indonesian Environment Minister Jumhur Hidayat has urged major economies not to abandon their collective responsibility in tackling pollution and climate change. Speaking at the BRICS environment ministers' meeting in New Delhi, he highlighted Indonesia's vulnerability to climate impacts and presented traditional community-based practices as effective tools for adaptation. He also outlined Indonesia's National Adaptation Plan 2026-2030 as a key pillar of sustainable development.

House Commission V Holds Meeting with Transport Minister and Basarnas Chief, Highlights Recent Ship Accidents

House of Representatives Commission V convened with the Minister of Transportation, the Head of Basarnas, the Head of BMKG, and the Head of KNKT to address a series of recent ship accidents. Commission Chairman Lasarus expressed condolences for the victims and urged the government to ensure compensation reaches the affected families. The meeting also called for accountability and support for injured victims still recovering in hospital.

UN Finds Tonnes of Nuclear Material in Syria, Assad's Legacy?

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has discovered several tonnes of nuclear material at multiple sites in Syria, including one reported by the new Syrian government. The announcement comes amid pledges from Damascus to cooperate fully with the UN watchdog and place all nuclear material under international safeguards. The discovery raises questions about the extent of the undeclared nuclear programme pursued under former President Bashar al-Assad.

Hubble Telescope Finds Evidence of Ancient Collision That Shaped the Milky Way

Astronomers using the Hubble Space Telescope have uncovered evidence that the Milky Way underwent a major merger with a dwarf galaxy around 11.8 billion years ago. The study identifies a population of globular clusters originating from a galaxy dubbed LKH, which contributed significantly to the Milky Way's early mass. The findings, published in Nature Astronomy, suggest that stars born in external galaxies must be considered when reconstructing the Milky Way's evolutionary history.

Indonesia seizes 2.6 tons of liquid meth from Tanzanian vessel

Indonesian authorities have intercepted a Tanzanian-flagged vessel in the Riau Islands and seized 2.6 tonnes of liquid methamphetamine, along with a container of untaxed cigarettes suspected to originate from China. Ten Myanmar nationals were detained as part of a joint operation involving the National Narcotics Agency, Customs, and regional police. The case highlights ongoing efforts to dismantle transnational drug smuggling networks operating through Indonesian waters.

People's Banquet for Indonesia's 81st Independence Day in Duren Sawit becomes space to boost MSMEs

A People's Banquet held to mark Indonesia's 81st Independence Day in Duren Sawit, East Jakarta, provided a platform for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to thrive. The event, ordered by President Prabowo Subianto, offered free food, basic necessities, competitions, and entertainment, drawing an estimated 2,000 to 3,000 residents. Local officials said the initiative aimed to create direct interaction between the community and MSME operators while celebrating independence.

US sanctions two ICC officials over alleged abuse of authority

The United States has imposed sanctions on International Criminal Court President Tomoko Akane and Senior Trial Lawyer Abdoulaye Seye, accusing them of direct involvement in the court's efforts to investigate and prosecute officials from countries that do not recognise its jurisdiction. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the move is part of a broader campaign against what Washington views as the ICC's overreach and threat to national sovereignty. The sanctions follow an executive order signed by President Donald Trump in February 2025 targeting the court over its actions concerning the US and its allies, including Israel.

Police probe alleged abduction of nine women in Central Papua

Police in Mimika, Central Papua, are investigating reports that nine women were abducted by an armed group in Jila Subdistrict on Tuesday. Authorities have yet to identify the victims or obtain direct testimony from witnesses, and are still verifying residents' accounts. The incident adds to ongoing security concerns in Papua's remote highland areas.

Viral Naked Man Rampages and Attacks Motorcyclists in Lenteng Agung

A naked man went on a rampage in Lenteng Agung, South Jakarta, attacking several motorcyclists with a piece of plywood. The incident, which was captured on video and widely shared on social media, left at least one ride-hailing driver unconscious. Police and the South Jakarta Social Agency sub-department have since detained the man, who is suspected of having a mental health disorder.

Pegadaian Distributes Emergency Aid in Rapid Response to NTT Earthquake

State-owned pawnshop company Pegadaian has distributed emergency relief supplies to communities affected by the 7.7-magnitude earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. The assistance, delivered through its 'Pegadaian Peduli' corporate social responsibility programme, includes food, clean water, baby supplies, medicines, sanitation equipment, and temporary shelter. The company is also assessing affected customers and operational facilities while coordinating with disaster agencies for further recovery support.

South Sulawesi sends 30 tons of aid to quake-hit NTT

South Sulawesi has dispatched 30 tons of humanitarian aid, including hundreds of kilograms of medicine, to earthquake-affected areas in East Nusa Tenggara. The supplies were transported by an Indonesian Air Force Hercules aircraft from Sultan Hasanuddin Air Base, with deliveries planned to Labuan Bajo and Maumere. Provincial authorities expressed gratitude to military, police, and corporate partners, and indicated that further aid would be distributed gradually.

Syekh Ahmad Al Misry Suspected of Sexually Abusing 5 Students, Modus Promising School in Egypt

Indonesian police are pursuing Syekh Ahmad Al Misry, a religious teacher suspected of sexually abusing five male students, four of whom were minors, between 2017 and 2025. The suspect allegedly used his influence as a Quran teacher and promises of facilitating education in Egypt to exploit his victims. He has been placed on the wanted list and an Interpol red notice has been issued.

Purbaya Ready to Formulate Jewellery Tax with DJBC, Here Are the Details

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has announced plans to discuss export tax policies on jewellery of certain weights with the Directorate General of Customs and Excise. The move follows suspicions that exporters are exploiting regulatory loopholes by declaring gold as jewellery to avoid export duties on gold bullion. The government also suspects some smuggled gold originates from illegal mining activities.

Indonesia to probe supply chains, funders in gold smuggling crackdown

Indonesian authorities are expanding their crackdown on illegal gold exports by targeting the financial backers behind smuggling operations and auditing mining permits. The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources says investigators will scrutinise the legality of mining business permits and pursue criminal penalties under the 2020 Mining Law. The move follows a series of interceptions at Soekarno-Hatta Airport, with 32 illegal gold export attempts worth around $47 million disrupted between January and August 2026.

Golkar reshuffles DPR commission leadership, Hetifah and Bambang replaced

The Golkar Party faction in Indonesia's House of Representatives (DPR) has rotated several commission and parliamentary body leadership positions, including the chairs of Commission X and Commission XII. The reshuffle, confirmed by faction chairman M. Sarmuji, also affects deputy chair positions and the faction secretary role. The changes follow Sari Yuliati's appointment as Deputy Speaker of the DPR, replacing Adies Kadir who became a Constitutional Court justice.

Seven UBSI Students Secure International Internship Programme in Malaysia

Seven students from Universitas Bina Sarana Informatika (UBSI) Kaliabang have been selected for a six-month international internship at Holiday Inn Sepang, Malaysia, beginning September 2026. The programme aims to develop technical skills, professional communication, and cross-cultural adaptability in the global hospitality industry. University officials expressed pride in the achievement and highlighted the initiative as part of UBSI's commitment to expanding international exposure for its students.

BRI Mantri Brings Banking Services to the North Maluku Islands

BRI field officer Wiranto Jumran serves hundreds of borrowers across 34 villages on seven islands in North Maluku, using the floating Teras BRI Kapal Bahtera Seva II to reach remote coastal communities. Despite challenging sea conditions, he continues to provide savings, loan, and financial services to fishermen, farmers, and small traders. BRI's corporate secretary says this reflects the bank's commitment to equal access to financial services in geographically challenging areas.

DJPI Accelerates Trademark and Industrial Design Examination

The Directorate General of Intellectual Property (DJKI) is expediting the examination process for trademark and industrial design applications in Indonesia. The initiative aims to reduce backlogs and improve the efficiency of intellectual property registration. This move is expected to benefit businesses and innovators seeking legal protection for their brands and designs.

Indonesia's Debt to the US Soars, Widening Gap with China

Indonesia's external debt to the United States surged by US$1.53 billion in June 2026, while borrowing from China rose only marginally, widening the gap between the two creditors. The increase was driven mainly by private sector borrowing, with the US now firmly established as Indonesia's second-largest creditor after Singapore. Overall external debt reached a record US$453.37 billion, boosted by a sharp rise in Bank Indonesia's liabilities linked to foreign holdings of rupiah securities.

Final Day of Search for 4 KMP Putri Yasmin Victims, Team Combs Small Islands

The search for four missing victims of the KMP Putri Yasmin ferry fire has entered its final day, with a joint SAR team focusing on small islands around Sekotong waters in West Lombok. The operation has lasted a week without any sign of the missing individuals. Search efforts have been expanded to thousands of square nautical miles, including areas south of Java, though rough seas have prevented searching in the southern waters.

Health Ministry Prepares Field Hospital in Manggarai, NTT for Earthquake Victims

Indonesia's Ministry of Health is accelerating the construction of a field hospital in Manggarai, East Nusa Tenggara, to provide medical services and surgical capacity for earthquake victims. The facility, set up at Golo Dukal Stadium, will support the affected Ruteng Regional Hospital and is planned to be replicated in Nagekeo. The earthquake has so far claimed 70 lives and injured 132 people.

NTT Law Ministry stresses digitalisation for impactful legal services

The East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) Regional Office of the Ministry of Law has emphasised the importance of digitalisation in delivering fast, accessible and impactful legal services during the 2026 Hari Pengayoman commemoration. Regional offices are being urged to act as problem solvers rather than mere intermediaries between the central government and the public. The ministry also called for solidarity with communities in Flores affected by recent earthquakes.

