Archive: 27 August 2026
Showing 1,601-1,650 of 1,659 articles
Thu, 27 Aug 2026, 05:15 WIB
Business Matching, Appropriate Financing to Strengthen MSME Competitiveness - Bank Indonesia
Bank Indonesia has facilitated Rp285 billion in MSME financing through business matching as of July 2026, with eight financial institutions signing agreements covering inclusive and sustainable financing. The central bank is strengthening end-to-end MSME development through liquidity incentives, payment digitalisation via QRIS, and financial recording systems like SIAPIK and BISAID. The Government reported KUR disbursements of Rp197 trillion to 3.05 million MSMEs, with continued synergy expected to enhance MSME competitiveness and inclusive economic growth.
Thu, 27 Aug 2026, 05:15 WIB
Beware the Temptation of Digital Loans
The rapid growth of digital lending in Indonesia, with outstanding fintech lending reaching Rp105.14 trillion by June 2026, has made borrowing easier but also exposed borrowers to serious financial and psychological risks. The article warns that hidden fees, aggressive debt collection, and the 'borrow to repay' cycle are trapping many Indonesians in unsustainable debt. It calls for stronger financial literacy to help the public navigate the dangers of online loans and buy now, pay later services.
Thu, 27 Aug 2026, 05:10 WIB
Civilisation Is Built on Energy
This opinion piece argues that the history of civilisation is fundamentally the history of humanity's ability to harness ever-greater amounts of energy. It contends that possessing energy resources is not the same as wielding power; rather, a nation's strength lies in its capacity to convert those resources into economic productivity and strategic influence. The article draws on historical examples from Rome and Britain to Japan and Singapore to illustrate this thesis.
Thu, 27 Aug 2026, 05:05 WIB
Igniting Hope and Guaranteeing Education Amid Disaster
The article argues that education must continue as a humanitarian movement during disasters such as the Flores earthquake and Kalimantan haze, with teachers restoring hope while the state guarantees children's rights. It calls for holistic, humane, inclusive and ecological education that rebuilds dignity, solidarity and preparedness rather than merely repairing damaged buildings. The piece frames education as a 'civilisation project of love' that links ecological crisis, social injustice and humanitarian suffering.
Thu, 27 Aug 2026, 05:00 WIB
CNA Explains: Why have US Treasury yields surged, and why does it matter to Asia?
Rising US Treasury yields, driven by inflation concerns, fiscal deficits, and AI-related borrowing, are pushing up borrowing costs across Asia. Analysts warn that households and businesses may face more expensive mortgages and loans, while central banks could be forced to respond with rate hikes. However, Asia's strong savings rates and robust foreign exchange reserves provide some resilience against tighter financial conditions.
Thu, 27 Aug 2026, 05:00 WIB
Myanmar’s Dawei port megaproject could offer a regional shipping shortcut, but viability doubts linger
Myanmar is attempting to revive the long-stalled Dawei special economic zone and deep-sea port, with Russia emerging as a key partner and Thailand showing renewed interest. The project could provide a strategic shipping route bypassing the Strait of Malacca, but ongoing armed conflict, financing constraints, and geopolitical complexities raise doubts about its viability.
Thu, 27 Aug 2026, 05:00 WIB
Women: From Supporters to Producers of NU Knowledge
The article examines the evolving role of women within Nahdlatul Ulama, arguing that they have long been vital to the organisation's intellectual tradition but are still not fully recognised as producers of knowledge. It highlights the shift in women's demands from merely being present to having their intellectual contributions considered, and points to initiatives like the Congress of Indonesian Women Ulama as evidence of this change.
Thu, 27 Aug 2026, 04:59 WIB
Woman in West Sulawesi Dies After Taking Abortion Pills Bought Online; Seller Arrested
A 26-year-old woman in Polewali Mandar, West Sulawesi, died after consuming abortion pills purchased online by her boyfriend. Police have arrested the boyfriend and the 20-year-old female seller, who is currently undergoing questioning.
