Archive: 20 August 2026
Showing 1,101-1,150 of 1,593 articles
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 12:53 WIB
Finance Minister Purbaya Prepares Rp31 Trillion for Transfer of PPPK to Central Government
Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has announced that the government has allocated Rp31 trillion to support the transfer of regional contract-based civil servants (PPPK) to central government employment. The funds have been secured through budget reallocation without affecting the 2027 state budget deficit target of 2.4% of GDP. The transition will be phased, with approximately 541,000 PPPK expected to shift status in the initial stage.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 12:50 WIB
Indonesia's EV and Data Centre Boom: Factories Flock to These Regions
Demand for industrial land in Greater Jakarta during the first half of 2026 was driven by data centres, food and beverage, manufacturing, and electric vehicle-related industries. Bekasi and Karawang remained the dominant sub-markets for land transactions, while Purwakarta, Cilegon, and Serang attracted sector-specific activity. The growth of the digital economy and the EV ecosystem is diversifying industrial land demand and pushing expansion eastward towards Subang.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 12:48 WIB
Ministry of Manpower and BSI to strengthen labour ecosystem cooperation
Indonesia's Ministry of Manpower (Kemnaker) and PT Bank Syariah Indonesia (BSI) are preparing to expand their cooperation to strengthen the labour ecosystem, focusing on job market services, competency improvement, apprenticeships, and empowerment of independent workers. The partnership builds on a memorandum of understanding signed in March 2025 and a subsequent agreement on job market services in April 2026. Both parties aim to develop more concrete programmes, including vocational training, job matching, and support for independent workers through BSI's UMKM Centre.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 12:48 WIB
Independence Means Digital Sovereignty
An Indonesian academic argues that true independence for the nation's youth now requires moving beyond being mere technology consumers to becoming creators and innovators. He calls on universities to instil ethical awareness and social responsibility in technology education. The piece frames digital sovereignty as a strategic national investment and a continuation of the struggle for independence.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 12:47 WIB
BRI Insurance Strengthens Business Foundation to Drive Sustainable Growth
PT BRI Asuransi Indonesia (BRI Insurance) has received the Titanium Champion award at the Insurance Award 2026 for maintaining excellent performance for 15 consecutive years from 2012 to 2026. The award recognises the company's consistent performance based on systematic, data-driven assessment aligned with regulatory requirements. BRI Insurance's president director attributed the achievement to the company's efforts to strengthen its business foundation and maintain sustainable corporate governance.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 12:47 WIB
Karawang BPBD distributes 828,000 litres of clean water to 15 villages
The Karawang Regency Disaster Mitigation Agency (BPBD) has distributed 828,000 litres of clean water to 15 drought-affected villages across five sub-districts in West Java. A total of 17,882 residents from 5,853 families have been impacted by water shortages during this year's dry season. The distribution effort combines direct BPBD deliveries with collaboration involving the regional water company, the Indonesian Red Cross, and the national zakat agency.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 12:47 WIB
Culture Ministry and indigenous communities collaborate to develop and protect culture
Indonesia's Ministry of Culture is strengthening collaboration with indigenous communities and civil society organisations to develop a unified database on indigenous peoples. The initiative aims to support the recognition, protection, and advancement of indigenous rights by consolidating data currently scattered across various ministries and institutions. A cooperation agreement was signed with the Ancestral Domain Registration Agency (BRWA) to enhance collaborative data provision and updating.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 12:46 WIB
Baznas and Ministry of Population and Family Development Launch ZCD Programme to Improve Mustahik Welfare
Indonesia's National Amil Zakat Agency (Baznas) and the Ministry of Population and Family Development/BKKBN have launched the Zakat Community Development (ZCD) programme to enhance the welfare of zakat beneficiaries. The initiative integrates economic, health, education, and religious aspects to accelerate stunting reduction and promote family economic independence. Pilot projects have already disbursed Rp1.391 billion to 23 community groups, with plans to expand to 11 districts/cities across 8 provinces.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 12:45 WIB
Trump Threatens "Most Devastating Economic War"
US President Donald Trump has announced what he describes as the most devastating economic operation ever conducted against any nation, targeting Iran. He warned that any country assisting Iran would face severe economic consequences. The announcement comes amid ongoing disputes over the Strait of Hormuz and uncertainty surrounding negotiations following the expiry of a 60-day memorandum of understanding.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 12:45 WIB
Forest and Land Fires in Central Kalimantan Reach 148 Hectares, Triggering Over 66,000 Respiratory Infection Cases