Agung Widyantoro officially leads House Commission X, replacing Hetifah

Agung Widyantoro has been appointed as the new chairman of House of Representatives Commission X, replacing Hetifah Sjaifudian following a decision by the Golkar Party faction. The change was formalised during a plenary meeting at the parliament complex in Senayan, Jakarta, with Deputy Speaker Cucun Ahmad Syamsurijal confirming the appointment. Commission X oversees education, culture, research, technology, sports, tourism, youth, libraries, and the statistics agency.

Rupiah Opens Slightly Stronger, But Predicted to Weaken Ahead of BI Rate Decision

The rupiah opened marginally stronger against the US dollar on Wednesday, 19 August 2026, ahead of Bank Indonesia's Board of Governors meeting. Analysts expect the central bank to hold its benchmark rate at 5.75 percent, while caution over the decision is likely to keep the currency under pressure during the day.

Kortas Tipikor Claims More Than Two Pieces of Evidence in Febrie Case

The Corruption Eradication Corps (Kortas Tipikor) of the Indonesian National Police has asserted that the naming of former Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes (Jampidsus) Febrie Adriansyah as a suspect meets the minimum evidentiary requirements. During a pretrial hearing at the South Jakarta District Court, investigators claimed to have gathered more than two pieces of valid evidence, including witness testimony, expert statements, and documentary evidence. The case relates to alleged corruption and money laundering in the handling of the PT ASABRI and PT Asuransi Jiwasraya cases between 2020 and 2025.

Viral Housewife in Nightgown Catches Rainbow Snake in Boyolali, Here's the Story

A housewife in Boyolali has gone viral after calmly catching a rainbow snake in a drain while neighbours panicked. Indah Sulistyowati was asked to help after residents spotted the snake during a community clean-up ahead of Independence Day celebrations. The snake, identified as a non-venomous rainbow snake, measured around half a metre.

BNN and Customs Synergy Foils Smuggling of 2.6 Tonnes of Liquid Meth in Riau

A joint operation by Indonesia's National Narcotics Agency (BNN), Customs and Excise, and Riau Islands Police intercepted a major drug smuggling attempt at sea, seizing 2.6 tonnes of liquid methamphetamine. The vessel MV Ocean Porter was stopped in Tanjung Parit waters, Bengkalis, on 17 August 2026. The seizure has been hailed as a significant achievement in the country's fight against narcotics, particularly during the 81st Independence Day celebrations.

UAE Halts All Trade and Financial Transactions with Iran

The United Arab Emirates has suspended all trade, commercial relations, and financial transactions with Iran, citing regional escalation and the launch of two ballistic missiles towards its territory. The UAE defence ministry confirmed the missiles fell into the sea, with no casualties or damage reported. Abu Dhabi reiterated its commitment to regional dialogue and the integrity of the international financial system.

YABN Produces Young Entrepreneurs Through Rocket Acceleration 2026 Scholarship Programme

Yayasan Amanah Bangun Negeri (YABN) has graduated 24 young entrepreneurs from its Rocket Acceleration 2026 scholarship programme, run in partnership with Sandination Academy and Lambung Mangkurat University. The initiative, supported by Adaro, aims to develop sustainable, independent businesses that create jobs and wider social impact. Eleven top participants received awards and will progress to an acceleration stage.

US and Canada Agree to Suspend Trade Tariffs

The United States and Canada have reached a last-minute agreement to suspend a 50% tariff on Canadian goods worth approximately $20.2 billion. The suspension, announced by President Donald Trump and confirmed by Prime Minister Mark Carney, runs until 22 August. The deal is linked to Trump's push to revive the Keystone XL pipeline project.

Profile of Sarjito, Sole Candidate for OJK Chief Overseeing Mineral Exchange

Sarjito has been announced as the sole candidate for Chief Executive of the Mineral and Strategic Commodities Exchange (BMKS) and concurrently a member of the OJK Board of Commissioners. The House of Representatives has tasked Commission XI with conducting the fit and proper test. The BMKS is targeted to begin operations on 1 January 2027 under OJK supervision.

Jembrana Fisherman Arrested in Kedonganan for Hiding Methamphetamine in Spirit Level

A fisherman from Melaya, Jembrana, Bali, was arrested by Bali Police's Directorate of Water and Air Police for possession of methamphetamine. Police seized 14 packages of the drug, weighing 7.5 grams in total, some of which were hidden inside a spirit level hanging on the wall. The suspect faces up to 20 years in prison under Indonesia's narcotics law.

Telkom Confirms Digital Connectivity in NTT 100% Restored After Earthquake

PT Telkom Indonesia has announced that telecommunications and digital connectivity services in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) have been fully restored following a recent earthquake. The state-owned operator completed infrastructure repairs within three days, supported by network redundancy and satellite connectivity. TelkomGroup is also continuing humanitarian assistance across five affected areas.

Student Dies on Slippery Road, Kramat Jati Roadside Traders to Be Relocated

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has ordered the cleanup of Jalan Raya Bogor in Kramat Jati after a slippery road surface caused a fatal accident that killed a student. East Jakarta authorities will ban traders from using the road and require fish sellers to collect wastewater. A longer-term plan will move roadside traders into the Pasar Kramat Jati market area.

Sharia Gold ETF Opens Investment Access Starting from 0.1 Milligrams

A new sharia-compliant gold exchange-traded fund (ETF) has been launched on the Indonesia Stock Exchange, allowing investors to gain exposure to gold starting from just 0.1 milligrams. The product, managed by PT Indo Premier Investment Management, aims to remove the capital barrier that has traditionally prevented small investors from owning gold. It is backed by physical gold certified to LBMA or SNI standards and operates under DSN-MUI sharia fatwa.

Indonesia Air Force deploys 6 aircraft for NTT earthquake relief

The Indonesian Air Force has mobilised six transport aircraft to deliver humanitarian aid to East Nusa Tenggara following a 7.7-magnitude earthquake. The deployment includes C-130J Super Hercules, C-130 Hercules, Airbus A400M, and Boeing 737 aircraft carrying tens of tonnes of relief supplies to Labuan Bajo and Maumere. The disaster has claimed 70 lives and injured 1,182 people, with the aircraft remaining on standby for further relief operations.

New Republic Established Near Jakarta Immediately Severs Ties with Indonesia

In October 1945, a political upheaval in Tangerang led to the formation of a breakaway 'Republic of Tangerang' that declared independence from the newly proclaimed Republic of Indonesia. The movement, led by Ahmad Khaerun, seized local government but failed to maintain order, prompting the military to restore central authority in January 1946.

Palace Speaks Out on Photo of Prabowo Flying in the Sky During 81st Independence Day Ceremony

State Secretary Minister Prasetyo Hadi has explained that the display of President Prabowo Subianto's photo in the sky during the 81st Independence Day celebrations was a gesture of gratitude from TNI personnel. He credited Prabowo with significantly strengthening Indonesia's defence equipment, including the arrival of Rafale jets and A400 aircraft. The minister also highlighted the practical benefits of this military hardware for disaster logistics across the archipelago.

Envision Energy Inaugurates National Distribution Centre in the Philippines, Enhancing Supply Chain and Services in Southeast Asia

Envision Energy has opened a national distribution centre in Batangas, Philippines, to strengthen its local supply chain and service capabilities. The 1,500 square metre facility will store key wind turbine components and spare parts, reducing delivery times and operational risks for the company's wind power projects. The move underscores Envision's long-term commitment to supporting the renewable energy transition in the Philippines and the wider Southeast Asian region.

Nickel entrepreneur to face trial soon in bribery case involving former Ombudsman chairman

The Jakarta Corruption Court has scheduled the first hearing for Laode Sinarwan Oda, a director of PT Toshida Indonesia, in a bribery case linked to nickel mining governance. He is accused of paying Rp675 million to influence a former Ombudsman member to manipulate official findings on forestry fees and mining permits. The case highlights alleged corruption in the oversight of Indonesia's nickel sector.

Independence from Disaster Vulnerability

Following a magnitude 7.7 earthquake off Flores that killed at least 47 people, this analysis examines whether artificial intelligence can help Indonesia reduce its vulnerability to natural disasters. The author argues that while AI cannot predict earthquakes, it can accelerate warnings, improve risk mapping, and support damage assessment, and calls for Indonesia to develop its own AI systems rather than remain a passive user of foreign technology.

Johor dumping: NEA issues advisory to construction waste facilities, says waste cannot be exported for disposal

Singapore's National Environment Agency has issued an advisory to licensed waste facilities, reiterating that construction and demolition waste cannot be exported for disposal, amid allegations of illegal dumping in Johor. The agency is working with Malaysian authorities to investigate the matter, though it has not yet been established whether any Singapore companies were involved. Nine Malaysia-registered firms are under investigation for allegedly transporting and illegally dumping the waste near villages in Pontian.

Police Corruption Corps Deems Febrie Adriansyah's Pretrial Motion Misdirected

The National Police's Corruption Eradication Corps (Kortas Tipikor) has argued that the pretrial motion filed by former Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah is misdirected. The respondents contend that the issues raised concern material evidentiary matters that should be examined in the main case, not in a pretrial hearing. They have requested the judge to reject the motion.

Differences Between KKI and Visa-MasterCard Credit Cards, Bank Indonesia Explains

Bank Indonesia and the Indonesian Payment System Association have launched the Kartu Kredit Indonesia (KKI), a domestically processed credit card alternative to international schemes such as Visa and MasterCard. The KKI initially operates through the QRIS ecosystem and is issued by eight major banks, including BCA, Mandiri, BNI, BRI, CIMB Niaga, Permata, Bank Mega, and BSI. Bank Indonesia says the new instrument will coexist with international credit cards and will be developed gradually to support online and offline transactions.

