Archive: 20 August 2026
Showing 1,551-1,593 of 1,593 articles
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 05:00 WIB
Indonesia’s renewed macaque export push pits research demand against conservation concerns
Indonesia has set its first export quota for long-tailed macaques since 2022 and opened a new breeding facility in Lampung, aiming to supply biomedical research markets in the United States and potentially China. Officials argue the trade brings economic benefits and helps manage human-wildlife conflict, while animal welfare groups warn it undermines protection of a species listed as endangered by the IUCN. The move highlights a clash between national conservation assessments, which consider the macaque population stable, and international concerns over declining numbers.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 05:00 WIB
Commentary: America’s reassurances about the Indo-Pacific leave room for doubt
The US decision to revert the Indo-Pacific Command to its former Pacific Command title signals a narrowed strategic focus on East Asia and the first island chain, raising questions about Washington's commitment to the broader region. This shift reflects the second Trump administration's preference for direct deal-making over regional frameworks and is partly driven by differing US and Indian perceptions of threats in the Indian Ocean. For states like Indonesia, the Indo-Pacific framework remains strategically salient due to China's growing two-ocean presence and grey-zone activities near the Natuna Islands.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 05:00 WIB
Nuclear power revival sparks global race, from uranium mines in Texas to seas of Japan
A global resurgence in nuclear power is driving renewed competition for uranium, with countries reopening mines and expanding enrichment capacity as demand is projected to double by 2040. The revival is fuelled by the need for reliable low-carbon electricity and concerns over supply chain concentration, particularly after Russia's invasion of Ukraine exposed vulnerabilities in the nuclear fuel market. Efforts are also underway to explore alternative sources such as seawater extraction and fusion technology.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 05:00 WIB
Latest on Pandji Pragiwaksono Toraja Funeral Joke Case, Police: Customary Sanction Imposed, Case Closed
The Indonesian National Police's Criminal Investigation Department (Bareskrim) has indicated that the case against comedian Pandji Pragiwaksono over alleged insults to Toraja customs will be resolved through restorative justice. This decision follows Pandji's completion of a customary sanction in Tana Toraja, which included a public apology and the provision of one pig and five chickens. Police stated that the fulfilment of the adat sanction effectively concludes the matter.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 04:59 WIB
Commentary: Asia is rearming fast - but counting the wrong kind of military power
Asia's rising military spending is still measured by fleets of weapons rather than the regenerative capacity needed to sustain a long war, argues analyst David Zhang. Japan, China and India each face distinct bottlenecks in converting civilian manufacturing into sustained military production, from idle factory lines to untested combat integration. The commentary urges governments to fund repair networks, spare parts and surge capacity that remain invisible in peacetime but prove decisive in conflict.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 04:52 WIB
China considering summit with Seoul in November, South Korean foreign ministry says
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi indicated Beijing is actively considering a leaders' summit with South Korea at the APEC meeting in Shenzhen in November. The two sides also agreed to expand cooperation on trade, investment, supply chains, and cultural exchanges. Seoul urged China to help bring North Korea back to dialogue.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 04:51 WIB
Trump Claims He Will Meet Kim Jong Un This Year
US President Donald Trump has confirmed his intention to meet North Korean leader Kim Jong Un by the end of 2026, citing their strong personal relationship. The announcement comes amid reports that the meeting could take place on the sidelines of the APEC summit in Shenzhen, China, in November. Trump also made the unusual claim that North Korea possesses 57 powerful nuclear weapons, a figure broadly consistent with independent estimates.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 04:31 WIB
Motorcyclist Stabs Man in Semarang After Being Reprimanded for Reckless Riding
A man in Semarang was stabbed after reprimanding a motorcyclist for reckless riding. The victim, Niky Gilang Ramdhani, sustained wounds to his abdomen and back. Police are investigating the incident and gathering evidence and witness statements.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 04:13 WIB
When the Market Begins to Doubt Indonesia
Indonesia's sovereign bond market is flashing a serious warning signal as yields on 10-year government bonds surged 108 basis points to 7.13% in the first half of 2026. The sharp rise in short-term yields, particularly the 160 basis point jump in one-year notes, signals rising funding costs for banks and threatens to choke liquidity in the real sector. The market reaction reflects growing concern over the erosion of fiscal discipline in the state budget.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 03:36 WIB
Philippine military kills 72 rebels in first 8 months of 2026
The Armed Forces of the Philippines reported that 72 domestic rebels were killed between January and August 2026, with a further 935 New People's Army members surrendering and 38 being arrested. The military also seized 661 firearms and 255 anti-personnel mines, and captured 38 NPA encampments. This follows a 2025 tally of 2,018 NPA members and supporters neutralised, including 127 killed.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 03:32 WIB
China's railways handle 2.35 billion tonnes of cargo in January-July 2026
China's state railway sector transported 2.35 billion tonnes of cargo in the first seven months of 2026, a 0.7 per cent year-on-year increase. The operator prioritised essential goods such as coal and grain, while expanding multimodal transport services. China-Europe freight train trips rose 17.6 per cent to 12,988 during the period.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 03:30 WIB
Mobile SIM Services Available in Buleleng and Klungkung: Check Today's Schedule, 20 August 2026
Mobile driving licence renewal services are operating across several Balinese regencies today, offering convenient extension of SIM A and SIM C permits. The service is limited to renewals of licences that have not yet expired, with fees set under Government Regulation No. 60 of 2016. Applicants must bring original and photocopied identity documents along with health and psychological certificates.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 02:03 WIB
FTSE and MSCI Still Braking Indonesian Market, Will Foreign Investors Stay Away?