Forest and land fires in Central Kalimantan have burned 148.71 hectares, with over 10,000 personnel deployed to combat the blazes. The resulting haze has led to 66,679 recorded cases of acute respiratory infections. The regional disaster agency has urged the public to refrain from open burning and to protect their health from smoke exposure.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 12:45 WIB
OpenAI releases 'ChatGPT for Teens', a safer AI chatbot for teenagers
OpenAI has launched ChatGPT for Teens, a dedicated version of its AI chatbot with additional safety measures and a new Study Mode designed to encourage learning rather than cheating. The app includes age-appropriate protections, parental controls, and features aimed at addressing concerns over AI's impact on education and teenage mental health.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 12:45 WIB
Sefas Group to Acquire 100% of Shell Petrol Station Business in Indonesia, Completion Targeted This Year
Sefas Group has agreed to acquire the entire Shell petrol station business in Indonesia, with the transaction expected to close this year pending government approvals. The company, already Shell's largest lubricant distributor in the country, aims to strengthen its position in the national energy retail sector. Shell will maintain its brand presence through a licensing arrangement.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 12:45 WIB
Indonesia partners with Germany to supply MMS for pregnant women to reduce stunting
Indonesia's Ministry of Health has partnered with the German Federal Government and PT Bayer Indonesia to locally produce Multiple Micronutrient Supplements (MMS) for pregnant women as part of efforts to reduce stunting. The facility in Cimanggis, backed by a Rp99 billion investment, can produce up to 1.2 billion tablets annually, enough to meet domestic demand and export to 42 countries. The plant also features rooftop solar panels covering 1.66 hectares, supplying 43 percent of its energy needs and cutting carbon emissions by 2,073 tonnes per year.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 12:44 WIB
Tantowi Yahya to Hold Strings of Equator Concerts in Norway, Spain, and the Netherlands
Musician, politician, and former ambassador Tantowi Yahya has announced a European concert tour titled Strings of Equator: A Musical Journey to Indonesia, running from 24 August to 7 September 2026. The tour will visit Norway, Spain, and the Netherlands, combining musical performances with cultural diplomacy. The initiative aims to promote Indonesian tourism and investment to European audiences.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 12:42 WIB
Depok Mutilation Case: Police Examine Leg Fragment at Kramat Jati Police Hospital
Jakarta police are forensically examining a body part, believed to be a human leg, found in a Depok river as part of an ongoing mutilation investigation. The discovery may be linked to the search for the missing lower limbs of victim Kunaefi, whose torso was found in a sack in Tanah Merah. Investigators continue to face challenges from strong water currents and uncertainty over the exact disposal point.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 12:41 WIB
UN voices concern over US sanctions on senior ICC officials
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has expressed deep concern over the United States' decision to impose sanctions on two senior officials of the International Criminal Court. The sanctions target ICC President Tomoko Akane and senior trial lawyer Abdoulaye Seye. The UN regards the ICC as a key pillar of international criminal justice despite the two institutions being separate.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 12:40 WIB
Airlangga: Decile category indicators based on economic survey and DTSEN
Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has stated that decile categorisation for social assistance will be based on the economic survey and the National Socio-Economic Single Data (DTSEN). He emphasised that data is dynamic and the ongoing economic survey will determine updated classifications. The DTSEN integrates multiple government databases to assess social and economic conditions, which are used to target social protection programmes.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 12:40 WIB
China pledges constructive role for peace on Korean Peninsula
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has assured Seoul that Beijing will play a constructive role in securing peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula. The commitment came during talks with South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun, who sought China's help in bringing North Korea back to dialogue. The meeting took place ahead of Wang's scheduled talks with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 12:40 WIB
Election Law Revision: Democrat Reveals Party Secretaries-General Have Held Meeting
Deputy Chairman of House Commission II Dede Yusuf has confirmed that political party secretaries-general have met to discuss the revision of the Election Law. The Commission is awaiting the outcome of these discussions before commencing formal deliberations. Yusuf noted that election stages are still some time away, with the more urgent matter being the appointment of election organisers, which falls under the government's remit.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 12:38 WIB
House Deputy Speaker Appreciates Government Policy on PPPK Teacher Arrangement
Deputy Speaker of House Commission II Bahtra Banong has praised the government's policy providing certainty for teachers, particularly regarding the arrangement and fulfilment of PPPK teacher needs. He said the policy demonstrates President Prabowo Subianto's responsiveness to teachers' aspirations. The policy includes opportunities for PPPK teachers to become civil servants and for part-time PPPK teachers to be appointed full-time.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 12:37 WIB
