Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 25 August 2026

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10,684 coral seedlings planted to restore seas in Thousand Islands

The Jakarta provincial government has planted 10,684 coral seedlings across four islands in the Thousand Islands regency during 2026 as part of an expanded marine ecosystem restoration programme. The initiative aims to boost biodiversity, fisheries productivity, and marine tourism while supporting the livelihoods of coastal communities.

Thanks to Campus Emergency Training, 61 UMY KKN Students Survive NTT Earthquake

Sixty-one students from Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta undertaking community service in East Nusa Tenggara survived a magnitude 7.7 earthquake that struck the region on Saturday. The students, divided into two groups in West and East Manggarai, evacuated to higher ground with local residents following tsunami warnings. Their safety is attributed to emergency preparedness training provided by the university.

WinX and Reku Explore Use of AI Robo Advisor for Digital Financial Asset Trading

WinX and Reku have signed a memorandum of understanding to explore the use of AI Robo Advisor technology within Indonesia's digital financial asset trading ecosystem. The collaboration aims to help crypto investors conduct analysis and trading activities, including on derivative products, in a more measured way. Indonesia's crypto investor base reached 22.69 million in June 2026, with transaction values rising 24.2 percent month-on-month.

Muhammadiyah Urges Congregants to Donate Friday Prayer Alms for NTT Earthquake Victims

Muhammadiyah's central leadership has issued an edict calling on its members and the wider public to donate Friday prayer alms for victims of the Flores earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. The collection, scheduled for 21 August 2026, will be coordinated through Lazismu and the Disaster Resilience Institute. The initiative reflects the organisation's commitment to a unified humanitarian response under the 'One Muhammadiyah One Response' framework.

AHU Festival offers legal administration consultations for the public

The Directorate General of General Legal Administration (Ditjen AHU) is holding a three-day festival in Bandung to bring legal administration services closer to the public. The event offers consultations, digital service simulations, and on-site processing for eligible services, alongside discussions on four draft laws. The initiative aims to transform how citizens interact with the bureaucracy by making services more accessible and understandable.

BNPP Joins National Korpri MTQ VIII/2026 in South Sulawesi with Spirit of Solidarity

Indonesia's National Border Management Agency (BNPP) is participating in the National Civil Service Corps (Korpri) Quran Recitation Competition (MTQ) VIII/2026 in Makassar and Pangkajene and Islands Regency, South Sulawesi. The agency has fielded four participants across dakwah, surah memorisation, scientific writing, and calligraphy categories. BNPP officials emphasised that the event serves not only to pursue achievement but also to strengthen fellowship and build integrity among civil servants.

Fighting the Dry Season, Gowa Farmers Rely on Boreholes to Keep Rice Fields Productive

Farmers in Gowa Regency, South Sulawesi, are using government-provided boreholes to irrigate their rice fields during the dry season. The South Sulawesi provincial government distributed the boreholes to farmer groups to support irrigation of around 40 hectares of paddy fields in Pallangga. The initiative aims to maintain agricultural productivity and strengthen food security in the region.

DIY Social Agency Ensures Poor Residents Whose Desil Ranking Rose Sharply Won't Immediately Lose Social Assistance

The Yogyakarta Special Region Social Agency has assured residents that changes in their desil ranking within the National Socio-Economic Single Data (DTSEN) will not automatically result in the termination of their social assistance. The agency acknowledges that some residents have experienced significant desil increases despite no real change in their economic conditions. Internal discussions are underway to develop a mechanism ensuring that families whose factual circumstances still warrant support continue to receive benefits.

ANTARA chief: Aceh Tsunami Museum a reminder of disaster preparedness

The head of Indonesia's national news agency ANTARA has highlighted the Aceh Tsunami Museum as a vital reminder of the need for disaster preparedness in a country located on the Pacific Ring of Fire. Benny Siga Butarbutar stressed the importance of learning from nature and building mitigation systems, including information ecosystems and earthquake-resistant infrastructure. He also pointed to local wisdom such as the Smong oral tradition in Simeulue as an example of effective community-based early warning.

Many Yogyakarta Residents Jump from Decile 1 to Decile 10, BPS DIY Acknowledges Possible Data Errors

The Central Statistics Agency (BPS) of Yogyakarta has acknowledged potential errors in the National Socio-Economic Single Data (DTSEN) after reports that some residents jumped from the lowest welfare decile to the highest, disqualifying them from social assistance. The agency explained that the data is compiled using the Proxy Means Test method and around 40 indicators, with human involvement making inclusion and exclusion errors possible. BPS emphasised the need for public participation and verification to improve data quality.

Police name two suspects after student assault video goes viral

Police in Bener Meriah, Aceh, have named two high school students as suspects in the alleged assault of a fellow student after a video of the incident circulated widely on social media. The suspects, aged 17 and 16, are being processed under Indonesia's juvenile justice and child protection laws. The victim remains hospitalised with injuries sustained in the attack.

Kiai Marsudi enters PBNU chairman candidate race, says Citra Institute researcher

A political observer from Citra Institute says the emergence of around nine candidates for the leadership of Nahdlatul Ulama reflects healthy internal dynamics ahead of the organisation's congress. He highlights KH Marsudi Syuhud as a potential dark horse, citing his flexibility across factions and extensive international diplomatic experience.

Subak Penaban Irrigation Channel Damaged, Pandu Urges Immediate Repair

The irrigation channel of Subak Penaban in Karangasem has suffered damage stretching hundreds of metres, prompting Deputy Regent Pandu Prapanca Lagosa to call for urgent repairs. The local agriculture agency has proposed the site for funding under the 2026 Tertiary Irrigation Network Maintenance programme, with an estimated budget of Rp100 million. Officials say the repairs are vital for securing water supply, boosting agricultural production, and supporting national food self-sufficiency.

Stefano Lilipaly reveals reasons for joining Semen Padang

Indonesian international Stefano Lilipaly has explained his decision to join second-tier side Semen Padang, citing the club's ambition to win the Championship and secure promotion to Liga 1. The former Persija Jakarta, Bali United, Borneo FC, and Dewa United player believes the squad, which includes other ex-national team members, can achieve the title. Semen Padang begin their Championship 2026/27 campaign on 13 September against Persiraja Banda Aceh.

Man's Body Found in Pile of Wood in Bekasi, 100% Burned

A man's body was discovered behind a pile of burning wood at a timber waste depot in Tambun Selatan, Bekasi, West Java. Police have not yet determined the cause of death or identified the victim. Authorities are urging residents who may be missing a male relative to come forward.

Aceh government asks central government to accelerate infrastructure recovery in Gayo Lues

The Aceh provincial government has urged the Ministry of Public Works to speed up permanent repairs to roads and bridges damaged by hydrometeorological disasters in Gayo Lues Regency. The request follows two visits by Vice President Gibran Rakabuming, who instructed local authorities to submit urgent needs to the central government. Priority projects include several bridges and a 10.7-kilometre road section deemed vital for restoring connectivity and economic activity.

Students in Melbourne prepare festival as contribution to Indonesia

Indonesian students in Melbourne, members of the LPDP scholarship alumni organisation Mata Garuda, are organising the Garuda Contribution Fest to develop solutions for problems facing Indonesia. The event includes an Ideathon competition with around 40 participants, mentorship, and judging by academics and entrepreneurs. The organisation also runs programmes to prepare Indonesian graduates abroad for their return home, addressing challenges such as reverse culture shock.

Prophet Muhammad's Birthday in Pidie: Hundreds of Orphans and the Poor Receive Aid

Hundreds of orphans and underprivileged residents in Pidie, Aceh, received cash assistance and sarongs during a commemoration of the Prophet Muhammad's birthday. The aid, sourced from local entrepreneurs, migrants, and residents, is intended to support children's education and daily needs. The event also featured a traditional kenduri feast, which local officials say strengthens social bonds and community solidarity.

Reduced Visibility: Haze Affects Flights at Sultan Thaha Airport Jambi

Haze from forest and land fires in Jambi Province has disrupted flight operations at Sultan Thaha Airport, with visibility dropping to as low as 800 metres on Tuesday afternoon. Two incoming flights were diverted to Batam and Palembang as a result. Airport authorities have urged passengers to monitor flight information as visibility conditions remain changeable.

Vacant Land in Kebon Jeruk Catches Fire, Allegedly Due to Children Burning Rubbish

A vacant plot on Jalan Arjuna in Kebon Jeruk, West Jakarta, caught fire on Tuesday evening, allegedly after children burned rubbish at the site. Four fire engines were deployed and the blaze was extinguished quickly, with no casualties or damage to buildings reported.

403 police personnel to raise awareness on preventing wildfires

Indonesia's National Police Institute is deploying 403 personnel to conduct public education campaigns aimed at preventing wildfires in fire-prone provinces such as Kalimantan and Sumatra. The initiative follows instructions from President Prabowo Subianto and the National Police Chief to intensify community engagement on wildfire causes, impacts, and prevention. The effort is part of broader integrated measures to protect public health and local economies from the effects of fires and transboundary haze.

Trump Threatens to Rename Lake Ontario to 'Lake America' Amid Trade War

US President Donald Trump has threatened to rename Lake Ontario to 'Lake America' as trade tensions with Canada escalate. The threat follows failed trade negotiations and the imposition of 50 percent tariffs on Canadian goods. Ontario Premier Doug Ford has responded by suggesting Canada raise prices on strategic natural resources exported to the US.

Jembrana customary leader welcomes solar power plant development in Bali

A customary leader in Jembrana, Bali, has expressed gratitude for the construction of a 300 MWp solar power plant in Gilimanuk, viewing it as a significant step towards national energy self-sufficiency. The project, which includes a 1,000 MWh battery storage system, is expected to boost the local economy and create jobs. He also urged the government to ensure development reaches remote areas across Indonesia.

Thousands of Muslims Attend Brebes Bersholawat to Commemorate Prophet Muhammad's Birthday

Thousands of Muslims gathered in Brebes Regency to commemorate the Prophet Muhammad's birthday with a large religious gathering and sholawat recitation. Brebes Regent Paramitha Widya Kusuma emphasised the importance of moral development alongside physical infrastructure, while preacher KH. Anwar Zahid urged attendees to embody the Prophet's character in daily life.

Lorry Overturns Near Railway Crossing in Serang, Two Injured

A lorry overturned near the Rangkasbitung-Merak railway line in Serang, Banten, after an accident on the Tangerang-Merak toll road. The vehicle's position temporarily disrupted train services, and two people were taken to hospital with injuries.

OJK pushes productive funding access amid surge in online lending

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) is urging online lending platforms to expand access to productive financing for MSMEs, with lending to the sector reaching Rp35.12 trillion by June 2026, up 23.25 percent year-on-year. The regulator emphasised that growth must be matched by improved financing quality and prudent risk management. Total online lending stood at Rp105.14 trillion, with a 90-day default rate of 4.26 percent.

Five Indonesian Crew Members from Sukabumi Stranded in Fiji, West Java Governor Moves Quickly to Repatriate Them

Five Indonesian crew members from Sukabumi, West Java, have been stranded in Fiji for nearly three weeks and have appealed to the Indonesian government for help. West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi responded swiftly by contacting the Indonesian Ambassador to Fiji and arranging for the crew's repatriation through their agent.

AI Can Predict Body's Response to Vaccines from Antibody Patterns in Blood

Researchers in the United States have used artificial intelligence to analyse antibody patterns in blood samples and predict how strongly individuals will respond to COVID-19 vaccination. The study, involving over 4,000 participants, identified 'sentinel antibodies' and other biomarkers that could help doctors tailor vaccination strategies for those with weaker immune systems.

Sorong City Government Calls on Residents to Strengthen Brotherhood and Harmony for Maulid Nabi 1448 H

The Sorong city government has urged residents to strengthen brotherhood, unity and harmony during the Maulid Nabi Muhammad SAW 1448 H commemoration. Deputy Mayor Anshar Karim emphasised that the occasion should serve as a moment to emulate the Prophet's values of honesty, trustworthiness, compassion and justice. The city government views social cohesion as essential for supporting regional development programmes.

Bogor City Government targets R3 road to reach Wangun and operate by 2029

The Bogor City Government aims to complete the Regional Ring Road (R3) connection to the Wangun area by 2029 to help alleviate congestion in the city centre. Mayor Dedie A. Rachim stated that the project is part of connectivity development and will open access to eastern Bogor. The road will also include pedestrian facilities as part of equitable infrastructure provision.

Bali provincial government prepares non-productive state land to support 1,000 MWp solar power plant

The Bali provincial government is supporting the development of solar power plants by providing non-productive state land, with sites identified in Jembrana, Buleleng and Karangasem. Governor Wayan Koster said the initiative aligns with Bali's clean energy regulations and aims to reduce reliance on imported fuel. PLN will combine the solar infrastructure with battery energy storage systems to ensure stable 24-hour electricity supply.

Magnitude 5.0 Earthquake Shakes Flores Tonight, Residents Panic and Flee Homes

A magnitude 5.0 aftershock struck Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, on Tuesday night, causing residents in West Manggarai to flee their homes in panic. The tremor follows the devastating magnitude 7.7 earthquake on 15 August, with the death toll now standing at 103 people. Many residents had only just returned from emergency shelters when the latest aftershock hit.

Indonesia and Norway strengthen ties through music and diplomacy

Indonesia's ambassador to Norway and Iceland, Teuku Faizasyah, highlighted the parallels between music and diplomacy during an Indonesian Cultural Night in Oslo, emphasising the importance of listening and finding harmony amid global tensions. Norwegian State Secretary Kristofer André Hansen praised Indonesia's progress on deforestation and reaffirmed the strong bilateral partnership spanning climate, trade, and human rights. The event, part of Indonesia's 81st independence anniversary celebrations, brought together around 200 guests from diplomatic, government, business, and diaspora communities.

Drought Drives Troop of Monkeys from Forest Park into Bandung Residential Areas in Search of Food

A troop of long-tailed macaques has descended from the Ir H Djuanda Forest Park into residential areas of Bandung, including the Dago-Lembang alternative road, in search of food during the dry season. Park management confirmed the presence of a colony near the PPR ITB Buniwangi complex and said previous attempts to trap and reduce the monkey population had failed. The monkeys' home range is estimated at 3-5 hectares per colony, with each colony numbering 25-40 individuals.

Naval Chief: Aircraft carrier KRI Gajah Mada heading to Indonesian waters

Indonesia's first aircraft carrier, the former Italian Navy vessel ITS Giuseppe Garibaldi, has departed Italy for Jakarta under an intergovernmental grant scheme. The ship is expected to arrive in Indonesia between 15 and 20 September, with a formal flag-changing ceremony planned for 25 September 2026, likely attended by President Prabowo Subianto. The vessel will be renamed KRI Gajah Mada and is scheduled to make its debut at the TNI's 81st anniversary celebrations in October 2026.

Directorate General of AHU to Hold Impactful AHU Service Festival in Bandung

The Directorate General of General Legal Administration (Ditjen AHU) will hold a three-day service festival in Bandung from 29–31 August 2026 to bring legal administration services closer to the public. The event will offer consultations, digital service simulations, on-the-spot processing, and policy discussions on four draft laws. Director General Widodo said the festival aims to make legal administration services more modern, responsive, and accessible.

Prophet Muhammad's Birthday a Momentum to Emulate the Prophet's Morals in Filling Independence

A senior adviser to the Indonesian Islamic Union (PUI) has called for the Prophet Muhammad's birthday commemoration to be used as a moment for moral reflection and strengthening national spirit. Achmad Tjachja Nugraha emphasised that independence must be filled with character building, honesty, and environmental stewardship. He also urged Indonesians to maintain unity amid diversity, following the Prophet's example of justice and brotherhood.

Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore reaffirm commitment to keep Malacca and Singapore straits safe and open

Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore have reaffirmed their commitment to keeping the Straits of Malacca and Singapore free, open and safe for international shipping under UNCLOS. The three countries stressed the importance of navigational rights and cooperation among stakeholders to protect the marine environment and maintain safety on one of the world's most important shipping routes. The forum also discussed new technologies, alternative fuels, and joint procedures for responding to cargo fires and ships in distress.

Fugitive for four years, child rape convict arrested in Aceh Besar

A child rape convict who had been on the run since escaping a juvenile detention centre in 2022 has been arrested in Aceh Besar. The man, identified as MY, was apprehended by the Aceh High Prosecutor's Office fugitive task force after resisting arrest and attempting to flee. Prosecutors emphasised that no fugitive has a safe place and urged all wanted persons to surrender.

Ambassador Ngurah: Indonesia Festival strengthens RI-Swiss friendship

The Indonesia Festival 2026 in Rheinfelden, Switzerland, served as a platform to deepen people-to-people ties and mark 75 years of diplomatic relations between Indonesia and Switzerland. Ambassador Ngurah Swajaya highlighted culture, cuisine, music, and art as bridges for mutual understanding and friendship. The event also carried a humanitarian message, raising funds for education in Sumatra and Aceh and for disaster victims in Flores, East Nusa Tenggara.

South Sulawesi BPBD records 112 forest and land fires throughout 2026

The South Sulawesi Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) has recorded 112 forest and land fires from January to August 2026, burning a total of 1,613.67 hectares. Enrekang Regency was the worst affected, with over 1,000 hectares burned. The agency has urged the public to avoid open burning as the dry season peaks and fire risk intensifies.

Government prepares presidential regulation for 100 GWp solar power plants

Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources is drafting a presidential regulation to underpin the development of 100 gigawatt peak of solar power capacity. The regulation will serve as the legal foundation for the programme, while state utility PLN has proposed revisions to the 2025–2034 electricity procurement plan to include additional solar and battery storage capacity. Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has said the government may finance projects through Danantara if private developers do not offer competitive tariffs.

Transmigration Shift Aims to Build Productive Economic Hubs Across Indonesia

Indonesia's Ministry of Transmigration is repositioning transmigration areas as centres of economic growth, prioritising job creation, market access, and investment before population relocation. The strategy, supported by five flagship programmes, aims to develop full industry ecosystems rather than relying on raw commodity exports. Minister Iftitah Sulaiman Suryanagara stressed that economic opportunities must precede voluntary mobility to ensure local communities become primary beneficiaries of regional development.

Rumoured to Move to PSI, KDM: Lies, I Am Deputy Chairman of Gerindra's Board of Trustees

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has dismissed rumours that he is planning to defect to the Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI). He described the speculation as strange and untrue, reaffirming his current position as Deputy Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Gerindra Party.

Telkom strengthens earthquake impact mitigation in NTT

State-owned telecommunications firm PT Telkom Indonesia has reinforced its disaster mitigation measures in Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, by adding alternative power sources to reduce risks from earthquakes. Connectivity and telecommunications services in the region were fully restored within three days of the first quake on 15 August 2025. The company has also provided free internet access at evacuation posts and distributed humanitarian aid across five affected areas.

Death Toll from M 7.7 Earthquake in NTT Rises to 103

The death toll from the magnitude 7.7 earthquake that struck Nusa Tenggara Timur has risen to 103, with over 1,600 injured and more than 185,000 people displaced. Aftershocks continue to be felt, with BMKG recording over 7,000 tremors since the main quake, prompting ongoing evacuations.

China Undeterred by US Threats

China has declared that its cooperation with Iran is conducted within the framework of international law and will not be disrupted, including by the United States. The statement follows Washington's launch of 'Operation Economic Outcast', which threatens secondary sanctions against any country doing business with Iran. Beijing reiterated its firm opposition to unilateral sanctions and called for de-escalation and a return to dialogue.

Economist: Indonesia's opportunity in global halal market needs trade cooperation support

An economist from Indef has urged Indonesia to leverage international trade agreements, strengthen halal certification, and boost industrial capacity to become a major player in the global halal supply chain. He highlighted Malaysia's more aggressive approach in attracting foreign direct investment for halal manufacturing despite its smaller population. The head of BPJPH also emphasised the need to consider the competitiveness of small businesses and the broader economic contribution of the halal ecosystem, which he estimated at around 27 percent of GDP.

Gus Yahya Highlights Challenges Facing NU Ahead of 35th Congress

Nahdlatul Ulama chairman Gus Yahya has outlined key challenges facing Indonesia's largest Islamic organisation ahead of its 35th Congress in Jombang. He identified shifting NU identity, organisational consolidation, the group's position in national politics, and its global role as critical issues. Gus Yahya noted that the social and cultural boundaries defining NU membership have become increasingly fluid compared to earlier generations.

Police Reveal Manifest of Burned KM Mutiara Sentosa Suspected to Be Inaccurate

Police investigating the fire aboard KMP Mutiara Sentosa II off the coast of Sumenep, Madura, have found discrepancies between the passenger manifest and the number of people actually evacuated. Investigators also noted a tendency among parties to shift responsibility for the incident. The focus is now on determining who is most accountable for the disaster.

Prabowo Praises Danantara Performance: Its Leadership Deserves State Honours

President Prabowo Subianto has lauded the performance of the Daya Anagata Nusantara Investment Management Agency (BP Danantara), crediting it with turning around state-owned enterprises and boosting their profits by hundreds of percent in under two years. Speaking at a solar power plant groundbreaking in Bali, he suggested Danantara's leadership deserves a state honour. He attributed the success to honest, patriotic leadership and linked it to the government's broader efforts to curb financial leakages and corruption.

Launch of 100 GW solar power project must mark start of rapid execution

The Institute for Essential Services Reform has urged the government to treat the launch of the 100 GW solar power programme as the beginning of a much larger execution phase, warning that success will be measured by gigawatts connected to the grid before 2029 rather than by groundbreaking ceremonies. The institute highlighted the project's potential to reduce Indonesia's reliance on fossil fuels and strengthen energy security, particularly in Bali. PLN's chief executive noted that the initial 5.3 GWp phase is already the largest ongoing solar project in the world.

Riau Police Distribute Thousands of Masks to Prevent Haze Exposure in Pekanbaru

The Riau Regional Police have distributed 2,500 masks to residents of Pekanbaru to protect them from haze caused by forest and land fires. The initiative is part of a broader effort to address the fires, combining firefighting operations with public health protection. Police also urged residents to limit outdoor activities and seek medical attention if they experience health problems from the smoke.

Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources says 1 GWp solar power plant will eliminate diesel from Bali

Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources has announced that a planned 1 gigawatt peak (GWp) solar power plant will eliminate all diesel-fired power generation in Bali. The project will be developed across five clusters, with the Gilimanuk site in Jembrana Regency already underway. President Prabowo Subianto officially launched the strategic 100 GWp national solar programme at the Gilimanuk Operation Monument.

Trump threatens to rename Lake Ontario to 'Lake America'

US President Donald Trump has threatened to rename Lake Ontario to 'Lake America' amid failed trade negotiations with Canada and deteriorating relations with Ontario Premier Doug Ford. The threat follows the collapse of US-Canada trade talks and Washington's imposition of 50 percent tariffs on Canadian goods worth 20 billion US dollars. Canada has pledged dollar-for-dollar retaliatory tariffs, while Ford has suggested Canada should sell oil, potash, uranium and rare earth minerals to the US at triple current prices.

Gecko Abilities Inspire Satellite Technology to Capture Space Debris

Researchers are developing a satellite docking system inspired by the gecko's ability to stick to surfaces, aiming to tackle the growing problem of space debris. The EU-funded gEICko project uses micro-structured silicone to adhere to uncontrolled objects in orbit. The technology is expected to be operational in about ten years.

UPI Cibiru Introduces AI Agent Technology to Optimise Public Services

Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia's Cibiru campus has trained village officials in Cibiru Wetan to use AI Agent technology and workflow automation to streamline administrative services. The initiative aims to help village apparatus manage public complaints and administrative tasks more efficiently without manual data processing. Village officials welcomed the training, saying it supports their goal of becoming a digital village.

BI reports Jambi MSMEs record Rp675.87 million in sales at KKI 2026

Bank Indonesia's Jambi representative office reported that its assisted micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) achieved total sales of Rp675.87 million at the Karya Kreatif Indonesia 2026 event, a 28 percent increase from the previous year. Twelve Jambi MSMEs showcased regional products including textiles, ready-to-wear fashion, processed foods, coffee and crafts. One Jambi coffee processor secured a Letter of Intent for export business matching with partners from the UAE and China, with an estimated contract value of Rp3.2 billion.

Indonesia targets 100 GWp solar plant to power off-grid villages

Indonesia has launched a 100 GWp solar power programme aimed at electrifying off-grid villages, with President Prabowo Subianto officiating at a groundbreaking ceremony in Bali. The initiative, which includes a 198 MWp plant with battery storage in Jembrana, is intended to provide at least 1 MW of electricity per village and support local economic activities such as cold storage for fisheries. State-owned enterprises Pertamina and PLN are involved in implementation, with the Bali project expected to begin operations in 2028.

Environment Minister Reviews Forest and Land Fires in South Kalimantan, Ensures Perpetrators Face Firm Action

Environment Minister Moh Jumhur Hidayat visited Banjarbaru, South Kalimantan, to oversee the handling of forest and land fires on the President's orders. He stressed that fire suppression and public health protection are top priorities, while warning that law enforcement will be strictly applied against those who burn land. The minister also noted a significant reduction in burned area compared to 2023, from around 190,000 hectares to approximately 8,000 hectares so far.

They Are Branded Netanyahu's Enemies: From Erdogan to Mamdani

Israel's Likud party, led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, has erected a giant billboard in Tel Aviv depicting figures it considers adversaries, including Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani, ahead of the October 2026 election. The billboard appears amid rising Israel-Turkey tensions and as Likud trails in opinion polls behind the Yashar party. Netanyahu has urged right-wing voters to back Likud rather than smaller parties that may fail to clear the electoral threshold.

Pekanbaru Prostrates in Prayer for Rain, Prays for Safety of Firefighters

The Pekanbaru city government has called for a mass Salat Istisqa, or prayer for rain, across all sub-districts on Wednesday, 26 August 2026, as forest and land fires continue to degrade air quality. Mayor Agung Nugroho emphasised that the haze affecting the city originates from fires in surrounding provinces, urging prayers for all affected regions and the safety of firefighters. Residents are also reminded not to clear land by burning and to report emergencies via the free 112 hotline.

China says cooperation with Iran cannot be disrupted by US

Beijing has rejected Washington's threat of secondary sanctions over its dealings with Iran, insisting the cooperation is lawful and will be defended. The US has launched 'Operation Economic Outcast' targeting five sectors of Iran's economy and warned that no country, including China, is immune. China called for de-escalation and a return to dialogue, arguing that unilateral sanctions harm the global economic order.