BI: Creative financing helps regions maintain economic growth

Bank Indonesia's East Java representative has highlighted creative financing schemes as a way for regional governments to sustain economic growth amid rising investment needs. The schemes include regional loans, public-private partnerships, regional bonds and sukuk, and blended finance. Officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs, Bappenas, and the Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs also stressed the need for prudent implementation and strengthened regional capacity.

NASA's LRO Captures Crater from Falcon 9 Rocket Impact on the Moon

NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter has photographed a new crater formed by the impact of a Falcon 9 upper stage on the lunar surface. The images reveal an 18-metre-wide crater with a distinctive V-shaped ejecta pattern, providing rare scientific data on high-velocity impacts. Researchers say the findings offer valuable insights into subsurface material behaviour and future lunar exploration risks.

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Says Government Has Sent 253 Tonnes of Logistical Aid to NTT

The Indonesian government has dispatched 253 tonnes of relief supplies to disaster-affected areas in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) by the fifth day of the emergency response. Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya said President Prabowo Subianto has ordered officials to accelerate distribution, with five aircraft departing Halim Perdanakusuma Air Base carrying 65 tonnes of supplies. Two main command posts in Labuan Bajo and Maumere are coordinating distribution via air, sea and land routes.

Palace Confirms Prabowo's NTT Visit Is Being Planned and Requires Thorough Preparation

The Presidential Palace has confirmed that a visit by President Prabowo Subianto to earthquake victims in East Nusa Tenggara is being planned but requires careful preparation. State Secretary Minister Prasetyo Hadi said the government is prioritising disaster response on the ground before finalising the president's schedule. Several ministers and agencies, including Basarnas and BNPB, are already coordinating relief efforts in the affected areas.

Ojol Whose Motorcycle Was Damaged by Alphard Driver in South Jakarta Given New Vehicle

A dispute between an online motorcycle taxi driver and an Alphard driver in Pesanggrahan, South Jakarta, has been resolved peacefully through mediation. The victim, Mulyadi, has forgiven the perpetrator and received a new motorcycle from politicians Uya Kuya and Putri Zulkifli Hasan. Police confirmed the case is now closed.

Officers secure naked man on Lenteng Agung Road, South Jakarta

Police and the South Jakarta Social Service Sub-department have detained a naked man on Jalan Raya Lenteng Agung, Jagakarsa, suspected of having a mental disorder. The man was reportedly attacking road users before being secured at around 1 a.m. local time. The case came to light after a video of the incident went viral on social media.

Three Smuggling Attempts Foiled, State Secures 48.6 Kg of Gold

Indonesian authorities have thwarted three separate gold smuggling operations within a week, seizing approximately 48.6 kilograms of gold. The cases involved foreign nationals from China and India attempting to transport gold out of the country through Soekarno-Hatta Airport and illegal mining networks. The seizures, valued at over Rp100 billion, highlight ongoing efforts by customs and police to combat illicit gold trafficking.

13 Climbers Caught Picking Edelweiss Flowers and Littering on Mount Tambora

Thirteen climbers on Mount Tambora in West Nusa Tenggara have been sanctioned for picking edelweiss flowers and leaving litter on the summit. A joint patrol involving police, military, forest rangers and national park officials caught the offenders during the peak climbing season. They received written warnings and a one-year ban from climbing the mountain.

From 18 August, DJKI Targets Trademark and Industrial Design Registration to Be Completed in Five Months

The Directorate General of Intellectual Property (DJKI) at the Ministry of Law is accelerating the examination of trademark and industrial design applications to five months, starting with applications filed from 18 August 2026. The move aims to provide faster legal certainty for businesses and improve the competitiveness of Indonesia's intellectual property system. The director general said the acceleration will be accompanied by careful and accountable examination.

Bank Indonesia Projected to Hold Benchmark Interest Rate, Here Are the Considerations

Bank Indonesia is expected to keep its benchmark BI-Rate at 5.75 percent at its August 2026 Board of Governors meeting, supported by easing inflation and improved capital inflows. Analysts from Permata Bank and LPEM FEB UI cite moderating US rate expectations and a firmer rupiah as key factors. They caution, however, that El Niño-driven inflation and global uncertainties could still alter the outlook later in the year.

Gold prices for three brands at Pegadaian fall in unison on Wednesday

Gold prices for Galeri24, Antam, and UBS at Pegadaian all declined on Wednesday compared with the previous day. The three brands were quoted at Rp2,645,000, Rp2,685,000, and Rp2,717,000 per gram respectively. Prices are subject to change at any time.

Government Distributes Basic Food Packages in Jakarta a Day After 81st Independence Day

The Indonesian government distributed basic food packages at 40 locations across Jakarta on 18 August 2026, a day after the 81st Independence Day celebrations. The 'Jamuan Rakyat' (People's Feast) programme also included free health check-ups and aimed to bring the government closer to the people. Deputy Minister Purwadi Arianto said the initiative reflects President Prabowo Subianto's message that the values of independence should be enjoyed by all citizens.

House fire in Matraman, East Jakarta, suspected to have been caused by electrical short circuit

A residential fire in Matraman, East Jakarta, is believed to have been triggered by an electrical short circuit. Firefighters deployed 18 vehicles and 90 personnel to control the blaze, which affected a 200-square-metre house. Fifteen residents from five families were safely evacuated, and no casualties were reported.

Centring Trade in Nansha, Connecting the World: The Heart of the GBA Shapes a New Landscape for the Global Cross-Border Trade Ecosystem

Nansha in Guangzhou's Greater Bay Area has launched a Global Cross-Border Trade Industry Cluster, shifting from a cargo distribution hub to a full supply chain ecosystem. The initiative integrates financial services, compliance support, and digital infrastructure, including blockchain platforms and AI token economics. Major firms such as Google, HSBC, and Midea are participating in the development.

Samsat Palu records IDR 50.72 billion in vehicle tax revenue up to August

The Samsat Palu office in Central Sulawesi has recorded IDR 50.72 billion in motor vehicle tax (PKB) revenue up to the second week of August 2026, reaching 61 percent of its annual target. A provincial tax incentive programme contributed significantly to the increase, generating IDR 6.16 billion during its first two weeks. Mobile Samsat services have also been deployed to improve taxpayer compliance and accessibility.

Muaro Jambi Residents Complain About Illegal Street Racing, Police Seize 72 Vehicles from Motorcycles to Cars

Police in Muaro Jambi have seized 72 vehicles in a crackdown on illegal street racing, motorcycle gangs, and non-compliant vehicle modifications following public complaints. The operation, conducted in Jambi Luar Kota district, targeted noisy exhausts and vehicles without valid documentation, with offenders predominantly teenagers and young adults. Authorities stated the action aims to improve road safety and reduce street crime.

US Alliance with Asian Allies Tested as Military Drills Are Cut

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung has reaffirmed the importance of the defence alliance with the United States after President Donald Trump ordered a reduction in joint military exercises. Japan has also stressed that security cooperation with the US and South Korea remains crucial for regional stability. The move has raised concerns about the reliability of Washington's security commitments in East Asia.

Escaped to the Main Road, Solo Safari Orangutan Removed Its Own Electric Security

An orangutan named Didi escaped from Solo Safari in Central Java after dismantling its electric security system and climbing the enclosure wall. The animal was found wandering on a main road near Universitas Negeri Sebelas Maret and was rescued within about 30 minutes. Management attributed the escape to the orangutan's high intelligence and ability to imitate human behaviour.

Free Health Screening Programme Reaches 108 Million People, Post-Examination Follow-Up Deemed Important

Indonesia's Free Health Screening Programme (CKG) has reached over 108 million people since its launch in February 2025. The Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI) has praised the programme for shifting healthcare focus towards prevention and early detection. PSI is urging the government to strengthen follow-up care, referral services, and health data integration to maximise the programme's benefits.

Health Ministry Establishes Two Field Hospitals to Aid NTT Earthquake Victims

Indonesia's Ministry of Health is setting up two field hospitals in East Nusa Tenggara to restore medical services following earthquake damage to local facilities. The emergency units are being deployed at regional hospitals in Manggarai and Nagekeo regencies. The move is part of a rapid response through the Health Emergency Operation Center to ensure continued access to safe healthcare for affected communities.

Siti Fauziah Discusses Strengthening Constitutional Values and National Character

Plt. Secretary General of the MPR RI, Siti Fauziah, has emphasised that the Constitution is the primary foundation of the Republic of Indonesia. She stated that Constitution Day on 18 August should be a moral call to strengthen nationalism and honour the founding fathers' struggle. Fauziah also highlighted the MPR's role in promoting constitutional values to build the character of Indonesia's younger generation.

Purbaya Speaks Frankly About New Tax Levies in 2027

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has signalled that the government may introduce new taxes in 2027, but only if economic growth reaches around 6% sustainably and household purchasing power is strong enough. He stressed that a single quarter of high growth would not be sufficient justification, and that the government does not want tax policy to burden the public while consumption still needs support.

Golkar Faction Rotation in DPR: Commission X Chair Hetifah Replaced, Mekeng Becomes Commission XII Chair

The Golkar Party faction in Indonesia's House of Representatives (DPR) has rotated several of its commission leadership positions. Agung Widyantoro has replaced Hetifah Sjaifudian as Chair of Commission X, while Melchias Markus Mekeng now chairs Commission XII, taking over from Bambang Patijaya. The faction described the changes as a routine internal assignment mechanism aimed at broadening members' expertise across different sectors.

