Archive: 9 August 2026
Showing 101-150 of 715 articles
Sun, 09 Aug 2026, 20:43 WIB
Indonesia steps up intercity bus safety checks as violations persist
The Indonesian Ministry of Transportation is intensifying oversight of intercity and interprovincial bus services after data revealed persistent safety violations. Monitoring across 115 terminals showed that over half of departing buses were flagged for issues such as route deviations and expired permits. The government emphasises that building a culture of safety requires consistent enforcement and commitment from all stakeholders.
Sun, 09 Aug 2026, 20:40 WIB
KPK Searches 15 Locations in Pemalang Regent Extortion Case
The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has conducted searches at 15 locations across Central Java and Magelang as part of an investigation into an extortion case involving the suspended Regent of Pemalang, Anom Widiyantoro. The searches, which took place from August 5 to 8, resulted in the seizure of documents and CCTV footage. The KPK previously arrested the regent and seized evidence worth IDR 2.7 billion, including cash found in his car and at various residences.
Sun, 09 Aug 2026, 20:39 WIB
Golo Koe Festival in Labuan Bajo to be Opened by Tourism Minister Widiyanti Putri
Tourism Minister Widiyanti Putri Wardhana is scheduled to open the fifth Golo Koe Maria Assumpta Nusantara Festival in Labuan Bajo, marking its national recognition as a Top 10 Kharisma Event Nusantara. The week-long festival, organised by the Catholic Diocese of Labuan Bajo and the West Manggarai Regency Government, blends cultural performances with ecological action, including mangrove planting and a ban on single-use plastics. The event aims to promote faith, culture, and environmental stewardship, culminating in a grand maritime procession and a Eucharistic celebration.
Sun, 09 Aug 2026, 20:36 WIB
National Police Chief Invites Youth to Become Digital Security Ambassadors
National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo has called on Indonesian youth to leverage technological advancements for positive contributions and to help maintain security in the digital sphere. Speaking at the conclusion of the E-Sports Kapolri Cup 2026, he highlighted the professional ecosystem emerging from gaming, which now creates economic opportunities beyond entertainment. The initiative aims to channel youth energy away from harmful activities while addressing rising digital threats such as online fraud and gambling.
Sun, 09 Aug 2026, 20:35 WIB
Pertamina Launches Integrated Public Information Service to Strengthen Governance
State-owned energy giant PT Pertamina has officially launched an integrated public information service, consolidating its various communication channels to enhance transparency and responsiveness. The initiative, praised by the Central Information Commission, aims to build public trust through accurate, fast, and accountable information dissemination.
Sun, 09 Aug 2026, 20:32 WIB
Ahmad Sahroni Treats Kebon Bawang Residents to MSME Products
Deputy Chairman of the House of Representatives' Commission III, Ahmad Sahroni, marked his birthday by distributing over 2,500 portions of food and drink from local micro, small, and medium enterprises to residents in Tanjung Priok, North Jakarta. The initiative, organised through the Ahmad Sahroni Center, aimed to share his celebration with the community while directly supporting small businesses in the area. Residents and traders expressed appreciation for the politician's consistent community engagement and the economic boost provided to local vendors.
Sun, 09 Aug 2026, 20:32 WIB
PTFI Promotes Environmental Awareness Through Community Clean-Up in Gresik
PT Freeport Indonesia (PTFI) has spearheaded a community clean-up initiative in Dusun Banyutami, Gresik, East Java, to foster environmental stewardship. The event, involving employees and local residents, focused on cleaning public spaces, riverbanks, and planting greenery. PTFI emphasised that the initiative aims to build sustainable habits and strengthen collaboration with communities near its operational areas.
Sun, 09 Aug 2026, 20:32 WIB
Dedi Mulyadi Calls Bounty on Begal a Form of Psychological Warfare
West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has defended his controversial bounty programme for street criminals, framing it as a necessary psychological countermeasure to combat public fear. He argues that tackling crime requires not only law enforcement but also building public courage to prevent criminals from dominating communities. The governor also pledged that the provincial government will cover medical expenses for victims of violent street crime and support the families of those killed.
Sun, 09 Aug 2026, 20:30 WIB
Police to Exhume Sutrimo's Body: What Is Exhumation and Why Is It Done?