BNPB Chief Calls for Accelerated Post-Earthquake Handling in East Manggarai

The head of Indonesia's National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB), Lt Gen TNI Suharyanto, has urged local authorities in East Manggarai Regency to speed up data collection and the transition from emergency response to recovery following the Flores earthquake. He stressed that basic needs must be met promptly and that residents should not remain in tents for too long. The earthquake has caused 103 deaths across Nusa Tenggara Timur, with East Manggarai recording 34 fatalities and over 20,000 damaged homes.

Five Companies Sanctioned for Kalimantan Forest Fires, One Licence Suspended

Indonesia's Ministry of Forestry has imposed administrative sanctions on six forest utilisation permit holders after fires burned 1,511.55 hectares across West, Central, and East Kalimantan. Five companies face government enforcement orders, while PT MPK received the heavier penalty of licence suspension due to the extensive and repeated nature of fires in its concession. The ministry warned that sanctions could escalate to licence revocation if companies fail to restore affected areas and improve fire prevention systems.

Gibranku Chairman Regrets Budi Arie's Statement: It Was a Personal View

The chairman of the Gibranku volunteer group, Ananta Agung Junaedy, has expressed regret over remarks by Budi Arie Setiadi suggesting political change could occur before the 2029 election. Ananta stressed that volunteers remain loyal to the Prabowo-Gibran government and that Budi Arie's comments were a personal view, not shared by former president Joko Widodo or his family.

Smoke Haze Disrupts Flights at Sultan Thaha Jambi Airport, Two Planes Diverted

Thick smoke haze from ongoing forest and land fires in Jambi Province caused severe visibility reductions at Sultan Thaha Airport on Tuesday afternoon, forcing two Jakarta-bound flights to divert to alternative airports. Visibility dropped to as low as 800 metres before recovering, though departures continued without significant delays. Airport authorities have urged passengers to monitor flight updates as conditions remain volatile.

Nagekeo Infrastructure Recovery Accelerated, Public Facilities Prioritised

Lawmaker Bambang Haryo Soekartono has urged the government to accelerate the restoration of public facilities damaged by the earthquake in Nagekeo Regency, East Nusa Tenggara. Priority areas include schools, hospitals, places of worship, roads, ports, and residential housing. He also highlighted the need for a thorough technical evaluation of the severely damaged Maumere Terminal, involving construction researchers from ITS.

Global grant for Dompu livestock development to begin in September

A Global Environment Facility-funded programme to develop sustainable livestock systems in Dompu Regency, West Nusa Tenggara, will commence in September 2026 and run until 2031. The initiative, implemented with the FAO and central and regional governments, aims to build an integrated, environmentally friendly livestock sector while improving farmer welfare. Dompu is one of five target districts in Indonesia under the Rp237.2 billion national project.

Forensic Laboratory Results for Sutrimo Expected This Week

The Metro Jaya Police have confirmed that forensic laboratory and re-autopsy results for Sutrimo, the former head of household affairs for ex-Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah, will be released this week. Police are awaiting toxicology results to determine whether poison was present in his body. Investigators have so far questioned 27 witnesses, including ambulance drivers, hospital medical staff, and individuals at the scene.

Wildfires Ravage Indonesia: Here’s What Bali Tourists Need To Know

Wildfires are spreading across Sumatra and Kalimantan, with over 36,000 hectares ablaze and more than 24,000 firefighters deployed. President Prabowo Subianto has ordered the military and police to work with local governments to tackle the fires, while 72 people have been arrested for starting them. Bali is not currently affected but faces heightened drought and wildfire risk, prompting the provincial government to prepare clean water assistance.

Indonesia to Build 14 Solar Power Plants with 5.3 GWp Capacity, PLN Chief Says World's Largest

Indonesia has announced 14 solar power plant projects with a combined capacity of 5.3 gigawatt peak, which PLN's chief executive says will be the largest ongoing solar project in the world. The projects involve an investment of around US$7.7 billion and are expected to save the state budget Rp4.6 trillion annually. The initiative is part of President Prabowo Subianto's push for energy self-sufficiency and reducing diesel fuel imports.

NTT earthquake death toll rises to 103, injuries reach 1,666: BNPB

The death toll from the magnitude-7.7 earthquake that struck East Nusa Tenggara on 15 August has risen to 103, with 1,666 people injured, according to the National Disaster Mitigation Agency. The agency continues to update casualty figures as reports arrive from affected areas, with the majority of fatalities recorded in Manggarai and East Manggarai regencies. President Prabowo Subianto has pledged comprehensive emergency assistance for affected communities.

BNPB urges public to wear mask amid wildfires

Indonesia's National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) has urged residents in wildfire-affected areas to wear masks outdoors as firefighting continues across Sumatra and Kalimantan. The agency also called for public vigilance in preventing fires, warning against burning waste and careless cigarette disposal amid prolonged dry conditions linked to El Nino. Hotspots remain active on peatlands in Riau, West Kalimantan, and South Kalimantan, with containment and cooling operations ongoing.

Surya Semesta Subsidiary Disburses Rp240 Billion for Edenhaus Serpong

PT Surya Semesta Internusa Tbk. (SSIA), through its subsidiary TCP Internusa, has launched the Edenhaus Serpong residential project in South Tangerang with an investment value of Rp240 billion. The project targets a broader market segment with more affordable pricing compared to its predecessor, Edenhaus Simatupang. The launch comes as SSIA's property segment shows strong performance, with consolidated revenue rising 58.4% year-on-year in the first half of 2026.

Smoke haze disrupts flights at Sultan Thaha Airport Jambi

Thick smoke haze from forest and land fires reduced visibility at Sultan Thaha Airport in Jambi, forcing two incoming flights to be diverted to Batam and Palembang. Visibility fluctuated between 800 and 1,500 metres during the afternoon, though departing flights were unaffected. Airport authorities urged passengers to monitor flight updates as conditions remain changeable.

East Java BPBD intensifies water bombing to tackle Mount Arjuno forest fires

The East Java Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) has stepped up aerial water bombing operations to combat forest and land fires on Mount Arjuno-Welirang in Pasuruan Regency. As of Tuesday, the affected area had reached 146.85 hectares, with eight sorties dropping 8,000 litres of water on two fire hotspots that are difficult to reach by land. Around 30 personnel from a joint team are also fighting the blaze from the ground via hiking routes in Batu and Pasuruan.

Oarfish 'Doomsday Fish' Found Stranded at Pink Beach, East Lombok

A four-metre oarfish, locally known as the 'doomsday fish', was found dead at Pink Beach in East Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara. The discovery by campers early on Tuesday morning quickly went viral on social media. Local officials confirmed the unusual find, noting it was the first time such a creature had been seen in the area.

Hasanuddin Airport declares flight operations back to normal

Flight operations at Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport in South Sulawesi have returned to normal after a Navy Cassa aircraft that skidded on the runway was successfully evacuated. The incident occurred a day after an Air Force Sukhoi fighter jet also skidded at the same airport. Investigations into the cause of the Cassa incident are ongoing.

Chinese warship MV Chen Jing Run docks at Bitung Port

The Chinese naval vessel MV Chen Jing Run (Hai Yang 26) has docked at Bitung Container Port in North Sulawesi for replenishment and crew rest. The ship, carrying 140 personnel, is on a voyage from Africa back to China and will remain in Bitung until 29 August 2026. Indonesian Navy officials welcomed the delegation with traditional ceremonies, highlighting ongoing bilateral cooperation.

Telkom allocates 20 percent of revenue to build digital infrastructure

PT Telkom Indonesia plans to allocate 18-20 percent of its revenue to digital infrastructure investment in 2026, citing the projected USD 360 billion digital economy opportunity by 2030. The state-owned enterprise reported consolidated revenue of Rp146.7 trillion in 2025. The investment will fund mobile networks, fibre optics, submarine cables, towers, and data centres.

Riau Police Brimob Equipped with Breathing Apparatus to Tackle Kampar Forest Fire Smoke

Riau Police Mobile Brigade (Brimob) personnel have been deployed to combat forest and land fires in Kampar Regency, equipped with portable breathing apparatus to protect them from thick smoke. The equipment is particularly crucial for operations on deep peatland, where underground embers can reignite even after surface flames are extinguished. A total of 45 Brimob personnel are involved in the joint operation alongside other agencies.

Day 13: Fire at Ciniru TPSA Enters Cooling Phase

The fire at the Ciniru Final Waste Processing Site (TPSA) in Kuningan Regency, West Java, has entered its cooling phase after 13 days of firefighting efforts. The Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) confirmed that the remaining hotspots and smoke have been successfully contained within the TPSA area, preventing any spread to residential land. The operation received logistical support from the Kuningan branch of the Indonesian Medical Association (IDI).

KuMining Expands Access to Proof-of-Work Infrastructure via KAS Cloud Mining

KuMining, the cloud mining platform backed by global cryptocurrency exchange KuCoin, has launched KAS Cloud Mining to broaden its multi-asset mining ecosystem. The service offers eligible users a more accessible route to professional-grade Kaspa mining infrastructure without needing to own or operate specialised hardware. It employs a 'mine first, pay electricity later' model intended to reduce upfront capital requirements.

Girl Bitten by Pitbull in Bandung Undergoes Ear Surgery

A nine-year-old girl in Bandung Regency has undergone surgery after being bitten by a pitbull, sustaining serious injuries to her head and ear. The dog has been moved to a special quarantine facility following an agreement with local neighbourhood officials.

East Kalimantan Police investigate eight forest and land fire reports

East Kalimantan Regional Police are handling eight police reports related to forest and land fires in the province, with investigations underway and a focus on law enforcement to deter those responsible. Authorities are also examining possible corporate involvement, while the regional disaster agency has recorded 273 fire incidents affecting 752 hectares as of 20 August 2026. Air quality monitoring has been stepped up in Berau and Paser regencies due to smoke from local fires and transboundary haze from South Kalimantan.

Minister urges Muslims to emulate Prophet Muhammad and continue Noer Ali's struggle

Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar has called on Indonesian Muslims to follow the example of Prophet Muhammad and national hero KH Noer Ali during a Maulid Nabi commemoration in Bekasi. Speaking at the At Taqwa Islamic boarding school, he emphasised that Islamic teachings remain relevant amid modern scientific and technological progress. The event also marked the 70th anniversary of the foundation, which was established by Noer Ali to develop Bekasi and contribute to the nation.

Cooperatives Ministry strengthens fishermen empowerment on Sembur Island, Batam

The Ministry of Cooperatives is bolstering fishermen empowerment on Sembur Island, Batam, by providing integrated fisheries support facilities including an ice factory, cold storage, and solar-powered fishing boats. The initiative aims to build a value-added fisheries ecosystem managed through the Galang Baru Merah Putih sub-district cooperative. The ministry expects the scheme to create jobs and keep income circulating within the cooperative.

Prabowo Scheduled to Visit Nagekeo Earthquake Evacuees Tomorrow

President Prabowo Subianto is scheduled to visit earthquake evacuees in Nagekeo, East Nusa Tenggara, on Wednesday. The Deputy Regent of Nagekeo confirmed that all preparations are in place, though the detailed itinerary has not been released due to presidential protocol. The visit will focus on the evacuation post at Lapangan Berdikari Danga and RSUD Aeramo.

Dedi Mulyadi Wants Political Parties to Help Oversee West Java Development

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has called for stronger partnership between the provincial government and political parties to jointly oversee the region's development agenda. Speaking at the Democratic Party's regional conference in Bandung, he emphasised the importance of collaboration with parties represented in the West Java Regional House of Representatives. The conference also saw Anton Sukartono Suratto elected unopposed as the party's provincial chairman for the 2026–2031 period.

Public Can Come to Resolve Legal Administration Issues Through This Event

The Ministry of Law's Directorate General of General Legal Administration (Ditjen AHU) will hold a three-day service festival in Bandung from 29-31 August 2026, bringing various legal administration services closer to the public. Visitors can consult, try digital service simulations, and obtain on-the-spot services for eligible applications. The event aims to help citizens resolve outstanding legal administration issues, including a special programme offering direct assistance for actual problems.

Targeting 6 Percent Economic Growth, These Are the Six Growth Engines Prepared by Airlangga

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has outlined six growth engines to push Indonesia's economic growth towards 6 percent amid global uncertainty. The strategy includes downstreaming, energy self-sufficiency, bullion ecosystem development, export proceeds governance, digitalisation, and special economic zones. The government is also strengthening human resources, expanding access to business financing, and pursuing trade diplomacy to support the target.

Serang Regent sends message to voters at NU Congress

Serang Regent Ratu Rachmatuzakiyah has urged Nahdlatul Ulama delegates to elect a leader with integrity, professionalism and strong Islamic scholarship at the 35th NU Congress. She also reaffirmed the Serang Regency government's commitment to working with Islamic organisations. Around 300 people from Serang are travelling to Jombang, East Java, for the congress.

ICP DAS-BMP to Showcase Medical TPU Innovations at Medical Manufacturing Asia 2026

Taiwanese medical-grade thermoplastic polyurethane producer ICP DAS-BMP will exhibit at Medical Manufacturing Asia 2026 in Singapore, presenting its Low-Migration and Low-Friction TPU series alongside medical tubing extrusion and OEM/ODM services. The company will highlight materials compliant with ISO 10993 for implant and invasive device applications, including PFAS-free and plasticizer-free formulations.

Sogang University Opens Tuition-Free Pathway for International STEM Postgraduate Students in Seoul

Sogang University Graduate School has launched a programme offering full tuition waivers to international postgraduate students in science and engineering fields. The initiative combines the Seoul ANCHOR Programme, backed by the Ministry of Education and Seoul Metropolitan Government, with the university's own global scholarship. It aims to attract international talent to build careers in South Korea while providing research, internship, and language support.

Bapanas Chief Vows to Pursue Perpetrators Behind Fortified Rice Price Anomalies

The Head of the National Food Agency (Bapanas) has pledged to pursue those responsible for price anomalies in fortified rice, which he claims have defrauded consumers and disrupted national food trade. Laboratory tests found that 93 percent of sampled brands failed to meet fortified rice claims, with some products sold at Rp42,000 per kilogram despite lacking the advertised nutrients. The government estimates total consumer losses at Rp91 trillion and has referred the case to the Food Task Force.

Malaysia Appreciates Indonesia's Rapid Response in Handling Forest and Land Fires

Malaysia has praised Indonesia's swift action in tackling forest and land fires under President Prabowo Subianto's leadership, citing increased military personnel, large-capacity helicopters, and aggressive weather modification operations. Both nations have agreed to strengthen early prevention efforts against transboundary haze ahead of Malaysia's national celebrations. Malaysia has also expressed readiness to provide assistance to Indonesia if needed.

Dedi Mulyadi invites political parties to jointly oversee West Java development

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has called for stronger partnership between the provincial government and political parties to oversee the region's development agenda. He made the remarks while attending the Democratic Party's sixth regional conference in Bandung, where Anton Sukartono Suratto was unanimously endorsed as the party's West Java chairman. The governor highlighted the importance of collaboration with parties represented in the provincial legislature.

LX Pantos Indonesia Strengthens CSR Commitment by Renovating Schools in Bekasi

LX Pantos Indonesia has completed renovations of two primary schools in Bekasi, West Java, as part of its 2026 corporate social responsibility programme. The initiative aims to create safer and more conducive learning environments while supporting local human resource development. The project continues the company's series of educational facility improvements in the Cikarang area.

Indonesian Healthcare Travel Revenue in Malaysia Hits Record RM2.2 Billion, MHX Returns to Yogyakarta

Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC) is expanding its presence in Indonesia through MHX Yogyakarta 2026, following a record RM2.2 billion in healthcare travel revenue from the Indonesian market in 2025, up 24% year-on-year. The four-day event aims to strengthen trust and access to Malaysian specialist medical services among Indonesian patients. Indonesia remains Malaysia Healthcare's largest market, with 968,000 healthcare traveller arrivals in 2025, a 16% increase from the previous year.

Residents Scramble for Udhik-udhik from Sultan HB X During Kondur Gangsa

Hundreds of residents gathered at the Grand Mosque of the Yogyakarta Palace to receive udhik-udhik, a royal alms distribution, from Sultan Hamengku Buwono X during the Kondur Gangsa procession. The event marked the conclusion of the Sekaten celebrations commemorating the birth of Prophet Muhammad. This year's Garebeg Mulud was held in a simplified manner, with no gunungan procession, following the Sultan's directive.

Jakarta Residents Enjoy 'Japanese Vibes' via Tabebuya Blooms

Tabebuya trees are in full bloom across several Jakarta streets, drawing residents to photograph the pink and white blossoms. Many locals say the scenery evokes the feel of Japan's cherry blossoms and hope the trees will be planted more widely. The blooms have become a refreshing sight amid the capital's traffic and urban heat.

2.1 tonnes of rendang from West Sumatra sent for NTT disaster victims

The West Sumatra provincial government has dispatched 2.1 tonnes of rendang to assist victims of the disaster in East Nusa Tenggara. The aid was handed over by Governor Mahyeldi Ansharullah in Labuan Bajo and distributed through the National Disaster Mitigation Agency's logistics post and Manggarai Regency. The initiative is intended to support both affected residents and field personnel with ready-to-eat food supplies.

Apple to open waitlist for AI-powered Siri when iOS 27 launches

Apple is reportedly planning to introduce a waitlist system for users eager to try its enhanced AI-powered Siri when iOS 27, iPadOS 27, and macOS Golden Gate are released to the public. The waitlist is intended to manage initial demand and allow Apple to adjust server capacity accordingly. The public launch of the new operating systems is expected in September 2026.

WYF Gathers Over 400 Students at Future Liberal Arts Leadership Summit in Macau

The World Youth Forum convened more than 400 students from over 10 countries and territories for the WYF-FLALS 2026 summit in Macau, focusing on the theme 'Our Changing Climate' through interdisciplinary and cross-cultural learning. The five-day event featured academic challenges, projects, and exchanges designed to explore climate change from scientific, economic, social, and cultural perspectives. The summit concluded WYF's 2026 high-level conference series, which collectively engaged over 1,000 young people.

Cimin Vendor Detained for Allegedly Molesting Seven Girls in Cirebon

Police in Cirebon have arrested a 45-year-old street food vendor suspected of sexually abusing at least seven girls aged between six and nine. The suspect allegedly used the pretext of weighing the children to approach them while selling cimin snacks. Authorities are continuing to investigate and have urged any other potential victims to come forward.

Forestry Minister stresses impartial law enforcement on forest and land fires

Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni has affirmed that legal action against forest and land fires will be applied without discrimination, with 42 cases currently under process at the ministry's law enforcement directorate. He warned that sanctions, including administrative revocation of permits, will be imposed on any violator regardless of size, in line with President Prabowo Subianto's directive. The minister also highlighted the challenges of extinguishing fires on deep peatland in Jambi.

Houthis threaten to attack Saudi Arabia's economic facilities

Yemen's Houthi movement has warned it will retaliate against any Saudi attack by striking the kingdom's economic facilities. The threat follows an escalation in July after strikes on the Houthi-held airport in Sanaa, which the group blamed on Saudi Arabia. The conflict between the Saudi-led coalition and the Houthis has continued since 2015.

Malaysian national arrested, police uncover drug-laced vape distribution in Medan

Police in Medan have arrested a Malaysian national and his Indonesian girlfriend for allegedly distributing vape devices containing narcotics. Officers seized 29 vape units and 15,000 Malaysian ringgit in cash, with both suspects testing positive for etomidate. Authorities are now coordinating with Malaysian police to trace the supply network.

Wellness as new creative economy opportunity: Ministry

Indonesia's Deputy Minister of Creative Economy, Irene Umar, has identified wellness as a growing opportunity for the creative economy, driven by rising public interest in health and well-being. She highlighted local assets such as jamu and traditional beverages as having strong potential to be developed into value-added wellness products and experiences. The Festival Merah Putih is presented as an example of integrating creative sub-sectors to strengthen the local creative economy ecosystem and preserve cultural heritage.

Indonesian Navy Aircraft Skids Off Runway at Hasanuddin Airport, Crew Safe

A Cassa aircraft belonging to the Indonesian Navy skidded off the runway while landing at Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport in Maros, South Sulawesi. Airport operator Angkasa Pura Indonesia confirmed there were no casualties and that all crew members were safely evacuated. Flight operations at the airport continued normally following the incident.

Trump Wants to Rename Neighbouring Country's Lake to 'Lake America'

US President Donald Trump has floated renaming Lake Ontario to 'Lake America' amid escalating trade tensions with Canada. The proposal follows his earlier unilateral renaming of the Gulf of Mexico and comes as Washington imposed 50% tariffs on Canadian goods. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has rejected US demands, warning they could destroy Canada's strategic industries.

16 coastal villages in Bima Regency receive 2026 KNMP development programme

Sixteen coastal villages in Bima Regency, West Nusa Tenggara, have been selected for the central government's Kampung Nelayan Merah Putih (KNMP) development programme in 2026. The initiative, funded through the state budget, will allocate between Rp2 billion and Rp9 billion per village, with an initial tranche of Rp50 billion for the regency. Physical construction and equipment procurement will be carried out by third-party contractors selected through central government tender.

Bahlil: 12.6 GW of Power Plants in Indonesia Still Use Diesel

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has revealed that 12.6 gigawatts of Indonesia's power generation capacity still runs on diesel fuel, requiring up to 250,000 barrels per day. The government is accelerating its 100 GWp solar power programme to reduce diesel consumption and cut fuel imports. President Prabowo Subianto officially launched the strategic initiative in Gilimanuk, Bali, with simultaneous online connections to three other solar project sites.

PLN CEO says Indonesia is running the world's largest solar power project

Indonesia has launched the initial phase of what is now the world's largest ongoing solar power project, with a combined capacity of 5.3 GWp across 14 projects. The programme, valued at approximately US$7.7 billion, is expected to save the state budget around Rp4.6 trillion annually. PLN's president director said the initiative supports President Prabowo Subianto's goal of energy self-sufficiency and reducing diesel fuel imports.

Indonesia's first aircraft carrier to debut at TNI anniversary

Indonesia's first aircraft carrier, the ITS Giuseppe Garibaldi, is scheduled to arrive in mid-September 2026 and will participate in the 81st TNI anniversary naval parade. The vessel, acquired through an intergovernmental grant from Italy, will be renamed KRI Gajah Mada and formally commissioned on 25 September 2026, with President Prabowo Subianto expected to officiate. The carrier will also serve as a VVIP vessel for dignitaries and will eventually operate helicopters from all three branches of the Indonesian armed forces.

Wellness as new creative economy opportunity: Ministry

Indonesia's Deputy Minister for Creative Economy has identified wellness as a significant growth opportunity, citing the country's rich cultural heritage and local products such as jamu as assets that can be developed into economically valuable experiences. The Festival Merah Putih is highlighted as a platform that integrates creative sub-sectors to strengthen the local creative economy ecosystem. The initiative aims to transform cultural heritage and lifestyle into competitive products with greater added value.

AINAKI advises creators to adapt character IP to digital-era audiences

The Indonesian Animation Industry Association (AINAKI) has urged creators to understand audience characteristics and choose the right medium when developing character-based intellectual property amid shifting content consumption patterns. AINAKI chairman Daryl Wilson highlighted the challenge posed by children's varied screen time and media options, and noted the absence of agency support for Indonesian creators compared with Japan's consortium model. He said agents could help creators focus on making work while handling business and legal matters.

Medvedev Calls NATO Expansion an Existential Threat to Russia

Dmitry Medvedev, Deputy Chairman of Russia's Security Council, has warned that NATO's expansion into former Soviet territories poses an existential threat to Russian sovereignty. He specifically cited the potential accession of Georgia and Ukraine as a critical flashpoint. Moscow is demanding binding international security guarantees to prevent further escalation.

Economist: Governor fit and proper test should focus on BI transformation

Trimegah Sekuritas Indonesia chief economist Fakhrul Fulvian has urged that the fit and proper test for the Bank Indonesia governor candidate focus on the central bank's long-term transformation rather than short-term interest rate decisions. He highlighted challenges including supply shocks, liquidity transmission, global financial cycles and the need to preserve BI's independence while coordinating with government policy.

Thick Haze Forces Two Aircraft to Abort Landings at Jambi Airport

Two aircraft on the Jakarta–Jambi route were forced to divert after thick haze from forest and land fires reduced visibility at Sultan Thaha Airport in Jambi. A Garuda Indonesia flight was rerouted to Batam and a Citilink flight to Palembang. Visibility at the airport fluctuated between 800 and 1,500 metres throughout the afternoon.

Police detain cimin vendor suspected of molesting seven children in Cirebon

Police in Cirebon, West Java, have detained a 45-year-old street food vendor suspected of sexually abusing at least seven girls aged between six and nine. The suspect allegedly used the pretext of weighing the children to commit the offences while selling cimin snacks. Authorities are continuing to investigate and have urged any other potential victims to come forward.

Dedie Unveils Strategy for Street Vendor Management in Five Strategic Bogor Areas

Bogor's municipal government is preparing a comprehensive plan to reorganise street vendors across five key areas as part of efforts to reduce urban disorder and provide more dignified trading spaces. Mayor Dedie A. Rachim emphasised that the approach is a long-term solution rather than a simple crackdown, integrating spatial planning, micro-enterprise comfort, and city aesthetics. The initiative also supports the central government's ASRI movement for clean and orderly cities.

Road Trip to Bali Gets Better: New Toll Road in East Java to Open Soon

Two sections of the Probolinggo-Situbondo-Banyuwangi (Prosiwangi) toll road in East Java have been completed and received their Operational Feasibility Certificates. The Gending-Kraksaan and Kraksaan-Paiton sections, totalling 24 kilometres, are now awaiting final operational testing before opening. The new toll road is expected to improve connectivity in the Tapal Kuda region and boost logistics efficiency in East Java.

Central Lombok Prosecutor's Intelligence Chief Alfa Dera Transferred to Yogyakarta High Prosecutor's Office

Alfa Dera, the Head of Intelligence at the Central Lombok District Prosecutor's Office, has been promoted to a position at the Yogyakarta Special Region High Prosecutor's Office. During his tenure, he handled corruption cases, pushed for public information transparency, and uncovered alleged shell company schemes involving foreign investment to control land in the Mandalika tourism area. His work also led to improvements in regional revenue systems, with electricity tax receipts projected to rise from around Rp 31 billion to Rp 40 billion.

