Archive: 5 August 2026
Showing 151-200 of 1,487 articles
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 21:19 WIB
Culture Minister values fashion designers' ability to promote Indonesian textiles
Minister of Culture Fadli Zon has highlighted the crucial role of fashion designers in promoting traditional Indonesian textiles, such as batik, on the global stage. He emphasised the need for 'cultural downstreaming', where creative economy actors like designers bring cultural heritage to international prominence. The remarks were made in connection with designer Ivan Gunawan's 'Nusanova 2.0 Sekar Jagat' exhibition, which showcases Madurese batik motifs transformed into modern, high-fashion pieces.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 21:19 WIB
Health Minister Responds to Viral Patient's Plight: 'I Feel Sad, I Have Failed'
Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin expressed deep sorrow and a sense of failure following the death of a BPJS patient who had complained online about waiting eight hours for a hospital bed. The minister acknowledged shortcomings in Indonesia's healthcare facilities, equipment, and human resources, stating it is the government's duty to improve services to raise life expectancy.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 21:19 WIB
South Jakarta Court to Hear Febrie Adriansyah's Pretrial Motions on 18-19 August
The South Jakarta District Court has scheduled the first hearings for two separate pretrial motions filed by former senior prosecutor Febrie Adriansyah for 18-19 August 2026. The motions challenge his naming as a suspect and subsequent detention by the Attorney General's Office and the National Police's Corruption Eradication Corps in separate money laundering and corruption cases. The cases relate to alleged criminal acts involving the handling of the PT Asabri case and separate money laundering allegations.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 21:18 WIB
Two Helicopters Deployed to Extinguish 80-Hectare Bromo Fire
The National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) is deploying two water-bombing helicopters and a drone fleet to combat a forest and land fire on Mount Bromo that has spread to 80 hectares. The aerial operation was deemed necessary due to the extreme terrain, which is difficult for ground crews to access. The fire, which started in Lumajang Regency, has now spread to Probolinggo Regency.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 21:16 WIB
MPR Deputy Speaker Highlights Importance of Collaboration in Cultural Heritage Management
Deputy Speaker of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) Lestari Moerdijat has called for stronger collaboration between the government and communities to ensure cultural heritage remains a living, sustainable asset. A recent discussion revealed that current preservation policies are not well integrated, with site managers often burdened by private land ownership issues and a lack of clear support. Stakeholders, including lawmakers and cultural practitioners, stressed the need for a comprehensive approach that respects indigenous rights and fosters equal partnerships.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 21:16 WIB
West Java Provincial Government Changes BRT Service Scheme, Saves Rp10 Billion in Budget
The West Java Provincial Government has restructured the management of its Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) service, Metro Jabar Trans, by reducing the role of regional-owned enterprises. The change, formalised through a public service obligation subsidy agreement for the Greater Bandung metropolitan area, is projected to save the regional budget up to Rp10 billion annually.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 21:14 WIB
Deputy Home Minister urges regions to build 'Red and White Cooperative' ecosystem
Deputy Home Minister Bima Arya Sugiarto has called on regional heads to collaboratively build an ecosystem for the 'Koperasi Desa/Kelurahan Merah Putih' (KDKMP) to strengthen village economies. He stressed that the cooperatives are not intended to replace minimarkets but will serve as community service centres, providing simpan pinjam, groceries, and pharmacies. The initiative aims to shorten distribution chains, create jobs, and improve farmer welfare through better planning, transparency, and human resource development.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 21:13 WIB
Cloud Seeding Becomes a Lifeline Amid Prolonged Dry Season
As a severe dry season exacerbated by El Niño triggers widespread drought across Indonesia, cloud seeding is being touted as a critical emergency measure. The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) warns that the peak of the drought from August to September 2026 will severely impact Java, Bali, and southern Kalimantan, threatening agriculture and water supplies. With natural rainfall not expected until October, the government is under pressure to shift from prevention to impact control, deploying weather modification technology despite challenges posed by limited cloud cover.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 21:13 WIB
Polda Metro Jaya Foils Distribution of Four Kilograms of Cannabis in West Jakarta
