Archive: 20 August 2026
Showing 801-850 of 1,593 articles
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 15:25 WIB
Chronology of Heru Choosing a Random House to Burgle Before Killing Politician's Child
Heru Anggara has been charged with the murder of MAH (9), the son of PKS Cilegon politician Maman Suherman. Prosecutors detailed how Heru, bankrupt from cryptocurrency losses, randomly selected the house using Google Maps after abandoning a plan to rob a bank. The defendant allegedly stabbed the child five times after the victim resisted being tied up, then fled without finding valuables.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 15:25 WIB
10,000 electric buses targeted to operate in Jakarta by 2030
Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has set a target of operating more than 10,000 electric, hydrogen, and hybrid buses in the capital by 2030, up from around 500 currently. The initiative aims to reduce emissions and air pollution in Jakarta. Operational cost savings per unit over 5.5 years are estimated at Rp3.9 billion, equivalent to the price of one 12-metre electric bus.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 15:25 WIB
PNM prepares financing ecosystem for Mekaar at eight percent interest
PT Permodalan Nasional Madani (PNM) is accelerating preparations to implement the new eight percent interest rate for its Mekaar ultra-micro financing programme, targeting rollout by early September 2026. The state-owned enterprise is working with the Ministry of Finance and other agencies to ready regulations, IT systems, cooperation agreements, and liquidity support. The move aims to make capital more affordable for grassroots entrepreneurs while integrating financing with business mentoring and empowerment.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 15:25 WIB
Two People Struck by Trains, Pramono Urges Jakarta Provincial Government and KAI to Strengthen Rail Safety
Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has called for closer coordination between the Jakarta provincial government and state railway operator PT KAI following two separate incidents in which people were struck by trains in the capital. He noted that fencing has been installed along some rail sections to deter unauthorised crossings, but stressed that further measures are needed to improve safety around railway lines.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 15:25 WIB
Kim Jong Un's Sister Admits She Was Unaware of His Communications with Trump
Kim Yo Jong, the influential sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, has said she was unaware of any communications between her brother and US President Donald Trump. Her remarks follow Trump's claims of a strong relationship with Kim and his announcement of a possible meeting later this year. She also dismissed the reduction of US-South Korea military exercises as unworthy of comment.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 15:25 WIB
Aceh proposes economic working group within Coordinating Ministry for Political and Security Affairs coordination desk
Aceh Deputy Governor Fadhlullah has proposed the establishment of an economic development working group within the planned Aceh Coordination Desk being discussed with the Coordinating Ministry for Political and Security Affairs. The working group would focus on addressing poverty and unemployment and improving public welfare in Aceh. The coordination desk is intended to strengthen cross-ministerial coordination on strategic issues in the province.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 15:25 WIB
Environment Ministry promotes community-based waste sorting through religious organisations
Indonesia's Environment Ministry is strengthening the national waste sorting movement by engaging religious communities to build moral awareness at household level. Minister Jumhur Hidayat highlighted the role of organised religious bodies such as HKBP in implementing environmental policy. The ministry is also preparing Extended Producer Responsibility regulations requiring plastic producers to manage their own waste.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 15:24 WIB
Warning America, Iran to Produce Missiles with Greater Warhead Destructive Power
Iran has signalled it will deploy more destructive weaponry in any future conflict, with an IRGC spokesman stating that fragmentation warheads now far exceed those used in previous wars. The announcement comes amid ongoing hostilities that began in February 2026, with Tehran claiming it is acting in self-defence against ISIS and Israel. Israeli defence officials have reportedly expressed surprise at the speed of Iran's military recovery following early-stage attacks.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 15:24 WIB
Andrea Bocelli to Perform in Jakarta and Borobudur Temple, Mark Your Calendars!