Thu, 27 Aug 2026, 04:59 WIB
Commentary: China is betting on spreading AI faster than the US can contain it
China is prioritising the widespread diffusion of artificial intelligence across its economy rather than solely chasing frontier model supremacy, leveraging cheaper models and domestic chipmaking advances. A new domestically produced lithography machine in Shanghai signals progress in reducing reliance on foreign semiconductor equipment, while Washington's expanding export restrictions face a growing number of chokepoints. For Asia, China's ability to deploy capable AI broadly may prove more strategically significant than who builds the smartest model.
Thu, 27 Aug 2026, 04:55 WIB
Delayed Aid: Pakistan Hospital Fire Claims 14 Infant Lives
A fire at the maternity ward of Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences in Islamabad killed 14 newborn babies, with only one survivor. Families have accused emergency responders of slow response and locked ward doors, while the prime minister has suspended a senior health official and ordered an immediate investigation.
Thu, 27 Aug 2026, 04:49 WIB
Public Works Ministry strengthens clean water support for Central Java drought victims
The Ministry of Public Works has mobilised 16 water tanker trucks and 105 public hydrants to support communities affected by drought in Central Java. Nine tankers and 12 hydrants have already been deployed to several regencies, with distribution coordinated through regional disaster agencies. The drought has spread to at least 24 regencies and cities, affecting around 184,000 residents facing difficulty obtaining clean water.
Thu, 27 Aug 2026, 04:29 WIB
Meta Agrees to Pay Rp286 Trillion to Settle Child Protection Lawsuit in the US
Meta has agreed to a landmark settlement worth up to US$18 billion with 48 US states, the District of Columbia, and three territories over claims that Facebook and Instagram endangered children. The agreement, pending judicial approval in California, would be the largest payment ever made by a company in child safety litigation. Meta will also be required to implement default daily time limits and automatic night-time notification blocking for young users.
Thu, 27 Aug 2026, 04:22 WIB
160 Dead, Hundreds Missing After Flash Floods and Landslides on Nepal-Tibet Border
Rescue teams are searching for hundreds of people missing after flash floods and landslides devastated villages along the Nepal-Tibet border, with at least 160 confirmed dead. The disaster has destroyed entire villages and market areas, with many of the missing believed to be foreign tourists. Authorities are investigating whether an earthquake-triggered landslide that blocked a river caused the flooding, while experts warn of potential secondary floods from debris blocking upstream channels.
Thu, 27 Aug 2026, 04:12 WIB
Australian Man Arrested in Bali for Alleged Indecent Act in Local Resident's Yard
An Australian national has been detained by Badung Police in Bali after a video of him allegedly engaging in an indecent act in a local resident's yard went viral on social media. The 27-year-old was apprehended at Ngurah Rai International Airport just before boarding a flight back to Australia. He has reportedly admitted to the act and faces charges under Indonesia's new Criminal Code relating to public indecency.
Thu, 27 Aug 2026, 04:11 WIB
West Pasaman Police name five suspects in rape of woman with intellectual disability
Police in West Pasaman, West Sumatra, have named five men as suspects in the alleged rape and sexual assault of a 22-year-old woman with an intellectual disability. The victim was reportedly held in a suspect's house for four days and given methamphetamine before being found by residents. Authorities have condemned the crime as a serious human rights violation and pledged to pursue the case to its conclusion.
Thu, 27 Aug 2026, 04:00 WIB
Australian Tourist Arrested After Indecent Act Outside Badung Resident's Home
An Australian national has been arrested at Ngurah Rai Airport after a video of him engaging in an indecent act outside a resident's home in North Kuta, Badung, went viral. The 27-year-old was detained by police and immigration officers before he could board a flight to Australia. He is currently being held at Badung Police Station and has been charged under Article 406 of the Indonesian Criminal Code.