The Jakarta Metropolitan Police's Narcotics Directorate has intercepted the circulation of approximately four kilogrammes of cannabis in the Palmerah district of West Jakarta. A 24-year-old man was arrested after a public tip-off led officers to discover the drugs concealed in chocolate boxes within a bubble-wrapped cardboard package. The suspect and evidence have been taken into custody for further investigation.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 21:12 WIB
Indonesia's poverty rate declines to 8.07 percent in March 2026
Indonesia's national poverty rate fell to 8.07 percent in March 2026, down from 8.25 percent in September 2025, with declines recorded across all regions. Java saw the sharpest reduction, though it remains home to the largest share of the poor, while rural areas experienced a rise in the depth and severity of poverty. The government under President Prabowo Subianto is targeting a further reduction to between 6.0 and 6.5 percent by 2027.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 21:12 WIB
Irish Leader's Jet Faces Landing Difficulties Amid Israeli Technology Boycott
Ireland's new government jet, a Dassault Falcon 6X, is reportedly unable to use its advanced anti-fog landing system because the technology was made by Israeli defence firm Elbit Systems. The system was removed due to Ireland's 2024 blacklist of Israeli defence equipment, potentially limiting the aircraft's operational flexibility in poor weather. The decision has drawn sharp criticism from Israel, while Dublin maintains the aircraft currently has no operational restrictions.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 21:11 WIB
Minister Arifah: Religious and Ethical Values Protect Children's Development
Minister of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection, Arifah Fauzi, has emphasised that instilling religious values, character, and ethics is crucial for safeguarding children's growth in the digital era. She stated that such a foundation helps children navigate negative content and peer pressure. The Minister also called on parents and schools to strengthen supervisory systems to prevent violence and bullying.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 21:11 WIB
Analyst Says Negative Issues Targeting Minister Dody Are a Counter-Attack
A public policy analyst suggests the recent spate of negative issues surrounding Public Works Minister Dody Hanggodo is a counter-attack from groups whose interests are threatened by his reforms. Trubus Rahardiansyah believes the minister's efforts to tighten oversight and rotate officials have disrupted established networks profiting from infrastructure projects. He urged the formation of a special team to investigate alleged irregularities, including potential links to online gambling, and stressed the need for strong political will from the President to support the clean-up.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 21:11 WIB
Health Minister Responds to BPJS Patient Death After Doctor's Mockery
Indonesia's Health Minister has addressed the case of a BPJS patient who died after reportedly being mocked by a doctor. The incident came to light after the patient shared their experience of waiting eight hours for a treatment room on social media. The Ministry of Health is responding to criticism regarding a lack of empathy shown by medical staff towards National Health Insurance participants.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 21:10 WIB
Indonesia to deploy homegrown 'kamikaze drone', says minister
Indonesia has developed its own 'kamikaze drone' and will deploy it to counter illegal smuggling across its borders, according to Defence Minister Sjafrie. The announcement was made during a major integrated military exercise in Riau Islands, which the minister said demonstrated significantly improved combat readiness and fulfilled ammunition requirements. Sjafrie urged more frequent military drills and called for continued legislative support to maintain the armed forces' enhanced capabilities.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 21:10 WIB
Hermina Hospital Operator (HEAL) Profit Plunges 14%, Here's Why
PT Medikaloka Hermina Tbk. (HEAL) reported a 14.08% year-on-year decline in net profit for the first half of 2026, despite a 6.51% increase in revenue. The profit erosion was driven by higher cost of revenue and a significant jump in operating expenses, particularly marketing and licensing costs. The company's total assets grew slightly to Rp11.99 trillion as of June 2026.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 21:09 WIB
BGN Reveals Main Cause of MBG Food Poisoning is Cooking Too Early
The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has identified that the primary cause of food poisoning in the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme is meals being prepared too far in advance. Investigations into incidents in Semarang and Papua found that kitchens began cooking as early as 7 p.m. the night before distribution, violating standard operating procedures. The agency's head has reiterated a zero-tolerance policy towards such safety lapses and procedural violations.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 21:09 WIB
KPK Seizes US$150,000 in Development of Banjarmasin Tax Office Bribery Case