Indonesian police are set to exhume the body of Sutrimo, a man reportedly linked to a former senior prosecutor, to determine his cause of death. The procedure, known as exhumation, involves legally digging up a corpse for forensic examination. It is a legal process governed by the Criminal Procedure Code, requiring family notification and aimed at uncovering evidence of criminal activity.
Sun, 09 Aug 2026, 20:29 WIB
Indonesia-Thailand ties gain momentum with US$20B trade target by 2030
Indonesia and Thailand have set an ambitious target of US$20 billion in bilateral trade by 2030, underpinned by a new five-year strategic partnership roadmap. The goal appears increasingly attainable after trade reached US$9.8 billion in the first half of 2026, alongside a sharp narrowing of Indonesia’s trade deficit. The strengthened ties were marked by the first official visit of a Thai prime minister to Jakarta in 15 years, resulting in new agreements on education, direct flight connectivity, and security cooperation.
Sun, 09 Aug 2026, 20:27 WIB
MV Cape San Juan Arrives in Lampung with Military Equipment for Super Garuda Shield
The MV Cape San Juan has docked at Panjang Port in Lampung, delivering military equipment for the multinational Super Garuda Shield 2026 exercise. The equipment will be transported to Baturaja, South Sumatra, one of the training locations. Port operator Pelindo is coordinating with the Indonesian military to ensure secure and efficient logistical support.
Sun, 09 Aug 2026, 20:26 WIB
Egypt, Indonesia Explore Dual Trade Deals to Expand North African Investment Footprint
Indonesia and Egypt are advancing plans for a dual-track trade framework, including both a Preferential Trade Agreement and a Free Trade Agreement, to boost bilateral investment and market access. Trade Minister Budi Santoso and Egyptian Minister Mohamed Farid Saleh discussed convening a Joint Trade Committee meeting and launching joint ventures in sectors like garment manufacturing. The initiative builds on Indonesia's significant trade surplus with Egypt, which reached $442.30 million in the first half of 2026, as Jakarta seeks to use Cairo as a gateway to North African and Middle Eastern markets.
Sun, 09 Aug 2026, 20:25 WIB
Examining the Rise of China's Industry from a Broader Perspective
As China expands its manufacturing dominance in sectors like electric vehicles and renewable energy, Western nations are reviving accusations of 'overcapacity' to justify new trade barriers. However, this perspective overlooks the decades of investment, innovation, and market reforms underpinning China's industrial competitiveness. The country's manufacturing capacity plays a crucial role in stabilising global supply chains and providing affordable technology that lowers industrialisation barriers for developing nations.
Sun, 09 Aug 2026, 20:22 WIB
KAI's Surabaya Commuter Network Serves Over 10 Million Passengers in First Seven Months of 2026
PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) has reported that its Commuter Line Area VIII Surabaya network served 10,009,552 passengers between January and July 2026, marking an 8.15 percent increase compared to the same period in 2025. The network, which connects Surabaya with cities across East Java and into Central Java, has seen consistent annual growth, rising from 13.36 million passengers in 2023 to 16.02 million in 2025. KAI highlighted the service's vital role in supporting work, education, trade, and tourism mobility across the region.
Sun, 09 Aug 2026, 20:20 WIB
Why the world now views China more positively
Global perceptions of China have improved markedly, with a Pew Research Center survey showing it is now viewed more favourably than the United States in 25 of 36 countries. This shift is attributed to China's domestic development record, its perceived reliability as a partner through tangible infrastructure projects, and increased openness to tourism. The findings suggest a growing international preference for partnership and predictability over competition and pressure.
Sun, 09 Aug 2026, 20:18 WIB
Government accelerates Red and White Cooperatives to drive village economic independence
The Indonesian government is accelerating the construction of 'Red and White Cooperatives' (Koperasi Merah Putih) across the country, targeting 30,000 units to be operational by Independence Day on 17 August 2026. Coordinating Minister Zulkifli Hasan stated that 9,294 units have completed physical construction, with the initiative aiming to serve as a hub for staple goods distribution, local product marketing, and community business development. In South Sumatra, 3,258 cooperatives are being prepared for a simultaneous launch to boost economic self-reliance at the village level.