Legendary Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli will perform in Indonesia in October and November 2026 as part of his 'Romanza 30th Anniversary World Tour'. The concerts will take place at two iconic locations: Borobudur Temple in Magelang and Jakarta. Indonesia has been selected as the only public destination in Southeast Asia for the tour in 2026, making it an exclusive regional event.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 15:23 WIB
Home Affairs Minister inspects Laurentius Say Maumere Port services after earthquake
Home Affairs Minister Muhammad Tito Karnavian has inspected the Laurentius Say Port in Maumere, Sikka Regency, following a recent earthquake that killed three people. Port operations have returned to normal thanks to digital backup systems, though some buildings sustained damage. The government is coordinating post-disaster relief efforts and will conduct structural assessments once aftershock risks subside.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 15:21 WIB
Jakarta Air Quality Among World's Worst, Pramono Highlights Coal-Fired Power Plants
Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has acknowledged that the capital remains one of the world's most polluted cities, despite significant improvements in public transport usage. He pointed to coal-fired industrial activity around Jakarta, particularly the Suralaya power complex, as a major contributor. The provincial government plans to coordinate with central authorities to address emissions from these sources.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 15:20 WIB
Police Officer in Bulukumba Arrested for Alleged Attempted Rape
A police officer in Bulukumba, South Sulawesi, has been detained by the internal affairs division following allegations of attempted sexual assault against a 26-year-old woman. The officer, identified as Bripda AS, allegedly met the victim through social media before the incident occurred at her boarding house. He is currently under internal police supervision and will be held for seven days pending further investigation.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 15:20 WIB
Property Tycoon Sentenced to Life Imprisonment, Here Is the Case
Evergrande founder Hui Ka Yan has been sentenced to life imprisonment by a Chinese court, five years after the property giant's collapse shook the world's second-largest economy. The former Asia's richest man pleaded guilty to eight charges including fund misuse, fraud, and bribery. The verdict marks a dramatic fall for Hui but offers little relief to Evergrande's creditors, who are still owed around US$300 billion.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 15:19 WIB
West Java Anniversary: Sidkon Djampi Urges Reduction of Urban-Rural Disparity
West Java DPRD member Sidkon Djampi has called for more equitable development between urban and rural areas as the province marks its 81st anniversary. He stressed that progress should not be measured solely by economic growth in cities, but must also deliver tangible benefits to villages in education, health, infrastructure and public services. Djampi urged the provincial government to tailor development programmes to the specific needs of each region.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 15:19 WIB
Import and Export Goods Transport Rules Change, Here Are 5 Points to Know
Indonesia's Ministry of Finance has issued Regulation PMK No. 51 of 2026, replacing the 2019 rules on the onward carriage of imported and exported goods. The new regulation, effective 30 August 2026, aims to improve customs services and oversight while providing legal certainty for businesses. Key changes include expanded document functions, accommodation of spare parts for international transport repairs, and broadened multimodal transport coverage.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 15:18 WIB
Tanjung Priok Police educate students on artificial intelligence utilisation
The Tanjung Priok Port Police have launched an educational programme to teach vocational high school students about the responsible use of artificial intelligence. The initiative aims to equip young people with digital literacy skills while raising awareness of cybercrime risks. Eighty students from SMK Al Jihad in North Jakarta participated in the session, which included assessments and certification.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 15:17 WIB
KUR disbursement in West Kalimantan reaches Rp2.60 trillion in first half of 2026
West Kalimantan disbursed Rp2.60 trillion in People's Business Credit (KUR) in the first half of 2026, reaching 57.91 percent of the annual target. The highest regular KUR realisation was recorded in Sambas Regency, while Pontianak led in housing and agriculture cluster KUR. The provincial treasury office is urging local governments to submit more potential debtor data to expand access to financing for MSMEs.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 15:17 WIB
SAR Team Evacuates Elderly and Pregnant Woman Following NTT Earthquake
Joint SAR teams have intensified medical evacuation and search operations across four districts in East Nusa Tenggara following a series of aftershocks. An elderly resident and a pregnant woman were evacuated to safer facilities for medical care. Authorities remain on high alert after aftershocks reached magnitude 6.0.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 15:16 WIB
Indonesia Bullion Market Association Launched as Catalyst for Bullion Industry Strengthening
The Indonesia Bullion Market Association (IBMA) has been officially launched, one year after President Prabowo Subianto introduced bullion banking activities. Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto said the association is expected to create a more efficient, liquid, transparent and integrated gold market. The government hopes the initiative will unlock the potential of an estimated 1,800 tonnes of informally held public gold and support downstreaming policies.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 15:16 WIB
