Archive: 20 August 2026
Showing 1,001-1,050 of 1,593 articles
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 13:47 WIB
Forestry Minister Praises Teenager Who Helped Extinguish Forest Fires in Palangka Raya
Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni has commended Rudiansyah, a teenager who assisted in fighting forest and land fires in Palangka Raya while dressed as Superman. The minister described him as a 'forest hero' and conveyed greetings from President Prabowo Subianto. The government emphasised the importance of community participation in both preventing and tackling forest fires.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 13:46 WIB
Zulhas hands over operational vehicles for Banyuwangi TPS3R
Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan has delivered operational vehicles to the Balak Reduce, Reuse, Recycle waste processing site (TPS3R) in Banyuwangi, East Java. The assistance, donated by the UAE-based Clean Rivers organisation, includes 21 three-wheeled motorcycles, 12 pick-up trucks, two armroll trucks and five armroll containers. The facility processes 84 tonnes of waste per day and serves 64 villages across 10 sub-districts.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 13:46 WIB
House Commission XIII opens possibility of forming special body to handle human trafficking
House of Representatives Commission XIII is considering the establishment of a dedicated agency to tackle human trafficking, citing the crime's classification as an extraordinary offence. The proposal may be discussed during the revision of Law No. 21 of 2007 on human trafficking. Commission chairman Willy Aditya said stronger coordination is needed at bilateral, multilateral and ASEAN levels.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 13:46 WIB
RSUD dr. Ben Mboy Runs Out of Medicine, Dozens of Patients Treated in Emergency Tents
RSUD dr. Ben Mboy in Ruteng, Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, is facing critical shortages of medicine and medical equipment following the 7.7 magnitude earthquake. The hospital has relocated 35 patients to emergency tents after the main building sustained structural damage, while continuing essential services including surgery and dialysis. Hospital officials are appealing for additional supplies, particularly painkillers, basic medical equipment, blankets and chairs.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 13:45 WIB
EU leaders reaffirm support for ICC after US imposes sanctions
European Union leaders have expressed firm backing for the International Criminal Court following the United States' decision to sanction the court's president and a senior lawyer. The EU emphasised that ICC judges and officials must be able to work independently and without external pressure. The US sanctions target ICC President Tomoko Akane and Senior Trial Lawyer Abdoulaye Seye over the court's investigations involving officials from countries that do not recognise its jurisdiction.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 13:45 WIB
3,422 Aftershocks Rock Flores, NTT
More than 3,400 aftershocks have been recorded in Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, following the magnitude 7.7 earthquake on 15 August. The largest aftershock measured magnitude 6.2, with a magnitude 5.8 tremor striking on Thursday morning. BMKG has urged residents to remain calm and rely only on verified official information.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 13:43 WIB
Pretrial Hearing: Lodewyk Pusung Claims No Intervention in BGN Procurement
Lodewyk Pusung, a suspect in the alleged corruption case surrounding the Free Nutritious Meals programme, has denied any involvement in procurement processes at the National Nutrition Agency. Speaking at a pretrial hearing in Central Jakarta, he argued that as a deputy he was never invited to procurement meetings and received nothing from the contracts. The hearing concerns the legality of asset seizures by the Attorney General's Office.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 13:42 WIB
Supreme Energy: LCOE or IRR can be considered in geothermal pricing
PT Supreme Energy has proposed that levelized cost of energy (LCOE) or target internal rate of return (IRR) be considered when setting electricity prices for geothermal power plants. The company highlighted that power purchase agreements are signed before reservoir conditions are fully known, creating significant financial risk. Supreme Energy also acknowledged government and PLN support for exploration de-risking, including government drilling and grant financing.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 13:41 WIB
Pramono Targets 10,000 Electric Buses on Jakarta Roads by 2030
Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has set a target of deploying 10,000 electric buses in the capital by 2030, up from around 500 currently in operation. The plan forms part of Jakarta's strategy to cut transport emissions, which accounted for 52% of the city's direct emissions in 2024. Pramono also highlighted rising public transport usage, now above 31%, driven by fare exemptions for 15 community groups and the Transjabodetabek suburban service.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 13:41 WIB
Anambas nearly two months into drought, police distribute four tonnes of water
Police in the Anambas Islands have distributed four tonnes of clean water to at least 200 residents affected by a drought that has lasted nearly two months. The distribution took place in Tanjung Momong and Antang, Siantan District, as part of a community policing patrol. Officers also urged residents to conserve water and maintain public order.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 13:40 WIB
PGE's Grand Ambition: To Become the World's No.1 Geothermal Company by 2034!