Sun, 09 Aug 2026, 20:18 WIB
Pakistan says Mecca Agreement purely defensive in nature
Pakistan's Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has clarified that the trilateral defence pact signed with Turkiye and Saudi Arabia is purely defensive and not aimed at any country. The agreement, signed in Mecca, treats an attack on one signatory as an attack on all three, in line with the UN Charter. Dar emphasised the pact is open to other regional states and aims to bolster peace, stability, and prosperity through strategic cooperation.
Sun, 09 Aug 2026, 20:17 WIB
The Ankara-Riyadh-Islamabad Golden Triangle: Reading the Deterrent Effect of the 2026 Makkah Pact
The signing of the Mecca Joint Defence Agreement in August 2026 by Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan marks a historic geopolitical shift, establishing a self-reliant security architecture in the Islamic world. The pact, which treats an attack on one as an attack on all, combines Turkey's advanced defence industry, Pakistan's nuclear deterrence and battle-hardened military, and Saudi Arabia's financial muscle. This strategic alliance is a direct response to the destabilisation of the Gulf following US-Israeli military escalation against Iran.
Sun, 09 Aug 2026, 20:17 WIB
China's Economy Shows Stable Improvement in July, SIC Data Reveals
China's economy demonstrated stable improvement across multiple sectors in July, according to high-frequency data from the State Information Center. Offline consumption grew steadily, investment structure improved, and innovation remained robust, with notable surges in home appliance payments and high-end manufacturing investment. The data suggests a broadening recovery and strong momentum in strategic emerging industries.
Sun, 09 Aug 2026, 20:17 WIB
TNI Holds Joint Exercise 'Perisai Trisula Nusantara' to Showcase Combat Readiness
The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) conducted a large-scale integrated exercise involving land, sea, and air components in Lingga, Riau Islands. The drill, named 'Perisai Trisula Nusantara', aimed to test the interoperability of modern defence equipment and evaluate personnel readiness. The exercise is designed to strengthen Indonesia's deterrence capabilities in safeguarding national sovereignty.
Sun, 09 Aug 2026, 20:15 WIB
Bromo Wildfire Expands to 520 Hectares, Full Closure of Tourist Area Enforced
A wildfire in the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park has scorched approximately 520 hectares of land, including savanna and edelweiss flowers, since it was first reported on Monday. Authorities suspect the blaze, which started in the non-tourist Bantengan Block, was triggered by human activity and exacerbated by dry weather conditions. The national park has been completely closed to tourists since Saturday evening, with officials offering rescheduling or refunds for pre-purchased tickets.
Sun, 09 Aug 2026, 20:15 WIB
MTQ Serves as Platform for Islamic Outreach and Community Development in North Kayong
The West Kalimantan Provincial Government has expressed pride in the successful organisation of the 34th Provincial Musabaqah Tilawatil Qur’an (MTQ) in Sukadana, North Kayong Regency. Officials emphasised that the event, which drew over 2,500 attendees, was not merely a competition but a vital medium for fostering public love and understanding of the Qur’an. The North Kayong Regent highlighted that the true victory lies in embodying Qur’anic values in daily life, rather than simply winning awards.
Sun, 09 Aug 2026, 20:15 WIB
Ceuta Mayor Says 11,000 Moroccan Migrants Remain in Spanish Enclave
The Mayor of Ceuta, Juan Jesus Vivas, has claimed that up to 11,000 undocumented Moroccan migrants remain in the Spanish enclave, sharply contradicting Madrid's official figure of 2,500. Vivas stated the city has not returned to normal following a mass influx in late July, which placed significant strain on local facilities. The discrepancy highlights ongoing tensions between local and central authorities over the handling of the migration crisis at the Spain-Morocco border.
Sun, 09 Aug 2026, 20:14 WIB
Riau Police Destroy 11 Illegal Gold Mining Rafts in Kuantan Singingi
The Riau Regional Police have destroyed 11 illegal gold mining (PETI) rafts in Kuantan Singingi Regency during a large-scale operation. The crackdown, conducted on 9 August 2026, targeted unlicensed mining equipment in Kuantan Tengah and Benai districts. Authorities stated the operation reinforces their commitment to environmental protection and law enforcement under the 'Green Policing' programme.