Sumur Karang Reservoir Dries Up, Disrupting Agricultural Irrigation in Tangerang

The Sumur Karang Reservoir in Kronjo, Tangerang Regency, has dried up after a month-long dry spell, threatening irrigation for local farmland. The 5.7-hectare reservoir's depletion is part of a wider drought affecting 13 sub-districts, with 43 hectares of rice crops at risk of crop failure.

Bitcoin Strengthens 24.3 Percent in a Week, Bittime Says Market Watching US Crypto Regulation

Bitcoin rose 24.3 percent over the past week as markets focused on regulatory developments in the United States, particularly the CLARITY Act. Bittime's operations director cautioned that investors should also monitor Federal Reserve interest rate policy and global economic conditions. The cryptocurrency's sharp movement reflects the market's sensitivity to shifting sentiment.

Projo Clarifies Budi Arie's Viral Statement on 'Political Acceleration'

Projo Secretary-General Freddy Alex Damanik has clarified that Budi Arie Setiadi's viral remarks about possible 'political acceleration' before 2029 were a personal view expressed during a routine internal discussion with volunteers and former President Joko Widodo. He stressed that the statement was not an official Projo position or political manoeuvre. The organisation also reaffirmed its support for the Prabowo Subianto-Gibran Rakabuming Raka administration.

Ministry of Transport urges public to use licensed and roadworthy vehicles

Indonesia's Ministry of Transport has called on the public to verify that vehicles, particularly buses carrying many passengers, are licensed and roadworthy before travelling. Director General of Land Transport Aan Suhanan stressed that operators found running buses with expired documents or periodic test certificates will face strict sanctions. The ministry also encouraged passengers to check vehicle status through its Spionam and Mitra Darat applications.

Former Lecturer Now Teaches Mandarin to Fellow Inmates at Bandung Women's Prison

Leny, a 42-year-old Indonesian former university lecturer in Beijing, is now teaching Mandarin to fellow inmates at Bandung Women's Prison while serving a four-and-a-half-year sentence for fraud. Her conversation-focused teaching method initially attracted up to 60 participants, though numbers fell sharply after an external teacher introduced a more theoretical approach. Leny also shares reflexology skills and describes the prison environment as more rehabilitative than she had expected.

East Java Education Agency Prepares Schools as Transit Points for NU Congress

The East Java Education Agency (Dindik Jatim) is preparing state senior and vocational high schools to serve as transit points for participants of the 35th Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) Congress in Jombang. The initiative aims to address accommodation shortages by offering classrooms, mosques, and sanitation facilities for rest and prayer. Schools in Jombang city and Tembelang sub-district will shift to online learning from 26–28 August to free up space.

Ministry of Manpower and JICA Strengthen Protection for Indonesian Migrant Workers in Japan

Indonesia's Ministry of Manpower (Kemnaker) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) are deepening cooperation to improve the quality and protection of Indonesian migrant workers in Japan. The partnership focuses on upgrading training facilities, enhancing instructor capacity, and aligning worker competencies with Japanese industry needs. The initiative responds to a sharp rise in participants under the Technical Intern Training Program and Specified Skilled Worker scheme.

New SIM Card Registration Mandates Facial Biometrics, NIK Abolished

Indonesia's Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs has made facial biometric verification the sole method for registering new prepaid SIM cards, permanently closing access to the previous NIK and KK number-based system. The policy, effective nationally since 1 July 2026, aims to curb telecommunications fraud and strengthen digital identity security. Nearly 20 million SIM cards have been verified under the new system, with a representative scheme still in place for users under 17.

BPBD Tanah Bumbu Detects Three Hotspots Across Three Sub-districts

The Tanah Bumbu Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) in South Kalimantan has identified three hotspots via the SiPongi forest and land fire monitoring system. Ground teams have been deployed to verify whether the hotspots indicate actual fires or heat reflections from other sources. The agency remains committed to suppressing forest and land fires in the region, having already extinguished fires covering 52.25 hectares between July and August 2026.

Kemnaker and JICA strengthen protection for Indonesian workers in Japan

Indonesia's Ministry of Manpower and JICA are deepening cooperation to improve training quality and worker protection for Indonesians employed in Japan. The partnership focuses on upgrading training facilities, instructor capacity, and aligning competencies with Japanese industry needs. Officials stressed that rising placement numbers must be matched by comprehensive protection and skills development.

Central Sulawesi pursues Rp213 million in excess official travel payments

The Central Sulawesi provincial government is still seeking the return of Rp213.2 million in excess official travel payments by civil servants, following findings by the Supreme Audit Agency (BPK). The total overpayment across 36 regional apparatus organisations reached Rp1.98 billion, with most already recovered. A special claims team has been reactivated to pursue the outstanding amount.

IEU-CEPA Set to Become New Gateway for Indonesian Export Expansion to Europe

Indonesia is targeting the signing of the Indonesia-European Union Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (IEU-CEPA) in October 2026, with ratification to follow. The agreement would liberalise around 98% of tariff lines and provide zero-tariff access for key Indonesian exports such as palm oil, textiles, footwear and rubber products. Trade Minister Budi Santoso said the tariff commitment level is the highest Indonesia has ever offered in a trade agreement.

Police to Question Ruben Onsu in Fraud Case on Friday

South Jakarta Metropolitan Police have scheduled the questioning of celebrity Ruben Onsu as a suspect in an alleged fraud and embezzlement case on Friday, 28 August 2026. The case involves a failed investment scheme in which the victim reportedly lost Rp3.5 billion. Onsu has indicated he wishes to pursue a peaceful resolution and is prepared to return the disputed funds.

Bogor City Targets Completion of Old Angkot Crackdown by End of 2026

Bogor City aims to complete the crackdown on public minivans (angkot) older than 20 years by the end of 2026, with 803 of 1,780 units already having their permits revoked as of 10 August 2026. Mayor Dedie A'Rachim stated the measure implements Regional Regulation No. 8 of 2023 on Transport Administration and reflects public demand for a more orderly transport system. The city is also planning route restructuring and coordination with neighbouring regions to manage intercity transport entering the city centre.

Moment of Arrest of Suspected Thief in Giwangan, He Brandished a Knife at Residents

A suspected thief was apprehended by residents in Giwangan, Yogyakarta, after allegedly brandishing a knife during a pursuit. Police confirmed the man, a 36-year-old from Blora, Central Java, was attempting to break into a food stall and was later subjected to mob justice before being taken into custody. The suspect is now undergoing further investigation.

Woman in South Central Timor Named Suspect After Killing Husband with Shockbreaker

A 56-year-old housewife in South Central Timor, East Nusa Tenggara, has been named a suspect after allegedly beating her husband to death with a shockbreaker. Police say the incident followed repeated threats and domestic violence, with the husband reportedly drunk and threatening to kill her. The suspect faces up to 15 years in prison under Indonesia's domestic violence law.

Facial biometrics now the sole method for new SIM card registration

Indonesia's Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs has confirmed that facial biometric verification is now the only method for registering new prepaid SIM cards, with the previous NIK and family card number mechanisms permanently closed. The policy has been in force nationally for nearly two months without reported obstacles for users aged 17 and above. For those under 17, registration must be represented by the biometrics of a family head or guardian.

Prophet Muhammad's Birthday: A Moment to Emulate the Leadership and Economic Justice of the Prophet

Indonesian Muslim leaders have called on the faithful to use the Prophet Muhammad's birthday as a moment to revive his exemplary leadership and economic justice in daily life. They argue that the Prophet's values of trustworthiness, consultation, tolerance, and moral integrity are highly relevant to addressing national challenges such as corruption, intolerance, economic inequality, and moral decline. The commemoration should move beyond ceremonial activities to inspire practical change in society.

Neighbouring Bangladesh Quietly Moves to Acquire Chinese Fighter Jets

Bangladesh is preparing to enter formal negotiations with China over the purchase of J-10CE fighter jets and attack helicopters, in what would be one of its largest arms acquisitions in recent years. The deal would further deepen Dhaka's military ties with Beijing, which has been the country's dominant arms supplier for two decades. Bangladesh is reportedly considering up to 24 J-10CE aircraft to modernise its air force.

Bareskrim Uncovers THC-Laced Sweets Circulation in Malang, One Arrested

Indonesia's Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim) has intercepted a shipment of sweets containing the narcotic delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in Malang, East Java, and arrested a suspect. The suspect had reportedly ordered THC-laced products from abroad on four separate occasions, claiming they were for personal use. Police estimate the seized drugs could have saved around 115 people from narcotics abuse.

Maluku BKSDA seizes six protected animals from ship passengers

The Maluku Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA) has confiscated six protected birds from passengers at Yos Sudarso Port in Ambon. The seized animals include rainbow lorikeets, red lories, purple-naped lories, and a Moluccan cockatoo. The birds will undergo quarantine and health checks before being released back into their natural habitat.

Banten Governor hopes NU Congress brings new ideas for Islamic boarding schools

Banten Governor Andra Soni has expressed hope that delegates from the province's Nahdlatul Ulama branch will return from the 35th NU Congress with fresh ideas to support the development of Islamic boarding schools in Banten. He emphasised NU's historical role in strengthening religious and national values within the framework of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia. The congress is scheduled to take place from 27 to 31 August 2026 at Bahrul Ulum Islamic Boarding School in Jombang, East Java.

Trauma Healing and Health Services Aid Earthquake Survivors at Kkottongnae Orphanage

Police in West Manggarai, together with trauma healing teams from Central Java Police and medical personnel, have provided psychosocial support and free health checks to residents of the Kkottongnae orphanage following the Flores earthquake. The initiative targeted children, the elderly, and people with disabilities who remain in emergency tents. Authorities also distributed food packages and mattresses to support the vulnerable group during the emergency response period.

Indonesia's first aircraft carrier base enters finishing phase

Indonesia is nearing completion of its first aircraft carrier base in Lampung, with the facility expected to be fully operational by the end of next month. The former Italian Navy vessel ITS Garibaldi is due to arrive in Indonesia between 15 and 20 September, where it will be renamed KRI Gajah Mada and inaugurated by President Prabowo Subianto on 25 September. The development marks a significant expansion of Indonesia's naval capabilities and maritime defence infrastructure.

Bandung city government eyes Pasar Baru as Special Economic Zone

The Bandung city government is planning to develop the Pasar Baru and Old Chinatown area into a Special Economic Zone (KEK) focused on economic activity, culinary tourism, and creative economy. Mayor Muhammad Farhan said the development will be carried out through private investment cooperation, with the government responsible for regulation and spatial planning. Road improvements around the area are scheduled for 2027, and the city is also considering shuttle transport linking Husein Sastranegara International Airport to the district.

Malaysia appreciates Indonesia's swift action to tackle forest and land fires

Malaysia has praised Indonesia's rapid response to forest and land fires under President Prabowo Subianto's leadership, including the deployment of 1,500 additional military personnel and aggressive weather modification operations. Both countries have agreed to intensify cross-border haze prevention efforts ahead of Malaysia's National Day and Malaysia Day celebrations. Malaysia has also secured Indonesian approval for cloud seeding flights over border areas and stands ready to assist Indonesia if needed.

Forestry Minister assures government accelerating forest fire handling

Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni has confirmed the government is accelerating efforts to tackle forest and land fires across several regions. He stated that President Prabowo Subianto has instructed him to remain on the ground and verify that directives issued to ministries, agencies, and local governments are being implemented. The minister recently led a coordination meeting in Jambi to ensure concrete action is taken.

Forest and Land Fires in Six Provinces Unresolved, BNPB: Weather Modification Hindered, Water Sources Dry

Indonesia's disaster mitigation agency (BNPB) reports that thousands of hotspots remain across six provinces in Sumatra and Kalimantan, with forest and land fires proving difficult to extinguish due to dry weather, lack of cloud cover for weather modification, and depleted water sources. Peatland fires are particularly challenging as they burn underground and require extensive cooling. The government is pursuing weather modification when possible, constructing wells and canals, and continuing law enforcement against perpetrators.

SOE Profit of Rp330 Trillion Surpasses Temasek, Danantara Prepares Expansion to Mecca and the Philippines

Indonesia's state-owned enterprises recorded a consolidated profit of Rp330 trillion, exceeding Temasek Holdings' net profit of around Rp136 trillion. Danantara plans to use this financial strength to expand SOE investments globally, including hotel acquisitions in Mecca and potential expansion of Pegadaian into the Philippines. The profit is projected to rise to Rp360 trillion in 2026.

Police prepare 403 personnel to educate on forest fire prevention

The Indonesian National Police is deploying 403 personnel from its education and training institute to educate communities on preventing forest and land fires. The initiative follows directives from President Prabowo Subianto and National Police Chief Listyo Sigit Prabowo to intensify prevention efforts. Personnel will be dispatched to eight police regions across Kalimantan and Sumatra, focusing on raising awareness of causes, impacts, and community involvement.

Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources and Pertamina launch 1 MW solar power plant on Sembur Island, Riau Islands

The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources and PT Pertamina have launched a 1 MW solar power plant on Sembur Island in Batam, Riau Islands, providing residents with 24-hour electricity for the first time. The project is among the first under the national 100 GWp solar programme and is expected to cut household energy costs from around Rp500,000 to Rp200,000 per month. Officials hope the scheme will serve as a model for other areas still lacking reliable power access.

Jakarta's Jaksinema Mini Cinema at Pasar Rumput Draws Crowds on Maulid Holiday

Jakarta residents spent the Maulid Nabi Muhammad SAW public holiday visiting the newly opened Jaksinema mini cinema at Pasar Rumput flats in Tebet. The facility, inaugurated by Deputy Governor Rano Karno, offers affordable tickets starting at Rp15,000 on weekdays and Rp20,000 on holidays. Officials say the initiative supports the vision of Jakarta as a 'City of Cinema' and strengthens the local film and creative economy ecosystem.

72 People Named Suspects in Forest and Land Fires, Police Investigate Blazes in 9 Regions

Indonesian police have named 72 individuals as suspects in forest and land fire cases across nine provincial police jurisdictions. Environment Minister Moh Jumhur Hidayat stressed that law enforcement is a key government priority, with investigations also targeting corporations whose concession areas have burned. The government is preparing administrative sanctions, civil lawsuits, environmental compensation claims, and ecosystem restoration cost recovery.

PLN Supplies Electricity and Wi-Fi Network at 35th NU Congress Arena in Jombang

State electricity company PLN has confirmed its readiness to support the 35th Nahdlatul Ulama Congress in Jombang, East Java, with reliable power supply and Wi-Fi connectivity across the venue. PLN Commissioner Ali Masykur Musa inspected the Tambakberas site and said the support is part of the company's corporate social responsibility programme. The congress is scheduled to be opened by President Prabowo Subianto.

Several PCNU in East Java's North Coast Region Yet to Decide on Support Direction

A number of Nahdlatul Ulama branch boards (PCNU) along East Java's northern coast have not yet declared support for any candidate ahead of the 35th NU Congress in Jombang. Officials acknowledge that campaign teams have approached them, but support remains fluid, though incumbent chairman Yahya Cholil Staquf is still seen as having a strong chance of re-election.

Minister Bahlil encourages IPPs to develop 100 GWp solar power projects

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has urged independent power producers to take on the government's 100 gigawatt peak solar power programme, with competitive pricing as the key condition. If private firms are not interested, the government will finance the projects through Danantara, following President Prabowo Subianto's directive for efficient and affordable execution. The initial phase includes 14 projects, several of which are ready for tender.

Initial Investment for 100 GWp Solar Power Programme Reaches Rp135 Trillion

The Indonesian government requires approximately Rp135 trillion (US$7.7 billion) to develop 14 initial solar power projects with a combined capacity of 5.3 GWp. The projects form the first phase of an ambitious 100 GWp national solar programme aimed at reducing diesel dependence and cutting emissions. The initiative is projected to save Rp4.6 trillion annually in state budget spending while supporting rural electrification and the electric vehicle ecosystem.

Bank Indonesia East Kalimantan-assisted MSMEs record Rp1.14 billion in sales at KKI 2026

Micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) mentored by Bank Indonesia's East Kalimantan representative office achieved Rp1.14 billion in sales at the 2026 Karya Kreatif Indonesia (KKI) event in Jakarta. The top performer was Manika Kaltim, a producer of rattan bags and beads, with sales of Rp615.29 million. Nationally, the event recorded Rp144.2 billion in sales, up 46 percent from 2025, alongside export business matching worth Rp169.9 billion involving 192 MSMEs and buyers from 16 countries.

Children's Joy Watching TV Together at Nagekeo NTT Evacuation Post

Dozens of children affected by the Flores earthquake in Nagekeo, East Nusa Tenggara, found a moment of happiness watching television at an evacuation post. The TV was provided by police officers as a form of entertainment to help ease their fear of aftershocks. The death toll from the magnitude 7.7 earthquake has risen to 103, with over 185,000 people still displaced.

BATIC 2026 Opens a New Chapter in Asia Pacific Digital Transformation

Telkom Indonesia's international arm, Telin, is hosting the 11th Bali Annual Telkom International Conference (BATIC) 2026, bringing together over 2,700 delegates from 67 countries to discuss AI, global connectivity, cloud, and digital infrastructure. The event highlights Indonesia's strategic position as a prospective digital market in Asia Pacific and introduces ignitePRO, a new executive conference focused on enterprise transformation through Autonomous AI. Telkom executives emphasised the importance of collaboration and submarine cable infrastructure in supporting the region's growing digital economy.

Indonesia adds hydrant wells to prevent recurring peatland fires

Indonesia is expanding its network of hydrant wells in Jambi to strengthen firefighting capacity against recurring peatland fires, with Minister of Forestry Raja Juli Antoni announcing additional wells, hoses and maintenance. The government has also prepared a weather modification operation and deployed 500 ground personnel, while local officials report 135 hotspots and 108 hectares of burnt peatland in East Tanjung Jabung from January to August 2026. The initiative highlights the strategic role of water storage infrastructure and community collaboration in protecting vulnerable peat ecosystems.

Prabowo Jokes to Ministers: If You Can't Handle It, Step Aside; Many Want to Replace You

President Prabowo Subianto jokingly warned his ministers that many people are eager to take their positions if they cannot perform, during the launch of the national 100 GWp solar power programme in Bali. He noted that the Red and White Cabinet has almost no days off, with even national holidays being used for work. The programme aims to strengthen national energy independence and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

Maulid Nabi Celebration in Tangerang City Marked by Gunungan Procession

Thousands of residents in Tangerang City took part in a vibrant gunungan procession to mark the Maulid Nabi, the Prophet Muhammad's birthday. Mayor Sachrudin emphasised that the commemoration serves to strengthen Islamic outreach, love for the Prophet, and community bonds. The celebration concluded at Masjid Al Ittihad, where attendees were served 3,000 portions of nasi kebuli and shared in the traditional gunungan offerings.

Russian National Detained by Immigration for Filming KNPB Protest as Social Media Content

Indonesian immigration authorities have detained a 39-year-old Russian citizen, AP, for allegedly misusing his tourist visa by documenting a West Papua National Committee (KNPB) demonstration in Wamena. Officials said AP had visited Papua around ten times between 2024 and 2026 and planned to use footage of the 15 August 2026 protest as content for his Instagram and YouTube accounts. The Directorate General of Immigration stressed that foreign nationals must respect visa conditions and will face action if found to be disrupting public order.

House member urges formation of special team to evaluate decile data

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has called on the government to establish a special team to evaluate decile data after anomalies were found that could threaten citizens' access to social protection programmes. Selly Andriany Gantina highlighted cases where data appeared to contradict visible conditions on the ground, including a pedicab driver classified in decile 9 while a village head was in decile 8. She urged the government not to rely solely on decile rankings and to improve data updating and appeal mechanisms.

Sandiaga Uno Appointed President Commissioner of MUTU, Grand Vision Revealed

PT Mutuagung Lestari Tbk (MUTU) has appointed Sandiaga Uno as president commissioner and Roestiandi Tsamanov as deputy president director following an extraordinary general meeting of shareholders. The leadership changes are intended to strengthen corporate governance and accelerate business expansion, innovation, and sustainability-driven development. Sandiaga Uno highlighted the company's significant potential to become a key player in Indonesia's green economy ecosystem.

Singapore to Reclaim Three Islands in Major Land Expansion Plan

Singapore has announced plans to merge several southern islands, including Pulau Semakau, Pulau Bukom, and Pulau Sudong, into a new 'western island' over the coming decades. Prime Minister Lawrence Wong outlined the vision in his 2026 National Day address, citing the success of Jurong Island as inspiration. The reclaimed land will support next-generation industries, advanced manufacturing, power infrastructure, and defence needs.

Shootout in Kotabumi Lampung: 1 Fugitive Killed, 3 Police Officers Shot

A wanted drug suspect was killed in a shootout with police in North Lampung, while three officers sustained gunshot wounds. The incident occurred during an operation targeting illegal firearm possession, and police are investigating the suspect's links to a wider illegal arms network.

Minister Bahlil: 100 GWp Solar Power Programme to Target Villages Without Electricity

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has announced that the 100 gigawatt peak solar power programme will prioritise villages that still lack electricity access. The initiative follows President Prabowo Subianto's directive to provide one megawatt of power per village. President Prabowo officially launched the strategic programme in Gilimanuk, Bali, with simultaneous online connections to three other solar project locations.

Former BIN Chief Syamsir Siregar Passes Away, Buried at Kalibata Heroes Cemetery

Major General (Ret.) Syamsir Siregar, who served as head of the State Intelligence Agency (BIN) during President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono's first term, has died in Jakarta. He was buried at the Kalibata Heroes Cemetery in South Jakarta, with senior officials including Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Djamari Chaniago and National Economic Council Chairman Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan attending the funeral.

Labuan Bajo Bishop Distributes Aid to Earthquake Victims

The Bishop of Labuan Bajo, Mgr. Maksimus Regus, has personally distributed basic food aid to residents affected by the earthquake in West Manggarai, East Nusa Tenggara. The diocese, through Caritas, has reached over 2,866 households in the first phase of emergency relief. The second phase will expand services to include free healthcare, psychosocial support, and sanitation packages.

DPR Calls for Special Team to Evaluate Decile Data of KIP Recipients

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has proposed forming a special team to evaluate the decile data used for distributing the Smart Indonesia Card (KIP). The evaluation aims to ensure the National Socio-Economic Single Data (DTSEN) accurately reflects community conditions and does not block vulnerable families from accessing education assistance. The lawmaker also urged the government to provide a fast, free, and transparent appeal mechanism for citizens to correct data discrepancies.

Siak to Hold Rain Prayer Amid Forest Fire Haze Disaster

The Siak Regency Government, together with the Indonesian Ulema Council and the Ministry of Religious Affairs, will hold a mass Istisqa prayer on Wednesday to ask for rain as forest and land fires continue to blanket Riau in hazardous haze. The regent has also urged interfaith leaders to hold joint prayers, while Friday sermons will remind congregations of the MUI fatwa declaring forest burning haram. Air quality in Siak has reached unhealthy and even dangerous levels, prompting the local government to consider school closures and activity restrictions.

BRI Strengthens Diaspora Ecosystem Empowerment in Taiwan, Supports Migrant Workers to Grow and Thrive

Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) has launched its BRImo Taiwan digital banking application in New Taipei City, expanding its financial ecosystem for Indonesian migrant workers in Taiwan. The launch builds on the success of BRI's Taipei branch, which has accumulated over US$408 million in assets and processed approximately US$490 million in remittances to Indonesia as of July 2026. BRI is also running entrepreneurship and skills development programmes for migrant workers, aiming to help them convert their overseas earnings into savings, investments, and business capital.

Transmigration No Longer Just About Moving People, Here's the New Paradigm

Indonesia's Ministry of Transmigration is repositioning transmigration areas as new economic growth centres aimed at creating productive jobs, raising incomes, and attracting investment. The approach, endorsed by University of Glasgow economist Prof. Soner Başkaya, prioritises building economic ecosystems before population movement. Minister M. Iftitah Sulaiman Suryanagara outlined five flagship programmes to implement the paradigm, including legal land certainty and investment-driven job creation.

BRI Wins Eight Awards at PRIMA Awards 2026 for Digital Payment Services

PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia (Persero) Tbk secured eight accolades at the PRIMA Awards 2026, recognising its leadership in electronic transaction services and payment systems. The awards span acquiring, issuing, ATM, digital channels, and QRIS claim rate categories. BRI highlighted its extensive e-channel network of over 621,000 touchpoints as key to expanding public access to digital transactions across Indonesia.

LPSK Grants Protection to Ferry Boboho, Key Witness in Febrie Adriansyah Case

The Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) has granted full protection to Ferry 'Boboho' Hongkiriwang, a key witness in the corruption and money laundering case involving former Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah. The decision was made on 18 August 2026 after assessing the witness's crucial information regarding the Asabri-Jiwasraya case and the high potential threat given the suspect's former position of power. Protection includes procedural rights fulfilment, accompaniment during legal proceedings, and periodic monitoring.

Motorcycle Thief in Depok Flees Chaotically, Fires Shots

A motorcycle thief in Sukmajaya, Depok, fired shots at pursuing residents before escaping on the victim's scooter. Police have confirmed the incident and are hunting the suspect, who left his own motorcycle behind.

American Water Facilities Targeted by Hackers, Advanced Weapons Useless

Cyberattacks linked to Iran-affiliated groups have breached water and wastewater facilities across at least seven US states, exposing critical vulnerabilities in America's fragmented water infrastructure. The attacks highlight how small, under-resourced utilities with outdated systems and weak credentials are easy targets, while federal cybersecurity standards for the water sector remain absent. Proposed budget cuts to EPA cybersecurity funding contrast sharply with increased defence spending, raising concerns about the resilience of essential public services.

Video: Forest Business Owners Use Drones and CCTV to Prevent Land and Forest Fires

The Indonesian Forest Entrepreneurs Association (APHI) has outlined measures to prevent and control land and forest fires across Sumatra, Java, and Kalimantan in 2026. The association is collaborating with palm oil producers and government bodies, utilising drones, CCTV, fire watchtowers, and early detection systems. Chairman Soewarso detailed these preparations in an interview with CNBC Indonesia.

Balikpapan to Implement Subsidised Fuel Distribution Rules from 1 September

The Balikpapan city government will introduce time-based restrictions and designated filling stations for subsidised Pertalite and Biosolar from 1 September 2026. The policy aims to reduce long queues and ensure more equitable distribution to eligible recipients. Five additional stations will be prepared specifically for motorcycles, while certain stations will be reserved for four-wheeled and larger vehicles.