Thu, 27 Aug 2026, 04:00 WIB
Murder Convict Escapes from Ambon Prison, Officers Tighten Security at Ports and Airport
A murder convict serving a nine-year sentence has escaped from Ambon Class IIA Prison, prompting a joint manhunt by prison officers, the military and police. Immanuel Birahy, 23, broke out through the ceiling of his isolation cell and scaled a perimeter wall using a sarong. Authorities have tightened surveillance at Ambon's seaports and airport to prevent him from leaving the island.
Thu, 27 Aug 2026, 03:56 WIB
Tourists flock to Badui settlements while hunting for durian
Thousands of domestic tourists have visited the Badui indigenous community in Lebak, Banten, boosting local incomes during the durian harvest season. Visitors praised the area's pristine natural environment and the distinctive quality of Badui durian, which sells for between Rp30,000 and Rp100,000 per fruit.
Thu, 27 Aug 2026, 03:50 WIB
Massive Fire in Muara Angke: 60 Homes Destroyed and 730 People Affected
A major fire swept through a densely populated settlement in Muara Angke, North Jakarta, destroying 60 homes and affecting 730 residents. Firefighters took approximately five hours to extinguish the blaze, which broke out on Wednesday evening and was fully contained after midnight. Two residents sustained minor injuries and received medical treatment from Indonesian Red Cross personnel.
Thu, 27 Aug 2026, 03:39 WIB
Police arrest Australian national suspected of indecent act in resident's yard
Bali police have detained a 27-year-old Australian man, identified as BA, after a video of an alleged indecent act in a local resident's yard went viral on social media. The suspect was apprehended at I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport just before boarding a flight back to Australia. Police have reminded all tourists to respect local norms, customs, and laws in Bali.
Thu, 27 Aug 2026, 03:21 WIB
Tangerang city government issues circular on school pick-up on 27–28 August
The Tangerang city government has issued a circular instructing schools and parents to arrange direct pick-up for students on 27–28 August 2026 due to planned demonstrations in Jakarta and surrounding areas. The measure aims to ensure student safety during the journey home from school. Parents are asked to inform teachers of any delays and to take children straight home after collection.
Thu, 27 Aug 2026, 03:06 WIB
CBN dan Alibaba Cloud Jalin Aliansi Strategis, Percepat Adopsi AI Enterprise di Indonesia
CBN has announced a long-term strategic alliance with Alibaba Cloud to deliver AI and cloud solutions for Indonesian enterprises, positioning itself as a digital infrastructure and AI solutions provider. The partnership will focus on developing enterprise AI portfolios and modernising CBN's technology capabilities using Alibaba Cloud's infrastructure and ecosystem. The first offering, CBN Digital Worker, is an AI platform powered by Alibaba Cloud technology and the Qwen model, enabling companies to build digital workforces tailored to their organisational needs.
Thu, 27 Aug 2026, 03:00 WIB
Experts Urge Evaluation of Education System After Unsoed Rector Caught in KPK Sting
Education expert Indra Charismadji has called for a systemic evaluation of state university governance following a corruption sting at Jenderal Soedirman University. The KPK has named Rector Akhmad Sodiq and five others as suspects in an alleged bribery scheme related to new student admissions. Indra urged the public to respect the presumption of innocence while emphasising that repeated corruption cases in state universities signal the need for urgent reform.
Thu, 27 Aug 2026, 03:00 WIB
20 Hectares of Peatland Burn in Kubu Raya, West Kalimantan Police Chief Warns of Underground Embers
A forest and land fire has affected approximately 20 hectares of peatland in Kubu Raya Regency, West Kalimantan. Although the main flames have been extinguished, underground embers remain a serious threat and could reignite if not intensively cooled. The West Kalimantan Police Chief has deployed joint personnel and urged residents to refrain from slash-and-burn land clearing amid hot and dry weather.
Thu, 27 Aug 2026, 02:54 WIB
Health Office: ISPA cases continue to rise amid South Kalimantan forest and land fires
The South Kalimantan Health Office has reported a steady increase in acute respiratory infection (ISPA) cases, reaching 36,196 reports between the 28th and 32nd weeks of 2026. The rise coincides with ongoing forest and land fires in the province, though officials caution against attributing the increase solely to the fires without further data analysis.
