Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 15 September 2026

Showing 1-500 of 1,830 articles

Saudi Arabia Withdraws Emergency Warning Over Potential Attack in Mecca

Saudi Arabia briefly issued an emergency warning covering several regions including Mecca and Jeddah amid a wave of attacks by Iran-aligned armed groups over the past week. The warning, the widest since the recent escalation, was quickly withdrawn with no projectiles reported, while a Houthi strike on Monday wounded 13 civilians.

Six Bodies of KMP Virgo Transport 8 Victims Successfully Identified

The Disaster Victim Identification (DVI) team of the South Kalimantan Regional Police has identified six victims who died when the passenger vessel KMP Virgo Transport 8 sank in the Java Sea on the Surabaya-Banjarmasin route. As of Tuesday morning, 114 of the 243 people on board had been found — 108 survivors and six dead — while 129 remain missing as joint search and rescue operations continue by sea and air, with underwater searches being prepared at a depth of around 30 metres.

An Economic Crisis Once Struck Madinah in Early Islam — Here Is How the Prophet Muhammad Overcame It

The migration of Muslims to Madinah strained the fledgling state's economy, prompting the Prophet Muhammad to introduce measures including a brotherhood system between the Muhajirin and Ansar and the establishment of ash-Shuffah to shelter the poor. Observing that economic power rested in the hands of the Jewish community, who controlled markets and wealth, he founded a new tax-free market beside Masjid Nabawi and regulated it to eliminate fraudulent pre-Islamic trade practices.

Amnesty questions three-hour delay before KMP Virgo called for help

Amnesty International Indonesia has called for an independent, impartial and thorough investigation into the sinking of KMP Virgo Transport 8 in the Masalembo waters of the Java Sea, including a possible three-hour delay before the ship's crew requested assistance. The organisation wants accountability if negligence is found on the part of the operator, port authorities or government regulators. As of Tuesday morning, 114 people had been found, including 108 survivors and six dead, while 129 remained missing.

KM Virgo Captain Found Alive, Deputy Transport Minister: Under Investigation

The captain of KM Virgo Transport 8 has been found alive and is being questioned over the vessel's sinking in the Masalembo waters of the Java Sea. As of Tuesday evening, 114 of the 243 people on board had been found, with 108 survivors and six dead, leaving 129 still missing as search teams hunt for the ship's voyage data recorder.

Bulog ready to accelerate food aid distribution for 33.2 million recipients

State logistics firm Perum Bulog has pledged to speed up the distribution of rice food aid to 33.2 million beneficiaries, working alongside the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) to strengthen delivery across the country. The move follows President Prabowo Subianto's approval of additional aid totalling 1 million tonnes of rice from October to December 2026, plus another 1 million tonnes of SPHP rice, as the government braces for a potential El Nino and the year-end holiday period.

Body Found on Enggano Island Does Not Match Data on Eight People Missing Near Anak Krakatau

A forensic specialist at Banten's Bhayangkara Hospital has stated that a body recovered on Enggano Island does not match antemortem data for the group of journalists who went missing near Mount Anak Krakatau. DNA tests with family reference samples sent to Bengkulu police are nonetheless under way, with results expected within a week. Five journalists and three boat crew members have been missing since departing for the volcano on 7 September.

BP Tapera and Bank Jakarta socialise FLPP scheme to Tanah Kusir cemetery workers

BP Tapera and Bank Jakarta have held a socialisation event on the FLPP housing financing scheme for more than 200 PJLP workers at Tanah Kusir public cemetery in South Jakarta. Bank Jakarta said it would shift from an individual to an ecosystem-based approach, working proactively with BP Tapera and the DKI Jakarta provincial government to reach low-income borrowers.

SBM ITB Guides 150 MSMEs Through Business Challenges

The Bandung Institute of Technology's School of Business and Management (SBM ITB) has launched its Coaching Clinic MSMEs 2026 Batch 16, providing three to six months of business mentoring for around 150 micro, small and medium enterprises. Run in partnership with YGKT48 and Akseleraksi, the programme combines personal mentoring, networking and the GROW method to help entrepreneurs tackle rising operational costs, shifting consumer behaviour and margin pressure.

The Asset Forfeiture Bill Must Not Fall Behind the Times: Digital Crime Moves Faster Than the Law

As the Asset Forfeiture Bill enters serious deliberation in Commission III of the House of Representatives, with 13 predicate offences under consideration and online gambling possibly added, this analysis argues the bill must be designed for modern digital crime rather than yesterday's offences. The author urges technology-neutral drafting, stronger asset-tracing capabilities, and cross-border cooperation to pursue proceeds flowing through crypto assets, e-wallets and digital platforms, alongside robust legal safeguards against abuse of state power.

Government measures AI adoption success by its benefits to the public

Deputy Minister of Communication and Digital Nezar Patria said the government gauges the success of artificial intelligence adoption in public services by improvements in service quality and tangible benefits for citizens. Speaking at the AI Incubation for Public Sector Demo Day 2026, he stressed that solutions must be adapted to local languages, norms, data and needs, and that data protection underpins trustworthy public services.

Hanura hopes Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara will deliver solutions on regional funds

Hanura Deputy Chairman Patrice Rio Capella has urged the newly appointed Finance Minister, Suahasil Nazara, to address regional leaders' concerns over transfers to the regions and revenue-sharing funds. He called on the central government to ease budget restrictions, warning that some regions struggle to pay civil servants' salaries, let alone fund infrastructure.

To Support National Connectivity, Government Urged to Strengthen Shipping Safety Systems

Following the sinking of KM Virgo Transport 8 near Surabaya, MP Bambang Haryo Soekartono has called for a thorough investigation into cargo capacity and distribution rather than rushing to blame the vessel's age. He urged stronger port weighbridge oversight, safety inspections, and enhanced national rescue capabilities, while also pressing PT Jasa Raharja to promptly compensate the victims.

Amran: Fortified rice fraud drives price surge and food inflation

Agriculture Minister and National Food Agency chief Andi Amran Sulaiman said suspected irregularities in fortified rice contributed to rising rice prices and renewed food inflation. Government laboratory tests found 25 fortified rice brands did not match their labels, with prices reaching Rp57,000 per kilogram against an expected Rp13,500, allegedly causing consumers losses of up to Rp89 trillion. The government has responded with rice aid to 33.2 million beneficiary families and market stabilisation operations.

Moscow backs US idea for Russia-Ukraine energy truce

Moscow has expressed support for President Donald Trump's proposal for a moratorium on attacks on energy facilities between Russia and Ukraine, with Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov saying Russia is continuing to communicate with Washington on the initiative. Peskov also called for the lifting of sanctions on energy supplies, arguing this would boost global availability of petroleum products and push prices down.

HIPMI Welcomes Appointment of Suahasil Nazara as Finance Minister

The Central Board of the Indonesian Young Entrepreneurs Association (BPP HIPMI) has welcomed the appointment of Suahasil Nazara as Finance Minister, calling it a strategic moment to strengthen investor confidence and fiscal policy effectiveness. HIPMI Chairman Ade Jona Prasetyo urged that state spending must deliver tangible multiplier effects for the real economy, domestic industry, SMEs and local employment.

Prison Sentence for Killing a Friend After Taunts Using Parent's Name

The Supreme Court has rejected the prosecutor's cassation appeal and upheld a 13-year prison sentence against Distranito (19) for murder. The killing was triggered by the victim mocking the defendant using his parent's name during a quarrel in August 2025, which escalated into a knife duel resulting in the victim's death.

Former BKPM Official of Nearly 30 Years Highlighted in PT Genba Multi Mineral Ownership

State institutions have been asked to examine the ownership change of mining company PT Genba Multi Mineral, including the source of acquisition funds and its beneficial owners. The name of Achmad Kurniadi, a former BKPM official of nearly three decades, has surfaced in documents requesting scrutiny of his wealth records. No legal violations or conflicts of interest have been concluded so far.

What's Special About Samsung's M16 Display Used in the iPhone Duo

Samsung Display has introduced its latest LTPO OLED panel, the M16, which Apple has adopted for the new iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone Duo series. The panel boasts peak brightness of up to 10,000 nits, 30 per cent lower power consumption than its M14 predecessor, and LEAD 2.0 technology for improved colour accuracy and efficiency. It features a WQHD resolution, a 1–165Hz variable refresh rate, 3,300Hz PWM dimming, and is expected to appear in upcoming devices from iQOO and Samsung.

KPK probes further alleged corruption at ATR/BPN Ministry following Summarecon sting operation

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) suspects additional corruption within the Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency (ATR/BPN), beyond the building-use rights case involving PT Summarecon Agung Tbk. Acting investigations director Achmad Taufik Husein said officials allegedly received payments relating to staff mutations, promotions and other land services, including Rp2.1 billion from PT Bela Parahiyangan Investindo channelled through intermediaries described as confidants of Minister Nusron Wahid. The revelations follow Monday's sting operation in Jabodetabek that netted 19 arrests and eight suspects.

Indonesia shifts family planning focus as population ages

Population and Family Development Minister Wihaji told DPR Commission IX that Indonesia is shifting family planning policy away from the 'two children are enough' concept towards improving national family quality, amid an ageing population structure. Measures include delaying marriage, preventing child marriage, and strengthening maternal and child health programmes under the Bangga Kencana initiative. Complementary programmes such as Genting and Dashat have mobilised nearly 160,000 foster parents with an estimated Rp72 billion in assistance to combat stunting.

Deputy Transport Minister: Captain of KM Virgo Transport 8 Under Examination Over Shipwreck

The captain of KM Virgo Transport 8, which capsized in the Masalembo waters of the Java Sea, is undergoing questioning as part of the investigation into the accident, according to Deputy Transport Minister Suntana. As of Tuesday evening, 114 of the 243 people on board had been found — 108 survivors and six dead — leaving 129 still unaccounted for as SAR teams race to locate the missing.

China affirms AI safety commitment amid calls to slow development

China has reaffirmed its balanced approach to AI development and safety, responding to calls from US industry figures such as Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei, Elon Musk and Sam Altman to slow frontier AI development. Beijing released its AI Safety Governance Framework 3.0 and supports UN-led multilateral AI governance, whilst 29 countries including Indonesia signed the WAICO framework in July 2026.

USU Professor Endorses Smallholder Palm Oil Corporation Model Amid Land Fragmentation

Professor Diana Chalil of the University of Sumatera Utara has backed a corporatisation model for independent oil palm farmers as a crucial step to strengthen their bargaining power amid shrinking landholdings. National data show 61.3 percent of agricultural households manage less than 0.5 hectares, limiting operational efficiency. She proposed six pillars for farmer corporations, anchored by the nucleus-plasma partnership scheme with plantation companies.

North Sulawesi Prosecutor's Office names EL a suspect, environmental losses Rp11 billion

The North Sulawesi High Prosecutor's Office has named EL as a suspect in a corruption case involving mining operations at PT Hakian Wellem Rumansi (HWR) in Ratatotok, South East Minahasa, with environmental damage valued at Rp11.05 billion. Investigators seized over Rp3.2 billion in cash, gold, and a stone crusher, and the case has previously implicated a former provincial energy official and two foreign nationals.

Deputy Minister of AGR hopes Agrarian Reform Law will resolve land issues

Deputy Minister of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning Ossy Dermawan hopes the proposed Agrarian Reform Law will resolve persistent land disputes, following complaints raised by regional leaders at a meeting with the House of Representatives. Legislator Azis Subekti said the bill is a crucial step towards reducing land ownership inequality, with the DPR aiming for a land Gini ratio of 0.30.

Second-Hand Laptops Become an Alternative Route to Technology Access for Students and Workers

The growing need for computing devices among students, workers and small businesses is outpacing many people's ability to buy new equipment, fuelling demand for second-hand laptops in Depok. Republic Laptop has opened an outlet in Margonda offering quality-checked used devices, a one-year warranty, trade-in, rental and repair services, emphasising transparency and after-sales support to build trust in the second-hand device market.

Accommodation and modification of learning can help children with SLD

Dr Farid Agung Rahmadi, a paediatric growth and development specialist, said learning accommodations and modifications at school can help children with Specific Learning Disorder (SLD) access lessons and reach the same targets as their peers. Examples include extra exam time, fewer questions measuring the same core competencies, and simplified reading materials. He stressed that implementation should involve parents, teachers and professionals working together.

Expert: PP TUNAS penalties push electronic system operators towards child-friendly tech innovation

Cybersecurity expert Pratama Persadha has said that fines under Government Regulation TUNAS will not stifle innovation by local Electronic System Operators (PSE) but will instead encourage child-safe digital products built on security and child safety by design principles. He called for stronger digital literacy and risk-based oversight by the government. The Ministry of Communication and Digital had earlier announced penalties of up to six per cent of global revenue for large global PSE, and fines of Rp1 billion to Rp10 billion for domestic private operators depending on business scale.