Grebeg Maulud Festivities at TMII: Residents Scramble for Fruit and Vegetable Cones

The Grebeg Maulud tradition was held at the Yogyakarta pavilion in Taman Mini Indonesia Indah, Jakarta, to commemorate the birth of Prophet Muhammad. Residents scrambled for fruit and vegetable cones after a procession, symbolising gratitude and prosperity. The event served as a platform for preserving Javanese heritage and introducing Yogyakarta culture to the wider public.

DPR member proposes special team to evaluate decile data for KIP recipients

A member of House Commission VIII has called for a special team to thoroughly evaluate decile data underpinning the National Socio-Economic Single Data (DTSEN), warning that flawed data could block vulnerable families from education assistance. Selly Andriany Gantina urged stronger field verification and temporary protection for recipients near decile thresholds to prevent loss of benefits due to administrative changes.

Sefri Afikar: Planting mangroves, atoning for the past

Sefri Afikar, a 54-year-old amputee from Bengkalis, Riau, has dedicated his life to mangrove restoration after a hit-and-run accident left him disabled. He sees the work as a form of redemption for past environmental destruction. His daily efforts involve nurturing thousands of mangrove seedlings along the coast of Sepahat village.

PUI: Prophet Muhammad's Birthday a Momentum to Improve Morals and Care for Nature

The Indonesian Islamic Union (PUI) has called for the Prophet Muhammad's birthday commemoration to be used as a moment to improve moral character and environmental stewardship. Professor Achmad Tjachja Nugraha emphasised that the occasion should move beyond ceremonial activities and inspire honesty, trustworthiness, justice and care for nature in daily life. He also linked the message to Indonesia's independence, arguing that true freedom must be filled with moral development and national unity.

Diky Candra's Blusukan Activities Supported by DPR RI and DPD Members

Tasikmalaya Deputy Mayor Raden Diky Candranegara's community outreach activities have received backing from national legislators. DPR RI member Lola Nelria Oktavia and DPD member Alfiansyah Bustomi have supported his visits to neighbourhoods during Independence Day and Maulid Nabi celebrations. The support includes distributing aid to residents, including for a community-built madrasah and elderly groups.

Pasbata Responds to Projo Chairman Budi Arie's Statement

Pasbata chairman David Febrian has urged the public not to turn Projo chairman Budi Arie Setiadi's remarks about potential political dynamics before 2029 into a new controversy. He argued that Budi Arie's statement should be read in full as a response to earlier political discourse, particularly comments by former deputy minister Denny Indrayana. David criticised Denny for speculating that President Prabowo might not complete his term and for urging Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka to resign.

Fraud Case of Rp3.5 Billion: Police Explain Why Ruben Onsu Is Not Detained

South Jakarta Metropolitan Police have not detained celebrity Ruben Onsu despite naming him a suspect in an alleged fraud and embezzlement case involving Rp3.5 billion. Police cited his cooperative behaviour and compliance with investigative procedures as reasons for the decision. The case stems from an investment agreement that allegedly failed to deliver promised returns.

Cutting Diesel Use in 12.6 GW of Indonesia's Electricity, Bahlil Confident Fuel Imports Will Fall

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has announced that 12.6 gigawatts of Indonesia's electricity still relies on diesel, requiring around 230,000–250,000 barrels per day. The government is accelerating a 100 GWp solar power programme to reduce this dependence and lower diesel imports. President Prabowo Subianto officially launched the programme in Gilimanuk, Bali, with projects also connected online in Central Java, Riau Islands, and Bangka Belitung.

Budi Arie Sparks Early Election Speculation, PSI Distances Itself

The Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI) has firmly distanced itself from former cooperatives minister Budi Arie Setiadi after a viral video showed him discussing the possibility of accelerating the general election. PSI deputy chairman Andy Budiman stressed that Budi Arie is not a member, official, or secretary-general of the party and demanded that his name not be linked to PSI. Meanwhile, Gerindra said it remains focused on supporting President Prabowo Subianto's programmes and is not discussing the 2029 election.

ITB Peduli NTT Builds Emergency Shelters and Maps Post-Earthquake Needs

Institut Teknologi Bandung (ITB) has deployed a humanitarian mission to earthquake-affected areas of Nusa Tenggara Timur, constructing ten emergency family shelters and assessing infrastructure damage. The team coordinated with the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) to prioritise aid distribution in Manggarai and Manggarai Timur regencies. Assessment findings will inform follow-up support for shelter rehabilitation, clean water provision, and public facility restoration.

35th NU Congress Expected to Produce a Unifying Chairman

The 35th Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) Congress, scheduled for 27–31 August 2026 in Jombang, East Java, is expected to produce a Rais Aam and Chairman capable of uniting the organisation. President Prabowo Subianto is slated to open the congress, which is seen as a crucial moment to strengthen solidarity among NU members. Figures from the Garda Ulama presidium have expressed confidence that the many emerging candidates reflect a healthy cadre development process within NU.

Initial phase of 100 GWp solar power programme requires Rp135 trillion investment

The Indonesian government needs approximately Rp135 trillion to develop 14 solar power projects with a combined capacity of 5.3 GWp as the first phase of its 100 GWp solar programme. President Prabowo Subianto reviewed the plan during a visit to the Gilimanuk solar plant in Bali. The initial projects are projected to save the state budget around Rp4.6 trillion annually.

Drug Fugitive Shot Dead by Lampung Police, Three Officers Injured

A wanted drug suspect identified as PHP was killed in a shootout with police in North Lampung after resisting arrest and opening fire on officers. Three police officers were injured in the exchange, one seriously enough to require transfer to a hospital in Bandarlampung. Police recovered a homemade revolver and ammunition and are investigating the suspect's links to illegal firearms networks.

Police Summon Ruben Onsu Over Alleged Investment Fraud on 28 August

Celebrity Ruben Onsu has been summoned for questioning as a suspect in an alleged fraud and embezzlement case reported to the South Jakarta Metropolitan Police. Police have scheduled his examination for 28 August 2026, and have explained why he has not been detained despite his suspect status. The case stems from a complaint filed in August 2025 by an individual who claims Onsu failed to return investment capital or deliver promised profits.

PSI Firm on Budi Arie: Not a Member, Not an Official, Not the Secretary-General!

The Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI) has publicly distanced itself from Budi Arie Setiadi, stating he holds no position within the party. Deputy Chairman Andy Budiman criticised Budi Arie's political manoeuvres, suggesting he was embittered after being reshuffled from the cabinet. PSI urged the public to stop associating Budi Arie's statements and actions with the party.

Prabowo: Disaster Response in Aceh and NTT Was Swift, We Are Serious

President Prabowo Subianto has asserted that the government responded rapidly to recent disasters in Aceh and East Nusa Tenggara, despite facing various national challenges. He linked the state's capacity to fund such responses, including hundreds of helicopters and heavy equipment, to ongoing efforts to combat corruption and plug financial leaks. Prabowo stressed that the government remains committed to improving state financial management and will not be complacent.

Former PCINU Turkey Chairman Outlines Three Criteria for PBNU Chairman Candidates

Ahmad Munji, former chairman of the Nahdlatul Ulama Special Branch in Turkey, has set out three key criteria for the next leader of Indonesia's largest Islamic organisation ahead of its 35th Congress in Jombang. He emphasised depth of religious scholarship, managerial capability, and cross-cultural diplomacy as essential qualities. Munji also noted that the international dimension has been largely absent from current public debate about the candidates.

Conduciveness as Infrastructure for Economic Trust

The article argues that social stability and public order are intangible infrastructure essential for sustaining Indonesia's economic momentum. It highlights strong GDP growth and investment figures while warning that prolonged disruptions from demonstrations could harm small businesses and daily wage earners. The author calls for a balance between freedom of expression and maintaining conditions that support business confidence and job creation.

Shootout in North Lampung: wanted man dead, three police officers injured

A man on the police wanted list for a narcotics case was killed in a shootout with officers in North Lampung, while three policemen sustained injuries. The suspect, identified by the initials PHP, allegedly opened fire on officers during an operation prompted by reports of illegal firearm use. Police recovered a homemade revolver and ammunition and are investigating possible links to a wider illegal firearms network.

Bank BSN Holds Mass Contract Signing for 10,000 Financing Agreements, Subsidised Mortgages Dominate

PT Bank Syariah Nasional (Bank BSN) has simultaneously executed 10,000 sharia financing contracts across Indonesia as part of its first anniversary as a full-fledged Islamic commercial bank. Subsidised home mortgages accounted for 6,550 of the agreements, underscoring the bank's role in expanding access to affordable housing. The lender also reported strong financial growth, with assets rising 22.2% year-on-year to Rp81.1 trillion as of July 2026.

Forestry Law Enforcement Directorate Targets Three Corporations in Jambi Over Suspected Forest Fire Involvement

The Ministry of Forestry's Law Enforcement Directorate is investigating three corporations in Jambi in connection with 42 forest and land fire cases. Minister Raja Juli Antoni has pledged impartial enforcement, stating that no party will be spared regardless of size. The Jambi Regional Police have separately named eight suspects in seven cases, though none involve corporations thus far.

Building a Nation of Engineers from the Provinces

An opinion piece argues that Indonesia should shift its focus from the national shortage of engineers to developing complete engineering ecosystems in each province. Drawing on regional innovation studies from China and India, the author proposes that every province select two to five engineering missions based on its economic structure. Success should be measured by active engineering employment, industrial R&D, and technological capability rather than graduate numbers alone.

AINAKI urges local animation industry to develop more character-based IP

The Indonesian Animation Industry Association (AINAKI) is calling on local studios to create more original character-based intellectual property to reduce reliance on outsourced production work for foreign companies. AINAKI chairman Daryl Wilson argues that owning IP generates broader economic benefits through films, merchandise, comics and events. He stresses that strengthening both IP ownership and production capacity must go hand in hand.

5,922 Forest and Land Fire Hotspots Surround Six Provinces

Indonesia's National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) reports 5,922 forest and land fire hotspots across six priority provinces, with South Sumatra and West Kalimantan among the worst affected. The agency continues to coordinate firefighting efforts while hoping for rainfall to reduce the number of hotspots and improve air quality.

ASITA NTT pushes for 3A-based tourism recovery after Flores earthquake

The Indonesian Travel Companies Association (ASITA) in East Nusa Tenggara is urging a recovery of the tourism sector following the Flores earthquake by focusing on three key elements: attractions, amenities, and accessibility. The association stresses that these components must be restored and confirmed operational to bring tourists back to the region. It also calls for official government statements and positive media campaigns to reassure travellers that destinations are safe and ready to receive visitors.

NU 35th Congress Participants Quarantined at Sukolilo Hajj Dormitory, Media Barred from Entry

A day before the 35th Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) Congress, arriving participants are being held at the Sukolilo Hajj Dormitory in Surabaya under tight security, with journalists prohibited from covering activities inside. The sudden provision of transit facilities has raised suspicions that participants are being quarantined at the initiative of a candidate for PBNU chairman before proceeding to the congress venue in Jombang.

Beyond Building Solar Power Plants, Bahlil Accelerates Conversion of Diesel Power Plants to Clean Energy-Based Generation

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has announced that the government will continue to push for the conversion of diesel power plants to cleaner energy sources, alongside the construction of new solar power plants. He cited PLN's efforts in Bangka Belitung, which are utilising wind and solar power to replace diesel, as an example. The minister highlighted that such conversions could reduce diesel consumption and ease the subsidy burden on the state budget.

State-Backed Banking Giant BRI Expands Microservices Architecture in Taiwan as Annual Remittance Inflows Target $900 Million

PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia is expanding its digital banking infrastructure in Taiwan to capture a larger share of the lucrative remittance corridor for Indonesian migrant workers. The state-owned lender has deployed a microservices-based mobile platform to overcome geographical barriers and informal remittance risks, with annual inflows projected to reach up to $900 million. This expansion strengthens BRI's fee income and deposit base while supporting Indonesia's foreign exchange pipeline.

SOE Profits Surge by Hundreds of Percent, Prabowo Wants to Award Rosan State Honour

President Prabowo Subianto has announced plans to confer a state honour on Danantara CEO Rosan Roeslani, citing the dramatic improvement in state-owned enterprise profitability under his leadership. Speaking at the launch of a 100 GWp solar power programme in Bali, Prabowo highlighted that SOE earnings have risen by hundreds of percent in under two years. He also detailed specific profit increases across major SOEs, including a ninefold rise at PT Timah.

Experts: Peatland Fire Prevention Must Be Science-Based

IPB University experts have urged a science-based approach to preventing forest and land fires in Indonesia's peat ecosystems. They argue that peat fires are driven by interconnected technical and non-technical factors, requiring comprehensive monitoring, water management, and community engagement. The experts also stress that fire investigations must be evidence-based to accurately determine causes and responsibility.

Pekanbaru extends online learning until Friday due to haze

The Pekanbaru city government has extended distance learning for students from early childhood education through junior secondary school until Friday, 28 August, citing deteriorating air quality caused by haze. The policy follows air quality readings in the unhealthy to hazardous range and aims to protect student health. Schools are also instructed to maximise home assignments, while the free nutritious meal programme remains suspended during the remote learning period.

Cutting Diesel Dependence, Bahlil Accelerates Solar Power Plant Construction to Villages

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has confirmed the government will expand solar power plant development to villages without electricity access. The programme forms part of a target to build 100 gigawatt peak of solar capacity. It aims to support rural electrification and reduce reliance on diesel fuel.

Suspect in Murder of Mother and Grandmother in West Pasaman Faces 20 Years in Prison

A 32-year-old man in West Pasaman, West Sumatra, faces up to 20 years in prison for the alleged murder of his mother and grandmother. Police have charged the suspect under the new Criminal Code, which allows an increased penalty when the victim is a close family member. Investigators are also looking into the suspect's background, including possible mental health issues or drug use.

Immigration deports Russian national involved in illegal publication in Papua

Indonesian immigration authorities have deported a Russian citizen found to have engaged in activities inconsistent with his tourist visa after documenting a protest by the West Papua National Committee in Wamena. The man had visited Papua approximately ten times between 2024 and 2026 and admitted to capturing photos and videos of the demonstration for his social media accounts. Officials stressed that foreign nationals must respect the terms of their visas and that immigration will act against any misuse of residence permits or threats to public order.

Forestry Minister Pursues Weather Modification to Tackle Forest and Land Fires in Jambi

Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni has pledged to deploy weather modification operations in Jambi to combat forest and land fires, citing the province's vulnerable peatlands and high number of hotspots. The minister's statement follows discrepancies between official reports to President Prabowo Subianto and the ongoing fires observed on the ground. Operations are scheduled to begin on 27 August 2026.

Leading in Digital Payments, BRI Sweeps Awards at PRIMA Awards

PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia (Persero) Tbk secured eight awards at the 2026 PRIMA Awards for its performance in electronic transaction services and payment systems. The recognition spans acquiring and issuing bank categories, highlighting the bank's strength in digital payment channels and QRIS transactions. BRI reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining secure, reliable and accessible digital payment services across Indonesia.

Clean Water Crisis Hits 38 Villages in Tasikmalaya, 46,993 People Affected

The Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) of Tasikmalaya Regency has distributed free clean water to 11,095 households, or 46,993 residents, across 38 villages in 23 sub-districts affected by a worsening water crisis. The drought, exacerbated by the El Niño phenomenon, environmental degradation and climate change, has also caused 2,150 hectares of farmland to fail and fish ponds to shrink. Emergency response operations are continuing despite a lack of contingency budget, with personnel relying on personal funds for operational costs.

Ahead of NU Congress, Political Expert Views Consolidation of Voter Support as Normal

A political analyst has described efforts to consolidate support among eligible voters ahead of the Nahdlatul Ulama congress as a normal part of organisational contests. Adi Prayitno noted that branch and regional executives retain the right to reject such approaches to preserve their independence.

Sandiaga Uno Officially Appointed President Commissioner of MUTU International

Sandiaga Uno has been formally appointed as President Commissioner of PT Mutuagung Lestari Tbk (MUTU) following an extraordinary general meeting of shareholders. The appointment comes after he acquired a 1.19 per cent stake in the company through a private placement in July 2026. MUTU expects his strategic perspective to strengthen its position in the green economy, carbon markets, halal services and digital traceability.

The Mandalika Investor Donates Rp 2 Billion to Sade Fire Victims

Sapo Development, a foreign investor in The Mandalika area, has donated Rp 2 billion to assist victims of the fire that struck the traditional village of Sade in Central Lombok. ITDC is coordinating relief efforts alongside 32 state-owned enterprises operating in West Nusa Tenggara, with various forms of aid being distributed to affected residents. The fire reportedly damaged 75 homes, a mosque, traditional structures, and numerous artisan shops in the village.

Police have not detained Ruben Onsu as he is deemed not to obstruct investigation

South Jakarta Police have not detained celebrity Ruben Onsu, a suspect in an alleged fraud and embezzlement case involving Rp3.5 billion, because he is considered cooperative and has provided factual information. Investigators say Onsu has not ignored summonses, attempted to flee, destroy evidence, or influence witnesses. He is scheduled for further questioning as a suspect on Friday, 28 August.

Ministry of Human Rights investigates land complaint affected by KPC project in East Kutai

The East Kalimantan Regional Office of the Ministry of Human Rights is investigating a complaint from residents regarding 486 square metres of land affected by a river channel improvement project by PT Kaltim Prima Coal in Kutai Timur Regency. The ministry has conducted field inspections and dialogues with the company and local officials to gather substantive facts. Mediation involving village government and technical agencies will be facilitated to resolve the dispute through deliberation.

Prabowo: Oil Lifting Must Rise, We Must Not Import a Single Barrel!

President Prabowo Subianto has reaffirmed his government's commitment to achieving energy self-sufficiency by boosting domestic oil lifting and eliminating all oil imports. Speaking at the groundbreaking of the 100 GWp solar power plant in Jembrana, Bali, he also ordered an end to LPG imports. Prabowo expressed optimism that the 100 GWp solar target could be reached in under three years, challenging his energy team to complete it within two years.

Have a Small Plot at Home? These 7 Hydroponic Plants Could Be a Money-Maker

A guide to turning limited home space into a profitable hydroponic micro-business. The article identifies seven fast-growing, high-demand crops suited to terraces, balconies and small yards, with practical advice on targeting restaurants, caterers and households. It highlights strategies such as weekly supply contracts, bundling and staggered planting to secure repeat orders.

Indonesia sets three-year target for 100 GW solar power capacity

President Prabowo Subianto has launched an ambitious programme to build 100 gigawatts of solar power capacity within three years, citing Indonesia's vast solar potential of 3,294 GWp. The initiative is expected to deliver energy self-sufficiency and save up to Rp73.9 trillion annually in electricity costs while reducing reliance on imported energy.

Kamang Baru Police Arrest Drug Dealer in Sijunjung, Seize Digital Scales

Police in Kamang Baru, Sijunjung Regency, have arrested a 34-year-old trader suspected of dealing methamphetamine along the Trans-Sumatra Highway. The arrest followed a public tip-off and resulted in the seizure of meth packages, digital scales, mobile phones, a motorcycle, and cash. Authorities are continuing to investigate possible links to a wider narcotics network.

South Kalimantan Brimob opens field kitchen to supply food in forest fire areas

The South Kalimantan Police Mobile Brigade (Brimob) has deployed a field kitchen vehicle capable of producing 300 portions per cooking session to support personnel and residents affected by forest and land fires. Two water treatment units have also been activated to provide ready-to-drink water for communities facing drought during the prolonged dry season. The initiative follows directives from the provincial police chief as firefighting efforts continue across several locations in Banjarbaru.

Land Fires in Mataram on the Rise, Four Incidents Recorded in a Week

The Mataram Fire Department has reported a significant increase in land fires as the dry season sets in, handling more than four incidents in the past week. Most fires are caused by unattended rubbish burning and discarded cigarette butts in dry areas. Officials have urged residents to be vigilant and ensure fires are fully extinguished before leaving them.

Bundaran HI Underground Space Project Spanning Over 4,000 Square Metres to Be Completed Next Year

Construction of the extended concourse beneath Jakarta's Bundaran HI has reached 24 per cent progress as of August 2026, with completion targeted for June 2027. The Rp148.2 billion project is being undertaken by PT Integrasi Transit Jakarta, a subsidiary of PT MRT Jakarta, and is intended as a gift for Jakarta's 500th anniversary. The facility will connect directly to surrounding buildings and integrate with Transjakarta and MRT services.

Depok Immigration Uncovers Human Trafficking Scheme Using 'Mail-Order Bride' Modus to China, Dowry Rp70 Million

The Depok Immigration Office has dismantled a suspected human trafficking operation that lured victims with promises of marriage and a Rp70 million dowry to send them to China as 'mail-order brides'. A married couple acting as recruiters was arrested during a passport application interview. Authorities have handed the case to Depok Police for further investigation.

Expanding Electricity Access to Villages, Bahlil Confident 100 GWp Solar Power Project Will Be Completed in 3 Years

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has announced that the government's 100 GWp solar power plant programme will be implemented on a massive scale and completed within three years. The initiative aims to extend electricity access to villages that have never been connected to the grid, in line with President Prabowo's directive for 1 MW of solar capacity per village. The government is also pushing to convert diesel-fired power plants to renewable energy sources to reduce fuel imports.

South Kalimantan Forestry Service deploys 150 personnel to prevent forest fires in protected forest

The South Kalimantan Forestry Service has mobilised 150 personnel and six heavy equipment units to strengthen prevention and handling of forest and land fires in the Liang Anggang protected forest area. The deployment aims to ensure any hotspots are quickly extinguished before they spread into the protected forest. The effort involves coordination with the provincial social service, regional police, and the Indonesian Navy.

Prabowo breaks ground on 100 GWp solar power project

President Prabowo Subianto has officially launched the first phase of Indonesia's 100 GWp solar power programme, beginning with 14 plants across six provinces. The initiative is framed as a major step away from fossil fuels, with the government targeting completion of the full 100 GWp capacity within three years. The ceremony was attended by several senior ministers from the Red and White Cabinet.

West Sumatra Government Sends 2.1 Tonnes of Rendang for NTT Earthquake Victims

The West Sumatra provincial government has dispatched 2.1 tonnes of rendang as emergency food aid for victims of the NTT earthquake. Governor Mahyeldi Ansharullah personally handed over the aid at the BNPB logistics post in Labuan Bajo and in Manggarai Regency. The choice of rendang was deliberate, as the dish is durable and practical for distribution in disaster situations.

China's Foreign Ministry Responds to US: China-Iran Cooperation Must Not Be Interfered With

China has firmly rejected the United States' threat of new sanctions against Iran, asserting that its cooperation with Tehran is conducted within international law and cannot be interfered with. Beijing warned that economic warfare and maximum pressure will only exacerbate tensions. The statement comes as Washington delays its so-called 'Economic D-Day' while threatening sanctions against countries that refuse to sever economic ties with Iran.

Regent Jeje Orders Inspectorate to Audit BOS Fund Usage at SMPN 02 Ngamprah

West Bandung Regent Jeje Ritchie Ismail has ordered the regional inspectorate to audit the use of School Operational Assistance (BOS) funds at SMPN 02 Ngamprah after the school's poor condition drew public attention. Despite receiving Rp1.3 billion in central government funding this year, the school has broken windows, damaged toilets, peeling walls and collapsed ceilings. The regent expressed disappointment that the school, which holds a National Adiwiyata award, failed to use the permitted 20 per cent of BOS funds for basic maintenance.

Indonesia Officially Launches 100 GW Solar Power Project with Rp1,140 Trillion Investment

President Prabowo Subianto has officially launched Indonesia's 100 gigawatt peak solar power programme, beginning with 14 projects across six provinces. The initiative, valued at approximately US$73 billion, is projected to create 5.52 million jobs and cut energy subsidies by Rp73.9 trillion annually. The government aims to complete the programme within three years, with the possibility of accelerating the timeline to two years.

Dukcapil Issues 358 Civil Documents for Earthquake Victims in West Manggarai

Indonesia's Directorate General of Population and Civil Registration (Dukcapil) has deployed mobile service teams to West Manggarai Regency following the magnitude 7.7 earthquake that struck East Nusa Tenggara. The initiative, ordered by Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian, aims to restore lost or damaged identity documents such as electronic ID cards, birth certificates, and family cards. The service is provided free of charge across seven affected districts on Flores Island.

Police schedule Ruben Onsu examination for Friday

South Jakarta Metropolitan Police have scheduled the questioning of Ruben Onsu as a suspect in an alleged fraud and embezzlement case for Friday, 28 August. The case stems from an investment offer made by Onsu to a victim, DM, who reportedly suffered losses of up to Rp3.5 billion. Police upgraded the case to the investigation stage in April after examining six witnesses, including experts.

Bahlil: Total Investment for 100 GWp Solar Power Plant Exceeds Rp 1,140 Trillion

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has announced that the 100 GWp solar power plant programme will require a total investment of approximately US$73 billion, or over Rp 1,140 trillion. The project is expected to generate annual subsidy savings of Rp 73.9 trillion and create around 5.52 million jobs. The government has commenced the initial phase with a groundbreaking for 5.3 GWp of capacity, including 1,000 MW in Bali equipped with battery energy storage.

Prabowo affirms state presence in facing disasters and forest fires

President Prabowo Subianto has emphasised the government's integrated response to earthquakes, extreme weather, and forest and land fires across Indonesia. He highlighted the large-scale deployment of helicopters, aircraft, water pumps, and personnel to control the fires, expressing optimism that they will be fully contained within one to two weeks. The President also praised rapid responses to disasters in Aceh and East Nusa Tenggara.

Pekanbaru Extends Online Learning for Students Due to Haze

The Pekanbaru city government has extended distance learning for all PAUD, kindergarten, primary and junior secondary school students for a further three days as air quality remains at hazardous levels due to forest and land fires. Parents are urged to keep children indoors and collect free nutritious meal programmes from schools on their behalf. Air quality in the Riau provincial capital has been recorded at dangerous levels, with PM2.5 concentrations far exceeding safe limits and hundreds of acute respiratory infection cases reported.

AINAKI explains AI's impact on animation industry: it won't replace humans

The Indonesian Animation Industry Association (AINAKI) says artificial intelligence will significantly impact animation workflows but will not replace animators. Chairman Daryl Wilson argues that AI is a tool whose output depends on human input and must still be reviewed by professionals. He urges animation workers to embrace new technology while maintaining their existing knowledge and skills.

Video: Unveiling the Effects of Indonesia's Credit Card on the Payment System Business

Bank Indonesia and the Indonesian Payment System Association have launched the Indonesian Credit Card to strengthen the domestic payment system. The central bank has also expanded the 0% Merchant Discount Rate for QRIS transactions, effective 1 October 2026, to encourage digital payment adoption among micro, small, medium, and large merchants. Netzme's CEO sees these policies as boosting QRIS usage and driving business efficiency for payment service providers.

