Archive: 26 August 2026
Showing 1,001-1,050 of 1,599 articles
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 14:02 WIB
Jakarta apologises for delay in Kelapa Gading-Manggarai LRT inauguration
The Jakarta provincial government has apologised for postponing the inauguration of the Kelapa Gading-Manggarai LRT route, citing the need to ensure inclusive facilities for all passengers. Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo confirmed the fare will remain Rp5,000 until October 2026, with a review planned thereafter. Construction is reportedly 100 per cent complete, with only central government testing through the Ministry of Transportation still pending.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 14:02 WIB
Budi Arie Apologises for 'Earlier Election' Statement, Confirms No Link to Jokowi
Projo chairman Budi Arie Setiadi has publicly apologised after his remarks about the possibility of the 2029 general election being brought forward went viral on social media. He stressed that the statement was purely his personal analysis and had no connection whatsoever to former president Joko Widodo. Budi Arie also said he was ready to accept any consequences arising from the controversy.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 14:02 WIB
Indonesia's Daily Oil Production Falls Below 600,000 Barrels: Why?
Indonesia's average oil production for January–July 2026 reached only 578,156 barrels per day, about 95% of the state budget target of 610,000 bpd. The shortfall is attributed to pipeline leaks and fires, electrical system disruptions at the Rokan Block, and an extreme natural decline at the Cepu Block. Gas production also fell below target, averaging 6,544 MMSCFD against a budget target of 6,837 MMSCFD.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 14:01 WIB
Indonesia Strengthens Alliance of Palm Oil Producing Countries
Indonesia is seeking to bolster cooperation with fellow palm oil producing nations to enhance its bargaining position and safeguard market access amid global trade barriers. The Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KADIN) has urged the government to optimise the role of the Council of Palm Oil Producing Countries (CPOPC) as a platform for collective advocacy. Palm oil exports contribute more than US$20 billion annually to Indonesia's foreign exchange earnings.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 14:01 WIB
Water Scarcity Forces Crews to Drill Boreholes to Fight Jambi Forest Fires
Firefighting teams in Tanjung Jabung Timur, Jambi, are drilling boreholes to secure water supplies as they battle peatland fires that have burned for three days. The blaze has affected oil palm and areca nut plantations, with the peat soil's characteristics requiring thorough saturation to prevent underground reignition.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 14:00 WIB
Destry Speaks Candidly: Rupiah Does Not Always Need to Be Rescued with the BI Rate
Bank Indonesia governor candidate Destry Damayanti has argued that the central bank cannot rely solely on interest rate policy to maintain economic stability amid unusual global uncertainty. She said BI must use a broader policy mix to support the rupiah while also sustaining economic growth. Destry also stressed that inflation control requires government involvement, as core inflation accounts for only about 65% of headline inflation.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 14:00 WIB
Russian Gas Plant Engulfed in Massive Fire, 7 Killed
A major fire at a gas chemical complex in Russia's Amur region has killed at least seven people, most of them Chinese nationals, with nine others reported missing. The facility, a joint venture between Russia's Sibur and China's Sinopec, had not yet begun operations. Russian authorities are investigating the incident as a suspected breach of industrial safety regulations.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 14:00 WIB
Bareskrim Arrests Perpetrator of Illegal Gold Smuggling at Soekarno-Hatta
The Indonesian National Police's Criminal Investigation Unit (Bareskrim) has arrested a suspect involved in smuggling illegal gold by strapping it to his body at Soekarno-Hatta Airport. The suspect, identified as R, was apprehended upon arrival from Japan, and a subsequent raid on a house in North Jakarta uncovered equipment and materials used to process and refine the gold. Police believe the operation was run by a Chinese national, GCZ, who has fled abroad, and are continuing to pursue other individuals involved.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 14:00 WIB
Exploring the archaeological exhibition of Phetchaburi civilisation in Thailand
The Phra Nakhon Khiri National Museum in Phetchaburi Province, Thailand, is hosting an archaeological exhibition titled 'Don Tai Yong: Prologue to Phetchaburi Civilisation' from 24 to 28 August. The exhibition showcases significant artefacts recovered from the Don Yai Thong archaeological site, including bronze objects, pottery, beads, gold ornaments, and a gold ring engraved with Brahmi script estimated to be 1,900 to 2,100 years old.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 13:59 WIB