Thu, 27 Aug 2026, 02:31 WIB
Driven by Jealousy, Man Murders Unregistered Wife in Mentarau Forest, Batam
Police in Batam have arrested a 54-year-old man suspected of murdering his unregistered wife, whose decomposing body was found in the Mentarau Forest area. The suspect allegedly strangled the victim for around ten minutes after accusing her of having an affair with his own son, a claim police say could not be proven.
Thu, 27 Aug 2026, 02:23 WIB
Russia-Indonesia still in discussion stage over Biak spaceport
Russia's ambassador to Indonesia has clarified that talks with Jakarta over developing a spaceport in Biak, Papua, remain at an early discussion stage, with no agreements signed. He also rejected suggestions that the facility could serve as a Russian military base, emphasising that it would remain a purely Indonesian asset.
Thu, 27 Aug 2026, 02:17 WIB
Two injured in Muara Angke fire, North Jakarta
Two residents sustained injuries in a fire that broke out in the Muara Angke area of Penjaringan, North Jakarta, on Wednesday evening. The Jakarta Fire and Rescue Service deployed 132 personnel to tackle the blaze, which was reported at 6.50pm local time. Firefighters have contained the fire and are currently carrying out cooling operations at the scene.
Thu, 27 Aug 2026, 02:12 WIB
Gulkarmat: 60 houses burned in Muara Angke, North Jakarta on Wednesday night
A major fire in the Muara Angke area of Pluit, North Jakarta, destroyed 60 houses and affected 180 families comprising 730 people. Firefighters battled the blaze for over five hours before fully extinguishing it early Thursday morning. Two people sustained injuries, while the cause and total losses remain under investigation.
Thu, 27 Aug 2026, 02:06 WIB
Jamintel: Penyengat Island played a major role in Malay history
Indonesia's Junior Attorney General for Intelligence, Reda Manthovani, has highlighted the historical significance of Penyengat Island in the development of Malay civilisation. During a visit accompanied by Riau Islands Governor Ansar Ahmad, he toured key heritage sites including the tombs of Raja Ali Haji and Engku Putri, and the Sultan Riau Grand Mosque. The Governor emphasised the island's potential as a historical and cultural tourism destination while preserving ancestral heritage for future generations.
Thu, 27 Aug 2026, 02:06 WIB
Man in South Sumatra Dies After Being Slashed by Landowner for Stealing Palm Fruit
A man named Andre died after being slashed by landowner Abu Sidik in a plantation in Musi Banyuasin, South Sumatra, on Tuesday. The altercation began when Andre was allegedly caught stealing oil palm fruit and refused to compensate the owner. Police have arrested the suspect, who admitted to slashing the victim multiple times, including two blows to the neck.
Thu, 27 Aug 2026, 02:00 WIB
Tumbang Nusa Forest Fires Under Control, Central Kalimantan Police Chief Reveals Main Firefighting Obstacle
Forest and land fires in Tumbang Nusa, Pulang Pisau Regency, Central Kalimantan, are largely under control following intensive efforts by a joint task force. However, dwindling water levels in reservoirs and the Kahayan River are hampering water bombing operations. Authorities plan to build additional reservoirs and boreholes to secure water supplies.
Thu, 27 Aug 2026, 01:59 WIB
Yusril opens possibility of using legal representatives for foreign brand owners in Indonesia
Coordinating Minister for Law, Human Rights, Immigration and Corrections Yusril Ihza Mahendra has indicated openness to allowing foreign brand owners to use legal representatives or official proxies based in Indonesia for customs recordation, without requiring them to establish a local subsidiary. The proposal emerged in response to concerns raised by the International Trademark Association (INTA) about barriers to using the recordation mechanism. Yusril stressed that the idea remains under study and has not yet become a policy decision.
