Archive: 3 August 2026
Showing 1,051-1,100 of 1,519 articles
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 13:23 WIB
Home Affairs Ministry to Launch Digital Birth Certificates Sent Directly to Email to Cut Bureaucracy
Indonesia's Ministry of Home Affairs, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, is set to launch a digital birth certificate system this Friday. The initiative aims to streamline bureaucracy by automatically issuing and emailing birth certificates to parents upon a child's birth at any registered health facility. The move is also intended to eliminate opportunities for illegal fees by civil registration officers.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 13:23 WIB
Fact check: West Java government has not officially reinstated SPP for state schools
Claims circulating on social media that the West Java provincial government will reintroduce tuition fees for state schools are premature. The proposal is still under discussion as part of a regional regulation review, with no official policy adopted. Lawmakers remain divided on the issue, with some advocating for free education as mandated by law.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 13:23 WIB
The Dangers of Pornography Exposure on Children: Impact on Brain, Mental Health, and Behaviour
Early exposure to online pornography, often accidental, poses significant risks to children's developing brains, potentially leading to addictive behaviours and cognitive impairment. Experts highlight that the underdeveloped prefrontal cortex in children makes them particularly vulnerable to poor impulse control and altered reward systems. A combination of open parental communication, digital literacy education in schools, and vigilance against new threats like AI chatbots is essential to safeguard children.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 13:22 WIB
Advocate warns asset forfeiture bill must not become a political tool
Advocate Juniver Girsang has cautioned the Indonesian House of Representatives against allowing the Asset Forfeiture Bill to be used as a weapon to eliminate political opponents. He expressed concerns that without clear authority and management structures, law enforcement agencies could both investigate and manage seized assets, creating a conflict of interest. Girsang also urged lawmakers to study the lack of successful ratification of similar laws in other countries to avoid external pressure.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 13:22 WIB
Lippo and Pakuwon Mall Owners Agree to Dismantle High Fences
The chairmen of Lippo Group and Pakuwon Group have confirmed that the installation of high fences at some of their shopping malls was a local management initiative and not a corporate policy, stating that the national security situation remains conducive. Both tycoons emphasised that the retail industry is currently experiencing a 'golden era' with high demand for business space, reflecting strong economic confidence. The controversial fence at Pakuwon's Kota Kasablanka mall in Jakarta has already been removed following public scrutiny and a request from the Governor of Jakarta.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 13:21 WIB
Court Rejects Ben Gvir's 'Crazy Idea' to Use Crocodiles as Prison Guards for Palestinians
An Israeli court has blocked a proposal by National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir to deploy crocodiles as guards at a prison for Palestinian detainees. The ruling followed a petition by an animal rights group, while Ben-Gvir accused the judiciary of siding with 'terrorists'. The plan was reportedly inspired by a controversial US immigration detention centre surrounded by dangerous wildlife.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 13:21 WIB
Collecting on the Promise of an Economic Revival
Despite optimistic government rhetoric, Indonesia's economy faces a severe crisis of confidence, evidenced by a plummeting stock market, capital flight, and a weakening rupiah. Business surveys and credit rating downgrades reflect deep concerns over regulatory uncertainty, ambitious fiscal spending, and threats to central bank independence. The article argues that restoring trust is an emergency, as current investment activity masks a dangerous freeze on future expansion plans.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 13:20 WIB
Argentine President Calls Brazilian President 'Thief and Corrupt' in Escalating Feud
Argentine President Javier Milei has launched a scathing verbal attack on Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, branding him a 'thief' and 'corrupt' in a television interview. The remarks follow a diplomatic spat triggered by Milei's speech in Brazil supporting a political rival, which prompted Brasilia to recall its ambassador from Buenos Aires. The Argentine government has since attempted to de-escalate tensions with its largest trading partner, describing the conflict as a matter of 'ideological and political differences'.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 13:20 WIB