Police Arrest Malaysian National for Drug-Laced Vape Trafficking in Medan

Police in Medan have arrested a Malaysian man and his Indonesian girlfriend for allegedly supplying and distributing vape devices containing narcotics. The suspects were found in possession of 29 drug-laced vape units and cash in Malaysian ringgit suspected to be proceeds from sales. Authorities are now coordinating with the Royal Malaysia Police to apprehend the syndicate's leader.

5 of the World's Most Heavily Guarded Locations—Off-Limits, Including an 'Alien Centre'

The world contains several restricted locations closed to the public to protect isolated indigenous communities, fragile archaeological sites, national security interests, and global food reserves. These sites include North Sentinel Island, the Vatican Apostolic Archive, the Lascaux Caves, the Svalbard Global Seed Vault, and the secretive US military base Area 51. Access is generally limited to researchers or authorised personnel to ensure security and preservation.

Government Urged to Consider These Points in Delivery Service Tariff Rules

The Indonesian Online Motorcycle Taxi Community (KAJOL) has urged the government to consider overall daily driver income rather than focusing solely on per-order tariffs when drafting new regulations for goods and food delivery services. KAJOL warns that excessively high tariffs could reduce order volumes and ultimately lower driver earnings. The community also calls for balanced rules that improve driver welfare while remaining affordable for users.

Smoke from West Kalimantan Forest Fires Persists, Respiratory Infection Cases in Pontianak Rise 10 Percent

The Pontianak Health Office has reported a 5 to 10 percent increase in acute respiratory infection cases over the past week, attributed to thick smoke from forest and land fires in West Kalimantan. Vulnerable groups such as the elderly, pregnant women, and those with asthma are urged to limit outdoor activities and wear masks. Officials also warned residents against using initial rainwater during the dry season due to contamination risks.

Minister Bahlil says 12.6 GW of Indonesia's electricity still uses diesel

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has revealed that 12.6 gigawatts of Indonesia's electricity supply still relies on diesel fuel, requiring around 230,000–250,000 barrels per day. The government is accelerating its 100 GWp solar power plant programme to reduce diesel consumption, with Bali's 300 MWp solar and 1,000 MWh battery project targeting operation by 2028.

East Kotawaringin extends forest and land fire emergency response for 20 days

The East Kotawaringin district government in Central Kalimantan has extended its forest and land fire emergency status by 20 days until 15 September 2026 due to continuing hot weather and rising fire incidents. Nearly 7,900 hotspots have been recorded since January, approaching levels seen during the severe 2019 fire season.

100 GWp Solar Power Plant to Save Rp73.9 Trillion in Annual Subsidies

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has launched a 100 GWp solar power plant programme in Jembrana, Bali, projected to reduce national energy subsidies by Rp73.9 trillion annually. The US$73 billion megaproject is expected to create approximately 5.52 million new jobs and cut carbon emissions by 140 million tonnes of CO2 per year. The initiative forms part of the government's strategy to reduce diesel fuel imports and expand rural electrification.

Prabowo hopes forest fires can be extinguished within two weeks

President Prabowo Subianto has expressed optimism that forest fires raging across Indonesia will be fully extinguished within one to two weeks, citing coordinated efforts by ministries, the military, police, and regional governments. Speaking at the launch of a 100 GW solar power program in Bali, he attributed the severe dry season to the El Niño phenomenon and praised the deployment of aircraft, helicopters, and thousands of personnel for firefighting operations.

Fire at IKIP Complex in Duren Sawit Destroys 40 Houses

A fire broke out at the IKIP residential complex in Duren Sawit, East Jakarta, on Tuesday morning, destroying at least 40 permanent and semi-permanent houses. The Jakarta Fire and Rescue Service deployed 18 fire engines and 90 personnel to bring the blaze under control. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

During Prophet Muhammad's Birthday Commemoration, Dadang Supriatna Firmly Bans Civil Servants from Online Gambling

Bandung Regency Regent Dadang Supriatna has instructed the local civil service agency to take immediate action against civil servants suspected of involvement in online gambling. Speaking at a Prophet Muhammad's birthday commemoration event, he warned that any civil servant found engaging in online gambling would face sanctions. The regent also emphasised that the regency is working to optimise its locally generated revenue after a Rp 1 trillion reduction in central government transfers.

Electricity Infrastructure Readiness Ahead of 35th NU Congress Confirmed Safe

PLN has confirmed that electricity and telecommunications infrastructure at the Tambakberas area in Jombang, East Java, is ready ahead of the 35th Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) Congress. Independent Commissioner Ali Masykur Musa inspected the venue and stated that PLN is committed to supporting the event, which is scheduled to be opened by President Prabowo Subianto. The support includes Wi-Fi installation through PLN Icon Plus and is part of the company's social and environmental responsibility programme.

ISPA cases in Pontianak rise 10 percent amid haze

The Pontianak Health Office has recorded a 5-10 percent increase in acute respiratory infection (ISPA) cases over the past week as haze from forest and land fires blankets the city. Health officials are urging vulnerable groups to limit outdoor activity and wear masks. Waterborne diseases remain stable, with most residents using monitored bottled water.

BNPB urges residents in forest and land fire affected areas to wear masks

Indonesia's National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) has called on residents in areas affected by forest and land fires to wear masks, particularly when outdoors. The agency also warned that El Niño conditions could persist until mid-September 2026 and urged the public to avoid activities that could spark fires. Firefighting and cooling operations continue across multiple districts in West and South Kalimantan.

Ebola Cases in DR Congo Reach 5,514 with 2,642 Deaths; 10 African Countries Tighten Borders

The Democratic Republic of Congo has recorded 5,514 confirmed Ebola cases and 2,642 deaths, with 55 new cases reported in a single day. The worsening outbreak has prompted ten African countries to tighten health checks at border crossings with Congo. A new vaccine, Ervebo, has been deployed from global stockpiles and may offer some protection against the Bundibugyo strain of the virus.

Prabowo Orders Revocation of Corporate Permits Linked to Riau Forest Fires

President Prabowo Subianto has instructed authorities to revoke the permits of corporations proven to have deliberately set forest and land fires in Riau. Speaking during a limited cabinet meeting, he demanded police and prosecutors investigate any company found to have ordered local communities to burn land. He also requested the names of five palm oil firms previously sanctioned for failing to meet fire prevention obligations.

Maulid Nabi Tradition at Benda Kerep Islamic Boarding School in Cirebon Held Without Loudspeakers

Thousands of Muslims gathered at the Benda Kerep Islamic boarding school in Cirebon to commemorate the Prophet Muhammad's birthday, continuing a long-standing tradition that eschews loudspeakers in favour of unamplified voices. The event featured all-night prayers, recitation of the Al-Barzanji, and a distinctive communal meal served in buckets, with local households preparing up to a thousand portions each. Organisers emphasised that the celebration serves as a means of strengthening faith and devotion to the Prophet rather than as a mere ceremony.

Indonesia's 100 GW solar power project attracts US$62 billion

Indonesia's ambitious 100 GW solar power programme, launched by President Prabowo Subianto in Bali, is expected to draw US$62 billion in investment and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 140.16 million tonnes of CO2. The initiative aims to replace diesel-powered plants, saving Rp73.9 trillion annually in subsidies while integrating battery storage to eliminate fuel oil use in Bali's electricity system by 2028.

One Company Named Suspect in West Kalimantan Forest Fires, Another Under Investigation

Indonesian forestry law enforcement has named one company a corporate suspect over forest and land fires in Mempawah Regency, West Kalimantan, while another is under investigation in Ketapang. The cases emerged from hotspot reports and expanded into alleged forest encroachment, with investigators tracing who controlled, used, and benefited from the affected areas. Officials stressed that fire suppression and law enforcement must run in parallel, with administrative and civil sanctions also available alongside criminal prosecution.

UN Condemns Israeli Threats Over Kites from Gaza: Outrageous!

The United Nations has strongly condemned Israeli threats to evacuate residents from areas in Gaza where kites, drones and balloons are launched. A UN human rights spokesperson called the threats 'outrageous' and criticised 'unacceptable rhetoric' from Israeli leaders. Israel has warned Hamas it will intensify operations if the launches continue, while Hamas denies responsibility and accuses Israel of using the incidents as a pretext for airstrikes.

Thanksgiving Ahead of Achmad Bakrie XXII Awards, Aninditha Anestya Bakrie Delivers Touching Message

The organising committee for the 22nd Achmad Bakrie Awards held a thanksgiving gathering at Taman Ismail Marzuki in Jakarta, with chairwoman Anindhita Anestya Bakrie expressing appreciation for the cross-company and cross-foundation collaboration behind the event. The awards, themed 'Real Action for Indonesia', will honour four distinguished figures in science and technology, health, social thought, and arts and culture.

Prabowo: Indonesia Must Not Import a Single Barrel of Oil or LPG Cylinder Again

President Prabowo Subianto has declared that Indonesia must end all imports of oil and LPG within three years to strengthen national energy independence. The target is supported by the launch of a 100 gigawatt peak solar power programme in Jembrana, Bali, alongside geothermal development, gas field expansion and increased domestic oil lifting. Prabowo framed the initiative as essential for national sovereignty and called on his cabinet to deliver concrete results.

Land Fire Threatens Settlements, East Kalimantan Brimob Disaster Response Team Deployed

The East Kalimantan Police Mobile Brigade (Brimob) deployed its disaster response team to extinguish a land fire in Balikpapan that threatened residential areas and urban forest vegetation. Personnel worked alongside combined firefighting units and local residents to bring the blaze under control. The Brimob commander urged the public to avoid careless disposal of cigarette butts and slash-and-burn land clearing.

Coordinating Deputy Minister Hanif: Intensify patrols to prevent South Kalimantan forest and land fires from spreading

Coordinating Deputy Minister for Food Hanif Faisol Nurofiq has called for intensive patrols in fire-prone areas of South Kalimantan to enable early detection and rapid deployment of resources before blazes spread. He also stressed the need for a clear command system, while Governor Muhidin emphasised strengthening water sources through targeted borehole drilling. The coordination meeting also reviewed the mapping of firefighting equipment readiness across agencies.

ASITA NTT to distribute donations and assess destination readiness after earthquake

The NTT chapter of the Association of Indonesian Tours and Travel Agencies (ASITA) will distribute funds raised for communities affected by the Flores earthquake while simultaneously checking the readiness of tourist destinations, hotels, and restaurants to receive visitors again. The fundraising drive runs from 17 to 31 August 2026, with proceeds to be used for goods for affected residents. According to a report from the Labuan Bajo Flores Authority, 54 hotels, restaurants, and cafés were damaged, and 11 tourist attractions remain temporarily closed.

Underground Multifunction Space at Hotel Indonesia Roundabout Targeted for Completion in 2027

Construction of a 4,439 square metre underground extended concourse at the Hotel Indonesia Roundabout in Jakarta has reached 24 percent completion as of August 2026, with a target completion date of June 2027. The Rp148.2 billion project is being undertaken by PT Integrasi Transit Jakarta, a subsidiary of PT MRT Jakarta, and is intended as a gift for Jakarta's fifth centenary. The facility will connect directly to Plaza Indonesia, Grand Hyatt, Wisma Nusantara, Hotel Pullman, and the Transjakarta bus stop, improving integration between public transport modes.

NTT Governor Temporarily Lifts Ban on Subsidised Fuel for Out-of-Province Vehicles Following Earthquake

The East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) provincial government has temporarily lifted its restriction on subsidised fuel purchases for vehicles with out-of-province licence plates following the magnitude 7.7 earthquake that struck Flores Island. Governor Emanuel Melkiades Laka Lena said the relaxation was ordered from the first day of the disaster to ensure relief vehicles, health workers, and volunteers can operate without fuel constraints. The measure will remain in place during the emergency period.

BMKG: Sarolangun Records Highest Number of Hotspots in Jambi

Sarolangun Regency has the highest concentration of hotspots in Jambi Province, with 154 of the 348 detected on 24 August 2026. The total represents a significant decrease from the previous day's 432, but BMKG warns that fire and haze risks remain widespread. Residents are urged to remain vigilant as dry weather and southeasterly winds could facilitate the spread of smoke.

Jember Regent Appreciates Thousands of Students in 2026 Collaborative Community Service Programme

Jember Regent Muhammad Fawait has praised thousands of university students participating in the 5th Collaborative Community Service Programme (KKN) of 2026, highlighting their smooth fieldwork without causing public complaints. He noted that a key task, the data collection of the poorest 20 percent (Desil 2), reached 85 percent completion with a respectful and calm approach. The regent bowed to students and lecturers as a gesture of gratitude, while also encouraging participants who found partners during the programme to complete their undergraduate studies.

Trade Deals Offer Indonesia Chance to Expand Halal Product Exports

Indonesia's expanding trade agreements are seen as a strategic opportunity to strengthen its domestic halal industry and boost exports into the global halal supply chain. An Indef researcher urged stronger certification, research, and MSME support so Indonesia can move from being primarily a consumer market to a producer and exporter. Malaysia was cited as a model for using foreign direct investment and trade diplomacy to become a halal manufacturing hub.

To Prevent Forest and Land Fires from Spreading, National Police Deploy 403 Education Personnel to 8 Provinces

The Indonesian National Police has deployed 403 personnel to eight fire-prone provinces to educate communities and promote early prevention of forest and land fires. The deployment follows a directive from National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo and involves police education institutions. The initiative aims to build public awareness, as community participation is considered key to preventing new fire hotspots.

BNPB Official Clarifies Viral Interview on NTT Earthquake from Café

A BNPB official has addressed a viral video showing him giving a live television interview from a restaurant near Labuan Bajo airport during the NTT earthquake response. Plt Kapusdatin BNPB Berton SP Panjaitan explained that the interview took place outside office hours while he was performing public communication duties, and that Labuan Bajo served as a key logistics hub for the operation. He urged the public not to judge based on short video clips without proper context.

Vacant Land Fire in Makassar Leaves No Casualties

A fire consumed approximately 5,000 square metres of dry brush on vacant land in the Tallasa City area of Makassar, South Sulawesi, but caused no casualties or building damage. The Makassar Fire and Rescue Service deployed 14 personnel and three fire engines, bringing the blaze under control within two hours. Management of the Tallasa City development confirmed the incident was isolated to land owned by PT Parangloe Indah and that all operations have returned to normal.

Bahlil: 100 GWp Solar Power Programme Could Create 5.52 Million Jobs

Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Bahlil Lahadalia has stated that the 100 GWp solar power programme is central to achieving national energy independence, cutting carbon emissions, and generating millions of jobs. Speaking at the programme's launch in Gilimanuk, Bali, he highlighted Indonesia's domestic solar panel and battery storage industries as key strengths. President Prabowo Subianto reaffirmed the government's commitment to reach the 100 GWp target within three years.

Prabowo launches 100 GWp solar power programme in Bali

President Prabowo Subianto has inaugurated the 100 GWp solar power plant programme in Gilimanuk, Jembrana, Bali. The project is targeted for completion within three years. It forms part of the National Priority Work Programme for Energy and Water Independence, aimed at reducing national dependence on fossil fuels.

BPK records Rp2.17 billion must be recovered to Banggai regional treasury

The Audit Board of Indonesia (BPK) has identified Rp2.17 billion in findings that must be recovered or collected by the Banggai Regency government in Central Sulawesi. The sum stems from overpayments, late penalties, and unclaimed project guarantees across several agencies. The regent has committed to following up on the BPK recommendations.

Surabaya Shipping Corporation Distributes 60 Tonnes of Aid for Flores Earthquake Victims

PT Dharma Lautan Utama (DLU) Holding, together with its business partners, has dispatched 60 tonnes of humanitarian aid to earthquake-affected communities in Nagekeo Regency, East Nusa Tenggara. The assistance includes food staples, supplies for infants and nursing mothers, portable toilets, generators, and educational materials for children in evacuation shelters. The aid was handed over directly to the Nagekeo Regency BPBD and will be distributed to individual evacuation posts to ensure it reaches those in need.

Pearls from the Prophet's Maulid for a Wounded Flores

The commemoration of Prophet Muhammad's birthday carries a profound lesson: compassion must transcend religious and social boundaries. This is exemplified by cross-faith solidarity efforts following the Flores earthquake, including a Muslim volunteer serving Catholic communities and fundraising initiatives from Jakarta. Such actions demonstrate that authentic religious practice manifests as moral energy to rebuild shared hope amidst universal suffering.

Ahead of NU Congress, Solo Raya PCNU Reject Money Politics, Propose Ahwa Ballots Be Submitted Just Before Voting

Branch leaders of Nahdlatul Ulama (PCNU) across the Solo Raya region have agreed to reject pressure and money politics ahead of the organisation's 35th Congress in Jombang. They are also proposing that ballots for selecting Ahlul Halli wal Aqdi (Ahwa) members be submitted as close as possible to the tabulation process. The proposals aim to safeguard the integrity and legitimacy of the congress of Indonesia's largest Islamic organisation.

Chinese Tourist Dies After Drowning at Long Beach, Padar Island

A Chinese tourist, Zou Huarong, has died after drowning at Long Beach on Padar Island within Komodo National Park. The incident has prompted Padar Heritage Conservation to call for a joint evaluation of safety, preparedness, and emergency response standards in the area. The organisation highlighted that similar incidents have occurred several times at Long Beach.

Saudia Travel Fair 2026 Held in Jakarta, Offering Flight Promotions of up to 40 Percent

Saudia Indonesia is hosting the Saudia Travel Fair 2026 in Jakarta from 27-30 August, offering discounts of up to 40 percent on international flights. The airline says the extended four-day event reflects growing Indonesian enthusiasm for global and religious travel. Promotional round-trip fares from Jakarta start at around Rp 7.6 million for economy class to Milan and Geneva.

IESR Outlines Six Steps to Achieve 100 GW Solar Power Target

The Institute for Essential Services Reform (IESR) has welcomed the launch of Indonesia's 100 GW solar power programme and proposed six priority measures to ensure its success by 2029. The think tank stressed that execution, regulatory certainty and grid readiness will be more important than the number of groundbreaking ceremonies. It also highlighted the strategic significance of launching the programme in Bali, which aims to achieve net zero emissions by 2045.

From Banyumas to the Global Market, MSMEs Secure Rp460 Million in Export Potential

Micro, small, and medium enterprises from the Banyumas Raya region have secured potential export transactions worth approximately Rp460 million following business matching sessions at the 2026 Karya Kreatif Indonesia event. Buyers from Africa, Singapore, and the United States expressed interest in local products, with one US buyer already in the sample-shipping stage for Abon Koki. Bank Indonesia's Purwokerto representative office noted that the achievement signals growing international market potential for the region's flagship products.

Bandung City Government Prepares Rp 56 Billion for BRT PSO, Awaiting Agreement from 5 Regions

The Bandung city administration has allocated up to Rp 56 billion to support Bus Rapid Transit operations through a Public Service Obligation scheme, but payment is being withheld pending a joint agreement on cost-sharing among six regional governments. Mayor Muhammad Farhan said the total annual PSO requirement is estimated at around Rp 200 billion, with Bandung expected to contribute nearly 25 percent. The city is also seeking to resolve outstanding issues from BRT construction, including parking relocation and impacts on street vendors.

Bundaran HI underground project targeted for completion in June 2027

Construction of the 4,439 square metre extended concourse beneath Bundaran HI has reached 24 percent progress as of August 2026, with completion targeted for June 2027 to coincide with Jakarta's 500th anniversary. The Rp148.2 billion project, undertaken by PT Integrasi Transit Jakarta, is Indonesia's first underground public space development. It is expected to improve connectivity between MRT, Transjakarta and surrounding commercial buildings while boosting visitor numbers by up to 6,000.

Italian Aircraft Carrier Giuseppe Garibaldi to Arrive in Indonesia Mid-September, Renamed KRI Gajah Mada

The Indonesian Navy's first aircraft carrier, currently the ITS Giuseppe Garibaldi, is scheduled to arrive in Indonesia in mid-September 2026 after departing from Italy. The vessel, acquired through an intergovernmental grant, will be renamed KRI Gajah Mada and formally commissioned on 25 September, with President Prabowo Subianto expected to attend the ceremony. The carrier will support helicopters from the Navy, Air Force, and Army, and will be used to train pilots for deck landings.

Minister Bahlil: 100 GWp solar power programme to drive national energy self-sufficiency

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has said the government's 100 gigawatt peak (GWp) solar power programme is a strategy to strengthen national energy self-sufficiency. Speaking at the programme's launch in Gilimanuk, Bali, he highlighted Indonesia's domestic solar panel and battery storage industries as key foundations. The project is projected to save up to 6 million kilolitres of diesel annually and create 5.52 million cumulative jobs.

Suspended for Failing to Pay Rp60.8 Billion Bond Interest, Here Is ADHI Management's Solution

The Indonesia Stock Exchange has suspended trading in shares of state-owned construction firm PT Adhi Karya (Persero) Tbk after the company delayed payment of bond interest due on 24 August 2026. The suspension follows a bondholders' meeting that failed to reach a quorum on a proposed moratorium, and Pefindo has downgraded the company's rating to idB with a negative CreditWatch. Management says it will hold another bondholders' meeting on 11 September 2026 and is continuing a broader restructuring programme.

XTB Indonesia Expands Product Range Through CFDs

PT XTB Indonesia Berjangka has launched contracts for difference (CFD) trading after securing regulatory approval from BAPPEBTI, allowing clients to trade gold, silver, oil, palladium and natural gas. The launch follows rapid growth in Indonesia, with funded accounts rising 741.51% in H1 2026 compared with H2 2025. The company says the new product complements its existing offering of over 650 US stocks and global ETFs.

President Prabowo Praises Dedication of Red and White Cabinet: No Public Holidays!

President Prabowo Subianto has lauded the extraordinary commitment of his Red and White Cabinet, stating that ministers and agency heads work without regard for public holidays. Speaking at the launch of a 100 GWp solar power programme in Bali, he warned that those unable to keep pace with the cabinet's work rhythm should step aside. The President also highlighted achievements in food self-sufficiency and the transformation of state-owned enterprises under Danantara.

Gajah Mungkur Floating Solar Plant Begins Construction, Could Meet 37% of Wonogiri's Electricity Needs

Construction has commenced on the Gajah Mungkur floating solar power plant in Central Java, part of a nationwide 100 GWp solar programme launched by President Prabowo Subianto. The 134 MWp facility, backed by approximately Rp1.6 trillion in investment, is projected to generate 218 GWh annually and begin operations by 2027. The project is expected to supply around 37% of Wonogiri Regency's electricity demand while supporting Indonesia's broader energy independence goals.

PWNU Central Java Rejects Money Politics Ahead of 35th NU Congress

The Central Java regional board of Nahdlatul Ulama (PWNU) has declared its opposition to money politics and external pressure ahead of the organisation's 35th Congress in Jombang, East Java. The board issued a six-point declaration calling for an honest, clean, open, democratic and civil congress, and urged the President to prevent state apparatus from interfering. The declaration was made during a Maulid commemoration and prayer gathering for departing delegates.

Manifest and Evacuation Data for KMP Mutiara Sentosa 2 Differ, Police Conduct Further Investigation

East Java Regional Police investigators have found discrepancies in the passenger manifest of the KMP Mutiara Sentosa 2 ferry that caught fire off the coast of Sumenep. The official manifest listed 232 people aboard, while Basarnas evacuated 238, prompting deeper scrutiny into responsibility for the incident that claimed five lives. Police are also examining indications of blame-shifting among parties involved in the initial response and legal process.

Gajah Mungkur Floating Solar Plant Construction Begins, Targeting 2027 Operation

Construction of the Gajah Mungkur Floating Solar Power Plant in Wonogiri, Central Java, has officially commenced as part of Indonesia's national 100 GWp solar programme. The 134 MWp facility, costing approximately Rp1.6 trillion, is expected to generate 218 GWh annually and meet 37% of Wonogiri's electricity needs when operational in late 2027.

Garut Agriculture Office develops potential of strawberry and garlic commodities

The Garut Regency Agriculture Office is working to develop strawberry and garlic as alternative farming commodities alongside the region's staple crops of rice and potatoes. Strawberry cultivation currently covers 112 hectares in Malangbong District, while garlic planting has begun on 8,000 square metres in Karangtengah with a target of 20.8 hectares. The main challenge identified is the availability of certified, high-quality seeds, prompting efforts to partner with industry for seedling supply.

Prabowo Inaugurates Construction of 100 GW Solar Power Project, Here is the List

President Prabowo Subianto has officially launched the construction of a 100 GWp solar power megaproject across Indonesia, with an initial phase covering 14 projects totalling 5,216 MWp. The programme, valued at Rp 1,140 trillion, is expected to create 5.5 million jobs and save Rp 73.9 trillion annually in energy subsidies. The President has set an ambitious target of completing the project within two years.

Bank BSN Holds Mass Contract Signing for 10,000 Financing Units to Boost Sharia Financial Literacy and Inclusion

PT Bank Syariah Nasional (Bank BSN) has conducted a simultaneous mass sharia financing contract signing for 10,000 units across Indonesia, centred in Bogor, West Java. The event forms part of the bank's first anniversary celebrations since becoming a full-fledged Islamic commercial bank. It aims to expand market penetration while improving sharia financial literacy and inclusion, particularly in facilitating affordable housing.

Prabowo Targets Forest and Land Fire Handling to Be Completed in Two Weeks: We Are a Strong Nation!

President Prabowo Subianto has stated that the government is deploying maximum resources to tackle forest and land fires across several regions of Indonesia, with a target to complete handling within two weeks. The effort involves dozens of helicopters, aircraft, hundreds of boreholes and water pumps, and thousands of personnel. He emphasised that the scale of the response demonstrates the state's strength and commitment to ensuring communities do not face disasters alone.

Minister Bahlil: Total capacity of 14 solar power projects reaches 5.3 GW

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has announced that 14 solar power plant projects being launched simultaneously have a combined capacity of 5.3 gigawatt peak. The projects include floating solar plants on major reservoirs in West Java and a solar-plus-storage cluster in Madura. The initiative forms part of Indonesia's broader 100 GWp solar programme aimed at accelerating renewable energy adoption.