Sun, 09 Aug 2026, 20:10 WIB
Minister urges public to help prevent forest and land fires
Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni has called for public participation in preventing forest and land fires, particularly during the dry season. He emphasised that community involvement is crucial to support government efforts, especially in minimising the use of fire near forested areas. The appeal came during a visit to the Mount Bromo area, where collaborative firefighting operations involving water bombing are underway.
Sun, 09 Aug 2026, 20:10 WIB
Mount Gede Wildfire: Hundreds of Personnel Still Battling to Extinguish Blaze
A wildfire on Mount Gede in West Java has scorched over six hectares of land, with around 150 firefighters and volunteers struggling to contain the flames. The blaze, suspected to have been caused by natural factors such as extreme heat igniting dry vegetation, is proving difficult to control due to inaccessible terrain and strong winds. Authorities are continuing to investigate the exact cause while efforts remain focused on preventing the fire from spreading further.
Sun, 09 Aug 2026, 20:07 WIB
Sumatran Elephant Found Dead in Aceh Tamiang Oil Palm Plantation
A critically endangered Sumatran elephant has been discovered dead in an oil palm plantation in Aceh Tamiang, with the cause of death still under investigation. Officials from the Aceh Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA) and local police have been dispatched to the remote site. The incident highlights the ongoing threat to the species, which faces extinction due to habitat loss and human-wildlife conflict.
Sun, 09 Aug 2026, 19:55 WIB
Lombok's Bukit Pergasingan to Reopen with Mandatory Waste Deposit for Hikers
Bukit Pergasingan in East Lombok is set to reopen on 12 August after a temporary closure prompted by a viral video highlighting littering. New regulations will require all hikers to pay a deposit for each potential waste item and repack their belongings. The management aims to implement a more competent waste handling system to preserve the natural site.
Sun, 09 Aug 2026, 19:54 WIB
Pertamina Patra Niaga Ensures Fuel Distribution Security in Riau Islands
The Board of Commissioners of PT Pertamina Patra Niaga has confirmed that fuel distribution in the Riau Islands is secure following an inspection of the Tanjung Uban Integrated Terminal. The visit assessed operational readiness and the security of this vital national asset, which serves as a backbone for energy distribution in Sumatra and supports supply to West Kalimantan. The delegation also discussed security synergies with the Indonesian Navy and reviewed community empowerment programmes in Batam.
Sun, 09 Aug 2026, 19:51 WIB
Sumatran Elephant Found Dead in Oil Palm Plantation
A critically endangered Sumatran elephant has been found dead in an oil palm plantation in Aceh Tamiang, with the cause of death still unknown. Authorities are investigating the incident, which highlights the ongoing conflict between wildlife and agricultural expansion. Conservation officials have urged the public to help protect the species by preserving its natural habitat and refraining from harmful actions.
Sun, 09 Aug 2026, 19:50 WIB
School Foundation Founder Speaks Out on Discovery of 995 Weapons
The founder of the Harapan Ibu School Foundation has expressed sadness over the police discovery of 995 airsoft guns and firearms on the school's premises. The foundation's legal representative denied any internal conflict and challenged claims that the weapons were for an extracurricular activity, while the owner of the weapons insists they are legal and were stored for a planned shooting club.
Sun, 09 Aug 2026, 19:49 WIB
Registration for 81st Independence Day Ceremony Invitations Closed, Government Prepares Public Festival at Monas
The Indonesian government has officially closed registration for invitations to the 81st Independence Day ceremony at the Merdeka Palace, expressing gratitude for the overwhelming public enthusiasm. For those unable to secure an invitation, the government has arranged open public events, including a People's Party at the National Monument and a carnival along Jalan Thamrin. The initiative aims to ensure all citizens can participate in celebrating the nation's independence.
Sun, 09 Aug 2026, 19:45 WIB
PLN promotes electric vehicle ecosystem through EVplore at SBY-Ani Museum
Indonesia's state electricity company PLN is expanding its electric vehicle ecosystem into the tourism sector by launching the EVplore programme at the SBY-Ani Museum in Pacitan, East Java. The initiative includes cashback incentives for EV-driving visitors and the installation of fast-charging infrastructure. Local officials welcomed the move, stating it supports the national energy transition and enhances tourist convenience.