Global index providers FTSE Russell and MSCI have delayed or removed Indonesian stocks from their indices, potentially dampening foreign fund inflows into the Indonesia Stock Exchange. Market participants warn that prolonged index freezes could shift from a short-term technical issue to a structural perception problem regarding Indonesia's investability. Analysts advise investors to monitor domestic market reforms and capital inflow trends before making decisions.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 02:02 WIB
Minister Responds as Director General Urged to Resign Over Spate of Ship Accidents
Transport Minister Dudy Purwahandhi has responded to calls for the resignation of the Director General of Sea Transportation following a series of ship accidents. He said his ministry will evaluate the performance of all staff and audit four shipping companies involved in recent incidents. A member of House Commission V demanded the director general step down, citing 601 accidents recorded by Basarnas between January and mid-August 2026.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 01:47 WIB
Trump to Meet Kim Jong Un at End of Year: He Has 57 Nuclear Weapons
US President Donald Trump has confirmed he will meet North Korean leader Kim Jong Un later this year, reportedly on the sidelines of the APEC summit in China in November. Trump cited North Korea's possession of 57 nuclear weapons and his personal relationship with Kim as key factors. The announcement follows Trump's order to scale back joint military exercises with South Korea, which he described as inappropriate and hostile.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 01:44 WIB
Mimika Police confirm nine women taken hostage in Jila
Police in Mimika Regency, Central Papua, have confirmed that nine civilian women were taken hostage by an armed group in Jila District. The victims, mostly aged between 13 and 17, include one who is in the early stages of pregnancy. Authorities are preparing a crime scene investigation and have requested backup from the Brimob B Battalion to support officers at the Jila police station.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 01:36 WIB
Government Remains Committed to Geothermal Support, Businesses Urged Not to Hesitate to Invest
Indonesia has around 23.2 GW of geothermal potential but only 11.6% has been developed into installed capacity. The government is accelerating development through regulatory reform, tax incentives, and pressure on developers to realise existing concessions. Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia stressed the need for collaboration between business and regulators to reduce dependence on imported energy.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 01:35 WIB
From Quito, Ambassador Imam leads joint prayer for NTT earthquake victims
Indonesia's Ambassador to Ecuador, Imam As'ari, led a joint prayer for victims of earthquakes in Nusa Tenggara Timur, Palu, and Simalungun during Indonesia's 81st Independence Day commemoration in Quito. The event included a flag ceremony attended by Ecuadorian government representatives and Indonesian citizens. The celebration also featured traditional games and Indonesian cuisine, fostering a sense of community among Indonesians abroad.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 01:22 WIB
KPK schedules questioning of foreign nationals in alleged residence permit extortion case
Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is preparing to question several foreign nationals as part of its investigation into an alleged extortion scheme involving residence permit applications. Investigators are seeking to determine whether the foreigners were aware they were being extorted and whether immigration service bureaus informed their clients of the alleged scheme. The case has already led to charges against senior immigration officials, including former Director General of Immigration Silmy Karim.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 01:01 WIB
KPK explains reason for summoning PT Adaro Andalan Indonesia employee
The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned an employee of PT Adaro Andalan Indonesia as a witness in the expanding investigation into alleged corruption at the Banjarmasin Medium Tax Office. The witness, identified as J, is being questioned over payments made to tax examiners. The case stems from a hand-arrest operation and has already led to three suspects being named.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 01:00 WIB
Minister: Learning Continues for NTT Educational Units
The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has assured that learning will continue for schools affected by the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara, prioritising the safety of teachers and pupils. Emergency curriculum and aid packages have been deployed to affected areas, including Labuan Bajo. A new guidance document allows schools to adapt learning methods based on damage levels and available resources, with psychosocial support as a key component.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 00:57 WIB
BI Holds Benchmark Rate at 5.75 Percent Amid Rupiah Pressure, Global Uncertainty
Bank Indonesia has kept its benchmark rate at 5.75 percent to stabilise the rupiah amid global volatility and Middle East tensions. The central bank is expanding FX intervention tools and hedging incentives for foreign loans and FDI, while preparing new macroprudential policies to support liquidity and inclusive financing. These measures aim to maintain the inflation target and sustain economic growth through coordinated policy action.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 00:56 WIB
Prabowo Praises Paskibraka at 81st Independence Day Ceremony: You Carried Out an Honourable Duty