Scholars' Views on Praising the Government during Friday Sermons
A scholar has highlighted that excessively praising the government during Friday sermons is a mistake, noting that such practice did not exist during the time of the Prophet Muhammad or the Rashidun Caliphs. Imam An Nawawi considered exaggerated praise of rulers in sermons as makruh, though moderate supplication for leaders is permissible.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 12:35 WIB
Jakarta LRT Ready for Inauguration, Kelapa Gading–Manggarai in Just 28 Minutes
The Jakarta LRT Velodrome–Manggarai extension is nearing completion and is scheduled for inauguration in August 2026, pending final direction from the DKI Jakarta provincial government. Once operational, the journey from Kelapa Gading to Manggarai will take approximately 28 minutes across 11 stations. Fares for the new route are still under review, and construction of a further extension to Dukuh Atas is planned to begin next year.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 12:34 WIB
PGE CEO and Strategy to Harness 40% of World's Geothermal Potential in Indonesia
PT Pertamina Geothermal Energy's CEO Ahmad Yani outlined the company's strategy to accelerate geothermal development in Indonesia, which holds 40% of the world's geothermal potential. Speaking at the 2026 IIGCE, he emphasised geothermal's role in national energy security and transition, with PGE targeting 1.8 GW of capacity by 2034. The company is also exploring new business opportunities including green hydrogen and community economic development.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 12:34 WIB
PGE Accelerates Geothermal Development to 1.8 GW, Becoming the World's Largest
PT Pertamina Geothermal Energy (PGE) is accelerating its geothermal capacity expansion, targeting 1 GW by 2028 and 1.8 GW by 2034, which would make it the largest geothermal company in the world. Indonesia currently utilises only 11% of its 24,000 MW geothermal potential, with installed capacity at 2.7 GW and a national target of 5.2 GW by 2034. PGE is also exploring new business opportunities in the geothermal supply chain, including green hydrogen projects.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 12:33 WIB
The Need for Accurate Methane Data to Unravel the Waste Problem
Indonesia's waste sector is a significant source of methane emissions, with 96 percent of landfills still using open dumping. WRI Indonesia's SMART Waste Indonesia initiative is handing over study results to the Ministry of Environment, proposing more precise Tier 2 IPCC methods and modern monitoring tools. The initiative aims to strengthen data accuracy to support national mitigation policies and the Global Methane Pledge target.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 12:33 WIB
JCI Surges 1.47% in First Session, Approaching 6,500 Level
The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) rose more than 1% in Thursday's first trading session, driven by commodity and mining stocks. Bank Indonesia's decision to hold its benchmark rate at 5.75% and a weaker US dollar provided support. Investors are also monitoring global sentiment, including US Treasury yields and commodity prices.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 12:32 WIB
Whoosh subscription card sales hit highest monthly record
Sales of the Frequent Whoosher Card for Indonesia's Whoosh high-speed rail reached a monthly record of 3,366 cards in July, bringing the two-year total to 47,577. The Gold category for the Jakarta-Bandung route remains the most popular, offering discounted premium economy fares. KCIC has also introduced a special Independence Day edition card to boost uptake.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 12:32 WIB
Caught on CCTV: Groping Attack Targets Woman Jogging in Sewon, Bantul
Police in Bantul have confirmed a groping incident targeting a female jogger in Pendowoharjo, Sewon, after CCTV footage circulated on social media. Officers have inspected the scene but the victim has not yet filed a report. Authorities are urging her to come forward so a formal investigation can begin.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 12:32 WIB
Israel Claims It Warned Turkey Before Striking Syrian Military Base
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has stated that Israel warned Turkey against military activity in Syria before striking an airbase reportedly sought by Ankara. The attack has drawn condemnation from Turkey, Syria, and the United States, while Israel insists it will not tolerate a Turkish military build-up moving southwards. The incident adds further complexity to the already tense relations between Israel, Turkey, and Syria's new government.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 12:30 WIB
Former PGN CEO sentenced to four years in prison for gas trading corruption
Hendi Prio Santoso, former president director of state gas company PT PGN, has been sentenced to four years in prison for corruption related to a gas sale and purchase agreement. The Jakarta Corruption Court found that he received SGD 500,000 from Arso Sadewo in connection with the disbursement of cooperation funds, causing state losses of USD 15 million. The sentence was one year lighter than the five years sought by prosecutors.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 12:29 WIB
Kreasi 2026 UNM Becomes a Stage for the Golden Generation, Jabodetabek Students Showcase Talent and Sportsmanship