Advantages and Disadvantages of the Wuling Air EV Worth Knowing

The Wuling Air EV has become a popular choice in Indonesia's growing electric vehicle market, offering compact dimensions, low running costs and exemption from Jakarta's odd-even traffic restrictions. However, prospective buyers should weigh these benefits against its limited luggage space, small wheels and reduced stability at high speeds. The article provides a comprehensive review of the model's strengths and weaknesses to help consumers make an informed decision.

Responding to Public Criticism, BPS DIY: Desil Changes Still Possible

The Yogyakarta Special Region Statistics Agency (BPS DIY) has clarified that changes to desil status in the National Socio-Economic Single Data (DTSEN) remain possible through field verification. The agency responded to public concerns after a becak driver previously classified in desil 1–2 was moved to desil 9. BPS DIY emphasised that verification aims to improve data accuracy for targeted social assistance, while the Social Affairs Office is considering schemes to avoid abruptly cutting aid for households whose desil rises but whose actual conditions have not improved.

Cassa Aircraft That Skidded at Hasanuddin Airport Successfully Evacuated

A Cassa aircraft belonging to the Indonesian Navy that skidded on the runway at Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport in Maros, South Sulawesi, has been successfully evacuated. The incident occurred a day after a Sukhoi fighter jet belonging to the Indonesian Air Force experienced a similar mishap at the same airport. Civil aviation operations have been confirmed to be running normally, with flights diverted to an alternative runway.

Bringing Skills from Taiwan, BRI Peduli Encourages Indonesian Migrant Workers to Become Entrepreneurs

BRI Peduli has launched a capacity-building programme for Indonesian migrant workers in Taiwan, offering practical workshops in culinary arts and beauty entrepreneurship. The initiative aims to equip participants with skills they can use to start businesses upon returning to Indonesia. BRI says the programme is part of a broader roadmap to help diaspora workers use their remittances productively and return home with stronger entrepreneurial capacity.

Used Furniture Warehouse in Denpasar Catches Fire, Resident Hears Explosion

A used furniture warehouse in West Denpasar was destroyed by fire on Tuesday afternoon after a resident reported hearing an explosion from inside the building. Firefighters extinguished the blaze within an hour, and no casualties were reported. Police estimate losses at Rp300 million and are continuing to investigate the cause.

Inspector General Sandi Affirms Joint Handling of Forest and Land Fires in South Sumatra: Prevention Continues to Be Maximised

South Sumatra Police, together with local government and related agencies, are intensifying efforts to control forest and land fires (Karhutla) through prevention, mitigation, extinguishing, and law enforcement. Police Chief Inspector General Sandi Nugroho highlighted strong collaboration among stakeholders and confirmed that 17 suspects have been named in connection with Karhutla cases. The joint approach includes prayer gatherings and ongoing field operations to prevent new fire outbreaks.

Israel Begins Open Recruitment in Indonesia

Israel has launched an open recruitment drive in Indonesia through the Israel-Asia Center, seeking participants for its Israel-Indonesia Future 2027 programme. The initiative is part of a broader push to normalise diplomatic relations with Indonesia, which Israel views as a key target alongside Saudi Arabia. The programme aims to build bridges in areas such as food, water, energy, health, finance, education and cross-cultural understanding.

Indonesian Air Force air operations accelerate forest and land fire suppression in South Kalimantan's Ring 1

The Indonesian Air Force (TNI AU) has deployed multiple helicopters to accelerate the suppression of forest and land fires in South Kalimantan, prioritising the Ring 1 area around Syamsudin Noor International Airport in Banjarbaru. The air operations, which include water bombing and aerial monitoring, are being coordinated with ground personnel conducting firefighting, containment, and hotspot surveillance. The combined effort involves the TNI, National Police, regional disaster management agency, government agencies, and local communities.

Why Many People Are Fed Up With and Hate American Giant Palantir

Palantir Technologies is enjoying explosive growth in the US, but faces mounting rejection in Europe over its ties to US government operations, military use, and immigration enforcement. The controversy highlights Europe's anxiety about technological dependence on America, even as few European firms can match Palantir's capabilities. Its contracts with the NHS and British police have drawn particular scrutiny from lawmakers and local officials.

Video: Not Just MotoGP Circuit, Mandalika Has Cultural and Culinary Tourism

ITDC's acting president director Ahmad Fajar says the development of the Mandalika tourism area in West Nusa Tenggara aims to create a 'living destination' rather than merely an event destination. The strategy involves promoting quality tourism through beach attractions, cultural performances and world-class cuisine so that economic activity continues throughout the year, not only during MotoGP events.

BNPB Verifies 77,912 Damaged Houses Following NTT Earthquake to Ensure Aid Reaches Right Targets

Indonesia's National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) is verifying data on 77,912 houses damaged by the recent earthquake across seven regencies in East Nusa Tenggara. The verification process aims to confirm damage levels and ownership details before transitioning from emergency response to rehabilitation and reconstruction. The agency is also providing psychosocial support services to affected communities in several locations.

President Prabowo praises Red and White Cabinet for working without holidays

President Prabowo Subianto has commended his Red and White Cabinet for its dedication, saying members work through public holidays as part of their service to the nation. Speaking during the launch of a 100 GWp solar power programme on the Maulid Nabi holiday, he warned that those unable to keep pace could step aside. He also highlighted achievements in food self-sufficiency and state-owned enterprise reform.

Softening words does not change the facts

An opinion piece examines how Indonesian speakers use euphemism and indirect language to avoid stating uncomfortable truths. It uses the example of the railway term 'tertemper' as a softer alternative to 'tertabrak' (hit) and reflects on the broader human tendency to choose pleasant lies over painful honesty.

Prabowo Targets 100 Gigawatt Solar Power Plants Within Two Years

President Prabowo Subianto has challenged his energy team to complete the construction of 100 gigawatts of solar power capacity within two years, accelerating from the original three-year target. Speaking at the launch of the 100 GWp solar programme in Jembrana, Bali, he cited the government's faster-than-expected achievement in food self-sufficiency as evidence that ambitious targets can be met ahead of schedule.

Women's Voices: 27 August Must Not Become a Destructive Movement for the Nation

Imayati Kalean, founder of Ruang Suara Perempuan Indonesia, has urged that criticism of the government be channelled constructively rather than becoming destructive, particularly around the 27 August 2026 mobilisation. Speaking at the 'Indonesia Layak Dirayakan' event in Jakarta, she emphasised that Indonesia's 81 years of independence deserve celebration alongside continued critique. She also highlighted the need for women to play a greater role in national development and to strengthen digital literacy in the face of disinformation.

Forest and Land Fire Patrol in Gunung Tabur, Berau Finds Hotspots in Company Areas

A joint forest and land fire patrol in Berau Regency, East Kalimantan, discovered two medium-category hotspots within the concession areas of PT Fuji and PT Berau Jaya Energy. The patrol, involving police, military, and forestry personnel, immediately extinguished the fires and emphasised the importance of cross-agency coordination and community participation in preventing land and forest fires.

KRI Gajah Mada Scheduled for First Appearance at 81st TNI Anniversary

The aircraft carrier Giuseppe Garibaldi, soon to be renamed KRI Gajah Mada, is scheduled to make its debut at the 81st anniversary of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) in October 2026. The vessel will participate in the sailing pass parade and serve as a VVIP ship for the President and senior officials. The ship is currently en route from Italy and is expected to arrive in Indonesia between 15 and 20 September 2026.

BNPB: NTT earthquake death toll rises to 103

The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has reported that the death toll from the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) has risen to 103, with three additional fatalities recorded. The number of injured has also increased to 1,666 people. The 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck Nagekeo Regency on 15 August 2026.

Youth from 25 Countries Exchange Ideas at 22nd AYIMUN

Around 750 young people from 25 countries gathered in Kuala Lumpur for the 22nd Asia Youth International Model United Nations to simulate UN sessions and sharpen diplomatic skills. Organisers and officials, including a representative from the Indonesian Embassy in Kuala Lumpur, emphasised the forum's role in building cross-cultural understanding and leadership. The event is part of a wider series, with follow-up conferences planned in Bali and Geneva later in 2026.

Central Java Prepares Weather Modification to Tackle Drought in 14 Regions

The Central Java provincial government is preparing to conduct weather modification operations to mitigate the impact of an ongoing drought expected to last until September. The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has issued a warning status for 14 regencies and a standby status for 18 others due to low rainfall. Over 23.5 million litres of clean water have been distributed to affected areas, while the deputy governor has called for long-term improvements in water absorption infrastructure.

Bahlil Says 100 GWp Solar Power Programme Saves State Budget Rp73 Trillion Per Year

The Indonesian government has officially launched its 100 GWp solar power programme with a groundbreaking in Gilimanuk, Bali, alongside three other projects across the country. Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia stated the programme is a strategic step towards national energy independence and security. It is projected to save the state budget by more than Rp73 trillion annually and create 5.52 million cumulative jobs.

DPR, E Kalimantan to maximize Mahakam block oil, gas potential

Indonesia's House of Representatives and East Kalimantan officials are working to maximise output from the Mahakam oil and gas block, focusing on exploration and technical investment to sustain productivity. Discussions centred on the 10 percent participating interest managed by regional enterprise PT Migas Mandiri Pratama and the smooth disbursement of oil revenue-sharing funds. The collaboration aims to strengthen regional economic growth and maintain a conducive investment climate for the upstream energy sector.

Launching 100 GWp Solar Power Programme, Prabowo: We Will Truly Stand on Our Own Feet

President Prabowo Subianto has accelerated the target for Indonesia's 100 gigawatt peak solar power programme from three years to two years, promising state honours for the energy team if they succeed. The programme is positioned as a cornerstone of the government's push for national energy self-sufficiency. Prabowo cited the faster-than-expected achievement of food self-sufficiency as justification for raising expectations on the energy sector.

Pertamina Distributes Aid to Community-Run Posts to Meet Needs of NTT Earthquake Victims

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga is distributing aid to 28 community-run posts in Reok District, Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, following a recent earthquake. The assistance includes staple foods and infant necessities, aiming to ensure all affected residents receive support. Local residents have expressed gratitude for the company's swift and targeted relief efforts.

Musical Instrument Warehouse in Cakranegara Destroyed by Fire, Losses Estimated at Rp 800 Million

A fire broke out at a musical instrument and sound system warehouse on Jalan Hasanudin, Pasar Sindu, Cakranegara, Mataram, causing extensive damage to the building's interior. The blaze, which burned for approximately 1.5 hours, resulted in estimated losses of Rp 800 million. No casualties were reported, according to the Mataram Fire Department.

283 Joint Personnel Intensify Cooling Operations for Kampar Forest and Land Fires, Hotspots Reduced to 2

A joint task force of 283 personnel is intensifying efforts to extinguish and cool peatland affected by forest and land fires in Kampar Regency, Riau. The operation focuses on ensuring underground embers are fully extinguished to prevent reignition, with two hotspots remaining in the same location. Authorities are also conducting investigations and enforcing the law while managing the fire.

Goodbye Red Dates! No More National Holidays Until Christmas

Indonesia has entered a four-month period without any national holidays or collective leave days following the Maulid Nabi Muhammad SAW holiday on 25 August 2026. The next scheduled break will be the Christmas collective leave and national holiday on 24-25 December 2026, which will provide a four-day weekend for many workers. The schedule is based on the Joint Ministerial Decree (SKB) of three ministers for 2026.

KRI Gajah Mada to debut at 81st TNI anniversary as VVIP ship

The aircraft carrier Giuseppe Garibaldi, to be renamed KRI Gajah Mada, is scheduled to make its first appearance at the 81st anniversary of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) in October 2026 as part of the sailing pass parade. The vessel will also serve as a VVIP ship for the President, ministers, and TNI officials during the naval parade. The ship is currently en route from Italy and is expected to arrive in Indonesia in mid-September 2026.

Prabowo Praises Danantara Performance, State-Owned Enterprises Begin to Turn a Profit

President Prabowo Subianto has lauded the performance of Danantara, crediting the investment management body with significantly boosting state-owned enterprise (BUMN) revenues. Several state companies that had been loss-making for decades are now recording profits, with income rising by hundreds of percent in under two years. Prabowo also called for tighter oversight of state finances and suggested Danantara's leadership deserves official state honours.

Sukhoi and Cassa Aircraft Skid in Succession at Hasanuddin Airport

Two aircraft have suffered runway incidents at Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport in Maros, South Sulawesi, on consecutive days. A TNI Air Force Sukhoi fighter jet overran the runway on Monday, followed by a Cassa aircraft skidding on the north-south runway on Tuesday. Airport authorities confirmed both incidents and stated that flight operations continued normally using alternative runways.

To Prevent Misunderstanding, Legislator Stresses Importance of Clarification on Account Blocking in Pati Demo

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has urged the public to await official clarification regarding the blocking of Bank Mandiri accounts linked to a demonstration in Pati. Firnando Hadityo Ganinduto emphasised that the state-owned bank must follow its regulations and procedures, and that any legal process should be respected until a court ruling is final.

BMKG Declares Drought Warning Status for Ciayumajakuning Until 31 August 2026

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has issued a meteorological drought warning for the Ciayumajakuning region, effective from 21 to 31 August 2026. The warning follows more than 50 consecutive days without rain recorded at the Kertajati and Jatiwangi meteorological stations. Residents, farmers, livestock breeders and industrial operators are urged to conserve water and remain vigilant against forest and land fires.

East Kalimantan exports 231 tonnes of fishery products worth Rp38.6 billion

East Kalimantan Province recorded fishery exports of 231.6 tonnes worth Rp38.6 billion over the past month, reflecting improved productivity among local fishermen and aquaculture businesses. Frozen tiger prawns dominated shipments, contributing more than Rp24.6 billion and reaching markets in Japan, Taiwan, Malaysia, and the United States. The provincial government aims to strengthen the blue economy and create more jobs for coastal communities.

Arjuno-Welirang Forest Fire Reignites After Being Declared Extinguished

Forest and land fires in the Arjuno-Welirang area of Raden Soerjo Grand Forest Park in East Java have reignited after being declared extinguished on 21 August. Two active fire points remain below the summit, prompting intensified aerial water bombing operations. The blaze has so far affected 146.85 hectares, with hiking routes closed indefinitely.

Prabowo Attends Groundbreaking of 100 GWp Solar Power Plant Project in Gilimanuk

President Prabowo Subianto has officiated the groundbreaking of a 100 gigawatt peak solar power plant project in Gilimanuk, Bali. The initial phase targets 1,000 megawatt peak with battery storage, aiming to replace imported fuel with domestic renewable energy. The project is expected to save up to Rp 73.9 trillion annually in electricity costs once completed by 2029.

Achmad Bakrie Award XXII 2026 Returns, 4 Inspirational Figures Receive Prestigious Award

The Achmad Bakrie Award XXII 2026 has been held, recognising four Indonesian figures for their contributions in science and technology, health, social thought, and arts and culture. The award, themed 'Real Action for Indonesia', forms part of Bakrie Group's 84th anniversary celebrations. Recipients include pioneers in radar technology, medical bioceramics, Islamic moderation thought, and the arts.

BMKG Warns Very Strong El Niño in NTT Could Persist Until Early 2027

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has warned that a very strong El Niño phenomenon is affecting East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) and could persist until early 2027. The agency recorded an ENSO index of +2.99 in the Nino3.4 region, with a positive Indian Ocean Dipole also likely to develop until October 2026. Residents have been urged to conserve water and avoid open burning due to heightened drought and forest fire risks.

Rejecting Provocative Actions, PP SEMMI Urges Public to Prioritise Peaceful Democracy

The Central Board of the Indonesian Muslim Students Union (PP SEMMI) has called on all elements of society to avoid provocative actions that could divide national unity. Chairman Zulhadi Ariza outlined the organisation's stance, urging constitutional and dignified democratic expression while condemning anarchism. The group specifically rejected a planned demonstration by the Pati United Community Alliance (AMPB) at the DPR building on 27 August, citing concerns over potential provocation.

ASITA NTT urges government to ensure destination safety after earthquake

The East Nusa Tenggara chapter of the Association of the Indonesian Tours and Travel Agencies (ASITA NTT) has called on the government to verify the safety of tourist destinations before issuing official statements that would allow businesses to resume promoting visits to Flores following the earthquake. The association stressed that valid, verified information is essential to reassure travellers, noting that seven attractions suffered minor damage and two were severely damaged, while seven have reopened. It also highlighted the reopening of six airports in Flores as a positive indicator of recovering tourism accessibility.

Civil Registry Opens Free Services After Earthquake Destroys Residents' Documents

The Directorate General of Population and Civil Registration (Dukcapil) has deployed a team to Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, to restore administrative services and replace identity documents lost or damaged in the magnitude 7.7 earthquake. The initiative, ordered by Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian, aims to ensure affected residents can access social assistance and recovery programmes without charge. Local officials welcomed the rapid response, noting that valid documents are essential for aid distribution and post-disaster rehabilitation.

BKN Praises South Sulawesi Governor for Making ASN Talent Management a National Reference

The National Civil Service Agency (BKN) has praised South Sulawesi Governor Andi Sudirman Sulaiman for accelerating the implementation of talent management among civil servants (ASN). BKN head Zudan Arif Fakrulloh said South Sulawesi has become a national benchmark, being the only region outside Java with 100 percent implementation across local governments. The governor emphasised that talent management is not merely an administrative requirement but a foundation for building a professional and competent bureaucracy.

From extinguishing fires to preventing them from spreading

President Prabowo Subianto has taken direct command of forest and land fire handling in Sumatra and Kalimantan amid heightened El Nino-driven risks. His approach shifts the emphasis from deploying large forces after fires have spread to ensuring rapid response within one to two hours of hotspot detection. The strategy integrates satellite monitoring, community reports, field verification, and law enforcement into a single chain of early response.

KAI to develop Malang Station for smoother passenger movement

State railway operator PT KAI plans to develop the Malang Station area in East Java by the end of 2026 to improve passenger mobility. The project will include parking facilities, pedestrian access, and spaces for micro, small, and medium enterprises. The move responds to rising passenger volumes, which average 7,600 per day during national holidays.

Gathering Coal and CPO Bosses, Here Is Rosan's Full Explanation on DSI

Danantara CEO Rosan Roeslani has assured exporters of coal, crude palm oil, and ferro alloy that the newly operational PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia (DSI) will not disrupt existing commercial contracts. DSI, which began monitoring export transactions on 1 June 2026, is intended to enhance transparency, data integrity, and governance for commodities worth around US$70 billion in annual exports. Rosan stressed that DSI will not replace regulators or add bureaucratic layers, but will serve as a single verification point for export data and transactions.

350 Joint Personnel Deployed to Tackle Forest and Land Fires in Nabire

Around 350 personnel from the military, police and local government have been deployed in rotation to combat forest and land fires in Nabire, Central Papua. The joint task force is operating across two main sectors, Nabire Barat and Kimi, with support from fire engines, ambulances and patrol units. Authorities say the cross-sector approach is intended to speed up response and will be refined to improve effectiveness.

Dukcapil Deploys 6 Teams to Restore Residents' Documents in 7 NTT Regencies

The Ministry of Home Affairs' civil registry directorate has deployed six mobile service teams to seven regencies in Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, following a magnitude 7.7 earthquake. The teams are tasked with replacing lost or damaged identity documents and restoring administrative services in affected areas. The operation, ordered by Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian, includes providing equipment and supplies to local governments to ensure continuity of services.

Twenty Days After Sutrimo's Death and the Missing Trail

Forensic experts say identifying the cause of death of Sutrimo, the household manager of former Jampidsus Febrie Adriansyah, has been difficult because his body was exhumed 20 days after burial and was in an advanced state of decomposition. Examinations found no signs of violence, but experts are pursuing toxicology and histopathology tests, including soil samples, to detect possible poisoning. The family is also still waiting for the return of Sutrimo's personal belongings, which were not handed over when his body was taken to his hometown.

South Sumatra Forest Fires: Police Chief Assures Mitigation and Firefighting Efforts Continue to Be Maximised

South Sumatra Police Chief Inspector General Sandi Nugroho has reaffirmed that forest and land fire mitigation and suppression efforts are being intensified in collaboration with local government, the military, and the public. Seventeen people have been named as suspects in connection with forest and land fire cases. The police are also carrying out preventive measures and rapid response operations to prevent new fire outbreaks.

TNI Alpa Team Deployed to Extinguish Hard-to-Reach Hotspots in Way Kambas National Park

The Indonesian Army has deployed its specialist Alpa Team to tackle forest and land fires in Way Kambas National Park, Lampung, following a direct order from President Prabowo Subianto. The 40-strong unit was parachuted into areas inaccessible by land after thermal drone surveillance identified residual hotspots. Around 123 hectares have been affected so far, with additional hotspots detected in Rantau Jaya.

Gerindra Responds to Budi Arie on Accelerating 2029 Election

Gerindra Party spokesperson Sugiat Santoso has dismissed talk of bringing forward the 2029 general election, stating the party is focused on supporting President Prabowo Subianto's programmes. His remarks respond to Projo chairman Budi Arie Setiadi, whose comments on the possibility of an earlier election were later clarified by Projo as merely outlining various scenarios. The discussion has drawn attention amid broader political manoeuvring ahead of the next electoral cycle.

Forest and Land Fire Hits TNBTS Area in Bukit Sentong, Lumajang

A forest and land fire has broken out in the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park (TNBTS) area at Bukit Sentong, Lumajang Regency, East Java. The cause of the fire remains unknown, and joint teams are working manually to contain the blaze due to the challenging hilly terrain. No casualties have been reported, but the extent of the damage is still being assessed.

East Java BPBD Intensifies Water Bombing as Hotspots Persist on Mount Arjuno

The East Java Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) is accelerating efforts to extinguish forest and land fires on Mount Arjuno-Welirang in Pasuruan Regency, with aerial water bombing now underway after ground patrols found remaining hotspots. Two fire points remain active below the summit and are difficult to reach by land, prompting the deployment of a helicopter capable of carrying 1,000 litres of water. The affected area has reached 146.85 hectares, with authorities hoping the aerial operations will fully extinguish the blaze.

Pertamina continues distributing aid to earthquake-affected residents in NTT

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga is actively distributing relief supplies to earthquake victims in Reok District, Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara. The company has expanded its distribution beyond main command posts to 28 community-run shelters to ensure aid reaches all affected residents. Assistance includes staple foods and specific items for infants, with the company pledging continued support throughout the recovery period.

National Rice Surplus Does Not Guarantee Lower Rice Prices

Indonesia's projected rice surplus of 3.67 million tonnes in 2026 has not translated into affordable prices across all regions, with remote and island areas still facing sharp price spikes. Observers attribute the disparity to distribution bottlenecks, high logistics costs, and limited food infrastructure. The government is urged to strengthen distribution systems alongside maintaining its rice reserves.

Berau Regency Government Launches Weather Modification Operation to Prevent Forest Fires from Spreading

The Berau Regency administration in East Kalimantan has commenced a weather modification operation to induce artificial rain as a strategic measure to prevent and extinguish forest and land fires. The operation, supported by the National Disaster Management Agency, will run for five days using a Cessna 208 Caravan aircraft to seed clouds with salt. As of 24 August 2026, 169 fire incidents have been recorded in Berau, with approximately 386 hectares of forest and plantation land burned.

Prabowo Says No Public Holidays in His Cabinet: Those Who Can't Keep Up Should Step Aside

President Prabowo Subianto inaugurated the groundbreaking of a 100 GWp solar power plant project in Jembrana, Bali, on the Prophet Muhammad's birthday, emphasising that his cabinet works almost without recognising public holidays. He warned ministers and officials that those unwilling to accept the risks of public service should step aside, as many others are ready to replace them. The event underscored the government's commitment to advancing national energy infrastructure while observing the religious occasion through continued work.

Modern, a Moving Spirit

An opinion piece by a lecturer at Universitas Darussalam Gontor explores the philosophical meaning of 'Modern' in the name Pondok Modern Darussalam Gontor. The author argues that modernity in this Islamic educational institution is not about superficial change but a dynamic spirit of continuous learning, self-improvement, and service rooted in Islamic values.

Involving Musicians, Dompet Dhuafa Dedicates Sound of Humanity to NTT

Dompet Dhuafa has launched a charity concert series called 'Sound of Humanity' to raise funds for disaster recovery in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT). The initiative, which began in Depok, West Java, aims to collect up to Rp 30 billion to support both emergency response and long-term recovery efforts. The concerts involve several Indonesian musicians and are intended to expand to other cities to broaden public participation.

Herman Deru Urges South Sumatra Residents to Unite in Facing Dry Season and Forest Fires

South Sumatra Governor Herman Deru has called on residents to strengthen mutual cooperation and maintain social harmony amid an El Niño-driven dry season and rising forest and land fire risks. Speaking after an Istisqa prayer in Palembang, he reported around 1,950 hectares of land affected by fires in 2026 and urged continued collaboration among government, security forces, and communities. He also appealed for solidarity with disaster-hit communities in East Nusa Tenggara.

Fire in Duren Sawit, East Jakarta, Destroys 37 Buildings, 125 Residents Displaced

A fire in Duren Sawit, East Jakarta, destroyed approximately 37 buildings and displaced 125 residents, though no injuries or fatalities were reported. Local authorities are preparing a mosque as a temporary shelter and coordinating aid from the disaster mitigation agency and social services. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Prabowo targets Indonesia to stop importing oil and LPG within three years

President Prabowo Subianto has set a target for Indonesia to cease all imports of oil and LPG within three years to strengthen national energy independence. The plan is supported by a 100 gigawatt peak solar power programme launched in Jembrana, Bali, alongside geothermal, gas field development and increased domestic oil lifting. Prabowo urged the Red and White Cabinet to work hard towards tangible achievements for national sovereignty and public welfare.

West Kalimantan Forest Fires: Joint Team Intensifies Extinguishing Efforts in South Singkawang

A joint team of police, military, disaster agency personnel, volunteers and residents is intensifying efforts to extinguish and cool down forest and land fires in Singkawang, West Kalimantan, after 11 hotspots were detected. The largest concentration of hotspots is in Pangmilang sub-district, with dry conditions and strong winds posing significant challenges. Authorities have urged the public to refrain from slash-and-burn land clearing and will increase patrols and awareness campaigns in fire-prone areas.

Prabowo: I Am Confident the 100 GW Solar Power Project Can Be Built in Under 3 Years!

President Prabowo Subianto has launched a 100 GWp solar power programme and challenged his energy team to complete it in under three years, citing the success of the food self-sufficiency team. The project, which requires US$73 billion in investment, is expected to reduce energy subsidy spending and create millions of jobs.