Hoax! Febrie Adriansyah freed because seized gold and money declared fake
A Facebook post falsely claimed that former junior attorney general for special crimes Febrie Adriansyah was released after police-seized gold and money were declared counterfeit. The Jakarta Metropolitan Police have confirmed that the 74 kilograms of gold bars and billions of rupiah in cash seized as evidence are genuine. Febrie Adriansyah remains a suspect in a money laundering case and is currently detained at the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) detention centre.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 13:20 WIB
Malaysia Abruptly Shuts Down 'School for the Rich', Here's Why
Malaysian authorities have closed Network School, a tech-focused community founded by wealthy investor Balaji Srinivasan, due to licensing issues. The programme, which operated from a derelict hotel, combined a startup incubator with self-development retreats and was part of Srinivasan's vision to build a new society. Despite the closure, Srinivasan has announced plans to open a new campus in Kazakhstan.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 13:19 WIB
Hoax: Komdigi to implement used phone ownership transfer like vehicles in July 2026
A Facebook video falsely claims that Indonesia's Ministry of Communication and Digital (Komdigi) will enforce a vehicle-style ownership transfer system for used mobile phones starting July 2026. The ministry has confirmed the information is untrue, clarifying that discussions only involved exploring transparent ownership mechanisms to prevent misuse of stolen devices. The government is instead preparing an IMEI registration and blocking service to protect consumers, with no additional fees or new obligations for the public.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 13:18 WIB
BPS Records Farmers' Exchange Rate at 127.84 in July 2026
Indonesia's national farmers' exchange rate (NTP) edged up 0.15 percent to 127.84 in July 2026, driven by a steeper decline in the prices farmers pay compared to the prices they receive. Gains in the food crops, smallholder plantation, and fisheries subsectors offset declines in horticulture and livestock. The modest improvement reflects a slight easing of cost pressures for farmers despite falling prices for key commodities like chillies and shallots.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 13:18 WIB
BPS: Annual Inflation Rises to 2.88 Percent in July 2026
Indonesia's annual inflation rate climbed to 2.88 percent in July 2026, up from 2.37 percent a year earlier, despite a monthly deflation of 0.14 percent. The monthly decline was driven by falling food prices, particularly for shallots and chillies, while annual inflation was fuelled by rising costs in food, transport, and personal care. Core inflation remained the largest contributor to the annual figure, with gold jewellery and cooking oil among the key drivers.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 13:17 WIB
Bandung City Government Summons Padel Court Operator Over Unauthorised Felling of 10 Shade Trees
The Bandung city administration has summoned the operator of Padel Six Nine following the alleged unauthorised felling of 10 mature shade trees on Jalan LLRE Martadinata (Riau). Officials state the act violates local regulations on public order, with the operator facing a requirement to plant 100 replacement trees and a fine of Rp10 million per tree felled. The case may also be escalated to the provincial governor for criminal proceedings.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 13:17 WIB
Constitutional Court Ruling: Legislator Urges Free Nutritious Meals Programme to Stop Using Education Budget by 2027
A senior Indonesian legislator has urged the government to implement a Constitutional Court ruling that prohibits the use of the education budget for the Free Nutritious Meals programme by 2027, ahead of the court's 2028 deadline. The lawmaker argued that redirecting funds back to education is crucial for improving teacher welfare, infrastructure, and human resource quality. She stressed that education reform is essential to prepare Indonesia's youth for global challenges such as digital transformation and artificial intelligence.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 13:17 WIB
Fact check: Indonesia's debt reaches Rp10,000 trillion
A viral video claiming Indonesia's debt has reached Rp10,000 trillion and the country is on the verge of bankruptcy is false. Bank Indonesia data shows external debt stood at $433.4 billion, or approximately Rp7,791 trillion, in the first quarter of 2026. The central bank confirms the debt structure remains healthy and manageable.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 13:17 WIB
Banten Police Form Integrated Task Force to Anticipate Landfill Fires
