Archive: 26 August 2026
Showing 1,201-1,250 of 1,599 articles
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 12:04 WIB
Telkom Indonesia Urges Companies to Invest in Cybersecurity Early
Telkom Indonesia has called on companies to invest in cybersecurity proactively rather than waiting for an attack to occur. The message was delivered at IgnitePRO, a side event of the Bali Annual Telkom International Conference 2026, which focused on enterprise technology adoption including artificial intelligence. Executives highlighted the dual nature of AI, which can boost productivity but also amplify security threats.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 12:04 WIB
Earthquake-affected communities need psychosocial services to recover from trauma
Communities in East Manggarai, East Nusa Tenggara, affected by the 7.7 magnitude earthquake on 15 August require psychosocial support to address trauma, particularly among children who fear tsunamis more than the tremors themselves. The Women's Empowerment and Child Protection Minister has proposed deploying psychology students on community service programmes to the region to provide sustained assistance.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 12:03 WIB
Askrindo supports 512 national projects worth Rp261.9 trillion
State-owned credit insurer Askrindo has provided insurance and surety support for 512 strategic and national security projects with a combined value of approximately Rp261.9 trillion as of December 2025. The support includes 16 National Strategic Projects worth Rp143.2 trillion and 496 national security projects worth Rp118.7 trillion. The company has also expanded its commercial line capacity by 42 percent since 2023 and continues to back government programmes such as KUR for MSMEs.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 12:03 WIB
Production Soars, Pani Gold Mine Enters Major Development Phase
PT Merdeka Gold Resources Tbk reported a more than eightfold increase in gold production at the Pani Gold Mine in Gorontalo during the second quarter of 2026, driven by the ramp-up of its heap leach operations. The company is now advancing construction of a 12 million tonne per annum Carbon-in-Leach processing facility, which is expected to lift gold recovery rates above 90 per cent. The development positions Pani as a large-scale, long-life gold mine and a key growth driver for the Merdeka Copper Gold group.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 12:02 WIB
Video: Initial Overview of the 2027 State Budget Macro Assumptions
The House of Representatives' Budget Committee and the government have agreed on the basic macroeconomic assumptions and development indicators for the 2027 State Budget. The agreement was reached during a plenary session discussing the 2027 Macroeconomic Framework and Fiscal Policy Principles.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 12:02 WIB
Apindo Reminds Labour Law Revision Must Boost Investment and Worker Productivity
The Indonesian Employers' Association (Apindo) has urged that the ongoing revision of the Labour Law must create an ecosystem that supports investment and national productivity. Chairwoman Shinta W. Kamdani stressed that labour reform should balance worker protection with job creation, competitiveness, and adaptability to technological change. The revision follows a Constitutional Court ruling and is currently being deliberated by the DPR and the government.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 12:01 WIB
Youth voices drive Asia-Pacific green-energy ties at Shenzhen gathering
Youth representatives from across the Asia-Pacific gathered in Shenzhen to discuss green energy transition, regional grid connectivity, and the integration of electricity and computing power. The event highlighted cross-border projects such as the China-Laos 500 kV interconnection and the Greater Bay Area's target of nearly 60 percent green electricity by 2030. Participants emphasised that cooperation between governments, enterprises, and communities is essential for advancing low-carbon development in the region.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 12:00 WIB
Judge rejects Roy Suryo's fourth pre-trial motion in Jokowi diploma case
The South Jakarta District Court has dismissed a fourth pre-trial motion filed by Roy Suryo challenging his overseas travel ban in connection with the alleged defamation case over President Joko Widodo's diploma. The judge ruled the motion was no longer relevant because Suryo's status has changed from suspect to defendant following the transfer of the main case to the East Jakarta District Court. The court also warned that filing successive pre-trial motions after the main case has been transferred constitutes an abuse of legal procedure.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 11:59 WIB
Serang Police Intensify Night Patrols to Prevent Brawls and Motorcycle Gangs