Thu, 27 Aug 2026, 01:54 WIB
Tomorrow's Lunar Eclipse Not Visible from Indonesia
The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has confirmed that the partial lunar eclipse occurring on Friday, 28 August, will not be observable from anywhere in Indonesia. The phenomenon will only be visible from the Americas, Africa, Europe, and parts of Central Asia and the Middle East. The entire eclipse process is expected to last 5 hours and 38 minutes.
Thu, 27 Aug 2026, 01:44 WIB
Deputy Energy Minister: Infrastructure support boosts competitiveness of Sei Mangkei SEZ
Deputy Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Yuliot Tanjung has reaffirmed the government's commitment to providing supporting infrastructure for the Sei Mangkei Special Economic Zone in North Sumatra, including a Rp3.5 trillion gas pipeline and renewable energy projects. The SEZ has attracted US$1.87 billion in investment and employs around 16,000 workers, with Unilever Oleochemical Indonesia as its anchor investor. Unilever projects its expanded facility will export up to 600,000 tonnes of oleochemical products to more than 30 countries, with potential export value reaching US$800 million.
Thu, 27 Aug 2026, 01:35 WIB
Iran's President Ready to Face New US Sanctions: They Will Achieve Nothing
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has dismissed the latest round of US sanctions, insisting Washington will fail to cripple Iran's economy. The US has expanded secondary sanctions targeting digital assets, technology, gold, aviation, and shipping, while warning third countries to comply. Tehran says it has prepared a two-year plan to withstand the economic pressure.
Thu, 27 Aug 2026, 01:34 WIB
Harga Emas Masih Dinamis, Investor Tetap Waspada
Gold prices in Indonesia remain volatile, with EmasKu recording a buy price of Rp2,639,000 per gram and a sell price of Rp2,507,000 per gram on 26 August 2026. The fluctuating market underscores the importance of regular price monitoring for investors. Short-term price movements are considered part of the inherent dynamics of gold investment.
Thu, 27 Aug 2026, 01:31 WIB
Largest state-owned housing exhibition ready to open on 27 August 2026
Danantara Housing Expo 2026 will open to the public on Thursday, 27 August, featuring around 130 tenants including 12 state-owned construction firms. The exhibition offers a range of housing options from subsidised FLPP homes to affordable units, alongside supporting products such as financing and furniture. The event aims to showcase state-owned enterprise collaboration in building a more complete housing ecosystem.
Thu, 27 Aug 2026, 01:30 WIB
Expert Urges Government and All Elements to Collaborate in Assisting NTT
Political economy observer Frits Oscar Fanggidae has called for collaboration between the government and all elements of society to assist those affected by the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara and to accelerate recovery efforts. He emphasised that the government bears primary responsibility for ensuring all affected residents receive proper attention. Fanggidae also welcomed the involvement of students and other groups in providing psychosocial support and trauma healing to affected children.
Thu, 27 Aug 2026, 01:15 WIB
Public Works Minister: National road connectivity on Flores Island restored
Public Works Minister Dody Hanggodo has confirmed that national road connectivity on Flores Island has been restored following the magnitude 7.7 earthquake. The ministry prioritised reopening all national roads affected by landslides and repairing damaged bridges, including the Wae Pesi Bridge, which is crucial for fuel distribution. Water supply systems are also being addressed through gradual repairs and emergency measures.
Thu, 27 Aug 2026, 01:12 WIB
West Sumatra Procurement Bureau Chief Examined After Viral Indecent Video, Admits Being in Recording and Resigns
A senior official in the West Sumatra provincial government has resigned after a video allegedly showing two civil servants in an indecent situation circulated on social media. The Head of the Goods and Services Procurement Bureau admitted he was one of the people in the recording during a meeting with the Regional Secretary. The provincial government has stated that an official examination will proceed despite the resignation to establish the facts objectively.
Thu, 27 Aug 2026, 01:04 WIB
Torturer of Two Children in Dairi, North Sumatra Tests Positive for Methamphetamine
Police in Dairi, North Sumatra, have confirmed that Rumondang Sianturi, a 52-year-old caregiver accused of torturing two young siblings, tested positive for methamphetamine. Authorities suspect the abuse was committed under the influence of drugs. The suspect is currently detained at Dairi Police Station.