Telkom: Digital connectivity after NTT earthquake 100 percent restored

PT Telkom Indonesia has announced that telecommunications and digital connectivity services in East Nusa Tenggara have been fully restored following the recent earthquake. The company said all TelkomGroup services in the region are back to normal and stable within three days, supported by backup network links and satellite connectivity. TelkomGroup is also continuing humanitarian assistance across five affected areas as part of its corporate social responsibility programme.

Polda Metro Jaya dismantles synthetic tobacco home industry in South Jakarta

Jakarta Metropolitan Police have uncovered a home-based synthetic tobacco production operation run from two boarding houses in South Jakarta. Two suspects were arrested and 487.38 grams of synthetic tobacco, along with production equipment, were seized. The drugs were marketed covertly through social media, targeting young consumers.

Nadiem Appeal Hearing: Prosecutors Say LKPP Testimony Reinforces First-Instance Verdict

Prosecutors in the appeal hearing of former education minister Nadiem Makarim argued that testimony from an ex-LKPP official strengthens the original corruption conviction over Chromebook procurement. The defence had sought to introduce a statement of absolute responsibility, but the panel indicated it had already been considered in the first-instance ruling.

Responding to Febrie's Pretrial Motion, Police Assert They Hold More Than Two Pieces of Evidence

The National Police's Corruption Eradication Corps (Kortas Tipikor) has defended its decision to name former Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah a suspect, stating it has gathered more than two valid pieces of evidence. The police outlined that the investigation involved 16 witnesses, three experts, and documentary evidence related to alleged corruption in the handling of the PT ASABRI case. The pretrial hearing at the South Jakarta District Court also addressed Febrie's challenge to the legality of searches and seizures conducted at his residence.

UAE Accuses Iran of Firing Ballistic Missiles into Its Territory

The United Arab Emirates has accused Iran of launching two ballistic missiles towards its territory, with one landing inside its territorial waters. The UAE defence ministry said the country remains fully prepared to respond to any threats, while Iran has yet to comment on the allegation.

Cambridge International AS & A Level entries grow across Southeast Asia

Cambridge International Education reports a 5% global rise in AS & A Level entries, with particularly strong growth of 12% in Indonesia and Thailand. The trend reflects increasing demand across Southeast Asia for internationally recognised qualifications that provide pathways to higher education. Mathematics remains the most popular subject, while Business has entered the top five in Indonesia, Vietnam and Thailand, signalling growing interest in entrepreneurship.

Kuansing Pacu Jalur Festival Begins, 857 Police Personnel Deployed for Security

The Pacu Jalur Tepian Narosa festival in Kuantan Singingi has commenced, with Riau Regional Police deploying 857 personnel to secure the cultural event. The festival, which runs from 1 August with its peak from 19–23 August 2026, carries the theme 'Budaya Lestari, Ekonomi Berseri' (Culture Endures, Economy Shines). Police also conducted 'Operation PETI Merah Putih Kuantan' against illegal gold mining, uncovering eight cases with 17 suspects and destroying 525 illegal mining rafts to protect the Kuantan River.

Xiaomi to debut humanoid robot at World Robot Conference 2026

Xiaomi has confirmed it will unveil its first humanoid robot on the global stage at the World Robot Conference 2026 in Beijing. The company aims to deploy the robot in smart manufacturing to take over manual tasks, integrated within its 'people, cars, and home' ecosystem. Earlier trials at Xiaomi's car factory showed the robots achieving a 90 per cent success rate in final assembly tasks.

Gradiant Expands U.S. Operations with New Leadership, Office Openings, and Long-Term Service Contracts

Gradiant, a water treatment firm positioning itself as the 'Water Layer' for the AI economy, has announced a major expansion in the United States. The company has appointed Dr. Nish Vora as Managing Director for the Americas, opened three new offices, and launched a Global Innovation Center in Houston. It has also secured long-term operations and maintenance contracts, including one with a leading chip manufacturer.

Kemendes urges professional assistants to complete 2026 village fund realisation reports

The Ministry of Villages and Development of Disadvantaged Regions (Kemendes PDT) has called on professional assistants (TPP) across the regions to promptly complete and upload reports on the realisation of 2026 village fund usage. The ministry said complete reporting will enable the government to monitor budget utilisation more effectively. Kemendes PDT also acknowledged existing technical obstacles and pledged to continue improving the monitoring and evaluation application.

How to Change DTSEN 2026 Decile Data Online Using a Mobile Phone

The Indonesian government uses a decile system to classify households by welfare level for social assistance distribution. Citizens who believe their recorded decile status no longer reflects their current circumstances can request a data change online via the Cek Bansos application or through their local village office. The process requires supporting documents and is subject to socio-economic verification before the updated status takes effect.

Forestry Minister: BNPB support strengthens forest fire handling amid El Nino

Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni has highlighted the crucial role of the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) in tackling forest and land fires during the El Nino phenomenon. Collaborative efforts include weather modification operations and aerial firefighting across vulnerable provinces. The minister emphasised that such integrated responses are essential to mitigate environmental and social impacts.

Trump Delays 50% Import Tariff, Says US and Canada Have Reached Trade Deal

US President Donald Trump has postponed a planned 50% tariff on Canadian imports for three days, citing progress towards a trade agreement between the two countries. The delay comes as negotiators reportedly discuss reducing US tariffs on Canadian automotive products and Canada granting concessions on dairy quotas and alcohol sales. Business groups, including the US Chamber of Commerce, have welcomed the move, warning that higher tariffs would damage both economies.

Rupiah Potentially Weakens Today, Market Awaits Bank Indonesia RDG Outcome

The rupiah opened slightly stronger against the US dollar on Wednesday morning but is expected to face downward pressure as markets await the outcome of Bank Indonesia's Board of Governors Meeting. Analysts from Bank Woori Saudara, Permata Bank, and LPEM FEB UI broadly expect the central bank to hold its benchmark rate at 5.75%. Global factors, including rising US Treasury yields and elevated oil prices, are also limiting the rupiah's room for appreciation.

DPR and Government Finalise Policy on Teacher Employment Status, PPPK to Become Full-Time in 2027

The House of Representatives and the government have finalised a new policy on the employment status of teachers holding Government Employee with Work Agreement (PPPK) positions. Part-time PPPK teachers will be promoted to full-time status in 2027, while PPPK teachers will also have the opportunity to apply for civil servant positions. The policy aims to address the significant gap between the number of teachers and national staffing needs.

House Deputy Speaker Praises BNN and Riau Islands Police for Seizing 2.6 Tonnes of Liquid Narcotics

Ahmad Sahroni, Deputy Chairman of House Commission III, has commended a joint operation by the National Narcotics Agency (BNN), Customs, and Riau Islands Police that intercepted 2.6 tonnes of liquid narcotics aboard the MV Ocean. The seizure, described as the largest of its kind, was carried out on Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. Sahroni warned that such a large quantity of drugs would have endangered the nation's youth had it reached circulation.

What is the Difference between NU and a Political Party?

The issue of transactional politics and alleged money politics in the 35th Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) Congress has been described as an ironic phenomenon. Observers argue that such practices contradict NU's identity as a socio-religious organisation rooted in morality and Islamic values. Senior NU clerics have called for the organisation to return to its founding principles and reject money politics.

Pegadaian Peduli Programme Distributes Aid to NTT Earthquake Victims

State-owned pawnbroker PT Pegadaian has distributed initial relief aid to victims of the 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck Nusa Tenggara Timur. The assistance focuses on basic needs including food, clean water, medical supplies and temporary shelter across six affected regencies. The company has also begun assessing damage to its customers and operational facilities, with plans for further aid during the recovery phase.

Golkar Faction Reshuffles Leadership, Commissions, and Other DPR Bodies

The Golkar Party faction in the House of Representatives has reshuffled its leadership, commission assignments, and other council bodies. Secretary General Muhammad Sarmuji announced the changes during a party briefing, noting the rotation was formalised in a faction letter dated 14 August. He admitted the reshuffle was difficult due to members' close ties with the party's central board and founding organisations.

Trimedya Hopes Advocates Bill Is Passed Soon: A Gift from Prabowo for Advocates

Serikat Pengacara Indonesia chairman Trimedya Panjaitan has urged the government to complete the revision of the Advocates Law, describing it as a potential legacy of President Prabowo Subianto's administration for the legal profession. He said discussions with the government began before the Constitutional Court ruling on advocates and that SPI will help oversee the process. The bill is already included in the 2026 priority national legislation programme.

Bali Governor Koster Urges Agencies to Be More Innovative in Boosting Regional Revenue

Bali Governor Wayan Koster has called on all provincial agencies to work more innovatively and maximise efforts to increase locally generated revenue in the 2026 regional budget. He also urged the Bali Regional Revenue Agency to intensify proactive collection of vehicle tax arrears. As of mid-August 2026, Bali's locally generated revenue had reached Rp 2.4 trillion, or 58 percent of the Rp 4.2 trillion target.

East Kotawaringin Regent Evaluates Unspent Emergency Funds for Forest and Land Fire Handling

East Kotawaringin Regent Halikinnor is reviewing the use of the region's Unforeseen Expenditure Budget (BTT) for forest and land fire management, as around Rp5 billion remains unspent despite an ongoing emergency status. The emergency period runs from 30 July to 26 August 2026, and the regent is coordinating with regional agencies and the central government to ensure adequate resources. The local disaster agency has been instructed to accelerate the disbursement of funds to support field operations.

Home Affairs Ministry Bans Regional Heads from Recruiting New Civil Servants

The Indonesian government and the House of Representatives have agreed to convert part-time government contract workers (PPPK) into full-time civil servants by 2027. Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya Sugiarto said regional heads will no longer be allowed to recruit new civil servants. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa assured the policy will not jeopardise the 2027 budget deficit target of 2.4% of GDP.