MUI: New Finance Minister Could Consider Zakat as a 'Tax Credit'

The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) has urged newly appointed Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara to accelerate the sharia economy, including considering zakat as a direct tax credit. MUI also proposed establishing Danantara Syariah with CEO Rosan Roeslani to build a solid ecosystem for sharia financial instruments.

Sumenep Regency Administration Facilitates Pickup of Survivors of KMP Virgo

The Sumenep Regency Administration in East Java is facilitating the retrieval of local survivors of the KMP Virgo Transport 8, which sank in the Masalembu waters of the Java Sea early on Sunday. Regent Achmad Fauzi Wongsojudo confirmed one resident from Sumenep, named Vepy, survived the disaster and expressed condolences to all victims whilst praising the swift response of search and rescue teams.

PTFI targets 5 million pounds of copper cathode production at Gresik smelter this month

PT Freeport Indonesia expects its Manyar smelter in Gresik, East Java, to produce around 5 million pounds of copper cathode in September 2026 after resuming concentrate feed in August. The smelter was previously halted due to insufficient concentrate supply following the Grasberg Block Cave landslide in September 2025. Production is projected to rise sharply, with full mining capacity targeted to recover by 2028.

Fernando Soares Elected Chair of HKTI East Nusa Tenggara, Pledges to Defend Farmers' Rights

Fernando Soares, who is also Deputy Speaker of the East Nusa Tenggara Regional House of Representatives, was unanimously elected chair of the East Nusa Tenggara Farmers' Harmony Association (HKTI) for 2026-2031. He pledged that the organisation would move beyond ceremony to provide real advocacy for farmers, focusing on issues such as access to resources, policy, and the supply of seeds and fertiliser.

Bantul maps vulnerability zones for simultaneous village-head elections across 30 kalurahan

The Bantul Regency Government in Yogyakarta has mapped potential vulnerabilities ahead of the simultaneous village-head elections (Pilur) scheduled for 4 October 2026 in 30 kalurahan. Key risks include candidacies by serving officials, former lurah and incumbents, with authorities urging tighter security during candidate determination, campaigning, the quiet period and voting day. Officials also stressed rapid response to public reports and synchronising vulnerability data across agencies.

Malaysian National Suspected of Killing Leatherback Turtle in Raja Ampat Arrested While Attempting to Fly to Kuala Lumpur

A Malaysian national, identified as WS, was apprehended by immigration officers at Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport in Makassar as he attempted to fly to Kuala Lumpur. He is suspected of killing a protected leatherback turtle in the waters of Raja Ampat, Southwest Papua, after a viral video appeared to show him shooting the animal with a spear gun. The arrest followed a request from the Raja Ampat regency government to prevent him from leaving Indonesia and evading the legal process.

Customs Foils Smuggling of 29 Kg of Gold Worth Rp73.3 Billion Abroad

Indonesia's Directorate General of Customs and Excise has thwarted attempts to smuggle 29 kilogrammes of gold worth Rp73.3 billion out of the country via four airports. The seizures, made in September 2026, form part of tightened surveillance of the movement of valuable goods through Indonesia's entry and exit points.

Backing Government's Industrial Downstreaming Programme, STANIA and Asahi Solder Forge Partnership

PT Solder Tin Andala Indonesia (STANIA), a subsidiary of PT Arsari Tambang, has signed an MoU with Singapore's Asahi Solder to strengthen Indonesia's tin downstreaming industry through value-added solder products, technology transfer and market expansion. The partnership supports the government's industrial downstreaming agenda and forms part of Arsari Group's broader vision of linking natural resources to advanced manufacturing, electronics and AI infrastructure.

MTI Stresses the Importance of Thorough Ship Seaworthiness Inspections

Djoko Setijowarno, an adviser to the Indonesian Transport Society (MTI), has called for comprehensive ship seaworthiness inspections following the sinking of the Virgo Transport 8 in the Java Sea. He insisted that inspections must cover stability, machinery, navigation, communications, safety equipment, crew certification and environmental protection, warning that certificates must not be mere administrative formalities.

I-CHIP UMJ to Drive the Strengthening of Research-Based Health Policy

Universitas Muhammadiyah Jakarta has launched the Indonesian Center for Health Policy (I-CHIP), a new research centre aimed at strengthening evidence-based and equitable health policy. Health Minister Budi Gunandi Sadikin and Education Minister Abdul Mu'ti both emphasised the importance of public health programmes such as the Free Health Check scheme. The centre's director identified three key challenges: the gap between policy and research, poorly targeted budgets, and universities' ivory-tower image.

South Jakarta to set up subsidised housing administration posts

South Jakarta Mayor Syafrin Liputo announced plans to establish FLPP housing subsidy administration posts across the city's 10 districts and 65 urban villages to speed up data verification. Around 210 individual housing service providers (PJLP) in the Tanah Kusir area are first in line to receive subsidised financing, with roughly 5,000 more expected to follow under the Three Million Homes Programme.

Nusron Wahid's Trusted Aide Said to Have Received Rp1.5 Billion, Says KPK

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has revealed that Erwin, a confidant of Agrarian and Spatial Planning Minister Nusron Wahid, received Rp1.5 billion from private company president director Adrianto Pitojo Adhi. The payment was allegedly made to unblock and subdivide building use rights certificates in Bogor Regency, with Rp200 million passed on to the Bogor land office head.

Sumbawa pushes blue economy centred on Saleh Bay

The Sumbawa Regency Government in West Nusa Tenggara is promoting a blue economy around Saleh Bay by developing marine and tourism potential with community involvement. Deputy Regent Mohamad Ansori stressed that conservation and community welfare can reinforce each other, citing the bay's role as a nursery ground for whale sharks and its UNESCO-recognised SAMOTA biosphere status.

Expert Reveals How to Help Dyslexic Children Achieve Learning Targets

A paediatric development specialist has stated that children with specific learning disorders such as dyslexia require structured intervention to build effective coping mechanisms. Speaking at a seminar hosted by the Indonesian Paediatric Society (IDAI), Dr Farid Agung Rahmadi emphasised that with the right support, these children can achieve learning outcomes equal to their peers. He stressed the importance of intensive, systematic strategies and close cooperation between families, schools and health professionals.

Bahlil Reveals Cause of Long Fuel Purchase Queues at Makassar Petrol Stations

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia attributed the long fuel queues in Makassar, South Sulawesi, to consumers shifting from non-subsidised to subsidised fuel, as well as hoarding using vehicles with modified tanks. Police found trucks with enlarged tanks capable of holding up to one tonne of subsidised fuel. The ministry is working with the regional government and police to untangle the queues, while local authorities have imposed odd-even number plate rules and night-time refuelling for large vehicles.

SOE Ministry: Resolution of LRT City Project Problems Targeted for Completion by 15 October 2026

Deputy Head I of the SOE Ministry Aminuddin Ma'ruf has confirmed that the problems surrounding the LRT City property project, developed by Adhi Karya subsidiary PT Adhi Commuter Properti, are to be resolved by 15 October 2026 at the latest. The government is currently inventorying the grievances of around 2,000 affected consumers, which will form the basis for the settlement model. Danantara is also set to inject Rp 456 billion to continue construction across 12 project locations.

Housing Minister demands accountability for completion of LRT City

Housing and Settlement Areas Minister Maruarar Sirait has called on all parties responsible for the stalled LRT City project to be held accountable so buyers can receive their homes. Around 2,400 of some 5,400 units sold have yet to be handed over to consumers. BP BUMN head and Danantara COO Dony Oskaria has ordered Adhi Karya to complete the handovers without causing losses to buyers, especially first-time home owners.

To Boost Music Tourism and the Creative Economy, DKI Provincial Government Backs YE Live In Jakarta 2026

The DKI Jakarta Provincial Government is throwing its full support behind 'YE Live In Jakarta 2026' on 24 October at the Main GBK Stadium, the only Southeast Asian and Oceanian stop on the artist's tour. Governor Pramono Anung said the concert is an opportunity to showcase Jakarta as a global city and to drive economic benefits across hotels, restaurants, transport, retail and the creative industries. Early ticket sales show strong international demand, with 52.8% of purchases in the first 24 hours coming from fans across 73 countries.

Legislator pushes for strengthening DTSEN to ensure social aid reaches the right targets

A member of the House of Representatives' Commission VIII, Muhammad Abdul Azis Sefudin, has urged the government to prioritise improving the National Socio-Economic Single Data (DTSEN) rather than focusing on opening 200 million new bank accounts for social assistance distribution. He warned the plan, backed by around Rp11 trillion in state budget funds, risks duplicate and dormant accounts given that only about 15.3 million working-age Indonesians remain unbanked. The initiative follows President Prabowo Subianto's directive to boost financial inclusion.

KAI Daop 3: Beware of Online Ticket Scams Exploiting PayLater, Know the Modus Operandi

PT KAI Operational Area 3 Cirebon has warned the public about a ticket scam exploiting victims' PayLater facilities. Fraudsters persuade victims to buy tickets on credit using the perpetrator's identity, then cancel the tickets and pocket the refund, leaving victims liable for the instalments. The company urged people never to let others use their PayLater accounts.

Bad Weather Delays Underwater Search for 129 Missing from KM Virgo Transport 8 Yet Again

The underwater search operation for 129 passengers missing after the sinking of KM Virgo Transport 8 in the Masalembo waters of the Java Sea was postponed again on day three due to bad weather. The combined SAR team has been reinforced to 1,000 personnel, whilst the South Kalimantan Deputy Governor has visited victims' families at the Trisakti Port post in Banjarmasin.

KSPSI gives DPR until 22 September deadline over Employment Bill

The All-Indonesian Workers' Union Confederation (KSPSI) led by Andi Gani Nena Wea has demanded that deliberations on the Employment Bill accommodate workers' interests, giving the House of Representatives until 22 September 2026 to respond. If no concrete answer is received, KSPSI will stage a peaceful protest in Jakarta on 24 September, mobilising up to 50,000 motorbikes and petitioning President Prabowo Subianto.

Defence Minister praises Japanese military assistance in tackling Kalimantan wildfires

Indonesian Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin has praised the Japanese military for its assistance in combating forest and land fires in Kalimantan, personally thanking his Japanese counterpart Shinjiro Koizumi by telephone. The deployment of three CH-47 Chinook helicopters operates under a defence cooperation arrangement signed in May 2026, whilst the Indonesian government remains the leading sector in fire response.

Madina Community Gold Miners Await Legal Certainty

Artisanal gold miners in Mandailing Natal, North Sumatra, are calling on the government to regulate their activities through clear legal mechanisms covering mining zones, permits, work safety and market access. Local legislator Teguh W. Hasahatan Nasution supports expanding designated Community Mining Zones (WPR), noting that although a 2022 ministerial decree established some zones, obtaining people's mining permits remains costly and technically burdensome.

KPK: Nusron's confidant received Rp1.5 billion from Summarecon President Director

Indonesia's anti-graft agency KPK has revealed that Erwin, a confidant of Agrarian Affairs Minister Nusron Wahid, received Rp1.5 billion from PT Summarecon Agung's President Director Adrianto Pitojo Adhi. The payment allegedly related to unblocking land certificates and splitting building rights (HGB) at the Bogor land office. KPK has named eight suspects in the case, including senior ministry and Golkar officials.

Leading Cabinet Meeting, Mohammed bin Salman Affirms Saudi Defence Is Non-Negotiable

Saudi Arabia's Cabinet, chaired by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, declared that national security, territorial integrity and defence capabilities are absolute, non-negotiable principles. The statement followed intensified Houthi air attacks that injured 13 civilians in the kingdom's south-west. The declaration affirms Saudi Arabia's legal right to self-defence under the UN Charter and international law.

Transport Ministry intensifies search and handling of KMP Virgo victims

The Ministry of Transport is coordinating cross-agency efforts to search for victims of the KMP Virgo Transport 8 accident and to support survivors and bereaved families. Of the 243 people on board, 114 have been found so far — 108 alive and six dead — while 129 remain missing. The ministry has issued a Notice to Mariners and deployed the state navigation vessel KN Kunyit to assist communications during the ongoing operation.

Deputy Transport Minister: Five victims' bodies from KM Virgo to be returned home on Wednesday

Deputy Minister of Transportation Suntana confirmed that five identified victims of the sunken KM Virgo Transport 8 will be flown to their home regions on Wednesday. As of Tuesday evening, 114 people had been found — 108 survivors and six dead — leaving 129 still missing out of the 243 aboard.

Forestry Ministry urges universities to help prevent forest and land fires

The Ministry of Forestry is encouraging Indonesian universities to contribute to preventing and controlling forest and land fires through research and technology, such as satellite-based hotspot monitoring. Speaking at the UI GreenMetric Sustainable University Rankings Indonesia 2026 event in Yogyakarta, officials stressed that sustainability must be embedded in campus governance, education and operations rather than remaining a physical or administrative exercise.