Serang Police have stepped up night patrols in crime-prone areas to deter street brawls, motorcycle gang activity, and other public order disturbances. The operation, ordered by Police Chief AKBP Andri Kurniawan, targeted locations frequented by youths and included checks for sharp weapons and drugs. Residents were urged to report security threats via the 110 call centre.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 11:58 WIB
PSI Affirms Budi Arie Is Not Part of the Party
The Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI) has publicly distanced itself from Budi Arie Setiadi, stating he is not a member, official, or secretary-general of the party. Deputy Chairman Andy Budiman warned against linking Budi Arie's statements or actions to PSI and cautioned against efforts to sow discord between Joko Widodo and President Prabowo Subianto. The statement follows a viral video in which Budi Arie speculated about a possible 'acceleration of history' in Indonesian politics before the 2029 election.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 11:57 WIB
Bogor Police personnel raise Rp100 million to help NTT disaster victims
Personnel from the Bogor Resort Police in West Java voluntarily collected Rp100 million in donations to assist communities affected by disasters in Tanarata, East Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara. The aid was delivered in collaboration with the Polisi Baik community and East Nusa Tenggara students studying in Bogor, who acted as liaisons with local residents. The police hope the assistance will ease the burden on victims and support social and economic recovery in the area.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 11:57 WIB
Sade Village Tragedy: Saving Living Space and Cultural Mitigation
A devastating fire destroyed the traditional Sasak village of Sade in Central Lombok, wiping out up to 120 traditional houses and leaving 320 residents without homes or livelihoods. The disaster has exposed the vulnerability of heritage tourism sites built from organic materials and lacking modern fire protection. The article calls for a human-centred recovery that balances cultural authenticity with essential fire safety measures.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 11:57 WIB
Masses Begin Setting Up Attributes in Front of DPR Building Ahead of 27 August Demonstration
Protesters have begun preparing banners and other attributes in front of the Indonesian parliament complex in Jakarta ahead of a planned demonstration on 27 August 2026. The demonstrators, including groups from Pati, Central Java, are demanding that the House of Representatives immediately pass the Asset Forfeiture Bill. Support from online motorcycle taxi drivers and local residents has been visible, with food, water, and financial donations being provided to the protesters.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 11:55 WIB
US Grapples with Debt, Trump's 'Right-Hand Man' Must Battle the World
The United States is struggling to contain rising Treasury yields as its federal debt surpasses US$40 trillion, with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announcing a bond buyback programme aimed at easing market pressure. However, the strategy merely shifts debt composition from long-term to short-term maturities rather than reducing overall borrowing, raising doubts about its effectiveness. The situation carries political weight ahead of the midterm elections, as higher yields feed into mortgage rates and fuel costs for American households.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 11:55 WIB
Baznas provides scholarships for 1,000 students from families affected by NTT earthquake
The National Amil Zakat Agency (Baznas) is providing scholarships to 1,000 university students from East Nusa Tenggara whose families were affected by the recent earthquake. The assistance, amounting to Rp1 million per month for three months, aims to ensure the continuity of education for students facing financial difficulties. Baznas will raise funds through partnerships and has coordinated with regional offices in areas where NTT students are studying.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 11:54 WIB
Prophet Muhammad's Birthday at Jakarta Narcotics Prison Strengthens Religious Values
The Jakarta Class IIA Narcotics Correctional Facility held a Mawlid celebration to reinforce religious values among inmates. The event featured motivational talks from artist Dik Doank and Ustaz Chavchay Syaifullah, aiming to inspire prisoners to embrace positive change. Prison officials hope the teachings of Prophet Muhammad will serve as a guiding principle for inmates preparing for reintegration into society.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 11:54 WIB
BPOM Chief Discusses Food Safety for the Nation and Global Recognition
