Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 25 August 2026

Showing 501-1,000 of 1,030 articles

Pakistan Mediates Iran-US Conflict, Pushes Revitalisation of Islamabad MoU

Pakistan's Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Army Chief Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir held strategic talks with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian aimed at resolving the prolonged standoff between Tehran and Washington. The discussions focused on reviving the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding as a key instrument towards a comprehensive settlement. Pakistan is seeking to bridge the diplomatic impasse and prevent further escalation in the volatile Middle East region.

Navy Aircraft Skids Off Runway, Flight Schedules Delayed at Sultan Hasanuddin Airport

A Cassa aircraft belonging to the Indonesian Navy skidded off the runway at Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport in Maros, South Sulawesi, causing delays to several commercial flights. Airport operator Angkasa Pura Indonesia stated that operations continued normally using a second runway, though multiple Lion Air, Wings Air and Citilink flights experienced schedule changes.

Forestry Minister reveals focus of President Prabowo's working visit after skipping forest fire inspection

Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni has explained why he did not accompany President Prabowo Subianto during the president's inspection of forest and land fire handling in Kalimantan and Sumatra. The minister said the president's visit focused on strengthening TNI and Polri support, including additional personnel and equipment such as water bombing helicopters. Antoni stressed that his communication with the president remains good and that he continues to carry out field duties on the president's orders.

Legal Expert Stresses Judge Must Be Objective in Febrie Adriansyah Pretrial Ruling

A criminal law expert has urged the judge handling the pretrial motion of former Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah to remain objective and independent. Abdul Fickar Hadjar of Trisakti University warned against external interference and noted that the Attorney General's Office likely had sufficient evidence before naming Febrie a suspect. He added that even if the pretrial motion is granted, prosecutors could still initiate new legal proceedings.

Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs retains unqualified opinion for 18 consecutive years

The Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs has secured an unqualified opinion (WTP) from the Supreme Audit Agency (BPK) for its 2025 financial report, marking the 18th consecutive year of the achievement. Coordinating Minister Airlangga Hartarto credited the result to sound internal governance and budget management. The ministry also highlighted strong national economic fundamentals, including 5.45 percent growth in the first half of the year.

199 SPPG in Depok Required to Comply with Wastewater Quality Standards

The Depok City Government has instructed all 199 Satuan Pelayanan Pemenuhan Gizi (SPPG) units to comply with wastewater quality standards to support the Free Nutritious Meals programme. Each unit must have a wastewater treatment plant and conduct regular laboratory testing on its outlet. The policy follows Minister of Environment Decree No. 2760 of 2025 and aims to prevent pollution and protect public health.

UK PM Andy Burnham to Meet Donald Trump to Discuss Patriot Missiles for Ukraine

British Prime Minister Andy Burnham is reportedly planning a strategic visit to the United States in September to discuss the procurement of Patriot air defence systems for Ukraine. European leaders aim to persuade President Donald Trump to release American Patriot missile stockpiles to bolster Kyiv's defences before winter. The Kremlin has reacted negatively, warning that further Western arms supplies will hinder peaceful conflict resolution.

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

President Prabowo Subianto has officially commenced construction of a 100 gigawatt peak (GWp) solar power plant programme, with the first phase groundbreaking held in Gilimanuk, Bali. The project is targeted for completion by 2029 and is projected to save up to Rp73.9 trillion in electricity costs annually. The initiative forms part of the government's priority programme to strengthen national energy independence and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

This 'Companion' of Prophet Muhammad Is Still Alive, Aged 1,400 Years

A solitary pistachio tree in Jordan's Safawi desert, believed to have sheltered the young Prophet Muhammad during a trading journey, has become a religious tourism destination. Known as the Sahabi Tree, it was rediscovered by Prince Ghazi bin Muhammad through royal archives. The tree is estimated to be over 1,400 years old and is regarded as a living witness to the Prophet's early life.

Academic Praises Prabowo's Stance on Law Enforcement in Forest Fire Cases

Achmad Baidowi, a governance academic from Institut Darul Ulum Banyuanyar, has commended President Prabowo Subianto's firm approach to tackling forest and land fires in Kalimantan and Sumatra. He urged thorough investigation into the 72 suspects, including possible corporate involvement, to create a deterrent effect. The academic also highlighted the importance of central and regional government synergy in controlling the fires.

Sorong Deputy Mayor: Prophet Muhammad's Birthday a Momentum to Strengthen Brotherhood and Tolerance

Sorong Deputy Mayor Anshar Karim has called on residents to use the commemoration of Prophet Muhammad's birthday as an opportunity to reinforce brotherhood, tolerance, and harmony. He emphasised that values such as honesty, compassion, justice, and mutual respect are universal and essential in community life. Karim also stressed that regional development requires cooperation across all religious, ethnic, and cultural groups.

President Prabowo Subianto Arrives in Bali for Groundbreaking of Rp6 Trillion Gilimanuk Solar Power Plant

President Prabowo Subianto has launched the Gilimanuk Solar Power Plant (PLTS) project in Jembrana Regency, Bali, marking a significant step in Indonesia's national energy transition. The project, with a capital expenditure of Rp6.057 trillion, is a collaboration between the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, Danantara Indonesia, and state electricity firm PLN. It is expected to produce 470 GWh annually and eliminate 151,000 kilolitres of fuel oil consumption per year in Bali.

Nagekeo Primary School Boy Survives 7.7 Magnitude Earthquake

An 11-year-old pupil in Nagekeo, East Nusa Tenggara, narrowly escaped death when a 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck while he was sleeping, causing a concrete block to fall on his knee and his family home to collapse. Yosep Fenansius Tiba managed to leap to safety despite his injury and was later reunited with his mother. The Education Ministry has provided donations and trauma healing to affected pupils, while local officials confirmed the injured have received medical treatment.

President Prabowo arrives in Bali to launch Gilimanuk solar power plant development

President Prabowo Subianto has inaugurated the groundbreaking of the Gilimanuk Solar Power Plant (PLTS) in Jembrana, Bali. The project, developed by the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, Danantara Indonesia, and PLN, will have a capacity of 300 MWp with a 1,000 MWh battery energy storage system. It is projected to save 151,000 kilolitres of fuel per year and forms part of Bali's broader target of 1,000 MWp solar capacity.

Two Bekasi Women on Trial After Offering Sexual Services in Surabaya

Two women from Bekasi, West Java, are standing trial at Surabaya District Court for allegedly offering threesome sexual services through an online messaging application. Prosecutors say the defendants travelled to Surabaya after hearing that the online prostitution market there was thriving, and were arrested during a police raid at a hotel. They are charged under Indonesia's Pornography Law.

Dishub Said to Propose Parking Tariff Increase of Up to Rp 60,000 per Hour, Pramono Claims He Only Just Found Out

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has distanced himself from a proposed parking tariff increase of up to Rp 60,000 per hour for cars, claiming the figure did not originate from the Jakarta Provincial Government. The proposal was reportedly put forward by the Jakarta Transportation Agency during discussions with the Regional Legislative Council. A council member has called for the proposal to be reviewed, describing the proposed rates as too high.

MPR Four Pillars Quiz Competition Trains Students to Tackle Case Study Questions

The national-level MPR Four Pillars Quiz Competition 2026 is designed to develop students' critical thinking and problem-solving skills rather than mere memorisation. A total of 38 schools from across Indonesia participated in the preliminary round held at the Parliament Complex in Jakarta. MPR officials emphasised that the case study-based format aims to instil Pancasila values more deeply among young people.

Nobel Economist Reveals US Weakness, Trump's Trade War with Canada Could Backfire

Nobel laureate Paul Krugman warns that the United States is not immune from losses in its escalating trade dispute with Canada, despite its larger economy. President Trump has threatened 50 percent tariffs on Canadian vehicles and parts from January 2027 after negotiations collapsed. Canada is preparing dollar-for-dollar retaliation, with Prime Minister Mark Carney rejecting what he called treatment of his country as a US subsidiary.

Central Java government pursues weather modification to tackle drought in 14 regions

The Central Java provincial government is deploying weather modification technology to mitigate the impact of prolonged drought affecting 14 districts. The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has placed these areas under meteorological drought alert status until the end of August 2026, with low rainfall expected to persist until late September. Deputy Governor Taj Yasin also called for long-term improvements in water management, including preserving water absorption areas amid increasing concrete development.

Polda Metro to Announce Forensic Results on Sutrimo's Body This Week

Jakarta Metropolitan Police are expected to receive forensic examination results this week regarding the death of Sutrimo, whose body was exhumed earlier this month. Investigators have questioned 27 witnesses as part of the ongoing inquiry into the suspicious circumstances surrounding his death. The forensic team is conducting toxicology, DNA, and histopathology tests on the remains.

Civil Servant Found Dead at Private Residence in Indramayu

A civil servant identified only as I was found dead at his home in Indramayu, West Java, with police suspecting suicide by hanging. The victim was discovered still wearing his full civil service uniform, and had reportedly expressed suicidal intentions to family members on several occasions. Police are continuing their investigation into the motive.

ASITA NTB prepares recovery plan for Sade Traditional Village and alternative tourism

The West Nusa Tenggara chapter of the Association of the Indonesian Tours and Travel Agencies (ASITA NTB) is preparing alternative tourism packages and fundraising efforts to support recovery of the fire-damaged Sade Traditional Village in Central Lombok. The association will coordinate with the provincial government to formulate post-disaster recovery measures. The Ministry of Tourism and Ministry of Culture have also pledged support, including emergency kitchens and cultural heritage documentation.

Vegetation Fire in Palabuhanratu Adds to List of Incidents Caused by Prolonged Dry Season in Sukabumi

A vegetation fire broke out near residential areas in Palabuhanratu, Sukabumi, on Sunday, adding to a growing number of land and forest fires caused by the prolonged dry season. Firefighters faced difficult terrain and had to tackle the blaze manually as vehicles could not reach the site. Local disaster agency data shows at least 23 land and forest fires and 5 drought incidents have occurred in the region so far.

Scientists Study Thunderquakes, Findings Reveal New Facts—Could They Trigger Tsunamis?

Researchers at Penn State University have found that seismic signals from thunder, known as 'thunderquakes', can be used to map subsurface geology up to 100 metres deep. The study, published in Science Advances, identified previously undetected weak zones in limestone that could become sinkholes. The method utilises existing fibre-optic cables, offering a cheaper alternative to traditional seismic surveys.

Ngeropok tradition enlivens Prophet Muhammad's birthday celebrations in Serang City

The peak of the Maulid Nabi celebration in Serang City, Banten, was marked by the Ngeropok tradition, where 104 Panjang Mulud ornaments containing basic necessities, household goods, clothing and cash were distributed to residents across four villages. The tradition, which involves parading the ornaments around the neighbourhood accompanied by prayers and marawis music, prioritises children, funeral washers, religious teachers and those in need. Residents describe the event as a joyful form of charity that strengthens community bonds.

British PM plans US visit in September for Patriot missiles for Kyiv

British Prime Minister Andy Burnham is reportedly planning to visit the United States in September alongside European leaders to discuss procuring Patriot missiles for Ukraine. The group aims to persuade President Donald Trump to grant access to US Patriot missile stockpiles before winter. Russia has stated that Western arms supplies to Ukraine hinder conflict resolution and directly involve NATO countries in the war.

KKP validates data on fishermen and fisheries facilities affected by NTT earthquake

The Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries is validating data on fishermen, vessels, fishing gear and fisheries facilities impacted by the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. The ministry is also prioritising technical inspections of damaged facilities, including the Alok Fishing Port and fish auction site, so that safe infrastructure can be brought back into service. Aid distribution and donations are being coordinated with the national disaster agency, with total cash donations reaching Rp920 million.

Dompu Police Handle Alleged Sexual Assault Case Involving Foreign National at Lakey Beach

Police in Dompu, West Nusa Tenggara, are investigating an alleged sexual assault against a foreign national at Lakey Beach. A suspect with the initials AI has been detained and is undergoing intensive questioning by the Women and Children Protection Unit. Authorities are coordinating with community leaders to maintain public order and have urged the public to respect the presumption of innocence.

BNSP Appreciates Launch of LSP MPI to Strengthen Islamic Education Sector Human Resources

The National Professional Certification Board (BNSP) has welcomed the establishment of the Islamic Education Management Professional Certification Institute (LSP MPI), which will certify and assess the competence of madrasah heads from primary to tertiary levels. The institute is expected to improve the quality and professionalism of Islamic education management under the Ministry of Religious Affairs. BNSP Commissioner Muhammad Nur Hayid urged LSP MPI to uphold professional standards and ethical codes in carrying out its certification duties.

LPSK Decides to Protect Witness in Case Involving Former Jampidsus Febrie Adriansyah

The Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) has granted protection to Ferry Hongkiriwang, a witness in a corruption and money laundering case involving former Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah. The decision was made after assessing the importance of his testimony, particularly regarding the Asabri-Jiwasraya scandal, and the potential threats he faces. LPSK hopes the protection will enable him to testify safely and aid the investigation.

After Sukhoi, TNI Cassa Aircraft Skids Off Runway at Sultan Hasanuddin Airport

A Cassa aircraft believed to belong to the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) skidded off the runway at Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport in Maros, South Sulawesi. The incident occurred on the north-south runway on Tuesday, 25 August, just one day after a TNI Air Force Sukhoi fighter jet skidded on the airport's western runway. Airport authorities have confirmed the incident and stated that personnel are currently handling the situation.

Ministry of Social Affairs Strengthens Psychosocial Support for NTT Earthquake Victims

Indonesia's Ministry of Social Affairs has intensified psychosocial support services for earthquake victims in Sikka Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, prioritising vulnerable groups including children, pregnant women, and the elderly. An assessment found 19 per cent of victims in the high-risk category requiring referral to psychologists, while others receive psychological first aid and recreational activities. The programme also addresses trauma from the 1992 earthquake and tsunami, providing stabilisation exercises and disaster preparedness education.

Equipping Students with Digital Literacy, BSI Explore Karangpakis Holds Healthy Internet Training

Students from Bina Sarana Informatika University (UBSI) Purwokerto, part of the BSI Explore 2026 team in Karangpakis Village, Cilacap Regency, held a healthy internet training session for primary school pupils. The programme aimed to teach children in grades IV and V how to use the internet positively for learning and creativity while understanding digital ethics and responsibility. The initiative reflects growing awareness of the need for digital literacy education from an early age.

Indonesia urges forest permit holders to scale up fire safeguards

Indonesia's forestry ministry has called on forest concession holders to strengthen wildfire prevention and response measures, warning that those failing to act decisively during extreme weather could be deemed negligent. Director General Laksmi Wijayanti stressed that permit holders must go beyond mandatory reporting and implement tangible actions such as early detection systems and rapid response capabilities. The forestry entrepreneurs association has pledged support through shared deployment of firefighting equipment and personnel.

Education Ministry distributes Rp305 million to teachers and students affected by NTT earthquake

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has distributed Rp305 million in compensation to teachers and students affected by the Flores earthquake in Ngada and Nagekeo regencies, East Nusa Tenggara. The funds include death benefits for one teacher and three students, as well as support for those injured. Minister Abdul Mu'ti visited affected schools to offer encouragement and praise the resilience of teachers continuing their duties.

Video: Indonesia Exports Fertiliser, Pupuk Indonesia Guarantees Fertiliser Security for Farmers

Pupuk Indonesia, under the oversight of Danantara, has reported positive business performance following its transformation, producing around 14.8 million tonnes annually to meet subsidised fertiliser needs. The government has shifted the subsidy scheme from 'cost plus' to 'marked to market' to ensure quality and fair pricing for farmers. The company is also expanding into petrochemicals, low-emission ammonia, and export markets to build new growth sources.

Prabowo Arrives in Bali Ahead of 100 GW Solar Power Programme Launch

President Prabowo Subianto has arrived in Jembrana, Bali, to officiate the groundbreaking of the first phase of Indonesia's 100 GWp solar power programme. The initiative aims to strengthen national energy independence and reduce reliance on fossil fuels, with completion targeted by 2029. The government estimates the programme will deliver annual electricity cost savings of Rp73.9 trillion.

Strongest El Niño in a Century Looms: Can Asia Meet Its Food Needs?

A potentially record-strength El Niño threatens agricultural production and food security across Asia, including Indonesia. The phenomenon could disrupt rainfall patterns, reduce harvests, and drive up commodity prices. FAO data and satellite monitoring are being used to map high-risk areas and guide early interventions.

90 personnel deployed to extinguish fire that destroyed 40 buildings in East Jakarta

A major fire swept through a densely populated settlement in Duren Sawit, East Jakarta, destroying 40 buildings and affecting 84 residents. The East Jakarta Fire and Rescue Service deployed 90 personnel and 18 fire engines to bring the blaze under control. No casualties were reported, and the cause of the fire remains under investigation.

US and South Korea Strengthen Cooperation to Address North Korean Nuclear Threat

The United States and South Korea have agreed to maintain close communication and cooperation on North Korea's nuclear programme, aiming to foster lasting peace on the Korean Peninsula. The agreement was reached during a phone call between US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun. Both sides also discussed strengthening bilateral economic and security ties.

Wells Dry Up, Jambi Residents Rely on Spring Amidst Palm Oil Plantation

Residents of Danau Embat and Terusan villages in Batang Hari, Jambi, are turning to a spring located within a palm oil plantation after a three-week dry spell caused their wells to run dry. The spring has become a crucial alternative water source for drinking, washing, and other daily needs. The situation highlights the vulnerability of rural communities to water scarcity during prolonged dry seasons.

DSI Officially Operational, Rosan Guarantees No Disruption to Exporter-Buyer Relations

Danantara Indonesia CEO Rosan Roeslani has confirmed that the newly operational PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia (DSI) will not disrupt existing commercial relationships between exporters and buyers. DSI, which began active operations on 1 June 2026, will initially focus on coal, crude palm oil, and ferroalloy, commodities with combined export values approaching US$70 billion. Rosan emphasised that implementation will be phased and measured to ensure trade flows remain uninterrupted.

OJK Urges Public to Remain Calm Over Transaction Hold on AMPB Coordinator's Account

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has called for public calm regarding the temporary hold on a bank account belonging to Supriyono, coordinator of the Pati United Community Alliance (AMPB). The OJK emphasised that customer funds remain safe and protected by the state, while police clarified the action was a temporary transaction hold under anti-money laundering laws, not a seizure. The account, containing Rp80.9 million in personal funds and protest donations, is expected to regain full access after a five-working-day investigation period.

Cooperatives Ministry, Agriculture Ministry, and LPDB Strengthen National Sugar Ecosystem from Cooperatives

The Cooperatives Ministry, Agriculture Ministry, and the Revolving Fund Management Agency (LPDB) are collaborating to strengthen the national sugar industry ecosystem through farmer cooperatives. The initiative includes technical guidance and financing support for sugarcane farmer cooperatives, with PT PG Rajawali I acting as the offtaker. The programme aims to improve cooperative governance, increase productivity, and support Indonesia's goal of self-sufficiency in both consumption and industrial sugar.

Spain to set up integrated response centre to handle migration crisis in Ceuta

Spain's Economy Minister Carlos Cuerpo has announced the government will establish an integrated response centre to coordinate efforts in addressing the migration crisis in Ceuta. The move follows a large influx of migrants from Morocco, with around 10,000 still remaining in the North African enclave. The new body will be led by senior government figures and is intended to improve coordination between agencies.

Tito Bans Land Clearing by Burning, Mardani: Involve the Community

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian has issued an instruction prohibiting all regional heads from clearing land by burning, with no exceptions including for customary practices. PKS politician Mardani Ali Sera has called for adequate personnel, budget, and community involvement to ensure the instruction is effective. He also stressed the need for coordination between central government, regional governments, and the public to prevent a larger disaster.

Observer: Requesting clarification from prospective suspects is important

A legal expert from the Islamic University of Indonesia has emphasised the importance of seeking clarification from prospective suspects before formally naming them as suspects, citing due process and human rights principles. Wahyu Priyanka Nata Permana made the remarks in response to the case involving former Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah. He also questioned the issuance of the investigation order and called for improvements to the pretrial mechanism.

OJK Explains the Rp80.9 Million Account Belonging to AMPB Coordinator Supriyono, Urges Public to Do This

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has responded to public concern over the temporary suspension of a bank account belonging to Supriyono, coordinator of the Pati United Community Alliance (AMPB). The OJK emphasised that such measures are a form of protection rather than a threat, and that customer funds remain safe and guaranteed by the Indonesia Deposit Insurance Corporation (LPS). The authority also urged the public to remain calm and understand that transaction holds are temporary and will be lifted once investigations conclude.

Fire in Duren Sawit, East Jakarta, Destroys Several Rented Houses

A fire broke out in the Duren Sawit area of East Jakarta, destroying several rented houses and market stalls. Firefighters deployed 18 units and 90 personnel to tackle the blaze, which affected an area of 400 to 600 square metres. No casualties were reported as residents managed to evacuate safely.

China says its cooperation with Iran should not be disrupted

China has stated that its cooperation with Iran is lawful and should not face interference, following new US sanctions targeting Iranian economic networks. A foreign ministry spokesperson said Beijing is monitoring the situation and will take necessary measures to protect its rights and interests.

Brimob Patrol in East Jakarta, Seize 2 Motorcycles from Youths Without Complete Documents

A joint patrol by Brimob and East Jakarta Police seized two motorcycles from youths found without complete documentation during an early morning operation in Pulogadung. The patrol was part of enhanced routine activities aimed at preventing crime and maintaining public order. Police urged residents to carry proper vehicle documents and for parents to supervise their children during vulnerable hours.

Agricultural Waste Utilisation as Renewable Energy Source Continues to Be Strengthened

PT PLN Energi Primer Indonesia is intensifying efforts to convert agricultural waste and residues into biomass for power generation, integrating the agricultural and energy sectors into a single value chain. The initiative has been recognised with the FSII Innovation Award 2026 for its leadership in accelerating biomass development to support the national energy transition. The programme aims to create a circular economy, provide new income streams for farmers, and contribute to Indonesia's Net Zero Emissions target.

Police Arrest Underwear Thief in Tabanan, Victim Forgives Him

Police in Tabanan, Bali, have arrested a 20-year-old man identified as MIF for stealing women's underwear from a house in Dauh Peken village. The suspect admitted to the theft, which was captured on CCTV and went viral on social media, saying he acted to satisfy his lust. Following mediation at the Tabanan police station, the victim accepted his apology and both parties agreed to settle the matter amicably.

Organisers say network security is key to robot competition

Organisers of the World Humanoid Robot Games in Beijing have highlighted network and information security as critical to the event's success. China Unicom is providing dedicated 5G network slices to ensure stable robot communications, while Huawei sees networks becoming essential infrastructure for the AI era. Huawei also noted its deepening 5G cooperation with Indonesian operators Telkomsel, Indosat and XL.

East Manggarai Deputy Regent: No Pressure in Earthquake Aid Distribution

The East Manggarai Regency Government has denied allegations that the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) pressured a district head during the distribution of earthquake relief supplies. Deputy Regent Tarsisius Sjukur said an internal review found no coercion in the signing of handover documents, and BNPB officials emphasised that aid distribution followed established coordination mechanisms.

Government Once Taxed Urine, Beards and Heads: Violators Were Imprisoned

Throughout history, governments have imposed taxes on unusual objects, including urine, beards, heads and fingernails. In ancient Rome, urine was taxed because of its ammonia content, while in Russia Peter the Great levied a beard tax to encourage Westernisation. In colonial Batavia, Chinese residents were subject to head and nail taxes, with non-payment punishable by imprisonment and fines.

Bringing Skills Home from Taiwan, BRI Peduli Helps Indonesian Migrant Workers Level Up as Entrepreneurs

State-owned bank BRI, through its CSR arm BRI Peduli, has launched an entrepreneurship academy for Indonesian migrant workers in Taiwan, offering practical training in culinary arts and beauty skills. The programme aims to equip participants with marketable skills and business knowledge to build sustainable livelihoods upon returning to Indonesia. BRI says the initiative is part of a broader roadmap to help diaspora workers convert remittances into productive assets and enterprises.

Pakistan holds productive dialogue with Iran over conflict with US

Pakistan's Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Army Chief Asim Munir met with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to discuss resolving the Iran-US conflict and reviving the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding. Pakistan expressed hope that progress in the talks could pave the way for lasting peace in the region. The meeting comes amid ongoing tensions between Tehran and Washington, with the US applying economic pressure on Iran.

UNM Discusses WhatsApp Apprenticeship, Opens Opportunities for Students to Enter Industry via IEP 3+1

Universitas Nusa Mandiri (UNM) is exploring an apprenticeship partnership with WhatsApp to give students practical industry experience in fields such as supply chain management, human resources, and business development. The initiative aligns with UNM's Internship Experience Program (IEP) 3+1, which allows students to study for three years and spend one year interning in industry. Both parties will now coordinate on position requirements, selection mechanisms, and cooperation documents.

Six Months of US-Iran War: 20 Killed in 68 Incidents in the Strait of Hormuz

The International Maritime Organization has recorded 68 incidents in the Strait of Hormuz since the US and Israel attacked Iran in late February, resulting in 20 deaths and 30 injuries. Around half of the incidents involved oil tankers, with Liberian-flagged vessels the most affected. Iran, which hopes to retain control of the strait after the war and impose passage fees, has warned ships against using alternative routes.

OJK Investigates Transaction Hold on AMPB Coordinator Supriyono's Account

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) is investigating the temporary hold placed on the bank account of Supriyono, coordinator of the Pati United Community Alliance (AMPB), to ensure compliance with banking regulations. The account, containing Rp80.9 million, was subject to a five-day transaction suspension requested by Jakarta Metropolitan Police investigators under anti-money laundering laws. OJK has pledged to take firm supervisory action if any violations are found and to ensure the customer's access is restored after the evaluation period.

Highlighting Febrie Adriansyah Case, Observer: There Should Be an Examination of the Suspect Candidate First

A legal observer from the Islamic University of Indonesia has questioned the procedure used to name former Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah as a corruption and money laundering suspect. Wahyu Priyanka Nata Permana argues that examining a suspect candidate before naming them is important to uphold due process and avoid unfair prejudice. He suggests that failure to follow proper procedure could render the suspect designation invalid if challenged through a pretrial motion.