Thu, 27 Aug 2026, 01:00 WIB
North Sumatra Governor: Revised APBD focuses on infrastructure and post-disaster recovery
North Sumatra Governor Bobby Nasution has stated that the revised 2026 provincial budget (P-APBD) will prioritise infrastructure development, post-disaster recovery, basic services, and other priority programmes. The revised budget projects a revenue increase of Rp1.259 trillion, or 10.80 percent, bringing total regional revenue to Rp12.924 trillion. The provincial government aims to maintain spending quality and strengthen fiscal synergy with regencies and municipalities across North Sumatra.
Thu, 27 Aug 2026, 01:00 WIB
Forest Fires in Berau, East Kalimantan Claimed Not to Threaten Orangutan Habitat
Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni has stated that forest and land fires in Berau, East Kalimantan, do not currently threaten orangutan habitats, while emphasising the government's efforts to prevent and extinguish the fires. The minister highlighted the unusually early and strong El Niño as a key factor behind this year's fires. Conservationists, however, warn that fire hotspots and smoke are already approaching key orangutan populations and could disrupt forest food sources.
Thu, 27 Aug 2026, 00:44 WIB
Kemenkomdigi Luncurkan Garuda Spark Innovation Hub Baru di BSD City
The Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs has launched a new Garuda Spark Innovation Hub in BSD City as part of a simultaneous rollout across ten locations nationwide. The programme aims to connect regional talent and innovation with investors, industry, and global markets, promoting equitable digital economic growth. The ministry targets expanding the network to 500 points, with 20 additional hubs planned for 2026.
Thu, 27 Aug 2026, 00:36 WIB
Fire in Pluit, North Jakarta Extinguished, Destroying 60 Homes
A major fire in the Pluit area of North Jakarta destroyed 60 residential homes and injured two residents. Firefighters took approximately five hours to extinguish the blaze, which was reported on Wednesday evening. Authorities have not yet determined the cause of the fire.
Thu, 27 Aug 2026, 00:30 WIB
BRIN Interested in Waste Pyrolysis Machine in Klungkung, Plans National Development
Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) has expressed interest in the pyrolysis waste processing technology at the TOSS Center in Klungkung, Bali. A research team is scheduled to visit the facility in late August to study the technology and its Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF) processing. The agency hopes to use the Klungkung model as a reference for developing waste processing technology on a national scale.
Thu, 27 Aug 2026, 00:30 WIB
Prabowo Increases PPATK Budget, Strengthens Financial Intelligence Capacity
President Prabowo Subianto has more than doubled the budget of Indonesia's Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (PPATK) to strengthen its role as a financial intelligence unit. The agency reported a decline in online gambling fund flows and highlighted its contribution of Rp20.27 trillion in state revenue from 2020 to June 2026. PPATK also detailed its support for law enforcement through thousands of analysis and examination reports.
Thu, 27 Aug 2026, 00:19 WIB
AMPB's Botok Remains Disappointed Despite Bank Account Reactivation: I Have Suffered Many Losses!
Supriyono alias Botok, coordinator of the Pati United Community Alliance (AMPB), has expressed continued disappointment with the banking sector despite his account being reactivated. He claims to have suffered significant losses from the temporary blocking of his account. Botok confirmed that the planned demonstration on 27 August 2026 will proceed, with logistics already secured through community support.
Thu, 27 Aug 2026, 00:14 WIB
Ahead of 27 August Protest, Komdigi Urges Public Not to Spread Hate Speech or Provocation on Social Media
Indonesia's Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs has called on the public to refrain from posting hate speech and provocative content on social media ahead of a planned demonstration in Jakarta on 27 August 2026. The Aliansi Masyarakat Pati Bersatu has confirmed its protest will be peaceful and focused on two anti-corruption demands: passing the Asset Forfeiture Bill and imposing the death penalty on corruptors.