Bareskrim uncovers illegal gold smuggling to Hong Kong using body-strapping method
Indonesia's Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim) has dismantled a syndicate smuggling illegal gold to Hong Kong by strapping it to couriers' bodies. A suspect identified as R was arrested at Soekarno-Hatta Airport upon arrival from Japan, leading investigators to a house in Penjaringan, North Jakarta, believed to be the operation's base. The property is suspected of belonging to a Chinese national, GCZ, who has allegedly fled abroad.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 13:58 WIB
MPR says Oil and Gas Bill emphasises sustainability to drive Indonesia's economy
Deputy Speaker of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) Eddy Soeparno has stated that the Oil and Gas Bill (RUU Migas) under deliberation prioritises sustainability as a key instrument for economic growth. The bill will include provisions for carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology to provide legal certainty and support decarbonisation efforts. Lawmakers are aiming to complete the deliberation and enact the bill as soon as possible, potentially before the end of the year.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 13:58 WIB
Jakarta Provincial Government Focuses on Perfecting Kelapa Gading-Manggarai LRT Facilities
The Jakarta Provincial Government has postponed the inauguration of the Kelapa Gading-Manggarai LRT route, originally scheduled for Wednesday 26 August, to allow for final refinements to facilities. Officials emphasised the decision reflects a commitment to ensuring the highest standards of comfort and safety before public operations commence. The 12.2-kilometre corridor is expected to ease congestion and improve connectivity, with a flat fare of Rp5,000 per journey.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 13:57 WIB
Regency government encourages grouper fish farming development in Thousand Islands
The Thousand Islands Food Security, Marine and Agriculture Sub-agency is promoting cantang grouper farming through coaching and assistance to local fish farming groups. A community group on Kelapa Dua Island successfully harvested 459 kilograms of grouper, demonstrating the viability of aquaculture in the region. Officials hope the success will strengthen the fisheries sector and boost the economic independence of coastal communities.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 13:57 WIB
US to Revoke 200,000 Tourist Visas from Asylum Seekers
The United States government plans to revoke approximately 200,000 visas held by foreign nationals who entered on tourist or business visas and subsequently applied for asylum. The State Department describes the practice as visa fraud and says the move is part of a broader immigration crackdown under the Trump administration. The policy would represent the largest mass visa revocation in US history.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 13:57 WIB
Donors Flee, Ticket Sales Slump, Kennedy Center Reels Under Trump
The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts is projected to miss its revenue target by nearly $100 million and post a deficit of about $23 million for fiscal 2026, according to internal documents. The financial deterioration followed Donald Trump's takeover of the institution and worsened after his name was added to the building in December 2025. Kennedy Center and the White House deny Trump's leadership is the cause, blaming previous management and citing new donors and congressional funding for renovations.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 13:55 WIB
3 kg LPG Consumption Reaches 5 Million Tonnes by July, 63% of 2026 Quota
Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources reports that subsidised 3 kg LPG consumption has reached 5.05 million tonnes by July 2026, representing 63% of the annual quota of 8.6 million tonnes. The government and Pertamina are preparing to tighten distribution controls, including data validation with the civil registry, to ensure the subsidised cylinders reach only eligible households.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 13:55 WIB
Creative Economy Ministry pushes new tech talent to produce competitive products
Indonesia's Creative Economy Ministry is encouraging the development of talent in blockchain, Web3 and other emerging technologies so the country becomes a builder rather than just a market. The push aligns with the 2026-2045 Creative Economy Master Plan and includes collaboration with ShardLab.Ltd on a bootcamp programme. Six Indonesian talents participated in the latest cohort, with one team developing a gamified financial literacy platform for children.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 13:55 WIB