The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has seized US$150,000 in cash from two tax officials as part of an ongoing investigation into a bribery case at the Banjarmasin Madya Tax Office. The funds were discovered during searches in Bandung and Tangerang, and are linked to a case involving a former tax office head and a restitution request from a palm oil company. The case originated from an alleged bribe related to a value-added tax restitution process worth Rp48.3 billion.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 21:09 WIB
South Sumatra Governor Initiates 'Export School' Campus to Foster Young Entrepreneurs
South Sumatra Governor Herman Deru has proposed the establishment of Indonesia's first outdoor 'Export School' campus to cultivate young, export-oriented entrepreneurs. The initiative aims to equip students with the skills and knowledge to penetrate global markets, supported by a forthcoming MoU between the provincial government, the Ministry of Trade, and universities. The programme is expected to launch in September and will connect participants directly with international buyers.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 21:09 WIB
BRI Supports Government Policy on Excess Budget Balance Fund Placement to Strengthen Banking Role
Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) has welcomed the government's move to optimise state cash management by placing Excess Budget Balance (SAL) funds with banks. The policy aims to maintain banking liquidity and strengthen intermediation to support national economic growth. BRI plans to channel the liquidity support into quality lending, particularly for the real sector and MSMEs, to generate a multiplier effect.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 21:08 WIB
Musi Banyuasin Reaches Top Six in National One-Stop Service Assessment
Musi Banyuasin Regency has been shortlisted among the top six regions in a national assessment of One-Stop Integrated Services (PTSP) and business licensing performance. The evaluation, conducted by the Ministry of Investment and Downstreaming, assessed 415 regencies and cities across Indonesia. The regency's leadership highlighted ongoing reforms in licensing transparency and public service infrastructure to boost investor confidence.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 21:07 WIB
North Jakarta Transport Agency Cracks Down on Dozens of Illegally Parked Motorcycles in Sunter Agung
The North Jakarta Transportation Agency (Sudinhub) has taken action against 27 vehicles parked illegally along Jalan Sunter Karya to ease congestion and restore pedestrian access. The operation, which included deflating tyres and towing vehicles, was conducted despite clear no-parking signs being in place. Local business owners have welcomed the enforcement, noting that official parking facilities are available but often ignored by motorists.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 21:07 WIB
Building With Indonesia: What Google’s Long-Term Commitment Reveals About the Future of Digital Partnerships
The article argues that Google’s most significant contribution to Indonesia’s digital economy is not its popular consumer products, but its consistent philosophy of building open platforms that lower barriers to participation. By providing foundational technologies like Android, TensorFlow, and Kubernetes, Google enables local developers, startups, and businesses to innovate and build their own capabilities. The piece suggests that the true measure of a technology partner for a nation like Indonesia should be how much it helps the country develop its own digital capacity, rather than simply expanding its user base.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 21:06 WIB
West Bangka Regency Strengthens Village Economy Through BUMDesa School
The West Bangka Regency government is bolstering village economies through its 'Sekolah BUMDesa Ubok Sekicing' programme, which has been running since 2022. The initiative provides managerial and business development training to village-owned enterprise (BUMDesa) managers, aiming to shift mindsets and enhance competitiveness. A recent session highlighted the need for product quality, professional governance, and strategic partnerships to drive sustainable village income.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 21:04 WIB
Bogor Environmental Agency Identifies Companies Suspected of Turning River Water Black as Oil
The Bogor District Environmental Agency has conducted covert surveillance and water sampling on the Cileungsi River, identifying several companies suspected of causing pollution that turned the water black and oily. Laboratory tests are underway to confirm the presence of hazardous substances, and proven polluters face sanctions ranging from temporary closure to permanent revocation of permits. The investigation follows viral reports of the heavily polluted waterway, which flows into the Kali Bekasi and has prompted joint monitoring efforts with Bekasi City authorities.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 21:04 WIB
Task Force Urges 16 Ministries to Expedite Sumatra Post-Disaster Rehabilitation Programme
Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian has called on 16 ministries and agencies to immediately execute their allocated budgets for the post-disaster rehabilitation and reconstruction programme in Sumatra. The initiative, which spans from 2026 to 2028, requires a total budget of Rp100.1 trillion, with affected regions also receiving additional transfer funds to support parallel recovery efforts. The government is emphasising the use of these funds for disaster mitigation and urging remaining agencies to coordinate with the Ministry of Finance to secure their allocations.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 21:03 WIB