DJSN gathers workers' aspirations to improve quality and sustainability of JKN

The National Social Security Council (DJSN) has met with labour union representatives to gather input on the development of the National Health Insurance (JKN) programme, including a draft presidential regulation. Unions raised concerns over the standard inpatient class (KRIS), Indonesian Diagnosis Related Groups (iDRG), and the competency-based referral system, urging careful, evidence-based implementation.

Canada to sell operating concessions for its four largest airports

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced plans to sell long-term concessions to operate and upgrade the country's four largest airports, located in Toronto, Montreal, Calgary and Vancouver. The government will retain ownership of the airports, their assets and land, whilst proceeds will be reinvested in regional airports, improved regional and remote air services, and new transport infrastructure.

F&B Orders on Tokopedia and TikTok Shop Rise 95 Per Cent

Food and beverage activity on Tokopedia and TikTok Shop surged in the first half of 2026, with the number of sellers up 184 per cent year-on-year and orders growing nearly 95 per cent. The growth reflects shifting consumer behaviour, with culinary content on TikTok expanding 52 per cent through 2025 and generating more than 8 million video posts by September 2026.

Expert stresses importance of enforcing sanctions against violators of PP Tunas

Cybersecurity expert Pratama Persadha has emphasised that consistent enforcement, not merely large fines, is key to deterring Electronic System Operators (PSE) from violating Government Regulation No. 17 of 2025 on child protection (PP Tunas). He argued that the six per cent global revenue fine could push companies to invest in child safety technologies. Communications and Digital Minister Meutya Hafid confirmed tiered fines ranging from Rp1 billion to Rp10 billion for domestic operators depending on business scale.

Iran and US: Two Countries and the Pistachio Between Them

Pistachio farmers in Iran's Rafsanjan region and California's Central Valley are facing severe land subsidence as groundwater over-extraction for irrigation causes the ground to sink by up to 37 centimetres annually. California has responded with the 2014 Sustainable Groundwater Management Act and managed aquifer recharge programmes, while Iran's regulatory efforts remain stalled awaiting government approval. The crisis has undermined Iranian growers already weakened by international sanctions, with California having overtaken Iran as the world's largest pistachio producer.

YE Live In Jakarta 2026 to Boost Music Tourism and the Creative Economy

The YE Live In Jakarta 2026 concert at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium on 24 October is projected to draw more than 11,000 foreign tourists and involve around 4,600 workers, boosting music tourism and Indonesia's creative economy. Jakarta is the only Southeast Asian and Oceanian stop on the tour, and both the Jakarta provincial government and the Tourism Ministry have backed the event as a driver of tourism-related economic activity.

MPR targets delivery of constitutional study findings to the public in 2027

The People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) aims to deliver the full report of its constitutional study to the public by early 2027. Deputy Speaker Lestari Moerdijat said the institution is opening broad avenues for public participation, including the e-Aspirasi Konstitusi online channel, to gather societal input beyond political recommendations.

Researcher urges shift from reactive to anticipatory disaster management

A researcher at The Indonesian Institute has called for Indonesia to move from a reactive to an anticipatory and responsive approach to disaster management following the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. She highlighted that vulnerable groups face heightened risks when disaster response systems are not designed inclusively, and urged pre-positioning of relief supplies and better community preparedness training.

PAEI: New Finance Minister opens opportunities for expanded financing through the capital market

David Nathanael Sutyanto, Chairman of the Indonesian Securities Analysts Association (PAEI), believes the appointment of Suahasil Nazara as Finance Minister creates opportunities to expand long-term financing through the capital market via shares, corporate bonds, sukuk and asset-based instruments. He cautioned that market credibility depends on domestic fiscal discipline and urged transparency in government financing, clearer division of responsibilities with SOEs and Danantara, and coordination with BI, OJK and LPS.

Thousands of Residents Join Majalengka Regent, Deputy and Ulama for Istisqa Prayer Amid Drought

Thousands of residents, alongside the Majalengka regent, deputy regent and religious leaders, performed the Istisqa prayer at the Majalengka square on Monday to seek rain during a prolonged dry season. Regent Eman Suherman said the drought has dried up wells, left paddy fields short of water and triggered forest and land fires. He framed the prayer as both a spiritual effort and a moment for society to reflect and show greater care for others and the environment.

11 Bima City Police Officers Change Posts, Here Is the List

Eleven officers of the Bima City Police Resort in West Nusa Tenggara were installed in new posts in a ceremony led by Bima City Police Chief AKBP Mubiarto. Mubiarto described the rotation as part of routine career development within the National Police aimed at improving performance and public service. He urged the new officers to adapt quickly, maintain continuity of existing programmes, and uphold the institution's good name.

Hundreds of Tonnes of Mineral Treasure Discovered in Madinah

Saudi Arabia has announced the discovery of an estimated 110 million tonnes of ore containing rare earth minerals and promising uranium concentrations at Jabal Sayid near Madinah. The find, revealed by Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman at an IAEA conference in Vienna, could position the kingdom to develop its own nuclear fuel cycle and export materials to the United States.

Residents of Mecca and Jeddah Told to Take Shelter as Saudi Arabia Issues Emergency Warning

Saudi Arabia issued an emergency warning on Tuesday over a 'potential danger' threatening Jeddah, Mecca and Taif, urging residents to seek shelter immediately. The alert comes amid renewed escalation between Saudi Arabia and Yemen's Houthi rebels, who have launched ballistic missiles and armed drones at Saudi cities and infrastructure. Saudi forces have in turn intensified air strikes on Houthi positions in Yemen.

Basarnas Anticipates Anak Krakatau Activity in Search for Five Missing Journalists

The joint SAR team searching for eight people missing in the Sunda Strait has entered its eighth day, but now faces volcanic activity from Mount Anak Krakatau. According to PVMBG, shallow volcanic activity suggests an accumulation of energy that could trigger a larger eruption, prompting the team to base all movements on official recommendations. The search continues across five sea sectors with numerous vessels deployed, amid waves of 0.5 to 2.5 metres.

Job Fair Offers 6,700 Vacancies to Enliven National MTQ in Central Java

Central Java's Manpower and Transmigration Office will hold a job fair at Gajahmada Plaza car park in Semarang on 17-18 September 2026, in conjunction with the 31st National Musabaqah Tilawatil Quran. Some 40 companies will participate, offering 6,736 vacancies across manufacturing, services, medical, outsourcing and overseas placement sectors.

SARGA Motorsport introduces Kevin Hansen ahead of Rallycross World Cup

SARGA Motorsport has unveiled Swedish driver Kevin Hansen ahead of the FIA Rallycross World Cup 2026, to be held at the Ancol Rallycross Circuit in Jakarta on 5–6 December 2026. The event, backed by the Jakarta provincial government, is being positioned as a milestone for Indonesian motorsport development and a showcase of international-standard venue infrastructure.

Sebastien Loeb and Kevin Hansen Set to Star at FIA Rallycross World Cup Indonesia 2026

Rallycross stars Sebastien Loeb and Kevin Hansen have been confirmed for the FIA Rallycross World Cup Indonesia 2026, to be held at Ancol Circuit in Jakarta on 5-6 December. The event, backed by the Jakarta provincial government and the Indonesian Motor Association (IMI), is expected to boost Indonesia's position on the global motorsport map and accelerate domestic racing talent development.

Summarecon Boss Paid Rp 1.5 Billion to Nusron's Confidant Erwin After Rp 2 Billion Demand

The KPK has revealed that PT Summarecon Agung President Director Adrianto Pitojo Adhi paid Rp 1.5 billion to Erwin, a confidant of ATR/BPN Minister Nusron Wahid, to unblock building-use rights (HGB) on land in Bogor Regency. The demand was initially Rp 2 billion, but Summarecon could only pay Rp 1.5 billion as other brokers reportedly expected fees, with Erwin passing Rp 200 million on to Bogor land office head Sontang Coin Manurung. Eight suspects have been named, four of whom are believed to be confidants of Minister Nusron Wahid.

East Java legislator asks Finance Minister to review cuts to regional funding

An East Java provincial councillor has urged Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara to review cuts to the Transfer to Regions (TKD) scheme, warning they undermine regional fiscal capacity. TKD for East Java's regional governments is set to fall by roughly Rp14.9 trillion in the 2026 budget year. The legislator called for funding to be balanced according to each region's fiscal strength.

OJK Says Plan to Move Civil Servant Payroll to State-Owned Banks Has Little Impact in Bali

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) of Bali has assessed that the central government's plan to shift civil servant (ASN) payroll management to state-owned banks (Himbara) will have minimal impact on Bank Pembangunan Daerah (BPD) Bali. According to stress tests, the exposure amounts to only around Rp 2 billion per month from roughly 400 civil servants, compared with the bank's total assets of about Rp 44 trillion. Other regional banks, such as Bank Jabar, face far greater risk as civil servant credit exposure exceeds 60 per cent of their portfolios.

Chronology of Livestock Thief Fatally Shot by Police in West Sumba

East Nusa Tenggara Regional Police have released the chronology of a shooting that killed a livestock theft suspect, identified as JT, at his home in West Sumba. The incident sparked a violent crowd attack on the West Sumba Police headquarters, during which a police service vehicle was set ablaze.

Fast-Track Implementation of Article 34: Gus Ipul Invites All South Sulawesi Regional Governments to Become Social Protection Agents

Minister of Social Affairs Saifullah Yusuf (Gus Ipul) has called on regional governments, the TNI-Polri and social pillars in South Sulawesi to act quickly on the constitutional mandate of Article 34 of the 1945 Constitution by serving as social protection agents. He outlined three presidential mandates—accurate data, well-targeted social assistance, and the Sekolah Rakyat programme—and announced that data updates have opened assistance to more than 4.3 million new beneficiary families. The visit concluded with the signing of a regional land grant agreement for the construction of Sekolah Rakyat.

Sustainability of tourism industry requires cross-sector collaboration

Sandiaga Salahuddin Uno and other figures at the Bali Tourism Awards 2026 stressed that Indonesia's tourism industry needs stronger collaboration among government, industry, education and communities to remain competitive. Bali Governor I Wayan Koster noted that quality tourism should remain rooted in local culture and economic upliftment. The event presented 38 awards across personal, hospitality and institutional categories.

Bidding Farewell to Seek New Hope in Kalimantan, Ahda Missing Aboard KM Virgo Transport 8

Ahda Dhiyaurrohman, a 19-year-old from Solo, is among the passengers still missing after KMP Virgo Transport 8 capsized in the Java Sea on 13 September. He had been travelling to Kalimantan to work on a palm oil plantation, leaving behind a farewell photo with his family. Of the 243 passengers, only 108 have been rescued and six confirmed dead.

Taxi overturns after crashing into road barrier near Tebet 2 Toll Gate

A taxi overturned in a single-vehicle accident near the Tebet 2 Toll Gate in South Jakarta on Tuesday evening, reportedly after the driver fell asleep and lost control. The driver, a resident of Cibubur, survived unharmed. Traffic police from Polda Metro Jaya and the Pancoran traffic accident unit managed the scene and cleared the wreckage.

ATR/BPN Sting Operation Must Be a Momentum to Fight the Land Mafia

A member of Commission III of the House of Representatives has urged the KPK to use its sting operation against officials at the Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency (ATR/BPN) as a springboard to dismantle the entire land mafia network. Eight suspects have been named, including senior ministry officials, with evidence in cash estimated at hundreds of billions of rupiah.

Why Palace Is Confident New Finance Minister Will Succeed

The government's communications agency, Bakom, has expressed confidence that newly appointed Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara will perform well, citing his academic credentials as a University of Indonesia economics professor and his six to seven years of experience as deputy finance minister. Suahasil was promoted in President Prabowo Subianto's cabinet reshuffle on 14 September 2026, replacing Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa, and has been instructed to maintain the credibility and health of the state budget to fund priority programmes.

Kremlin: BRICS could form new institutions within a few years

A senior Russian presidential aide, Maxim Oreshkin, said decisions on establishing new BRICS institutions could be taken at upcoming summits, possibly in China. He suggested the bloc could eventually develop bodies akin to the OECD, while noting the New Development Bank's expanding mandate after a successful 18th summit in New Delhi. BRICS, which includes Indonesia, accounts for roughly 40 per cent of global GDP and nearly half the world's population.

Bosscha explains why the Venus occultation phenomenon appeared differently across regions

The Bosscha Observatory in Lembang explained that the Moon's occultation of Venus appeared differently across Indonesian regions due to viewing geometry and local weather conditions. Observations from Semarang, Yogyakarta and Lamongan varied from a grazing pass to a mere conjunction. The ITB-led livestream involved collaborators from Lampung to Bangkok, though several teams were hampered by cloud, rain and fog.