Dedi Mulyadi Denies Rumour of Moving from Gerindra to PSI

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has dismissed speculation that he is planning to leave the Gerindra Party for the Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI). The former Purwakarta regent described the rumour as sudden and unfounded, reaffirming his current position as deputy chairman of Gerindra's Board of Trustees. A senior Gerindra official in West Java also confirmed that no such move had ever been part of Dedi's plans.

Observer: NU Must Keep Its Distance from Ruling Groups

Political observer Ujang Komarudin has urged Nahdlatul Ulama to maintain its independence as Indonesia's largest socio-religious organisation and avoid being co-opted by political power. He argued that NU's strategic position means its organisational conduct significantly affects national stability, and called for a 'New NU' movement focused on social, economic and religious empowerment. The remarks come ahead of the 35th NU Congress scheduled for late August 2026 in Jombang.

House of Representatives and East Kalimantan Provincial Government Optimise Upstream Oil and Gas Potential in Mahakam

Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission XII and the East Kalimantan Provincial Government are working together to ensure the Mahakam Block's upstream oil and gas sector delivers optimal benefits for the region. The working visit focused on production oversight, efforts to boost national lifting capacity, and the realisation of a 10 percent participating interest for producing regions. Stakeholders also emphasised the importance of regulatory certainty for the distribution of oil and gas revenue-sharing funds.

House Commission III Chairman Says Asset Forfeiture Bill Targeted for Enactment in December This Year

House of Representatives Commission III is accelerating deliberation of the Asset Forfeiture Bill, with a target for enactment by the December 2026 plenary session. Chairman Habiburokhman said only about eight effective sitting weeks remain after recess periods. Public consultation has been extensive, with most respondents supporting the bill while urging careful drafting to prevent abuse of power by law enforcement.

Supporting the Halal Industry, Ministry of Industry Encourages Metal SMEs to Supply Slaughtering Equipment for Abattoirs

Indonesia's Ministry of Industry is fostering partnerships between metal small and medium enterprises and abattoirs to expand market access and strengthen the halal industry ecosystem. The initiative includes product development assistance and collaboration with industry associations to align SME output with abattoir requirements. With over 1,600 abattoirs nationwide, the programme aims to position local manufacturers as primary suppliers for the domestic market.

Blora Police Detain Three Suspects in Police Assault at Independence Day Carnival

Police in Blora, Central Java, have named and detained three suspects following the assault of two officers during an Independence Day carnival. The incident occurred as officers attempted to break up a brawl between residents of two hamlets in Ngawen district. The suspects face ongoing legal proceedings as police continue to investigate possible additional perpetrators.

Drought Hits 96 Percent of Regions in West Java

Drought and clean water shortages have spread across 26 of West Java's 27 regencies and cities, affecting over 588,000 residents in 189 villages. The Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) and partner institutions have distributed more than 13 million litres of clean water to affected communities. Officials are urging residents to conserve water as the dry season is expected to continue.

Coalition of the Willing vows to strengthen Ukraine's air defence

Members of the Coalition of the Willing have pledged to increase military support for Ukraine, with air defence systems identified as an urgent priority. The commitment was made following a meeting in Kyiv attended by Ukrainian leaders and joined remotely by French President Emmanuel Macron and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Russia maintains that arms supplies to Ukraine hinder conflict resolution and directly involve NATO countries in the war.

LPDB Strengthens Cooperative Role Through Revolving Fund Distribution and Mentoring

The Revolving Fund Management Institution (LPDB) for Cooperatives is highlighting the success of KSPPS BMT Tunas Harapan Syantara in East Lombok as a model for sustainable business ecosystems. Supported by LPDB financing and mentoring, the sharia cooperative has built a closed-loop ecosystem connecting fish farmers, feed distributors, and collectors, while also expanding its assets from Rp10 billion to Rp18 billion. The initiative demonstrates how revolving funds can deliver broader economic impact when managed by cooperatives with sound governance and innovative service models.

Umroh Platform Partners with BPKH Limited to Strengthen Digital Hajj and Umroh Ecosystem

Indonesian umroh platform Umrohin has signed a memorandum of understanding with BPKH Limited, a Makkah-based subsidiary of the Hajj Financial Management Agency, to build an integrated digital ecosystem for hajj and umroh services. The collaboration aims to improve connectivity between Indonesian industry players and Saudi service providers, covering transport, logistics, and digital innovation. The agreement is an initial understanding, with binding commercial terms to be detailed in a subsequent cooperation agreement.

Cassa aircraft skids off runway at Hasanuddin Airport on Tuesday afternoon

A Cassa aircraft, believed to belong to the Indonesian military, skidded off the runway at Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport in Maros, South Sulawesi. Airport officials confirmed the incident and said personnel were handling the situation. This marks the second runway incident in two days, following a Sukhoi fighter jet skidding off a different runway the previous day.

Deputy Minister encourages wellness as new opportunity for economic growth

Deputy Minister of Creative Economy Irene Umar has highlighted wellness as a promising growth area for Indonesia's creative economy, citing rising health-conscious lifestyles and the potential of local products such as jamu. She made the remarks in connection with the Festival Merah Putih, which showcases creative subsectors through the pillars of 'Raga', 'Rasa', and 'Raya'. The festival is intended to strengthen the local creative ecosystem and engage younger generations.

Fire in Duren Sawit Destroys 40 Buildings, 84 People Affected

A major fire swept through a residential area on Jalan Pendidikan Raya VI in Duren Sawit, East Jakarta, destroying at least 40 buildings and leaving 84 people homeless. The blaze, which occurred on Tuesday morning, is believed to have started in an empty house, with witnesses noting that the semi-permanent structures and a habit of burning rubbish in the area contributed to the rapid spread. No fatalities were reported, and fire crews remained on site to cool the area and prevent further spread.

Nusa Mandiri University's 3+1 Internship Programme: Three Years of Study, Direct Industry Absorption

Universitas Nusa Mandiri has introduced an Internship Experience Programme (IEP) 3+1, allowing students to complete three years of academic study followed by one year of professional internship. The programme is supported by more than 300 partner companies, both national and multinational. The university aims to equip graduates with practical skills, professional networks, and industry experience to improve their employability.

Six Companies in Kalimantan Sanctioned by Forestry Ministry over Repeated Forest and Land Fires

Indonesia's Ministry of Forestry has imposed administrative sanctions on six forest utilisation permit holders in Kalimantan after repeated forest and land fires were detected in their concession areas, with total burned land reaching 1,511.55 hectares. The companies are required to improve their fire control systems and restore affected areas, including hydrological rehabilitation on peatlands. The sanctions range from government coercion orders to suspension of business permits.

OJK Steps In to Investigate Delay of Rp80.9 Million Account Transaction of AMPB's Supriyono

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) is investigating the delayed transaction of a bank account belonging to Supriyono, coordinator of the Pati United Community Alliance (AMPB), which holds Rp80.9 million. The regulator is verifying whether the bank's actions complied with anti-money laundering regulations and has pledged supervisory measures if violations are found. OJK is also coordinating with the bank to resolve the matter and restore account access once the review is complete.

Residents hold various traditions to commemorate Prophet Muhammad's birthday across Indonesia

Communities across Indonesia marked Maulid Nabi Muhammad SAW 1448 Hijriah with distinctive local traditions on Tuesday. In Madiun, East Java, around 1,000 participants joined the Grebeg Maulid procession carrying Gunungan Jaler and Gunungan Estri filled with produce and traditional cakes. Meanwhile, Tangerang in Banten continued its Ngarak Perahu tradition dating back to 1939, and Bogor in West Java held a dongdang parade as an expression of gratitude and devotion.

Police Clarify AMPB Account Transaction Suspension Lasts Only Five Working Days

Polda Metro Jaya has clarified that the suspension of transactions on accounts used by the Aliansi Masyarakat Pati Bersatu (AMPB) is limited to five working days and does not constitute seizure or freezing. The police emphasised that funds remain safe and will be fully accessible to the account holder once the suspension period ends. Investigators are coordinating with the OJK and Ministry of Social Affairs to examine the purpose of the fundraising.

Two Assailants in Karangasem Beating Named as Suspects

Police in Manggis, Karangasem, have named two of three individuals as suspects in the beating of a young man that went viral on social media. The suspects face charges under Article 262 paragraph (2) of the Criminal Code, carrying a maximum sentence of seven years. A third person was released after being deemed only a witness.

The Charm of Tabebuya Flowers: A Japanese Spring Sensation in Indonesian Cities

Tabebuya trees are blooming across several major Indonesian cities, creating scenery reminiscent of Japan's spring season. The flowering trees, which originate from Brazil, have appeared along major roads in Jakarta, Semarang, and Cianjur. Local authorities note that tabebuya is often mistaken for sakura due to its similar appearance when in bloom.

BPBD: Rain in Kulawi and Pipikoro reduces forest fire potential in Sigi

The Sigi Regency Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) has reported that rainfall in the Kulawi, South Kulawi, and Pipikoro districts is helping to reduce the risk of forest and land fires. No fire incidents have been recorded in these areas during the current dry season and El Niño phenomenon. However, several other districts in Sigi remain exposed to extreme heat.

Geely recalls over 74,000 Lynk & Co cars due to LiDAR issues

Geely is recalling 74,037 Lynk & Co vehicles in China due to potential defects in LiDAR sensing units that could compromise driver assistance safety features. The recall covers models produced between January and December 2025 and represents roughly half of the brand's total sales for those models during the year. The faulty LiDAR units were supplied by Robosense, a Geely partner whose products are also used in Zeekr and Galaxy vehicles.

Thailand targets 5 percent tourism revenue growth in 2027

The Tourism Authority of Thailand has unveiled its 2027 marketing plan, aiming for at least 5 percent growth in tourism revenue and a 60:40 visitor distribution between primary and secondary cities. The strategy shifts focus from visitor numbers to quality, value, and long-term competitiveness under the theme 'The Year of Transformation'. The government also plans to form a joint public-private committee to develop Thailand as a year-round destination.

Indonesian Navy Aircraft Skids Off Runway at Hasanuddin Airport Makassar

An Indonesian Navy Cassa aircraft skidded off the runway at Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport in Maros, South Sulawesi, on Tuesday. Airport authorities confirmed the incident occurred on runway 03-21 and said operations continued normally using the east-west runway. This marks the second military aircraft incident at the airport in two days, following a Sukhoi fighter jet skidding off the runway on Monday.

Vela Prima Nusantara Unveils Full-Scale Alpha Prototype Aircraft

PT Vela Prima Nusantara has unveiled the full-scale prototype of its Alpha aircraft at Heli Expo Asia 2026 in Jakarta, positioning Indonesia as a pioneer in Advanced Air Mobility manufacturing in Southeast Asia. The company has secured 160 Letters of Intent and signed a memorandum of understanding with Whitesky Aviation for 50 units. Vela Aero targets a maiden flight in Q4 2026 and Design Organization Approval Class D certification by the end of the year, with entry into service planned for early 2029.

Junior High School Student in Pemalang Dies After Alleged Bullying at School, Police Name Child in Conflict with the Law

A Year 7 student in Pemalang, Central Java, has died after allegedly being subjected to violence on four separate occasions at his school since July 2026. Police have named a Year 8 student at the same school as a child in conflict with the law (ABH). The case is being handled under Indonesia's juvenile justice system, with the suspect facing charges under the Child Protection Law.

Houthi group claims attack on oil tanker in Red Sea

Yemen's Houthi movement has claimed responsibility for a ballistic missile strike on a Saudi-owned oil tanker in the Red Sea off the port of Yanbu. The group also reported separate attacks on a Saudi military convoy and troop concentrations near the border. The claims come amid an escalating campaign of maritime and cross-border strikes linked to the Houthi-imposed blockade on Saudi-affiliated shipping.

Fire destroys 40 buildings in Duren Sawit, East Jakarta

A fire in a residential area of Duren Sawit, East Jakarta, destroyed 40 buildings, including 39 semi-permanent structures and one permanent house. No fatalities were reported, but around 84 residents have been affected. Authorities noted that illegal waste burning had occurred several times in the area previously.

Yogyakarta city government says 30 Merah Putih cooperatives are already transacting

The Yogyakarta city government reports that 30 of the 45 Merah Putih cooperatives in the city have begun business transactions, representing 70 per cent operational readiness. The remaining 15 cooperatives have established governance structures but have yet to determine their business activities. The government plans to provide mentoring and help develop business plans tailored to each kelurahan's local potential.

Central Java Ready to Welcome National MTQ Delegations, Preparations Reach 90%

Preparations for the 31st National Musabaqah Tilawatil Quran (MTQ) in Central Java have reached 90 percent, with venues, accommodation, transport, security and health services being finalised. The event, scheduled for 12–19 September 2026 in Semarang, is expected to attract thousands of participants and visitors. The provincial government is also leveraging the event to promote Muslim-friendly tourism and boost the local economy through MSME involvement.

Motive in Munil's Fatal Beating in Bantul Suspected to Be Perpetrators' Intoxication

Police in Bantul have examined three suspects in the fatal beating of Triyanto, also known as Munil, and preliminary findings suggest the perpetrators were under the influence of alcohol. One suspect remains at large as investigators continue to determine the exact motive behind the attack. The victim was found dead with multiple injuries in Pringading, Guwosari, Pajangan.

Iranian rial plunges to record low as US prepares new sanctions

The Iranian rial has fallen to a record low of 2.02 million per US dollar on the open market, hours before Washington announced a fresh wave of sanctions aimed at further isolating Tehran. The currency has been under sustained pressure since the joint US-Israeli strikes in late February, with the nearly six-month conflict increasingly weighing on Iran's economy. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent warned of an 'Economic D-Day' for Iran, targeting five key sectors including digital assets, technology, gold, aviation, and shipping.

Prabowo Visits Bali, Police Implement Traffic Management

President Prabowo Subianto is visiting Bali to attend the launch and groundbreaking of a solar power plant project in Gilimanuk, Jembrana. The Bali Regional Police have prepared traffic management measures and deployed hundreds of personnel to secure the presidential entourage. Security is being coordinated with the Presidential Security Force and the Indonesian National Armed Forces.

27 August Demonstration Will Not Automatically Weaken Rupiah and JCI

Market participants are unlikely to react strongly to the planned 27 August protest unless it escalates into violence or major disruption, according to an economist. Attention remains focused on external factors such as the US dollar, global sentiment, and capital flows rather than the demonstration itself.

Government quality, capability set successful nations apart in a contested world: Chan Chun Sing

Singapore's Coordinating Minister for Public Services Chan Chun Sing emphasised that government quality and capability will increasingly determine national success amid a weakening rules-based international order. Speaking at the inaugural Singapore-Vietnam Strategic Dialogue, he highlighted the importance of policy consistency, public trust, and leadership development for economic competitiveness and social cohesion. The dialogue also saw both countries sign agreements on executive education and technology connectivity, deepening their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

Gerindra Unaffected by Talk of Early 2029 Election: Focus on Safeguarding Government Programmes

Gerindra Party spokesman Sugiat Santoso has dismissed speculation about an early 2029 general election raised by Projo chairman Budi Arie Setiadi. Sugiat said the party is focused on supporting President Prabowo Subianto's programmes and considers any discussion of the 2029 election premature. Budi Arie had earlier suggested his political instinct pointed to a possible acceleration of the electoral timetable.

Prabowo orders permits to be revoked for firms linked to Indonesia forest fires

President Prabowo Subianto has ordered the revocation of business permits for any corporation suspected of involvement in forest and land burning, as fires across Sumatra and Kalimantan have burned approximately 85,000 hectares and caused transboundary haze in Malaysia and Singapore. He also directed authorities to respond immediately to emerging hotspots, construct boreholes in fire-prone areas, and strengthen public education to prevent deliberate burning. The government is deploying satellite monitoring, water bombing helicopters, and weather modification operations to combat the fires.

Beware of Drained Accounts! ToxicPanda Can Turn Transparent to Steal PINs

A new version of the ToxicPanda Android banking malware has been discovered with significantly expanded capabilities, now targeting over 140 banking and crypto apps across 16 countries. The malware uses Android accessibility services and transparent overlays to steal PINs and credentials, and can even change a device's lock screen password. Researchers warn that attackers are now using Amazon AWS cloud infrastructure to distribute the malware.

Mobile Service Drive: Dukcapil Issues 358 Documents After NTT Earthquake

The Ministry of Home Affairs' civil registry (Dukcapil) has deployed mobile service teams to West Manggarai following the 7.7 magnitude earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. On the first day, 358 civil documents were issued, including electronic ID cards, family cards, and birth certificates. The government has also provided technical equipment such as Starlink internet and portable recording devices to ensure services continue despite damage to local offices.

Ministry of Forestry Requires PBPH Holders to Take Extra Measures in Handling Forest and Land Fires

Indonesia's Ministry of Forestry has instructed holders of Forest Utilisation Business Permits (PBPH) to strengthen their forest and land fire prevention and control measures ahead of potential extreme weather caused by El Nino in 2026-2027. The ministry warned that relying on business-as-usual practices during extreme weather could be considered negligence. An initial evaluation found that around 10 percent of PBPH holders still need to improve their reporting compliance on fire preparedness.

Venezuela Earthquake Death Toll Reaches 6,509

The death toll from the devastating earthquake that struck Venezuela in June has risen to 6,509, according to the latest figures released by the President of the National Assembly. More than 226,000 survivors have received medical treatment, while rescue teams have evacuated over 6,400 people alive from the rubble. The government has committed to providing housing for displaced families, with more than 4,000 homes and apartments targeted for completion by the end of the year.

Public Urged to View Dispute in Full, Not Draw Conclusions from Social Media

A legal representative for businesswoman Sari Pramono has urged the public not to rush to judgement over a shop rental dispute in Tebet, South Jakarta, based solely on social media posts. The representative stated that the deposit has been returned and penalties waived as a gesture of good faith, while clarifying that Sari Pramono is not a legislator or public official.

Singapore warns of haze risk as hotspots increase

Singapore's National Environment Agency has warned that air quality may deteriorate this week due to a rise in hotspots and haze activity in the region. Dry conditions are expected to persist, with winds from the south or southeast potentially bringing occasional haze to the city-state.

OJK urges public to remain calm over AMPB account transaction suspension

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has called for public calm following the temporary suspension of a bank account belonging to a civil society coordinator. The regulator stressed that customer funds remain safe and protected under banking law and the deposit insurance scheme. Police clarified that the action was a temporary transaction suspension under anti-money laundering legislation, not a permanent account freeze.

Prabowo Launches 100 GW Solar Power Program

President Prabowo Subianto has launched Indonesia's 100 GWp solar power programme, beginning with 14 projects worth Rp135 trillion. The initiative aims to strengthen energy independence, cut reliance on fossil fuels, and save an estimated Rp73.9 trillion annually in electricity costs. The government also plans to retire 13 GW of diesel-fired plants in 2026 while expanding renewable infrastructure and supporting domestic solar manufacturing.

West Bandung ASN TikTok Live Case Concluded: Inspectorate Recommends Transfer

The West Bandung Inspectorate has completed its investigation into a civil servant who went live on TikTok during working hours, finding a disciplinary violation. The controversial '1 percent fee' discussion was determined to be a private conversation about notary services, unrelated to government projects. The Inspectorate has recommended the employee be transferred from the Public Works and Spatial Planning Office as a coaching measure.

South Kalimantan 'Ablaze', BMKG Detects 473 Hotspots

The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has detected 473 hotspots across South Kalimantan, with the highest concentrations in Hulu Sungai Selatan, Tapin and Banjar regencies. Most hotspots are categorised as moderate confidence, while nearly all districts are under a red alert for forest and land fires. The situation indicates a very high danger level for fires across the province.

Berau Regency Government conducts weather modification operation until Friday to prevent forest fires spreading

The Berau Regency Government in East Kalimantan is carrying out a weather modification operation (OMC) using a Cessna 208 Caravan aircraft to induce rainfall and prevent forest and land fires from spreading. The operation, which began on Monday evening, is scheduled to run until Friday, with salt seeding flights conducted twice daily. As of 24 August 2026, Berau has recorded 169 forest and land fires affecting approximately 386 hectares of forest and plantation land.

Three Forest and Land Fire Suspects Arrested in Banu Ayu Village

Police in East Ogan Komering Ulu have arrested three men suspected of setting fires on land belonging to PT Musi Hutan Persada. The suspects were tracked down after a monitoring tower detected a hotspot and a suspicious vehicle was seen stopping at the location shortly before the blaze. They face charges under the Forestry Law and the Job Creation Law.

Immigration Office Uncovers Human Trafficking Scheme Using 'Mail-Order Bride' Modus, Victims Promised Rp70 Million

The Depok Immigration Office has uncovered an alleged human trafficking operation involving arranged marriages with foreign nationals. A married couple was arrested on suspicion of recruiting women to be sent to China under the guise of marriage, with victims promised a dowry of Rp70 million. The case has been handed over to Depok Police for further investigation.

OJK investigates transaction suspension on account of AMPB coordinator

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) is investigating the suspension of transactions on a bank account belonging to Supriyono, coordinator of the Pati United Community Alliance (AMPB). The OJK has stated it will take supervisory action if any violations are found and is coordinating with the bank to resolve the matter. The suspension, which was requested by police investigators, is distinct from an account freeze and is limited to five working days under anti-money laundering regulations.

Hoping for Rain Amid the Haze, Palembang Residents Hold Istisqa Prayer

Residents of Palembang, South Sumatra, held an Istisqa prayer to ask for rain as haze from forest and land fires blanketed the city. The prayer was organised by the South Sumatra provincial government as a spiritual effort to address the worsening air quality. Authorities also used the occasion to urge the public to protect the environment and take health precautions during the dry season.

DSET: Indonesia needs to strengthen global technology supply chain connections

A Taiwan-based research institute has urged Indonesia to deepen its integration with global technology and semiconductor supply chains to move towards higher-value economic segments. Talent development, particularly through semiconductor education and training programmes in Taiwan, is identified as a concrete area for cooperation. Expanding economic and technology partnerships with Taiwan, Japan, Europe, and the United States is also seen as key to strengthening Indonesia's economic resilience.

Domestic Gas Optimisation Hampered by Infrastructure and Market Certainty

Indonesia's substantial gas reserves remain underutilised for domestic needs due to infrastructure gaps, price structures, and uncertain market absorption. Industry practitioners argue that integrated infrastructure development and guaranteed demand are essential to make gas projects economically viable. The upcoming 2026 Upstream Oil and Gas Economic Forum (FOREK) is expected to address these challenges by aligning supply sources with demand centres.

Alpa Team targets hard-to-reach hotspots in Way Kambas National Park

The Indonesian Army's Alpa Team has been deployed to tackle inaccessible hotspots in Way Kambas National Park, Lampung, following a direct order from President Prabowo. Thermal drone monitoring has identified remaining heat sources that could reignite, while water bombing and spray drones are being prepared to support ground operations. Recent fires have affected approximately 123 hectares in the Braja Kencana and Braja Luhur areas, with an additional 6.4 hectares detected in Rantau Jaya.

Police Arrest Three Forest and Land Fire Suspects in East Ogan Komering Ulu

Police in East Ogan Komering Ulu, South Sumatra, have arrested three men suspected of starting forest and land fires within a concession area of PT Musi Hutan Persada. The suspects were detained after a patrol team detected a fire hotspot and traced a suspicious vehicle seen near the location. They now face charges under the Forestry Law and the Job Creation Law.

Kyiv Hands Over 'Goldmine' of Intelligence to UK, Kremlin: London Adds Fuel to the Fire

Ukraine has granted the United Kingdom access to its vast repository of real-world battlefield data, collected over years of war with Russia, to train artificial intelligence systems for protecting military bases and critical infrastructure. The partnership, announced during Prime Minister Andy Burnham's first visit to Kyiv, marks the first time Ukraine has shared its Avengers AI Labs data with an international partner. The Kremlin has condemned the move, accusing London of escalating the conflict.

Indonesia Brings Key Agenda to ASEAN Labour Ministers Meeting

Indonesia's Manpower Minister Yassierli is attending the 29th ASEAN Labour Ministers Meeting in Bangkok to advocate for stronger skills development and worker protection. The Indonesian delegation will push for regional cooperation on preparing workers for technological change and safeguarding migrant workers. The agenda aligns with ASEAN's declaration on promoting competitiveness and resilience of workers for the future of work.

Glowing twilight, empowered elderly (part 1)

Indonesia is entering an ageing society, with the proportion of elderly citizens projected to keep rising. Optimising productive and independent older people is seen as key to securing a second demographic dividend towards 2045. The article highlights the need for inclusive policies and empowerment programmes, including elderly schools and a dedicated directorate under the Ministry of Manpower, so that the elderly become development assets rather than a social burden.

Police Hunt One More Suspect in Fatal Assault of Munil After Drinking Party in Bantul

Bantul Police are pursuing a fourth suspect in the fatal assault of Triyanto, also known as Munil, whose body was found covered in wounds in Pajangan, Bantul. Three suspects have already been arrested following a drinking party on Saturday. Police have not yet disclosed the motive for the attack.

LPSK explains reasons for granting protection to Ferry Boboho, witness in Febrie Adriansyah case

The Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) has granted protection to FH, a witness in the alleged corruption and money laundering case involving former Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah. The decision was made on 18 August 2026 after considering FH's possession of important information, potential threats, and the seriousness of the case. LPSK hopes the protection will enable FH to testify safely and facilitate the investigation process.

US Tightens Economic Sanctions on Iran, Targeting 5 Vital Sectors and 60 Entities

The United States has expanded its economic sanctions against Iran, targeting five strategic sectors and adding dozens of entities to its blacklist. The move is part of a broader operation announced by the Trump administration to isolate Iran economically. China has criticised the sanctions, warning that economic pressure will only escalate tensions in the Middle East.

Jambi sixth-highest hotspot count, Forestry Minister says weather modification needed to tackle forest fires

Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni has said Jambi remains sixth nationally for hotspot numbers and requires weather modification operations to address the risk of forest and land fires. The minister highlighted Jambi's deep peatlands as a particular concern and confirmed central government support for cloud seeding from 27 to 30 August 2026. He also stressed that law enforcement would act without discrimination against individuals or companies involved in forest burning.