The Banten Regional Police have established an integrated task force to prevent and respond to fires at final disposal sites during the dry season. The task force, comprising police, military, and local government personnel, will maintain 24-hour posts at vulnerable landfills. The initiative follows concerns over the high risk of fires caused by accumulated methane gas at sites such as Jatiwaringin in Tangerang Regency.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 13:16 WIB
Papua Separatists Claim Killing of Five Workers, Declare 'War' in Tolikara
The West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB-OPM) has claimed responsibility for the killing of five construction workers in Tolikara, Papua Highlands, alleging they were disguised intelligence operatives. The separatist group declared the attack marks the beginning of an armed conflict in the previously quiet region. Indonesian military authorities have condemned the violence against civilians working on infrastructure projects and are pursuing the perpetrators.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 13:16 WIB
Indonesia's export value reaches 140.81 billion US dollars in first half of 2026
Indonesia's cumulative export value for January to June 2026 reached 140.81 billion US dollars, marking a 4.13 percent year-on-year increase. The growth was primarily driven by the processing industry, with China, the United States, and India remaining the top three export destinations. Despite a cumulative trade surplus of 3.58 billion US dollars, the country recorded a monthly deficit of 450 million US dollars in June.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 13:15 WIB
Government Holds Coordination Meeting on Rare Earth Element Content in Nickel and Tin Exports
The Indonesian government is convening a high-level coordination meeting today to establish clear parameters for rare earth element (LTJ) content in exported mineral products. The move aims to resolve regulatory ambiguity that has caused shipment delays, particularly for alumina and nickel derivatives. The Presidential Staff Office is facilitating the talks to provide legal certainty for businesses and streamline verification processes for surveyors and customs officials.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 13:14 WIB
Deputy minister urges stronger vocational, language skills for jobs
Indonesia's deputy minister has called for vocational training programmes to place greater emphasis on language proficiency, particularly to meet the demands of overseas labour markets such as Japan, where minimum language certifications are required. The government is expanding its National Vocational Training programme with a target of 300,000 participants this year, supported by an additional Rp1.7 trillion in funding. The initiative aims to enhance workforce competitiveness through both conventional and technology-based skills training.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 13:14 WIB
US-Iran negotiations to begin 3 August, Trump mentions Hormuz and denuclearisation
US President Donald Trump announced that negotiations with Iran will commence on 3 August, noting that Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar requested the cancellation of a planned attack. The talks are expected to address the Strait of Hormuz initially, followed by discussions on Iran's denuclearisation.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 13:14 WIB
Junior High School Student in Pemalang Dies, Allegedly a Victim of Bullying; Police Conduct Autopsy
A junior high school student in Pemalang, Central Java, has died after allegedly being bullied by schoolmates. Police are investigating the incident and have scheduled an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death. The case has sparked widespread public discussion on social media.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 13:13 WIB
Minister Nusron: 400 Land Offices Implement Scheduled Measurement, Average Wait 6.2 Days
Minister of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning Nusron Wahid announced that 400 land offices have adopted a scheduled measurement system, reducing the average wait time nationally to 6.2 days. The policy aims to provide certainty for citizens processing land certificates, replacing a previous system with no clear timeline. Ten offices, including those in Jakarta and Bogor, still exceed the 7-day target, with some delays reaching 90 days, prompting the ministry to deploy additional personnel.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 13:13 WIB
B50 Biodiesel Policy Fails to Lift TBS Prices, Independent Palm Oil Farmers Struggle
The chairman of Indonesia's independent palm oil farmers' association, APKASINDO, has stated that the B50 biodiesel mandate has not led to an increase in fresh fruit bunch (TBS) prices for smallholders. He noted that global crude palm oil (CPO) prices continued to decline after the policy's implementation date, only seeing a slight uptick after President Prabowo commented on Rotterdam market prices. The association is urging the government to strengthen oversight and enforce partnerships between mills and independent farmers to ensure their survival.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 13:12 WIB