Indonesia's Food and Drug Monitoring Agency (BPOM) has been designated a WHO Listed Authority for vaccine oversight, placing it alongside regulators from 38 developed countries. This makes Indonesia the first middle-income country to achieve the status, which allows its pharmaceutical and vaccine products to be included in WHO-recommended lists. BPOM Head Taruna Ikrar discussed the achievement in a CNN Indonesia podcast.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 11:53 WIB
How Indonesia Plans to Fund the 100 GWp Solar Project
Indonesia's government has outlined a funding strategy for its ambitious 100 GWp solar power project, prioritising private investment through independent power producers, with state-owned Danantara as a fallback if tariffs are uncompetitive. The project, requiring an estimated US$73 billion, is intended to be completed within three years, though industry experts have expressed doubts about the feasibility of this timeline given current domestic manufacturing and grid constraints.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 11:53 WIB
Panasonic takes part in SPOGOMI Jakarta to strengthen environmental commitment
Panasonic GOBEL Group has joined the SPOGOMI Jakarta 2026 event to raise public awareness about waste management. The company views the initiative as part of its corporate social responsibility and support for sustainable development goals. The event combines sport and waste collection to encourage environmentally friendly behaviour.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 11:52 WIB
Video: Chasing Profit in an Era of Uncertainty, Hotels Focus on Boosting Occupancy
PT DMS Propertindo Tbk (KOTA) is optimistic about achieving net profit growth through to the end of 2026, supported by its hospitality and real estate segments. The company is focusing on increasing hotel occupancy across its four properties in Bandung, Yogyakarta and Bali, while also advancing projects including the Kemayoran Golf Course, a sports hub in BSD, and a hospital and education ecosystem in Surabaya.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 11:51 WIB
Defence University Issues Circular Permitting Hijab for Female Muslim Cadets
Universitas Pertahanan (Unhan) has formally allowed female Muslim undergraduate and diploma cadets to wear the hijab during all educational and training activities. The policy, issued via a rector's circular on 24 August, follows directives from the Minister of Defence and applies until an official hijab design is established.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 11:51 WIB
Rupiah Strengthens 0.16 Percent to Rp 17,695 per US Dollar
The Indonesian rupiah opened stronger against the US dollar on Wednesday, gaining 28 points to Rp 17,695, driven by falling global crude oil prices amid rising hopes for peace in the Middle East. Analysts noted that discussions between Iran and Oman over a temporary joint maritime corridor in the Strait of Hormuz have eased supply concerns. Domestically, investors are watching planned demonstrations scheduled for Thursday.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 11:51 WIB
US political circles continue to push for dialogue with Russia
American journalists and political figures are increasingly calling for the restoration of dialogue with Russia, an end to aid for Ukraine, and a shift towards a foreign policy focused on peace and prosperity. Figures such as Tucker Carlson, Marjorie Taylor Greene, and Thomas Massie are among those advocating for a more pragmatic approach. The remarks were made by US journalist Christopher Helali, who has also sought Russian citizenship.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 11:51 WIB
Celios: I-EU CEPA could boost Indonesian exports
An economist from Celios argues that the Indonesia-EU Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement could help shift Indonesian exports away from the US market, particularly for textiles. The agreement is expected to liberalise around 98 per cent of tariff lines, offering zero-tariff access for key products such as palm oil, textiles, footwear and rubber. Indonesia is also urged to implement EU deforestation regulations to clarify forestry product exports to Europe.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 11:50 WIB
National Police Chief of Criminal Investigation Reveals 32 Agrarian Conflict Reports Across 12 Regional Police Forces
The National Police's Criminal Investigation Department (Bareskrim) has reported 32 active police reports and 5 public complaints concerning agrarian conflicts across 12 regional police jurisdictions. Eight cases have been resolved through restorative justice, while ten more are being processed for the same mechanism. The police leadership has instructed regional forces to handle land disputes humanely and with a focus on justice.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 11:50 WIB
Bekasi Officially Begins Construction of 500,000-Tonne Waste-to-Energy Plant