Death toll from Venezuela earthquake reaches 6,509

The death toll from the earthquake that struck Venezuela in June has risen to 6,509, according to the latest figures released by the President of the National Assembly. More than 226,000 survivors have received hospital treatment, while authorities continue to assess damaged buildings and clear construction debris. The government has provided hundreds of new homes and aims to rebuild more than 4,000 residences for affected families by the end of the year.

LPSK Finally Protects Ferry Boboho, Witness in Case of Former Jampidsus Febrie Adriansyah

Indonesia's Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) has decided to grant protection to Ferry Yanto Hongkiriwang, also known as Ferry Boboho, a witness in a corruption and money laundering case linked to former Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah. The decision was made on 18 August 2026 after assessing his position, the information he holds, and potential threats. LPSK cited his cooperation and the importance of his information regarding the Asabri-Jiwasraya cases.

MPR Assessment Body examines decentralisation and regional autonomy issues with UI and IPB experts

The People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) Assessment Body is reviewing the implementation of decentralisation and regional autonomy, focusing on whether constitutional provisions remain fit for purpose. Academics highlighted persistent problems including high regional dependence on central government transfers and weak local bureaucratic capacity. The discussions form part of a broader evaluation of the 1945 Constitution.

UBSI and University Selangor Collaboration Boosts International Community Service

Universitas Bina Sarana Informatika (UBSI) and University Selangor (UNISEL) have conducted a joint international community service programme in Banyumas, Central Java. The initiative aims to strengthen academic collaboration and expand international networks while implementing the tridharma of higher education. Lecturers from three UBSI campuses participated, focusing on developing information technology to meet community needs and supporting local tourism and economic potential.

Minister Orders Stricter Safety Oversight for Transport in Riau Islands, from Fleets to Crew

Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi has instructed stricter safety supervision across land, sea, and air transport in the Riau Islands. The directive, formalised as Ministerial Instruction IM 3 of 2026, requires thorough checks on vehicle, vessel, and aircraft worthiness, crew competence, and operator compliance. The move responds to the region's high transport mobility, particularly in Batam, a key maritime hub.

Iran Urges US to Honour Memorandum of Understanding, Rejects Economic Pressure

Iran's Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has called on the United States to fulfil its obligations under a memorandum of understanding aimed at resolving tensions between the two nations. Speaking in Tehran, Ghalibaf insisted that Washington's economic pressure would have no effect on Iran. Pakistan is acting as mediator in the ongoing diplomatic efforts.

Stable rules key to luring investment, outgoing EU envoy says

Outgoing EU Ambassador Denis Chaibi has urged Indonesia to ensure regulatory stability and reduce trade barriers to attract more European investment ahead of the Indonesia-EU CEPA implementation. He noted that concerns over Indonesia's regulatory environment have deterred some European investors, while wider recognition of European halal certification could facilitate trade. Chaibi also stressed the need for Indonesia to move quickly to capitalise on tariff-free access under the agreement, as competing Southeast Asian economies secure their own preferential deals with the EU.

72 Forest Fire Suspects Arrested, Expert: Pursue the Masterminds Too

A criminal law expert has urged Indonesian police to go beyond arresting field operatives in forest and land fire cases and to investigate those who ordered, financed, or facilitated the burning. The National Police's Criminal Investigation Division has indicated it will trace financial transactions and may coordinate with the financial intelligence unit PPATK to uncover the parties with an interest behind the fires.

Forest and Land Fires 'Besiege' Nusantara Capital City, Buffer Zones Affected

Forest and land fires around Indonesia's new capital city, Nusantara (IKN), have continued to spread, with 470 incidents recorded across East Kalimantan as of 24 August 2026. The affected area totals 1,393.78 hectares, with Penajam Paser Utara and Kutai Kartanegara regencies among the worst hit. Officials attribute the rising number of fires since July to prevailing weather conditions.

KAI Studies KITB Batang Connectivity to Major Ports, Strengthens National Logistics Infrastructure

State railway operator PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) is studying enhanced freight connectivity between the Batang Integrated Industrial Estate (KITB) and major ports including Tanjung Priok, Tanjung Perak, and Patimban. The initiative aims to integrate rail, dry ports, seaports, warehousing, and trucking into a cohesive logistics ecosystem for Central Java. KAI reported carrying 38.6 million tonnes of freight in the first seven months of 2026, underscoring its capacity to support industrial growth.

US Ready to Impose Sanctions on China if It Does Business with Iran

The United States has launched 'Operation Economic Outcast', a new economic pressure campaign aimed at cutting off Iran's vital revenue streams. Washington has issued a stark warning to China and other nations about the risk of secondary sanctions if they continue business ties with Tehran. The move comes amid efforts by President Donald Trump to secure a new deal to end the six-month conflict with Iran.

Sumatra Mobility Continues to Grow, KAI Enhances Interregional Rail Connectivity

State-owned railway operator PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) is expanding rail services in Sumatra in response to rising passenger demand, with the Rajabasa train recording a 32 percent increase in passengers in the first seven months of 2026. The service between Palembang and Bandar Lampung has been upgraded to a larger formation with 848 seats, up from 530, to accommodate growing economic and social activity across the region.

Cipinang Prison hosts barbershop to equip inmates with skills

Cipinang Prison in East Jakarta has launched a barbershop programme to provide inmates with practical skills they can use after release. The initiative is part of the prison's skills development scheme and includes training in barbering techniques, tool handling, and hairstyling. Celebrity chef King Abdi visited the facility and praised the quality of the barbershop service.

Medan Man Steals Motorcycle from Deaf Female Ride-Hailing Driver, Uses Proceeds for Drugs and Prostitution

A 30-year-old man in Medan has been arrested for stealing a motorcycle belonging to a deaf female ride-hailing driver. The suspect sold the vehicle for Rp6.2 million and spent the money on methamphetamine, clothing, a hotel room and commercial sex workers. Police apprehended him after he attempted to flee, and officers shot him in both legs.

LPSK Protects Witness in Corruption Case of Former Jampidsus Febrie Adriansyah

The Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) has granted protection to a key witness in the corruption and money laundering case involving former Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes, Febrie Adriansyah. The decision was made on 18 August 2026 following a request from the Attorney General's Office, citing the witness's crucial information regarding the Asabri-Jiwasraya mega-corruption scandal and potential threats. The protection is based on the new Law No. 3 of 2026 on Witness and Victim Protection.

Strategy to Anticipate El Nino Impact on Food in Banyumas Raya

Bank Indonesia's Purwokerto representative office is coordinating with local governments to mitigate the impact of El Nino on food security in the Banyumas Raya region. The strategy covers upstream to downstream measures, including irrigation optimisation, drought-resistant crop varieties, and market operations to stabilise prices. The meteorology agency has warned of a high probability of low rainfall across Central Java until the end of August.

43,805 Indonesian Workers Laid Off, Labour Unions and Employers Reveal Unexpected Findings

Indonesia's Ministry of Manpower recorded 43,805 layoffs between January and July 2026, with West Java accounting for the highest share. Labour leaders argue the official figures understate the true scale of job losses because they rely on claims from the Job Loss Insurance programme, which covers only a fraction of formal workers. They warn that structural problems in domestic industry and the growth of informal employment mean layoff risks remain high.

Three Named as Suspects in Assault on Ngawen Police Officers During Blora Carnival

Police in Blora, Central Java, have named three suspects and detained them over the assault of two Ngawen Police officers during an Independence Day carnival. The incident occurred when officers attempted to break up a brawl between residents of two hamlets. Investigations are continuing to determine whether additional parties were involved.

Dukcapil Mobile Service Issues 358 Civil Documents in West Manggarai

The Ministry of Home Affairs' civil registry (Dukcapil) has deployed mobile services to West Manggarai following a magnitude 7.7 earthquake, issuing 358 civil documents on the first day. The ministry also provided grants and loans of technical equipment, including Starlink internet and portable recording devices, to ensure uninterrupted public services. All replacement of civil documents for disaster-affected residents is free of charge.

Svadara Warna Indonesia achieves success at BIDC 2026

Svadara Warna Indonesia, a dance studio under the South Jakarta Culture Sub-agency, won a gold medal and an Honorable Mention at the Bandung International Dance Competition 2026. The group presented two traditional dances from East Java and East Kalimantan, involving 31 young dancers. The achievement highlights the studio's commitment to nurturing young talent and promoting Indonesia's cultural heritage.

LPSK Grants Protection to Witness in Case Linked to Febrie Adriansyah

The Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) has approved protection for FH, a witness in a corruption and money laundering case involving former Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah. The decision was based on the importance of the witness's information, particularly regarding the Asabri-Jiwasraya cases, and the potential threats faced. LPSK hopes the protection will ensure the witness can testify safely and aid the investigation.

Legislator Reveals Civil Service Sectors Potentially Replaced by AI

A senior lawmaker has identified administrative, data processing and document management roles within Indonesia's civil service as most vulnerable to automation through artificial intelligence. He cautioned that AI should be viewed as a productivity tool rather than a justification for staff cuts, urging the government to prioritise reskilling and upskilling programmes. The remarks follow a parliamentary hearing where another legislator questioned whether digitalisation would reduce staffing needs in regional offices.

Banjarmasin Tax Corruption Case: KPK Examines Private Witness over Money Flow

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is continuing to trace the flow of funds in an alleged corruption case at the Banjarmasin Medium Tax Office, examining a private sector witness in Jakarta. The case stems from a sting operation and centres on alleged requests for 'appreciation money' in the processing of a VAT restitution claim by PT Buana Karya Bhakti. Investigators have seized assets including US$680,000 in cash, 1.3 kilograms of gold, and Rp100 million in cash.

Armed with Prison Skills, Jajang Earns Rp 12 Million Turnover Selling Animal Feed

A former inmate from Garut Prison in West Java has successfully launched an animal feed business using skills acquired during his rehabilitation. Jajang, 48, earned Rp 12 million in his first month by producing and selling chicken and duck feed to local farmers. His story highlights the effectiveness of prison vocational training programmes in supporting reintegration and reducing stigma.

Bengkulu Bribery Case: KPK Examines PUPR Treasurer Over Rp4 Billion Discovery

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is deepening its investigation into alleged corruption within the Bengkulu City Government, focusing on financial management and procurement at the Public Works and Spatial Planning Agency. Investigators have questioned the agency's treasurer and a division head regarding the origin of Rp4 billion in cash seized from the agency head's residence. The case stems from an earlier sting operation involving bribery in Rejang Lebong Regency.

30 MBG kitchens in remote areas of Batam completed, awaiting central government directive

Thirty of 35 planned nutrition fulfilment service unit (SPPG) kitchens in remote areas of Batam have been completed, though none are yet operational pending central government instruction. The programme prioritises hinterland areas such as Galang, Bulang and Belakang Padang, with several sites expected to serve hundreds of beneficiaries each. Across the Riau Islands, 164 remote-area SPPG kitchens are planned.

Sago and Purple Sweet Potato Turned into Chicken Meat Freshness Indicator

Five students from Universitas Gadjah Mada have developed an edible film indicator called Seftin that detects chicken meat freshness through colour changes. The innovation uses sago starch and anthocyanin extract from purple sweet potato to respond to pH changes on the meat's surface. The team hopes the product will become an affordable commercial standard for objective meat freshness monitoring in Indonesia.

Health Minister BGS Enters Race for WHO Director-General to Succeed Tedros

Indonesian Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin has been nominated as a candidate for Director-General of the World Health Organization, competing against three other prospective candidates from Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Belgium. Sadikin, who has served as health minister since late 2020, brings a background in banking and state-owned enterprises rather than medicine. The nomination marks a significant step for Indonesia's presence in global health governance.

UK Prepares Multinational Military Exercises for Ukraine

British Prime Minister Andy Burnham has announced that a 'coalition of the willing' will soon conduct intensive military exercises in preparation for deploying multinational forces to Ukraine following a future ceasefire. The coalition's headquarters will move to London in the autumn to strengthen coordination. Moscow has reacted sharply, with Russian officials labelling the coalition 'warmongers' and warning that any NATO troop presence in Ukraine is unacceptable.

Forest Fires a Reminder of Islamic Law's Prohibition on Causing Destruction on Earth

Forest fires threatening the environment in Kalimantan serve as a reminder of humanity's duty to protect the earth, according to Islamic teachings. Scholars argue that environmental preservation is an integral part of safeguarding the faith, and that damaging the environment violates the trust placed in humans as stewards of creation. The article draws on the work of Sheikh Yusuf Al-Qaradhawi and Quranic verses to emphasise that environmental destruction is a deviation from the objectives of Islamic law.

232 Forest and Land Fires in Central Java, Up 700 Percent

Central Java has recorded a dramatic 700 percent increase in forest and land fires compared to the same period last year, with 232 incidents burning hundreds of hectares of vegetation and waste disposal infrastructure. The provincial disaster mitigation agency attributes the surge to the peak of the dry season and human negligence, particularly the burning of sugarcane residue. Estimated material losses have reached Rp23 billion across 35 regencies and municipalities.

DIY Regional Government Guarantees It Will Not Ignore Residents Whose Decile Data Misses Out on Social Assistance

The Yogyakarta Special Region administration has pledged not to overlook residents whose welfare decile rankings in the National Socio-Economic Single Data (DTSEN) do not reflect their actual conditions, causing them to lose access to social assistance. The Social Affairs Office is exploring alternative schemes to ensure affected families continue receiving aid while deploying PKH facilitators for factual verification. Residents can also file appeals through the Cek Bansos website or app, or by visiting their local kelurahan.

Jakarta to Have an 18-Metre Deep Underground 'City', Here Is the Location

Jakarta is developing an Extended Concourse, a multi-function underground space near the Hotel Indonesia roundabout, at a depth of 18 metres. The Rp200 billion project faces significant engineering challenges due to discrepancies between as-built drawings and actual underground utility positions. Construction is targeted for completion next year, with coordination efforts underway to minimise disruption in the busy central Jakarta area.

Forestry Ministry Sanctions Six Companies over Forest and Land Fires in Kalimantan

The Ministry of Forestry has imposed administrative sanctions on six forest utilisation permit holders after fires were detected across 1,511.55 hectares of their concessions in West, Central and East Kalimantan. Five companies face government enforcement orders, while PT MPK received a heavier penalty of business permit suspension due to extensive and repeated fires. The ministry emphasised that permit holders bear responsibility for preventing and controlling fires, with criminal proceedings to follow where evidence of offences is found.

Prophet Muhammad's Birthday: Sidkon Djampi Urges Public to Preserve Peace and National Unity

West Java Regional Legislative Council (DPRD) member Sidkon Djampi has called on Indonesians to use the Prophet Muhammad's birthday as a moment to strengthen peace and national unity. The PKB politician emphasised that the Prophet's teachings on compassion, honesty, and wisdom remain relevant in managing Indonesia's diversity. He also urged families, schools, and communities to instil moral values and tolerance in the younger generation.

GIBEI FEB Unsil Opens Path for Students to Enter the Capital Market World

The Investment Gallery of the Indonesia Stock Exchange at Siliwangi University's Faculty of Economics and Business is strengthening capital market education through collaboration between academia and industry. Students not only learn theory but also gain practical experience by opening securities accounts and understanding the investment ecosystem. The initiative aims to bridge classroom learning with real-world practice in Indonesia's financial sector.

Two Ethiopian UN Peacekeepers Killed in Ambush in South Sudan

Two Ethiopian United Nations peacekeepers were killed and seven others wounded when their routine patrol was ambushed by unidentified armed men in Jonglei State, South Sudan. The UN has strongly condemned the attack, with Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urging authorities to identify the perpetrators. The incident highlights the deteriorating security situation in the region, which is further complicated by the ongoing conflict in neighbouring Sudan.

Prabowo Kicks Off 100 GWp Solar Power Plant Development in Bali

President Prabowo Subianto is set to launch and break ground on Indonesia's 100 gigawatt peak (GWp) solar power programme in Jembrana, Bali, as part of the national energy and water independence priority cluster. The programme aims to reduce fossil fuel dependence, with a phased roadmap targeting 30 GWp installed capacity by 2026 and full completion by 2029. The government projects annual electricity cost savings of Rp73.9 trillion and the creation of 1.7 million jobs, including 760,000 green jobs.

Account Blocking at Request of Authorities Deemed to Lack Clear Legal Basis

Koalisi ResponsiBank Indonesia has questioned the legal basis for Bank Mandiri's blocking of an activist's account containing around Rp80.9 million. The coalition argues that citing a request from law enforcement is insufficient without clarity on authority, proportionality, and accountability. It calls for banks to ensure formal validity of such orders and uphold consumer protection obligations.

Ahead of Prabowo's Arrival, Bahlil Inspects Gilimanuk Solar Power Plant Groundbreaking Site

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia inspected the site of the Gilimanuk solar power plant ahead of President Prabowo Subianto's scheduled groundbreaking ceremony. The project, valued at Rp 9.157 trillion, will have a capacity of 300 MWp supported by a 1,000 MWh battery energy storage system. It forms part of a broader 100 GWp solar programme and is expected to reduce fuel oil consumption by 151,000 kilolitres per year.

Man in East Nusa Tenggara Dies After Wife Strikes Him with Shock Absorber Following Death Threat

A man in Timor Tengah Selatan, East Nusa Tenggara, died after his wife struck him repeatedly with a shock absorber following a drunken argument in which he threatened to kill her. Police have detained the woman, who remained at the scene and cooperated with officers. The case highlights recurring domestic violence in the household, according to local police.

UIN academic: Prophet Muhammad's birthday a momentum to strengthen moral education

An academic from UIN Saizu Purwokerto has called for the Prophet Muhammad's birthday commemoration to be used as a momentum to strengthen moral education and exemplary conduct amid increasingly complex societal moral issues. Muridan emphasised that the observance should move beyond ceremony towards behavioural transformation, particularly in families, education, and digital spaces. He highlighted the Prophet's example as relevant for managing differences and fostering respect in contemporary society.

DPR Agrees to Appoint Sarjito as Chief Executive of Mineral Exchange Supervisor, Here Is His Profile

Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission XI has approved Sarjito as Chief Executive of the Mineral and Strategic Commodities Exchange (BMKS) supervisor for 2026-2031. Sarjito presented eight strategic policies aimed at building a liquid and trusted exchange that strengthens Indonesia's market sovereignty. The appointment will be brought to the DPR plenary session on Thursday for formal approval.

Facing Forest Fires and Prolonged Drought, South Kalimantan Provincial Government Holds Istisqa Prayer

The South Kalimantan provincial government, together with district and city administrations, held a mass Istisqa prayer on Tuesday (25/8) to seek divine intervention for rain amid a prolonged dry season and worsening forest and land fires. Governor Muhidin led the event at the Sabilal Muhtadin Grand Mosque in Banjarmasin, attended by around five thousand residents. The prayer comes as thick haze disrupts daily life, with schools and civil service working hours adjusted in Banjarmasin.

ICMI Women Appreciate Defence Minister's Policy Allowing Female Defence University Cadets to Wear Hijab

The women's wing of the Indonesian Association of Muslim Intellectuals (ICMI) has welcomed the Defence Minister's decision to permit female cadets at the Defence University to wear the hijab during their education. The organisation views the policy as a significant step in respecting religious freedom and strengthening diversity within defence education. ICMI also urged the ministry to address internal inconsistencies and ensure the policy is properly implemented on the ground.

Gerindra Legislator Oversees Sekolah Rakyat in Sigi, Inspects Site Directly

Gerindra Party legislator Longki Djanggola visited Sekolah Rakyat SMP 22 Sigi in Central Sulawesi to monitor the government's free school programme for underprivileged children. The permanent school complex in Pombewe Village is targeted to accommodate 2,000 students across primary, junior and senior high levels. Djanggola stressed that the programme must be precisely targeted and that learning quality, facilities and teacher availability are as important as infrastructure.

Blocking of Botok's Account a Form of Administrative Silencing

Amnesty International Indonesia has condemned the blocking of activist Supriyono alias Botok's Bank Mandiri account, calling it a human rights violation and an attempt to silence peaceful protest. Bank Mandiri said the block was requested by law enforcement, while Polda Metro Jaya clarified it only requested a five-day transaction delay for investigation purposes. The account contained around Rp80.9 million in personal funds and public donations for a protest in Jakarta.

Law Minister Urges HMI Cadres to Set Aside Short-Term Interests

Law Minister Supratman Andi Agtas has called on members of the Islamic Students Association (HMI) to put aside short-term interests and animosity for the sake of the nation. Speaking at a national discussion hosted by the HMI alumni corps (KAHMI), he also encouraged the organisation to move beyond case-by-case debates and invited public criticism of his ministry. Supratman highlighted a weekly public complaints forum as part of efforts to build a more transparent and accountable bureaucracy.

KPK Seizes 60 Items of Evidence from Unsoed Rectorate Office in Admission Bribery Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has seized approximately 60 items of evidence from the rector's office at Jenderal Soedirman University (Unsoed) in Purwokerto, Central Java, following an eight-hour search. The seizure is part of an ongoing investigation into alleged corruption in the university's independent student admission pathway. Six suspects have been named, including three Unsoed officials and three private individuals.

Dompet Dhuafa and Musicians Hold Sound of Humanity for NTT, Target Rp 30 Billion in Donations

Dompet Dhuafa, in collaboration with several Indonesian musicians, held a charity concert titled 'Sound of Humanity' in Depok to raise funds for disaster-affected communities in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT). The humanitarian organisation aims to collect up to Rp 30 billion to support both emergency response and long-term recovery efforts. The initiative, which began with a concert in Labuan Bajo, is expected to expand to other cities to broaden public participation.

Gerindra Responds to Budi Arie on Elections: Focus on Safeguarding Prabowo's Programmes

Gerindra spokesperson Sugiat Santoso has dismissed speculation about an early 2029 general election, stating the party is focused on supporting President Prabowo Subianto's programmes. The remarks follow a viral video of Projo chairman Budi Arie Setiadi discussing the possibility of an accelerated election timeline alongside former president Joko Widodo. Projo has clarified that the video was taken out of context from an internal discussion during an Independence Month gathering.

LRT Jakarta to Commence Full Operations Tomorrow

The Kelapa Gading-Manggarai LRT route in Jakarta will begin full operations immediately after its inauguration by President Prabowo Subianto on 26 August 2026. Governor Pramono Anung confirmed that all technical and operational preparations are complete, with services running from 05.00 to 24.00 WIB. The route is projected to carry between 60,000 and 80,000 passengers per day.

Identities of 5 Cars That Broke Through Thamrin-Sudirman CFD to Be Revealed

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has confirmed that the identities of a convoy of five private cars that forced their way through the Car Free Day area on Jalan Sudirman-Thamrin will soon be disclosed. The vehicles reportedly broke through barriers guarded by Satpol PP and police officers on Sunday, 23 August. The provincial government is currently tracing the owners, with indications that some vehicles used special number plates.

Minister Meutya Responds to Mentawai Resident Prosecuted for Selling Starlink Internet Services

Communications and Digital Minister Meutya Hafid has urged a restorative approach in the case of a Mentawai resident prosecuted for providing unlicensed internet services. She noted that while the law must be respected, Sikakap village lacks fibre optic connectivity and relies on a single 4G operator, creating genuine demand for better internet access. The ministry favours guidance and helping residents obtain licences or join licensed ISPs rather than pursuing criminal penalties.

Minister Dudy strengthens transport safety oversight in Riau Islands

Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi has instructed all technical units in the Riau Islands to intensify safety oversight across land, sea, and air transport. The directive, issued as Ministerial Instruction IM 3 of 2026, covers roadworthiness checks, operator compliance, and public education. The minister emphasised the strategic importance of the region and the need to prevent repeat accidents.

KPK Questions Bengkulu PUPR Treasurer Over Rp 4 Billion Found at Noprisman's Home

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has questioned the treasurer of Bengkulu's Public Works and Spatial Planning (PUPR) office regarding Rp 4 billion in cash discovered during a search of the home of the city's PUPR head, Noprisman. The examination is part of an expanded investigation into a corruption case involving the suspended Rejang Lebong Regent, M Fikri Thobari. A second civil servant was also questioned about procurement activities and items found at his residence.

Coalition of the willing to train troops for deployment to Ukraine

British Prime Minister Andy Burnham has announced that the 'coalition of the willing' will conduct military exercises to prepare forces for deployment to Ukraine once a ceasefire is reached. The coalition, comprising more than 30 countries led by the UK and France, will also relocate its headquarters to London in the autumn. Russia has reiterated that any deployment of NATO member troops to Ukraine is unacceptable and risks triggering a sharp escalation.

Chinese Tourist Dies While Snorkelling at Long Pink Beach, Komodo National Park

A Chinese tourist has died after drowning while snorkelling at Long Pink Beach in Komodo National Park, Labuan Bajo. The victim, identified as Zou Huarong, was evacuated to Siloam Hospital but could not be saved. The incident raises concerns about tourist safety in one of Indonesia's premier marine destinations.

Video: Boosting Indonesia's Economy, Rp 35 Trillion in Pindar Funds Flows to MSMEs

CNBC Indonesia and the Indonesian Fintech Lending Association (AFPI) are hosting Fintech Lending Days 2026 to advance the country's digital financing ecosystem. The event brings together regulators, industry players, investors, and strategic partners to foster initiatives and partnerships for the peer-to-peer lending sector. The forum aims to generate tangible impact for the growth of the information technology-based joint funding services industry, known as Pindar.

One Prophet, a Thousand Traditions: Diverse Mawlid Celebrations Around the World

The article explores how the Prophet Muhammad's birthday is commemorated across various countries, highlighting distinct cultural expressions from national holidays in Pakistan to candle processions in Morocco. It details the scale and unique traditions of Mawlid celebrations in Pakistan, Bangladesh, Malaysia, Morocco, Sudan, and Egypt, showing how local customs blend with religious observance.

The Mighty Dhikr Bequeathed by the Prophet Muhammad to More Than 19 Companions

The article discusses the significance of the dhikr 'Lā haula wa lā quwwata illā billāh', which the Prophet Muhammad specifically advised more than 19 of his companions to recite frequently. It explains that this phrase acknowledges a servant's complete dependence on Allah for strength in obedience and avoidance of sin. The dhikr is described as one of the treasures of Paradise and a reminder for Muslims to place their reliance solely on Allah.