Minimal Rainfall: BMKG Reveals Factors Affecting Batam's Weather

The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has attributed the low rainfall in Batam, Riau Islands, to low upper-level humidity and strong winds that limit the formation of rain clouds. The agency forecasts predominantly partly cloudy to cloudy conditions with temperatures between 25 and 33 degrees Celsius, while warning that prolonged dry periods could increase the risk of land fires. Residents are advised to monitor official weather updates, especially those active outdoors or in coastal waters.

BNPB Records 7,029 Aftershocks in NTT, 141 in the Last 24 Hours

Indonesia's National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has recorded 7,029 aftershocks in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) since the magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck on 15 August 2026. Aftershocks are expected to continue for three to four weeks following the main quake. The death toll has risen to 103, with the highest fatalities reported in Manggarai and East Manggarai regencies.

Malaysia records unhealthy air quality in around 30 areas as haze spreads

Malaysia is experiencing widespread unhealthy air quality due to transboundary haze from forest fires in Indonesia, with nearly 30 areas recording elevated pollutant levels. The government has activated national action plans and stepped up enforcement against open burning, while health authorities report a surge in respiratory cases. The situation underscores the recurring regional environmental challenge posed by Indonesian land and forest fires.

Prabowo Affirms Commitment to Eradicate Corruption to Its Roots

President Prabowo Subianto has reiterated his administration's commitment to eradicating corruption at all levels, stating that all national assets must be managed honestly and patriotically for the people's benefit. Speaking at the launch of a 100 GWp solar power plant in Bali, he linked anti-corruption efforts to the government's capacity to fund disaster response and national development. The president acknowledged ongoing scepticism but insisted the government is serious about closing financial leaks.

Land Fire in Sekumpul Buleleng, Several Hotspots Inaccessible

A land fire has broken out in Banjar Dinas Lebah, Sekumpul Village, Sawan District, Buleleng, Bali, burning dry leaves and wood across multiple locations. Emergency responders from the Buleleng Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) have managed to extinguish some hotspots but remain unable to reach others due to difficult terrain. Personnel are continuing to monitor the situation from a distance.

Commemorating Prophet Muhammad's Birthday, Madiun City Government Revives Grebeg Maulud

The Madiun City Government has revived the Grebeg Maulud tradition after a seven-year hiatus to commemorate the Prophet Muhammad's birthday. The event, recognised as intangible cultural heritage, aims to preserve Islamic culture while boosting the local economy and community welfare. Residents enthusiastically participated in the procession and scrambled for the contents of the ceremonial gunungan offerings.

Prabowo promises award if 100 GWp solar power plants completed in two years

President Prabowo Subianto has pledged to confer a state honour on his energy team if they complete the 100 gigawatt peak (GWp) solar power plant programme within two years, ahead of the original three-year target. Speaking at the programme launch in Jembrana, Bali, he noted that the current national electricity capacity stands at 88 GW from coal, oil, gas and geothermal sources. The President also cited the food self-sufficiency programme, which was achieved in one year instead of four, as evidence that accelerated delivery is possible.

Prabowo launches 100 GWp solar power programme, challenges energy team to finish in two years

President Prabowo Subianto has officially launched a 100 gigawatt peak solar power programme, beginning with 14 projects totalling 5.3 GWp across six provinces. The initiative is part of the government's push for national energy self-sufficiency and reduced reliance on imported fossil fuels. Prabowo challenged his energy team to complete the full programme within two years, ahead of the three-year target.

Citing Successful Disaster Management, Prabowo: Our Nation Is Strong

President Prabowo Subianto has declared that disaster management efforts across several regions are beginning to succeed, attributing the progress to a large-scale government mobilisation of helicopters, aircraft, and thousands of personnel. Speaking at a solar power plant launch in Bali, he highlighted rapid responses in Aceh and East Nusa Tenggara as evidence of national strength. He also urged continued vigilance ahead of a potentially severe El Niño phenomenon this year.

President: Forest and land fire handling underway, resolved in several areas

President Prabowo Subianto has stated that Indonesia's mitigation efforts against the El Nino phenomenon, including the heightened risk of forest and land fires, are progressing well. He expressed optimism that the handling of fires in several locations could be completed within two weeks. The government has deployed extensive resources, including dozens of helicopters and aircraft for water bombing, as well as thousands of personnel.

Will the US Economic Embargo on Iran Succeed? Here's What Analysts Say

The United States has launched a new phase of economic pressure on Iran, expanding secondary sanctions to target any country, bank, or company that facilitates trade or financing for Tehran. The 'Economic Exclusion Operation' aims to make the cost of dealing with Iran outweigh any economic benefit. Analysts are weighing in on whether this strategy will achieve its goal of severing Iran's economic lifelines.

Bulog Deputy CEO ensures food stock security in Tanjungpinang

Perum Bulog Deputy CEO Marga Taufiq visited Tanjungpinang to verify operational readiness, stock availability, and food distribution. The visit included inspections of warehouses with a 7,000-tonne rice capacity and confirmation of substantial rice and cooking oil reserves. He stressed that stock availability must be supported by good quality management and distribution.

SAR team searches for three missing tourists at Karangpapak Beach, Garut

A joint search and rescue operation is under way for three tourists who went missing after being swept out to sea while swimming at Karangpapak Beach in Garut, West Java. The victims, aged 18 to 27, were pulled by strong currents on Tuesday morning, with two of them disappearing while attempting to rescue the first. Authorities have urged visitors to heed weather warnings and avoid swimming in areas with dangerous currents.

Pakistan Claims Significant Progress in Mediating US-Iran Conflict

Pakistan has reported significant progress in its mediation efforts between the United States and Iran following a strategic visit by Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir to Tehran. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi described talks with President Masoud Pezeshkian as positive and productive, with both sides discussing regional tensions and steps to restore a memorandum of understanding. Pakistan hopes the momentum will pave the way for lasting peace in the Middle East.

Syrian President Welcomes US Removal of State Sponsor of Terrorism Status

Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa has welcomed the United States' decision to remove Syria from its list of state sponsors of terrorism, describing it as the end of a painful chapter. The move, accompanied by sanctions relief, is seen as a further step in warming relations between Washington and Damascus following the fall of Bashar al-Assad. Syrian officials hailed the decision as a historic milestone that would unlock private investment and support economic recovery.

Medvedev: Russia needs guarantees all NATO hostilities are halted

Dmitry Medvedev, Deputy Chairman of Russia's Security Council, has described NATO expansion as an existential threat to Moscow. He said Russia requires guarantees that it will not be attacked and that all hostile actions against the country will cease.

Karangasem Youth Raise Funds for NTB and NTT

Dozens of young people and students in Karangasem, Bali, held a street collection for disaster-affected communities in NTB and NTT, raising Rp 21.8 million in about two hours. The initiative was led by the Karangasem branch of the Indonesian Hindu Dharma Student Association (KMHDI) and involved several youth and student organisations. The Regent of Karangasem also made a donation and expressed support for the humanitarian action.

NU Rais Syuriah: Prophet Muhammad's Birthday should serve as a means of moral improvement

Rais Syuriah of the Nahdlatul Ulama Executive Board, Prof KH Zainal Abidin, has urged Muslims to use the commemoration of the Prophet Muhammad's birthday as a means of strengthening moral character. He emphasised that the celebration should not be merely ceremonial but a moment for self-criticism and reflection on the practice of prophetic values. He also called on preachers and scholars to avoid coercive approaches in religious outreach and to uphold tolerance and harmony in Indonesia's diverse society.

Blockchain and AI-Based Entertainment Ecosystem Continues to Be Developed

Show Token, a blockchain and AI-based entertainment company, showcased its integrated ecosystem at Coinfest Asia 2026 in Bali. The company aims to expand its digital ecosystem and strengthen collaboration in the Southeast Asian entertainment industry. Its platform connects viewers directly with film production and distribution through a watch-and-earn model.

Pakistan reports significant progress in US-Iran mediation efforts

Pakistan has reported 'significant progress' following a visit by its army chief to Tehran aimed at reviving direct talks between the United States and Iran. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi described the meeting with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian as positive and productive, expressing hope that the momentum could lead to lasting peace in the region. The discussions covered the Iran-US conflict, Middle East tensions, and steps to restore the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding as a basis for a comprehensive settlement.

Krakatau Steel Encourages Youth to Understand Strategic Role of Logistics for the Economy

PT Krakatau Steel is urging young people to recognise the strategic importance of logistics in the national supply chain and economy. The state-owned steelmaker highlighted logistics' role in creating added value and boosting industrial competitiveness during a campus event at Sultan Ageng Tirtayasa University. The company also outlined initiatives including support for the Zero ODOL 2027 programme and a Ro-Ro vessel service expected to improve distribution efficiency by 10-12 percent.

Prabowo Challenges Bahlil, Rosan and PLN Chief to Complete 100 GW Solar Power Plants in 3 Years

President Prabowo Subianto has publicly challenged his ministers and state-owned enterprise leaders to deliver 100 gigawatts of solar power capacity within three years. During the launch of the 100 GWp solar programme, he sought direct commitments from key officials including the Energy Minister, the Head of Danantara, and the CEOs of PLN and Pertamina. Prabowo stressed that the government must move beyond setting targets and demonstrate tangible results by 2029.

Foreign Investors Flock Back to Indonesia: Government Bonds Hunted, Rupiah Strengthens

Foreign investors have returned to Indonesia's government bond market in force, with daily net purchases reaching a 2026 high of Rp11.68 trillion on 20 August. The surge in inflows, supported by Bank Indonesia's monetary incentives and improved fiscal prospects, has helped the rupiah strengthen by 1.58% during August after five consecutive months of decline.

Video: AI Optimisation Helps Hospitals in Operations and Cancer Treatment

Indonesia's Ministry of Health is strengthening domestic pharmaceutical and medical device independence through increased investment and technology transfer. The government is also using local content requirements to encourage high-tech mastery, including artificial intelligence applications in healthcare.

Thousands join Maulid Nabi procession in Denpasar's Kampung Islam Kepaon

Around 2,000 residents took part in the Ta'aruf Li Maulidur Rasul procession in Kampung Islam Kepaon, Denpasar, Bali, to mark the Prophet Muhammad's birthday. The annual event featured traditional ornaments and served as a space for fostering togetherness amid Bali's diverse society.

NTT Earthquake Death Toll Rises by 3, BNPB: Total 103 People

Indonesia's National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has reported three additional fatalities from the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara, bringing the total death toll to 103 as of the eleventh day of post-disaster response. The regencies of Manggarai and East Manggarai account for the highest number of deaths, while the number of injured has risen to 1,666 and displaced persons now total 185,113.

Prabowo stresses corruption must be eradicated to its roots

President Prabowo Subianto has reaffirmed his commitment to eradicating corruption to its roots, stating that all national assets and wealth must be managed for the people's benefit. Speaking at the launch of a 100 GWp solar power plant in Jembrana, Bali, he linked anti-corruption efforts to the government's ability to fund disaster response and other public services. Prabowo acknowledged doubts about his government's seriousness but insisted efforts to stop financial leakages would be intensified.

Duren Sawit Fire Victims Recount Hearing Explosion, Hope for Government Aid

Residents of Duren Sawit, East Jakarta, have described hearing an explosion as a fire destroyed rented houses and market stalls on Tuesday. No casualties were reported, with firefighters deploying 18 units and 90 personnel to tackle the blaze. Victims are now seeking government assistance after losing their belongings.

Forestry Minister pledges additional hydrant wells to prevent recurring forest and land fires

Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni has committed to increasing the number of hydrant wells in peatland areas to anticipate recurring forest and land fires. The minister highlighted the strategic role of existing wells built under the Peatland and Mangrove Restoration Agency programme in providing water supplies for firefighting. Local officials reported that 135 hotspots were recorded in East Tanjung Jabung between January and August, with 108 hectares of peatland burned.

East Java Education Office prepares schools as transit points for 35th NU Congress participants

The East Java Education Office is preparing state senior and vocational high schools to serve as transit points for participants of the 35th Nahdlatul Ulama Congress in Jombang from 27–31 August 2026. Facilities including classrooms, mosques, bathrooms and toilets will be made available for rest, prayer and washing, with some schools switching to online learning during the event. The initiative is also intended to provide students with social learning about togetherness, mutual cooperation and tolerance.

Transmigration Ministry directs transmigration areas to become new economic centres

The Ministry of Transmigration is shifting its approach by prioritising economic development before population movement, aiming to turn transmigration areas into new centres of economic growth. Minister M. Iftitah Sulaiman Suryanagara stressed the need to build complete economic ecosystems, from research to global marketing, rather than simply relocating people and hoping opportunities follow. He cited China's durian market, worth around Rp137 trillion annually, as an example of an opportunity Indonesia should develop into a full domestic industry rather than merely exporting raw commodities.

Prabowo: This Year One of the Strongest El Nino Events

President Prabowo Subianto has stated that the current El Nino phenomenon is among the strongest ever predicted, affecting many countries worldwide. Speaking at the groundbreaking of a 100 GWp solar power plant programme in Bali, he expressed confidence that forest and land fire problems would be fully resolved within one to two weeks. He praised the coordinated efforts of government agencies, the military, police and disaster response teams.

Tackling Jambi Forest Fires, Forestry Minister Raja Juli Prepares Weather Modification Operation for Late August

The Indonesian government is stepping up efforts to control forest and land fires in Jambi, with a weather modification operation scheduled for 27–30 August 2026. Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni noted that Jambi still ranks sixth nationally in hotspot count, and the province's deep peatlands remain highly vulnerable during the prolonged dry season. The operation aims to induce rainfall to dampen fire-prone areas and reduce the number of hotspots.

PP SEMMI urges all parties to build peaceful and courteous democracy

The Central Board of the Indonesian Muslim Students Union (PP SEMMI) has called on all parties to uphold healthy democracy through polite and peaceful dialogue. Chairman Zulhadi Ariza emphasised that freedom of expression must be exercised within legal boundaries and with respect for public order and national symbols. He also expressed concern that a planned demonstration by the Pati United Community Alliance could divide national unity and urged solidarity with disaster-affected regions.

Observer: Papua Cannot Be Understood Solely Through Today's Political Issues

At an event commemorating Indonesia's 81st independence anniversary, security analyst Stepi Anriani argued that Papua must be viewed through its full historical context rather than only current political tensions. She also emphasised that women's gentleness can be a political strength and that education is key to women's independence and bargaining power.

Bahlil's Joke in Bali: President is Gerindra Chairman, Solar Power Plant Groundbreaking in 'Red Cage'

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia used humour to highlight cross-party collaboration during the groundbreaking of a 100 GWp solar power plant in Jembrana, Bali. He noted that despite the President being Gerindra's chairman and himself leading Golkar, the green energy programme is being executed without regard to political colours. The project is part of a national priority programme aimed at strengthening energy independence and reducing fossil fuel dependence.

Tower Demolition Ruling Could Degrade Telecommunications Service Quality in Badung

A Bali High Court ruling ordering the demolition of telecommunications towers in Badung Regency not owned by PT Bali Towerindo Sentra Tbk could reduce internet speeds and create blank spots. ICT Institute executive director Heru Sutadi warns that removing critical sites without replacements would increase traffic load on remaining towers and harm service quality, especially in densely populated areas. He urges a transition period and replacement infrastructure before any demolition proceeds.

Police Patrol Car Set Ablaze in Surabaya, One Man Arrested

A decommissioned police patrol car belonging to Tambaksari Police Station in Surabaya was set on fire in the early hours of Thursday, 20 August. Police subsequently arrested a 52-year-old man, identified as MH, in connection with the incident. The motive remains under investigation, and no casualties were reported.

Pertamina Peduli Distributes Aid to Community-Run Posts, Ensuring Needs of NTT Disaster Victims Are Met

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga has expanded its earthquake relief efforts in Reok District, Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, by delivering aid directly to 28 community-run posts. The assistance includes staple foods and infant necessities, aiming to ensure equitable distribution to all affected residents. Local residents have expressed gratitude for the company's support during the post-disaster recovery period.

Prabowo Targets Indonesia's Forest and Land Fires Resolved Within 1-2 Weeks

President Prabowo Subianto has expressed hope that forest and land fires (karhutla) across several regions of Indonesia will be fully resolved within one to two weeks. Speaking at the launch of a 100 GWp solar power plant programme in Bali, he noted that mitigation efforts are already underway in several locations. The president also urged continued vigilance against the El Niño phenomenon, which is forecast to be among the strongest on record.

Mataram Environment Agency Proposes Rp 7 Billion Additional Fuel Budget

The Mataram Environment Agency has proposed an additional Rp 7 billion in fuel budget to cover the operational costs of waste transport vehicles. The proposal, submitted through the revised regional budget, is based on the latest Dexlite price adjustment of around Rp 24,000 per litre. The additional funds are projected to cover fuel needs from September to December, bringing the total annual fuel allocation to Rp 27 billion.

The Great Kalimantan Gold Mountain Fraud: Perpetrator's Corpse Suspected to Be Fake

The 1993 Bre-X gold scandal in East Kalimantan, which claimed a 53 million tonne gold discovery, was ultimately exposed as a massive fraud. The case drew in Indonesian political elites and investors before verification by Freeport-McMoran revealed the Busang site contained no gold. The disappearance and suspected faked death of Bre-X's exploration director, Michael de Guzman, remains an unresolved mystery.

BNPB: NTT Earthquake Death Toll Rises to 103, Mostly Elderly and Women

The death toll from the magnitude 7.7 earthquake in Nusa Tenggara Timur has risen to 103, with the elderly and women accounting for the largest share of victims. The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) also reported 1,666 injured and 185,113 displaced people. Aftershocks continue to affect residents' psychological condition, with more than 7,000 recorded since the main quake.

BMKG: Sarolangun has highest number of hotspots in Jambi

The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) reported that Sarolangun Regency recorded the highest number of hotspots in Jambi Province on 24 August 2026, with 348 detected. This represents a significant decrease of around 100 hotspots compared to the previous day. Residents are urged to remain vigilant against potential forest and land fires and the spread of smoke.

Apple believed to raise iPhone 18 series prices due to memory crisis

Apple is expected to increase the price of its iPhone 18 series by around US$100 due to a surge in memory component costs. Internal sources suggest the company can no longer maintain thin profit margins, prompting the price adjustment. The move is seen as a way to share costs with consumers while keeping prices competitive with rivals such as Samsung.

DSI Resmi Umumkan Jajaran Komisaris dan Direksi, Luke Thomas Mahony Jadi Direktur Utama

PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia (DSI) has formally announced its board of commissioners and directors to strengthen governance of strategic natural resource exports. The company, led by Australian citizen Luke Thomas Mahony as President Director, aims to prevent price manipulation practices such as under-invoicing and transfer pricing. The board includes former Trade Minister Mari Elka Pangestu and Freeport Indonesia President Director Tony Wenas, reflecting a broad mix of government, mining, and finance expertise.

Prabowo: On Prophet Muhammad's Birthday, we keep working for the people

President Prabowo Subianto marked the Prophet Muhammad's birthday by launching a 100 GWp solar power plant project in Jembrana, Bali, emphasising that the government continues to work for national progress even on public holidays. The project is part of the National Priority Programme for Energy and Water Independence, aimed at strengthening energy self-sufficiency and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. The government has instructed that the 100 GWp solar capacity be completed by 2029, with projected annual electricity cost savings of Rp73.9 trillion.

JD Vance Slip of Tongue Calls Canada a US State, Ontario Threatens to Cut Electricity

US Vice President J.D. Vance accidentally referred to Canada as a 'state' during a press conference in Maine, reigniting tensions over President Trump's rhetoric about Canada becoming the 51st US state. The incident occurred hours after Ontario threatened to halt electricity and strategic mineral supplies to the US if Washington's pressure continues. The dispute has expanded beyond tariffs to encompass sovereignty, energy, and national security.

Saudi Arabia and France discuss strengthening AlUla development cooperation

Saudi Arabia and France held a joint ministerial committee meeting in Paris to review progress and expand cooperation on developing the AlUla region. The partnership covers culture, tourism, heritage preservation, renewable energy, and strategic projects such as the AlUla Tram and Sharaan Resort. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to positioning AlUla as a global destination aligned with Saudi Vision 2030.

Indonesia's Rice Stock Claimed Safe in Facing El Nino

The National Food Agency (Bapanas) has assured that Indonesia's government rice reserves, exceeding 5 million tonnes, are sufficient to mitigate the impact of the El Nino climate phenomenon. Head of Bapanas Andi Amran Sulaiman stated that the current stock is the highest in the nation's history and will be used to prevent hunger and support disaster-affected communities. The government has also allocated nearly 10,000 tonnes of rice aid for earthquake victims in East Nusa Tenggara.

Energy Self-Sufficiency: Prabowo Targets 100 Gigawatt Solar Power Plants

President Prabowo Subianto has announced an ambitious target to develop 100 gigawatts of solar power capacity within three years to secure Indonesia's energy independence. The programme is expected to reduce electricity costs by Rp73.9 trillion and eliminate the need for oil and LPG imports. The development will be carried out in stages, with completion targeted by 2029.

Brazil's President Lula Urges Trump to Maintain Direct Communication Without Marco Rubio

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has reportedly spoken directly with US President Donald Trump, proposing that the two countries maintain a direct line of communication without intermediaries. The move is seen as a strategic effort to limit the influence of US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, whom Lula reportedly views as having distorted information about Brazil. Lula is said to be considering an official visit to the United States next year if re-elected.

Joint team intensify efforts as 11 hotspots detected in Singkawang

Authorities in Singkawang, West Kalimantan, are intensifying firefighting and cooling operations after 11 hotspots were detected in the Pangmilang area. Police, military, disaster agency personnel, and volunteers are working to prevent the spread of fires amid dry and windy conditions. Officials are urging residents to avoid land clearing by burning and to report any fires promptly to protect public health and air quality.

Drug Fugitive Killed in Shootout with Police in Lampung, Three Officers Wounded

A wanted drug suspect identified as PHP was killed in a gunfight with police in North Lampung in the early hours of Tuesday. Three police officers sustained gunshot injuries during the operation, one of whom was referred to a hospital in Bandar Lampung. Police said the suspect opened fire first and was also linked to an illegal firearms network.

Academic praises Prabowo's firmness in handling forest and land fire cases

A government academic has commended President Prabowo Subianto's firm approach to tackling forest and land fires in Kalimantan and Sumatra. He stressed that law enforcement and central-regional government synergy are essential to deter future incidents. The President has ordered investigations into whether 72 suspects are linked to corporations or acting individually.

Kartu Kredit Indonesia: A New payment landscape

Bank Indonesia's new Kartu Kredit Indonesia (KKI) scheme integrates domestic credit card processing with the widely used QRIS payment system, aiming to bring credit into everyday small-value transactions. With QRIS already reaching nearly 45 million merchants, mostly MSMEs, KKI could shift credit usage from occasional large purchases to frequent low-value spending. The initiative follows India's RuPay-UPI model and aligns with BI's broader push to strengthen domestic payment infrastructure.

Viral Video Shows Suspected Thief Stripped and Beaten by Mob in Giwangan, Yogyakarta

A man suspected of attempted theft was stripped and beaten by a mob in Giwangan, Yogyakarta, after allegedly threatening residents with a knife. Police confirmed the 36-year-old suspect from Blora, Central Java, was arrested following a chase and is now in custody. Authorities also acknowledged that vigilante action, including beatings and the removal of his clothing, occurred before officers intervened.

Indonesian Navy confirms Lampung carrier base ready to welcome Garibaldi

The Indonesian Navy has confirmed that the aircraft carrier base in Lampung is being prepared for the arrival of the former Italian carrier ITS Giuseppe Garibaldi, which will be renamed KRI Gajah Mada. The vessel is scheduled to arrive in Indonesia in mid-September 2026, with a formal flag-changing ceremony planned for 25 September, likely attended by President Prabowo Subianto.

Anak Krakatau Erupts 42 Times from Midnight to Midday

Mount Anak Krakatau in the Sunda Strait recorded 42 eruptions between midnight and midday on Tuesday, according to the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources' Magma Indonesia monitoring page. The volcano emitted thick grey and black ash reaching up to 300 metres above the summit. Authorities have prohibited the public and tourists from approaching within a 3-kilometre radius of the active crater.

Forestry Minister: Three company cases in Jambi under investigation over forest and land fires

Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni has confirmed that three company cases in Jambi are among 42 forest and land fire violations currently under investigation by the ministry's law enforcement team. He stressed that the government will not be selective in enforcing the law, in line with President Prabowo's directives. The minister also warned that the 2026 dry season is expected to be intense and prolonged, requiring coordinated prevention efforts.

Prabowo Says Danantara Leadership Deserves State Honour, What Are the Reasons?

President Prabowo Subianto has stated that the leadership of the Daya Anagata Nusantara Investment Management Agency (BPI Danantara) deserves a state honour for its achievements. He highlighted significant improvements in the performance of state-owned enterprises (BUMN), with some previously loss-making companies now recording profits. The President attributed this success to the leadership, integrity, and patriotism of Danantara's management.

Peatland Fires in Pelalawan Reach 702 Hectares

Forest and land fires on peatland in Pelalawan Regency, Riau, have now scorched 702 hectares of production forest. Joint firefighting teams continue to battle the blaze, with the southern fire front not yet fully contained. Authorities cite extreme heat, wind speed, and deep peat as key challenges slowing suppression efforts.

NTT Earthquake Update: 103 Fatalities, 185,000 Still Displaced

The death toll from the magnitude 7.7 earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara has risen to 103, with more than 185,000 people still displaced. Aftershocks continue to cause panic among residents, with over 7,000 recorded since the main quake. Authorities expect the aftershock pattern to persist for up to four weeks.

Homes Confirmed Safe, 84 Families of NTT Earthquake Survivors Returned

Eighty-four families displaced by the magnitude 7.7 Flores earthquake have begun returning home after authorities verified their houses were safe to occupy. The government is providing repair funds of up to Rp30 million for damaged homes and Rp600,000 per month in waiting funds for those whose houses were severely damaged.

DSI Becomes Sole Exporter, Danantara Assures No New Bureaucratic Layer

Danantara Indonesia has assured that the establishment of PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia (DSI) as the sole exporter of strategic natural resource commodities will not create additional bureaucratic layers or replace the regulatory functions of ministries and agencies. DSI will initially manage exports of coal, crude palm oil, and ferro alloy, while integrating systems from seven ministries and institutions to monitor export processes and prevent practices such as under-invoicing and transfer pricing.