Indonesia's Defense Minister sees stronger military readiness
Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin has observed a marked improvement in the combat readiness of the Indonesian Military following an integrated tri-service exercise in the Riau Islands. He noted that constraints in weapons procurement and ammunition availability have been largely overcome, with the exercise successfully demonstrating enhanced personnel and equipment capabilities. The drills form part of a broader government effort throughout 2026 to revitalise and strengthen the nation's defence posture.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 21:02 WIB
KPK Alleges Sin$14,000 Handover from Kuansing Regent to Forestry Minister
Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has alleged that Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni received Sin$14,000 from Kuansing Regent Suhardiman Amby. The funds are suspected to be linked to the release of a limited production forest area. The KPK also revealed that the money returned to the regency was incomplete, and further investigations are ongoing into additional payments made to other ministry officials.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 21:02 WIB
Government to Follow Up on Suspected Food Poisoning in Jayapura
The Indonesian government is taking a suspected food poisoning incident affecting schoolchildren in Jayapura seriously. A joint team will be deployed to verify the facts and conduct an on-site investigation. The findings will be used to evaluate existing programmes to prevent future occurrences.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 21:01 WIB
Unemployment in Jakarta falls by 10,000 people in May 2026
The number of unemployed people in Jakarta decreased by 10,000 in May 2026 compared to February, reaching 334,000, according to the Jakarta Central Statistics Agency (BPS). The decline was accompanied by a significant rise in full-time workers, indicating improved labour absorption. The open unemployment rate also fell to 5.79 percent from 6.03 percent over the same period.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 21:00 WIB
Indonesian Foreign Ministry Strengthens ASEAN Friendship Through Arts and Culture Scholarships
Indonesia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs is hosting 12 participants from ASEAN nations in the 22nd Indonesian Arts and Culture Scholarship programme to bolster regional ties. The initiative, running since 2003, is designed to foster people-to-people connections and mutual understanding through direct engagement with Indonesian arts, culture, and language. Officials emphasised that cultural diplomacy remains a vital tool for building confidence and bridging communities across national borders.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 21:00 WIB
Trump's New Catastrophe: The Whole World Could Feel the Impact
The Trump administration is finalising a plan to impose minimum import prices and tariffs on polysilicon and its derivatives, a move that could disrupt global supply chains for solar panels and semiconductors. The policy aims to shield US producers from China's dominant 80% share of solar manufacturing capacity but has sparked warnings of rising costs for renewable energy projects and consumer electronics. Industry figures fear the measures could lead to project cancellations, describing the potential fallout as 'collateral damage'.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 21:00 WIB
BRI Supports Optimisation of State Cash Management Instruments to Strengthen Quality Lending and Boost the Real Sector
Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) has welcomed the government's move to optimise state cash management through the placement of excess budget balance funds. The bank views the policy as a strategic measure to maintain banking liquidity and strengthen intermediation functions. BRI plans to channel the liquidity support into quality lending, particularly for the real sector and MSMEs, to generate a multiplier effect on the national economy.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 21:00 WIB
Soaring Feed Prices Spark Protest by Chicken Farmers in Solo
Chicken farmers in Solo, Central Java, staged a peaceful protest against the surging cost of animal feed, which they say is eroding their profits. The farmers distributed eggs to the public while urging the government to take concrete steps to reduce production costs and protect small-scale poultry operations. They called for policies that support their livelihoods and ensure their continued role in national food security.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 20:58 WIB
Nearly 200 museums and cultural heritage sites to be revitalised this year
The Indonesian government plans to revitalise nearly 200 museums and cultural heritage sites across the country this year, according to Culture Minister Fadli Zon. The initiative targets major landmarks such as Maimun Palace and Surakarta Palace, as well as provincial museums, with a focus on improving exhibition layouts to attract younger generations. Minister Zon praised North Sulawesi's allocation of regional funds for museum revitalisation while urging other governors to properly utilise the central government's special allocation funds for cultural advancement.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 20:58 WIB