PT Pertamina Geothermal Energy Tbk (PGEO) has set a target to become the world's largest geothermal company by 2034, with installed capacity of 1.8 GW. The company plans to accelerate existing projects and expand beyond electricity into green hydrogen and direct-use applications. PGE also highlighted its strong operational performance and top ESG rating as foundations for its growth strategy.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 13:39 WIB
Hongqi becomes first brand outside BYD to use Blade Battery 2.0
Hongqi, the premium marque of China's FAW Group, is set to become the first brand outside BYD to adopt the second-generation Blade Battery, following the FAW-FinDreams joint venture reaching stable mass production. The move marks a significant shift as Blade Battery 2.0 and Megawatt fast-charging technology were previously exclusive to BYD vehicles. The partnership, with a total investment of 180 billion yuan, is expected to reshape competition in China's battery technology landscape.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 13:37 WIB
Manggarai Residents Block NTB Baznas Logistics Vehicle After Not Receiving Aid
Around 80 residents of Ladur and Riung villages in Manggarai, East Nusa Tenggara, stopped a logistics convoy from the NTB Amil Zakat Agency after claiming they had received no assistance since a 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck on 15 August 2026. The Baznas NTB team ultimately handed over all food supplies on the spot after dialogue with residents and local community leaders. The incident highlights gaps in disaster relief distribution in the affected region.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 13:36 WIB
Manggarai Earthquake Response: Social Ministry Builds Dozens of Tents and Distributes Food Packages
Indonesia's Ministry of Social Affairs has intensified relief efforts for victims of the Manggarai earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara, distributing over 15,000 meals and 1,000 food packages since 17 August 2026. The ministry has also erected 34 tents across multiple locations, including hospitals and health centres, to provide shelter for displaced residents. Minister Saifullah Yusuf confirmed that an additional public kitchen will be opened in Ranaka Village to serve around 705 evacuees, with further assessments planned for areas not yet reached by aid.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 13:36 WIB
NTT Earthquake Update: 72 Dead, 900 Injured
The death toll from the earthquake in Nusa Tenggara Timur has risen to 72, with 900 injured and over 82,000 displaced, according to the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB). The 7.7 magnitude quake struck on 15 August, causing extensive damage to homes, schools, health facilities and infrastructure. The provincial government has declared a 14-day emergency response period, while BNPB warns that aftershocks may continue for two to three weeks.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 13:36 WIB
Restricting Fuel Subsidies for Decile 10 Could Save 10 Percent of Energy Budget
Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has announced plans to restrict subsidised fuel distribution for the wealthiest decile of society, projecting savings of around 10 percent of the energy subsidy budget. The policy aims to improve targeting rather than impose blanket cuts, with a trial expected within months. Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia added that restrictions on Pertalite for deciles 9 and 10 remain under review.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 13:35 WIB
Palopo City Government and State-Owned Guarantee Firm Strengthen Synergy
Palopo's economy grew 8.9% year-on-year in the first quarter of 2026, driven by government administration and public consumption. In response, state-owned insurer Askrindo has signed a cooperation agreement with the Palopo city government to provide surety bonds and general insurance. The partnership also aims to protect local MSMEs and, in future, fishermen through micro insurance.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 13:35 WIB
Kelapa Gading–Velodrome LRT Fare Set at Rp 5,000; How Much to Manggarai?