President Prabowo Subianto has expressed appreciation to all elements involved in the 81st Indonesian Independence Day ceremony, particularly the national flag-hoisting team (Paskibraka). He described their role as an honourable duty and urged them to continue serving the nation. The President also met directly with ceremony personnel, including the ceremony commander, pilots, and parachutists.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 00:50 WIB
Former Jampidsus Febrie Adriansyah Demands Return of Family Photos, AGO Gives Unexpected Answer
The Attorney General's Office has responded to a request by former Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah for the return of personal documents and family photos seized during a search. The AGO stated that any return of items must await the outcome of a pretrial hearing at the South Jakarta District Court. The seized items are linked to a money laundering investigation involving 74 kg of gold and hundreds of billions of rupiah in cash.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 00:45 WIB
KPK receives information on alleged BPJS corruption for foreign workers while investigating foreign national permit case
Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has confirmed receiving information about alleged corruption involving BPJS social security contributions for foreign workers. The information emerged during the investigation into an extortion case related to foreign national residence permits. The KPK has not yet opened a formal investigation into the BPJS matter but will examine possible links to the ongoing case.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 00:45 WIB
Indonesian modifier's work to be showcased at SEMA Show 2026
A modified BMW Passato created by Indonesian builders will be displayed at the SEMA Show 2026 in Las Vegas. The National Modificator & Aftermarket Association (NMAA) and the Indonesian Motor Association (IMI) see the project as a way to promote Indonesia's aftermarket industry globally. The initiative aims to open opportunities for Indonesian modification products and strengthen the country's position in the global automotive supply chain.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 00:30 WIB
Police Affirm Febrie Named Suspect After Obtaining Two Pieces of Evidence
The Indonesian National Police have defended their decision to name former Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah a suspect, stating investigators had gathered more than two valid pieces of evidence. The case relates to alleged corruption and money laundering connected to the handling of the PT ASABRI and PT Jiwasraya cases. Febrie has filed a pretrial motion seeking to have the suspect designation and related legal actions declared invalid.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 00:29 WIB
Magnitude 5.7 earthquake again shakes NTT on Wednesday night
A magnitude 5.7 earthquake struck Ruteng, Manggarai, East Nusa Tenggara on Wednesday night at a depth of 10 kilometres, with no tsunami potential. The tremor was felt across several regencies at intensities of III-IV MMI. BMKG has recorded 3,055 aftershocks following the earlier magnitude 7.7 Flores earthquake and expects the sequence to subside over the next three to four weeks.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 00:28 WIB
Chinese and South Korean foreign ministers meet to discuss current issues on the Korean Peninsula
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met his South Korean counterpart Cho Hyun in Seoul to discuss bilateral relations and the situation on the Korean Peninsula. Wang expressed China's support for peaceful coexistence between the two Koreas and called for expanded economic cooperation, including accelerating second-phase free trade agreement negotiations. The meeting came days after US President Donald Trump ordered a significant reduction in joint military exercises with South Korea.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 00:25 WIB
KPK seizes assets worth Rp150 billion in Silmy Karim case
Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has seized assets valued at approximately Rp150 billion in connection with an alleged extortion case involving former Deputy Minister of Immigration and Corrections Silmy Karim. The seized assets include vehicles, land and buildings, some of which are registered under other people's names. Investigators are now examining whether money laundering was involved in the scheme.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 00:22 WIB
The Dudas Minus One group plans tour of Asian countries
Indonesian celebrity motorcycle enthusiast group The Dudas Minus One has announced plans for an overland tour across Asia, aiming to study tourism development strategies and support advocacy for migrant workers. The group, whose members include Raffi Ahmad, who serves as a special envoy to the President, also intends to explore cultural and historical connections between Indonesia and other Asian nations. The tour is expected to include visits to Singapore, Thailand, Laos, Myanmar, and Hong Kong.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 00:16 WIB
Governor asks PWNU Banten to maintain unity ahead of 35th NU Congress
Banten Governor Andra Soni has urged the provincial board of Nahdlatul Ulama to preserve unity and cohesion ahead of the organisation's 35th Congress in Jombang, East Java. He described NU as a strategic government partner in development programmes and expressed confidence that the congress would strengthen the organisation. The Banten contingent of 110 participants is scheduled to depart on 25 August 2026.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 00:14 WIB
Natuna Regency partners with Riau and West Kalimantan mental hospitals to aid recovery of people with mental disorders