Sun, 09 Aug 2026, 19:45 WIB
Russian Retail Giant Wildberries' Warehouses Bombed, £4.5 Billion Wiped Out
A series of Ukrainian drone strikes has destroyed or disrupted up to $5 billion in inventory at Russian e-commerce giant Wildberries, hitting nearly two dozen warehouses deep inside Russian territory. The attacks threaten not only the heavily indebted company but also thousands of small businesses and the Russian banking sector, prompting the Kremlin to discuss a potential state bailout.
Sun, 09 Aug 2026, 19:42 WIB
KPK Seizes Documents and Electronic Devices in Bengkulu Graft Probe
Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has seized documents and electronic devices from three locations in Bengkulu as part of an investigation into a graft case involving Rejang Lebong Regent M Fikri Thobari. The searches targeted the homes of the Bengkulu DPRD secretary and a food security official, among others. The case relates to alleged bribes totaling Rp 1.7 billion linked to infrastructure projects worth Rp 91.13 billion.
Sun, 09 Aug 2026, 19:41 WIB
UNVR Market Share Rises, Analyst Maintains Add Rating on Unilever Indonesia Shares
PT Unilever Indonesia (UNVR) recorded its first quarterly market share increase since 2024 in the second quarter of 2026, driven by strong volume growth in its home and personal care segment. CGS International Sekuritas maintained its 'Add' recommendation but lowered the target price to Rp 2,040, citing higher input costs and an increased weighted average cost of capital. The analyst expects margin pressure to ease in the second half of the year as transformation costs decline and price adjustments take effect.
Sun, 09 Aug 2026, 19:40 WIB
Japan Offers 100,000 Job Openings for Indonesian Workers, Says Deputy Minister
Japan is offering 100,000 job opportunities annually for Indonesian workers, according to Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Science and Technology Stella Christie. The Indonesian government plans to establish a task force to coordinate university career centres in preparing graduates for these roles. This initiative builds upon an existing government-to-government programme that places Indonesian nurses and careworkers in Japan.
Sun, 09 Aug 2026, 19:39 WIB
InJourney Strengthens Service Standards for Tourism Villages in Lombok Ahead of MotoGP
InJourney Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC) is conducting training for residents of a tourism village in Central Lombok to enhance hospitality service standards in preparation for the 2026 MotoGP event at the Mandalika Circuit. The programme aims to improve the competence of local participants, including guides and homestay owners, in delivering professional and memorable tourist experiences. This initiative is part of a broader effort to build a sustainable tourism ecosystem and boost the local economy through quality service.
Sun, 09 Aug 2026, 19:38 WIB
Bromo fire damage area expands to 520 hectares
The area affected by wildfires in the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park has expanded to 520 hectares, driven by strong winds. Firefighting efforts continue with water bombing helicopters and ground patrols working to extinguish remaining hotspots.
Sun, 09 Aug 2026, 19:35 WIB
Bank Tata Asia: Employee Health as a Long-Term Investment
Bank Tata Asia has integrated employee health into its corporate sustainability strategy, viewing it as a long-term investment rather than merely a welfare issue. The bank recently conducted AI-based medical check-ups for all staff, utilising retinal imaging technology to screen for cardiovascular and eye health risks. The initiative aims to foster a culture of preventive healthcare and enhance long-term productivity and competitiveness.
Sun, 09 Aug 2026, 19:32 WIB
Megawati Attends Launch of Erros Djarot's Autobiography
Former Indonesian President Megawati Soekarnoputri attended the launch of Erros Djarot's autobiography in Jakarta, highlighting her close ties with the vocal artist and political figure. The event combined a book discussion with musical performances and drew a diverse crowd of artists, journalists, and political figures, including Anies Baswedan.
Sun, 09 Aug 2026, 19:31 WIB
Semarang Customs Foils Circulation of 3.2 Million Illegal Cigarettes
Customs officials in Semarang intercepted a truck carrying 3.28 million illegal cigarettes at the Banyumanik toll gate. The illicit goods, valued at approximately Rp4.87 billion, were concealed beneath a load of galvanised iron. The operation prevented an estimated Rp3.17 billion in potential state revenue losses from excise duty evasion.