12 Asian Countries with the Best English Proficiency: Where Does Indonesia Rank?
Indonesia ranks 12th in Asia and 80th globally in the EF English Proficiency Index 2025, with a score of 471, placing it in the low proficiency category. Malaysia leads Asia with a score of 581, followed by the Philippines and Hong Kong. Indonesia's score improved by three points from the previous year, but it remains below the global average of 488.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 13:55 WIB
Two Houses in Pondok Labu, South Jakarta, Catch Fire; Residents Panic and Shout
Two residential houses in Pondok Labu, Cilandak, South Jakarta, were destroyed by fire on Wednesday morning, with an electrical fault suspected as the cause. The Jakarta Fire and Rescue Service deployed 20 fire engines and 83 personnel, managing to localise the blaze by 09.03 WIB and complete operations by 10.53 WIB. No casualties were reported, and residents were alerted by a witness who spotted the fire from a nearby naval health centre.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 13:54 WIB
Postidar stresses importance of maintaining stability and democracy
The Indonesian Raya Integrated Professionals (Postidar) has urged the public to safeguard national stability and democracy ahead of planned demonstrations on 27 August 2026. The organisation acknowledged the right to protest but warned against actions that could disrupt the economic progress achieved under President Prabowo Subianto's administration. Postidar also criticised remarks by Projo chairman Budi Arie Setiadi suggesting the Prabowo government may not last until 2029, calling for unity and concrete work rather than political speculation.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 13:54 WIB
UGM expert: land mismanagement can worsen impact of extreme weather
A Gadjah Mada University professor has warned that ecological disasters in Indonesia are not solely caused by extreme weather anomalies but are significantly aggravated by poor land management. He urged policymakers to adopt ecologically precise development actions and modern geoinformation technology, including AI, to improve spatial planning and resource management.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 13:54 WIB
Sentenced to 10 Years, Siska Now Creates Batik at Bandung Women's Prison
A female inmate at Bandung Women's Prison has found a new purpose through batik-making after unexpectedly winning a design competition. Siska, serving a 10-year sentence for a drug offence, now leads the prison's batik workshop and has created several copyrighted motifs. She credits the programme with giving her focus and a sense of validation, though she raises concerns about products going missing at exhibitions.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 13:53 WIB
Purbaya confirms readiness to add funds for forest and land fire handling
Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has confirmed that the government has prepared additional budget funds for forest and land fire (karhutla) disaster management and is ready to disburse them once the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) submits a request. BNPB currently holds Rp5 trillion for national disaster handling, but no new funds have been added as no formal request has been received. The minister stressed that any additional funding must be free from price mark-ups, noting that disaster response requires a different approach from ordinary spending.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 13:53 WIB
Riau BBKSDA on alert for forest fires in Sumatran tiger habitat
The Riau Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BBKSDA) is monitoring forest and land fires in the Kerumutan Wildlife Reserve, a key Sumatran tiger habitat. An estimated five hectares of peatland have burned, with ground teams facing difficult terrain to reach the fire. Authorities are combining aerial and ground operations to contain the blaze and protect wildlife.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 13:53 WIB
What Have We Actually Done?