Bekasi City has officially launched a waste-to-energy project that will process over 500,000 tonnes of waste annually, equivalent to 70% of the city's total waste output. The Rp3 trillion initiative is expected to cut landfill emissions by up to 80%, reduce carbon emissions by 640,000 tonnes of CO2 equivalent per year, and supply green electricity to 55,000 households. West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi also highlighted the province's broader waste management challenges and pledged support for related riverbank clearance and relocation efforts.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 11:49 WIB
Zulhas Says PSEL Can Resolve 22.5% of Indonesia's Waste Problem
Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan has stated that the Waste-to-Energy (PSEL) facility in Bekasi could address around 22.5% of Indonesia's waste problem. The project is part of a broader government strategy involving multiple technologies to manage projected waste volumes. Zulhas emphasised the need for collaboration across stakeholders, including the military and local communities, to achieve national waste management targets.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 11:48 WIB
Family of East Jakarta accident victim asked to sign statement
The family of an 18-year-old traffic accident victim in East Jakarta claims they were pressured by local officials to sign a legal waiver. The Cawang sub-district head denies any coercion, saying the visit followed the father's earlier indication he would not pursue legal action. The case raises questions about road safety management and the role of local government in accident settlements.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 11:47 WIB
PPPA Minister delivers aid for women and children affected by earthquake
Minister of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection Arifah Fauzi has delivered specific aid for women and children affected by the earthquake in Manggarai and East Manggarai regencies, East Nusa Tenggara. Around 30 tonnes of aid has been collected, though only part could be transported due to logistical constraints. The minister assured that support would continue to be provided in stages according to needs on the ground.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 11:47 WIB
Immigration Detains Russian National for Filming KNPB Protest in Wamena
Indonesian immigration authorities have detained a Russian citizen, AP, for recording a West Papua National Committee (KNPB) demonstration in Wamena, Papua Highlands, allegedly to create social media content. The activity was deemed inconsistent with his tourist visa, and officials are investigating potential misuse of his stay permit under the Immigration Law. The case highlights Indonesia's enforcement of immigration rules against foreign nationals engaging in activities that could disrupt public order.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 11:46 WIB
KISI dan Pemprov Sumatra Barat Bangun Kolaborasi Strategis untuk Penerbitan Sukuk Daerah di 2027
PT Korea Investment and Sekuritas Indonesia (KISI) is collaborating with the West Sumatra provincial government to support the planned issuance of regional sukuk in 2027, which would be the first of its kind in Indonesia. The partnership includes KISI acting as underwriter and providing capacity building for the province's Debt Management Unit, drawing on municipal bond practices from countries such as the Philippines, Vietnam, and India. KISI also plans to expand capital market literacy programmes for civil servants across Indonesia to foster a more inclusive and sustainable regional financing ecosystem.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 11:45 WIB
Targeting Global Markets, Jakarta Provincial Government Supports MSME Optimisation at CIEIE 2026
The Jakarta Provincial Government is backing its fostered micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to penetrate global markets through participation in the China (Indonesia) International E-Commerce Industry Expo (CIEIE) Indonesia 2026. Deputy Governor Rano Karno stated that the event will help Jakarta MSMEs expand business networks and meet international partners. The government is also sending 23 curated MSMEs to the China International SME Fair (CISMEF) 2026 in Guangzhou under the Choose Jakarta programme.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 11:45 WIB
Satu Visi (VISI) Plans Private Placement and Acquisition, Here Are the Details
PT Satu Visi Putra (VISI) plans to issue 307.5 million new shares through a private placement, equivalent to 10% of its issued capital, to fund expansion into the healthcare sector. The proceeds will be used to strengthen the company's capital structure and support the acquisition of a 65% stake in Hasna Medika Bakti Cirebon. The corporate action is scheduled to be completed within two years following an independent shareholders' meeting on 30 September 2026.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 11:44 WIB