Indonesia Still Able to Export Crude Oil in 2026, Mostly to Thailand
Indonesia recorded crude oil exports worth US$324.9 million in the first half of 2026, despite no shipments occurring in January, May, or June. The majority of these exports, nearly 89%, were destined for Thailand. This performance marks a significant decline compared to the same period last year, when exports reached US$777.02 million.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 13:11 WIB
BPK to Implement AI-Powered Audit System Starting Next Year
Indonesia's Supreme Audit Agency (BPK) will begin trialling an artificial intelligence system called AIFOR next year to enhance the depth and quality of its audits. The initiative aims to produce proven audit results incorporating assessments from academics and other stakeholders, while also evaluating the quality of BPK's own recommendations. The agency hopes this will drive systemic improvements across ministries and institutions.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 13:11 WIB
Home Affairs Minister Opens Dukcapil National Coordination Meeting, Urges Data to Become Foundation of Digitalisation
Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian has emphasised the critical role of population data as the bedrock for Indonesia's digital government transformation. Speaking at the 2026 Dukcapil National Coordination Meeting, he highlighted that the civil registry now covers nearly 99 percent of the population and is updated in real time. The ministry is collaborating with Bappenas and the World Bank on a multi-year programme to bolster digital infrastructure, including storage, bandwidth, and cyber security.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 13:11 WIB
Official: LPG 3 Kg, 5.5-12 Kg Prices at Agents and Depots as of 3 August 2026
Pertamina Patra Niaga has implemented new official prices for its non-subsidised Bright Gas LPG canisters, effective 14 July 2026, following a periodic market evaluation. The price of the 12 kg canister in Java fell by Rp8,000 to Rp220,000, while the 5.5 kg variant dropped by Rp4,000 to Rp103,000. The subsidised 3 kg LPG price remains unchanged at Rp19,000 at official depots, though retail prices may vary due to transport costs.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 13:10 WIB
Minister of Religious Affairs: The Function of Mosques Must Be Continuously Expanded to Empower the Community
Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar has called for mosques in Indonesia to broaden their role beyond worship to become centres for community empowerment and social welfare. He cited the example of the Prophet's Mosque in Medina, which historically functioned as a state secretariat, and noted that many Indonesian mosques are already serving as public service posts during the Eid homecoming period. The minister also announced that Indonesia will host an International Grand Imams Conference in September 2026 to strengthen the global role of imams in mosque management and peacebuilding.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 13:10 WIB
Independence, Democracy, and the Pursuit of People's Welfare
The Indonesian government under President Prabowo Subianto is focusing on translating political independence into tangible public welfare through populist programmes. Key initiatives like the Free Nutritious Meal Programme and the Red and White Village Cooperatives are designed to leverage the country's demographic bonus by improving health and education. The administration views these efforts as essential catalysts for developing a high-quality generation capable of propelling Indonesia towards developed nation status by 2045.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 13:10 WIB
Bandung City Government to Impose Strict Operating Hours for Padel Courts After Resident Complaints
The Bandung city administration is drafting strict regulations on padel court operating hours following public complaints about late-night noise. Mayor Muhammad Farhan stated that while no specific rules currently exist, new provisions will include monitoring and enforcement mechanisms. The move aims to balance business interests with residents' rights, particularly as many courts are located in residential areas.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 13:10 WIB
Secret US Operation to Buy Yen Exposed, Global Markets on High Alert
The United States has conducted a rare direct currency intervention, purchasing yen to support Japan's efforts to strengthen its faltering currency. The operation, executed by the New York Fed, follows a massive intervention by Tokyo and signals Washington's willingness to move beyond verbal support. The move has triggered a sharp rally in the yen, threatening popular carry trades and raising concerns about potential ripple effects across global stock and bond markets.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 13:08 WIB