Indonesia eyes near 6 percent economic growth in H2 2026
Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa expressed confidence that Indonesia's economy could expand by nearly 6 percent in the second half of 2026, following a solid 5.29 percent year-on-year growth in the second quarter. The government plans to boost domestic growth engines by increasing liquidity and lowering interest rates, while also addressing regional disparities, particularly in Maluku and Papua, through dedicated strategies.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 20:58 WIB
Analyst Urges Public Not to Be Provoked by Manipulative Social Media Content Ahead of August
A political analyst has warned the Indonesian public against being provoked by a surge of recycled and emotionally charged social media content ahead of August. The coordinated narratives, which mix economic grievances with disinformation, are seen as a systematic attempt to erode public trust and potentially destabilise the situation. The analyst urged the government to respond with transparent, data-based communication and called for improved digital literacy among citizens.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 20:57 WIB
Dozens of Free Nutritious Meal Kitchen Volunteers in Bima Suspected of Hepatitis Infection
Health screenings have revealed that dozens of volunteers working at Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) kitchens in Bima Regency, West Nusa Tenggara, are suspected of hepatitis infection. The cases were detected in the Bolo and Soromandi districts, prompting local health authorities to recommend the immediate replacement of affected workers. The move aims to prevent wider transmission within the government's flagship social welfare programme.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 20:56 WIB
Human Rights Ministry Discusses NCP Formation to Accelerate OECD Accession
Indonesia's Ministry of Human Rights, alongside economic and investment ministries, has initiated discussions on establishing a National Contact Point to speed up the country's accession to the OECD. The move aims to strengthen responsible business conduct and align national standards with international norms. Officials believe the mechanism will enhance Indonesia's investment climate by ensuring businesses uphold human rights and environmental standards.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 20:56 WIB
Purbaya's Strategy to Pursue 6% Economic Growth in Second Half of 2026
Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has outlined measures to accelerate Indonesia's economic growth towards 6% in the second half of 2026. The strategy involves injecting Rp70 trillion in excess budget funds into state banks and capping deposit rates for special mission vehicles to lower lending rates. These steps aim to build on the 5.61% growth recorded in the first quarter.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 20:55 WIB
Environment Minister Praises Tamangapa Landfill Progress in Ending Open Dumping
Indonesia's Environment Minister has lauded Makassar's rapid progress in closing open dumping sites at the Tamangapa landfill, with 93 per cent of waste piles now covered. The shift towards sanitary landfill methods has significantly reduced odour complaints from nearby residents. The minister highlighted the city's efforts as a national model for waste management reform following previous administrative sanctions.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 20:54 WIB
KPK Raids Two Homes in Banjarmasin Tax Bribery Case, Seizes USD 150,000
Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has seized a total of USD 150,000 in cash during raids on two homes linked to a tax bribery case in Banjarmasin. The searches, conducted in Bandung and Tangerang, targeted residences belonging to Directorate General of Taxes employees. The case involves a tax restitution scheme at the Banjarmasin Pratama Tax Office, with a former office head already named as a suspect.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 20:52 WIB
North Jakarta Theatre Festival provides space for artists to create
The North Jakarta municipal government is hosting the 2026 North Jakarta Theatre Festival, featuring ten theatre groups competing for prizes and the chance to represent the region at the provincial level. The five-day event at the Aki Tirem Arts and Culture Training Centre aims to nurture local talent and enrich the area's cultural scene. Winners will receive cash prizes, with the top three groups advancing to the DKI Jakarta provincial competition.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 20:51 WIB
Intellectual Property Could Surpass Natural Resources in Value, Says Indonesian Vice Minister
Vice Minister of Law Otto Hasibuan stated that Indonesia's intellectual property (IP) has the potential to be more valuable than its natural resources. The government is drafting a cross-ministerial roadmap to develop the national IP ecosystem, with the Ministry of Law acting as the lead institution. The initiative aims to boost innovation and will be integrated into the national development plan.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 20:50 WIB
Manufacturing Stock and Production Indices Rise but Employment Falls: What Does It Signal?