The Jakarta LRT extension from Velodrome to Manggarai is on track for inauguration in August, connecting Kelapa Gading to Manggarai in approximately 28 minutes across 11 stations. Fares for the new route remain under review and will be determined by the DKI Jakarta provincial government. The existing Kelapa Gading–Velodrome route charges a flat fare of Rp 5,000 per journey under Gubernatorial Regulation No. 34 of 2019.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 13:34 WIB
Cleft lip patients in East Jakarta undergo post-operative check-ups and therapy
Patients who underwent cleft lip and palate surgery at Ciracas Regional General Hospital in East Jakarta are now receiving follow-up check-ups and speech therapy as part of their recovery. The hospital aims to complete treatment in a single operation through cooperation between Smile Train and the Indonesian Plastic Surgery Association. Of the 21 children operated on, 18 were East Jakarta residents.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 13:34 WIB
298 Forest and Land Fires in Palangka Raya Since June, 261.41 Hectares Burned
The Palangka Raya city government has recorded 298 forest and land fire incidents between 1 June and 19 August 2026, burning approximately 261.41 hectares across several sub-districts. Jekan Raya sub-district recorded the highest number of incidents with 188 fires, followed by Sebangau with 68. The local disaster mitigation agency is intensifying prevention efforts, including routine patrols, public education, and cross-agency coordination to curb further outbreaks during the dry season.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 13:34 WIB
CLGS FH UI: Price Ceiling Setting Will Prevent Market Failure
The Centre for Law and Good Governance Studies at the University of Indonesia argues that government intervention in setting prices or tariffs is a legitimate tool to protect consumers and prevent market failure. The discussion focused on cases involving chicken prices and online lending interest rate caps, where such interventions were initially deemed cartel-like by the competition watchdog. The centre recommends that the KPPU provide advice to other government bodies when regulations may potentially breach competition rules.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 13:33 WIB
KPK Summons Several South Sumatra BPK Employees in Muara Enim Regent Bribery Case
Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned several civil servants from the South Sumatra representative office of the Supreme Audit Agency (BPK) as witnesses in a bribery case involving the suspended Regent of Muara Enim, Edison. The case concerns alleged bribes related to an audit of the Muara Enim regional government. Edison was previously arrested in a sting operation and named a suspect along with several other individuals.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 13:33 WIB
Social Affairs Ministry Opens Public Kitchen and Supplies Logistics in Nagekeo
The Ministry of Social Affairs is providing emergency assistance to earthquake victims in Nagekeo Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, operating a public kitchen and distributing logistics across seven affected sub-districts. As of 19 August, 3,042 families or 12,170 people have been affected, with six deaths reported. The ministry will provide compensation of Rp15 million to the heirs of each verified deceased victim.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 13:33 WIB
US national debt surpasses 40 trillion dollars
The United States' national debt has exceeded 40 trillion dollars for the first time, according to Treasury Department data. The milestone reflects persistent federal budget deficits, with net interest payments now exceeding defence spending. Fiscal watchdogs warn the trajectory is unsustainable and threatens long-term American prosperity.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 13:33 WIB
Iran warns West Asian countries against aiding US Army
Iran's armed forces chief has cautioned countries in West Asia against providing any assistance to the US military, which Tehran describes as aggressive. The warning comes amid heightened regional tensions following earlier joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran and subsequent Iranian retaliation. A ceasefire was reached in April, and Iran and the US signed a memorandum of understanding in June to end hostilities on all fronts.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 13:32 WIB
Trump Makes New Breakthrough, Prepares World's Largest 'Economic War'
US President Donald Trump has threatened to launch what he calls the most devastating economic operation ever conducted against any country, targeting Iran and warning third parties against helping Tehran evade sanctions. The threat expands the 'Operation Economic Fury' campaign that has been running since April, though analysts question its effectiveness given China's deep financial and logistical ties with Iran. Shipping through the Strait of Hormuz remains far below pre-war levels, keeping oil markets sensitive to any escalation.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 13:32 WIB
Pramono Orders Jakarta Weather Modification for Friday: Clouds Expected Tomorrow
Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has instructed his staff to conduct cloud seeding operations on Friday, citing forecasts of rain clouds. He acknowledged that previous attempts have not always produced rain, but argued that the effort remains worthwhile if it can increase rainfall without causing flooding.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 13:32 WIB
Indonesia, Germany strengthen energy and skills cooperation
Indonesia and Germany have agreed to deepen cooperation in renewable energy and vocational training, building on a long-standing economic partnership. Coordinating Minister Airlangga Hartarto highlighted the presence of over 250 German companies and US$1.2 billion in cumulative investment, while urging faster progress on Indonesia's US$21.4 billion Just Energy Transition Partnership. German officials reaffirmed their commitment to supporting sustainable development and expanding training opportunities for young Indonesians.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 13:32 WIB
BI Acting Governor highlights sluggish MSME lending, urges banks to boost credit