Three Days After Divorce, Balinese Man Found Dead Near Ex-Wife's Home in Mataram

A 40-year-old Balinese man was found dead by hanging near his ex-wife's home in Mataram, West Nusa Tenggara, just three days after their divorce. Police said the man had attempted to reconcile but was unable to do so because the divorce was final. Authorities found no signs of violence and believe he died by suicide.

RI's parliament targets asset forfeiture bill passage by Dec 2026

Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission III is aiming to pass the Asset Forfeiture Bill by December 2026, with only about eight effective working weeks remaining after recess periods. The commission has held 35 public hearings and received written submissions from dozens of community groups, most of whom strongly support the bill while urging careful drafting to prevent abuses of power. President Prabowo Subianto has ordered the government to expedite the bill, which has taken longer than other legislation because its concept is new to Indonesia.

IEU CEPA to Be Signed Soon, Indonesian Products to Get 0% Tariff to Europe

Indonesia is finalising preparations for the Indonesia-European Union Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (IEU CEPA), targeted for signing in October 2026. The deal will liberalise around 98% of tariff lines, granting 0% tariffs on key Indonesian exports such as palm oil, textiles, footwear, and rubber products to the EU market of 450 million consumers. The government is coordinating inter-ministerial efforts to complete ratification documents and address regulatory challenges including the EU Deforestation Regulation and Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism.

Police urge public to be discerning when responding to information in digital spaces

The Indonesian National Police have called on the public to carefully verify information circulating online by checking its source, timing, location and context before believing or sharing it. Head of Public Relations Inspector General Johnny Eddizon Isir highlighted the recurring pattern of old videos resurfacing with new narratives. He urged citizens to help maintain a healthy digital environment by being smart, critical and responsible social media users.

NTT Police Name Three TTU DPRD Members Suspects in Intimidation of Doctor Icha

East Nusa Tenggara Police have named three members of the Timor Tengah Utara Regional House of Representatives as suspects in the alleged intimidation of Doctor Eliza Princila Utami Pakaenoni, known as Doctor Icha. The suspects face layered charges carrying up to seven years in prison, with investigators alleging the intimidation caused severe depression that led to the doctor's suicide. The case has already prompted the DPRD's ethics body to suspend the three legislators.

Tabebuya Blooms in Central Jakarta Evoke Japanese Vibes, Residents Say 'Refreshing for the Eyes Amid Traffic'

Tabebuya trees are in full bloom along Jalan Salemba Raya and Jalan Kramat Raya in Central Jakarta, drawing residents to photograph the pink and white blossoms. Locals likened the scenery to Japan's cherry blossom season and expressed hope that more tabebuya trees would be planted across the city to provide visual relief during traffic congestion.

Jakarta Becomes World's Most Populous City: The Impact on Bekasi and Depok

Jakarta's metropolitan area has become the world's most populous urban region with around 42 million residents, according to the UN's World Urbanization Prospects 2025. Urban planning experts warn that satellite cities like Bekasi, Depok, Bogor and Tangerang must evolve into secondary central business districts to reduce commuter dependence on the capital. The population is projected to grow by another 10 million over the next 25 years, intensifying pressure on Greater Jakarta's infrastructure and services.

Canada Prepares Tariff Retaliation, US Economy Threatened with Impact

Canada is preparing retaliatory tariffs against the United States following Washington's imposition of 50 percent duties on Canadian goods worth around 20 billion US dollars. Prime Minister Mark Carney has signalled that countermeasures will begin on 8 September, targeting sectors including steel, dairy, household appliances, agricultural equipment, pulp, paper and electronics. The escalating trade dispute is expected to affect both economies given the deep integration of cross-border supply chains and Canada's role as a major energy supplier to the US.

Forest and Land Fires 'Besiege' Nusantara Capital City, Buffer Zone Blazes Continue to Spread

Forest and land fires around Indonesia's new capital, Nusantara (IKN), have escalated sharply, with East Kalimantan recording 470 incidents and 1,393.78 hectares affected as of 24 August 2026. The buffer zones of Penajam Paser Utara and Kutai Kartanegara have seen significant increases since July, driven by weather conditions. Authorities report that all fires remain manageable through collaborative cross-sector efforts, with no smoke impact yet reported in the core IKN area.

Rosan: DSI Strengthens Export Data and Transaction Verification System

Danantara Indonesia CEO Rosan Roeslani has stated that PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia (DSI) was established to strengthen national export governance through an integrated, transparent and credible data and transaction verification system. He emphasised that DSI will not add bureaucracy or replace regulators, with all licensing, regulatory and supervisory functions remaining with authorised ministries and agencies. The implementation will be carried out in stages to avoid disrupting existing trade flows.

Atmosphere at Masjid Gedhe Kauman Ahead of Kondur Gangsa in Sekaten Jogja

The Kagungan Dalem Masjid Gedhe Kauman in Yogyakarta was filled with residents on Tuesday as the Sekaten and Garebeg Mulud Be 1960/2026 ceremonies neared their conclusion. Visitors gathered to listen to the two Gamelan Sekati being played at the Pagongan Lor and Kidul pavilions. The evening's Kondur Gangsa procession, marking the peak of Sekaten, will be attended by Sultan Hamengku Buwono X, though this year's Garebeg Mulud has been simplified by royal decree, with no gunungan distribution.

Environment Minister: Plantation companies must cooperate to tackle forest and land fires

Indonesia's Environment Minister has praised the South Kalimantan branch of the Indonesian Palm Oil Association (GAPKI) for expanding forest and land fire prevention efforts beyond company concessions. The initiative includes strengthening firefighting equipment, patrols, early warning systems, and community involvement. The minister stressed that fire control must be followed by environmental restoration for those proven responsible for fires.

Palm oil projected to meet 60 percent of global vegetable oil demand by 2050

Palm oil is projected to supply around 60 percent of global vegetable oil needs by 2050, positioning Indonesia as a strategically important producer. The Palm Oil Agribusiness Strategic Policy Institute highlights palm oil's superior productivity and sustainability compared with other vegetable oils. It urges productivity improvements through replanting programmes and better agricultural practices to meet rising global demand.

Jasa Marga to carry out maintenance at several points on Jabotabek toll roads

State-owned toll road operator PT Jasa Marga will conduct pavement reconstruction works on the Jagorawi, Jakarta Outer Ring Road, and Jakarta–Tangerang toll roads from 24 August to 1 September 2026. The works are intended to meet the Minimum Service Standards for toll roads while maintaining pavement quality, safety, and user comfort. Motorists are advised to plan their journeys and follow traffic signs and officers' instructions during the temporary lane and access closures.

UN: Civilian casualties rise in Gaza, West Bank

UN humanitarian agencies report deadly airstrikes in Gaza over the weekend and clashes in the West Bank that killed civilians, including a child. Three UN warehouses in Deir al-Balah were damaged by an airstrike targeting a nearby location. OCHA stressed that civilians and civilian objects, including humanitarian facilities, must always be protected.

Earth Microbes Potentially Able to Survive at the Moon's South Pole

New research suggests that microbes carried from Earth on space missions could survive in permanently shadowed regions near the Moon's South Pole. Scientists mapped survivable niches using data from the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter, comparing lunar conditions with the tolerance thresholds of various microorganisms. The findings highlight the importance of understanding microbial contamination ahead of future lunar exploration.

Registration for 2027 Hajj officers opens: requirements and schedule

Indonesia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has opened registration for Hajj Organising Officers (PPIH) for the 1448 H/2027 M pilgrimage season. The selection covers general PPIH roles and health personnel, with separate schedules and requirements for each formation. The ministry has emphasised that the selection process is free of charge and warned applicants against fraudsters offering guaranteed placement.

Jakarta Developers' Attitude Shifts Dramatically Due to MRT, What's Behind It?

Property developers in Jakarta have reversed their earlier resistance to MRT connectivity, with some now voluntarily giving up land to improve pedestrian access. The shift reflects a new paradigm where developers see public transport links as adding value to their properties. This is particularly notable in the Bundaran HI area, where land prices are the highest in Indonesia at up to Rp300 million per square metre.

Hijab polemic at Defence University: Al Washliyah grateful young generation committed to religious teachings

Al Jam'iyatul Washliyah chairman KH Masyhuril Khamis has urged the public to view the hijab controversy at the Defence University (Unhan) in full context and within existing regulations. He emphasised that religious education and character building remain vital for Indonesia's youth. The organisation called for all parties to instil religious values rather than encourage young people to abandon their faith.

Netanyahu's Likud Party Erects 'Enemies of Netanyahu' Billboards Ahead of Israeli Election

Benjamin Netanyahu's Likud party has unveiled giant billboards in Tel Aviv depicting foreign leaders and figures it labels as enemies of Israel, including Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani. The campaign comes as Likud trails in recent polls ahead of Israel's late October election, with the party projected to win only 21 seats compared to 24 for the newly formed Yashar party. Netanyahu faces accusations from Turkey and domestic rivals that he is deliberately escalating regional tensions to bolster his electoral prospects.

Man in TTS Dies After Wife Strikes Him with Shockbreaker

A man in Timor Tengah Selatan, East Nusa Tenggara, died after his wife struck him repeatedly on the head with a shockbreaker during a domestic dispute. The incident occurred after the victim, who was intoxicated, allegedly verbally abused and threatened to kill his wife. Police have arrested the suspect and urged the public to resolve domestic conflicts peacefully or through legal channels.

DSI Tightens Export Governance, Trade Contracts Remain Secure

PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia (DSI) has begun tightening governance of strategic natural resource exports, focusing initially on coal, crude palm oil, and ferroalloy. CEO Rosan Roeslani assured exporters that existing commercial contracts will be honoured and that DSI will focus on evaluation, monitoring, and transparency rather than taking over trade relationships. The state-owned company also announced its board of commissioners and directors, including former World Bank managing director Mari Elka Pangestu and Freeport Indonesia president director Tony Wenas.

Pitbull Attacks Child in Bandung, Sahroni Says Owner Can Be Prosecuted for Negligence

A nine-year-old girl in Bandung Regency required surgery after being attacked by a pitbull, prompting Deputy Chairman of House Commission III Ahmad Sahroni to warn that the dog's owner could face criminal charges. Sahroni cited Article 474 of the new Criminal Code, which carries penalties of up to one year in prison and fines for negligence causing injury. He urged all dog owners to keep their animals securely confined to prevent similar incidents.

Minister Meutya respects legal process in unlicensed internet case in Mentawai

Communications and Digital Minister Meutya Hafid has said she respects the legal process against a Mentawai resident accused of providing internet services without a licence, while urging a coaching-first approach. She noted that Sikakap village has 4G but no fibre optic connection, leaving residents dependent on a single operator. The ministry plans to help the resident obtain a licence or become a reseller for a licensed internet service provider.

AI Phenomenon: House Deputy Speaker Suggests This for Civil Servants Who Cannot Adapt

Deputy Speaker of House Commission II Dede Yusuf has urged that civil servants be prepared to work alongside artificial intelligence rather than be replaced by it. He argued that efficiency should be understood as placing ASN in roles suited to technological change, not reducing their numbers. The National Institute of Public Administration (LAN) separately reported progress in AI-focused competency development through partnerships with technology firms.

Blora Police detain three suspects in assault of two police officers

Blora Police have detained three suspects in connection with the assault of two police officers during a carnival celebrating Indonesia's 81st Independence Day in Rowobungkul Village, Ngawen District. The incident stemmed from a dispute between residents of two hamlets that escalated into violence. Both injured officers have been discharged from the local health centre, and investigations are ongoing to identify any additional perpetrators.

BMKG Launches Weather Modification Operation to Tackle Forest and Land Fires in East Kalimantan

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has commenced a weather modification operation in East Kalimantan to address water deficits at Sepaku Reservoir and combat forest and land fires. The operation, conducted with multiple government agencies, aims to optimise cloud potential to induce rainfall. Data shows prolonged dry spells and over 13,000 hotspots in the region, while the reservoir supplying the new capital Nusantara has been declining since July.

Trade Agreements Could Boost Halal Product Exports

A researcher from Indef's Center for Sharia Economic Development has highlighted that Indonesia's trade agreements with various countries present an opportunity to strengthen domestic industry and increase halal product exports. He emphasised the need for Indonesia to move beyond being merely a market to becoming a producer and exporter in the global halal supply chain. The growing global Muslim population and examples such as Malaysia's use of foreign direct investment were cited as key factors supporting this potential.

Emulating the Prophet's Food Resolution from the Grassroots

An academic argues that the Prophet Muhammad's teachings on reviving barren land offer a blueprint for addressing Indonesia's current food security crisis. The article contends that grassroots solidarity and productive self-sufficiency, rather than passive reliance on government intervention, are key to economic resilience. It draws parallels between the early Islamic community in Medina and contemporary challenges facing Indonesian households.

KPK probes financial management and procurement at Bengkulu City PUPR Office

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is investigating financial management and procurement of goods and services at the Public Works and Spatial Planning (PUPR) Office of Bengkulu City. Two officials were questioned as witnesses on 24 August 2026, including the office treasurer and the head of water resources. The probe stems from an earlier sting operation in Rejang Lebong Regency and has already led to the seizure of Rp4 billion in cash from the Bengkulu PUPR head's residence.

Two UN peacekeepers killed in ambush while patrolling in South Sudan

Two Ethiopian UN peacekeepers were killed and seven others wounded when their patrol was ambushed by unidentified armed men in Jonglei State, South Sudan. The UN Mission in South Sudan strongly condemned the attack, which appears to have been targeted. The incident highlights the continuing instability in the region amid ongoing conflict between Sudanese armed forces and rebel groups.

Indonesia Begins Building Advanced Rockets Independently, Test Flight in Three Years

Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) is developing a two-stage rocket with a test flight targeted for 2029. The programme includes key technologies such as the RX 450 rocket motor, separation systems, control systems, and telemetry, supported by the Strategic Invitation Research Programme. BRIN is also advancing the construction of a spaceport through partnerships with strategic investors.

IKN on Forest Fire Alert with Cloud Seeding Using Salt, What For?

The Nusantara Capital Authority (OIKN) has launched a weather modification operation in East Kalimantan to mitigate forest and land fire risks amid a prolonged dry spell. Working with the Indonesian Air Force, BMKG, and regional disaster agencies, the operation uses cloud seeding with sodium chloride to maintain surface water availability and strengthen fire prevention efforts.

Permata Bank Syariah's UPZDK and DDII Strengthen Partnership to Send Hundreds of Preachers to Remote Areas

UPZDK Permata Bank Syariah has reinforced its commitment to empowering communities in remote parts of Indonesia by becoming a key partner of the Dewan Dakwah Islamiyah Indonesia's Dakwah Pedalaman programme. The collaboration includes scholarships, the deployment of 132 young preachers, and the construction of basic infrastructure in underdeveloped regions. The initiative aims to address gaps in education, healthcare, and basic services in the country's outermost areas.

Transmigration areas can power Indonesia's new economic hub: Economist

An economist has argued that Indonesia's transmigration areas could become a new economic hub, leveraging the country's strategic trade position and natural resources. The government's new transmigration paradigm prioritises creating economic opportunities and jobs before population movement, with plans to develop full value chains in agriculture and processing. Five flagship programmes and the deployment of over 1,400 specialists to 53 areas in 2026 are intended to support this transformation.

Khofifah provides support for East Manggarai earthquake evacuees

East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa visited earthquake evacuees in Benteng Jawa, East Manggarai Regency, offering moral support and assessing their needs. She pledged additional rice supplies and school equipment for children, while the provincial government has already dispatched humanitarian aid worth over Rp2.2 billion. The visit was welcomed by local officials as a significant morale boost for affected residents.

Singapore Prepares Allowance of Nearly Rp1 Billion per Child, Increases Parental Leave

Singapore's Prime Minister Lawrence Wong has announced a major expansion of family support policies, including increased parental leave and a new SG Child Support Package. The package will provide each Singaporean child with S$70,000 (approximately Rp975 million) in financial support until age 17, replacing existing schemes such as Baby Bonus. The measures aim to provide consistent long-term support for parents and apply to all Singaporean children regardless of family circumstances or parental marital status.

South Kalimantan Provincial Government Holds Istisqa Prayer for Rain to Tackle Forest and Land Fires

The South Kalimantan Provincial Government held a mass Istisqa prayer at the Sabilal Muhtadin Grand Mosque in Banjarmasin to appeal for rain amid worsening forest and land fires. Governor Muhidin said the prayer was a collective effort involving officials, clerics and residents, as weather modification was currently difficult due to a lack of clouds. The authorities have urged mosques across the province to hold similar prayers while hot and dry conditions persist.

KPK questions private party to trace money flow in Banjarmasin tax office case

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has questioned a private sector witness as part of its investigation into alleged corruption at the Banjarmasin Medium Tax Office. The witness, identified as SYI, was examined regarding suspected payments received by tax examiners from several taxpayers. The case has already led to the seizure of US$680,000, 1.3 kilograms of gold, and Rp100 million.

West Kalimantan Police warn of smoke hazard for water transport users on Kapuas River

The West Kalimantan Regional Police's Water and Air Police Directorate has urged users of the Kapuas River to exercise heightened caution, as smoke haze is reducing visibility and increasing the risk of accidents. Visibility has improved to around one to two kilometres in recent days, but authorities continue to monitor conditions and advise against night-time navigation.

West Kalimantan Police SAR Team Patrols to Prevent Forest Fires Spreading to Residential Areas

The West Kalimantan Regional Police's SAR team has conducted patrols and cooling operations in fire-prone areas of Kubu Raya Regency to prevent residual embers from reigniting and spreading to residential neighbourhoods. Officers extinguished and dampened remaining hotspots along Jalan Ayani 3 in Desa Limbung, while urging residents to report any signs of fire immediately. The police emphasised that community involvement and rapid reporting are crucial to containing fires during the current dry conditions.

Expert: Trade agreements an opportunity to boost halal product exports

An Indef researcher says Indonesia's trade agreements with various countries could strengthen domestic industry and drive halal product exports, preventing Indonesia from being merely a market in the global halal supply chain. Abdul Hakam Naja highlighted the growing global Muslim population and Malaysia's success in attracting foreign direct investment as key factors. He also stressed the need to accelerate halal certification and involve universities in research and SME support.

Govt calls for swift action on forest and land fires, firm enforcement

The Indonesian government has urged rapid and coordinated action against forest and land fires, with President Prabowo Subianto calling for firm legal enforcement against violators. Authorities are investigating corporations in West Kalimantan and have sanctioned six permit holders after fires affected over 1,500 hectares, while nearly 85,000 hectares across Sumatra and Kalimantan have been impacted. Officials stressed the public health risks, particularly for children and the elderly, and pledged oversight of coordination among central and regional agencies.

Malaysia and Brunei Bring Indonesia's Haze Problem to ASEAN

Malaysia and Brunei have agreed to raise the issue of transboundary haze caused by forest and land fires in Indonesia at the ASEAN level. Indonesia has granted Malaysia permission to conduct cloud seeding operations in its airspace to help mitigate the haze. Malaysia has also expressed readiness to assist Indonesia in firefighting efforts.

8 Largest Forest Fires in World History, Is Indonesia Among Them?

CNBC Indonesia reviews the largest wildland fires ever documented, ranging from Australia's 1974-1975 season that burned nearly 117 million hectares to Indonesia's 1997-1998 fires that scorched 9.75 million hectares. The article highlights that Indonesia continues to face significant forest and land fires, with hotspots recorded in four priority provinces in August 2026. The analysis underscores how extreme heat, drought, and human activity consistently amplify fire risks across the globe.

Video: Going Global, Danantara Invests in Mecca Hotels and Madinah Airport

BPI Danantara's Chief Operating Officer Dony Oskaria outlined the ongoing reform of 1,074 state-owned enterprises, including addressing pension fund investment risks. The agency is also driving microeconomic support through reduced PNM Mekaar loan rates, mining sector enforcement and downstreaming, and energy transition initiatives.

Festive Ta'ruf Parade in Kampung Islam Kepaon Denpasar

Around 1,500 residents of Kampung Islam Kepaon in Denpasar took part in the annual Ta'ruf parade marking the Prophet Muhammad's birthday. The event combined religious observance with mass circumcision and a display of interfaith harmony with the Puri Agung Pemecutan royal house. Organisers highlighted the tradition as a symbol of tolerance and unity within the Republic of Indonesia.

Dukcapil Deploys Teams to Earthquake Disaster Sites in 7 Regions of NTT

The Directorate General of Population and Civil Registration (Dukcapil) has deployed six service teams to seven earthquake-affected areas in East Nusa Tenggara to provide on-site administrative document services. The teams bring recording and printing equipment to issue replacement identity cards and other documents for displaced residents. The initiative aims to ensure that disaster victims retain access to public services, social assistance, and healthcare despite losing or damaging their documents.

Venezuela Earthquake Death Toll Rises to 6,509

The death toll from the twin earthquakes that struck Venezuela in June has risen to 6,509, up from 6,438 previously. Evacuation of bodies from the rubble continues in La Guaira, where thousands of displaced people are living in emergency camps. Authorities have provided 335 homes for victims, falling short of the 4,000 promised by the end of the year.

Pangkalpinang holds 'Nganggung' with 1,000 dulang to celebrate Prophet Muhammad's birthday

The city of Pangkalpinang in the Bangka Belitung Islands held a traditional 'Nganggung' festival featuring 1,000 dulang trays of food and fruit at the Tua Tunu Grand Mosque to mark the Prophet Muhammad's birthday. Mayor Saparudin emphasised that the tradition strengthens community spirit, mutual cooperation and unity. The event drew large crowds, causing traffic congestion in the area.

Undip Student Team and Bank BTN Help Lanjan Village Businesses Go Digital

A student capacity-building team from Universitas Diponegoro has partnered with Bank BTN to introduce QRIS digital payments to small business owners in Lanjan Village, Semarang Regency. The initiative aims to boost local economic growth by helping entrepreneurs adopt digital financial tools and better manage their cash flow. Participants welcomed the hands-on assistance, with organisers hoping the programme will spur further digital adoption and the development of local culinary ventures.

AI development presents new challenges in judicial process

Deputy Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs Nezar Patria has warned that generative AI's ability to create synthetic realities poses significant authentication challenges for evidence presented in court. He noted that while AI can assist with document preparation and case administration, human judges must remain the ultimate decision-makers in judicial proceedings.

Kompolnas Urges Police to Be Cautious in Blocking Public Bank Accounts: Erodes Bank Reputation

The National Police Commission (Kompolnas) has called on the Indonesian National Police to exercise greater care when blocking citizens' bank accounts, warning that such actions can undermine public trust in the banking sector. The statement follows the blocking of a state-owned bank account belonging to a protest coordinator from Pati, Central Java. Kompolnas member Mohammad Choirul Anam stressed that while blocking is permissible for suspected money laundering or terrorism, police must also consider economic interests and constitutional rights to free expression.

Practitioners: Optimising domestic gas requires integrated infrastructure

Oil and gas practitioners argue that optimising Indonesia's domestic gas utilisation depends on creating an ecosystem that ensures economic certainty for field development and investment. They stress that gas reserves alone are insufficient without integrated infrastructure and market access to enable sustainable production, distribution, and absorption. Fiscal incentives, regulatory certainty, and infrastructure-led exploration are identified as key strategies for monetising gas discoveries, particularly in unexplored basins.

State Secretary Reveals Why Forestry and Environment Ministers Missed Forest Fire Coordination Meeting

State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi has clarified that Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni and Environment Minister Jumhur Hidayat were absent from President Prabowo Subianto's forest and land fire coordination meeting because they had already visited affected areas. The meeting focused on boosting personnel and equipment, including TNI and Polri support for water bombing and modified trail motorcycles.

Tabebuya Blooms Become Photo Spot in Kemang, Residents: Looks Like Japan

Tabebuya trees along Jalan Kemang Raya in South Jakarta have burst into bloom, drawing residents who say the pink and white flowers resemble Japanese cherry blossoms. Locals expressed delight at finding a natural, picturesque spot in the city and voiced hope that similar greenery could be introduced across Jakarta to improve comfort and aesthetics.

China promotes innovation and digitalisation of SMEs at APEC Forum

China is set to host the 32nd APEC SME Ministerial Meeting in Guangzhou on 4 September, focusing on technological innovation, digital empowerment and inclusive development. The meeting aims to produce a joint ministerial statement and enhance SME innovation capacity and digitalisation across the Asia-Pacific region. China will also host the 33rd APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting in Shenzhen in November, marking the third time a Chinese city has hosted the event.

Regular Consumption of Sugary Drinks May Increase Stomach Cancer Risk

A new study published in Gastro Hep Advances has found that consuming at least one sugar-sweetened beverage daily is associated with a nearly 2.5-fold higher risk of stomach cancer. Researchers analysed data from over 112,000 health professionals over several decades, identifying 278 cases of stomach cancer. The findings add to growing evidence linking sugary drink consumption to serious long-term health consequences.

Gold ETF, a New Alternative for Gold Investment

The Indonesia Stock Exchange, together with other Self-Regulatory Organizations and with support from the Financial Services Authority, has officially launched the first gold Exchange Traded Fund in the Indonesian capital market. The launch coincided with the 49th anniversary of the reactivation of Indonesia's capital market. This provides investors with a new alternative to physical gold ownership.

Unjani Hosts International Disaster Management Jamboree to Anticipate Disasters

Universitas Jenderal Ahmad Yani (Unjani) has concluded its International Disaster Management Jamboree 2026, a two-day simulation and competition focused on urban disaster preparedness. The event brought together 16 teams from national institutions and international participants, including students from the University of Lyon in France. Organisers emphasised the university's commitment to emergency and disaster management as a core academic vision.

Caution! WhatsApp Suddenly Requests OTP Code, Activate This Setting

WhatsApp users are being warned about unexpected verification code requests, which may indicate either a mistyped number or an attempted account takeover. The platform advises never sharing the OTP with anyone and recommends enabling two-step verification for added security.

KAI Daop 1: Today marks peak return flow for Maulid Nabi holiday

PT KAI Daop 1 Jakarta recorded 37,964 passenger arrivals on Tuesday, 25 August 2026, the highest volume during the Maulid Nabi long weekend. Gambir Station led with 13,356 arrivals, followed by Pasar Senen with 12,936. Overall, KAI provided 196,870 long-distance train seats during the holiday period with an occupancy rate of around 78 per cent.