Pramono Instructs Cloud Seeding Operation in Jakarta Skies on 21 August
Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has ordered a cloud seeding operation for Friday, 21 August, to induce rainfall over the capital. The operation aims to increase precipitation for public benefit while remaining mindful of flood risks. Pramono acknowledged that cloud seeding is a technical effort without guaranteed success, but stressed the government must still make maximum efforts.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 15:15 WIB
Black Sea Becomes a War Zone, Global Wheat Supply in Danger Zone
Russian and Ukrainian attacks on ports and vessels in the Black Sea and Azov Sea have halted more than 97% of the two countries' wheat export capacity, removing a major source of cheap grain from world markets. Global wheat prices have risen about 6.5% this month and are roughly 30% higher than a year earlier. Importers in the Middle East, Africa and Asia are expected to turn to Australia and the United States, but at higher logistics costs.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 15:14 WIB
AI Technology to Keep Growing, MTDL Targets 10% Profit Growth This Year
PT Metrodata Electronics sees rising corporate adoption of AI in Indonesia, with 56.7% of organisations planning to raise GenAI budgets by more than 50%, far above the Asia Pacific average. The company notes a gap between investment and AI maturity, which stands at just 2.03 out of 5. MTDL is targeting 10% growth in revenue and net profit for 2026, expecting its solutions and consulting units to support the bottom line in the second half.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 15:13 WIB
IIBF Strengthens Role of Muslim Entrepreneurs in National Economic Development
The Indonesian Islamic Business Forum (IIBF) has reaffirmed its commitment to becoming a more institutional organisation that contributes to national economic development. At its 17th National Gathering in Lembang, the organisation highlighted its role as a strategic partner to the government and a platform for nurturing entrepreneurs. IIBF leaders also pointed to economic disparities, including low lending to MSMEs, as areas requiring attention.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 15:12 WIB
Colombia declares state of emergency in regions affected by 10 August earthquake
Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella has signed a decree declaring a 30-day economic, social and ecological state of emergency across 15 departments hit by the 10 August 2026 earthquake. The measures aim to rebuild damaged homes, restore businesses and repair critical public infrastructure such as schools and hospitals. The government cited the country's most complex fiscal situation in its republican history as justification for the extraordinary steps.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 15:11 WIB
Minister: Ministry of Transportation's 2025 budget realisation reaches Rp28.68 trillion
Indonesia's Ministry of Transportation realised Rp28.68 trillion of its 2025 budget, equivalent to 88.88 percent of the effective ceiling. Minister Dudy Purwagandhi presented the figures to House Commission V, noting that personnel and goods spending exceeded 95 percent while capital expenditure lagged at 72.75 percent. The ministry's revenue has consistently exceeded targets since 2022.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 15:11 WIB
Bayan Mulud Tradition ready to be held 26 August 2026
The annual Mulud Adat Bayan tradition will take place from 26–29 August 2026 at the ancient Bayan Beleq Mosque in North Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara. For the first time, the event has been officially included in the national tourism calendar, Karisma Event Nusantara (KEN) 2026. Organisers emphasise that tourism must follow culture, not the reverse, with strict rules to protect the sanctity of rituals.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 15:11 WIB
Frequency spectrum auction seen as positive momentum to accelerate 5G adoption in Indonesia
The Indonesian government's auction of the 700 MHz and 2.6 GHz frequency spectrum is viewed as a key opportunity to accelerate 5G adoption, with projections suggesting coverage could grow more than sixfold by 2030. GSMA Asia Pacific head Julian Gorman said the spectrum release and regulatory updates would also support industry investment and create balanced economic value. However, rising global memory and chip prices could slow adoption by making 5G-capable devices more expensive.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 15:10 WIB
Genburgeract, the 'Pothole Patching Critique' Movement from Bekasi
A group of young people in Bekasi has formed Genburgeract, a volunteer movement that repairs public facilities and damaged roads as a form of constructive criticism towards the local government. The group, which began in January 2026, has gained significant social media followings and now receives donations and brand collaborations to fund its activities. Members say their work is a direct statement against the government's failure to maintain public infrastructure.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 15:10 WIB
Bamsoet Urges Acceleration of Central-Regional Bureaucratic Reform
Golkar Party politician Bambang Soesatyo has called on central and regional governments to accelerate results-oriented bureaucratic reform, framing it as essential for achieving the Indonesia Emas 2045 vision. Speaking at a national coordination meeting of regional secretaries, he highlighted persistent challenges including siloed working practices, fragmented data and weak digital governance. He also proposed a real-time National Bureaucratic Reform Dashboard to strengthen oversight and identify regions requiring policy intervention.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 15:10 WIB
Non-Tax State Revenue Target from Natural Resources Declines in 2027, Purbaya Reveals the Culprit