Bank Indonesia Acting Governor Destry Damayanti has called on banks to increase lending to micro, small and medium enterprises after MSME credit grew only 1.62 percent year-on-year. She stressed the sector's strategic role, with 64 million MSMEs absorbing 97 percent of the workforce and contributing more than 60 percent to GDP. The central bank is promoting three main strategies through its 46 domestic and five overseas representative offices to help MSMEs scale up.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 13:31 WIB
OIKN Receives Rp6.7 Trillion Allocation in 2027 Draft State Budget
The Nusantara Capital City Authority (OIKN) has been allocated Rp6.72 trillion in the 2027 Draft State Budget, an increase from Rp6.26 trillion in 2026. The funds are earmarked for management support and strategic area development programmes. The government has directed Kalimantan's development to strengthen its role as a strategic hub in reducing regional inequality and supporting the 'Nusantara Economic Superhub' vision.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 13:30 WIB
Australian researchers target ultra-processed foods and sugary drinks
A new five-year Australian research programme will examine policies aimed at reducing consumption of ultra-processed foods and sugary drinks, as obesity and diet-related chronic diseases place growing strain on the health system. Funded by a National Health and Medical Research Council grant, the study will evaluate front-of-pack warning labels and provide data on consumption patterns and public attitudes towards regulation. Researchers will work closely with policymakers to translate findings into evidence-based recommendations.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 13:30 WIB
DPD RI Chairman Receives Russian Senator, Discusses Education Cooperation
DPD RI Chairman Sultan Najamudin met with Russian Senator Ilyas Umakhanov in Jakarta to discuss expanding educational cooperation between Indonesia and Russia. The meeting follows a productive earlier engagement with the Chair of Russia's Federation Council, which produced a memorandum covering cooperation across various fields. Both sides noted growing Indonesian student interest in Russian higher education, particularly in technology, science, robotics, and nuclear studies.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 13:30 WIB
US President Donald Trump Announces Total Economic War Against Iran
US President Donald Trump has declared a massive economic operation aimed at completely isolating Iran from the global financial and trading system. The campaign, described as an unprecedented 'economic D-Day', targets sectors and activities that sustain Tehran's economy. Trump also warned that any country or private entity assisting Iran would face severe economic consequences from the United States.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 13:30 WIB
Dengue Cases in Klaten Drop Significantly in 2026, Residents Urged to Remain Vigilant
Dengue haemorrhagic fever cases in Klaten Regency, Central Java, have fallen sharply in 2026, with 124 cases and one death recorded up to week 32, compared with 419 cases and three deaths in the same period last year. The local health office attributes the decline to greater community participation in mosquito nest eradication and the work of larval monitoring officers. Residents are nonetheless urged to maintain environmental cleanliness and continue prevention efforts.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 13:29 WIB
High School Student Killed by Commuter Train in West Jakarta While Riding Pillion with Father
An 18-year-old high school student died after being struck by a commuter line train at a level crossing in Kalideres, West Jakarta. The victim was riding pillion on a motorcycle driven by his father when the collision occurred. Police are still investigating the incident and have not yet provided details on the father's condition.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 13:29 WIB
Aquatics Indonesia supports limited dual citizenship for diaspora
The Indonesian Aquatics Federation (PB Akuatik Indonesia) has expressed support for the government's proposal to grant limited dual citizenship to talented diaspora athletes. The federation believes the policy could help strengthen Indonesia's national teams in international competitions. It emphasised that selection would remain based on performance and potential, citing swimmers Masniari Wolf and Felix Viktor Iberle as successful examples.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 13:29 WIB
Sirpangbolon Residents Complain of Pungent Odour from Rubber Warehouse in Residential Area
Residents of Sirpangbolon Village in North Tapanuli, North Sumatra, are protesting against a rubber collection warehouse operating in the middle of their residential area, citing a pungent odour and inadequate waste management. They allege the warehouse owner is related to the village head, leaving them feeling powerless to object. Residents are urging the North Tapanuli Environmental Agency to conduct an inspection and verify the facility's permits and environmental compliance.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 13:28 WIB
DPR considers transfer of PPPK teacher status a breakthrough in education governance
A House of Representatives member has welcomed the government's decision to transfer hundreds of thousands of contract teachers to central government employment, calling it a breakthrough for national education governance. The policy is expected to ease the financial burden on regional governments while providing greater job certainty for teachers. The lawmaker also urged the government to prepare a simulation for implementing a Constitutional Court ruling on free primary and secondary education.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 13:28 WIB
Musim Mas Receives Mahayuga Award 2026 as Green Industry Pioneer
Musim Mas, an integrated palm oil company based in Indonesia, has been awarded the Mahayuga Award 2026 by Garuda TV in the Green Industry Pioneer category. The award recognises the company's commitment to sustainability, including methane capture initiatives, smallholder empowerment, and validated emissions reduction targets. The accolade was presented by Indonesia's Environment Minister, Mohammad Jumhur Hidayat, alongside the Rector of the University of Indonesia.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 13:27 WIB
KPK Summons Former Customs Official as Witness in Import Bribery Case
Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned a former customs enforcement official as a witness in the ongoing investigation into alleged import bribery at the Directorate General of Customs and Excise. The case originated from a sting operation and has already resulted in convictions for private sector defendants, while several customs officials are still on trial. A new suspect has also been named in connection with the case.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 13:26 WIB
Nine children in Sleman exposed to radicalism via social media
The Sleman Regency Government in Yogyakarta has rehabilitated nine school-age children exposed to radical ideologies and extreme violent content between 2025 and 2026. The children, aged 12 to 17, were mostly radicalised independently through smartphones and social media groups such as WhatsApp. Authorities are prioritising rehabilitation over criminal prosecution and have launched prevention programmes in schools.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 13:25 WIB
Finance Minister: Fuel subsidy restrictions could save 10 percent of budget
Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has said that plans to restrict fuel subsidies for the top income decile could save around 10 percent of the energy subsidy budget. The government has allocated Rp210.1 trillion for energy subsidies in the 2026 state budget, with total energy security spending reaching Rp381.3 trillion when compensation is included. Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia confirmed that restrictions on Pertalite for the ninth and tenth deciles remain under review.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 13:25 WIB
Energy Sovereignty at 81 Years of Indonesian Independence: Optimising Natural Gas and Aggressive Upstream Oil and Gas Exploration are Key
As Indonesia marks 81 years of independence, energy sovereignty is highlighted as a critical pillar requiring accelerated upstream oil and gas exploration to reduce reliance on imported crude and fuel. Officials emphasise the strategic role of natural gas as a low-emission transition fuel and the need for regulatory certainty, fiscal incentives, and investment to boost production. Complementary efforts include legalising community-managed oil wells and streamlining project approvals to expedite monetisation.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 13:25 WIB
Why Kalimantan Suffers Severe Forest Fires, According to Researchers
Researchers attribute the recurring severe forest and land fires in Kalimantan primarily to human activities such as slash-and-burn land clearing and illegal logging, exacerbated by dry conditions and the El Nino phenomenon. The 2015 fires, which burned 2.6 million hectares, caused dozens of deaths and hundreds of thousands of respiratory illness cases. Experts call for long-term prevention strategies focusing on socio-economic improvements and sustainable land management.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 13:24 WIB
Ministry of Social Affairs: Earthquake does not disrupt activities at Sekolah Rakyat in NTT
The Ministry of Social Affairs has confirmed that the Sekolah Rakyat programme in East Nusa Tenggara remains operational following the 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck the province. The facility in Kupang Regency was outside the main disaster zone, while other regencies are still in the preparatory stage. The ministry continues to accelerate disaster relief efforts, including field kitchens and logistics distribution across seven affected regencies.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 13:24 WIB
The Story of the Bongal Site in Central Tapanuli: From Gold Finds to Umayyad Coins
The Bongal archaeological site in Central Tapanuli, North Sumatra, has attracted significant attention due to discoveries that could reshape the timeline of Islam's arrival in the Indonesian archipelago. Excavations have unearthed artefacts including coins dating from the 7th to 8th centuries CE. The site's history is intertwined with local settlement patterns and colonial-era land use.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 13:24 WIB
81st Indonesian Independence Day: UBSI Rector Stresses Importance of Collaboration and Real Contribution
The Rector of Universitas Bina Sarana Informatika (UBSI) attended the 81st Indonesian Independence Day ceremony organised by LLDikti Region III Jakarta, emphasising the role of higher education in filling independence through quality education, innovation, and community contribution. The event brought together around 1,500 participants from various Jakarta campuses, with officials highlighting the need for stronger collaboration between universities, government, industry, and society. UBSI reaffirmed its commitment as a 'Creative Digital Campus' to developing adaptive, competent human resources with national character.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 13:22 WIB
Gold Bank Development Continues, Tax Rules for Gold ETFs Still Under Discussion
Indonesia's gold bank ecosystem is expanding, but tax treatment for gold exchange-traded funds remains unresolved. The Directorate General of Taxes is still reviewing income tax and VAT rules for gold ETFs, including whether a final income tax scheme should apply. The government is also examining redemption mechanisms and whether ETF transactions should be subject to VAT.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 13:22 WIB
Agriculture Minister urges Untad graduates to become job creators
Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman has called on graduates of Tadulako University in Central Sulawesi to become entrepreneurs and job creators rather than job seekers. He highlighted the region's vast agricultural potential and announced government support including free hand tractors and seedlings. The minister also outlined a Rp9.5 trillion programme to develop seven strategic commodities across 870,000 hectares of smallholder plantations from 2025 to 2027.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 13:22 WIB
MAKI: Febrie Adriansyah's Pretrial Motion Proves Ownership of 74 kg of Gold
MAKI coordinator Boyamin Saiman argues that former Jampidsus Febrie Adriansyah's pretrial motion implicitly confirms his ownership of 74 kilograms of gold and nearly Rp500 billion in cash seized by police. Boyamin contends the request for return of assets strengthens the corruption and money laundering case against Febrie. He also highlighted family photographs seized from the Sentul house as strong evidence linking Febrie to the property.