Ahead of 27 August Rally, Tasikmalaya Children of the Nation Alliance Supports Jakarta Remaining Safe

A coalition of community groups in Tasikmalaya, West Java, has called for calm and order ahead of a planned demonstration in Jakarta on 27 August. The alliance, which includes market traders, farmers, youth and religious figures, supports the government's agenda and warns against provocateurs seeking to disrupt national unity. They specifically back the asset forfeiture bill and the death penalty for corruptors.

New Jakarta Hospital Offers Stem Cell Services and Cancer Vaccine Research

Jakarta has strengthened its medical technology ecosystem with the opening of Toto Tentrem Hospital in Tebet, South Jakarta, which specialises in stem cell and regenerative medicine. Governor Pramono Anung inaugurated the facility and encouraged collaboration with regional public hospitals to boost the capital's medical tourism competitiveness. The hospital, which began construction under former governor Anies Baswedan, aims to provide both curative and preventive stem cell treatments.

Balikpapan City Government Implements Time-Based Fuel Purchase Rules from 1 September

The Balikpapan municipal administration will introduce new distribution rules for subsidised Pertalite and Biosolar fuels from 1 September 2026. The measures include time-based service windows at petrol stations, vehicle-type segregation, and an odd-even number plate system for diesel. Five additional petrol stations will be designated specifically for motorcycles.

Danamon distributes logistical aid for NTT earthquake victims

PT Bank Danamon Indonesia Tbk has delivered humanitarian assistance to communities affected by the earthquake in Ende Regency, East Nusa Tenggara. The aid, comprising rice, blankets, tarpaulins, eggs, instant noodles, biscuits, mineral water and other essentials, was coordinated with local government and disaster agencies. The bank expressed hope that conditions would recover swiftly and that relief efforts would continue effectively.

Unusual Phenomenon: Puncak Bogor Gets Colder During Dry Season, What's Happening?

Researchers from IPB University have explained why the Puncak area of Bogor has been experiencing colder temperatures during the dry season. The phenomenon is attributed to the Australian monsoon bringing dry, cool air masses, combined with clear skies that enhance radiative cooling after sunset. The dry season is expected to last until September 2026, with its peak in August.

SOE Profit Reaches Rp 330 Trillion, Danantara Targets Rp 360 Trillion in 2026

BPI Danantara reported that profits of state-owned enterprises under its management reached Rp 330 trillion, with a target of Rp 360 trillion for 2026. COO Dony Oskaria highlighted that this figure already exceeds Temasek Holdings' profit of approximately Rp 136 trillion. He emphasised that the achievement demonstrates Indonesia's capacity to build high-performing state enterprises.

Ministry of Forestry: PBPH holders must take extra measures to tackle forest and land fires

Indonesia's Ministry of Forestry has ordered holders of Forest Utilisation Business Permits (PBPH) to implement extraordinary measures in preventing and controlling forest and land fires, citing extreme weather risks from El Niño in 2026 and 2027. The ministry warned that business-as-usual approaches would be considered negligence, and emphasised that compliance will be assessed on preparedness, early detection, rapid response, and inter-company collaboration. Initial evaluations found around 10 percent of permit holders still need to improve their reporting discipline.

Lotte Chemical Plans to Divest Petrochemical Assets in Indonesia

South Korean chemical giant Lotte Chemical Corp. is restructuring its overseas petrochemical operations by selling assets in Malaysia, Indonesia, and the United States amid global oversupply pressures, particularly from China. The company is reportedly exploring the sale of a stake in its Indonesian subsidiary, Lotte Chemical Indonesia, to Indonesia's sovereign wealth fund, Danantara. The move is part of a broader strategy to reduce reliance on commodity products and shift towards higher-value-added business lines.

473 Hotspots Detected in South Kalimantan, Nearly All Areas in Red Zone for Forest and Land Fires

The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has detected 473 hotspots across South Kalimantan, with the highest concentrations in Hulu Sungai Selatan, Tapin, and Banjar regencies. Nearly all of the province's 13 districts and cities are now classified as red zones, indicating a very high risk of forest and land fires. The majority of hotspots are categorised as medium confidence, with only Banjarmasin and Balangan recording no hotspots.

Tambora National Park Confirms Three Fire Hotspots on Mount Tambora Extinguished

Tambora National Park officials have confirmed that three fire hotspots detected on Mount Tambora in Dompu Regency, West Nusa Tenggara, have been extinguished and pose no danger. The hotspots were located inside the caldera near the magma chamber, not from grassland fires as initially reported. The upcoming Tambora Jungle Run event on 30 August 2026 will proceed as scheduled following a safety recommendation from the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources' volcanology team.

US Threatens New Sanctions, Vows to Strangle Iran's Economy

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has pledged to 'cripple' Iran's economy through expanded secondary sanctions targeting digital assets, technology, gold, aviation, and shipping. The measures would also hit 60 individuals, companies, and vessels accused of helping Iran generate oil revenue, procure weapons, and conduct cyber operations. Iran's Economy Minister dismissed the threats, saying Tehran has long anticipated such plans and has a two-year strategy to manage the situation.

Ahead of Israeli Election, Netanyahu Claims Iran Tried to Kill One of His Sons

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has claimed that Iran attempted to assassinate one of his sons, though he provided no details on timing, target, or how close the plot came to execution. The remarks, made during a television interview, were linked to his call for security protection for all prime ministerial candidates ahead of Israel's 27 October general election. The claim comes amid heightened Israel-Iran tensions and domestic political pressure on Netanyahu's coalition.

Purbaya Reveals West Java APBN Surplus of Rp 22 Trillion Until July 2026

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa announced that West Java recorded a regional state budget surplus of Rp 22.02 trillion up to July 2026, driven by strong tax revenue growth. He emphasised that budget execution must translate into tangible economic activity and public welfare, not merely absorption figures. The province's economy grew 5.73 percent year-on-year in the second quarter, supported by the manufacturing sector.

Brimob Polda Metro Arrests 2 Youths About to Brawl in Ciracas, 4 Sharp Weapons Seized

Police arrested two youths suspected of planning a street brawl in Ciracas, East Jakarta, and seized four sharp weapons and two motorcycles. The arrests followed a tip-off from residents and are part of intensified routine patrols aimed at preventing crime and maintaining public order. The suspects and evidence have been handed over to the East Jakarta Metro Police for further legal processing.

Victim's Family Denies Kinship with Pitbull Owner

The family of a young girl attacked by a pitbull has refuted claims that they are related to the dog's owner. They believe a misunderstanding during hospital assistance led police to record incorrect information. The family remains focused on the victim's recovery after she sustained serious head and ear injuries.

Latest Update on Forest and Land Fires Across Indonesia

Forest and land fires continue to affect multiple regions across Indonesia, with significant areas burned in Kalimantan, Sumatra, and Papua. The Ministry of Forestry has imposed sanctions on several companies linked to the fires, while authorities deploy water bombing, weather modification, and ground operations to contain the blazes. Smoke from Kalimantan has drifted to Sarawak, Malaysia, prompting school closures there.

Madura Set for Total Transformation as Mega Project Draws Chinese Investment

The Wiraraja Madura Industrial Estate in Bangkalan is being developed to create a new economic growth centre in East Java, with China emerging as the largest source of manufacturing investment. The project aims to address extreme poverty in the region through job creation and economic redistribution, with factories planned for plastics, yarn, mattresses, furniture, food, and fish canning. Development is currently in the permitting stage, with physical construction expected to begin once approvals are completed.

Danantara CEO: DSI Strengthens Natural Resource Export Governance, Not Adding Bureaucratic Layers

Rosan Roeslani, CEO of Danantara Indonesia, has clarified that PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia (DSI) is designed to strengthen export governance through integrated and transparent verification, not to add bureaucracy or replace regulators. The new entity will verify export data and transactions, including quantity, quality, pricing, payment settlement, and foreign exchange repatriation. Implementation will be phased to avoid disrupting existing trade flows.

BTN Sends Aid to Residents Affected by Sade Traditional Village Fire

State-owned bank BTN has distributed essential supplies to around 320 residents affected by a fire that destroyed 167 structures in Sade Traditional Village, Central Lombok. The assistance, coordinated with Danantara Indonesia and other state-owned enterprises, includes bedding, drinking water, food, and worship supplies. The fire damaged 75 traditional houses, 69 art shops, granaries, and cultural heritage assets of the Sasak community.

PTI UMS Gandeng Ubuntu Indonesia untuk Sertifikasi AI Canonical

Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta's Informatics Education programme is partnering with Ubuntu Indonesia and PT Sivali Cloud Technology to provide students with Canonical AI certification and open-source training. The collaboration aims to bridge academia and industry by developing curricula in artificial intelligence and cloud computing, while revitalising the campus open-source community. This initiative is intended to strengthen Indonesia's digital talent pool and prepare graduates for the AI-driven global economy.

Inovasi Tim UMS: Cara Seru Anak Disleksia Belajar Menulis Huruf Pakai Pasir dan Plastisin

Students from Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta have developed an inclusive educational method called Fun Motion to help dyslexic children learn to write letters using sand, plasticine, and colourful books. The community service programme at SDN Nayu Barat 1 Surakarta employs a multisensory, kinesthetic approach tailored to different grade levels to improve fine motor skills. The initiative aims to serve as a model for public schools in creating child-friendly inclusive learning environments.

Expert: Central Government Should Not Wait for National Disaster Status

A governance expert has urged Indonesia to shift its disaster management paradigm so that central government assistance is deployed based on local capacity rather than waiting for a formal national disaster declaration. Djohermansyah Djohan, a professor at the Institute of Home Affairs Governance, argues that emergency needs such as clean water, food and medical care cannot be delayed by administrative labelling. He calls for an automatic escalation mechanism, stronger regional disaster agencies and greater investment in pre-disaster mitigation.

5 Status Match Programmes in Indonesia, Is Crypto Included?

Status match programmes are gaining traction in Indonesia, extending beyond banking and travel into the cryptocurrency industry. Platforms like Pintu now offer VIP status matching to attract premium traders from other exchanges. This article reviews five notable status match programmes available in Indonesia across crypto, aviation, and hospitality sectors.

Video: Still Dependent on Wheat Imports in Wartime, What Must Indonesia Do?

Tensions between Russia and Ukraine have disrupted grain supplies from the Black Sea, driving up global wheat prices. Indonesia, which still imports cheap wheat from both countries, faces potential impacts on its domestic industry. The discussion examines how the supply disruption could affect Indonesia and what measures may be needed.

Bank Mandiri, BRI and BNI Shares Surge in August

Shares of Indonesia's major state-owned banks rallied in August 2026, extending gains from July as investors returned to the sector. The recovery was driven by attractive valuations, renewed foreign buying, stable interest rates and a strengthening rupiah.

Aria Bima Calls for Oversight of Tito's Instruction Banning Land Clearing by Burning

House Deputy Speaker Aria Bima has welcomed Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian's instruction banning all land clearing by burning, though he believes it is overdue. He stressed that the practice causes severe biodiversity loss, public health crises, and diplomatic embarrassment with neighbouring countries. Bima urged that the instruction be properly enforced with clear oversight and sanctions, rather than remaining a mere circular.

Israeli Settlement Outposts Expand, Palestinians Claim Terror and Expulsion

Palestinian residents in the occupied West Bank report escalating intimidation, violence, and sieges by Israeli settlers and forces aimed at forcing them from their homes and land. Israeli media outlet Ynet documents a pattern of blockades, arson, and threats, particularly in Areas A and B, where settlement outposts have expanded significantly. Rights groups warn that settlement expansion is directly linked to rising violence against Palestinian communities.

DSI's Success Should Not Be Measured by Transaction Value, but Fiscal Effect

An economist from Indef argues that PT Danantara Sumber Daya Indonesia's success should be judged by its ability to close state revenue leakages rather than the value of transactions it oversees. Rizal Taufikurrahman highlights that effective governance could boost tax bases, royalties, and export proceeds repatriation, strengthening the rupiah and external stability. He also cautions that DSI must avoid becoming an additional bureaucratic layer that raises export costs.

Jakarta Provincial Government Encourages SMEs to Penetrate Global Markets via CIEIE 2026

The Jakarta provincial government is facilitating the participation of 23 curated SMEs in the China International SME Fair 2026 in Guangzhou as part of efforts to expand their export market access. Deputy Governor Rano Karno highlighted the China (Indonesia) International E-Commerce Industry Expo 2026 as a platform to strengthen Indonesia-China trade ties and open international business opportunities for Jakarta's small enterprises. The initiative forms part of Jakarta's broader economic transformation strategy, which includes developing high-value industries and integrating them with modern services and the halal ecosystem.

Final Laughter of Bangli Migrant Worker in Japan Before Death by Hanging

An 18-year-old Indonesian migrant worker from Bangli, Bali, was found dead in her company apartment in Kagoshima, Japan, in a suspected suicide. Her father said she had been joking and laughing with her younger sister by phone just two days before her death. Japanese authorities are still investigating the case, and the repatriation of her body is being processed.

Viral Video Shows Motorcycle Thief in Depok Firing Gun While Fleeing Residents, Police Investigate

Police in Depok are investigating a viral video showing a motorcycle thief allegedly firing a firearm while being chased by residents in Sukmajaya. The suspect managed to escape on foot after abandoning the stolen motorcycle, and authorities are now coordinating with a special team to track him down.

Chinese Idols Banned from Singing Japanese Songs Amid Worsening Diplomatic Relations

Authorities in Shanghai have reportedly instructed underground idol groups to stop performing Japanese-language songs, reflecting heightened tensions between Beijing and Tokyo. The move follows Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's remarks on Taiwan and is seen as part of broader pressure from Beijing across tourism, trade, education, and entertainment sectors.

Death of Febrie Adriansyah's House Guard Deemed Unnatural, IPW Urges Police to Reveal Perpetrator

Indonesia Police Watch (IPW) has deemed the death of Sutrimo, the guard of a vacant house owned by former Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes (Jampidsus) Febrie Adriansyah, as unnatural, citing the police's escalation of the case to the investigation stage. IPW Chairman Sugeng Teguh Santoso stated that forensic examination results, expected within a week, will determine whether Sutrimo was murdered and if poison was involved. The case has drawn attention due to Sutrimo's alleged knowledge of items found during searches at Febrie Adriansyah's properties, with IPW urging Polda Metro Jaya to conduct a transparent and professional investigation.

Handling Forest and Land Fires, West Kalimantan Police Search for Water Sources and Prepare 300 Brimob Personnel

The West Kalimantan Regional Police are strengthening their strategy to tackle forest and land fires by mapping water sources in vulnerable areas and coordinating with the provincial Environmental Agency. They have also received an additional 300 Brimob personnel to support operations across eight priority districts. The police are also engaging companies operating near fire-prone areas to assist with water supply and distribution.

Vocational School Student Arrested for Stealing Gold from Empty House of Earthquake Victim

A 17-year-old vocational school student in Labuan Bajo has been arrested for burgling homes abandoned by earthquake victims, stealing gold jewellery, mobile phones, cash and rice. Police say the suspect used a rented motorcycle and committed multiple thefts across the area before and after the Flores earthquake. The case is being handled under Indonesia's juvenile justice system, with the suspect facing up to seven years in prison.

47 Killed in Armed Gang Attack, Government and Police Respond

At least 47 people were killed and 22 injured in an armed gang attack in Kenscoff, Haiti, prompting residents to demand accountability from the government and the removal of the local police chief. The Haitian Prime Minister's office condemned the attack and pledged to restore state authority in the area. The violence raises concerns about Haiti's ability to hold elections in December.

Central Sulawesi receives 16 X-ray units to expand TB screening

The Central Sulawesi provincial government will receive 16 portable X-ray units from the Indonesian Ministry of Health to be deployed across all regencies and municipalities, expanding tuberculosis screening coverage. The devices, scheduled to arrive in September 2026, will be complemented by Near Point of Care testing equipment to reach remote communities. The initiative aims to improve early detection and preventive therapy, as Central Sulawesi ranks among the top six provinces nationally for TB case detection in 2025.

Iran denies receiving invitation to join Makkah Defence Treaty

Iran has denied receiving an official invitation to join the Makkah Joint Defence Treaty, contradicting earlier claims by an Iranian parliamentary official. The pact, signed by Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan on 7 August, aims to strengthen collective deterrence against regional aggression. The denial highlights ongoing diplomatic sensitivities surrounding the new defence arrangement.

Netanyahu Suspected of Seeking to Delay Israeli Election as Party Slumps in Latest Poll

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is suspected of attempting to delay the country's parliamentary election by provoking escalation in Gaza, according to assessments by senior Israeli military officials. The latest Channel 12 poll shows Netanyahu's Likud party trailing the newly formed Yashar party, with its leader Gadi Eisenkot leading Netanyahu by 10 points in prime ministerial preference. Netanyahu has publicly urged voters not to support small right-wing parties, warning that splitting the right-wing vote could hand power to the left.

Projo Clarifies Viral Video of Budi Arie and Jokowi Regarding Elections

Projo has clarified a viral video featuring its chairman Budi Arie Setiadi discussing the possibility of accelerating the 2029 general election. The organisation stated the clip was taken out of context from an internal discussion during an Independence Month gathering with former president Joko Widodo. Projo emphasised that the forum was intended to relay volunteers' input to President Prabowo Subianto through Jokowi, who reportedly urged calm and noted the economy remains stable.

Indonesia sanctions 6 firms after 1,511 hectares burn in Kalimantan

Indonesia's Environment and Forestry Ministry has imposed administrative sanctions on six plantation companies after forest and land fires burned approximately 1,511 hectares across their concessions in Kalimantan. The penalties include mandatory improvements to fire prevention systems, restoration of affected areas, and in one case suspension of a business permit. Officials warned that sanctions could escalate to permit revocation or criminal prosecution if companies fail to comply or if evidence of deliberate burning emerges.

Why the 1992 Flores Earthquake Was Deadlier Than 2026

Researchers from Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) have compared the 1992 and 2026 Flores earthquakes, finding that similar magnitudes do not guarantee similar tsunami threats. The 1992 event produced a devastating tsunami with a run-up of 26.2 metres, likely amplified by submarine landslides, while the 2026 quake generated only a relatively small tsunami. The findings underscore the importance of understanding seafloor deformation and local bathymetry in tsunami risk assessment for East Nusa Tenggara.

West Kalimantan Police search for water sources to tackle forest and land fires

West Kalimantan Regional Police are identifying and preparing water sources in fire-prone areas to strengthen forest and land fire response. The force is coordinating with the provincial Environmental Agency and involving nearby companies to support water distribution. An additional 300 Mobile Brigade personnel have been deployed to assist operations across eight priority districts.

Gold prices for three Pegadaian brands rise in unison on Tuesday

Gold prices for Galeri24, Antam, and UBS at Pegadaian all increased on Tuesday compared with the previous day. The price of Antam gold rose to Rp2,810,000 per gram, while Galeri24 and UBS reached Rp2,726,000 and Rp2,788,000 per gram respectively. Prices are subject to change at any time.

Top stories: six companies sanctioned over forest fires, Jakarta remains secure

The Ministry of Forestry has sanctioned six companies for repeated forest and land fires in Kalimantan, covering 1,511.55 hectares. President Prabowo Subianto has also reinforced a ban on land clearing by burning. Meanwhile, Jakarta police have assured the public that the capital remains safe and conducive.

98 Resolutions Network distributes aid to earthquake victims in NTT

The 98 Resolutions Network community has distributed humanitarian aid worth nearly Rp1 billion in the form of basic food packages and cash to communities affected by the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. The assistance is intended to help meet basic needs and support recovery efforts during the emergency response period. The group emphasised that the aid reflects solidarity and a shared moral responsibility towards fellow citizens facing disaster.

DPR: Forest and Land Fires Could Adversely Affect Food Supply

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has warned that prolonged drought and forest and land fires could disrupt staple food supplies in West Kalimantan. Yuliansyah urged central and regional governments to collaborate on mitigation measures focusing on clean water availability and food security. He cautioned that supply chain disruptions could trigger price rises and weaken public purchasing power.

Public Works Ministry supplies water to tackle forest and land fires in Muaro Jambi

Indonesia's Ministry of Public Works is supplying water and coordinating with local agencies to combat forest and land fires in Muaro Jambi Regency, Jambi Province. The ministry is strengthening cross-sector coordination and optimising water infrastructure to support disaster response during the 2026 dry season. Firefighting efforts have extinguished the flames, but cooling operations continue to prevent reignition, particularly in peatland areas.

US War Department Releases Boeing Receives F-15 Eagle Jet Contract from Indonesia

The United States Department of War has announced that Boeing has been awarded a contract worth 131.23 billion US dollars for the F-15 Eagle Crest programme, which includes Foreign Military Sales to Indonesia. The contract covers aircraft production, system integration, modernisation, upgrades, repairs, maintenance, and the establishment of organic depot maintenance capabilities. Work will be performed in St. Louis, Missouri, and is expected to be completed by August 2037.

400 Nagekeo Earthquake Victims Receive Health Services from National Police

Around 400 residents affected by the earthquake in Nagekeo Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, have received medical treatment at a National Police health post. Common complaints included upper respiratory tract infections, flu, cough, and gastritis. The police also provided psychological support and trauma healing activities for children in evacuation shelters.

Pakistan's army chief visits Iran to push for Middle East peace

Pakistan's Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi visited Iran on Monday as part of Islamabad's efforts to promote peace and stability in the Middle East. The visit focuses on achieving a peaceful, lasting and comprehensive resolution to regional conflicts. It comes amid ongoing diplomatic efforts by Pakistan to facilitate dialogue and de-escalation between Iran and the United States.

MPR Research Body Examines Decentralisation and Regional Autonomy

The People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) research body is reviewing the implementation of decentralisation and regional autonomy, focusing on constitutional provisions and persistent challenges. Experts highlighted high regional dependence on central government transfers and weak local bureaucratic capacity as key obstacles. The discussions aim to assess whether existing constitutional articles remain relevant or require refinement.

Financing for Companies with Forest Fire Risk Must Be Tightened

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission XI has called on the Financial Services Authority (OJK) and banks to strengthen oversight of financing for plantation and forestry companies with forest and land fire risks. Habib Idrus Salim Aljufri argued that environmental track records, including repeated fires in concession areas, must be a key part of credit risk assessment. He also urged that stricter financing for problematic companies should not restrict access to credit for smallholder farmers practising sustainable land management.

328 Schools in Nagekeo Damaged by Earthquake, Students Learning in Evacuation Shelters

A 7.7 magnitude earthquake has damaged 328 schools in Nagekeo Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, forcing students to continue their education from evacuation posts and unaffected homes during the emergency response period. The local education office has implemented distance learning methods, with teachers delivering materials online where possible and in person where connectivity is poor. The central government has allocated Rp 860 million in aid for 61 affected schools on Flores Island.

BRIN's Forest Fire Suppression Technology vs the World

Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) is deploying AI-based satellite detection, weather modification, and drone technology to combat forest and land fires during the 2026 dry season. Its GEOMIMO platform integrates remote sensing data for early detection, while Dumakron seeding material and flare technology aim to induce rain. The article compares these efforts with advanced automated firefighting systems being developed in the United States, Australia, and Canada.

BMKG detects 473 hotspots in South Kalimantan

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has identified 473 hotspots across South Kalimantan, with the highest concentrations in Hulu Sungai Selatan, Tapin and Banjar regencies. Most hotspots are categorised as moderate, while 32 are high-risk. Nearly all districts in the province are under a red-zone forest and land fire warning.

PRR Task Force Steps Up Oversight of Additional Regional Transfer Realisation in Disaster-Affected Areas

The Post-Disaster Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Task Force (Satgas PRR) for Sumatra is intensifying monitoring of additional Regional Transfer (TKD) spending in disaster-affected districts across Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra. Realisation rates remain uneven, with West Sumatra leading at 13.49 per cent while several districts, including Central Tapanuli, have yet to spend any of their allocated funds. The task force is providing technical assistance and field monitoring to accelerate accountable use of the funds for basic services, connectivity, housing, and livelihoods.

Asia Pacific Coatings Show to Feature 170 Exhibitors from 10 Countries

The Asia Pacific Coatings Show opens tomorrow at Jakarta International Expo, bringing together over 170 exhibitors from 10 countries across the Asia Pacific region. The three-day event will feature a ChemTalks programme with 15 technical and commercial sessions addressing industry developments. Organisers anticipate a stronger edition this year, providing a platform for suppliers, manufacturers, and technical specialists to connect and share expertise.

Can Business and Conservation Unite for Mutual Benefit?

Indonesian economists and conservation groups are exploring how bioeconomy models, nature-based solutions, and green investment can replace extractive economic approaches. Yayasan KEHATI is hosting a forum to align conservation with economic development and national competitiveness.

Recorded in Decile 9, Becak Driver Timbul Confused About Applying for Child's Tuition Relief

A becak driver in Kulon Progo was surprised to find his household recorded in decile 9 when applying for tuition relief for his son at Yogyakarta State University. Timbul, who previously received social assistance, now faces difficulty obtaining a certificate of indigence. The BPS has stated that decile changes remain possible pending verification.

Russia claims to have destroyed 351 Ukrainian drones overnight

Russia's Defence Ministry reported that its air defence systems intercepted and destroyed 351 Ukrainian fixed-wing drones overnight. Meanwhile, the European Commission approved a new €6.1 billion defence procurement package for Ukraine, including air defence systems, missiles, ammunition, and radar. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha also announced the arrival of European Council President Antonio Costa and British Prime Minister Andy Burnham in Kyiv.

Ministry of Forestry Stresses PBPH Must Take Extra Measures in Controlling Forest and Land Fires in Their Areas

The Ministry of Forestry has warned that extreme El Nino weather conditions in 2026 and 2027 require all Forest Utilisation Business Permit holders to go beyond business-as-usual approaches to forest and land fire control. Director General Laksmi Wijayanti emphasised that compliance will be measured through proactive prevention, rapid response, and genuine collaboration rather than paperwork alone. An initial evaluation found around 10 percent of permit holders still need to improve their reporting discipline.

Polda Metro Jaya detains two youths suspected of planning a brawl in East Jakarta

Police in East Jakarta detained two young men suspected of preparing to engage in a street brawl in Ciracas. Officers seized four sharp weapons and two motorcycles during the operation. Authorities have urged families and communities to help prevent youth involvement in street violence.