PLN Sulselrabar Invites Public to Use Merdeka Daya Programme for 50% Power Upgrade Discount

State electricity company PLN is offering a 50 per cent discount on connection fees for customers adding power capacity under its Merdeka Daya programme. The promotion runs from 17 to 25 August 2026 and is available to low-voltage single-phase customers across all tariff groups. PLN says the initiative aims to support household, business, and educational productivity while boosting economic growth in South, Southeast, and West Sulawesi.

Rupiah opens stronger, predicted to weaken ahead of Bank Indonesia RDG

The rupiah opened slightly stronger against the US dollar on Wednesday, but analysts expect it to weaken as markets await the outcome of Bank Indonesia's Board of Governors meeting. Bank Indonesia is widely expected to hold its benchmark interest rate at 5.75 percent, supported by easing inflation and improved capital inflows.

Ministry of Forestry strengthens mangrove rehabilitation synergy through Riau Police expedition

The Ministry of Forestry's Mangroves for Coastal Resilience programme has joined the Riau Regional Police's Merah Putih Presisi 2026 Expedition to rehabilitate coastal areas affected by severe abrasion. The initiative targets 17 locations in frontier, outermost and disadvantaged regions, including Kuala Selat Village in Indragiri Hilir Regency. The collaboration aims to restore mangrove ecosystems while supporting alternative livelihoods for communities that lost coconut plantations to seawater intrusion.

Oil Prices Rise for Four Consecutive Days

Global oil prices extended their gains for a fourth straight session on Wednesday, driven by renewed concerns over supply security in the Strait of Hormuz. Brent and WTI both climbed around one per cent, reaching their highest levels since late July. Market attention remains focused on geopolitical risks in the Middle East and tighter US crude inventories.

Muaro Jambi Police Impound 72 Vehicles in Crackdown on Motorcycle Gangs and Illegal Street Racing

Police in Muaro Jambi have impounded 72 vehicles during an overnight operation targeting motorcycle gangs, illegal street racing and vehicles fitted with noisy exhausts. The action follows public complaints about reckless riding and disturbances in Jambi Luar Kota. Officers also destroyed confiscated illegal exhausts on site and urged residents to report further incidents via the police 110 service.

Man Arrested in Bogor for Alleged Sexual Abuse of Seven Boys

Police in Bogor have arrested a 35-year-old man identified as VS, also known as Jack, on suspicion of sexually abusing at least seven underage boys in West Bogor. The suspect was initially detained by local residents before being handed over to officers. He has been transferred to the Women and Children Protection Unit at Bogor City Police for further questioning.

Warm, Responsive Parenting Proven to Reduce ADHD Risk in Children

A new study suggests that warm and responsive parenting from an early age can significantly reduce the risk of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children. The research, published in the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, found that nurturing care can mitigate the impact of prenatal inflammation caused by factors such as infection, diabetes, stress, and pollution. Researchers from Oregon Health & Science University followed more than 300 pregnant women and their children to reach these conclusions.

IHSG expected to move sideways as market awaits Bank Indonesia policy direction

The Jakarta Composite Index is expected to trade sideways on Wednesday as investors await the outcome of Bank Indonesia's Board of Governors meeting. Consensus expects the central bank to hold the BI-Rate at 5.75 percent amid stable domestic inflation and efforts to support the rupiah. Global bond yield increases and oil price concerns are also weighing on market sentiment.

US–South Korea Joint Military Exercise Cut to Half Its Duration at Washington's Request

The annual Ulchi Freedom Shield exercise between the United States and South Korea has been shortened from ten days to five at Washington's request. The decision follows President Donald Trump's call to reduce the drill, which he described as sending an inappropriate and hostile signal to North Korea. Seoul has insisted the exercise remains purely defensive.

Babel KemenHAM Office Guides Penyamun Village as Human Rights Aware Village

The Regional Office of the Ministry of Human Rights for the Bangka Belitung Islands is providing direct guidance and mentoring to officials and residents of Penyamun Village in Bangka Regency. The programme aims to ensure that human rights values are genuinely applied in public services at the village level. The initiative involves collaboration with local government, the military, police, and community elements to create fair, transparent, and non-discriminatory services.

Traveloka SEA Index Q2 2026: Southeast Asians Are Booking Longer Stays and the Region's Own Beaches Are Winning

Traveloka's inaugural SEA Index reveals Southeast Asian travellers are taking longer, richer trips, with the region's own beaches emerging as a breakout star alongside strong outbound demand to East Asia and China's second cities. The data, drawn from first-party bookings across Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam, shows destinations like Phú Quốc, Krabi, and Bali gaining momentum while cities such as Osaka, Seoul, Shanghai, and Taipei grew faster than market averages in all five source markets. The report highlights a shift towards value-led, experience-rich holidays, underpinned by expanding visa-free arrangements and new direct flight routes.

Finance Minister to Meet Industry Minister Over Electric Motorcycle Incentive Rules

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has pledged to meet Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang to discuss the fiscal rules for the Rp5 million electric motorcycle incentive programme. Purbaya said the programme should begin in September 2026 and that the Finance Ministry regulation would be issued quickly. The Industry Ministry has stated it is technically ready to implement the programme once the regulation is published.

Government accelerates aid distribution for NTT disaster victims, 253 tonnes of logistics dispatched

The Indonesian government is expediting the distribution of aid to communities affected by the disaster in East Nusa Tenggara, following President Prabowo Subianto's directive. By the fifth day after the disaster, a total of 253 tonnes of logistics had been sent to various affected areas. Two main command posts in Labuan Bajo and Maumere are coordinating the distribution efforts.

Antam Gold Price Today, 19 August 2026: Plunges to Rp2,645,000

The price of Antam gold fell sharply by Rp50,000 per gram on Wednesday, 19 August 2026, reaching Rp2,645,000. The buyback price also weakened to Rp2,505,000 per gram. Prices remain subject to market fluctuations and applicable tax regulations.

Banten's 2027 Regional Budget Projected to Fall to Rp9.51 Trillion

Banten's provincial budget for 2027 is projected to decline from Rp10.27 trillion to Rp9.51 trillion due to adjustments in central government transfers. Governor Andra Soni has called for greater efficiency and creativity in generating locally sourced revenue. He also urged the provincial government to focus spending on priority programmes that directly benefit the public.

Registration for DPD RI Awards 2026 Still Open Until 21 August

The Regional Representative Council (DPD RI) is still accepting nominations for its 2026 awards until 21 August, inviting the public to propose local figures across four categories. The awards recognise contributions in non-formal education, health technology, food self-sufficiency, and regional cultural preservation. DPD RI Chairman Sultan B. Najamudin has assured that the selection process is free from intervention and involves capable, independent experts.

At BRICS Forum, Minister LH Says Many Developed Countries Retreat from Responsibility to Restore the Environment

Indonesia's Environment Minister Moh Jumhur Hidayat has expressed concern that some wealthy nations are stepping back from collective responsibility to tackle pollution and climate change while continuing to contribute the bulk of global emissions. Speaking at the BRICS environment ministers' meeting in New Delhi, he stressed the importance of protecting biodiversity and building resilience. Indonesia highlighted its rich biodiversity and the climate threats facing its coastal population.

Bali Ministry of Law Records 8,871 Intellectual Property Applications, Up 34.25 Percent

The Bali Regional Office of the Ministry of Law recorded 8,871 intellectual property applications as of 18 August 2026, a 34.25 per cent increase compared with the same period last year. Communal intellectual property applications also rose sharply from 15 to 46. The ministry is encouraging creators to utilise the zero-tariff policy for music copyright registration to boost economic benefits.

Haji Isam's Wealth in the Spotlight Amid Rumours of BYAN Stake Acquisition

Rumours have circulated that Haji Isam may acquire around 62.2% of BYAN shares, with the potential transaction estimated at approximately Rp358.17 trillion based on market prices. BYAN management has stated it is unaware of any such takeover plan. Meanwhile, Haji Isam's indirect shareholdings in three listed companies are estimated to be worth around Rp62.14 trillion.

North Sumatra Police provide free health checks for Samosir villagers

The North Sumatra Regional Police have conducted free health examinations for residents of Maduma Village in Samosir Regency to improve access to healthcare in rural areas. The initiative targeted around 70 people, including children and the elderly, and included checks for blood pressure, blood sugar, uric acid, dental health, and cholesterol. The programme was carried out simultaneously in 17 provinces as part of support for government efforts to deliver optimal health services.

UEFA: Kevin Lamour's Dismissal Is a Form of FIFA Muzzling

UEFA Vice-President Laura McAllister has condemned FIFA's dismissal of Chief Operating Officer Kevin Lamour, calling it a muzzling of transparency. Lamour was sacked two weeks after publicly revealing President Gianni Infantino's secret plan to sell shares in FIFA competitions to private investors. The controversy has prompted several football federations to withdraw support for Infantino ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

Immigration-assisted villages serve as early detection, not enforcement units

The Batam Immigration Office is involving local communities through nine assisted villages and sub-districts to exchange information and detect immigration violations early. Officials say the programme focuses on prevention and public education rather than enforcement. The initiative also aims to identify risks of people smuggling and human trafficking.

Study Reveals Differences Between the Faces of the 'Haves' and the 'Have-Nots'

A study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology suggests that a person's wealth and social class can be read from their face, even with a neutral expression. Researchers found that people with more financial stability tend to have more relaxed facial features, while those struggling to meet basic needs may carry subtle emotional tension. The findings raise concerns about facial-based social class perception contributing to bias and the cycle of poverty.