Indonesia's transmigration policy wins China's support
China has expressed support for Indonesia's transmigration programme, with its ambassador highlighting the initiative's role in promoting balanced regional growth. The Chinese government is open to cooperation and exchanges, including inviting Indonesian officials to study China's village development and poverty eradication models. The support follows up on agreements between Presidents Prabowo Subianto and Xi Jinping, as Indonesia dispatches 1,476 participants to develop 53 transmigration areas.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 13:08 WIB
East Java Community Elements Declare Peace to Prevent Polarisation
Various community organisations, youth groups, and students in East Java have signed a joint commitment to maintain regional security and harmony. The declaration, attended by the Regional Police Chief and Governor, aims to counter potential social polarisation, particularly in the digital space. Officials also dismissed rumours of unrest ahead of Indonesia's Independence Day, affirming the situation remains safe and under control.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 13:07 WIB
After Years Unseen, Suu Kyi Finally Appears
Myanmar's detained democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi has met with a Red Cross official, marking her first public encounter with a foreign representative since the 2021 coup. The meeting follows persistent international demands for proof of life amid fears for the 81-year-old Nobel laureate's wellbeing. The junta recently commuted her sentence to house arrest, but had previously denied all access to her.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 13:06 WIB
Bareskrim Foils Smuggling of 10 kg of Cannabis via Courier Service, Two Arrested
The Indonesian National Police's Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim) has intercepted a 10.3-kilogram cannabis shipment disguised as a regular courier package in Lampung. The operation led to the arrest of two suspects in Tangerang, who were allegedly acting on the orders of a prison inmate. Authorities estimate the seizure saved over 30,000 people from potential drug abuse.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 13:06 WIB
KMP Mutiara Sentosa II Victims Evacuated to Tanjung Perak Port
Rescue teams have evacuated survivors and casualties from the KMP Mutiara Sentosa II ferry fire to Tanjung Perak Port in Surabaya. As of Monday morning, 229 people have been rescued alive and five bodies have been recovered. The joint SAR operation continues to search for any remaining missing persons.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 13:05 WIB
Indonesia's Imports Surge 34.27% to US$25.9 Billion in June 2026, Here's the Culprit
Indonesia recorded a trade deficit of US$450 million in June 2026 as imports soared 34.27% year-on-year to US$25.91 billion, significantly outpacing export growth. The spike was primarily driven by a more than doubling of oil and gas imports, which surged 105.15% to US$4.56 billion. Total imports for the first half of 2026 reached US$137.24 billion, an 18.69% increase compared to the same period last year.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 13:05 WIB
Coordinating Ministry for Law, Human Rights, Immigration, and Corrections and Three Subordinate Ministries Achieve Unqualified Opinion
The Audit Board of Indonesia (BPK) has awarded an Unqualified Opinion (WTP) to the Coordinating Ministry for Law, Human Rights, Immigration, and Corrections (Kemenko Kumham Imipas) and its three subordinate ministries. The BPK praised the cluster as an ideal model of synergy, highlighting improved governance, policy alignment with OECD standards, and tangible benefits for the public. The government has been urged to promptly address the audit recommendations within the statutory 60-day deadline.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 13:04 WIB
44 Reconstruction Scenes Reveal Chronology of Unram Student's Murder
Mataram Police conducted a reconstruction of the murder of University of Mataram student Nadya Dwi Ramadhany, featuring 44 scenes performed by the suspect. The re-enactment detailed the sequence of events, primarily at the victim's boarding house, where the suspect stole a mobile phone and motorcycle before smothering and strangling the victim. Police confirmed the incident was a pure robbery that resulted in the victim's death, with no sexual assault involved.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 13:04 WIB
UK Faces Recession Threat if Hormuz Strait Remains Closed Until 2027