DPR: ATR/BPN Official Sting an Opportunity to Dismantle Land Mafia Network

A member of the House of Representatives' Commission III, Abdullah, has urged the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) to use its sting operation against officials at the Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency (ATR/BPN) as momentum to dismantle the entire land mafia network. The KPK named eight suspects, including a director-general, and seized an estimated hundreds of billions of rupiah in cash allegedly paid to expedite building rights title (HGB) processing for a private company in Bogor. Abdullah also called for full digitisation of land services to improve transparency.

Governance Strengthened, Investor Confidence Becomes the Foundation of the Investment Industry

Strengthened governance and regulatory compliance are seen as key to building public trust in Indonesia's investment industry, particularly among commodity futures traders. PT Dupoin Futures Indonesia has relocated its operational office to Centennial Tower in South Jakarta after securing approval from Bappebti. The move reflects the company's efforts to enhance operational capacity and service quality for its clients.

Ministry boosts family quality to face ageing population

The Ministry of Population and Family Development/BKKBN is strengthening family quality and resilience to prepare Indonesia for an ageing population, with projections showing the over-65 demographic growing while productive-age groups shrink. Minister Wihaji outlined strategies to the House of Representatives' Commission IX, including family empowerment programmes and stunting-reduction efforts that have reached around one million at-risk families.

Yemen Conflict Intensifies, UN Says 125,000 People Displaced

The United Nations reports that at least 125,000 people have been displaced amid renewed fighting between Yemeni government forces and the Houthi movement since early September. OCHA has called on all parties to comply with international humanitarian law as civilian casualties, half of them women and children, continue to mount.

BPDP backs sustainable corporatisation of oil palm farmers

The Palm Oil Plantation Fund Management Agency (BPDP) has reaffirmed its support for the sustainable corporatisation of smallholder oil palm farmers in Indonesia. Under the People's Oil Palm Rejuvenation (PSR) programme, some Rp12.86 trillion has been disbursed to 187,782 farmers covering 428,745 hectares, with the partnership route launched in May 2023 accelerating replanting efforts.

Legislator Urges Regional Governments to Optimise Land Asset Management: Innovation Required

Taufan Pawe, a member of Commission II of the House of Representatives, has urged regional governments to manage their land assets productively, warning that neglected land could be seized by the Land Bank. He also criticised the government's Rp 1 trillion reward fund for high-performing regions as insufficient, calling for clearer grading criteria.

South Jakarta Police Respond Swiftly After Project Worker Reports Disturbance by Street Buskers

Pesanggrahan Sector Police in South Jakarta responded promptly to reports from construction workers in Ulujami who said they were being disturbed by street buskers. Officers also handled separate incidents involving debt collectors repossessing a vehicle and a landowner dispute involving an excavator in Bintaro, all following calls to the National Police hotline 110.

Land Title Bribe Originated from Land Dispute

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has revealed that an alleged bribery case involving the processing of building use rights (HGB) for a private company in Bogor Regency, West Java, began as a land dispute with heirs holding freehold certificates. Eight suspects have been named, including a director general at the Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning, the Bogor Land Office head, and figures described as trusted associates of Minister Nusron Wahid.

PKS Questions NTB Social Aid Surge to Rp 40 Billion

The PKS faction in the West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) provincial parliament has demanded transparency over a 980.95 per cent surge in social assistance funds, from Rp 3.7 billion to Rp 40 billion, in the 2026 revised regional budget. The party also flagged a ballooning deficit, debt repayment cuts and an ambitious local revenue target, urging prudent fiscal management.

Mechanic in Garut Arrested by Police for Distributing Psychotropic Drugs

Police in Wanaraja, Garut Regency, West Java, have arrested a 28-year-old mechanic with the initials PA for possessing and distributing psychotropic-class medications from a house. Officers seized 66 tablets of various drugs, cash of Rp35,000 and 11 prescription sheets listing patient, doctor and pharmacy names. The case highlights ongoing police efforts to stem the illicit circulation of prescription psychotropics in the region.

Contest for Demokrat NTB Regional Chairmanship Heats Up Ahead of Extraordinary Congress

The Extraordinary Regional Congress (Musdalub) of the Demokrat Party in West Nusa Tenggara (NTB), originally scheduled for 18 September 2026, has been postponed pending confirmation from the party's central board, likely to early October. The contest for the regional chairmanship has already warmed up, with former NTB Police Chief Hadi Gunawan securing official support from 10 district/city branch boards, alongside other figures such as former chairman Indra Jaya Usman. Candidates must secure minimum support from 20 per cent of voting rights holders, roughly three branch boards, to register officially.

Virza Logika Highlights the Importance of Comedians Frequenting the Stage

Comedian Virza Logika has emphasised that access to performance stages is crucial for budding comedians, particularly through the KPK's Open Mic 'Benar Benar Komika: Operasi Tangkap Tawa' comedy competition. The initiative invites young people across Indonesia to address corruption issues through stand-up comedy, with selected comedians progressing to a bootcamp and grand final with a total prize pool of 35 million rupiah.

House Member: Arrest of ATR/BPN Officials a Momentum to Eradicate the Land Mafia

A member of the House of Representatives' Commission III has urged the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) to use its recent sting operation against Ministry of Agrarian and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency (ATR/BPN) officials as a moment to dismantle the entire land mafia network. The KPK named eight suspects, including senior ministry officials and the president director of PT Summarecon Agung Tbk, over alleged bribery in building-use rights processing.

Taxi Overturns Before Tebet Toll Gate, Driver Suspected of Falling Asleep

A taxi overturned after hitting a roadside barrier just before the Tebet 2 toll gate in South Jakarta on Tuesday evening, with police suspecting the driver had nodded off at the wheel. No casualties or injuries were reported. Traffic police managed the flow of vehicles around the scene and coordinated with the Pancoran traffic accident unit.

Dekranasda Bekasi aims to create one international-class MSME per district

The National Crafts Council (Dekranasda) of Bekasi Regency, West Java, has committed to developing one internationally competitive micro, small and medium enterprise (MSME) in each of the regency's districts. The programme, set to be fully implemented from early 2027, will curate flagship products and upgrade their quality, branding and marketing for global markets.

ITS Expert Reveals Sea Conditions at Site of Virgo Transport 8 Sinking: Wave Height Reached 2 Metres

A marine environment expert from ITS Surabaya has revealed that waves reaching two metres in height likely destabilised KM Virgo Transport 8 when it sank near the Masalembu Islands. Southeast winds of 18-20 knots, gusting up to 30 knots, combined with adverse marine conditions may have contributed to the accident. The expert stressed that possible causes, including water ingress through the ramp door or engine failure, cannot be confirmed without further investigation.

Eight Suspects in Alleged Bribery and Gratuity Case at ATR/BPN Ministry Officially Detained by KPK

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has detained eight suspects, including senior Land and Spatial Planning Ministry officials and a Summarecon chief executive, over alleged bribery and gratuities. The case follows a sting operation in Jabodetabek that recovered roughly Rp106.3 billion in cash in multiple currencies. Investigators believe the payments relate to extending and converting land-use titles into freehold certificates.

China's Yaogan-50 (02) Satellite Breaks Up, 43 Debris Pieces Detected in Earth Orbit

China's Yaogan-50 (02) remote sensing satellite, launched in March 2026 aboard a Long March 6A rocket into a highly retrograde orbit some 952 km above Earth, has fragmented. The US Space Force tracked 43 pieces of debris between roughly 600 and 1,100 km altitude, raising concerns about long-lived orbital debris and collision risks. The cause of the break-up remains unknown, with possible explanations including propulsion or battery failure or a collision with another object.

Four Assailants of West Lombok KNPI Chairman Face Seven Years in Prison

Four men who assaulted Muhammad Taufik, chairman of the West Lombok branch of the National Committee of Indonesian Youth (KNPI), have been named suspects and face up to seven years in prison. The attack, which reportedly stemmed from a bumping incident at Mataram Mall, left the victim with head and other bodily injuries. One suspect is a repeat offender with a prior conviction for possession of homemade firearms.

This President Will Allow Police to Enter Campuses When Demonstrations Turn Violent

Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella has announced that police may enter university grounds in cases of violence, vandalism, terrorism or serious threats to public order. The policy has reignited a long-standing debate in Colombia over the limits of university autonomy, which is enshrined in the country's constitution. The government insists the policy still respects peaceful demonstrations conducted within the law.

The Dialogue Between Rasulullah SAW and His Companions: A Strong Divider Between Truth and Falsehood After the Battle of Uhud

The Secretary-General of the World Union of Muslim Scholars, Sheikh Ali Muhammad ash-Shallabi, has described the dialogue between Abu Sufyan, Rasulullah SAW and his Companions following the Battle of Uhud as a defining episode in the struggle between truth and falsehood. The episode, preserved in the hadith of al-Bara, demonstrates the steadfastness and moral dignity of the Muslims, and shows that victory depends not merely on material strength but on faith, conviction and firmness of heart.

Motorcyclist Dies After Being Struck by Truck in Priok, Motorbike Dragged and Set Ablaze

A motorcyclist with the initials MJ died at the scene after colliding with a trailer truck on Jalan Raya Pelabuhan Tanjung Priok, North Jakarta. The motorbike was dragged roughly ten metres under the trailer, sparking a fire that engulfed both vehicles, which firefighters extinguished within fifteen minutes.

Basarnas explains why dive team has not yet been deployed in search for missing journalist

The Banten Search and Rescue Office has explained that underwater diving operations to find a group of journalists and the crew of the fast vessel Arupadatu I, missing in the Sunda Strait, Pandeglang, can only proceed once the exact coordinates of the target are confirmed. SAR Mission Coordinator Al Amrad stressed that personnel safety is also a key consideration, adding that sea readers and drones have been deployed near Anak Krakatau to verify reports of findings, though without results so far.

Sespimti Trainees Trial X-Fire for Forest and Land Fire Handling in East Kalimantan

Trainee officers of the 36th Sespimti Polri course trialled the X-Fire extinguishing agent, alongside Brimob personnel, to combat forest and land fires in East Kalimantan. The trial formed part of domestic work practice aimed at accelerating firefighting, reducing re-ignition risk, and exploring technology-based solutions to protect the Nusantara Capital region.

Heirs of Virgo Transport 8 Crew Member Receive Rp70 Million Compensation

State-owned insurer PT Jasa Raharja has disbursed Rp70 million in compensation to the family of Nurul Rian Hidayat, a crew member of KM Virgo Transport 8 from Pamekasan, East Java, who died in the ferry accident. The payout comprises a Rp50 million statutory payment plus Rp20 million in additional cover from subsidiary PT Jasaraharja Putera, handed over by chief executive Muhammad Awaluddin in Banjarmasin after heir verification.

VP Gibran's Backing of New Finance Minister Suahasil Bolsters Market Confidence, Analyst Says

Political analyst Boni Hargens said Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka's endorsement of new Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara has reinforced positive market sentiment following the cabinet reshuffle. He noted that the bond market and rupiah remained relatively stable after the announcement, with foreign investor confidence projected to rise under a fiscally prudent approach. Suahasil, previously Deputy Finance Minister, was inaugurated on 14 September 2026 as President Prabowo's third finance minister, succeeding Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa.

Pelindo: Trisakti Port Operates Normally Amid SAR Operation for KM Virgo

PT Pelabuhan Indonesia (Pelindo) has confirmed that operations at Trisakti Port in Banjarmasin remain normal whilst supporting search and rescue efforts following the KM Virgo Transport 8 accident. Several berths have been cleared specifically for victim evacuation, with an integrated post commanded by Basarnas established alongside police, medical and antemortem facilities. Port management stressed that maintaining operations is essential to protecting South Kalimantan's economy during the ongoing response.

Sardjito Hospital Switches to Natural Gas, Achieving 75 Per Cent Efficiency

RSUP Dr. Sardjito in Yogyakarta has shifted from biosolar to natural gas supplied by PT Perusahaan Gas Negara (PGN) for its steam boilers and kitchen operations. The hospital previously consumed around 1,000 litres of biosolar per day, but the switch has delivered average efficiency gains of about 75 per cent, alongside lower carbon monoxide emissions. The move also supports the government's programme on natural gas utilisation.

National Police Medical Centre asks families to report data of Virgo ship victims

The Indonesian National Police Medical and Health Centre (Pusdokkes Polri) has urged families of the Virgo Transport 8 ferry victims to provide identifying data to assist the identification of bodies recovered by the joint SAR team. Of the 243 passengers and crew, 114 have been found so far — 108 survivors and six dead — leaving 129 still missing. Authorities warn that bodies recovered in coming days may become harder to identify, making ante-mortem and DNA data from next of kin essential.

KPK says Summarecon HGB case originated from a land dispute

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has revealed that the alleged bribery case surrounding the processing of building rights titles (HGB) for PT Summarecon Agung in Bogor Regency began as a land dispute between the company and several heirs. An intermediary allegedly negotiated a Rp1.5 billion payment to lift a block on the certificates, leading to eight suspects being named, including land officials and Summarecon's president director. The suspects are believed to include confidants of Agrarian Affairs Minister Nusron Wahid.