Indonesia's Manufacturing Business Conditions and Prospects Index (IKBM) rose to 52.31 in the second quarter of 2026, driven by increases in orders, production, and raw material inventories. However, the employment component fell into contractionary territory, suggesting firms remain cautious about hiring despite strengthening activity. The statistics bureau noted the stock build-up reflects anticipatory strategies for future demand rather than a current slowdown.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 20:49 WIB
Health Minister Saddened After BPJS Patient Who Faced Doctor's Mockery Dies
Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin expressed his sorrow over the death of a BPJS patient who was previously mocked online by a doctor. The minister emphasised the government's commitment to improving healthcare services to raise the national life expectancy. The incident sparked public outrage after the patient's social media post complaining about long waiting times drew scornful comments from medical professionals.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 20:49 WIB
KPPOD: Additional Fiscal Transfers to 79 Regions Will Not Resolve Fiscal Crisis, 2026 State Budget Revision Needed
The Regional Autonomy Monitoring Committee (KPPOD) has warned that providing additional Fiscal Transfers (TKD) to only 79 local governments fails to address the true scale of Indonesia's regional fiscal crisis. KPPOD argues that data from the Ministry of Home Affairs indicates around 90 per cent of the country's 546 regional governments have low fiscal capacity. The organisation is urging the central government and the House of Representatives (DPR) to revise the 2026 State Budget Law to ensure a fairer allocation of general allocation funds, revenue-sharing funds, and special allocation funds for all regions.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 20:46 WIB
Taiwan Launches Han Kuang Military Drills, Simulating Chinese Invasion
Taiwan has commenced its annual Han Kuang military exercises, designed to simulate a full-scale defence against a potential Chinese invasion. The drills feature the largest-ever deployment of reserve forces and incorporate new communication methods inspired by the US military. The exercises also test civilian resilience, including simulated telecommunications disruptions in major cities.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 20:44 WIB
Indonesia pushes integrated sharia ecosystem for economic growth
Indonesia's government is advocating for a fully integrated Islamic economic ecosystem to unlock the vast potential of its Muslim community. The initiative calls for collaboration among organisations, businesses, and sharia-based startups, emphasising a shift towards a Quadruple Bottom Line that balances profit with social, environmental, and spiritual benefits. Authorities also urged industry players to strengthen sharia compliance to address public scepticism over certain Islamic-labelled investment schemes.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 20:43 WIB
Fadli Zon Supports Proposal for Achmad Mochtar as National Hero
Culture Minister Fadli Zon has endorsed the proposal to confer the title of national hero on Professor Dr Achmad Mochtar, citing his extraordinary sacrifice as a scientist. Mochtar, who headed the Eijkman Institute during the Japanese occupation, chose to sacrifice his own life to protect his colleagues. The minister believes this recognition aligns with the government's push to honour inspirational figures from diverse fields beyond politics and the military.