Universitas Nusa Mandiri (UNM) hosted the Kreasi 2026 student creativity competition in East Jakarta, bringing together students from schools across Jabodetabek. The event aimed to foster creativity, sportsmanship, and a competitive spirit among young Indonesians. UNM's Vice Rector for Non-Academic Affairs emphasised that the process of competing matters more than winning, as it builds character and mental resilience for the nation's future leaders.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 12:27 WIB
Food Minister absorbs HIPPA and farmer aspirations in Banyuwangi
Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan met with farmers and water user associations in Banyuwangi to hear their concerns about irrigation and agricultural infrastructure. He pledged to personally oversee the submission of their proposals to the Public Works Ministry. Farmers reported that grain prices have risen to around Rp7,000 per kilogram, improving their incomes.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 12:27 WIB
Warning: Waves up to 4 Metres Still Threaten DIY Waters until 22 August
The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) in Yogyakarta has warned that high waves of up to four metres are expected to affect the southern waters of the Special Region of Yogyakarta until 22 August. The agency attributes the conditions to strong easterly winds reaching 20 knots. Fishermen and small vessel operators have been urged to exercise caution and avoid non-essential sailing.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 12:26 WIB
The Curse upon Those Who Relieve Themselves in Water Sources, Roads, and Shaded Places
Syekh Muhammad Shiddiq Al Minsyawi warns against defecating or urinating in public spaces such as water sources, roads, and shaded areas, citing prophetic hadiths that describe such acts as accursed. The article highlights the religious prohibition and its implications for public hygiene and social responsibility.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 12:25 WIB
Flores Earthquake Victims in Remote Villages Await Aid, Residents Survive Through Self-Help
Residents in remote villages of East Manggarai Regency affected by the Flores earthquake are still waiting for aid, with many relying on makeshift tents and sharing limited food supplies. Local officials say they can only collect data and report, as distribution authority lies with district and central governments. Police acknowledge that access to isolated areas remains a key challenge in delivering assistance.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 12:24 WIB
SEFAS Group Acquires Shell Petrol Stations: Company Profile and the Figures Behind It
SEFAS Group, the largest Shell lubricant distributor in Indonesia, is set to acquire all Shell petrol station businesses in the country. The transaction, announced on 19 August 2026, is pending regulatory approval and is expected to be completed this year. The move marks SEFAS Group's expansion into the energy retail sector.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 12:24 WIB
South Korea estimates North Korea has up to 120 nuclear warheads, far above Trump's figure
South Korea's defence minister has told lawmakers that North Korea is believed to possess between 80 and 120 nuclear warheads, a figure significantly higher than the 57 cited by US President Donald Trump. The estimate, drawn from private research organisations, was disclosed as Trump seeks to revive diplomacy with Kim Jong Un and scale back joint military drills. Seoul reiterated its policy of not officially recognising Pyongyang as a nuclear-armed state and reaffirmed its reliance on the US nuclear umbrella.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 12:24 WIB
Australia Disappointed as Israel Halts Investigation into Death of Gaza Aid Volunteer
Australia has expressed deep disappointment after Israel's military decided not to pursue a criminal investigation into the deaths of seven World Central Kitchen aid workers in Gaza, including Australian national Lalzawmi Zomi Frankcom. Foreign Minister Penny Wong summoned the Israeli ambassador and stated that Canberra no longer has confidence in Israel's legal process. Australia has pledged to continue pressing Israel for transparent accountability and justice for the victims' families.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 12:23 WIB
Bahtra Banong: PPPK Teacher Restructuring Proof President Prabowo Listens to Teachers' Aspirations
Gerindra Party spokesperson Bahtra Banong has praised the government's policy on restructuring and fulfilling the needs of PPPK teachers, calling it evidence of President Prabowo Subianto's commitment to providing certainty for teachers' futures. He specifically acknowledged the role of House Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad in championing teachers' aspirations. The policy is described as a 'gift of independence' for teachers, coinciding with Indonesia's 81st Independence Day anniversary.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 12:22 WIB
Dumai Investment Office Holds Socialisation of Government Regulation No. 28 of 2025 to Strengthen Regional Investment Climate
The Dumai Investment and One-Stop Integrated Services Office (DPMPTSP) held a technical guidance and socialisation event on Government Regulation No. 28 of 2025 concerning risk-based business licensing. The event aimed to align understanding between local government and business actors on the latest licensing regulations. Officials expressed hope that the initiative would improve compliance, service quality, and ease of doing business in Dumai.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 12:22 WIB
The Sumatran Elephant's Forest Pharmacy
Research at the Seblat Elephant Training Centre in Bengkulu suggests that Sumatran elephants may engage in self-medication by selectively consuming certain forest plants. Phytochemical analysis of four plant species identified by mahouts revealed compounds with antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The findings offer a new perspective on the relationship between elephants and forest vegetation, viewing plants as complex chemical packages rather than mere sources of energy and fibre.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 12:22 WIB