Public Works Ministry deploys water pumps to tackle drought in Sarolangun farmland

Indonesia's Public Works Ministry has deployed irrigation pumps to channel water from the Batang Asai River to drought-affected rice fields in Sarolangun Regency, Jambi. The intervention covers 5.1 hectares of farmland and benefits around 15 farmers, with longer-term plans including a proposed bore well to reduce reliance on rainfall.

Indonesian Scientist Discovers Cassava-Based Fire Extinguisher to Help Tackle Forest Fires

An Indonesian scientist has developed a chemical fire suppressant derived from cassava peel extract that can break the chain reaction in fires, drastically reducing temperatures without producing smoke. The National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) is exploring its use to strengthen efforts against forest and land fires. The inventor, Randall Hartolaksono, has commercialised the technology through his company Hartindo Chemicatama Industri.

Stocks rise and oil slips as traders eye Iran threat, Nvidia results

Global equities mostly rose while oil prices dipped as markets digested Washington's intensified economic pressure campaign against Iran, which appears designed to avoid immediate military escalation and ease inflation concerns. Attention now turns to Nvidia's earnings as a key test for the artificial intelligence investment boom, alongside the Jackson Hole central bankers' gathering for signals on monetary policy.

Kodam XII/Tanjungpura deploys 1,200 personnel to tackle forest and land fires

Kodam XII/Tanjungpura has mobilised approximately 1,200 additional personnel to strengthen forest and land fire management across West Kalimantan. The deployment follows directives from the President, ministers, the TNI Commander and the National Police Chief. The military command is coordinating with provincial agencies, disaster authorities and local volunteers to accelerate response times and prevent fires from spreading during the ongoing dry season.

West Kalimantan Police deploy 300 Brimob personnel to tackle forest and land fires

The West Kalimantan Regional Police have received an additional 300 Mobile Brigade (Brimob) personnel to strengthen efforts against forest and land fires in eight priority districts. The deployment is part of the Aman Nusa Dua task force and follows a directive from the National Police Chief. Police are also tightening oversight of companies near fire sites and preparing water sources such as embankments and trenches.

Oil Tanker Struck by Projectile off the Coast of Oman

An oil tanker was hit by an unidentified projectile in the Strait of Hormuz off the coast of Oman, causing engine damage but no casualties. The incident comes amid heightened tensions in the region, with Iran having imposed an effective blockade on the strait since late February. The UK Maritime Trade Operations confirmed the vessel was disabled by the strike.

House Commission IX pushes for incentives for health workers in disaster zones

House of Representatives Commission IX has urged the government to provide incentives for health workers affected by the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara while continuing to serve in disaster areas. The commission also called for attention to nurses, not just specialist doctors, and for local governments to survey damaged homes of medical personnel. The push follows a visit by commission members to health facilities in Manggarai Regency after the 7.7 magnitude earthquake.

Former Jokowi Minister Visits IKN and Sees It Firsthand, Response Is Unexpected

Suharso Monoarfa, Indonesia's former Minister of National Development Planning, visited the Nusantara Capital City (IKN) to observe construction progress firsthand. He expressed satisfaction with the development and urged domestic investors to be bolder in seizing opportunities there. The visit highlighted IKN's sponge city concept, with 32 retention ponds already operational and 24 more planned for 2026.

7,029 Aftershocks Rock East Nusa Tenggara, Largest at 6.2 Magnitude

The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has recorded 7,029 aftershocks following the 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, with the largest measuring 6.2 magnitude. The seismic activity continues as disaster response efforts remain underway, with the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) reporting 100 fatalities, 1,603 injuries and 180,327 displaced people.

House Commission III Targets Asset Forfeiture Bill to Be Passed by December 2026

House of Representatives Commission III is aiming to pass the Asset Forfeiture Bill into law by December 2026, with only about eight weeks of effective sitting time remaining. The commission has held 35 public hearings and three regional working visits, with the public broadly supportive of the bill. Key issues under discussion include non-conviction based asset forfeiture and a carefully designed reverse burden of proof mechanism to prevent abuse of power.

Surabaya Fatal Hit-and-Run Suspect Admits Consuming Alcohol

A woman suspected in a fatal hit-and-run near Surabaya's Grahadi State Building has admitted to drinking heavily before driving. Police confirmed her blood alcohol level was 1.06 percent, far above the legal limit, and she now faces multiple charges carrying up to six years in prison.

Scientists Predict the End of the World, Earliest in November 2026

Predictions about the end of the world have resurfaced, with physicist Heinz von Foerster's theory pointing to 13 November 2026 as a potential doomsday date. His calculation, based on uncontrolled human population growth, suggests the planet will reach its maximum carrying capacity by that year. Other predictions from religious and scientific figures range from 2026 to 2280.

US threatens China with sanctions if it insists on doing business with Iran

The United States has warned China and other nations of heightened secondary sanctions risk if they continue trading with Iran, as Washington launches a new campaign targeting five key sectors of the Iranian economy. The 'Operation Economic Outcast' initiative focuses on digital assets, technology, gold, aviation, and shipping. The threat comes as President Trump pursues a deal with Iran and ahead of a planned White House visit by President Xi Jinping.

Prabowo to Inaugurate Groundbreaking of 100 GWp Solar Power Plant Programme in Bali Today

President Prabowo Subianto is set to launch the first phase of Indonesia's 100 GWp solar power plant programme in Jembrana, Bali. The initiative is part of the national energy independence cluster and aims to reduce reliance on fossil fuels while cutting electricity costs by an estimated Rp 73.9 trillion per year. The government also targets 30 GWp of solar capacity alongside the retirement of 13 GW of diesel power plants.

Prabowo to launch 100 GWp solar power programme in Bali to strengthen energy self-sufficiency

President Prabowo Subianto is set to launch a 100 GWp solar power plant programme in Jembrana, Bali, as part of efforts to bolster national energy independence and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. The government has been instructed to accelerate completion by 2029, with projected annual electricity cost savings of Rp73.9 trillion. The programme is also expected to drive economic growth through investment, domestic solar PV industry development, and the creation of green jobs.

Prabowo Launches 100 GW Solar Power Plant Development Project in Bali Today

President Prabowo Subianto has launched a programme to build 100 gigawatt peak of solar power capacity, with a target completion date of 2029. The initiative is part of the National Priority Programme for Energy and Water Independence and is expected to generate annual electricity cost savings of up to Rp73.9 trillion. The government also aims to strengthen the domestic solar photovoltaic industry and create green jobs.

Idrus Marham: NU Congress Must Not Just Elect Leaders, Candidates Must Honestly Assess Their Abilities

Senior politician Idrus Marham has urged that the 35th Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) Congress focus on the organisation's future direction rather than merely electing officials. He stressed that candidates must honestly assess their own competence and that the congress should prioritise deliberation and consensus. Marham also called for leadership based on capacity, commitment and clear concepts as NU enters its second century.

Foreign Tourist Drowns at Long Pink Beach, Komodo National Park

A female tourist, believed to be from China, drowned while snorkelling at Long Pink Beach in Komodo National Park, Labuan Bajo, on Tuesday morning. Emergency resuscitation was performed by fellow tourists, including medical personnel, while awaiting evacuation by the SAR team. The Labuan Bajo SAR post has coordinated with PT Palma Hijau Cemerlang to deploy a speedboat for evacuation.

Mayor rejects 'Gotham City' stigma attached to West Jakarta

West Jakarta Mayor Iin Mutmainah has rejected the 'Gotham City' label often applied to her area, insisting it does not reflect the reality of community life. She emphasised that maintaining security is a collective responsibility requiring collaboration between local government, law enforcement and residents. The mayor also urged parents to monitor their children more closely to prevent involvement in brawls and drugs.

Arabia in the Year of the Elephant: The Economy of Mecca at the Time of Prophet Muhammad's Birth

At the time of Prophet Muhammad's birth around 571 CE, Mecca had already developed a thriving economy despite its barren desert surroundings. The city relied on trade, caravan journeys, seasonal markets, and the flow of pilgrims to the Kaaba rather than agriculture. The Quraysh tribe played a central role in connecting Mecca to wider Arabian trade networks stretching from Yemen to Syria.

Forestry Ministry Sanctions Six Companies in Kalimantan over Forest and Land Fires

Indonesia's Ministry of Forestry has imposed administrative sanctions on six forest utilisation permit holders after repeated forest and land fires were detected in their concession areas, affecting a total of 1,511.55 hectares. The companies are required to improve their fire control systems and restore the damaged land, with one firm facing a licence freeze. The ministry has warned that sanctions could be escalated to permit revocation if obligations are not met.

Video: Supporting the Mimika Community, Freeport Disburses Rp 3 Trillion per Year

PT Freeport Indonesia (PTFI) has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the national economy through taxes, dividends, royalties and other levies, despite facing a challenging recovery period in 2026 following a mudslide at its Grasberg Block Cave underground mine. The company estimates its contribution to the state will reach Rp 47 trillion in 2026, rising to Rp 120 trillion per year by 2028 when full operations resume. PTFI is also strengthening coordination with local governments in Mimika and Central Papua to advance economic, social, cultural, infrastructure, SME, health and education programmes.

Eighth National KORPRI Quran Recitation Competition Opens, Makassar Mayor Highlights Economic Impact

The eighth National KORPRI Quran Recitation Competition (MTQ) has opened in Makassar, South Sulawesi, drawing around 1,157 participants from 117 delegations. Mayor Munafri Arifuddin emphasised that hosting the event brings significant economic benefits to the city, boosting local businesses, hospitality, and tourism. The city government has pledged maximum services to ensure the event runs smoothly.

US Prepares Sanctions on Buyers of Iranian Oil, China Pushes Back

The United States has announced a sweeping economic sanctions campaign, Operation Economic Outcast, threatening to cut off dollar-based financial access for any country still trading with Iran. The move targets Iran's oil exports, with China—the largest buyer—refusing to comply and calling for diplomatic dialogue. Tehran has vowed retaliation, while the US has not ruled out further military action.

US economic sanctions on Iran target five sectors

The United States has imposed new sectoral sanctions on Iran, focusing on digital assets, technology, gold, aviation, and shipping. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the measures target what he called Iran's five most vital lifelines used abroad. The sanctions also cover more than 60 entities, individuals, and vessels linked to Iran.

BTN Prepares Mortgage Tenor of Nearly Half a Century, 6 Percent Interest Per Month Until Paid Off

State-owned lender PT Bank Tabungan Negara (BTN) is introducing a subsidised mortgage scheme with a tenor of up to 40 years and a fixed interest rate of 6 percent until full repayment. The facility is aimed at widening access to affordable vertical housing at the Transit Oriented Development in Manggarai, Jakarta. The scheme was announced alongside the groundbreaking of the Manggarai housing project developed by KAI Properti.

Indonesia and China Focus on Developing AI and Maritime Cooperation

Indonesia and China have agreed to deepen cooperation in artificial intelligence, maritime security, green energy, and mining following their first Comprehensive Strategic Dialogue in Jakarta. The two nations are preparing a new Action Plan for 2027–2031 and strengthening institutional mechanisms including the 2+2 Dialogue. China also reaffirmed its commitment to help Indonesia industrialise its natural resources while both sides pledged to maintain peace in the South China Sea.

Odd-Even Free Day in Effect, Note the Date and Areas

Jakarta's odd-even traffic restriction will be suspended on Tuesday, 25 August 2026, in observance of the national holiday for the Prophet Muhammad's birthday. The suspension is based on Jakarta Governor Regulation No. 88 of 2019 and a joint ministerial decree on national holidays. The policy applies to all 26 roads in Jakarta that normally enforce the odd-even scheme.

Survey: 75 percent of Canadians support halting US trade negotiations

A new Angus Reid Institute poll shows overwhelming Canadian public support for the federal government's decision to withdraw from trade negotiations with the United States. The survey also reveals strong backing for retaliatory tariffs and optimism about Canada's long-term economic resilience, despite notable anxiety over potential job losses.

Pekanbaru Air Quality at Hazardous Level Due to Riau Forest Fires, Respiratory Infection Cases Rise

Air quality in Pekanbaru, Riau, has reached hazardous levels due to smoke from forest and land fires, with PM2.5 concentrations exceeding 500 µg/m³. The city health office has issued advisories urging residents to stay indoors and wear masks, while 376 acute respiratory infection cases have been recorded in the first three weeks of August. Authorities are on alert as the situation continues to pose serious health risks.

West Kalimantan Police Intensify Patrols and Cooling Operations Against Forest Fires in Kubu Raya

The West Kalimantan Regional Police have stepped up efforts to prevent forest and land fires in Kubu Raya through routine patrols, wetting, and cooling operations. Officers discovered residual embers beneath the surface in Limbung village and carried out immediate extinguishing measures. The police have urged the public to report any fire sightings promptly to prevent the spread of fires amid dry weather conditions.

Channelling Energy for Indonesia's Future

PLN Energi Gas faces a strategic challenge in managing Indonesia's growing gas logistics needs as power plant demand rises while pipeline supply contracts decline. The company must balance gas as a transitional buffer with the national shift towards renewables, ensuring investments remain modular and do not lock in fossil fuel dependence.

Anticipating Drought and Forest Fires, BMKG-BNPB Conduct Weather Modification

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG), together with the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) and other stakeholders, is carrying out weather modification operations to address water deficits in the Sepaku Reservoir and forest and land fires in East Kalimantan. The operations aim to optimise cloud potential to induce rainfall, as the region experiences prolonged dry spells and a significant increase in hotspots. The effort is part of broader measures to secure water supply for the new capital city, Nusantara, and mitigate the impact of El Niño.

Asset Forfeiture Bill Confirmed for Completion by December 2026

The House of Representatives Commission III has confirmed that the Asset Forfeiture Bill will be finalised by December 2026. Chairman Habiburokhman stated that the commission is accelerating the drafting process and will utilise the remaining eight weeks of the sitting period for hearings, harmonisation, and plenary approval. He noted that the majority of public input supports the bill, provided it is carefully drafted to prevent potential abuse of power by law enforcement.

Crossing into Singapore and Malaysia, Indonesia Could Be Dragged into International Law over Forest Fires

An international law expert warns that forest and land fires in Sumatra and Kalimantan could expose Indonesia to legal liability if transboundary haze again affects Malaysia and Singapore. The principle of state responsibility may apply because the hotspots are within Indonesian jurisdiction, raising questions about negligence and accountability. The expert urges transparent enforcement and investigation of concession holders, warning that deliberate inaction could amount to ecocide.

House Commission III Invites Public to Submit Written Input on Asset Forfeiture Bill

House of Representatives Commission III has opened a channel for the public to submit written input on the Asset Forfeiture Bill, citing limited remaining time for deliberation. Chairman Habiburokhman said the commission has held 35 public hearings and three regional working visits, with only about eight effective weeks left before the bill is targeted for plenary approval in December 2026. He noted that most public input supports swift enactment while urging careful drafting to prevent abuse of power by law enforcement.

Runaway Parking Tariffs in Central Bima City

Residents of Bima City, West Nusa Tenggara, have complained about illegal parking charges at public facilities, including the Paruga Nae Convention Hall, where attendants allegedly charge nearly three times the official rate. The city's transportation agency acknowledges the problem and says it is working to curb rogue parking attendants and enforce the use of official tickets.

Prabowo to Launch 100 GWp Solar Power Programme, Electricity Savings Projected at Rp73.9 Trillion

President Prabowo Subianto is set to launch and break ground on a 100 GWp solar power plant programme in Bali on 25 August 2026, targeting completion by 2029. The initiative aims to reduce Indonesia's dependence on fossil fuels and is projected to deliver annual electricity cost savings of Rp73.9 trillion. The government plans to build 30 GWp of solar capacity in 2026 alone while retiring 13 GW of diesel-fired power plants.

Unhan Issues Latest Circular on Muslim Female Cadets Wearing Hijab

The Indonesian Defence University (Unhan) has issued a new circular officially permitting Muslim female cadets to wear the hijab during all educational and training activities. The policy, signed by Vice Rector II Marsda Yusran Lubis, stipulates that black hijabs will be used temporarily until an official design is established. The decision is grounded in presidential and rectoral regulations, as well as a Ministry of Defence press release affirming there is no prohibition on hijab use for Unhan cadets.

Oil Prices Recover After Being Battered

Oil prices stabilised on Tuesday after falling more than 2% in the previous session as investors assessed the impact of tighter US secondary sanctions on Iran. The US Treasury Secretary announced expanded sanctions aimed at cutting off Iran's economic resources, while the Defence Secretary indicated Washington is prioritising economic pressure over military action. Analysts said the shift in approach eased concerns about physical supply disruptions from the Middle East, although risks to shipping in the Strait of Hormuz remain.

PDIP: Soekarno Cup instils fighting spirit in young talent

The Soekarno Cup 2026 youth football tournament is being framed by PDIP as more than a talent search, serving also as a vehicle for instilling the spirit of struggle and national character in young Indonesians. The final was held in Surabaya, the birthplace of Sukarno, at the Gelora Bung Tomo Stadium, symbolically uniting two key figures of Indonesia's independence struggle. Organisers hope participants will become not only skilled footballers but also disciplined, sportsmanlike individuals with big dreams for the nation.

Dedi Mulyadi Denies Rumour of Moving to PSI, Affirms He Remains in Gerindra

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has dismissed reports that he is leaving Gerindra for the Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI), calling the claim a hoax. He confirmed he remains Deputy Chairman of Gerindra's Board of Patrons. The denial comes as a separate survey shows public satisfaction with his performance as governor at 95.5 per cent.

Ende Earthquake Victims Urge Government to Repair Road Access Immediately

Residents of Ngalupolo village in Ende Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, have called on the government to urgently repair landslide-damaged roads that serve as their only route for mobility and economic activity. Deputy Governor Johni Asadoma visited affected areas, distributed humanitarian aid, and pledged that all damage would be recorded for follow-up action.

OJK Speaks Out on Bank Mandiri Account Freezing of AMPB Coordinator

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has stated that the freezing of a Bank Mandiri account belonging to Aliansi Masyarakat Pati Bersatu (AMPB) coordinator Supriyono was carried out in accordance with anti-money laundering regulations. The OJK is currently coordinating with Bank Mandiri and conducting further investigation into the matter. The authority emphasised that transaction holds are temporary and access will be restored if no criminal violation is found.

Independence of Sole Judge in Spotlight Ahead of Febrie Ardiansyah Pretrial Hearing

The appointment of Judge Richard Edwin Basoeki as sole judge in the pretrial hearing of former Jampidsus Febrie Adriansyah has drawn public attention, with his declared assets totalling Rp1.58 billion. Legal expert Abdul Fickar Hadjar has urged the judge to remain objective and independent, warning against external intervention. The pretrial verdict is scheduled for Thursday, 27 August.

Campus Autonomy and the Risk of Corruption

The article examines how increased financial autonomy for Indonesian state universities, particularly those with PTN-BH status, has created new corruption risks. It argues that pressure to generate revenue, combined with weak oversight and the concentration of power in administrative positions, has made student admissions and procurement vulnerable to abuse.

Debt Collector Arrested in West Jakarta After Threatening Customer with Neck Lock

A debt collector in West Jakarta has been arrested after threatening a customer with a neck lock during a vehicle repossession dispute at a petrol station. Police emphasised that while financing companies have legitimate rights to collect debts, intimidation and threats cross into criminal territory. The suspect faces charges under Articles 448 and 471 of the Indonesian Criminal Code.

APEC moves cut barriers for fast-growing services trade

APEC officials are developing an implementation plan for a new services roadmap aimed at reducing practical barriers to cross-border services trade, with a strong focus on digital trade and data flows. The initiative seeks to foster more open and resilient services sectors across the Asia-Pacific and will feed into broader efforts toward a Free Trade Area of the Asia-Pacific.

Chinese Emperor Admired Prophet Muhammad, Gave an Unexpected Epithet

Zhu Yuanzhang, founder of the Ming Dynasty, expressed admiration for the Prophet Muhammad in a text known as the 'Hundred-Word Praise'. The work reflects a period when Islam flourished in imperial China, with Muslims holding significant administrative, military and court positions. Researchers view the poem as evidence that the emperor understood Islamic teachings, even as Muslim communities gradually underwent sinicisation.

West Kalimantan Police SAR Team Patrols to Douse Burnt Land

The West Kalimantan Police SAR team has conducted patrols and cooling operations in fire-prone areas of Kubu Raya Regency to prevent forest and land fires from reigniting. Officers extinguished remaining embers and urged residents to report any fire hotspots. The police emphasised public vigilance amid dry weather conditions that heighten fire risks.

FIFGROUP Expands Kampung Sehat Benefits with Proper Sanitation and Stunting Prevention

FIFGROUP is expanding its Kampung Sehat CSR programme in 2026 with a more comprehensive approach, focusing on improving community sanitation and supporting nutrition and stunting prevention. The initiative includes continuing communal wastewater treatment plant (IPAL) construction in South Jakarta and Rangkasbitung, Banten, as well as expanding the SeCanting programme to four sub-districts in South Jakarta. The programme has benefited 1,218 people through IPAL and targets 120 children with poor nutrition and stunting through SeCanting.

Indonesia exports swiftlet nests worth US$172.15 million to China in H1 2026

China remains the dominant destination for Indonesian swiftlet nest exports, absorbing 80 per cent of total national shipments despite a four per cent decline in value to US$172.15 million in the first half of 2026. The Indonesian government continues to strengthen market access through bilateral trade forums and quarantine facilitation. Hong Kong and Singapore follow as the next largest markets, with additional shipments reaching the United States, Canada, and Australia.

Iran urges US to honour MoU to end conflict

Iran's Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has called on the United States to fulfil all provisions of a memorandum of understanding aimed at resolving their conflict, insisting Tehran will not yield to pressure. Ghalibaf made the remarks during a meeting in Tehran with Pakistan's Army Chief Asim Munir, who is acting as mediator. The conflict remains unresolved despite a halt in hostilities, with Washington increasing economic pressure on Iran.

Forestry Ministry Sanctions 6 Companies as Burned Areas Reach 1,511 Hectares

Indonesia's Forestry Ministry has imposed administrative sanctions on six forest utilisation permit holders after fires were detected across 1,511.55 hectares of their concessions in Kalimantan. Five companies face government enforcement orders, while PT MPK has had its business permit frozen due to extensive and repeated fires. The ministry warns that sanctions could escalate to permit revocation if companies fail to restore affected areas and improve fire control systems.

3 Investments Made by Prophet Muhammad That Can Serve as Examples

Prophet Muhammad was not only a religious leader but also a successful merchant who practised investment through livestock, land and property. His approach included profit-sharing arrangements such as mudharabah and a strong emphasis on charity. The article highlights these principles as timeless examples for modern investors.

Ajaib Strengthens Pension Fund Education Through BPJS Ketenagakerjaan's PEKA Programme

Indonesian investment platform Ajaib is supporting the government's PEKA programme, launched by BPJS Ketenagakerjaan, to improve pension fund literacy among benefit recipients. The initiative, inaugurated by Manpower Minister Yassierli in Bandung, reached 1,426 participants across 45 locations nationwide. Ajaib provided financial experts to help participants shift from consumptive to productive financial behaviour and build long-term economic independence.

Opinion: The meaning of 9.39 seconds for human ingenuity

A Chinese humanoid robot has broken Usain Bolt's 100-metre sprint record, clocking 9.39 seconds at the World Humanoid Robot Games in Beijing. The achievement highlights the rapid pace of robotics engineering, with the robot's time more than halved in a single year. The article argues that such competitive milestones ultimately serve to advance robots' real-world usefulness alongside humans.

Australian state pushes penguin vaccination to fight H5N1

Authorities in Victoria have begun vaccinating 5,000 little penguins at popular tourist sites to protect them from the highly pathogenic H5N1 bird flu strain. The programme targets colonies at Phillip Island and St Kilda, with a second dose planned within three to four weeks. State modelling suggests an outbreak could kill up to 40 per cent of the Phillip Island colony.

Habiburokhman Confirms Asset Forfeiture Bill to Be Completed by December 2026

The House of Representatives Commission III is accelerating deliberation of the Asset Forfeiture Bill, with a target for completion by December 2026. Chairman Habiburokhman stated that only about eight weeks of effective sitting time remain after recess periods. The commission has already held 35 public hearings and three regional working visits to gather input.

Land Fire in Kulon Progo, Flames Erupt Near Kamijoro Dam

A land fire broke out in Ngentakrejo, Kulon Progo, Yogyakarta, on Monday evening, with flames appearing near the Kamijoro Dam along the Progo River. Residents reported strong smoke odours from up to 20 kilometres away, while local authorities have warned of heightened fire risks during the dry season and El Niño conditions. The cause of the fire remains unknown.

China deepens energy industry cooperation with APEC partners

China is expanding energy cooperation with APEC economies, with over 30 percent of its crude oil and nearly 60 percent of its natural gas imports now sourced from APEC members. Chinese firms are actively involved in oil, gas and LNG infrastructure projects in Australia, Indonesia and Papua New Guinea. The cooperation spans conventional and new energy, power generation, trade, investment and infrastructure, with a growing focus on green energy and zero-carbon industrial zones.

MKGR Peduli Distributes Thousands of Food Packages and Clean Water to NTT Earthquake Victims

The MKGR mass organisation has distributed 2,500 food packages, medicines, and other essential supplies to five sub-districts affected by the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. The aid was delivered directly to residents in Kakor Village, Manggarai Regency, as part of the organisation's disaster response programme. Local officials expressed gratitude for the assistance, which aims to ease the burden on affected communities.

Ban on Land Clearing by Burning: PKB Reminds of Indigenous Communities' Fate

PKB politician Daniel Johan has urged the government to distinguish between large-scale land burning and controlled traditional practices by indigenous communities when revising regional regulations. He warned that a blanket ban could criminalise indigenous farmers who have practised controlled burning for generations. Johan also called for affordable alternatives and stronger enforcement against corporate concession holders rather than small farmers.

Polda Metro still awaiting forensic lab results on Sutrimo's death

Jakarta Metropolitan Police are awaiting forensic laboratory results to determine the exact cause of death of Sutrimo, a household head and caretaker for former junior attorney general for special crimes Febrie Adriansyah. Investigators have questioned 27 witnesses as part of the inquiry into the death, which is considered suspicious. The forensic results, including toxicology tests, are expected this week.