A professor reflects on the deeper meaning of the Lecturer Workload (BKD) reporting period, arguing that it should serve as a mirror of integrity rather than a mere administrative formality. She warns that reports designed only to meet minimum requirements can mislead institutions and ultimately harm students and society. The piece calls for lecturers to ask what genuine benefit their work has produced.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 13:53 WIB
AI Robo Advisor Technology to Assist Crypto Investors
PT Pandawa Sakti Digital (WinX) and crypto exchange Reku have signed a strategic partnership to trial AI Robo Advisor technology for digital asset trading in Indonesia. The collaboration aims to help investors analyse markets and execute trades more precisely, particularly for complex crypto derivative products. The move comes as Indonesia's crypto investor base reached 22.69 million with monthly transaction values of Rp28.58 trillion as of June 2026.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 13:52 WIB
Jakarta Reschedules Inauguration of Kelapa Gading-Manggarai LRT
The Jakarta provincial government has postponed the inauguration of the Kelapa Gading-Manggarai LRT route, originally planned for Wednesday, 26 August. The decision follows a final evaluation aimed at refining facilities to ensure inclusivity. A new date will be announced once confirmed, while the overall development agenda remains unchanged.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 13:52 WIB
Prabowo explains delayed visit to Flores earthquake site
President Prabowo Subianto has defended his decision to delay visiting the earthquake-hit area of Nagekeo, East Nusa Tenggara, saying he wanted to give other agencies the opportunity to serve affected residents directly. He stressed that he had been monitoring the situation from Jakarta throughout. The death toll from the magnitude 7.7 earthquake has risen to 103, with 1,666 people injured.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 13:52 WIB
Resident Recounts Moments of Fire at Sade Traditional Village
A devastating fire destroyed 75 homes and numerous cultural facilities at the Sade Traditional Village in Central Lombok on Saturday night. The blaze, which started in a resident's kitchen, spread rapidly due to the thatched roofs and woven bamboo walls of the traditional Sasak houses. No casualties were reported, but material losses are estimated in the billions of rupiah, and residents are hoping for reconstruction that preserves the village's ancestral architectural heritage.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 13:52 WIB
US Chooses Economic Sanctions Over New Military Strikes on Iran
The United States has signalled a shift away from military confrontation with Iran, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio telling allies that Washington will prioritise economic sanctions instead. The new approach, backed by fresh Treasury measures targeting more than 60 entities and vessels, reflects President Donald Trump's growing fatigue with prolonged conflict in the region. The development comes as Iran and Oman discuss arrangements for the Strait of Hormuz to restore stability to global energy shipping.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 13:51 WIB
Traffic Diversion on Jl Yos Sudarso, North Jakarta, from 28 August
The Jakarta Transportation Agency will implement traffic engineering on Jalan Yos Sudarso in North Jakarta from 28 August to 5 September 2026. The measure is needed to facilitate the shifting of a road separator near the Plumpang/Tanjung Priok toll exit. Motorists are advised to follow the temporary traffic arrangements and instructions from officers on the ground.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 13:50 WIB
Indonesian Blue Chip Stocks Surge in August: Who Is the Strongest?
Several large-capitalisation Indonesian stocks posted double-digit gains over the past month, though not all were supported by foreign inflows. CNBC Indonesia Research screened for companies with market capitalisation above Rp20 trillion and gains exceeding 15%, excluding high-volatility stocks with concentrated ownership. The analysis focuses on ISAT, EXCL, NCKL, and TINS, each driven by distinct catalysts including telecom growth, merger synergies, index rebalancing, and rising commodity prices.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 13:50 WIB
Russian National Arrested by Immigration for Filming Protest in Wamena, Papua
Indonesian immigration authorities have detained a 39-year-old Russian citizen, identified as AP, for recording a demonstration by the West Papua National Committee (KNPB) in Wamena, Papua Highlands. Officials stated that his activities were inconsistent with the purpose of his tourist visit visa. The case highlights Indonesia's enforcement of immigration rules concerning foreign nationals' involvement in activities deemed to disrupt public order.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 13:49 WIB