Indodana Finance Transforms Risk and Compliance Governance into Intelligent GRC

PT Indodana Multi Finance has transformed its Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) function from reactive compliance into an 'Intelligent GRC' business enabler, reporting rapid yet healthy growth with maintained portfolio quality and NPF levels. The company secured two accolades at the TOP GRC Awards 2026, including a four-star award and The Most Committed GRC Leader 2026 for Director Iwan Dewanto.

Jakarta Governor Honored as Capital Chosen to Host Ye Concert

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo said the capital is honoured to host Ye's concert on October 24, 2026, at Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium, noting strong international interest with Australia accounting for the largest share of overseas ticket buyers. The city administration is coordinating preparations, including traffic and safety management, as the concert coincides with the Jakarta Running Festival expected to draw 35,000 participants.

Police uncover syndicate, some 500 fake driving licences circulating in Riau

Siak Police in Riau have dismantled a cross-regional forged driving licence syndicate, arresting eight suspects and finding roughly 500 counterfeit licences distributed across the province. The syndicate, operational since June 2026, offered licences via WhatsApp and Facebook at prices from Rp550,000 to Rp1.7 million, and suspects face up to six years in prison under the new Criminal Code.

UMJ Launches I-CHIP to Advance Evidence-Based Health Policy

Universitas Muhammadiyah Jakarta launched its I-CHIP centre, aimed at bridging the gap between health policy and research in Indonesia. Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin highlighted the Free Health Check programme, which has reached around 280 million people, while Education Minister Abdul Mu'ti and BRIN chief Arif Satria stressed transdisciplinary collaboration to support national health sovereignty.

'Silk Road Club' Launched in Indonesia as China Signals Deeper People-to-People Ties

The Indonesia Friends of Silk Road Club (IFSRC) has been officially launched in Jakarta as a platform to strengthen people-to-people exchanges between Indonesia and China. China's Chargé d'Affaires Zhou Kan welcomed the initiative, linking it to Xi Jinping's Belt and Road Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative.

Fuel Transport Aircraft Carrying 3,700 Litres Skids in Papua, Mulia Airport Temporarily Closed

An Aman Air aircraft carrying around 3,700 litres of diesel skidded off the runway upon landing at Mulia Airport in Puncak Jaya Regency, Central Papua, though the pilot survived and no casualties were reported. The airport has been temporarily closed pending an investigation by the National Transportation Safety Committee (KNKT). Security has been tightened around the site amid concerns over fuel leaking from the damaged aircraft.

Saudi Arabia affirms no compromise on national security

Saudi Arabia has declared its security, territorial integrity and defensive capability to be firm principles that cannot be compromised, following a cabinet meeting chaired by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The statement comes amid escalating Houthi attacks from Yemen, including a strike that wounded 13 civilians in the kingdom's south-west.

From KMIPN 2019 Champion to E-Government Judge in 2026: The Journey of Muhajirin Saad Langsa

Muhajirin Saad Langsa, chair of ICM Network and director of PT Inovasi Cipta Multikarya, has been appointed a judge for the E-Government category at KMIPN VIII 2026. Seven years after winning the Game Development category as a student in 2019, he now researches data centre infrastructure policy as a foundation for AI development in Indonesia from a digital sovereignty perspective.

Hundreds of facilities at US military bases reportedly damaged by Iran

A Lead Inspector General report states that Iranian strikes damaged or destroyed hundreds of buildings and structures at American military bases across the Middle East during Operation Epic Fury. The Pentagon has also acknowledged that dozens of US aircraft were destroyed or damaged, with the conflict between Washington and Tehran remaining unresolved.

Captain of KM Virgo 8 Found Alive, Now Undergoing Questioning

The captain of the capsized KM Virgo Transport 8 has been found alive and is being questioned over the sinking in the Java Sea, according to Deputy Transport Minister Suntana. Of the 243 people aboard, 114 have been accounted for, with 108 survivors and six dead, while 129 remain missing.

Complete Guide to Lebak Bulus Park and Ride: Location, Tariffs, and Tips

The Lebak Bulus Park and Ride facility supports the Jakarta MRT ecosystem, allowing commuters from southern areas such as South Tangerang to leave their vehicles and continue their journey into the city centre by train. The facility has been revitalised with cashless payment and improved supporting infrastructure, offering a cost-effective alternative to driving through Jakarta's notorious congestion.

Wife of KM Virgo Victim Confused as Husband Holds Ticket but Is Absent from Passenger Manifest

The wife of a passenger aboard KMP Virgo Transport 8 has expressed confusion after her husband's name failed to appear on the ship's passenger manifest, despite him holding a valid ticket. She last communicated with him on Saturday before the vessel departed. She is still awaiting news and hopes he will be found alive.

With Over 2,000 New Cases, Fiji Declares HIV a National Crisis

Fiji has officially declared the spread of HIV a national crisis after recording 2,016 new cases last year, up from 1,583 in 2024. Health Minister Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu said an estimated one in 60 adults now lives with HIV, prompting the government to form a special five-minister committee and roll out sweeping interventions including needle exchange programmes and expanded access to PrEP.

Six Victims Killed in Virgo Transport 8 Sinking Identified — Names and Origins

The Disaster Victim Identification team of South Kalimantan Regional Police has identified all six bodies recovered from the sinking of the Virgo Transport 8 in the Java Sea. Basarnas confirmed 114 people have been found — 108 survivors and six dead — leaving 129 of the 243 passengers still missing.

Labour unions demand no additional contribution costs in the JKN Presidential Regulation

Labour unions have urged the government not to include additional contribution costs for participants in the draft Presidential Regulation on National Health Insurance (JKN). The National Workers' Union (SPN) raised concerns over potential declines in service quality and a lack of consultation, whilst the National Social Security Council (DJSN) assured stakeholders their input would be considered.

Deputy Speaker of the MPR Receives Ninth Constitutional Law Conference Delegation, Urges Strengthening of Democracy and the Rule of Law

Deputy Speaker of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR RI) Lestari Moerdijat received a delegation from the Ninth National Constitutional Law Conference (KNHTN IX), which submitted recommendations on democracy and Indonesia's constitutional system. The conference, organised by the Centre for Constitutional Studies at Andalas University, put forward proposals covering state institutions, economic justice, judicial independence, elections and political party reform. Lestari also invited academics and the public to contribute to deliberations on the State Policy Outline (PPHN).

Solok Radjo Cooperative in West Sumatra becomes reference for Agriculture Ministry's Upland programme

The Ministry of Agriculture has selected the Solok Radjo Cooperative in Solok Regency, West Sumatra, as a reference site for its Upland programme, which strengthens farmer institutions in highland areas. The cooperative, managed by young people, has built a complete coffee value chain from cultivation to export and diversified into tourism, food processing and retail. Nine cooperatives from three regencies participated in the study visit to learn from its management model.

Police Officer Slashed During Methamphetamine Dealer Raid in Sumbawa, Two People Shot

An officer from the NTB Regional Police Narcotics Directorate was slashed with machetes while arresting a suspected methamphetamine dealer in Tengah Village, Utan District, Sumbawa. Officers returned fire, shooting two residents, while the suspect's family allegedly provoked the crowd and distributed machetes during the raid. No arrests were made, though 23.70 grams of methamphetamine were seized as evidence.

PHR signs unconventional oil and gas production sharing contract in Rokan Working Area

PT Pertamina Hulu Rokan (PHR), through its subsidiary PT Pertamina Hulu Energi Rokan Nonkonvensional, has signed a production sharing contract for unconventional oil and gas in the Rokan Working Area. The North Aman structure is estimated to hold 724 million barrels of oil equivalent in recoverable resources, supported by a new Ministerial Decree providing regulatory and fiscal certainty.

Japan Deploys JS Kunisaki and Three CH-47 Helicopters to Fight Forest Fires in West Kalimantan

Indonesian Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin inspected the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force vessel JS Kunisaki and three CH-47 Chinook helicopters deployed to Mempawah, West Kalimantan, to support forest and land fire suppression operations. Sjafrie praised Japan's swift response, coordinating directly with Japanese Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi, and said the assets would be integrated into the TNI task force alongside BNPB. The assistance reflects the Indonesia-Japan Defence Cooperation Agreement, with operations planned to shift southwards to Ketapang Regency.

Government Food Reserve Distribution Reaches 66%, Bandung City Government Ensures 143,000 Families Receive Food Aid

The Bandung City Government, through its Food Security and Agriculture Agency, is distributing government food reserves (CPP) for the July–September 2026 period to 143,000 beneficiary families across 30 districts. As of 13 September 2026, distribution had reached 66.43%, with around 48,000 recipients still awaiting delivery. The programme serves both social protection and food price stability purposes.

Political Tensions Rise as Two Georgian Finance Ministry Officials Resign

Two senior officials at Georgia's Finance Ministry, the heads of the Revenue Service and Investigation Service, abruptly resigned over the weekend, prompting rapid government reshuffle appointments. The simultaneous departures have fuelled speculation of links to recent political changes involving Mamuka Mdinaradze, a senior ruling party figure who recently quit politics.

Prosecutors Target Those Who Enjoyed Corrupt Funds of Klungah LPD Chairman in Karangasem

The chairman of the Klungah customary village credit institution (LPD) in Sidemen, Karangasem, identified as IWD (57), has been named a corruption suspect with state losses estimated at Rp 2.7 billion. Karangasem prosecutors are now questioning those suspected of benefiting from or being involved in the misappropriated funds, and further suspects may follow.

Recommended interventions for children with specific learning disorders

Paediatric specialist dr. Farid Agung Rahmadi has outlined structured interventions to help children with specific learning disorders such as dyslexia achieve learning targets at school. Speaking at an Indonesian Paediatric Society (IDAI) webinar, he stressed that while these disorders are permanent, children can develop coping strategies with support from parents, teachers and health professionals.

SCG Promotes Inclusive Green Transition Across ASEAN

SCG urged ASEAN nations to accelerate an inclusive green transition, framing geopolitical challenges, energy volatility and climate risks as opportunities to strengthen regional resilience and competitiveness. The call was made at the ESG Symposium 2026 in Bangkok, which covered energy transition, just transition and climate adaptation, with Indonesian government representatives taking part and SCG showcasing local initiatives in Indonesia.

Immigration Director General on Foreign National Who Hunted Turtles: Must Be Punished Proportionately

The Directorate General of Immigration has vowed to impose proportionate sanctions on a Chinese national, WS, who was apprehended at Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport in Makassar while allegedly attempting to flee after hunting protected sea turtles in the waters of Piaynemo, Raja Ampat, West Papua. Immigration authorities coordinated with local government to track the suspect through the passenger profiling system before detaining him for further investigation in Sorong.

Search area for missing journalists follows Sunda Strait current modelling

The Indonesian Navy has narrowed the search area for a missing speedboat carrying eight passengers in the Sunda Strait, Pandeglang, from 4,586 to 3,962 nautical miles based on hydro-oceanographic current modelling by Basarnas and Pushidrosal. Day eight of the joint SAR operation deployed 20 main vessels across six sectors spanning the waters around Mount Anak Krakatau, Banten, Lampung and Bengkulu. A close inspection of Rakata and Sertung islands to verify a reported sighting of the Arupadhatu 1 speedboat yielded no results.

Expert Warns of Dehydration Risks and Prevention Tips During the Dry Season

A clinical nutrition specialist from MMC Hospital has cautioned the public about the heightened risk of dehydration as Indonesia faces a longer, drier dry season driven by the El Nino phenomenon. The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has issued an early warning, noting that the current dry season is expected to be drier and more prolonged, with El Nino only subsiding in early 2027.

Economist: Government Must Push Reinvestment to Strengthen the Rupiah

Enrico Tanuwidjaja of UOB ASEAN Economists has urged the Indonesian government to provide incentives ensuring existing investors stay and reinvest, arguing this is crucial to sustaining foreign capital inflows and strengthening the Rupiah. He noted around US$9 billion flows out annually in payments and dividends, which effective reinvestment policies could redirect back into the domestic economy.

Ministry of Energy strengthens technical testing and dialogue with automotive industry to oversee B50

Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources is intensifying technical testing of the B50 biodiesel mandate and holding continuous dialogue with the automotive industry to address any vehicle-related issues. The fuel has reached roughly 94 percent of petrol stations nationwide, with the government setting 30 September 2026 as the deadline for full implementation. The programme is projected to save up to Rp170 trillion in foreign exchange by reducing diesel imports.