Pegadaian Distributes Emergency Aid to East Nusa Tenggara Earthquake Victims Through Pegadaian Peduli Programme

State-owned pawnbroker PT Pegadaian has distributed initial emergency aid to communities affected by the 7.7-magnitude earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. The assistance, delivered through the company's corporate social responsibility programme Pegadaian Peduli, includes staple foods, clean water, medicines, sanitation supplies and temporary shelter. Pegadaian says it is also assessing affected customers and operational facilities as it prepares for longer-term recovery support.

Asologaima Police Station in Papua Highlands Shot at by Unknown Persons

The Asologaima Police Station in Jayawijaya, Papua Highlands, was fired upon by unknown persons on Monday morning, with around ten shots heard. No casualties or material damage were reported, and the situation has since returned to normal. Police are continuing their investigation and have recovered ten 5.56 mm bullet casings from the scene.

Antam Gold Price Today Falls Rp 50,000 per Gram, Check the Full List

The price of Antam gold fell by Rp 50,000 to Rp 2,645,000 per gram on Wednesday morning, with the buyback price also declining to Rp 2,505,000 per gram. Transactions above Rp 10 million are subject to a 1.5 percent income tax, while gold purchases carry a 0.25 percent tax. The article provides the complete price list for various gold bar weights.

Bali Police Deploy SAR Personnel and Field Kitchens to NTT for Disaster Relief

The Bali Regional Police have dispatched ten Mobile Brigade (Brimob) SAR personnel to East Nusa Tenggara to support disaster response efforts. The team will assist with search and rescue operations as well as provide basic necessities such as ready-to-eat meals and clean water. The deployment is part of the 'Bhakti Brimob untuk Negeri' programme.

Banten Quarantine Foils Shipment of 3 Tonnes of Wild Boar Meat and 600 kg of Softshell Turtle Meat

Quarantine officials in Banten have intercepted and destroyed around 3.6 tonnes of undocumented wild boar and softshell turtle meat at Merak Ferry Port. The shipment, originating from Jambi and bound for Semarang, lacked the required sanitary certificates and quarantine documents. Authorities said the action was part of efforts to protect animal health, public health, food security and the national economy.

In a Week, Indonesia Foils 3 Gold Smuggling Attempts by Foreign Nationals

Indonesian authorities have thwarted three separate attempts to smuggle nearly 49 kilograms of gold out of the country within a single week. The operations involved the Directorate General of Customs and Excise and the National Police, targeting foreign nationals from China and India. The seized gold is estimated to be worth over Rp120 billion.

US Imposes Sanctions on ICC President Tomoko Akane

The United States has sanctioned International Criminal Court President Tomoko Akane and senior lawyer Abdoulaye Seye, citing the need to protect American citizens from the court's jurisdiction. Secretary of State Marco Rubio framed the move as part of a campaign to dismantle what he called a 'fake court', linking it to principles in the US Declaration of Independence. The ICC condemned the sanctions, warning they undermine the rule of law, while the action is widely seen as connected to the court's arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Bank Indonesia Explains Fee Scheme for Indonesia Credit Card, Compares with Visa and Mastercard

Bank Indonesia has outlined the fee structure for the Indonesia Credit Card (KKI), a domestically processed payment instrument launched on 17 August 2026. The central bank emphasised that KKI transactions are processed through the National Payment System Infrastructure, unlike international principal-based cards such as Visa and Mastercard. Analysts view the domestic processing scheme as an initial step towards strengthening Indonesia's payment system independence.

APPSI distributes Rp150 million in aid for Flores earthquake victims

The Association of Indonesian Provincial Governments (APPSI) has channelled humanitarian aid worth Rp150 million through the East Nusa Tenggara provincial government for communities affected by the Flores earthquake. The assistance includes ready-to-eat meals, instant noodles, bread, pillows, blankets, sarongs, mats, mineral water and other essential items transported in two lorries. APPSI expressed appreciation for the provincial government's rapid response and coordination with district governments, the military and police.

Police foil shipment of 27 kg of methamphetamine from Aceh to Tangerang

North Sumatra Police have intercepted a 27-kilogram shipment of methamphetamine hidden inside a modified vehicle on the Trans-Sumatra highway. Two suspects from East Aceh were arrested and allegedly told officers they were transporting the drugs to Tangerang on the orders of a man identified only as P. Police are continuing to pursue the suspected organiser.

North Kalimantan records highest integrity score on Kalimantan Island in 2025 KPK survey

The North Kalimantan Provincial Government achieved a score of 73.14 in the Corruption Eradication Commission's 2025 Integrity Assessment Survey, the highest among provinces on Kalimantan Island. Governor Zainal instructed all regional apparatus to continue improving performance and completing set targets. The province also reported 100 percent compliance in submitting State Officials' Wealth Reports as of 31 March 2026.

BSI Launches Indonesia's First Sharia Financing Card Integrated with GPN and QRIS

PT Bank Syariah Indonesia (BSI) has introduced the BSI Hasanah KKI Card, the country's first sharia financing card using the National Payment Gateway and integrated with BYOND by BSI for QRIS transactions. The virtual card is initially positioned as a second card for existing BSI Hasanah Card holders, with limits ranging from Rp4 million to Rp100 million. BSI says the product supports national payment system independence and expands sharia-compliant financing access.

Chinese car sales in Indonesia rise 82 percent in first semester of 2026

Wholesale sales of Chinese-brand vehicles in Indonesia reached 94,971 units from January to July 2026, an 82 percent increase compared with the same period last year, according to GAIKINDO. The strong growth helped lift overall car sales in Indonesia by 18.3 percent in the first seven months of the year. BYD and Jaecoo accounted for more than half of Chinese-brand sales, while several new Chinese brands have recently entered the Indonesian market.

Banten Quarantine Agency Foils Smuggling of 3.6 Tonnes of Undocumented Meat at Merak Port

Indonesia's Quarantine Agency (Barantin) has intercepted and destroyed 3.6 tonnes of undocumented meat at Merak Ferry Port in Banten. The illegal shipment comprised 3 tonnes of wild boar meat and 600 kilograms of softshell turtle meat originating from Jambi and destined for Semarang, Central Java. Officials stressed the action was taken to protect public health, food security and the national economy from the risk of diseases such as African Swine Fever.

Asian Currencies Diverge: Won and Yen Strengthen, Rupiah Under Pressure

Asian currencies traded mixed on Wednesday morning as the US dollar weakened slightly in global markets. The South Korean won led gains while the Philippine peso and Indonesian rupiah came under pressure. Market attention remains focused on the Federal Reserve's policy path amid signs of a slowing US economy.

Joint Patrol Thwarts Suspected Street Brawl in East Jakarta

A joint patrol team from the Metro Jaya Police Mobile Brigade and East Jakarta Metro Police Precinct prevented a suspected street brawl in Cipayung early on Wednesday. Four young men were detained along with three sharp weapons and two motorcycles. Police have urged parents to increase supervision of their children at night and encouraged residents to report potential security disturbances promptly.

Uterine fibroids can be treated with surgery while preserving the uterus, says specialist

A gynaecology specialist at Eka Hospital MT Haryono has stated that uterine fibroids and large ovarian cysts can now be treated accurately without removing the uterus, thanks to robotic gynaecological surgery. The procedure offers high precision, smaller incisions, minimal scarring, lower pain and bleeding risk, and faster recovery. The choice of procedure still depends on the size, number, and location of the fibroids or cysts, the patient's health condition, and pregnancy plans.

JCOOK Introduces ARCA One Pro & ARCA One Compact

JCOOK Indonesia has launched the ARCA One Pro and ARCA One Compact, the first phase of its Automatic Robot Cooking Assistant series aimed at the commercial kitchen industry. The company says the technology, developed in Indonesia, is already being marketed internationally, including in Malaysia, and is designed to improve consistency, efficiency and cost control in food and beverage operations.

UAE Accuses Iran of Firing Two Ballistic Missiles, Cuts Trade and Financial Ties

The United Arab Emirates has accused Iran of launching two ballistic missiles towards its territory, prompting Abu Dhabi to suspend all trade and financial transactions with Tehran. The alleged attack occurred just as a two-month US-Iran peace negotiation window expired without a breakthrough. Iran has not officially commented, though its state broadcaster suggested the incident bore the hallmarks of a false-flag operation.

Flores Island Hit by 2,850 Aftershocks Following M 7.7 Earthquake

Flores Island in East Nusa Tenggara has experienced 2,850 aftershocks following the magnitude 7.7 earthquake on Saturday, with 83 of them felt by residents. The death toll has risen to 70, with hundreds more injured across several regencies. Authorities continue to monitor seismic activity as communities remain on alert.

RI to host inaugural comprehensive strategic dialogue with China

Indonesia will host the first Indonesia-China Comprehensive Strategic Dialogue in Jakarta on 21 August, led by Foreign Minister Sugiono and his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi. The new mechanism aims to review cooperation achievements and set strategic priorities, alongside a second '2+2' dialogue involving defence ministers. The meetings underscore deepening bilateral ties, with bilateral trade reaching US$154 billion in 2025 and China remaining a major investor in manufacturing, infrastructure, and technology.

IHSG Opens Lower at 6,408 on 19 August 2026

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) opened in negative territory on Wednesday morning, falling 41.65 points or 0.65% to 6,408.18. The decline reflects cautious market sentiment as investors weigh domestic economic developments and global market fluctuations. The index had closed 0.75% higher at 6,449.83 the previous day, with expectations that Bank Indonesia would hold the BI-Rate at 5.75%.

BMKG warns of hazardous air quality in Banjarbaru as PM2.5 levels spike

The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has warned that air quality in Banjarbaru, South Kalimantan, reached hazardous levels on Wednesday morning due to high concentrations of fine particulate matter (PM2.5). The agency linked the spike to forest and land fires and dry atmospheric conditions. Residents are urged to wear masks and limit outdoor activities.