The United Kingdom could slide into recession by 2027 if the Strait of Hormuz remains blocked, according to a report by consultancy EY. The closure would severely disrupt energy supplies, potentially driving inflation up to 6.4% by the end of 2026. The analysis comes amid heightened geopolitical tensions following military exchanges between the US and Iran.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 13:04 WIB
Prabowo's Meeting with Regional Heads Must Not Be a One-Way Briefing
Political analyst M. Jamiluddin Ritonga urges President Prabowo Subianto to use a planned meeting with regional leaders as a genuine dialogue to address local governance issues, rather than a one-way briefing. He highlighted concerns over centralisation, fiscal dependency, and corruption that undermine regional autonomy.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 13:03 WIB
Hearing Heats Up as Roy Suryo's Legal Team Grills Polda Metro Expert: Claims to Be Expert but Hasn't Read Pretrial Ruling
A pretrial hearing between Roy Suryo and Polda Metro Jaya turned contentious at the South Jakarta District Court. Tensions flared when the petitioner's legal team challenged the credibility of a police expert witness, Hendri Jayadi Pandiangan, after he admitted he had not fully read a prior pretrial ruling that declared Suryo's arrest and detention unlawful. The expert defended his position by claiming he avoided reading the ruling in full to maintain objectivity and not be influenced by the substance of the case.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 13:01 WIB
Video: Not Just for Rice, Biofertilisers Boost Palm Oil Production by 30%
Indonesian producer PT Pramudita Darya Parma is expanding the application of its locally developed biofertilisers beyond food crops to the palm oil sector. The company's CEO, Freddy Wijaya, stated that the organic fertilisers can increase palm oil production by 20 to 30 per cent. The firm is preparing to scale up production to meet growing demand from both food and plantation sectors.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 13:00 WIB
US-Iran Enters New Chapter, Trump Cancels Largest Planned Attack Since WWII
President Donald Trump has announced that talks with Iran will commence, having cancelled a planned military strike that he previously described as the largest since World War II. The decision, reportedly made at the request of Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, and Iran, has revived hopes for a diplomatic solution to the conflict that has disrupted global energy markets. The negotiations are expected to focus on the strategic Strait of Hormuz and Iran's nuclear programme.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 12:59 WIB
Entering Dry Season, Metro Jaya Police Prepare Personnel and Equipment to Anticipate Disasters
The Metro Jaya Regional Police have conducted a readiness drill involving 233 personnel to bolster disaster prevention and response capabilities ahead of the dry season. The force is prioritising mapping flood, drought, and fire-prone areas while strengthening coordination with the military, local government, and disaster agencies. The initiative also includes public education on water conservation and strict law enforcement against actions causing fires.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 12:58 WIB
Minister Yandri Guarantees Transparency in Appointments at Village Ministry
Minister of Villages and Development of Disadvantaged Regions Yandri Susanto has assured that the appointment of structural and functional officials within his ministry is conducted transparently and without any financial transactions. He urged the newly inaugurated officials to uphold the institution's reputation and to actively counter hoaxes, particularly a recent AI-generated video falsely depicting him threatening to close village shops. The minister emphasised the need for all staff to disseminate truthful information and combat negative propaganda targeting the government.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 12:57 WIB
Mutiara Sentosa Survivor Testimony: 7 Horses Lost, 2 Colleagues Missing
A husband and wife recount their harrowing escape from the burning KM Mutiara Sentosa 2 ferry off the coast of Madura, which claimed their cargo of seven horses and left two of their colleagues unaccounted for. The couple, who were transporting the horses to a buyer in Makassar, now face losses estimated at Rp300 million. They are seeking clarity on the fate of their missing friends and hope for compensation, as the horses were officially registered on the ship's manifest.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 12:57 WIB
Polda Metro Jaya Maps Disaster-Prone Areas, Boosts Preparedness
The Jakarta Metropolitan Police (Polda Metro Jaya) is enhancing its disaster preparedness by mapping vulnerable areas and strengthening personnel and equipment readiness. The initiative includes coordinating with multiple agencies to ensure rapid and integrated emergency response. The police also plan to increase public education on water conservation and fire prevention, while enforcing strict legal action against negligence causing fires.