Finance Minister Purbaya Assures Forest Fire Budget Ready, Warns BNPB Against Mark-ups
Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has confirmed that emergency funds are available for tackling forest and land fires, with Rp5 trillion in ready-to-use funds held by the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB). He cautioned against any mark-up in operational spending and said the government is awaiting a fresh assessment from BNPB as the situation remains dynamic. President Prabowo Subianto expressed optimism that the fires could be brought under control within one to two weeks.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 13:48 WIB
PHC Assists Evacuation of Chinese Tourist Who Drowned at Long Beach, Padar Island
Padar Heritage Conservation (PHC) assisted in the evacuation of a Chinese tourist who drowned at Long Beach on Padar Island, deploying a speedboat and coordinating with Basarnas and Polair. The victim, Zou Huarong, was taken to Labuan Bajo for further medical treatment. PHC has called for a joint evaluation of safety standards and emergency preparedness at Long Beach, noting that similar incidents have occurred several times.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 13:48 WIB
Iran and Oman Agree Temporary Shipping Corridor in Strait of Hormuz
Iran and Oman have formally agreed a framework for a temporary shipping corridor in the Strait of Hormuz, including plans to clear naval mines from the vital energy chokepoint. The agreement follows talks in Tehran between the two countries' foreign ministers and is intended to restore maritime traffic disrupted by Middle East conflict. Tehran has nevertheless set strict conditions for fully reopening the strait, demanding that the United States lift its naval blockade, remove oil sanctions and unfreeze Iranian assets.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 13:47 WIB
Political Fiqh Reveals Dynamic State Forms, Not Necessarily an Islamic State
Professor Masykuri Abdillah of UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta argues that political fiqh should be treated as an open field of ijtihad, adaptable to changing contexts. He distinguishes between an 'Islamic state' and a 'Muslim state', emphasising that Islam provides principles rather than a single mandatory form of government. The views were presented during a book discussion of his latest work on contemporary Islamic political fiqh.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 13:46 WIB
Visiting NTT, Prabowo Highlights Benefits of Free Nutritious Meals for Earthquake Victims
President Prabowo Subianto visited Nagekeo Regency in East Nusa Tenggara to review earthquake response efforts and chaired a coordination meeting with ministers. He praised local government efforts and defended the Free Nutritious Meals programme, arguing it provides significant relief to disaster victims despite criticism from political elites. The government has deployed 71 nutrition service units to support displaced residents following the magnitude 7.7 earthquake.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 13:45 WIB
Telkom Accelerates Digital Infrastructure Development, Here's the Strategy
State-owned telecommunications giant PT Telkom Indonesia is aggressively expanding its digital infrastructure to meet surging demand for connectivity. The company has built over 545,000 km of fibre optic networks, operates 34 international submarine cable systems, and manages 36 data centres. Telkom is now shifting focus from merely connecting points to integrating its infrastructure with intelligent digital services and AI capabilities.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 13:44 WIB
Barantin ready to help find export markets for Palu fried shallots
Indonesia's quarantine agency Barantin has offered to help identify overseas buyers for fried shallots from Palu, Central Sulawesi, targeting Southeast Asian markets and exploring opportunities in China. The initiative is part of a cooperation agreement with the Palu city government to boost regional economic growth through flagship commodities. Central Sulawesi's exports reached USD 22.32 billion in 2025, with China and Vietnam among its main destinations.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 13:43 WIB
The Story of Those Maintaining the Energy Chain in Porong
The Onshore Receiving Facility (ORF) Porong in Sidoarjo, East Java, plays a critical role in receiving, regulating, and distributing natural gas from offshore fields to industrial consumers across the region. Operated by PT Pertamina Gas through its Operation East Java Area, the facility has been a key node in the East Java gas transmission network since the early 1990s. Staff work around the clock to ensure uninterrupted supply to power plants, fertiliser factories, and other industries, with no supply disruptions reported to date.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 13:43 WIB
Government communication body reveals Asset Forfeiture Bill awaiting deliberation in DPR