Three Indonesian volcanoes erupt in rapid succession Tuesday night

Three Indonesian volcanoes—Mount Ibu, Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki, and Mount Semeru—erupted within hours of each other on Tuesday night, prompting heightened alerts and exclusion zones. The Geological Agency reported ash columns and seismic tremors, with authorities enforcing safety radii and river corridor restrictions to protect residents from pyroclastic flows and cold lava mudslides.

Home Affairs Ministry Ensures Weak Fiscal Regions and Disaster Areas Become TKD Priorities

The Ministry of Home Affairs is monitoring regional finances as regional revenue realisation slowed while spending increased. The central government has disbursed additional Regional Transfer Funds to support regions with weak fiscal capacity and those affected by disasters. The ministry also urged local governments to maintain economic growth and control inflation.

New Chapter in Panji Gumilang Money Laundering Case: Masses Urge Indramayu Court to Execute Asset Return

Supporters of the Yayasan Pesantren Indonesia have gathered at the Indramayu District Court to demand the immediate execution of a court ruling concerning the return of assets in the money laundering case involving Abdussalam Panji Gumilang. The foundation insists that the assets, which include vehicles, land, buildings, and funds, must be returned to the organisation as the rightful legal owner. The demand is based on final and binding rulings from the Bandung High Court and the Supreme Court.

BI-Rate projected to remain at 5.75 percent in August 2026

Economists expect Bank Indonesia to hold its benchmark interest rate at 5.75 percent at the August 2026 Board of Governors meeting, citing easing inflation and improving capital inflows. They also note that external pressures have temporarily subsided and that the central bank retains room to raise rates later if global conditions deteriorate sharply.

Polri's rapid NTT earthquake response reflects Astacita spirit, says observer

Political and legal observer Boni Hargens has praised the Indonesian National Police's swift response to the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara, describing it as a reflection of the Astacita vision of President Prabowo Subianto's administration. He emphasised that the police's humanitarian commitment is institutional and systemic rather than incidental. Hargens also highlighted the coordination between the police, military, disaster agency and local government as a model for future national disaster management.

Pre-trial Hearing on Febrie's Suspect Designation and Detention Held Today

The South Jakarta District Court has commenced the first hearing of a pre-trial motion filed by Febrie Adriansyah challenging his designation as a suspect and subsequent detention by the Attorney General's Office. His legal team argues that the procedures were flawed, citing violations of the presumption of innocence and the Criminal Procedure Code. The case centres on the legality of the investigation into alleged corruption and money laundering involving the former deputy attorney general for special crimes.

Israel Strikes Airbase in Northwest Syria Amid Concerns Over Turkish Deployment

Israel launched air strikes on the Abu Duhur airbase in Syria's Idlib province, reportedly to prevent the deployment of Turkish forces there. Damascus has condemned the attack as an unjustified provocation and a violation of Syrian sovereignty.

FTSE Russell Delays Full Index Reclassification for Indonesia, Threatens Removal of HSC Shares

FTSE Russell has again postponed a full index reclassification for Indonesia, including free float increases and new listings, until at least the September 2026 index review. The index provider acknowledged recent measures by Indonesian market authorities to improve transparency, such as publishing data on share ownership above 1% and the High Shareholding Concentration (HSC) list. FTSE Russell also confirmed that securities subject to an HSC warning will be removed from its indices at the next review.

BRI Mantri Brings Banking Services to the Islands of North Maluku

A BRI field officer in North Maluku is working to extend banking access to remote island communities, many of whom are fishermen, farmers, and small traders. Wiranto Jumran serves hundreds of debtors across dozens of villages on seven islands, often using BRI's floating banking service. He describes the challenges of rough seas and difficult terrain, and the satisfaction of seeing customers' businesses grow.

13 Defendants in Daycare Child Abuse Case in Yogyakarta Face First Hearing

Thirteen defendants accused of child abuse at a daycare in Yogyakarta appeared in court for their first hearing. The defendants include the foundation chairman, the head teacher, and eleven caregivers. They are charged under Indonesia's Child Protection Law, with the two senior figures facing additional charges under the National Education System Law and the Consumer Protection Law.

Police Foil Planned Brawl in Cipayung, East Jakarta; Four Youths and Weapons Seized

A joint patrol by Brimob and East Jakarta Police thwarted a planned street brawl in Cipayung, East Jakarta, in the early hours of Wednesday. Four youths were detained along with sharp weapons found at the scene. Police have urged parents to increase supervision of their children at night and encouraged the public to report any potential disturbances.

West Kotawaringin Extends Forest and Land Fire Emergency Status for Two Weeks

The West Kotawaringin Regency administration has extended its forest and land fire emergency status from 21 August to 4 September 2026. The decision follows a rise in fire incidents, with 189 events recorded and 859,490 hectares burned as of 18 August. The regency currently ranks second in Central Kalimantan for the largest burned area.

The Makkah Pact and Turkey's Strategic Autonomy

The Makkah Pact, signed by Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan, is significant not for promising full strategic autonomy but for diversifying Turkey's strategic options. Turkey's defence industry strengths complement Saudi financial resources and Pakistan's military capabilities. The pact should be developed as a platform for joint capability building rather than merely a new export market.

Central Lombok forms accommodation monitoring task force ahead of 2026 MotoGP

The Central Lombok administration has established a task force to monitor accommodation and transport prices ahead of the 2026 MotoGP Indonesia at Mandalika Circuit. The task force involves tourism operators, law enforcement and local government. ITDC is targeting 145,000 spectators and promoting ticket sales across several regions.

Residents of Kampung Golo, NTT, Take Shelter in Cemetery, Yet to Receive Aid

Hundreds of residents in Kampung Golo, East Manggarai, NTT, have been sleeping in a cemetery for four days following a magnitude 7.7 earthquake. They lack adequate shelter, food, and lighting, with six homes destroyed and eighteen damaged. Residents say they are waiting for government assistance.

NU Faces Heavy Challenges in Second Century: Urban Youth, Middle Class, and Women

Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) is entering its second century facing significant challenges from demographic shifts, rising education levels, and urbanisation. The organisation must adapt to remain relevant to younger urban generations who require more concrete reasons to identify with NU beyond family heritage. The upcoming 35th Muktamar in Jombang is expected to address these issues alongside the election of a new chairman.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi to Visit Indonesia for Ministerial Meetings

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi is scheduled to visit Indonesia to attend the first Comprehensive Strategic Dialogue and the second 2+2 ministerial meeting. The meetings aim to strengthen political, defence, and security cooperation between the two nations. The visit underscores the deepening comprehensive strategic partnership between Indonesia and China.

Pertamina Patra Niaga distributes 35,000 litres of clean water to Maumere earthquake victims

Pertamina Patra Niaga has distributed 35,000 litres of clean water to residents affected by the earthquake in four villages in Maumere, Flores, East Nusa Tenggara. The assistance was delivered through the Maumere Fuel Terminal on 17 and 18 August 2026. The company said the aid forms part of its commitment to supporting communities in meeting basic needs during post-earthquake recovery.

Pentagon reviews US military presence in Middle East

The Pentagon is reassessing the United States' military footprint in the Middle East, according to a report by The Washington Post. The review comes after months of Iranian attacks on key US bases in the Gulf region, prompting officials to consider whether some damaged facilities will be rebuilt in their previous form. The assessment is being led by the Pentagon's policy office, with input from the Joint Chiefs of Staff and US Central Command.

Antam gold price plunges Rp50,000 to Rp2.645 million per gram on Wednesday

The price of gold bullion produced by state-owned miner PT Aneka Tambang (Antam) fell by Rp50,000 to Rp2,645,000 per gram on Wednesday, with the buyback price also declining to Rp2,505,000 per gram. Transactions are subject to income tax under Article 22 of 1.5 percent for buybacks above Rp10 million and 0.25 percent for purchases. The price list covers denominations from 0.5 grams to 1,000 grams.

NASA Shares Close-up View of the Sun, Revealing Unexpected Phenomena

The European Space Agency's Solar Orbiter mission, in collaboration with NASA, has captured dynamic activity in the Sun's outer atmosphere. The footage reveals unique structures in the solar corona, including moss-like formations and coronal rain. The observations were made from a distance of 43 million kilometres, less than a third of the Earth's distance from the Sun.

Cilincing's Illegal Waste Mountain: A 24-Year Environmental Burden

A 5.8-hectare former fishpond in Cilincing, North Jakarta, has been transformed into an illegal waste dump over the past 24 years, affecting local residents' water and air quality. The Jakarta provincial government has identified five waste transport companies allegedly involved in illegal dumping at the site. Authorities say the land's private ownership status has complicated enforcement efforts.

Government Sends 65 Tonnes of Relief Supplies for NTT Earthquake Victims

The Indonesian government has dispatched an additional 65 tonnes of relief supplies to earthquake-affected areas in East Nusa Tenggara, bringing the total aid delivered since the disaster to 254 tonnes. Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya and Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf oversaw the departure of five aircraft from Halim Perdanakusuma Air Base. Distribution is being coordinated through two main command posts in Labuan Bajo and Maumere, utilising air, sea, and land routes.

90 firefighters extinguish house fire in East Jakarta

A residential fire in Matraman, East Jakarta, was brought under control by 90 firefighters from the East Jakarta Fire and Rescue Service. The blaze affected a 200-square-metre house and displaced five families, though no casualties were reported. Authorities are still calculating the financial losses.

APBD Deficit of Rp74 Billion: What Is the Fate of Civil Servant Salaries and Programmes in Cimahi City?