Third Day of Search Operation, 129 Victims of the Virgo Still Missing

On the third day of the SAR operation, 129 people from KM Virgo Transport 8 remain missing with no additional survivors found since the first day. Basarnas chief Marshal Mohammad Syafii said poor weather continues to prevent underwater search teams from being deployed. The vessel lost contact in the Java Sea on Sunday whilst sailing from Surabaya to Banjarmasin with 243 people on board, of whom 114 have so far been rescued.

DJKI: three flagship products to drive GI Tourism development in Dieng

Indonesia's Directorate General of Intellectual Property (DJKI) has selected Dieng as a pilot project for Geographical Indication (GI) Tourism, centred on its protected arabica coffee, carica and purwaceng products. The initiative aims to shift tourism from mere sightseeing towards immersive experiences involving producers, production processes and regional reputation. DJKI stresses that protecting geographical indications safeguards the link between a product's quality and its place of origin.

Air Quality Deteriorates Due to Forest and Land Fires, Public Protection Strengthened

Forest and land fires are not only causing fire risks but also degrading air quality through smoke and particulate exposure, threatening public health in affected regions. PT Pupuk Kalimantan Timur, working with the Ministry of Environment, has distributed 76,400 face masks to affected communities in Sumatra, South Kalimantan and West Kalimantan. The company has also supported firefighting operations in Bontang with round-the-clock water refill points and additional supplies.

Indonesia boosts wildfire containment beyond priority provinces

Indonesia's disaster mitigation agency (BNPB) is expanding forest and land fire containment efforts beyond the six priority provinces of Riau, Jambi, South Sumatra, West, South and Central Kalimantan. Operations now cover high-risk areas such as Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park and multiple other regions, with water-bombing helicopters deployed and logistics mobilisation accelerated. The government is also urging enforcement of Presidential Instruction No. 11/2026, which mandates stricter action against land clearing by burning, amid projections of dense haze by the BMKG.

Crowd Storms West Sumba Police Headquarters and Burns Vehicle After Livestock Thief Shot Dead

A mob stormed the West Sumba Police headquarters in East Nusa Tenggara and burned a police service vehicle after officers shot dead a suspected livestock thief. Police described the shooting as a measured response to theft and violence, and said the situation remained tense with security operations under way.

DPD Member: 13 Acehnese Fishermen Arrested by Thai Authorities Released

Thirteen fishermen from East Aceh Regency have been released by Thai authorities after serving sentences since March 2026 for alleged illegal fishing, and are now awaiting repatriation. DPD member Sudirman Haji Uma said the Indonesian Consulate General in Songkhla confirmed the release, with the exact return date still being coordinated with Phuket Immigration. The Aceh government will support their journey home via Soekarno-Hatta International Airport.

Supporting Food Self-Sufficiency, PTPN Group and PT KUAB Develop National Soybean Ecosystem

President's Special Envoy Hashim S. Djojohadikusumo has welcomed a partnership between state plantation holding PTPN III (Persero) and PT KUAB to develop Indonesia's national soybean industry. The collaboration, marked by a memorandum of understanding covering land use and upstream-to-downstream soybean cultivation, aims to achieve soybean self-sufficiency within three to four years.

The Lioness of Marunda: A Betawi Female Warrior Who Terrorised the Dutch Company

The article recounts the folklore of Mirah, a Betawi woman silat master from Marunda known as 'the lioness of Marunda', who fought Dutch colonial forces during the Indonesian revolution against NICA. It highlights the deep-rooted tradition of 'maen pukulan' (Betawi pencak silat) among Betawi women, alongside other female fighters such as Nyi Mas Melati of Tangerang. The account draws on the book 'Beksi Maen Pukulan Khas Betawi' by Yahya Andi Saputra and H Irwan Syafi'ie.

Customs Foils Smuggling of 330 Kg of Gold Up to September 2026 Through Various Methods

Indonesia's Directorate General of Customs and Excise has thwarted gold smuggling totalling around 330 kilogrammes from January to 14 September 2026. The most recent operations in early September recovered some 29 kg of gold worth Rp73.3 billion across four international airports, saving an estimated Rp8.5 billion in potential state revenue losses.

Tartil Al-Quran in Sign Language by Deaf Participants Debuts at 31st National MTQ

The 31st National Musabaqah Tilawatil Quran (MTQ) in Semarang, Central Java, featured sign-language Quran recitation by deaf participants for the first time as an exhibition event. Unlike conventional MTQ branches that emphasise vocal beauty, this discipline centres on hand gestures, fingers and palm positions to convey the verses. Participants from provinces including East Java and Banten said the spirit of the Quran mattered more than winning.

Ministry of Social Affairs finds four million new beneficiary families, prepares digitalisation of social assistance

The Ministry of Social Affairs has identified more than four million new beneficiary families (KPM) through updates to social assistance data over the past two years. Minister Saifullah Yusuf said the findings reflect improving data updating processes, while the ministry prepares biometric facial recognition to ensure aid reaches the correct recipients.

BMKG Detects 4,028 Hotspots in Sumatra, South Sumatra Leads with 2,994

The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) detected 4,028 hotspots across Sumatra as of Tuesday afternoon, with South Sumatra accounting for 2,994 of them. The resulting haze has reduced visibility in parts of Riau to as little as 2.5 kilometres, with authorities noting that smoke is also being blown in from fires south of the province.

Bad News for the World! Panama Canal Congestion Brings Serious Consequences

A worsening drought driven by El Niño has forced the Panama Canal to further restrict vessel transits, with daily passages set to fall to 29.5 from October, down 18% from August. The canal handles around 5% of global maritime trade and nearly 40% of US container traffic, meaning the disruption could worsen supply chain costs worldwide. With El Niño forecast to peak at its strongest in four decades, further tightening remains possible.

Central Jakarta strengthens disaster preparedness among tourism businesses

Some 150 tourism businesses in Central Jakarta attended technical training on disaster resilience and risk management organised by the Central Jakarta Tourism and Creative Economy Sub-department. Head of the sub-department Shinta Nindyawati stressed that disaster risk management requires active participation from business operators, not just government. The training covered preparedness, risk communication, mitigation strategies and evacuation procedures to safeguard lives and business continuity.

Sidoarjo Social Media Meetup brings together 100 digital creators

Some 100 social media practitioners, content creators and media workers took part in the Sidoarjo Social Media Meetup 2026, aimed at strengthening networking and collaboration among creative communities in Sidoarjo Raya, East Java. The event was organised in partnership with RSI Siti Hajar Sidoarjo and Taman Safari Indonesia Prigen, in support of the International Animal Photo Video Competition (IAPVC) Roadshow Prigen 2026.

KAI to prepare shuttle service from Kudus to railway stations in Semarang

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) Daop 4 Semarang plans to launch a regular shuttle service connecting Kudus to railway stations in Semarang, since the rail line in Kudus no longer exists. The shuttle is expected to begin operating next year, pending permits, and KAI will also open a ticketing office in Kudus offering one-stop booking. The Kudus Regency head has welcomed the initiative.

DJSN: Gotong royong principle supports JKN membership for informal workers

The National Social Security Council (DJSN) has assured that informal workers remain covered by the National Health Insurance (JKN) scheme, with financing based on mutual assistance and the government's fiscal capacity. Around 96.8 million of the roughly 200 million JKN participants currently receive premium subsidies (PBI), a figure that depends on state finances and data accuracy. The Health Ministry is also preparing a shift from INA-CBGs to the IDRG payment system as part of healthcare reform.

Hotels in Senggigi Begin Receiving Guests Arriving for the Mandalika MotoGP

Hotels in Senggigi, West Lombok, have started receiving tourists booking specifically to watch the Mandalika MotoGP, scheduled for 9–11 October 2026. According to the Senggigi Association Hotel chairman, I Ketut Murta Jaya Kusuma, the event is a key tourist draw that sustains hotel occupancy after the high season ends, with current occupancy at around 80–90%.

BPH Migas partners with the KPK to prevent gratification in the oil and gas downstream sector

BPH Migas has teamed up with the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) to strengthen the prevention of gratuities within Indonesia's oil and gas downstream sector. Head of BPH Migas Wahyudi Anas said the initiative forms part of wider efforts to safeguard transparency, accountability and compliance in the regulator's duties, given its intensive interactions with business entities.

Kanye West Concert in Jakarta on 24 October, Jakarta Provincial Government Prepares Tight Security

The Jakarta Provincial Government has pledged full support for the Ye Live in Jakarta 2026 concert at Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium, with Governor Pramono Anung describing it as a crucial moment to strengthen Jakarta's position as a global music tourism destination. Jakarta is the only city in Southeast Asia and Oceania selected for the tour, with more than 15,000 foreign tourists expected, generating significant benefits for the local economy.

DPR: Meeting with Party Chairmen on Election Bill Has Already Taken Place

Deputy Chair of the House Commission II Dede Yusuf revealed that political party leaders have met to discuss the bill amending the 2017 General Election Law, with the parliamentary threshold among the key points under negotiation. Proposed thresholds are reportedly between 4 and 5 per cent, a figure he considers reasonable by international standards. He urged the public to await the outcome of the political lobbying before formal deliberation begins in Commission II.

Hundreds of SMAN 37 Students Learn History First-hand at the Presidential Palace

A total of 239 students from SMA Negeri 37 Jakarta visited the Presidential Palace complex under the Palace for Schoolchildren Programme, learning about Indonesian history and the functions of the presidency. The initiative by the Ministry of State Secretariat aims to give young people direct exposure to the seat of government and foster national pride.

Customs foils gold smuggling at four Indonesian airports

Indonesian Customs seized roughly 29 kilograms of smuggled gold between 5 and 14 September at four international airports — Kualanamu, Soekarno-Hatta, I Gusti Ngurah Rai, and Sam Ratulangi — preventing an estimated Rp8.5 billion in state revenue losses. Those detained were mainly Chinese and Indian nationals attempting to carry gold to destinations such as Hong Kong, Bangkok, Singapore, and Guangzhou, using methods including concealment in electronics, duct-taped baggage, and body-strapping. Investigations will proceed in coordination with the police and the Attorney General's Office.

Fiji declares HIV a national crisis as cases continue to surge

Fiji has designated HIV a national crisis after recording 2,016 new cases last year, up from 1,583 in 2024. Health Minister Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu said an estimated one in 60 adults lives with HIV, prompting the government to introduce needle and syringe programmes and expand testing, treatment and prevention access.

ANTARA strengthens journalism competencies and ethics among UNS student press

Perum LKBN ANTARA held journalism training for six student press organisations at Universitas Sebelas Marest (UNS) in Surakarta as part of its corporate social responsibility programme. The initiative, previously run at universities in Pontianak, Purwokerto and Kendari, aims to improve student media content quality whilst upholding journalistic ethics and legal rules. UNS's Faculty of Social and Political Sciences welcomed the collaboration and expressed openness to future strategic partnerships.

Innovation and Self-Sufficiency at Muntok Prison: Clinic Facilities and Chicken Egg Harvest

Ade Agustina, head of the Bangka Belitung regional office of the Ministry of Immigration and Correctional Services, inspected the accredited clinic at Muntok Class IIB Prison and led a harvest of 304 eggs from its layer hen farm. The initiatives are part of inmate self-reliance programmes supporting the President's Asta Cita and the minister's 15 acceleration programmes, particularly national food resilience.

Pertamina Strengthens Energy Security Through Portfolio Integration and LNG Infrastructure

PT Pertamina (Persero) is reinforcing national energy security by building a flexible, integrated LNG portfolio that combines domestic and global supply sources, supported by LNG and gas infrastructure across Indonesia. The strategy was a key focus of Pertamina's presence at Gastech 2026 in Bangkok, where it sought to expand connections with global energy players and strengthen its LNG business amid a shifting energy landscape.

Blackchin Tilapia Sparks Major Disaster, Neighbouring Country of Indonesia Declares Emergency

Thailand's Central Administrative Court has ordered the Fisheries Department to eradicate the invasive blackchin tilapia and instructed the Interior Ministry to declare Samut Songkhram province a disaster emergency zone. The ruling allows rapid budget allocation to compensate affected residents, with around 1,000 farmers pursuing a separate civil claim exceeding 2 billion baht.

Four Nusron Associates Implicated as KPK Uncovers Details and Money Trail in HGB Case

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has traced large sums of money, including Rp8 billion found in nine red briefcases, in its investigation into an alleged bribery case surrounding building use rights (HGB) in Bogor Regency, West Java. Eight suspects have been named, four of whom are alleged associates of ATR/BPN Minister Nusron Wahid. The case centres on Summarecon's attempts to extend or convert HGB titles into freehold certificates (SHM) on disputed land.

Patra Jasa supports NTT earthquake victims through humanitarian action

PT Patra Jasa, a Pertamina subsidiary, has provided educational support and humanitarian aid to communities affected by the earthquake in Flores, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT). Assistance included classroom equipment for a PAUD early childhood centre on Mules Island, staff donations, and relief distribution in collaboration with BAZMA Pertamina. The company also deployed staff as volunteers on the ground.