Indonesia's non-tax state revenue (PNBP) target from oil and gas natural resources is set to fall to Rp 129.9 trillion in 2027, down 5.9% from the 2026 outlook of Rp 138.1 trillion. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa attributed the decline to a lower Indonesian Crude Price assumption of US$75 per barrel, compared with the 2026 outlook of US$85 per barrel. The overall PNBP target for 2027 is Rp 517.4 trillion, a 10% drop from the 2026 outlook.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 15:09 WIB
108 Schools in Malaysia Closed Due to Haze from Kalimantan Forest Fires
More than 100 schools in Sarawak, Malaysia, have been temporarily closed after air pollution levels exceeded safe thresholds due to haze from forest and land fires in Kalimantan. The Sarawak State Disaster Management Committee has ordered home-based learning for affected students and advised residents to limit outdoor activities. Air quality readings in several areas have reached 'very unhealthy' levels, with the committee warning that high-risk groups should minimise exposure to polluted air.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 15:09 WIB
Jakarta to Attempt Heavy Rain via Weather Modification on Friday, Pramono: The Key Is No Flooding
The Jakarta provincial government will conduct weather modification operations on Friday, 21 August 2026, to induce rainfall over the capital. Governor Pramono Anung has ordered the operation after forecasts indicated cloud cover, though he acknowledged the technique does not guarantee rain. The move follows a similar operation on Wednesday that brought showers to Jakarta.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 15:08 WIB
Two foreign nationals deported from Tanjungpinang for immigration violations
Indonesian immigration authorities in Tanjungpinang have deported two foreign nationals, one Palestinian and one Nigerian, for breaching residence permit and travel document regulations. The deportations were carried out via Soekarno-Hatta International Airport on Tuesday, 18 August. Officials emphasised that the action forms part of immigration law enforcement aimed at maintaining order and upholding state sovereignty.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 15:07 WIB
1,354 Hectares of Rice Fields in Bekasi Regency Threatened by Drought
Bekasi Regency is racing to prevent a drop in agricultural output as drought threatens 1,354 hectares of productive rice fields across 41 villages and 15 sub-districts. The local agriculture office has distributed water pumps and is normalising irrigation channels to safeguard the 2026 production target of 503,000 tonnes of dry unhusked rice.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 15:07 WIB
Minister Ara Needs Rp 106 Trillion Budget in 2027, Only Rp 11.77 Trillion Approved
Minister of Housing and Settlement Areas Maruarar Sirait has revealed that his ministry's 2027 budget ceiling of Rp 11.77 trillion falls far short of the Rp 106 trillion required to meet development targets. The ministry is seeking support from House Commission V to address the Rp 94.23 trillion shortfall. The minister also reported progress on budget execution and regulatory reforms to accelerate the home renovation programme.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 15:06 WIB
Bogor DLH Garbage Truck Driver Found Dead 'Asleep' in Cabin
A 73-year-old garbage truck driver employed by the Bogor Regency Environmental Agency was found dead inside his vehicle in Bogor Barat. The driver, Atim Rastim, is believed to have died from illness after complaining of chest pain. His family has accepted the death as a misfortune and declined an autopsy.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 15:06 WIB
Indonesia prioritizes solar power in green industry transition
Indonesia is accelerating its shift to solar energy, with Coordinating Minister Airlangga Hartarto announcing a target of around 100 GW of solar capacity within two to three years under President Prabowo Subianto's direction. The plan includes prioritising de-dieselization on small islands and is supported by international partnerships, notably with Germany under the Just Energy Transition Partnership. Despite a US$21.4 billion funding commitment, only about US$4 billion has been utilised so far, prompting calls for faster implementation.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 15:06 WIB
Indonesian Agriculture Minister deploys expert team to tackle durian disease in Central Sulawesi
Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman has ordered a team of experts to address the 'bangkalan' disease affecting durian crops in Central Sulawesi, which causes fruit to drop prematurely and reduces production. The move responds to appeals from local durian farmers, as the province's durian has already entered the Chinese export market. The provincial government is also collaborating with a local university on research to combat the disease.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 15:06 WIB
MPR Deputy Speaker: Young Legislators Must Help Improve Democratic Quality
Deputy Speaker of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) Eddy Soeparno has urged young parliamentarians to play a greater role in strengthening Indonesia's democracy. Speaking at a Habibie Center dialogue, he called for a shift from procedural to substantive democracy, where elected representatives deliver tangible policy outcomes. He highlighted climate change, energy transition, digitalisation, and economic inequality as issues requiring long-term legislative perspectives.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 15:05 WIB
ParagonCorp and ARC USK Explore Aceh Patchouli Potential for Cosmetic Active Ingredients
ParagonCorp has signed a memorandum of understanding with Atsiri Research Center (ARC) at Universitas Syiah Kuala to research Aceh patchouli, particularly patchouli alcohol crystal, as a natural active ingredient for cosmetics. The collaboration combines ARC USK's expertise in essential oils and natural materials with ParagonCorp's cosmetic R&D capabilities. The partnership also covers education, research, and community service, aligning with ParagonCorp's goal of strengthening Indonesia's science and innovation ecosystem.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 15:05 WIB