The Natuna Regency administration has established cooperation with psychiatric hospitals in Riau and West Kalimantan provinces to support the recovery of residents with mental health disorders. With around 200 people with mental disorders recorded across the regency in 2026 and no local psychiatric hospital, patients requiring further treatment must be sent off-island at significant cost. Officials note that transporting and escorting just four patients can cost around Rp200 million, prompting calls for a psychiatric hospital to be built in Natuna.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 00:11 WIB
Tarakan biodiesel distribution crackdown focuses on barcode system
The Tarakan City DPRD Commission Three, together with the city government and relevant agencies, is tightening and reorganising the distribution of subsidised BioSolar fuel for large fleet vehicles. The initiative centres on requiring transport operators to use unique digital barcodes to ensure subsidised fuel reaches the intended recipients and to strengthen oversight at distributor level. The regional government will also review fuel usage rules for local development projects.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 00:10 WIB
KBPP Polri Highlights Government's Persuasive Role in Maintaining Peace in Aceh
The chairman of the Police Families Association (KBPP Polri) has praised the government and security forces for their measured, non-repressive response to the lowering of the Indonesian flag during Aceh Peace Day commemorations. He emphasised that a persuasive approach helped maintain stability without sacrificing state authority. The association also urged the public to remain united and avoid provocation.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 00:10 WIB
Yuri Appreciates Government Solution to Unrest at PT Timah Office
PBB leader Yuri Kemal Fadlullah has expressed appreciation for the government's mediation efforts that resolved tensions between PT Timah and local communities in Bangka Belitung. The agreement allows PT Timah to purchase tin from community miners, securing livelihoods in the region. Yuri urged swift implementation and a comprehensive long-term solution for the tin sector.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 00:07 WIB
5.7 Magnitude Earthquake Shakes Ruteng, East Nusa Tenggara
A 5.7 magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Ruteng in East Nusa Tenggara on Wednesday evening. The tremor was felt across several regencies in the province, with shaking intensity reaching MMI scale IV. No immediate reports of damage or casualties were provided.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 00:04 WIB
SIT and IBM to establish quantum-safe cybersecurity centre in Singapore
The Singapore Institute of Technology and IBM plan to open a Quantum-Safe Center by late 2026 to help organisations transition to encryption resistant to quantum computing threats. The facility at SIT's Punggol campus will assess vulnerabilities, support adoption of quantum-resistant cryptography, and develop talent for the post-quantum era.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 00:02 WIB
Chinese cars receive positive reception in Australia's automotive industry
Chinese car manufacturers, particularly those focused on new energy vehicles, are gaining rapid traction in Australia's competitive market, according to the head of the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries. FCAI Chief Executive Tony Weber said Chinese brands are winning consumer trust through expanded dealer networks and after-sales support. He also expressed optimism about EV prospects and said Australia would welcome Chinese participation in developing charging infrastructure.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 00:01 WIB
Modus Operandi of Chinese 'Mail-Order Bride' Case: Promised a Decent Life, Forced into Domestic Servitude
Indonesia's Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim) has uncovered a human trafficking ring that sent Indonesian women to China as 'mail-order brides'. Two suspects have been arrested for recruiting victims with promises of a better life and monthly allowances, only for the women to face physical abuse and forced domestic labour. The case highlights the ongoing vulnerability of Indonesian women to transnational trafficking syndicates.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 00:00 WIB
Police Rebut Febrie's Claim That Searches Require Attorney General's Permission
The Indonesian National Police have rejected a pre-trial motion by former junior attorney general for special crimes Febrie Adriansyah, who argued that searches and seizures require prior approval from the Attorney General. Police contend that a Constitutional Court ruling only requires such permission in limited circumstances and does not apply when there is sufficient preliminary evidence of a special crime. The case relates to alleged corruption and money laundering in the handling of the PT ASABRI and PT Jiwasraya cases.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 00:00 WIB
Emotional Struggle of Mother in NTT Giving Birth Amid 7.7 Magnitude Earthquake
A mother in Nusa Tenggara Timur gave birth via emergency caesarean section during a 7.7 magnitude earthquake and its aftershocks. Medical staff continued the operation despite power outages and building damage, using torchlight to complete the procedure. The mother expressed deep gratitude to the medical team who stayed with patients despite the dangerous conditions.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 00:00 WIB
Ambassador: Indonesia-Turkiye partnership must deliver solution for Palestinian independence
Indonesia's Ambassador to Turkiye Achmad Rizal Purnama has called for the bilateral partnership between the two nations to address global humanitarian challenges, particularly Palestinian independence. Speaking at the Indonesia-Turkiye Partnership Day 2026 in Ankara, he stressed that Palestinian suffering must not become a new normal. Turkish Defence Minister Yasar Guler reaffirmed the special relationship between the two countries and expressed confidence in deepening defence cooperation.