The Indonesian government has confirmed that the Asset Forfeiture Bill is now awaiting deliberation in the House of Representatives (DPR) following President Prabowo Subianto's firm instruction to advance the regulation. The bill is intended to address crimes affecting the public, including investment fraud, insurance fraud, and hajj and umrah-related offences. The legislation is considered part of the broader reform of Indonesia's criminal law system, alongside revisions to the Criminal Code and Criminal Procedure Code.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 13:43 WIB
House pushes for industrial estate permits to be issued within three months
The House of Representatives is pushing to cut industrial estate permit processing to a maximum of three months to provide certainty for investors. Lawmakers argue lengthy licensing causes significant losses for businesses that have already paid rent but cannot operate. The proposal is part of the deliberation of the Industrial Estates Bill, which also addresses environmental safeguards and green industry practices.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 13:43 WIB
Jakarta Provincial Government Reschedules Inauguration of Kelapa Gading-Manggarai LRT
The Jakarta Provincial Government has postponed the inauguration of the Kelapa Gading-Manggarai LRT route, originally scheduled for Wednesday, 26 August. The decision follows a final evaluation aimed at refining facilities to ensure inclusivity for passengers. The 12.2-kilometre line with 11 stations remains operational with a flat fare of Rp5,000 per trip.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 13:43 WIB
Forestry Ministry relies on boreholes to tackle forest and land fires in Kalimantan
The Ministry of Forestry is turning to boreholes as a key tactic in fighting widespread forest and land fires in Sumatra and Kalimantan, as prolonged drought has made cloud seeding increasingly ineffective. With nearly 30 days without rain and the possibility of 60 rainless days, ground crews are now drilling directly into peat layers to access retained water reserves. The approach is being used in vulnerable areas such as around Syamsudin Noor International Airport.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 13:42 WIB
Pati Residents Travel to Jakarta by Five Buses for 27 August Rally at DPR, Funded Entirely by Public Donations
The Alliance of United Pati Society (AMPB) has dispatched five buses of demonstrators from Pati, Central Java, to Jakarta for a peaceful rally at the House of Representatives (DPR) on 27 August 2026. The group is demanding the immediate passage of the Asset Forfeiture Bill and the imposition of the death penalty for corruption convicts. Organisers stressed that the mobilisation was funded entirely by community donations and was not driven by any particular group's interests.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 13:42 WIB
Australian Children's Social Media Use Rises Despite Under-16 Ban
Data from parental control firm Qustodio shows that social media activity among Australian children under 16 has rebounded after an initial decline following the government's December 2025 ban. Usage on platforms such as TikTok, Instagram and Snapchat is approaching pre-ban levels, raising questions about the effectiveness of age-based restrictions. The findings come as New Zealand moves to introduce penalties of up to 10% of global revenue for tech companies that fail to protect children online.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 13:41 WIB
Riau Police Uncover Cross-Province Motorcycle Theft Ring, 44 Bikes Seized
Riau Regional Police have dismantled a cross-province motorcycle theft network, arresting three suspects and seizing 44 motorcycles as evidence. The investigation began with a resident's report in Pekanbaru and led officers to receivers of stolen goods in West Sumatra, Kerinci, and Tembilahan. Police are urging victims to claim their vehicles at Riau Police Headquarters free of charge.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 13:40 WIB
LRT Velodrome-Manggarai Inauguration Postponed for Facility Improvements
The Jakarta provincial government has postponed the inauguration of the Kelapa Gading-Manggarai LRT route, originally scheduled for today, citing the need to refine several facilities. The decision follows a final evaluation of the event preparations, with officials emphasising that the development timeline remains unchanged. A new inauguration date will be announced once the improvements are completed.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 13:40 WIB
Prabowo Reveals Reason for Delayed Visit to NTT Earthquake Victims
President Prabowo Subianto explained that he deliberately delayed his visit to earthquake-hit Nusa Tenggara Timur to allow local authorities to focus on disaster response without ceremonial distractions. He assured that the central government had been monitoring the situation and providing assistance from the outset.