President targets completion of 100 GW solar power plant construction within three years

President Prabowo Subianto has announced an ambitious target to build 100 gigawatts of solar power capacity in Indonesia within three years to achieve energy self-sufficiency. The programme, launched at a ceremony in Bali, is expected to reduce state electricity costs by Rp73.9 trillion and eliminate the need for oil and LPG imports. Ministers and state-owned enterprise chiefs have pledged their support for the phased construction plan.

Bandung City Government Prepares Rp56 Billion for BRT Public Service Obligation

The Bandung city administration has allocated up to Rp56 billion to support Bus Rapid Transit operations through a Public Service Obligation scheme, but payment is being withheld pending agreement on cost-sharing among six regional governments. The total annual PSO requirement is estimated at around Rp200 billion, with Bandung expected to contribute nearly 25 per cent. Mayor Muhammad Farhan said unresolved issues from BRT construction, including parking relocation and impacts on street vendors, must also be addressed.

DPR Urges Public to Await Official Clarification on Account Freezing

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has called on the public to refrain from speculation regarding the freezing of accounts at Bank Mandiri. Firnando Hadityo Ganinduto emphasised that the state-owned bank operates under strict regulations and that any account restrictions may be part of lawful procedures. He urged the public to await official clarification and respect the ongoing legal process.

How to Safely Seek Medical Treatment Abroad to Avoid Hoaxes

Patients seeking medical treatment abroad are urged to verify all claims through official hospital representatives rather than relying on hearsay from social media or messaging groups. Medisata, an official representative office for overseas hospitals, offers free services to help patients navigate treatment pathways, arrange appointments, and evaluate medical records. The organisation emphasises that preliminary curation prevents scenarios where seriously ill patients travel abroad only to be turned away by specialists who lack the competence to handle their cases.

Hajj Waiting List in Purwakarta Reaches 31 Years

The Hajj and Umrah Ministry office in Purwakarta Regency has recorded a waiting list of 31 years for prospective pilgrims, with 16,026 residents currently registered. The annual quota for the region averages around 500 people, though it is expected to rise to 630 in 2027. Despite the lengthy wait, public enthusiasm remains high, with five to ten new registrations each day.

Bandung City Government completes overhead cable removal on 42 roads

The Bandung City Government has completed the relocation of overhead cables to underground ducts on 42 roads as part of its telecommunications infrastructure and urban aesthetics programme. The city aims to finish cable removal on 85 roads by the end of 2026, with work now continuing on Jalan Karapitan. Operators are given a maximum of three months after duct infrastructure is completed to move their cables underground.

Police Reveal Progress in Investigation into Death of Sutrimo

Jakarta Metropolitan Police have examined 27 witnesses in the investigation into the death of Sutrimo, who was found dead outside a beauty clinic in South Jakarta. Forensic experts have exhumed the body and are awaiting laboratory results to determine whether poison was present. Police expect to receive the forensic findings this week.

TNI Cassa Aircraft Skids at Hasanuddin Airport

A Cassa aircraft believed to belong to the Indonesian Navy skidded on the runway at Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport in Maros, South Sulawesi, on Tuesday. The incident occurred on runway 03-21 and has been confirmed by airport authorities. Airport personnel are carrying out evacuation procedures while normal flight operations continue.

Weather Modification Operation Carried Out in Berau to Tackle Forest and Land Fires

A weather modification operation has been launched in Berau Regency, East Kalimantan, to prevent and mitigate forest and land fires as well as drought. The operation, conducted by a Cessna 208 Caravan aircraft, dispersed one tonne of sodium chloride over the area. It forms part of broader mitigation efforts to reduce fire risk and protect the environment in the region.

Indonesia's Religious Harmony Index Hits Record High, But Are Religious Conflicts 100% Resolved?

Indonesia's Religious Harmony Index (IKUB) reached a record high of 77.89 in 2025, according to the Ministry of Religious Affairs. Officials caution that the high score does not mean religious conflicts have disappeared, and the government continues to strengthen early warning systems to prevent escalation.

Former West Lombok Regent Files Judicial Review Despite Corruption Sentence Cut by 4 Years

Former West Lombok Regent Zaini Arony has filed a judicial review (PK) with the Mataram District Court despite his corruption sentence being reduced from nine years to five years at cassation level. His legal team argues the ruling remains unfair, citing new evidence that the land and building central to the Lombok City Center case have been returned to the government. Zaini was convicted over a joint operation agreement between regional company PT Tripat and PT Bliss Pembangunan Sejahtera.

Bahlil records potential investment of Rp1,140 trillion for 100 GWp solar power project

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has announced that the 100 gigawatt peak solar power programme could attract approximately Rp1,140 trillion in investment. The initiative is also expected to save Rp73.9 trillion in subsidies by replacing diesel-fired power plants and to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 140.16 million tonnes of CO2. President Prabowo Subianto officially launched the strategic programme in Gilimanuk, Bali.

Brazil's president offers Trump direct contact without Rubio's involvement

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has proposed maintaining direct contact with US President Donald Trump, bypassing US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Lula reportedly expressed dissatisfaction with Rubio's actions and raised concerns about distorted information regarding Brazil's electronic voting system. The Brazilian government hopes relations with Washington will improve if Lula is re-elected this year.

DPD Speaker Urges Law Enforcement to Take Firm Action Against Forest Fire Perpetrators

The Speaker of Indonesia's Regional Representative Council (DPD), Sultan Bachtiar Najamudin, has called for firm legal action against those responsible for forest and land fires across several regions. He highlighted the role of extreme weather linked to El Niño and climate change in worsening the fires, while stressing the need for both preventive measures and strict enforcement. South Sumatra Police have so far named 20 suspects in connection with fires affecting approximately 34.8 hectares.

Capital Market Investors Reach 30.3 Million, Here is Advice for Beginners

The number of capital market investors in Indonesia has reached 30.3 million as of early August 2026, prompting calls for improved financial literacy. Experts advise beginners to define their investment goals before choosing instruments, ensuring alignment with their risk tolerance and time horizon. The growth comes amid a strengthening stock market, with the Jakarta Composite Index rising 1.93 percent during the week.

Post-Earthquake Health Services in NTT Continue in Emergency Tents

Health services at Ruteng Hospital in Manggarai, East Nusa Tenggara, continue to operate from emergency tents following the recent earthquake that damaged several buildings. Deputy Chair of House Commission IX Nihayatul Wafiroh highlighted that maternity, radiology, and emergency services are being provided in temporary facilities, with around 15 patients in the postnatal tent alone. She urged the government, particularly the Ministry of Health, to address urgent issues at the hospital.

President Prabowo: Danantara Leadership Deserves State Honours

President Prabowo Subianto has praised the leadership of the Danantara investment management agency, stating they deserve state honours for significantly improving the performance of state-owned enterprises. He highlighted that several SOEs which had been loss-making for decades are now turning a profit under Danantara's coordination. The President also stressed that the government will not be complacent and will continue to tighten state financial management to prevent budget leakages.

Yogyakarta Becak Driver Baffled by Inclusion in Desil 9 of National Socio-Economic Data

A motorcycle becak driver in Yogyakarta has questioned his classification in desil 9 of the National Single Socio-Economic Data (DTSEN), which indicates relatively high welfare, despite his modest income and reliance on social assistance. The case has prompted responses from local officials and the Central Statistics Agency (BPS), who clarified that desil rankings are relative and can be verified and corrected. The Yogyakarta provincial government has pledged to ensure that citizens whose data does not reflect their actual conditions can still access social aid.

DSI Becomes Single Exporter, Danantara Ensures No New Bureaucracy Layer

Danantara Indonesia has assured that PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia (DSI), the newly designated sole exporter of strategic natural resource commodities, will not create additional bureaucratic layers or usurp regulatory functions. The company will initially manage export governance for coal, crude palm oil, and ferro alloys, while integrating systems from seven ministries and agencies to detect anomalies such as under-invoicing and transfer pricing. DSI will operate as an export intermediary in its early phase, with all licensing, regulation, and supervision remaining under the relevant government bodies.

East Kalimantan Forestry Service strengthens synergy with law enforcement for forest fire patrols

The East Kalimantan Forestry Service is intensifying collaboration with police, military, and forestry law enforcement to prevent forest and land fires and illegal activities across the province's eight million hectares of forest. With only 94 forest police officers available, the service has deployed 1,776 community partner personnel and drone patrols to monitor high-risk areas. Offenders found during patrols are handed over to forestry law enforcement and police for legal processing.

Ministry of Forestry focuses on wetting peatland in Ring 1 of Syamsudin Noor Airport, South Kalimantan

The Ministry of Forestry is prioritising the saturation of burnt peatland around Syamsudin Noor International Airport in Banjarbaru, South Kalimantan, to extinguish underground embers. Fire has spread beneath the surface, making surface-level firefighting insufficient. Teams are injecting water up to two metres deep to turn the soil into mud and prevent further flare-ups.

Bulog Medan increases SPHP rice distribution to maintain price stability

Perum Bulog's Medan branch has raised daily distribution of SPHP rice to 150 tonnes, up from 100 tonnes the previous week, to meet growing demand and stabilise prices. The programme covers six districts and cities in North Sumatra, with realisation already at 90 per cent of the 2026 target. The state logistics agency is also monitoring sales to ensure compliance with the government's maximum retail price of Rp13,100 per kilogramme.

Prabowo Reminds Ministers There Are No Days Off: If You Can't Handle It, Step Aside, Many Want to Replace You

President Prabowo Subianto has told his ministers that there are effectively no public holidays in his Red and White Cabinet, urging them to continue working for the people even on national holidays. Speaking at the launch of a 100 GWp solar power plant project in Bali on the Prophet Muhammad's birthday, he said those unable to cope should step aside as many others are eager to take their place.

BMoney Launches Third Privilege Lounge in Surabaya to Expand Premium Investment Access

BMoney, the investment app under Bukalapak subsidiary PT Buka Investasi Bersama, has opened its third Privilege Private Lounge at Ciputra World Surabaya. The expansion follows lounges in Jakarta and Bandung and comes as the platform surpasses one million users with assets under management reaching Rp 6 trillion. The company says the move reflects its commitment to providing exclusive, personalised investment experiences beyond Jakarta.

Pati United Community Alliance Demands Asset Seizure Bill and Death Penalty for Corruptors in 27 August Protest

The Pati United Community Alliance (AMPB) is sending hundreds of residents to Jakarta for a mass demonstration at the DPR on 27 August 2026. The group is demanding the immediate passage of the Asset Seizure Bill and the application of the death penalty for corruption convicts. Organisers have arranged free transport and provisions funded entirely by public donations, and have included penalty clauses in bus contracts to prevent last-minute cancellations.

West Java Forest and Land Fires August 2026: 196 Hectares Burned in 132 Locations

Prolonged drought across West Java has triggered a significant rise in forest and land fires, with 196.4 hectares burned across 132 locations in 19 regencies and cities as of 25 August. Sukabumi Regency has suffered the most severe environmental damage, while Sumedang recorded the highest number of fire incidents. The provincial disaster agency has urged heightened vigilance as fires continue to spread to new areas.

Prabowo Extends Prophet Muhammad's Birthday Greetings to All Muslims

President Prabowo Subianto conveyed his greetings for the Prophet Muhammad's birthday while inaugurating the 100 GWp solar power plant programme in Bali. He emphasised that his administration commemorates the occasion through continued work and a commitment to tangible progress for the people. The event was attended by several ministers from the Red and White Cabinet.

East Manggarai Deputy Regent Denies BNPB Officers Pressured District Head

East Manggarai Deputy Regent Tarsisius Syukur has rejected claims that National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) officers pressured the Lamba Leda Utara district head into signing aid receipt documents. He said an internal review found no coercion and that the signing was a standard administrative requirement for aid distribution. Tarsisius also criticised the district head's emotional behaviour, which was captured in a viral video, and said the matter would be evaluated.

Gerindra focuses on supporting Prabowo, unaffected by Budi Arie's statement

The Gerindra Party has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting President Prabowo Subianto's programmes, stating it is not influenced by remarks from Projo chairman Budi Arie Setiadi about a potential early election. Party spokesman Sugiat Santoso said there are no internal discussions about the 2029 election, which he considers too distant to address. He also suggested that questions about Budi Arie's statement should be directed to Budi Arie himself.

Prabowo: Danantara leadership deserves state honours

President Prabowo Subianto has said the leadership of the Daya Anagata Nusantara Investment Management Agency (Danantara) deserves state honours for its achievements, including significant improvements in the performance of state-owned enterprises. He highlighted that several SOEs which had been loss-making for decades are now recording profits, attributing the turnaround to honest and patriotic leadership. The President made the remarks at the groundbreaking ceremony for a 100 GWp solar power plant programme in Jembrana, Bali.

Video: Danantara Promises KRL Line Extension to Cikampek and Merak

BPI Danantara's Chief Operating Officer Dony Oskaria outlined reforms across 1,074 state-owned enterprises, including addressing pension fund investment risks and reducing PNM Mekaar loan interest rates to 8% annually. The agency is also pushing mining permit enforcement, downstream processing projects, and energy transition initiatives. Plans include electrifying and extending KRL rail lines to Cikampek, Sukabumi, and Merak to stimulate new urban development.

Bulog accelerates distribution of Bapanas food aid in Central Sulawesi

State logistics agency Bulog is expediting the distribution of government rice aid to 405,404 beneficiaries in Central Sulawesi. The programme, running from July to September 2026, aims to meet basic food needs while supporting price stability and inflation control. Bulog is coordinating with local governments to ensure the aid reaches its intended recipients.

China, India hold 25th special representatives meeting on border issues

China and India are set to hold their 25th round of special representatives' talks in Beijing on Tuesday to address unresolved border issues. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Indian National Security Adviser Ajit Doval will lead the discussions, focusing on the situation along the Line of Actual Control and troop deployments.

Forestry Minister Raja Juli Explains Absence from Prabowo's Forest Fire Review

Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni has clarified why he did not accompany President Prabowo Subianto during the latter's inspection of forest and land fire handling in Kalimantan and Sumatra. The minister said the President's visit focused on strengthening military and police support for fire control. Raja Juli emphasised that his communication with the President remains good and that he was carrying out field duties in several provinces on the President's orders.

Bogor Becomes the Land of Toddlers, with Numbers That Astonish

Indonesia is home to 22.63 million children aged 0-4 years, equivalent to 7.9% of the population, with Bogor Regency alone accounting for nearly 450,000 toddlers. The ten districts with the highest numbers of young children are all located in Java, reflecting the concentration of population rather than fertility rates alone. The large child population signals substantial future demand for health, education, and public services.

Battling Fire and Smoke: The Struggle of Firefighters Tackling Riau Forest and Land Fires

Firefighters in Kampar Regency, Riau, are working in difficult conditions to extinguish forest and land fires, contending with heat, smoke, peatland terrain, strong winds, and limited water sources. The government reports that the burned area in Riau has been reduced from approximately 16,277.50 hectares between January and August 2026 to around 900 hectares still being handled. Personnel from the TNI, Polri, BPBD, Manggala Agni, and other agencies have been deployed to extinguish the remaining hotspots.

PLN Prepares Electricity and Wi-Fi for Smooth Running of 35th NU Congress

State electricity company PLN has readied power supply and telecommunications infrastructure for the 35th Nahdlatul Ulama Congress in Jombang, East Java. Independent Commissioner Ali Masykur Musa inspected the venue to ensure reliable electricity and internet access during the event, which is scheduled to be opened by President Prabowo Subianto. The support forms part of PLN's corporate social responsibility programme.

Vilmei Loses Rp1.2 Billion Allegedly Stolen by Employee from TikTok Account

Content creator Vilmei has reported the alleged theft of Rp1.28 billion from her TikTok account, which she claims was drained over a year by an employee and her boyfriend. The case has been reported to Bekasi City Police, with the main suspect still at large.

DPR Urges Safeguarding of Investment Climate in Pati Amid Negative Image

Deputy Speaker of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) Sari Yuliati has called for the protection of Pati Regency's investment climate, warning that negative perceptions could deter investors and harm the local economy, particularly coastal communities. She urged central and regional governments to balance investment interests with the protection of fishermen and environmental sustainability. The statement follows concerns raised by local groups about stigma and polarisation affecting the region's reputation.

Sukabumi City Government Closes Two Temporary Waste Disposal Sites in Lembursitu, Prepares New Scheme

The Sukabumi city administration has shut down two temporary waste disposal sites in Lembursitu as part of efforts to comply with Ministry of Environment regulations and change public behaviour on household waste management. Deputy Mayor Bobby Maulana said the closures were agreed with local residents and will be replaced by a new RW-based waste management system. The new scheme includes providing waste carts funded through the revised regional budget and using three-wheeled vehicles to transport rubbish to a transfer point behind Lembursitu Terminal.

Papua Governor calls 2026 Economic Census data investment

Papua Governor Fakhiri has described the 2026 Economic Census as a strategic investment in data that will underpin future development policies for the province. He stressed that the census requires collaboration among all stakeholders to produce accurate and complete data, particularly following administrative boundary changes from the creation of new autonomous regions. Comprehensive data, he said, will help sharpen policies to realise the Papua CERAH vision and support growth based on leading commodities.

BPDP Engages 42 Educational Institutions to Accelerate Smallholder Palm Oil Replanting

Indonesia's Oil Palm Plantation Fund Management Agency (BPDP) is accelerating the Smallholder Palm Oil Replanting Programme (PSR) by partnering with 42 educational institutions to strengthen human resources in the plantation sector. Since 2016, the programme has reached 187,782 smallholders covering 428,745 hectares with total disbursements of Rp12.86 trillion. The agency is also expanding its education and training programmes, with a 2026 quota of 5,000 scholarship recipients from diploma to undergraduate level.

National Police International Relations Division Assists in Tracing Four Australian Nationals Accused of Assaulting British National in Kuta

Denpasar police are pursuing four Australian nationals suspected of assaulting British citizen Paul Innes Dougan in Kuta, who later died in hospital. The suspects had already left Indonesia a day after the incident, prompting coordination with the National Police's International Relations Division to track them down. Police are still awaiting autopsy results to confirm the cause of death.

House of Representatives Urges Incentives for Health Workers Serving in NTT

Commission IX of the Indonesian House of Representatives has called for incentives for all medical and health workers deployed to earthquake-affected areas in East Nusa Tenggara. The commission emphasised that such incentives are not merely financial but a form of recognition for health workers' dedication under difficult conditions. It also urged local governments to promptly survey damaged homes of health workers so they can receive central government repair assistance.

Dozens of Businesses on Central Java's North Coast Destroyed by Fire, Losses in Billions of Rupiah

A series of fires along Central Java's northern coast destroyed dozens of business premises and caused estimated losses of billions of rupiah. The incidents affected a market in Demak, a furniture warehouse in Jepara, and a shipbuilding yard in Batang. Authorities suspect electrical short circuits and leftover burning materials as likely causes, with no fatalities reported.

Prabowo Officially Launches Construction of 100 GW Solar Power Project

President Prabowo Subianto has officially broken ground on a 100 GWp solar power project in Jembrana, Bali, aiming to end Indonesia's reliance on imported crude oil and LPG. The initial phase covers 5.3 GW, with Bali receiving 1 GW plus battery storage, and the government expects the project to cut energy subsidy spending by Rp 73.9 trillion annually. Prabowo has challenged his energy team to complete the full 100 GW within two years, faster than the original three-year target.

Indonesian Navy deploys hospital ship to treat earthquake victims in NTT

The Indonesian Navy has deployed KRI dr. Soeharso-990 to provide medical assistance and oxygen supplies to residents affected by the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. The hospital ship has been treating patients, performing surgeries, and distributing oxygen cylinders to those in need. The vessel will remain in the region until conditions recover.

Before the Cassa, a TNI AU Sukhoi Fighter Jet Skidded Off the Runway

Two aircraft incidents occurred on consecutive days at Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport in Maros, South Sulawesi. A TNI AU Sukhoi fighter jet skidded off the runway on Monday, followed by a Cassa aircraft on Tuesday. Airport authorities confirmed both incidents and stated that handling was carried out in accordance with aviation safety procedures.

Prabowo Launches Rp 6.05 Trillion Gilimanuk Solar Power Plant Development

President Prabowo Subianto has inaugurated the development of the Gilimanuk Solar Power Plant (PLTS) in Jembrana, Bali, a strategic project valued at Rp 6.05 trillion. The facility will combine 300 MWp of solar capacity with a 1,000 MWh battery energy storage system, aiming to eliminate fossil fuel use in Bali's electricity system. The project is part of a broader provincial target of 1,000 MWp solar capacity and is expected to save up to 151,000 kilolitres of fuel annually.

PP Semmi Calls for Peaceful Democracy, Rejects Divisive Provocation

The central board of the Indonesian Muslim Students Union (PP Semmi) has urged the public to practise democracy through respectful dialogue and constitutional means. The organisation also rejected a planned demonstration by AMPB at the DPR building on 27 August, claiming it does not represent public concerns. It further called for solidarity with regions affected by natural disasters.

Forestry Ministry readies support for Jambi's weather modification

The Forestry Ministry has pledged full support for weather modification operations in Jambi to stimulate rainfall and reduce forest and land fires, with aircraft and helicopters on standby. The move follows President Prabowo Subianto's directive for firm law enforcement against individuals and companies responsible for wildfires. Authorities have named eight suspects in seven wildfire cases as fires have burned more than 916 hectares across the province.

Forestry Minister Orders Weather Modification Operation in Jambi

Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni has instructed a weather modification operation in Jambi to tackle forest and land fires, with the province ranking sixth nationally for hotspots. The operation is scheduled for 27–30 August 2026, with aircraft ready for cloud seeding and central government support on standby. Law enforcement agencies have also pledged firm action against individuals and corporations responsible for the fires.

Indonesian Navy deploys KRI Semarang to carry logistics and trucks to NTT

The Indonesian Navy has dispatched KRI Semarang-594 to deliver humanitarian aid to earthquake victims in East Nusa Tenggara. The vessel is transporting dozens of tonnes of supplies, including rice, water, tents and medicine, along with 15 trucks to distribute the aid. The mission underscores the military's role in supporting disaster relief efforts across the archipelago.

BMKG Issues Earthquake Preparedness Guide: What to Do and What to Avoid

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has issued a comprehensive earthquake preparedness guide, urging the public to prepare before, during and after seismic events. The agency emphasises the importance of knowing evacuation routes, securing heavy furniture, and preparing an emergency bag. The guidance also outlines specific actions for different scenarios, including indoors, outdoors, in vehicles and near coastal areas.

Prabowo Officially Launches 100 GWp Solar Power Project, Targeting Completion by 2029

President Prabowo Subianto has officially launched a 100 gigawatt peak (GWp) solar power programme for Indonesia, setting an ambitious target for completion within three years by 2029. The initial phase involves 14 solar plants across five provinces with a combined capacity of 5.3 GWp. The project represents a significant acceleration of Indonesia's energy transition, given that current installed solar capacity stands at only around 1.5 GWp.

Prabowo arrives in Jembrana to launch 100 GWp solar power programme

President Prabowo Subianto has inaugurated a national programme to develop 100 gigawatt peak of solar power capacity by 2029, part of efforts to strengthen energy independence and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. The initiative is projected to deliver annual electricity cost savings of Rp73.9 trillion and create around 1.7 million jobs, including over 760,000 green jobs. The government also aims to build 30 GWp of solar capacity in 2026 while retiring 13 GW of diesel power plants.

Foam Chair Production House in Solo Catches Fire, Two Teenagers Suffer Burns

A fire destroyed a house that doubled as a foam chair production facility in Solo, Central Java, injuring two teenagers. The blaze, believed to have been started by a child playing with fire near flammable foam materials, caused an estimated Rp100 million in losses. Authorities have urged residents to store flammable materials safely and supervise children.

BNPB helicopter relies on Guntung Damar retention basin to tackle Banjarbaru forest and land fires

The National Disaster Management Agency's water bombing helicopter is using the Guntung Damar retention basin as its main water source to combat forest and land fires around Banjarbaru, the capital of South Kalimantan. Governor Muhidin has requested that irrigation channels be cleared to maintain water levels and emphasised that the area around Syamsudin Noor International Airport is a priority for fire suppression efforts.

Demanding Asset Forfeiture for Corruptors, AMPB Again Dispatches Hundreds of Protesters to Jakarta

The Pati United Community Alliance (AMPB) has dispatched hundreds of demonstrators to Jakarta for a protest outside the DPR building on 27 August 2026. The group is demanding the ratification of the asset forfeiture bill and the death penalty for corruptors. The departure follows an earlier disruption in which bus companies allegedly cancelled agreements due to intimidation.

Aid for NTT Earthquake Victims Expanded to 9 Affected Areas

The Indonesian Housing Developers Association (APERSI) has expanded its first-phase aid distribution for earthquake victims in East Nusa Tenggara from six to nine locations, citing field assessments of need. Around Rp100 million of the Rp250 million raised has been used so far, with a second phase planned for early September targeting Ende, Sikka, and Nagekeo regencies.

UI Professor: Subsidy policy and energy transition need improvement

A University of Indonesia economics professor has called for reforms to energy subsidy policy and the energy transition as fiscal space narrows. Telisa Aulia Falianty argues that the transition must be gradual, inclusive and supported by targeted subsidies based on socio-economic data. She warns that maintaining or cutting subsidies both carry significant risks for the state budget and public purchasing power.

Spain to Form Integrated Response Centre to Tackle Ceuta Migration Crisis

Spain's Economy Minister Carlos Cuerpo has announced the creation of an integrated response centre to coordinate authorities handling the migration crisis in Ceuta. The move follows a significant surge in migrants entering the Spanish exclave from Morocco and will be formalised through a royal decree. The government is expected to declare the situation a matter of national security interest.

Indonesian Air Force Speaks Out on Sukhoi Skidding at Hasanuddin Air Base, South Sulawesi

The Indonesian Air Force has confirmed that a Sukhoi Su-30 MK2 fighter jet skidded off the runway at Sultan Hasanuddin Air Base during a post-overhaul test flight. The incident occurred when the braking system failed to function optimally, causing the aircraft to overshoot the runway by 30 metres. Both the aircraft and its crew were reported safe, and the jet has been towed to a maintenance hangar for inspection.

Apindo: Labour Bill Must Become a Job Creation Engine

The Indonesian Employers' Association (Apindo) has urged that the proposed Labour Protection and Job Expansion Bill be designed to expand formal employment, boost productivity, and strengthen Indonesia's competitiveness. Apindo argues that worker protection and business growth are complementary, not competing, interests. The association also called for greater state investment in vocational training, reskilling, and social security systems.