Trucks Account for 34.96% of PM2.5 Emissions from Jakarta's Transport Sector
A study by the Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB) has identified diesel vehicles, particularly trucks, as the main source of PM2.5 emissions from Jakarta's transport sector. The findings indicate that transport contributes 59.3% of the capital's air pollution, with diesel vehicles accounting for 33.1% and petrol vehicles 26.2%. Researchers are urging targeted policies, including the installation of diesel particulate filters and fleet renewal, to address the regional challenge posed by heavy vehicle mobility.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 15:04 WIB
Video: Medical Tourism, World-Class Beauty Clinic Invests in Bali
The Indonesian government is promoting Sanur, Bali as a Special Economic Zone for health and medical tourism. The Solitaire, a plastic surgery and aesthetic medicine clinic, has opened in the zone to support the development of a world-class health and wellness area. Its strategy and operational director discusses the clinic's investment approach in an interview with CNBC Indonesia.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 15:04 WIB
Muhammadiyah Kicks Off 'Rojolele Reborn' to Revive Klaten's Legendary Rice
Muhammadiyah's Community Empowerment Council has launched a programme to revive the legendary Rojolele rice variety in Klaten, Central Java, in collaboration with PT Danone Indonesia. The initiative aims to rebuild the agricultural ecosystem from upstream to downstream, with an initial target of five hectares and a guaranteed market through pre-orders from Muhammadiyah institutions. The programme seeks to restore farmer confidence after the Covid-19 pandemic caused a sharp decline in Rojolele cultivation.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 15:04 WIB
Rupiah Closes 0.48% Stronger, US Dollar Falls to Rp17,740
The Indonesian rupiah extended its gains for a second consecutive day, appreciating 0.48% to close at Rp17,740 per US dollar on Thursday. The currency was supported by a weaker dollar after the US Treasury announced plans to double its long-term bond buyback operations to ease market volatility. Bank Indonesia's decision to hold its benchmark rate at 5.75% also provided policy certainty for investors.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 15:03 WIB
Bank Aceh Syariah disburses Rp157.4 billion in civil servant pension funds in Aceh
PT Bank Aceh Syariah has disbursed Rp157.4 billion in pension payments to 45,688 civil servants in Aceh as of August 2026, following a strengthened partnership with PT Taspen. The bank received a 'very good' rating in evaluations of its cooperation with Taspen, which covers old-age savings, pensions, work accident insurance and death benefits. Bank Aceh also plans to empower pensioners through MSME activities and expand collaboration with district and city governments.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 15:03 WIB
Bekasi River Polluted Again, Water Turns Black and Foamy
The Bekasi River in West Java has been polluted once more, with residents reporting blackened water, extensive foam, and foul odours. Local water utility Tirta Patriot has warned that the decline in raw water quality is affecting production at its Teluk Buyung treatment plant and reducing clean water supply to customers. The central and regional environmental agencies are coordinating a response.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 15:02 WIB
Bandung Mayor Welcomes Central Government Plan to Take Over PPPK Teachers: We Await Its Realisation
Bandung Mayor Muhammad Farhan has welcomed the central government's plan to take over the authority for part-time and full-time PPPK teachers, saying it would ease the city's fiscal burden. He noted that Bandung spends hundreds of billions of rupiah annually on PPPK teachers. Farhan also proposed making Bandung a destination for Indonesia's International Financial Centre and said the city would adopt a budget deficit concept similar to West Java Province.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 15:02 WIB
Indonesia-China to Meet Tomorrow, Taiwan and Natuna in Focus
Indonesia and China are set to hold their first Comprehensive Strategic Dialogue and a 2+2 meeting of foreign and defence ministers, with economic cooperation, investment, and regional security on the agenda. Officials stressed that the timing is a scheduled diplomatic engagement rather than a response to recent tensions around Taiwan. Maritime cooperation, including the Natuna issue and joint development commitments, will also be discussed.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 15:02 WIB
West Java BPBD deploys 20 personnel to assist NTT earthquake victims
The West Java Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) has dispatched 20 personnel to Nusa Tenggara Timur to support earthquake response efforts. The team will conduct assessments and coordinate with local authorities to ensure aid from West Java is distributed effectively. The deployment follows a directive from the West Java Governor to ensure community donations are channelled in a planned and needs-based manner.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 15:01 WIB
Bakom affirms no discourse on making BI part of government
The Indonesian Government Communication Agency (Bakom RI) has dismissed speculation about placing Bank Indonesia under government control, citing constitutional protections for the central bank's independence. Senior expert Fithra Faisal Hastiadi emphasised that independence does not preclude coordination between fiscal and monetary authorities. He noted that the government and BI pursue different objectives, with the former focused on growth and welfare and the latter on monetary stability.