Kuningan Student Beaten Until He Needed 30 Stitches, Regent Dian: Not Juvenile Delinquency But a Crime

A ninth-grade student in Kuningan Regency, Muhammad Nur Ramadhani, suffered serious head injuries requiring surgery and around 30 stitches after being assaulted at the Balong Dalem tourist site. Regent Dian Rachmat Yanuar visited the victim and insisted the case must be treated as a criminal matter rather than juvenile delinquency, urging that it not end in mediation or an informal family settlement.

East Lombok District Prosecutor's Office Raids Kotaraja Village Office

The East Lombok District Prosecutor's Office has searched the Kotaraja Village Office in Sikur Sub-district as part of an investigation into alleged corruption in the management of village funds for the 2024-2025 budget years. The case stems from an East Lombok Inspectorate audit that found around Rp 1.5 billion in physical and non-physical projects that could not be accounted for. The Inspectorate referred the matter to prosecutors after the village government failed to follow up on the findings within 60 days.

Pertamina Strengthens Energy Security with LNG Portfolio

Pertamina is bolstering Indonesia's national energy security through a flexible and integrated LNG portfolio, combining domestic and global supply sources backed by gas infrastructure across the archipelago. The strategy, showcased at Gastech 2026 in Bangkok, positions facilities such as Perta Arun Gas in Aceh as potential regional LNG hubs as Indonesia faces rising domestic demand.

UOB economist urges stronger reinvestment drive to help safeguard rupiah stability

Enrico Tanuwidjaja, ASEAN Economist at UOB, has called on the government to ensure investors already in the domestic market remain and reinvest, in order to sustain foreign capital inflows and strengthen the rupiah. He noted that around US$9 billion returns to origin countries in payments and dividends, which could become inward capital flows with the right reinvestment policies. UOB Indonesia's Head of Corporate Banking, Edwin Kadir, added that stimulus for reinvestment is needed to give investors confidence in domestic growth prospects.

Bamsoet: Legal Certainty Must Be the Main Foundation of National Strategic Projects

Golkar MP Bambang Soesatyo has stressed that legal certainty must underpin the implementation of Indonesia's National Strategic Projects, particularly public-private partnership (KPBU) schemes involving massive investment. With 110 unfinished projects worth around Rp3,105.8 trillion, he warned that ambiguity over official authority could deter decision-making and delay development.

Iranian Mythology Mural Threatens US Troops Will Sink in the Persian Gulf

Iran has unveiled a new state-sponsored mural in Tehran's Islamic Revolution Square depicting a legendary Persian hero striking a US aircraft carrier, warning that the 'Satanic army' will be sunk in the Persian Gulf. The provocative messaging coincides with the release of a Pentagon Inspector General report confirming damage to hundreds of US buildings and structures across the Middle East from Iranian strikes. President Donald Trump insists the US is producing elite weaponry at record levels and denies any munitions shortages.

Pemda Biak Dorong UMKM Naik Kelas lewat OSS

Pemerintah Kabupaten Biak Numfor menggelar bimbingan teknis untuk meningkatkan kualitas produk UMKM dan mendampingi pengajuan SP-IRT melalui sistem OSS RBA. Bupati Markus Oktovianus Mansnembra menegaskan UMKM sebagai pilar ekonomi daerah yang harus naik kelas dan berdaya saing. Pelatihan ini juga menyiapkan pelaku usaha menyambut Festival Biak Melanesia pada Oktober 2026.

Jadi Investor Jangkau Calon Mitra dari Berbagai Daerah Lewat IBOS Expo 2026

PT Jadi Investor Indonesia utilised its participation in The 2nd IBOS Expo 2026 to widen awareness of its franchise and investment partnership opportunities, reaching prospective partners from multiple regions. The company showcased seven brands, including Old Town White Coffee and Papa Ron'z Pizza, offering ready-to-run business systems complete with training, SOPs and operational support, with investment packages ranging from affordable to larger scales.

Basarnas Checks Viral Video of Suspected Capsized Vessel Near Anak Krakatau, Finds Nothing

Basarnas dispatched a SAR team to investigate a viral drone video allegedly showing an overturned vessel between Anak Krakatau and Sertung Island, linked to the disappearance of five journalists and three boat crew. The team deployed drones and small craft to within 500 metres of the volcano, but cross-checking yielded no findings. The search, now in its seventh day covering 3,962 square nautical miles across five sectors, continues.

Tourist Tragedy At Popular Bali Beach Calls Island's Safety Record Into Question

A 29-year-old Australian tourist died after falling from a cliff at Kelingking Beach in Nusa Penida, Bali, whilst attempting an independent path to the cliff's edge. The incident has renewed scrutiny of safety conditions at one of Bali's most visited attractions, where treacherous paths and repeated tourist deaths have prompted calls for improved infrastructure and safety measures.

Pelindo Jayapura: Cruise ships open opportunities for Papua's maritime tourism

PT Pelindo Regional 4 Jayapura says the arrival of international cruise ships at Jayapura Port creates opportunities for developing maritime tourism and delivers economic benefits to Papuan communities. The expedition vessel Island Sky, flying the Bahamian flag, recently called at the port carrying foreign tourists visiting destinations around Jayapura.

Fire Department: Truck vs motorcycle crash outside Priok Port triggers fire

A collision between a trailer truck and a motorcycle outside Post IX of Tanjung Priok Port in North Jakarta on Tuesday evening ignited a fire that engulfed both vehicles and killed the motorcyclist. Firefighters extinguished the blaze within six minutes, while police continue to investigate the incident and assess losses.

China's robots move from the stage to the production line

Chinese robots, once mainly exhibition attractions, are increasingly performing real work, supported by a new training industry and embodied-intelligence data services showcased at CIFTIS in Beijing. However, a wide gap remains, with fewer than 5 percent of the 23,000 humanoid robots delivered in H1 2026 working stably on production lines. Beijing is building an embodied-AI data economy, and firms such as Anyverse Dynamics have already signed a 500 million yuan deal deploying robots to a gigafactory in France.

British National Deported for Immigration Violations

A British national, identified by the initials AM, has been deported after the Cirebon Class I Immigration Office found he had violated Indonesian immigration regulations. AM had been living in Indramayu Regency but failed to meet the requirements for foreign nationals residing in Indonesia. Immigration authorities stressed that foreigners are welcome in the country provided they comply with prevailing laws.

Bogor Fire Brigade Evacuates Resident with Broken Leg After Fall Whilst Cleaning Air Conditioner

A 56-year-old man identified as NND fell and broke his leg whilst cleaning an air conditioner in Harapan Jaya Urban Village, Cibinong, Bogor Regency, West Java. The Bogor Regency fire brigade and PMI rescue teams carried out a careful evacuation, splinting the injured leg before lowering him to the ground floor. The victim was subsequently taken to Cibinong Regional General Hospital for treatment.

SOE Agency: Rp456 billion injection to continue LRT City project

Indonesia's SOE Agency (BP BUMN) said a Rp456 billion fund from Danantara will be used to continue construction of the 12 LRT City project sites developed by Adhi Karya subsidiary ADCP. Of some 5,400 units sold, around 2,400 have yet to be handed over to buyers, and BP BUMN head Dony Oskaria has ordered their completion without losses to consumers.

Chinese Car Brands Make Their Mark on the Indonesian Market, Here Is Toyota's Response

Toyota-Astra Motor has welcomed the growing presence of Chinese car brands in Indonesia's increasingly competitive automotive market, particularly in the electrified vehicle segment. Marketing Director Bansar Maduma said Toyota's sales have improved year-on-year and it remains the leader in electrification with a claimed 23% market share as of August 2026. He noted that Chinese entrants largely offer consumers additional choices rather than directly taking Toyota's customers.

Jakarta Administrative Court Backs Transparency on Revocation Decrees for Raja Ampat Mining Permits

Greenpeace Indonesia has welcomed a ruling by the Jakarta State Administrative Court (PTUN) rejecting an objection by the Ministry of Investment and Downstream Industry/BKPM, thereby upholding public access to the decrees revoking four nickel mining permits in Raja Ampat. The ruling reinforces an earlier Central Information Commission decision that the revocation documents and their implementation stages are open information. Greenpeace is urging the government to publish the decrees and ensure the companies are held accountable for restoring environmental damage.

SAR Team Finds Nothing After Upside-Down Boat Near Anak Krakatau Goes Viral

A viral drone video apparently showing an overturned vessel near Mount Anak Krakatau prompted a joint SAR team search, but the head of Basarnas Banten confirmed nothing was found. The footage, posted by content creator Andrea Ramadhan, was cross-checked within roughly 500 metres of the volcano's coast. The search continues for five journalists and crew missing since 7 September.

Jelambar fire victims receive assistance from the Vice Presidential Secretariat

Victims of a fire in Jelambar, West Jakarta, have received relief aid from the Secretariat of the Vice President of Indonesia, comprising staple food packages, school kits and blankets. The fire, which broke out in a densely populated neighbourhood, was extinguished by 85 personnel over three hours with no casualties reported. Local authorities expressed appreciation for the Vice President's attention to affected residents.

Commission II of the House: Party Leaders Have Met, 4-5% Parliamentary Threshold the Strongest Option

Deputy Chair of Commission II of the House of Representatives, Dede Yusuf, confirmed that party chairmen have met to discuss the Election Bill, with several options under consideration for the parliamentary threshold. He said a threshold of 4 to 5 percent is the strongest candidate, noting that 7 percent would be too high and that comparable figures are used in other countries. The remarks follow a meeting between Golkar and PKS at Golkar's central offices, where both parties discussed coalition support for the Prabowo-Gibran government.

Reassessing the Parliamentary Threshold in Indonesian Democracy

This opinion piece, written by the Deputy Chair of the MPR's Budgetary Body, questions proposals to raise Indonesia's parliamentary threshold, noting that the 4 percent threshold in the 2024 election left some 17.3 million valid votes, or 11.4 percent of the national total, unconverted into DPR seats. It cites the Constitutional Court's ruling 116/PUU-XXI/2023, which requires the threshold to be re-evaluated before the 2029 elections. The author argues any new figure must be grounded in transparent methodology rather than political bargaining, since sovereignty ultimately rests with the people.

Purbaya Reluctant to Return to Govt Post After Finance Minister Dismissal

Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa says he intends to retire from public office after President Prabowo Subianto abruptly dismissed him as Indonesian Finance Minister in a cabinet reshuffle on 14 September 2026, replacing him with his deputy Suahasil Nazara. He admitted he did not know the exact reason for his removal, though speculation points to his decision to rotate officials within the ministry, and expressed relief at stepping down.

Riau Islands Economy Grows 7.02 Per Cent, Bank Indonesia Highlights Need for Inclusive Benefits

The Riau Islands economy grew 7.02 per cent cumulatively in the first half of 2026, far outpacing the national rate of around 5.45 per cent, driven largely by a surge in investment and strong manufacturing activity. Bank Indonesia's provincial head, Rony Widijarto, said the next challenge is ensuring the growth becomes inclusive, warning that high figures alone do not guarantee benefits reach all layers of society. Key strategies include strengthening MSMEs, expanding QRIS digital payments, and boosting employment.

Yemen discusses crisis developments and resolution efforts with Tunisia

Yemen's Foreign Minister Afrah Al-Zouba held a phone conversation with Tunisian counterpart Mohamed Ali Nafti to discuss the latest developments in the Yemeni crisis and efforts to resolve it. Tunisia reaffirmed its solidarity with the Yemeni people and support for international and Arab efforts to end the violence and reach a comprehensive political settlement.

Wonderful Indonesia Gastronomy helps MSMEs promote products

The Ministry of Tourism's Wonderful Indonesia Gastronomy programme helps micro, small and medium enterprises promote local products to international markets. The 2026 edition, to be held in Yogyakarta and Solo from 26 September, follows a successful 2025 run that generated tens of billions of rupiah in media exposure, business opportunities and restaurant transactions. Officials hope gastronomy will become a main pillar of Indonesian tourism marketing.

BI Governor Installs New Head of Macroprudential Policy Department

Bank Indonesia Governor Destry Damayanti has installed Mal Isnaini S Meyyanti as Head of the Macroprudential Policy Department, replacing Solikin M Juhro who has become Deputy Governor. The appointment forms part of organisational strengthening to ensure continuity of BI's mandate in maintaining stability and supporting sustainable economic growth.

UN: At least 125,000 displaced by conflict in Yemen

The United Nations reports that at least 125,000 people have fled their homes since early September amid renewed fighting between Yemeni government forces and Houthi fighters. OCHA said 40 civilians have been killed in the escalation and urged all parties to protect civilians and allow unhindered humanitarian access. The Houthis have recently expanded control over Yemen's Red Sea coastline, including Mayyun Island near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.