BI Governor Candidate Destry Highlights Undisbursed Loans Reaching Rp2,548 Trillion
Bank Indonesia governor candidate Destry Damayanti has called for accelerated credit growth, noting that undisbursed loans stand at Rp2,548 trillion, or 21.8% of total approved limits. She argued that maintaining stability alone is insufficient and that BI must strengthen its policy mix to support sustainable economic growth, with particular attention to SME lending.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 11:43 WIB
The Apurva Kempinski Bali Hosts Powerful Indonesia Festival 2026, Celebrating Nusantara Culture and Creativity
The Apurva Kempinski Bali, in partnership with Bank Rakyat Indonesia, will host the Powerful Indonesia Festival 2026 on 16–17 August to mark Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. The two-day event features a creative market, art exhibitions, discussions, live demonstrations, and musical performances, highlighting the nation's maritime heritage and creative economy. The festival also includes a special tribute ceremony for Indonesian veterans and showcases support for local micro, small, and medium enterprises.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 11:42 WIB
Australian Defence Minister pushes for operational steps on Jakarta Treaty 2026
Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles has urged Indonesia and Australia to swiftly formulate operational measures for the Jakarta Treaty 2026, the bilateral common security agreement signed in February 2026. Speaking at the 2+2 ministerial meeting in Melbourne, Marles emphasised that the two countries' geographic proximity makes their bilateral relationship critical to both nations' national security. Indonesian Defence Minister Sjafrie Samsoeddin affirmed that the partnership extends beyond bilateral security to regional peace and stability.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 11:42 WIB
BPK and Timor-Leste SAI cooperate on public sector audit
Indonesia's Supreme Audit Agency (BPK) and Timor-Leste's Supreme Audit Institution have signed a memorandum of understanding to strengthen bilateral cooperation in public sector auditing. The agreement aims to enhance audit quality, accountability and public sector governance through knowledge exchange and capacity building. The partnership builds on collaboration dating back to 2016 and is expected to deepen within the ASEANSAI framework.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 11:42 WIB
BPBD reports 12 homes damaged by flash flood in Parimo
Around 12 houses in Avolua Village, Parigi Moutong Regency, Central Sulawesi, have been damaged by a flash flood that struck early Wednesday. Approximately 68 families have been affected, with 12 families forced to evacuate after their homes were buried in mud. Local authorities are carrying out emergency response efforts, including clearing a 500-metre stretch of the Trans Sulawesi road that was covered in mud.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 11:41 WIB
Crowd begins preparing banners in front of DPR building
Protesters have begun gathering outside the Indonesian parliament in Jakarta, preparing banners and other materials ahead of a planned demonstration on Thursday. The action is expected to include residents from Pati, Central Java, and will call on the House of Representatives to pass the Asset Forfeiture Bill.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 11:40 WIB
Polda Metro Respects Judge's Decision to Reject Roy Suryo's Fourth Pretrial Motion
The South Jakarta District Court has rejected a fourth pretrial motion filed by Roy Suryo against Polda Metro Jaya, this time challenging a travel ban. The judge ruled the motion was irrelevant because Suryo's status had changed from suspect to defendant after his case was transferred to the East Jakarta District Court. Polda Metro Jaya said it respects the ruling and will continue to follow legal procedures.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 11:40 WIB
Major Changes Occur in the Ocean, Fires and Storms Everywhere
Global sea surface temperatures have reached their highest level in 125,000 years, driven by El Niño compounded by human-induced warming. Scientists warn that the record August temperature signals severe pressure on oceans, with cascading effects including more intense storms, marine heatwaves, and reduced carbon absorption. Indonesia faces heightened risks from coral bleaching, sea level rise, and prolonged droughts that exacerbate forest fires.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 11:39 WIB
Bank Indonesia Governor Fit and Proper Test: Not Just About the BI Rate
Ahead of the fit and proper test for the Bank Indonesia governor candidate, Trimegah Sekuritas chief economist Fakhrul Fulvian argues the process should address broader challenges facing the central bank. He contends that modern monetary policy requires more than adjusting the benchmark rate, as supply shocks and financial market dynamics have made the central bank's mandate far more complex.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 11:38 WIB