Sun, 09 Aug 2026, 19:30 WIB
Ahead of 81st Independence Day, These Are Indonesia's Largest Religious Groups
As Indonesia approaches its 81st Independence Day, government data highlights the distribution of the country's officially recognised religions. Islam remains the dominant faith, with over 87% of the population adhering to it, while Christianity, Hinduism, Buddhism, and Confucianism constitute significant minorities. The data underscores the nation's motto, 'Bhinneka Tunggal Ika' (Unity in Diversity), reflecting its complex religious landscape.
Sun, 09 Aug 2026, 19:29 WIB
SGN Reports Acceleration Efforts Yield 8 Percent Rendement at Sugar Factories
PT Sinergi Gula Nusantara (SGN) has reported achieving an 8 percent rendement at several of its sugar factories, signalling the success of its operational acceleration programme. The state-owned enterprise's 'Revolution 888' initiative, which focuses on improving cane quality and processing efficiency, is credited with the improved performance. The company believes this progress strengthens the national drive towards sugar self-sufficiency.
Sun, 09 Aug 2026, 19:27 WIB
KPK Raids 15 Locations in Pemalang Regent Extortion Case, Seizes Hotel CCTV
The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has conducted searches at 15 locations across Central Java as part of its investigation into the extortion case involving the suspended Regent of Pemalang, Anom Widiyantoro. During the raids, investigators seized project documents, electronic evidence, and CCTV footage from a hotel in Magelang. The case originated from a sting operation in Jakarta, where the KPK previously confiscated cash totalling Rp 2.7 billion.
Sun, 09 Aug 2026, 19:27 WIB
Creative Economy Minister Supports Padang's Bid to Become UNESCO City of Gastronomy
Indonesia's Creative Economy Minister Teuku Riefky Harsya has expressed full support for Padang's bid to join the UNESCO Creative Cities Network as a City of Gastronomy. The endorsement was made during the 'Talk on Taste' event, part of the city's 357th anniversary celebrations, which also featured a charity mass cooking of 1,000 portions of nasi goreng rendang. If successful, Padang would become Indonesia's first city to receive the gastronomy designation, with local government pledging comprehensive improvements to infrastructure and services to meet UNESCO requirements.
Sun, 09 Aug 2026, 19:25 WIB
Sumenep Prepares 7.1 Hectares of Land for Permanent Sekolah Rakyat
The Sumenep Regency Government has allocated 7.1 hectares of land in Batuan District for the construction of a permanent Sekolah Rakyat, a national priority school programme. The land, originally intended for a sports centre, was proposed after an initial site failed to meet requirements. Officials from the Ministry of Social Affairs have praised the local government's commitment and suggested forming a joint secretariat to expedite the development.
Sun, 09 Aug 2026, 19:23 WIB
Nusantara Capital Authority Records Incoming Investment at Rp208.7 Trillion
The Nusantara Capital City Authority (OIKN) has reported that total investment entering the new capital project has reached Rp208.7 trillion. This figure comprises Rp74.54 trillion in private investment and Rp134.22 trillion through public-private partnership schemes. The authority continues to court investors, with potential fiscal incentives on offer for regional partners such as Central Java.
Sun, 09 Aug 2026, 19:22 WIB
PLN and Rappo Collaborate to Empower Communities Through Recycled Furniture
State electricity firm PLN and Rappo Indonesia have partnered to boost the local economy in South Sulawesi by turning plastic waste into furniture and crafts. The 1.5-year-old programme has processed 10.5 tonnes of waste, producing chairs, tables, and plaques that are now sold to individuals, cafes, and private companies. The initiative aims to support a circular economy, create jobs, and improve the financial independence of underprivileged residents.
Sun, 09 Aug 2026, 19:19 WIB
Jesus Vivas: 11,000 Moroccan Immigrants Still in Ceuta
The mayor of Ceuta, Juan Jesus Vivas, has disputed Spanish government figures, claiming that between 8,000 and 11,000 undocumented Moroccan immigrants remain in the enclave. This contrasts sharply with Madrid's official estimate of 2,500, following a significant influx in late July. The discrepancy highlights ongoing tensions over migration management in the Spanish territory on the North African coast.