Cimahi City's revised 2026 regional budget is projected to face a deficit of Rp74 billion due to fiscal constraints, with civil servant salaries confirmed safe but allowances still uncertain. The deficit arises from regional revenue of Rp1.429 trillion against expenditure of Rp1.503 trillion, following adjustments based on a BPK audit. Deputy Mayor Adhitia Yudisthira emphasised that spending adjustments must not sacrifice development priorities such as community empowerment programmes and the Gatot Subroto underpass project.

Purbaya: Danantara Has Prepared SOE Dividends for State Budget Reserves

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has stated that the Danantara Investment Management Agency has already prepared allocations of state-owned enterprise dividends to serve as fiscal reserves for the government. The allocation is still being discussed with Danantara and is expected to be finalised this year. The move is intended to reduce the need for new government borrowing.

Ahead of Congress, Gus Lilur reminds NU not to become a 'political vehicle'

Young Nahdlatul Ulama figure Gus Lilur has urged the organisation to maintain its independence ahead of its 35th Congress, warning against it being used to secure political interests. He stressed that leadership selection should be based on religious scholarship and integrity rather than proximity to those in power. The congress is scheduled for 27–31 August 2026 in Jombang, East Java.

Batam fish exports to Singapore reach Rp125 billion up to May

Batam's fishery exports to Singapore reached 3,678 tonnes worth Rp125 billion from January to May 2026, representing about 45 per cent of this year's value target. The city government is targeting 7,000 tonnes worth Rp280 billion for the full year. Officials are optimistic the target will be met, citing improved fishing gear and boat engines provided to local fishermen.

Government Sends 253 Tonnes of Aid to NTT Earthquake Victims

The Indonesian government has dispatched 253 tonnes of logistical aid to communities affected by the recent earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. Distribution is being coordinated through two main posts in Labuan Bajo and Maumere, utilising air, sea, and land routes. The M7.7 earthquake has resulted in 70 deaths, 132 injuries, and over 40,000 displaced persons.

20,500 Prisoners Across West Java Granted Independence Day Remission, 346 Released Immediately

More than 20,500 prisoners in West Java received sentence reductions to mark Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, with 346 released immediately. The remissions were granted to inmates who demonstrated good behaviour and participated in rehabilitation programmes. Officials emphasised that remission serves as motivation for prisoners to reintegrate into society as productive citizens.

After Two Days of Gains, Here's Why the JCI Fell 1%

The Jakarta Composite Index fell more than 1% on Wednesday, dragged down by a sharp sell-off in Bayan Resources after the coal miner clarified it was unaware of any takeover plan by businessman Haji Isam. Investors are also awaiting Bank Indonesia's interest rate decision and monitoring geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.

Joint Forces Foil Large-Scale Smuggling of 2.6 Tonnes of Liquid Narcotics via Cargo Ship in Karimun Waters

Indonesian authorities have intercepted a Tanzania-flagged cargo vessel carrying 2.6 tonnes of liquid narcotics in the waters off Tanjung Balai Karimun. The joint operation involved the National Narcotics Agency, Customs and Excise, and the Riau Islands Police. Ten Myanmar nationals were detained and the vessel was also found to be carrying 1.57 million illegal cigarettes from China.

Pertamina Officially Lowers Prices of 5.5 kg and 12 kg LPG, Here Is the List

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga has reduced the prices of its non-subsidised Bright Gas LPG cylinders, with the 12 kg variant falling by Rp2,000 and the 5.5 kg variant by Rp1,000 effective 15 August 2026. The adjustment is part of the company's periodic evaluation to keep its non-subsidised LPG products competitive. A promotional discount programme is also being offered from 15 to 23 August 2026.

Jakarta Information Commission builds public information openness awareness through outreach

The Jakarta Information Commission (KI DKI) is conducting outreach and education programmes for public service bodies to strengthen awareness of public information openness and personal data protection. The initiative emphasises that information requests must be channelled through designated Information and Documentation Management Officers (PPID), not made personally to staff. The commission hopes the training will encourage public bodies such as RSUD Cilincing hospital to become more transparent, accountable, and protective of citizens' data.

Police station in Papua comes under fire, 10 bullet casings found

A police station in Jayawijaya Regency, Papua Pegunungan, was shot at by unknown assailants on the morning of Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. No casualties or damage were reported, and security forces have launched an investigation after recovering 10 bullet casings and footprints at the scene.

North Korean media criticises US-South Korea joint drills

North Korea's state news agency KCNA has condemned the ongoing US-South Korea joint military exercises, saying they are pushing the Korean Peninsula to the brink of war. The criticism came a day after US President Donald Trump ordered the summer drills to be scaled back, though KCNA did not mention his remarks. South Korean media reported that the allies have decided to shorten the exercise by about half its original duration.

China Wastes 360 TWh of Clean Energy, Equivalent to Mexico's Annual Electricity Needs

China discarded 360 terawatt-hours of clean energy in the first half of 2026, a 49 per cent increase year-on-year, as its grid struggles to absorb surging renewable output. Analysts say the curtailment is structural rather than temporary, driven by transmission bottlenecks and coal supply contracts. The problem is also worsening in Australia and Japan, raising concerns about the pace of the energy transition.

Antam Gold Price Falls Rp50,000 Today, Worst in 5 Months

The price of gold produced by PT Aneka Tambang (Antam) fell by Rp50,000 per gram on Wednesday, marking its sharpest daily decline in five months. The drop erased two consecutive days of gains, with the buyback price also weakening by the same amount. The movement reflects broader volatility in the domestic precious metals market.

Government Bond Auction Receives Rp84.76 Trillion in Bids, Government Absorbs Rp34 Trillion

The Indonesian government received Rp84.76 trillion in total bids for nine series of government bonds (SUN) at an auction on 18 August 2026, absorbing Rp34 trillion. The auction saw strong demand for fixed-rate series, with weighted average yields ranging from 7.01% to 7.30% across maturities extending to 2064. No funds were absorbed from the three Treasury bill (SPN) series despite incoming bids totalling Rp11.73 trillion.

Mount Lewotolok Activity Increases After NTT Earthquake, Danger Radius Extended to 3 km

Volcanic activity at Mount Ili Lewotolok in Lembata Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, has intensified following the 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck the region on 15 August. The Geological Agency has expanded the recommended danger radius to 3 kilometres in the southern and south-eastern sectors due to lava flows now reaching approximately 1,200 metres from the crater rim. Residents and visitors have been advised to avoid the area and take precautions against volcanic ash.

Pekalongan City Government Provides Psychological Support for Junior High School Student Beaten Unconscious by Classmates

The Pekalongan city government has pledged psychological support for a female student at SMPN 6 Pekalongan who was assaulted by fellow pupils and briefly fell into a coma. Mayor Afzan Arslan Djunaid said the victim's recovery is the top priority, with medical treatment and trauma counselling being arranged. The local administration also plans to step up anti-bullying education in schools.

Environment Minister calls for collective responsibility on climate action at BRICS forum

Indonesia's Environment Minister Moh Jumhur Hidayat has urged developed nations to honour their collective responsibility in tackling pollution and climate change during the BRICS environment ministers' meeting in New Delhi. He highlighted Indonesia's National Adaptation Plan 2026-2030 and traditional Nusantara practices such as Subak, Sasi Lompa, and Awig-Awig as models for community-based climate resilience. The minister also stressed that BRICS offers a more representative and effective platform for global environmental governance.

Nine Civilian Women Allegedly Taken Hostage in Jila, Central Papua

Police in Mimika are investigating reports that nine civilian women were taken hostage by an armed group in the remote Jila District of Central Papua. No witnesses have yet come forward to confirm the incident, and authorities are still working to verify the identities of the alleged victims. The challenging mountainous terrain and limited access to the area are hampering efforts to confirm the situation on the ground.

Manggarai Epicentre of NTT Earthquake, Dozens Dead and Hundreds of Buildings Damaged

A magnitude 7.7 earthquake that struck Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, has caused severe devastation in Manggarai Regency, with dozens of fatalities and widespread damage to infrastructure. The disaster has left thousands displaced and prompted a 90-day emergency response status. Rescue efforts are ongoing, with air evacuations being used to transport critically injured victims to hospitals.

Body Theft Scandal: Harvard Fined Rp880 Billion

Harvard University has agreed to pay US$53 million to settle a civil lawsuit over the theft and sale of body parts donated to its medical school. The scandal involved a former morgue manager who stole organs, skin, brains and heads from cadavers and sold them on the black market. The settlement includes a formal apology, reforms to the anatomical gift programme, and a new scholarship fund for medical students.

Three coal corruption defendants from PT PPA undergo first hearing

Three defendants accused of corruption in a coal procurement financing project by state-owned asset manager PT PPA appeared for their first hearing at the Jakarta Corruption Court. The case involves alleged irregularities in invoice financing worth Rp67.31 billion extended to PT Bintang Abadi Sampurna, resulting in state losses of Rp38 billion.

The Fatherless Generation and the Inspiration of the Family of Imran

Indonesia's fatherless index has reached 25.8 percent, prompting the government to launch the Gerakan Ayah Teladan Indonesia (GATI) programme to strengthen fathers' involvement in parenting. The article reflects on the issue through the lens of the Quranic family of Imran, suggesting that family problems are not merely about physical presence but about the values nurtured and passed down through generations.

BMKG forecasts thick cloud cover over much of Jakarta on Wednesday afternoon

The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has forecast that most of Jakarta will be covered by thick clouds on Wednesday afternoon, with rain expected across the capital by late afternoon. Light rain is predicted to continue into the evening, while the Thousand Islands regency may experience thunderstorms. Temperatures are expected to range between 25 and 32 degrees Celsius.