Big Bad Wolf 2026 Brings One Million Books to Yogyakarta, from Novels to Science
The Big Bad Wolf book fair will return to Yogyakarta in September 2026 with over one million English-language books at reduced prices. Organisers aim to boost visitor numbers by 5-7 per cent and expand readership beyond the city, including Magelang, Klaten and Solo. The event is supported by BCA as part of efforts to strengthen literacy and human resource quality in Indonesia.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 12:22 WIB
Creative Economy Minister says art strengthens cultural diplomacy and collaboration opportunities
Creative Economy Minister Teuku Riefky Harsya has praised the SBY Art Community exhibition at Taman Ismail Marzuki as a means of strengthening cultural diplomacy and expanding international opportunities for Indonesian artists. The exhibition, held to mark Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, features 150 curated paintings including works by Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono and Berlin-based artist Christopher Lehmpfuhl. Coordinating Minister Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono highlighted the collaboration as reinforcing the Jakarta-Berlin sister city relationship.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 12:21 WIB
805 Registrants So Far: Nominate Regional Change-Makers for the DPD RI Awards 2026
Registration for the DPD RI Awards 2026 remains open until Friday night, with 805 candidates already submitted. The Regional Representative Council (DPD RI) is inviting the public to nominate local figures across four categories: non-formal education innovation, health technology innovation, food self-sufficiency village leadership, and regional cultural preservation. DPD RI Speaker Sultan B. Najamudin has assured the selection process will be free from intervention, with independent expert judges determining the winners.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 12:20 WIB
Ministry of Manpower to open MagangHub 2026 Phase 2 registration in September
Indonesia's Ministry of Manpower will open registration for the second batch of the 2026 National Internship Programme (MagangHub) from 3–8 September 2026. Manpower Minister Yassierli urged prospective participants to prepare early and choose internship fields aligned with their interests and competencies. The ministry has set a full schedule from partner registration in late August through selection and announcement on 18 September, with internships commencing on 21 September 2026.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 12:20 WIB
UPNVJ Introduces Ultrasonic and IoT Pest Control Technology to Boost Harvests in Kutamukti
Universitas Pembangunan Nasional Veteran Jakarta (UPNVJ) has deployed an ultrasonic and Internet of Things (IoT) based pest control system in Kutamukti Village, Karawang, to tackle rat infestations that have severely reduced rice yields. The solar-powered device integrates ultrasonic waves, strobe lights, and natural predator sounds, and is operated through a community service programme supported by the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology. Local farmers have seen productivity fall from 9-10 tonnes per hectare to just 3-5 tonnes over the past two years.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 12:19 WIB
School Start Times in Banjarbaru Pushed Back as Haze from Forest Fires Worsens
The Education Office in Banjarbaru, South Kalimantan, has delayed school start times to 09.00 WITA in response to worsening haze from forest and land fires. The policy applies to early childhood, primary, and lower secondary schools and will remain in force until conditions improve. Parents have reported children suffering from coughs and breathing difficulties, with mask use now compulsory for many pupils.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 12:19 WIB
Cleft lip surgery in East Jakarta helps restore children's confidence
The East Jakarta Health Sub-department has highlighted that cleft lip and palate surgery helps restore children's confidence in their daily lives. The operations, conducted at Ciracas Regional Hospital, are part of efforts to expand healthcare access through collaboration between the government, the Indonesian Plastic Surgeons Association, and Smile Train Foundation. A total of 21 children registered for the social service programme, with 18 from East Jakarta.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 12:19 WIB
PLN selects government land for solar power and energy storage projects
State electricity firm PLN is screening land owned by ministries for utility-scale solar power plants paired with battery energy storage systems. The company is coordinating with the Agrarian and Spatial Planning Ministry and the Forestry Ministry, while also developing alternatives such as floating solar, virtual power plants and distributed generation. Regulatory gaps around using battery storage for load shifting remain a key challenge.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 12:18 WIB
Far Above Trump's Claim, South Korea Reveals North Korea Has 120 Nuclear Weapons
South Korea's defence minister has estimated that North Korea possesses between 80 and 120 nuclear weapons, a figure significantly higher than the 57 claimed by US President Donald Trump. The estimate, based on private research organisations, was disclosed to parliament while Seoul maintained its official policy of not recognising Pyongyang as a nuclear-armed state. South Korea reiterated its reliance on Washington's nuclear umbrella and its commitment to non-proliferation.