Andre Rosiade Oversees Rp218 Billion River Normalisation in Padang Pariaman

A river normalisation programme worth around Rp218 billion in Padang Pariaman, West Sumatra, is scheduled to begin in November 2026. Deputy Chairman of House Commission VI Andre Rosiade is overseeing the project and pushing for integrated handling that includes new road access in flood-affected areas. The initiative forms part of the central government's broader rehabilitation and reconstruction efforts in West Sumatra.

East Java Provincial Government and Bank Jatim Distribute Rp3.2 Billion in Aid to NTT

The East Java Provincial Government, together with Bank Jatim, has distributed social assistance worth Rp3.2 billion to communities affected by natural disasters in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT). The aid includes a Rp250 million donation for Bank NTT employees and 65.7 tonnes of essential supplies such as rice, medicine, and hygiene products. Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa stated that the support is intended to help residents through the emergency response period and into the early stages of recovery.

Jefri Nichol Comments on Bank Mandiri Account Freezing of AMPB Coordinator

Actor Jefri Nichol has publicly questioned Bank Mandiri's freezing of the account belonging to Supriyono, coordinator of the Pati United Community Alliance (AMPB), at the request of law enforcement. The Civil Society Coalition has condemned the action as unlawful and a threat to freedom of expression. Bank Mandiri has apologised and stated the freeze followed applicable procedures.

House Commission III Confirms Asset Forfeiture Bill to Be Passed into Law at December Plenary

House of Representatives Commission III has confirmed that deliberation of the Asset Forfeiture Bill is being accelerated, with the legislation targeted for enactment by December 2026 at the latest. Commission III Chairman Habiburokhman stated that the effective sitting time remaining for deliberation is only around eight weeks after recess periods are deducted. Public input has been gathered through 35 public hearing meetings and three regional working visits, with aspirations focused on full support for the bill and calls for careful drafting to prevent abuse of power.

Antam Logam Mulia Gold Price Jumps Rp18,000, Highest in 2.5 Months

The price of gold produced by PT Aneka Tambang (Antam) rose sharply by Rp18,000 to Rp2,768,000 per gram on Tuesday, reaching its highest level since 5 June 2026. The buyback price also strengthened by the same margin to Rp2,628,000 per gram. The increase extends a four-day rally that has added Rp123,000 to the price of Antam's Logam Mulia gold.

Tangerang PKBM head named corruption suspect, faces up to 20 years in prison

The head of a community learning centre in Tangerang Regency has been named a suspect in an alleged corruption case involving education operational assistance funds. Investigators say fictitious student data was used to obtain state funding between 2023 and 2025, causing estimated state losses of over Rp2 billion. The suspect faces a maximum sentence of 20 years under Indonesia's anti-corruption laws.

Dry season and forest fires: Why does land burn more easily?

As Indonesia enters the peak of the 2026 dry season, forest and land fires have intensified in Kalimantan and Sumatra, prompting government intervention. The article explains the scientific reasons why dry conditions make vegetation, soil and especially peatland far more susceptible to fire, while emphasising that human activity remains the primary ignition source.

Ruben Onsu's Business Ventures Under Scrutiny as He Is Named Suspect in Alleged Fraud Case

Indonesian celebrity Ruben Onsu has been named a suspect in an alleged fraud and embezzlement case by the South Jakarta Metropolitan Police. The case reportedly stems from a business and investment cooperation in which the complainant claims promised returns were never paid and the principal was not refunded. Onsu is known for a range of business interests, including property, digital content, nutrition products, and culinary ventures.

Response to AMPB Action Plan at DPR, BEM se-DKI Urges Dialogical Approach

The BEM Persatuan se-DKI Jakarta student alliance has urged the Aliansi Masyarakat Pati Bersatu (AMPB) to adopt a dialogical approach ahead of its planned protest at the DPR/MPR building on 27 August. The alliance released a five-point statement emphasising the importance of orderly, peaceful and responsible expression of aspirations. It called on all parties to maintain democratic space and prioritise constructive dialogue for the national interest.

8 dangers of burning rubbish carelessly for the environment

The Indonesian Ministry of Health warns that open burning of household waste, especially plastics, is a significant source of air pollution. The practice releases harmful pollutants that affect air, soil, and water quality, posing risks to human health and ecosystems. The ministry encourages waste sorting and proper management instead of burning.

Economist says Indonesia's transmigration areas right to become new economic centres

A University of Glasgow economist has backed Indonesia's plan to transform transmigration areas into new economic hubs, citing the country's strategic trade position and natural resources. The government's new paradigm prioritises creating economic opportunities and jobs before population movement. Five flagship programmes and a 2026 expedition involving 1,476 participants aim to build complete value chains in 53 transmigration areas.

Preventing Forest and Land Fires, Home Affairs Minister Stresses Local Government Involvement Down to Village Level

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian has urged regional governments to strengthen forest and land fire prevention by involving officials down to the village level. Speaking at a task force meeting in Palembang chaired by President Prabowo Subianto, he stressed that prevention must run alongside firefighting efforts. The minister also called for police and military territorial units to educate communities and warned of firm legal action against those who start fires.

Italian Woman Harassed at Lakey Beach Dompu, Suspect Arrested

An Italian tourist was sexually harassed by an intoxicated man while holidaying at Lakey Beach in Dompu, West Nusa Tenggara. The suspect was apprehended by police after being chased by the victim's companion and local residents. He has been transferred to Dompu Police headquarters for further processing.

Forests burned: Is reforestation or greening needed? Here's the difference

As Indonesia prioritises six provinces in Kalimantan and Sumatra for forest and land fire handling, the article clarifies the distinction between reforestation and greening. Reforestation applies to damaged forest areas, while greening covers land outside forest zones. The piece emphasises that post-fire recovery must consider ecosystem conditions, natural regeneration, and appropriate plant selection rather than simply maximising tree planting.

Exposed: How Large Companies Allegedly Use Locals to Burn Land

Riau Police have revealed a suspected modus operandi in which large companies allegedly use local farmers or residents to clear forest land by setting fires under the pretext of fishing. President Prabowo Subianto has ordered suspicious suspects to be brought to Jakarta for further investigation and has threatened to revoke the permits of companies that fail to prevent fires.

Health Ministry Deploys 206 Reserve Health Workers to Assist Earthquake Victims in NTT

Indonesia's Ministry of Health has dispatched 206 reserve health workers to East Nusa Tenggara to support medical services following a 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck Flores Island. The volunteers will serve for 14 days across six severely affected districts, where the disaster has killed 91 people and displaced over 160,000 residents. The deployment aims to reinforce local health workers and maintain essential services until regional health capacity is fully restored.

Viral Debt Collector Threatening Driver with Neck Lock in West Jakarta Ends at Police Station

A debt collector in West Jakarta has been arrested after a viral video showed him entering a car and threatening to put the driver in a neck lock over unpaid instalments. Police have charged the suspect under articles relating to coercion with threats and alleged assault. Authorities stressed that debt collection must follow legal mechanisms and not involve intimidation.

Prophet Muhammad's Birthday: Mobile SIM and Samsat services in Jakarta closed

The Jakarta Metropolitan Police Traffic Directorate has suspended driving licence (SIM) and mobile Samsat services on Tuesday, 25 August 2026, in observance of Prophet Muhammad's Birthday. Services will resume on Wednesday, 26 August, with special provisions for licence holders whose permits expire during the closure. Vehicle registration certificate (BPKB) services are also affected.

The Mystery of Lightning and Thunder Behind It: The Story of the Reneger Struck by Lightning in the Quran

This article explores Quranic verses and classical exegesis concerning lightning and thunder as signs of divine power. It recounts a traditional interpretation in which a disbeliever who challenged God was struck by lightning. The piece highlights theological perspectives on divine will and punishment.

Forestry Ministry sanctions six companies over recurring forest fires in Kalimantan

Indonesia's Forestry Ministry has imposed administrative sanctions on six forest utilisation permit holders after monitoring revealed recurring fires across 1,511.55 hectares of their concessions in Kalimantan. The companies are required to improve fire control systems and restore affected areas, with one firm facing a permit freeze due to the scale and repetition of fires. The ministry warned that criminal proceedings will follow if evidence of deliberate burning emerges.

Ruben Onsu named suspect, here is the chronology of his investment case

Celebrity Ruben Samuel Onsu has been named a suspect in an alleged fraud and embezzlement case involving investment funds, according to South Jakarta Metropolitan Police. The case stems from a business cooperation agreement in which the victim reportedly never received the promised profits or the return of their capital. Police have not detained Onsu and will schedule his questioning as a suspect next week.

Coal Surges for Six Days as China and Germany Face Supply Crises

Global coal prices have climbed for six consecutive sessions, approaching US$140 per tonne, driven by tightening supply in China and logistical challenges in Germany. Strict inspections in Shanxi province have slowed mine production recovery, while record-low water levels on the Rhine threaten coal deliveries to German power plants. Strong Asian energy demand and China's stimulus signals are adding further upward pressure.

Pekanbaru Blanketed by Haze, Air Quality Hazardous

The Indonesian city of Pekanbaru in Riau Province is shrouded in thick haze, with air quality reaching hazardous levels. The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) reported visibility of around two kilometres and PM2.5 concentrations peaking at 508.8 micrograms per cubic metre. Satellite monitoring detected 2,193 hotspots across Sumatra, with the largest land fires in Riau's Pelalawan and Indragiri Hulu regencies.

BAZNAS RI Distributes Family Logistics Packages to Earthquake Survivors in NTT

Indonesia's National Amil Zakat Agency (BAZNAS) has distributed 500 Family Logistics Packages to earthquake survivors in Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara. The aid, which includes staple foods, aims to ease the burden on displaced families during the emergency response period. BAZNAS plans to distribute up to 1,000 packages in stages and continues to provide food, field kitchens, water, emergency mosques, and health services.

Why do Indonesians often engage in small talk? Here is the reason

Small talk, or 'basa-basi', is a deeply embedded social practice in Indonesia that serves important functions beyond mere conversation. Research indicates it helps maintain familiarity, harmony, and politeness in social relationships. The practice acts as a social bridge, creating comfort and showing respect before more serious discussions.

Cabinet Secretary Teddy reviews dispatch of 31 tonnes of logistical aid to NTT

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya oversaw the departure of three Indonesian Air Force aircraft carrying 31 tonnes of relief supplies for communities affected by the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. The aid, flown from Halim Perdanakusuma Air Base, will be distributed via Labuan Bajo and Maumere airports. The government has emphasised the need for rapid and coordinated handling of the disaster response.

Habiburokhman: Asset Forfeiture Bill Confirmed for Completion by December 2026

The House of Representatives Commission III is accelerating the drafting of the Asset Forfeiture Bill, with Chairman Habiburokhman confirming it will be passed by December 2026 at the latest. With only about eight weeks of effective sitting time remaining, the commission plans to complete public consultations, harmonisation, and working meetings with the government. Habiburokhman noted that the majority of the public supports the bill, provided it is carefully drafted to prevent potential abuse of power by law enforcement.

Top 10 Indonesian universities in QS WUR 2027, UI leads

The QS World University Rankings 2027 places Universitas Indonesia as the top Indonesian university at 191st globally, followed by UGM and Universitas Airlangga. A total of 20 Indonesian higher education institutions made the list, down from 26 in the previous edition. The rankings assess academic reputation, employability, research, international engagement, learning experience, and sustainability.

Tax does not stop at the counter

Surabaya is expanding vehicle tax payment channels through ATM Samsat QRIS, sub-district offices, and public spaces such as car free day. The initiative aims to reduce administrative barriers and improve compliance among the city's 3.85 million registered vehicles. However, officials acknowledge that easier payment alone does not resolve issues such as unregistered ownership transfers and outdated vehicle data.

Bekasi Waste-to-Energy Plant Construction to Be Inaugurated on Wednesday

The Indonesian government is accelerating the development of Waste-to-Energy (PSEL) facilities to address the national waste emergency, with the Bekasi PSEL project being inaugurated on Wednesday at Bantargebang. Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan stated that PSEL facilities in 40 major cities with waste volumes exceeding 1,000 tonnes per day are targeted for completion by 2027-2028. The government also plans to require households to separate organic and inorganic waste at source through upcoming regional regulations.

Iran Says Partner Countries Unaffected by US Threat to Sever Relations

Iran's parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has dismissed US threats to sanction countries that maintain economic ties with Tehran, saying Washington is not in an economic position to restrict other nations' relationships. The remarks follow US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent's warning of new sanctions targeting Iran's trading partners, though the threatened 'Economic D-Day' measures have been postponed. Tehran claims its trade partners have indicated they do not take the US statements seriously.

Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim Writes to Prabowo, Here Is the Full Content

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has written to Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto seeking assistance over Felda's troubled investment in PT Eagle High Plantations Tbk, which could result in losses of up to RM2.5 billion. The letter requests a review of the matter, which is currently undergoing legal proceedings in Indonesia. Anwar emphasised the need for governance, integrity, and accountability in Felda's recovery efforts.

South Sumatra Police Say 17 Suspects Detained in Forest and Land Fire Cases

South Sumatra Regional Police have handled 15 police reports related to forest and land fires in 2026 and detained 17 suspects. The announcement was made during a forest fire prevention meeting led by President Prabowo Subianto in Palembang. Police emphasised that law enforcement serves as a deterrent while prevention remains the primary focus.

Garibaldi to Transit in Jeddah and Colombo Before Arriving in Indonesia

The Italian aircraft carrier ITS Giuseppe Garibaldi has departed Taranto and is scheduled to arrive in Indonesia in mid-to-late September 2026. The vessel will transit the Suez Canal with stopovers in Jeddah and Colombo before proceeding to Lampung and Jakarta. Indonesian Navy personnel are being accompanied by Italian Navy officers to operate the Fincantieri-built carrier.

DPR Seeks Explanation from Bank Mandiri over Blocked Accounts of Pati Activists

The House of Representatives (DPR) will ask Bank Mandiri to explain why it blocked the accounts of activists from Pati, Central Java. Deputy Speaker Cucun Ahmad Syamsurizal said the DPR had received the Pati People's Communication Forum in an audience and would seek clarification on the legal basis for the freeze. He noted that Bank Mandiri is part of the state-owned banks association Himbara.

The Felda Investment Case: RM2.5 Billion Loss and a Letter from the Malaysian PM to Prabowo

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has written to President Prabowo Subianto regarding Felda's troubled investment in PT Eagle High Plantations, which could result in losses of up to RM2.5 billion. The investment, made in 2016 for US$505.4 million, is currently subject to legal proceedings in Indonesia. Anwar emphasised the need for governance and accountability as Felda seeks to recover from the financial crisis.

4 Things to Know Ahead of the Velodrome-Manggarai LRT Inauguration

The Velodrome-Manggarai LRT in Jakarta is fully complete and set to be inaugurated by President Prabowo Subianto, with the DKI Jakarta provincial government proposing 26 August 2026. The line will operate from 05.00 to 24.00 WIB with a temporary flat fare of Rp5,000, and is expected to carry 60,000 to 80,000 passengers initially. Pedestrian access connecting the LRT station to Manggarai KRL station is targeted for completion in September 2026.

Hanura Urges Firm Sanctions for Forest Fire Perpetrators: Harming the Nation and Other Countries

The Hanura Party has called on President Prabowo Subianto to impose strict sanctions on those responsible for forest and land fires in Indonesia. Deputy Chairman Patrice Rio Capella described the fires as an annual problem that damages Indonesia's international reputation, noting that smoke from the blazes forced the closure of 15 schools in Malaysia. He urged both central and regional governments to take more serious preventive measures.

Danantara Housing Expo 2026: SIG Showcases Earthquake-Resistant Precision Interlock Bricks

PT Semen Indonesia (SIG) has unveiled its Precision Interlock Brick housing innovation at the Danantara Housing Expo 2026, promoting faster and more sustainable construction methods. The bricks are designed to interlock without mortar, reducing material use and construction time while offering proven earthquake resistance for high-seismicity zones. SIG sees the expo as a platform to expand collaboration with government, developers, and contractors to support the national housing ecosystem.

Pekanbaru shrouded in hazardous haze from forest and land fires

Thick haze from forest and land fires has blanketed Pekanbaru, Riau, reducing visibility to around two kilometres and pushing air quality into the hazardous category. BMKG recorded PM2.5 concentrations as high as 508.8 micrograms per cubic metre, far above safe limits. Satellite monitoring detected 2,193 hotspots across Sumatra, with South Sumatra and Riau the largest contributors.

Danantara Claims Rp330 Trillion Profit, Does It Really Beat Temasek?

Indonesia's sovereign wealth fund Danantara has claimed a net profit of Rp330 trillion, with its COO asserting the figure surpasses Singapore's Temasek Holdings. However, Danantara's consolidated financial statements have not yet been published or audited, making direct comparison difficult. Temasek's audited results show a group net profit of SGD32.4 billion, equivalent to approximately Rp451.66 trillion, significantly higher than the figure cited by Danantara.

Bogor People's School Begins MPLS, Focused on Decile 1 and 2 Groups

The Integrated People's School (SRT) 1 in Bogor Regency has commenced its school orientation period (MPLS) with 1,080 students from Indonesia's lowest welfare brackets. Built by state-owned construction firm PT Brantas Abipraya, the 6.96-hectare campus includes dormitories and complete educational facilities. The project forms part of the government's People's School programme aimed at expanding educational access for underprivileged families.

BMKG warns Pekanbaru air quality hazardous due to haze

The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has warned that air quality in Pekanbaru, Riau, has reached hazardous levels as thick haze from forest and land fires reduces visibility to around two kilometres. PM2.5 concentrations exceeded 500 micrograms per cubic metre in the early hours of Tuesday. The agency also recorded hundreds of hotspots across Riau, with Pelalawan and Indragiri Hilir regencies the worst affected.

Civil Servants Threatened by AI, Golkar Legislator Urges Government to Prepare Strategy

A Golkar lawmaker has called on the government to develop a grand strategy for adapting the civil service to artificial intelligence, arguing that technological change should be framed as an adjustment to optimise public services rather than simple job cuts. His remarks follow a House commission meeting where another legislator questioned whether digitalisation would reduce staffing needs in district offices.

Kodam XXII/Tambun Bungai Builds 1,000 Boreholes to Tackle Forest and Land Fires in Central Kalimantan

Kodam XXII/Tambun Bungai is constructing approximately 1,000 boreholes across Central Kalimantan to strengthen water availability for forest and land fire prevention and response. The initiative utilises drilling machines provided by President Prabowo Subianto through the Ministry of Defence. The boreholes are being prioritised in areas with limited water access and high fire risk to support the readiness of the forest and land fire task force.

Bank Sinarmas Takes This Step to Boost Circular Economy Adoption

Bank Sinarmas marked its 37th anniversary by launching a tree planting and adoption programme in Bali and West Java, combining agroforestry with local microorganism technology. The initiative aims to rehabilitate degraded land, strengthen community economies, and promote sustainable food security. The bank says the programme reflects circular economy principles by turning livestock and organic waste into planting media and fertiliser.

Want to Be Liked by Your Boss and Earn a Big Salary? Follow Prophet Muhammad's Example

Before his prophethood, Prophet Muhammad built a reputation as an honest and trustworthy worker, first as a shepherd and later managing trade caravans for Khadijah. His integrity and strong work ethic led to higher pay, increased profits, and eventually marriage to his employer. The article highlights Islamic principles on fair wages and the value of building a solid professional reputation.

Police Send 1,500 Oxygen Cylinders to Sumatra and Kalimantan to Tackle Forest Fires

The Indonesian National Police has dispatched logistical aid, firefighting equipment and 1,500 oxygen cylinders to support efforts to tackle forest and land fires in Sumatra and Kalimantan. The initial shipment is prioritised for West Kalimantan, with further deliveries planned for other affected provinces. The assistance aims to protect public health and support personnel battling the blazes.

France and Saudi Arabia Agree on Three Dragon Ball Z-Themed Amusement Park Project

France and Saudi Arabia have agreed a €6 billion (around Rp127 trillion) partnership to build three amusement parks near Paris, including a manga-themed attraction inspired by the Japanese franchise Dragon Ball Z. The project will be led by Saudi Arabia's Qiddiya Investment Company and is expected to create around 2,000 jobs. The deal forms part of Saudi Arabia's economic diversification strategy away from oil dependence.

Motive Behind Bizarre Action of Sumber Selamat Bus Circling Siyono Roundabout

A Sumber Selamat bus was recorded circling the Siyono Roundabout in Gunungkidul, an act authorities believe was deliberate rather than the driver being lost. The Gunungkidul Transportation Agency suspects the driver was seeking to be captured on CCTV to gain viral attention. Officials have urged road users to prioritise safety and not repeat the stunt.

In TIM, Berlin and Jakarta Meet in Brushstrokes on Canvas

An art exhibition at Taman Ismail Marzuki in Jakarta showcases collaborative paintings by 27 Indonesian artists, including former president Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, alongside German artist Christopher Lehmpfuhl. The event highlights the 31-year sister city partnership between Jakarta and Berlin, which focuses on smart city development, green digital innovation, sustainable transport, and culture. Lehmpfuhl, known for his plein air finger-painting technique, described Jakarta as a vast, colourful urban landscape that presented a significant artistic challenge.

Rumours of Dedi Mulyadi Moving to PSI, Gerindra Speaks Out

West Java Gerindra has dismissed speculation that Governor Dedi Mulyadi is planning to leave the party for the Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI). Party officials say Dedi has publicly reaffirmed his support for Prabowo Subianto and shows no signs of switching allegiance. PSI has also denied any communication with Dedi about joining the party.

Schedule for the Bayan Mulud Adat in North Lombok, Featuring A Thousand Jong and Peresean

The traditional Mulud Adat Bayan ceremony in North Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara, will take place from 27 to 29 August 2026. The event commemorates the birth of Prophet Muhammad SAW and features a series of cultural activities including the A Thousand Jong parade and a Peresean stick-fighting ritual. Visitors are welcome to attend and are expected to wear traditional cloth or attire.

More Than Critical! Volkswagen Faces Factory Closures

Volkswagen CEO Oliver Blume has described the company's situation as 'more than critical' amid global automotive pressures, Chinese competition, and potential plant closures. The German carmaker is considering significant job cuts and cannot currently see a path to profitability for several factories in the 2030s. Blume also highlighted overcapacity in Europe and additional challenges including US tariffs and regulatory burdens.

Cross-Sector Synergy: Government Combines Forces to Control Forest and Land Fires

Indonesia's National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has issued an official response regarding the handling of forest and land fires currently affecting several regions. The government is conducting integrated operations involving local administrations, the military, police, and other stakeholders. Efforts include ground and air operations, water bombing, and weather modification.

Rosan Announces DSI Management, Cipung Noer as President Commissioner and Luke Mahony as CEO

Danantara Indonesia CEO Rosan Roeslani has unveiled the management structure of PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia (DSI), appointing Cipung Noer as President Commissioner and Luke Mahony as CEO. The state-owned export company, established under Government Regulation 24/2026, has already built analytical visibility over approximately 6,500 export declarations worth more than US$14 billion since beginning operations on 1 June 2026. DSI aims to strengthen transparency and governance in Indonesia's strategic commodity exports, with initial analysis suggesting potential value optimisation of around US$5 billion per year.

Trump Administration Proposes H-1B Visa Fee Increase to Rp1.8 Billion for Hiring Foreign Workers

The Trump administration has proposed an additional fee of US$103,265 for H-1B visa applications, months after a federal judge struck down a previous attempt to impose a US$100,000 charge. The measure is intended to recover immigration system operating costs and encourage domestic hiring, though it remains subject to a 30-day public comment period and potential legal challenges.

Ahead of Israeli Election, Netanyahu Accuses Iran of Attempting to Kill One of His Sons

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has accused Iran of plotting to assassinate one of his sons, citing security assessments that he and his family will face high threat levels for life. The claim comes just weeks before Israel's general election scheduled for 27 October. Israeli security agencies, including Shin Bet and Mossad, reportedly concluded that enemies seek retaliation for operations and killings carried out during the war.

Kelapa Gading-Manggarai LRT to Begin Operations, DPRD Calls for Integration with TransJakarta and KRL

The Jakarta Regional House of Representatives has welcomed the imminent full operation of the Kelapa Gading-Manggarai LRT route, scheduled for 26 August 2026. Deputy Speaker Rany Maulani stressed that the line's effectiveness in reducing congestion will depend heavily on seamless integration with TransJakarta, KRL, and MRT services, as well as comfortable first-mile and last-mile access. She also called for periodic evaluation of the LRT's performance, particularly in shifting private vehicle users to public transport.

Indonesia-Canada Have Trade Cooperation Up To 3.1 Billion US Dollars, Ministry Of Trade

Indonesia and Canada have concluded the first round of negotiations for the Indonesia-Canada Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, with a target of completion by the end of 2023. The agreement aims to boost Indonesian exports to North America, increase trade in services, attract foreign investment, and support priority sectors including MSMEs. Bilateral trade between the two countries reached US$3.1 billion in 2021, with Indonesia recording a trade deficit as imports from Canada exceeded exports.

Public Unease as Threat of Mass Unemployment Looms

Global workers remain anxious about AI-driven job losses, with 53% of Americans fearing the technology could displace family members' livelihoods. Corporate leaders are being urged to adopt more transparent and humane communication strategies, shifting the narrative from cost-cutting to business acceleration. Some companies, such as Torani, have committed to zero layoffs despite technological change.

Why Shell Exited Indonesian Fuel Retail, and What Sefas Group Faces Next

Sefas Group, a long-standing Indonesian distributor of Shell lubricants, has agreed to acquire Shell's entire downstream retail network of roughly 200 fuel stations, subject to regulatory approval. Shell's exit is driven by global strategic divestment, restrictive fuel import quotas, and competition from state-subsidised Pertamina. The deal transfers supply-chain and regulatory risks to Sefas, which must now secure fuel supply, maintain competitive pricing, and adapt to a transforming energy retail market.