Indonesian processed fruit and vegetable products secure Rp510 million in orders from Chile
Two Indonesian SMEs have secured orders worth US$29,000 (Rp510 million) for processed fruit and vegetable products and tempeh snacks from buyers in Chile. The Ministry of Trade expects the transactions to lead to long-term cooperation and additional orders of similar value. Indonesia maintained a trade surplus with Chile of US$162.2 million in the first half of 2026.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 11:37 WIB
Semen Tiga Roda Wins Top Brand Award 2026 for the 18th Consecutive Time
PT Indocement Tunggal Prakarsa Tbk's flagship cement brand, Semen Tiga Roda, has secured first place in the cement category at the Top Brand Award 2026, marking its 18th consecutive win. Two other Indocement products, Mortar Tiga Roda and Semen Putih Tiga Roda, also topped their respective categories. The company attributes the achievement to sustained consumer trust and consistent product quality.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 11:37 WIB
East Java Prepares State High Schools as Transit Points for 35th NU Congress Participants
The East Java Education Office is preparing state senior high schools and vocational schools to serve as transit points for participants of the 35th Nahdlatul Ulama Congress in Jombang. The facilities, including classrooms, mosques, and bathrooms, will be available for rest, prayer, and washing amid limited accommodation in the regency. Some schools will also provide snacks for visiting delegations.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 11:37 WIB
Jakarta Treaty 2026 to shape future Indonesia-Australia ties
Indonesian and Australian foreign and defence ministers met in Melbourne to discuss the Jakarta Treaty 2026, a common security agreement signed by President Prabowo Subianto and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. The treaty establishes regular high-level consultations, joint defence training, military education exchanges, and a commitment to mutual support against serious threats. Both sides framed the agreement as a long-term pillar for regional stability and a deepening of bilateral cooperation.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 11:35 WIB
Arkora Hydro (ARKO) Acquires 99.9% Stake in Endorshine
PT Arkora Hydro Tbk (ARKO) has completed the acquisition of 99.9% of PT Endorshine Energy Solutions, a solar power plant owner and operator in Batam and Bintan, Riau Islands. The transaction marks ARKO's first entry into the solar energy sector, adding two solar power plants with a combined capacity of 21.3 MWp to its portfolio. The acquisition was made through subsidiary PT Arkora Tenaga Matahari and forms part of the company's commitment to expanding renewable energy development in Indonesia.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 11:34 WIB
Kompolnas Supports Police in Taking Firm Action Against Intellectual Actors Behind Forest and Land Fires
The National Police Commission (Kompolnas) has expressed full support for the Indonesian National Police (Polri) to investigate forest and land fire (karhutla) cases comprehensively, including tracing the most responsible individuals and companies. Commissioner Choirul Anam stressed that law enforcement must not stop at field actors but must target those with greater responsibility for the fires. He emphasised that firm action is necessary to prevent the recurring problem of forest and land fires, which are often driven by cheaper land-clearing methods.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 11:31 WIB
Bareskrim Reveals Sister-in-Law's Role Behind Courier of 43 Kg of Methamphetamine
Indonesia's National Police Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim) has detailed how a sister-in-law persuaded a man to join a drug trafficking network, leading to his arrest as a courier for 43 kg of methamphetamine. The suspect, Gilang, initially refused the work but was convinced by his sister-in-law, W, due to his lack of steady employment. Police are continuing to pursue the network's leader, identified only as QY.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 11:31 WIB
DPR: Industrial Estate Bill to drive equitable economic development in regions
The House of Representatives (DPR) is drafting an Industrial Estate Bill aimed at spreading economic growth more evenly across Indonesia's vast archipelago. The legislation is expected to provide a comprehensive regulatory framework covering industrial estate expansion, good governance, and prevention of inter-industry conflicts. Lawmakers also highlighted the need to strengthen local supply chains, reduce import dependence, and align workforce availability with industry needs.