Ministry Prioritises Revitalisation of Schools Affected by Flores Earthquake

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has pledged to prioritise the revitalisation of schools damaged by the recent earthquake in Flores, East Nusa Tenggara. Minister Abdul Mu'ti confirmed that affected schools will receive priority in the national revitalisation programme scheduled for 2026, with emergency aid already distributed to Nagekeo and Ngada regencies. The government is currently conducting detailed damage assessments to determine the scale of reconstruction required.

Mualem Appoints Taufik as Acting Aceh Regional Secretary After Nasir Dismissed by Prabowo

Aceh Governor Muzakir Manaf has appointed Taufik as acting regional secretary following the formal dismissal of M. Nasir through Presidential Decree Number 95/TPA of 2026. Nasir was simultaneously installed as head of the Aceh Library and Archives Agency in a hybrid ceremony. The dismissal was ordered by President Prabowo Subianto and communicated to the provincial government for immediate follow-up.

Prabowo Tours Provinces to Inspect Forest and Land Fire Handling

President Prabowo Subianto conducted a working tour across Kalimantan and Sumatra to directly inspect the handling of forest and land fires. The visits aimed to ensure that firefighting efforts are fast, coordinated, and effective, while emphasising prevention as the top priority. Prabowo instructed officials to educate communities against slash-and-burn land clearing and to provide government assistance for lawful land opening.

Pigai Criticises Energy Minister Over Freeport Share Divestment: Should Belong to Central Papua

Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai has challenged the planned distribution of a 10 percent stake in PT Freeport Indonesia to six Papuan provinces, arguing it should belong solely to Central Papua where the mine operates. He questioned the legal basis for sharing the benefits with other provinces and said he has raised his objections directly with President Prabowo Subianto.

Destry Damayanti Sole Candidate for Bank Indonesia Governor, Anwar Abbas Offers Advice

President Prabowo Subianto has nominated Destry Damayanti as the sole candidate for the permanent Governor of Bank Indonesia, with a fit and proper test scheduled before House Commission XI. Muhammadiyah leader Anwar Abbas has expressed confidence in her experience while urging her to build strong coordination with financial authorities and address pressing economic challenges.

Gold Prices Soar to 3-Month High, Approaching US$4,700

Gold prices surged to their highest level in more than three months, driven by technical buying, a weaker US dollar, and positive sentiment following the US Treasury's bond buyback announcement. The precious metal closed at US$4,651.27 per troy ounce on Monday and continued rising in early Tuesday trading. Analysts note that both fundamentals and technicals are supporting the bullish trend, with ETF inflows reaching their largest in 10 months.

Seroja Weaving Survives with Six Elderly Artisans

Seroja Weaving, a traditional endek cloth business in Denpasar, Bali, is facing extinction as its workforce has dwindled from around 50 artisans to just six, all aged between 60 and 70. The lack of younger generations willing to learn the craft threatens the continuity of the business, which has operated since the 1960s. However, online sales through platforms like Instagram and Shopee have provided a lifeline, expanding the market beyond Bali to Jakarta and Yogyakarta.

South Korea and US vow close cooperation on North Korea

South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio agreed to maintain close coordination on the North Korean nuclear issue, though Seoul's statement notably omitted the usual commitment to denuclearisation. The talks come amid tensions over President Trump's outreach to Kim Jong Un and his criticism of Seoul, raising concerns about alliance strain. Both sides also discussed pending issues including tariffs, investment, and security cooperation.

Giant Volcano in Europe Erupts, One City Lost and 2,000 People Killed

The eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD buried the prosperous city of Pompeii, killing around 2,000 people in as little as 15 minutes. Modern research indicates the deadly pyroclastic cloud reached temperatures above 100 degrees Celsius, leaving residents no chance to escape. The city remained lost for 17 centuries until its rediscovery in 1748.

Dudung: Forest and land fire handling must be swift and firm

Presidential Chief of Staff Dudung Abdurachman has stressed that forest and land fire management must be rapid, coordinated, and firm against legal violators. He noted President Prabowo Subianto's directive for strict action against those proven to have broken the law. The government is particularly concerned about the health and safety impacts of the fires, especially on children and the elderly.

House Member BHS Urges Acceleration of Public Facility Recovery in Nagekeo, NTT

House of Representatives member Bambang Haryo Soekartono has called for the acceleration of public facility restoration in Nagekeo Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, following earthquake damage. He highlighted the need to restore essential services across 113 villages in 13 sub-districts, including schools, hospitals, roads, ports, and housing. BHS also conveyed the regent's aspirations to the DPR and coordinated with relevant government agencies on disaster management and infrastructure recovery.

Indonesia expansion brings new licensing and compliance requirements

The article indicates that businesses expanding into Indonesia will face new licensing and compliance obligations. While the full content is inaccessible due to a bot verification page, the headline suggests regulatory changes affecting market entry. This is relevant for firms navigating Indonesia's evolving business environment.

Minister of Religious Affairs: KORPRI MTQ as a means of shaping character and ethics of civil servants

Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar has emphasised that the VIII KORPRI Musabaqah Tilawatil Quran should be seen as a means of shaping the character and ethics of Indonesia's civil servants, rather than merely a competition. He called for Quranic values to be internalised in the workplace to build a bureaucracy with moral integrity and social sensitivity. The minister stressed that public service must reflect constitutional mandate and the principle of rahmatan lil alamin.

Cable Car Option in Puncak Bogor, House Commission V Urges Mature Planning

Deputy Chairman of House Commission V Syaiful Huda has cautioned that a proposed cable car in Puncak, Bogor, must be carefully planned if it is intended to serve as public transport. He stressed that the system would be ineffective in reducing congestion unless integrated with other transport modes. The Bogor Regency administration has revived the plan, proposing the cable car as an alternative to ease traffic and connect with a planned electric bus route.

Cipamingkis River Dries Up, Residents Cry Out Over Water Shortages

A prolonged dry season of more than three months has triggered a water crisis in Cibarusah and the Cipamingkis River Basin in Bekasi Regency, leaving residents struggling to meet household, livestock and agricultural needs. The river's flow has shrunk dramatically, with dams reduced to shallow pools, while land-use changes in the upstream area have diminished water absorption and spring sources. The situation underscores the urgent need for ecosystem restoration, improved irrigation and better water management.

Singapore to Provide Child Allowances of Nearly Rp1 Billion Over 17 Years

Singapore has announced a new SG Child Support Package that will provide direct financial support of nearly S$70,000 (approximately Rp975.8 million) for each child until they turn 17. The scheme replaces the existing Baby Bonus and Large Families Schemes, offering increased benefits, particularly for first-born children. Prime Minister Lawrence Wong revealed the policy during the National Day Rally, noting that over 610,000 children in 380,000 households could benefit from the package.

Jakarta yesterday: Jaksinema inauguration to Manggarai LRT fare

A roundup of key developments in Jakarta includes the inauguration of the Jaksinema cinema at Pasar Rumput flats and the confirmation of a flat Rp5,000 fare for the Kelapa Gading-Manggarai LRT until October 2026. Other items cover a house renovation programme, completion of the LRT route, and food safety sampling in the Seribu Islands.

Yesterday's crime: debt collector case and AMPB fund collection account

Jakarta police have arrested a debt collector accused of forcing his way into a moving car and assaulting the driver in West Jakarta. Separately, Polda Metro Jaya clarified that the action taken against accounts used to collect funds for the Aliansi Masyarakat Pati Bersatu (AMPB) was a five-working-day transaction suspension, not a seizure or freezing of the accounts.

Yesterday: Aid for NTT schools to sanctions related to forest fires

The Indonesian government has disbursed Rp860 million in aid for schools affected by the Flores earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara, while the death toll from the disaster has risen to 100. Authorities are also investigating potential criminal activity behind forest and land fires, with more than 30 companies facing possible sanctions totalling nearly Rp15 trillion.

6 Facts About the Deadly Fire in Tebet That Caused Residents to Jump from the Second Floor

A fire broke out in a boarding house and photocopy business in Tebet, South Jakarta, in the early hours of Monday, killing four people and injuring one. The blaze is suspected to have been caused by an electrical fault, and residents described jumping from the second floor to escape. Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has pledged full support for the victims' families while police and forensic teams investigate the cause.

House Prices Collapse! Chinese Property Tycoon Sentenced to Life in Prison

Hui Ka Yan, founder of China Evergrande and once Asia's richest man, has been sentenced to life imprisonment as China's property crisis enters its sixth year. The prolonged downturn has devastated household wealth, forced China to rely heavily on exports, and triggered global trade tensions. Analysts warn the systemic crisis is far from over, with some predicting house prices may need to fall a further 40% to reach equilibrium.

BMKG forecasts mostly clear to thick cloudy weather across Indonesia

The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has forecast that most major Indonesian cities will experience clear cloudy, cloudy, to thick cloudy conditions on Tuesday. Light rain is expected in several areas including Medan, Pekanbaru, Padang, Bengkulu, Bandung, and Tanjung Selor, while haze is predicted for Jambi, Palembang, and other locations. The agency has urged the public to keep updated through its official website and social media channels.

ASEAN Sports Day 2026 to be Held in Sleman, Carrying Sports Diplomacy Mission and Promoting 'Gemar'

Sleman Regency in Yogyakarta will host ASEAN Sports Day 2026 from 31 August to 6 September, with additional events on 20 and 27 September. The event aims to strengthen sports diplomacy among ASEAN nations and partner countries while promoting Indonesia's 'Gemar' (Active and Fit Community Movement) campaign. Organisers hope the activities will boost public participation in sport, support mental health, and stimulate the local economy.

InterSystems Asia READY 2026 to Showcase AI-Ready Healthcare

InterSystems will host its Asia READY 2026 conference in Bangkok, focusing on how trusted data, interoperability, and practical AI can accelerate smarter healthcare delivery. The event aims to strengthen Thailand's position as a regional medical hub by addressing challenges such as fragmented legacy systems and workforce readiness. Healthcare leaders from across Asia will share case studies and best practices for implementing AI-enabled healthcare at scale.

Prophetic Biography for Our Time

Ustadz Fahmi Salim argues that the Sirah Nabawiyah should not be reduced to a mere collection of historical dates and events, but understood as a living history that demonstrates how revelation shapes human character and civilisation. He contends that studying the Prophet Muhammad's life offers a remedy for modern forms of servitude to materialism, popularity, and power. The article emphasises that genuine love for the Prophet grows from knowledge of his life and must translate into emulation of his example.

Jakarta Government Confident Kelapa Gading-Manggarai LRT Will Help Ease Congestion: Integration Is Key

The Jakarta provincial government believes the new Kelapa Gading-Manggarai LRT route will encourage residents to abandon private vehicles, reducing congestion and pollution. Special Staff to the Governor Chico Hakim highlighted direct connectivity to Manggarai Station, which links KRL, airport rail, and TransJakarta services, as the key factor. Final fares are expected to be decided in October after operational data is evaluated.

Trump Tariff Threat: Mark Carney Says US Wants to Destroy Canada's Automotive Industry

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has accused US President Donald Trump of seeking to destroy Canada's automotive industry after Trump threatened to raise tariffs on Canadian vehicles and parts from 25% to 50%. Carney said Canada remains open to negotiations if the US comes with the right attitude, but is prepared to retaliate with dollar-for-dollar tariffs. The escalating dispute has raised concerns about the future of the USMCA trade pact, which underpins US$1.6 trillion in trade.

DKI Jakarta Regional Bonds to Fund LRT Extension to Dukuh Atas

The Jakarta provincial government has confirmed it will proceed with the construction of the LRT Jakarta extension to Dukuh Atas, with an estimated budget of Rp 2.7 trillion. The project is expected to be financed through regional bonds worth Rp 5.6 trillion, which will also fund health infrastructure. Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo stated that construction is planned to begin in 2027, pending final approvals from the central government.

Global Economy at Risk as US Prepares Fresh Offensive and Iran Threatens Retaliation

The United States is preparing to announce its largest-ever financial sanctions campaign against Iran, targeting third countries that continue trading with Tehran. Iran has responded by threatening to halt all oil exports from the Gulf if the economic war continues, raising the prospect of severe disruption to global energy markets.

Singapore to Create 'Three in One' Island Through Massive Land Reclamation

Singapore has announced plans to reclaim land and merge three southern islands—Semakau, Bukom, and Sudong—into a single large island modelled on Jurong Island. Prime Minister Lawrence Wong revealed the proposal during the National Day Rally 2026, stating it would support new power generation infrastructure and military needs. The project is intended to underpin Singapore's economic development for the next 50 years and beyond.

MUI Chairman Highlights High Divorce Rate Due to Economic Problems

The chairman of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI), KH M. Anwar Iskandar, has expressed concern over the persistently high divorce rate in Indonesia, attributing most cases to economic hardship. Speaking at an event in Semarang, he urged the MUI to prioritise economic empowerment initiatives for the community. He stressed that tackling the issue requires collaboration between the government, businesses, and various segments of society.

Prophet Muhammad's Birthday: Time to Emulate the Prophet Through Four Foundations of Life

A senior figure at the Indonesian Islamic Da'wah Council has urged Muslims to use the Prophet Muhammad's birthday as a moment for deep reflection rather than mere ceremony. Ustaz Ahmad Zuhdi highlighted four core principles from the Prophet's teachings—purifying intentions, valuing time, fostering empathy, and maintaining integrity and lawful sustenance—as essential guides for daily life.

Road to Kelingking Beach in Nusa Penida Upgraded Ahead of Tourist Levy Implementation

The Klungkung Regency administration is accelerating road improvements to Kelingking Beach on Nusa Penida ahead of the introduction of a tourist destination levy on 1 September 2026. The works include a Rp 5.9 billion upgrade of the Telaga-Klumpu road, funded through the regional budget and special allocation funds. The levy revenue will be distributed through a one-gate system, with 55 percent allocated to local government public services.

Aircraft Carrier Garibaldi Passes Through Suez Canal to Indonesia, Escorted by Italian Frigate

The Italian-built aircraft carrier ITS Giuseppe Garibaldi has departed Taranto, Italy, and is scheduled to arrive in Indonesia in mid-September 2026. Upon arrival, the vessel will be renamed KRI Gajah Mada and fly the Indonesian flag. The Indonesian Navy Chief has requested public prayers for the ship's safe passage through the Suez Canal and Red Sea, where it is being escorted by Italian frigates.

New Zealand Drafts Bill to Ban Social Media for Children Under 16

New Zealand has introduced an Online Safety Bill that would require major social media platforms to prevent children under 16 from using their services, with penalties of up to 10% of global revenue for non-compliance. Prime Minister Christopher Luxon argues the measure is necessary to protect children's mental health and development, though the bill faces opposition from coalition partners Act and New Zealand First. The proposal follows Australia's similar ban, which critics have labelled difficult to enforce.

Pacitan Resident Steals Rp350 Million in Gold Just to Fund Online Gambling

Police in Pacitan, East Java, have arrested a man suspected of stealing gold jewellery and cash worth Rp350 million from an elderly neighbour's home. The suspect admitted that all the proceeds were used to feed his online gambling addiction. He faces up to seven years in prison under the new Criminal Code.

ANTARA Director Attends Kraton Majapahit Jakarta

The Director of ANTARA, Benny Siga Butarbutar, joined former BIN chief AM Hendropriyono and Navy Chief of Staff Admiral Muhammad Ali in a visit to Kraton Majapahit Jakarta. The gathering served as a friendly visit and an opportunity to reflect on Indonesia's maritime heritage, particularly the naval prowess of the nation's ancestors.

Solo Palace Sekaten Gamelan Dispute: Purbaya Faction Reports LDA to Police

The Purbaya faction of the Surakarta Palace has filed a police report against the Palace's Customary Council (LDA) over the alleged theft or embezzlement of three sets of Sekaten gamelan. The report follows an unanswered summons demanding clarification on the relocation of the instruments. The LDA maintains the gamelan were moved to protect them from a deteriorating building ahead of planned revitalisation works.

US Cancels War Drill with South Korea, China and North Korea Could Benefit

The United States has cancelled a large-scale amphibious landing exercise with South Korea scheduled for September 2026, citing troop shortages due to the war with Iran. The cancellation of the Ssangyong exercise removes a key opportunity for combined US-South Korean forces to rehearse complex joint operations. Analysts suggest the move could be exploited by China and North Korea as Washington shifts military assets away from Asia.

NasDem DKI Supports Rp 5,000 LRT Kelapa Gading-Manggarai Fare: Ideal

Jakarta DPRD Deputy Speaker Wibi Andrino has welcomed the launch of the LRT Jakarta Kelapa Gading-Manggarai route, describing the temporary Rp 5,000 fare as ideal for encouraging a shift from private vehicles to public transport. The 12.2 km route with 11 stations is scheduled to begin full operations on 26 August 2026, with Manggarai station serving as an integration hub for TransJakarta, KRL Commuter Line, and airport rail services.

Junior High School Student in Yogyakarta Allegedly Molested by School Staff in Medical Room

A staff member at a private junior high school in Yogyakarta has been reported to police for allegedly molesting a female student in the school's medical room (UKS). The incident reportedly occurred on 6 August while the student was resting due to illness. The case is being handled by the Women and Children Protection Unit of the Yogyakarta City Police.

Three Palembang Sub-districts Face Clean Water Crisis Due to Prolonged Dry Season

The Palembang city government has identified three sub-districts experiencing a severe clean water crisis caused by a prolonged dry season. Emergency water distribution is being coordinated with the local water utility and housing agency. Authorities are also preparing for land fires and haze, with schools advised to suspend outdoor activities.

Political roundup: forest fire handling to asset forfeiture bill

President Prabowo Subianto travelled to Sumatra to inspect forest and land fire handling in Riau, Jambi and South Sumatra, while the House of Representatives confirmed the asset forfeiture bill is still under deliberation. Student groups in Jakarta also called for dignified democratic expression ahead of a planned protest.

Canadian PM Mark Carney Rejects US Trade Demands Over French Language, Trump Escalates

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has firmly rejected US trade demands that would weaken protections for the French language in Quebec, calling them non-negotiable. The collapse of negotiations has led to new US tariffs affecting around 5% of Canadian exports, with President Trump threatening further 50% tariffs on vehicles and steel from 2027. Quebec's Premier has backed Carney's stance, while Canada prepares retaliatory measures for September.

US Delays Economic D-Day Operation, Threatens Countries with Iran Ties

The US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has postponed the so-called Economic D-Day against Iran, opting instead for quiet diplomacy with partner nations. Washington has expanded the categories of Iran-related activity subject to future sanctions and is setting specific deadlines for countries to sever economic links with Tehran. The move is described as a warning shot intended to avoid destabilising the global financial system.

Legal roundup: Unsoed Rectorate searched, ex-BGN deputy's pretrial rejected

A series of legal developments unfolded on Monday, including a KPK search of eight homes and the Unsoed Rectorate over alleged irregularities in independent student admissions. Separately, the Central Jakarta District Court declined to hear a pretrial motion filed by a former deputy head of the National Nutrition Agency in a corruption case involving the free nutritious meals programme.

Terima Estafet ABU Robocon 2027, UMS Tegaskan Kesiapan Jadi Venue Kompetisi

Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta (UMS) has been officially designated as the main venue for ABU Robocon 2027 in Indonesia, receiving the host flag from Hong Kong during the closing ceremony of ABU Robocon 2026. The university has conducted field observations in Hong Kong to study international competition standards, including technical arena specifications, logistics, broadcasting, and participant services. UMS will coordinate with TVRI as the host broadcaster and prepare campus infrastructure, human resources, and technical planning to ensure the event meets international standards and strengthens Indonesia's position in the Asia-Pacific robotics ecosystem.

Trump Raises Import Tariffs on Canadian Cars to 50 Percent, Trade War Heats Up

US President Donald Trump has announced that tariffs on Canadian vehicles, trucks, and automotive parts will rise to 50 percent from 1 January 2027, following the collapse of trade negotiations between the two countries. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has vowed to retaliate dollar for dollar, while Ontario Premier Doug Ford has threatened to cut American access to Canadian electricity and critical minerals. The escalating dispute casts a shadow over an automotive industry whose supply chains depend heavily on free trade between the two nations.

US Treasury Secretary Says Trump Asked World Leaders to Isolate Iran Economically

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has stated that President Donald Trump has contacted world leaders to request Iran's economic isolation. Bessent warned that entities facilitating money laundering for Iran would be cut off from the US dollar system, and hinted at major sanctions announcements this weekend. He declined to name specific countries or set a deadline but stressed that Washington's patience is not unlimited.

Indonesia Dorong Digitalisasi Ketahanan Pangan APEC

Indonesia is pushing for innovation and digitalisation to strengthen food security across the Asia-Pacific region, with the National Food Agency (Bapanas) leading discussions at the APEC Food Security Week in Dalian. The country highlighted its use of Online Single Submission, e-certificates, and the Indonesia National Single Window to facilitate international food trade. Three APEC food security documents received endorsement and will be adopted at the ministerial meeting in Hangzhou, reflecting Indonesia's active role in shaping regional policy.

Investment Income Reaches Rp 427 Billion, Indonesia Re Books Significant Profit Growth

State-owned reinsurer Indonesia Re reported a sharp rise in net profit to Rp 176.96 billion in 2025, up from Rp 27.46 billion in 2024, supported by investment income of Rp 427.28 billion. The improved performance was attributed to business transformation, underwriting discipline, and the adoption of PSAK 117 (IFRS 17). The company's solvency ratio remained healthy at 133.38%, above the regulatory minimum.

US Removes Syria from State Sponsors of Terrorism List

The United States has formally removed Syria from its list of state sponsors of terrorism, lifting decades-old restrictions and easing economic sanctions. The move is intended to encourage investment and support political and economic stability under the new government led by Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham. US officials framed the decision as a path to prosperity and reintegration into the global economy.

80 Santri at Al-Irsyad Kauman Rembang Receive Scholarships from NU Care Lazisnu and MPPA

Eighty students at Al-Irsyad Kauman Islamic boarding school in Rembang, Central Java, have received educational scholarships funded through a collaboration between NU Care-Lazisnu and retailer PT Matahari Putra Prima Tbk. The programme also includes business capital to strengthen the pesantren's canteen enterprise. The initiative aims to promote educational access and economic self-reliance among Islamic boarding schools.

Red Cross Workers Attacked in Congo While Tackling Deadly Ebola Outbreak

The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement has voiced deep concern after six humanitarian workers were injured in a series of attacks while responding to a deadly Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The violence, which damaged ambulances and equipment, is reducing emergency health capacity and making the epidemic harder to control. The outbreak, caused by the rare Bundibugyo species, has already recorded 2,557 deaths from 5,375 confirmed cases.

Counterfeit Money Syndicate Printed Twice, 4,000 Notes 'Defective'

West Jakarta Police have uncovered a cross-regional counterfeit money syndicate that produced 12,000 fake rupiah notes across two locations in Tasikmalaya and Banyumas. Of these, 8,000 notes were circulated and sold for Rp 225 million, while 4,000 were deemed defective. Eleven suspects have been arrested in connection with the operation.

Danantara Sumberdaya Handles Nearly $70 Billion in Commodity Exports

Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia has processed nearly $70 billion in exports of coal, crude palm oil, and ferroalloys since beginning operations in June, with coal accounting for the largest share. The state-owned entity was established to centralise commodity exports and prevent underpricing practices that have cost Indonesia significant tax revenue. DSI will focus on transaction verification and transparency while leaving licensing and regulation with the relevant government agencies.

Netanyahu Claims Iran Tried to Kill His Son Amid Escalating Conflict

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has alleged that Iran attempted to assassinate one of his sons, though he provided no details on the incident. The claim emerged during a television interview as Israel and Iran remain locked in a severe escalation of hostilities. The statement also coincided with debate over security protection for Netanyahu's political rival Gadi Eisenkot ahead of upcoming elections.

Alamtri Resources Indonesia (ADRO) Shares Surge

Shares of PT Alamtri Resources Indonesia Tbk (ADRO) jumped to a three-month high on Monday, driven by the start of aluminium sales from its subsidiary PT Kalimantan Aluminium Industry. DBS maintained a buy recommendation with a target price of Rp3,200, citing strong coal prices and the aluminium project as key catalysts.

Ibas Urges Immediate Handling of Forest Fires in Kalimantan, Demands Investigation and Sanctions

Democratic Party deputy chairman Edhie Baskoro Yudhoyono has called on the government to act swiftly to tackle forest fires in Kalimantan, including evacuation, recovery and prevention of further spread. He also demanded a thorough investigation into the causes and firm legal action against any parties, including corporations, found to have acted deliberately or in breach of regulations. Ibas further urged regulatory improvements to ensure economic development aligns with environmental sustainability.

72 Forest Fire Suspects Named, Legislator Urges Police to Follow Environmental Laws

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has welcomed the National Police's decision to name 72 suspects in forest and land fire cases, while urging investigators to adhere strictly to criminal procedure and environmental legislation. The legislator also called for greater cooperation with regional governments and continuous public education to prevent new fire outbreaks during the dry season. Police have pledged to pursue both individuals and corporations that profit from the fires.

PDIP Demands Firm Legal Action Against Corporations Behind Kalimantan Forest Fires

The Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) has urged law enforcement to take firm action against those responsible for forest and land fires in Kalimantan and Sumatra, including corporations. Party Secretary-General Hasto Kristiyanto stressed that without fair and decisive legal enforcement, such disasters will recur annually. Police have so far named 71 individual suspects, believed to be controlled by larger financiers.

Hanura Urges Firm Sanctions for Forest Fire Perpetrators, Highlights Smoke Reaching Malaysia

The Hanura Party has called on President Prabowo Subianto to impose strict sanctions on those responsible for forest and land fires in Kalimantan and Sumatra. Party deputy chairman Patrice Rio Capella expressed concern that the fires have become an annual problem and have affected neighbouring Malaysia, where schools were closed due to smoke. He urged the government to move beyond statements and implement concrete legal action and prevention measures.

HIPMI Welcomes Acceleration of IEU-CEPA Ratification

The Indonesian Young Entrepreneurs Association (HIPMI) has welcomed the government's plan to accelerate ratification of the Indonesia-EU Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, targeting implementation by early 2027. The trade deal is projected to eliminate tariffs on over 98 percent of tariff lines, potentially boosting exports of key commodities such as coffee, cocoa, rubber, textiles and electronics. HIPMI has emphasised that beyond tariff reductions, domestic businesses must address quality standards, certification, financing and market access to fully capitalise on the agreement.