Iranian Foreign Minister Visits China as Pentagon Reveals Cost of War

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is scheduled to visit China on 16 September for high-level talks amid escalating Middle East tensions. Beijing, a diplomatic ally of Tehran, continues to call for a ceasefire and negotiated resolution. Meanwhile, a Pentagon inspector general report estimated the cost of the US conflict with Iran at US$33.4 billion (around Rp514.3 trillion) as of 29 June.

Police Reveal Motive of Dozens of Teenagers Convoying with Bladed Weapons on Mataram Streets

Police in Mataram, West Nusa Tenggara, have revealed that a convoy of teenagers brandishing bladed weapons was prompted by a challenge from an unknown individual on social media claiming to be from the Karang Genteng area. Six teenagers have been named as suspects for weapons possession, while 16 others who joined the convoy were released to their families. Five of the suspects have been detained, with one spared custody for being under 14.

Pramono Proud Jakarta to Host YE Live Concert 2026 at GBK

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has expressed pride after the city was selected to host the 'YE Live in Jakarta 2026' international concert at the Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium on 24 October 2026. The provincial government has committed to preparing thoroughly, particularly managing traffic and crowds as the event coincides with the Jakarta Running Festival, which is expected to draw around 35,000 participants. Officials say the concert affirms Jakarta's standing as a world-class entertainment destination with economic benefits for residents.

To keep flames away from Nusantara capital's core zone, land patrols tightened

The Nusantara Capital Authority (OIKN) has intensified ground patrols and deployed firefighting personnel and equipment to prevent forest and land fires from reaching the capital's core government area. The fires at Bukit Tengkorak, some 20–30 kilometres from the KIPP, have been tackled with aerial water bombing and support from Manggala Agni, police and the military. East Kalimantan police have named 19 suspects in connection with 2,263 hectares of burned land.

Moment Pope Leo Celebrates His 71st Birthday at the Vatican

Pope Leo marked his 71st birthday at the Vatican Library, blowing out candles on a cake and inaugurating an exhibition on water entitled 'AQVA – Catastrophe and Wonder'. Born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago, he became the first American pope after being elected on 8 May 2025 to succeed the late Pope Francis.

Tens of Thousands of MotoGP Mandalika Tickets Sold, with Marc Marquez and Veda Ega as the Main Draws

More than half of the 145,000 tickets for the MotoGP Mandalika 2026, scheduled for 9-11 October, have already been sold. InJourney Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC) attributes the strong demand to Marc Marquez's anticipated title challenge and the participation of Indonesian riders Mario Aji and Veda Ega Pratama, with preparations now 80 per cent complete.

Pramono Surprised That Most Buyers of YE Concert Tickets in Jakarta Come from Australia

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo expressed pride that the capital will host the YE Live in Jakarta 2026 concert at the Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium on 24 October 2026, noting with surprise that the largest share of overseas ticket buyers came from Australia. The provincial government is coordinating logistics as the concert coincides with the Jakarta Running Festival, which will draw 35,000 participants. Officials frame the event as recognition of Jakarta's infrastructure and readiness as a world-scale entertainment destination.

Motorcyclist dies in collision with trailer truck in North Jakarta

A motorcyclist identified as MJ died at the scene after colliding with a trailer truck near Post 9 outside Tanjung Priok Port in North Jakarta on Tuesday evening. Both vehicles caught fire and were destroyed, with firefighters dispatching two engines and ten personnel to extinguish the blaze. Police are still investigating the cause of the accident.

Fire Brigade Combs Scene After Python That Preyed on Cats Goes Viral in Depok

A video of a python attacking a cat at Gema Pesona Estate in Sukmajaya, Depok, went viral on social media, with residents saying the snake has repeatedly preyed on cats in the housing estate. Depok's Fire and Rescue Service deployed officers to comb the area and urged residents to report incidents promptly rather than attempting capture themselves.

Motorcyclist dies after being run over by truck on Daan Mogot, West Jakarta

A motorcyclist identified as T died after losing control on a slippery stretch of Jalan Daan Mogot in Kalideres, West Jakarta, and being struck by a passing minibus. The victim suffered severe head injuries and died at the scene, with the body evacuated to Tangerang Regency Regional Hospital.

Waskita says resolving toll road agrarian conflicts requires government's role

State contractor PT Waskita Karya has told a parliamentary hearing on the Agrarian Reform Bill that land acquisition for toll roads falls under government authority, so the state must take the lead in resolving agrarian conflicts. Rudi Purnomo, a company director, noted that all 1,040 kilometres of toll roads Waskita has built over the past seven years remain owned by the Public Works Ministry, with the company holding only 45–50 year concessions.

HGB Fee Set at Rp2 Billion

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) alleges that a Rp2 billion fee was demanded to unblock and split land titles (HGB) for a private company in Bogor Regency, in a case implicating the Bogor Land Office head and an associate linked to the ATR/BPN Minister. A payment of Rp1.5 billion was allegedly handed over, of which Rp200 million reportedly went to the Land Office head. The case stems from a dispute over the company's extension and splitting of land-use titles into freehold certificates.

Mexican President Affirms Rejection of Foreign Interference in Internal Affairs

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has reiterated her government's refusal to tolerate foreign interference in domestic affairs, insisting that relations with the United States must be based on coordination rather than subordination. Citing a poll showing 91 per cent of Mexicans reject foreign intervention, she criticised certain circles in the US and right-wing media for promoting an interventionist agenda.

Meeting Bulgarian Deputy Prime Minister, Trade Minister Strengthens Trade and Investment Cooperation

Indonesia's Trade Minister Budi Santoso met Bulgaria's Deputy Prime Minister and Economy Minister Alexander Poulev in Jakarta to deepen bilateral trade and investment ties as diplomatic relations mark 70 years. Poulev positioned Bulgaria as a gateway for Indonesian firms into the EU market of 450 million people and backed the implementation of the Indonesia–EU CEPA in early 2027.

House Commission II reveals inter-party leaders' meeting has taken place to discuss Election Bill

Deputy Chairman of House Commission II Dede Yusuf confirmed that party leaders have met to discuss the bill amending Law No. 7 of 2017 on General Elections, focusing on the parliamentary threshold. Proposed figures of 4-5 per cent are seen as politically reasonable, while 7 per cent is considered too high. He noted Commission II is also weighing Constitutional Court rulings and the contentious separation of national and regional elections.

UMJ Launches I-CHIP, Arief Rosyid: A Commitment to Supporting Health Sovereignty

Universitas Muhammadiyah Jakarta (UMJ) officially launched the Indonesian Center for Health Evidence-Informed Policy (I-CHIP) at a grand launch and international seminar attended by senior government figures including the Ministers of Education and Health. The centre aims to bridge academia, researchers, government and health stakeholders in developing evidence-based health policy for Indonesia. Education Minister Abdul Mu'ti highlighted mental health among young people as a key area for the new centre's work.

Labour Coalition to Hold Dialogue with DPR Tomorrow on the Employment Protection Bill

The Great Coalition of Indonesian Workers' Struggle (KBPBI) has been invited by the DPR's Commission IX working committee to discuss the Employment Protection Bill on 16 September 2026. Workers' leaders say they will press for changes to redundancy procedures and wage council provisions, warning of a mass protest involving some 50,000 motorcyclists on Jalan MH Thamrin on 24 September if their demands are not met by 22 September.

Let PLN Rent Out the Grid It Already Owns

Following the February 2026 Strait of Hormuz disruption, which pushed Indonesia's crude price from US$102.26 to US$117.31 a barrel and added roughly Rp 10.3 trillion in state spending per dollar above the budget assumption, the author argues that solar energy offers the structural fix to Indonesia's fossil fuel dependence. At a Sept. 8, 2026 hearing, Commission XII chair Bambang Patijaya proposed a network lease model in which PLN remains the grid's owner while renting transmission capacity to renewable developers, rather than imposing full open access. The author contends this arrangement could unlock stalled private investment—IEEFA estimates US$146 billion is needed by 2030—while protecting PLN's revenue, workforce interests, and constitutional constraints.

PDIP Refuses to Deliberate NTB's Amended 2026 Regional Budget

Four PDIP legislators in NTB's regional parliament withdrew from deliberations on the amended 2026 provincial budget, citing unexplained discrepancies including a transfer spending calculation error and unaccounted use of unforeseen expenditure funds. Meanwhile, the Gerindra faction backed the budget but called for stricter oversight of a sharp rise in social assistance allocation.

Ye's Jakarta Concert Projected to Draw 15,000 Foreign Tourists, Hotels and Culinary Sector Set to Stir

Ye (Kanye West)'s concert in Jakarta is projected to attract more than 15,000 foreign tourists from 73 countries, spurring spending on accommodation, transport, food and shopping. Tourism Minister Widiyanti Putri Wardhana said internationally scaled concerts generate economic value well beyond the event itself. The Tourism Ministry recorded 105 events in Indonesia between January and July 2026, involving over 6.47 million visits and an estimated Rp 1.09 trillion in circulation.

Unand's 70th Dies Natalis: Mahyeldi Urges Research with Real Impact for Society

West Sumatra Governor Mahyeldi Ansharullah urged Universitas Andalas to strengthen its research and innovation ecosystem so that findings deliver tangible benefits rather than remaining academic publications. Speaking at the university's 70th Dies Natalis, he highlighted strategic challenges such as artificial intelligence, climate change and food security, and called for stronger collaboration between government, universities and business.

Four Confidants of Nusron Wahid Caught in Corruption Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has identified four private individuals as trusted associates of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning Minister Nusron Wahid in an alleged bribery and gratification scandal at the ministry. All four have been named suspects and are accused of playing roles in collecting and channelling funds related to land services at various levels of the land bureaucracy.

Venus Occultation 2026: A Sky Phenomenon with Many Faces Across Different Regions

Observers across western Indonesia witnessed the rare occultation of Venus by the crescent Moon on 14 September, with the Bosscha Observatory of ITB hosting a live stream involving collaborators from Lampung to Bangkok. The simultaneous observations demonstrated how location, weather and instruments shape what can be seen, with some regions experiencing full occultation and others only a conjunction. It also served as a lesson in celestial geometry, showing that the Moon's proximity to Earth means apparent positions vary by vantage point.

Body Found on Enggano Island Not Yet Identified as Missing Sunda Strait Journalist

Authorities have not yet confirmed whether an unidentified body found on the coast of Enggano Island, Bengkulu, belongs to the missing journalists and crew of KM Arupadatu I in the Sunda Strait. DNA analysis by the DVI medical team is ongoing as the joint SAR operation enters its eighth day. Eight people remain missing since the vessel lost contact on 7 September.

Disaster Before Our Eyes: Trump Gives Unexpected Comments on AI

US President Donald Trump has dismissed fears that artificial intelligence could destroy humanity as a hoax, resisting calls for further AI regulation. Despite warnings from tech leaders such as Sam Altman, Elon Musk and Dario Amodei, Trump insisted development must continue, framing the priority as ensuring China does not win the race for the transformative technology.

KPK Says Four Suspects in Land Rights Case Allegedly Trusted Confidants of Nusron Wahid

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has named eight suspects in a bribery case concerning building use rights (HGB) for PT Summarecon Agung Tbk in Bogor Regency, West Java. Four of them, including former Kebumen Regent Arif Sugiyanto and Golkar DPP chairman Fahd El Fouz, are alleged to be confidants of Agrarian and Spatial Planning Minister Nusron Wahid. The case stems from a sting operation conducted on 14 September 2026 across the Jabodetabek region.

Governance Is the Key to Well-Targeted Management of Zakat, Infaq and Sadaqah Funds

Transparent and accountable governance is essential for managing zakat, infaq and sadaqah (ZIS) funds so that disbursement reaches beneficiaries appropriately. Yayasan Baitul Maal BRILiaN has adopted a Governance, Risk and Compliance (GRC) approach, earning a Five-Star Excellence rating at the TOP GRC Awards 2026, while its chairman M. Dadang Permana was named Most Committed GRC Leader 2026.

OJK: Tin to be the first product traded on the ICOMEX exchange

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has confirmed that tin will be the first commodity traded on Indonesia's strategic minerals and commodities exchange, ICOMEX, which is targeted to begin operations on 4 January 2027. OJK executive Sarjito told a hearing with House Commission XI that tin was chosen because it is already traded on the Jakarta Futures Exchange, and that the exchange should boost transparency, liquidity and downstream industrialisation.

Eight Types of Businesses Predicted to Go Extinct Within 10 Years

Shark Tank star Kevin O'Leary has warned that entire categories of business could disappear within a decade if they fail to adapt. His list of at-risk sectors includes office real estate, restaurants reliant on office workers, firms refusing AI, and small speculative crypto projects. He also flags geopolitical risks tied to China manufacturing and stresses cash-flow discipline as the decisive factor for survival.

KPK Names Eight Suspects in Bogor Land Agency Corruption Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has named eight suspects in an alleged corruption case within the Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning. The designations followed a sting operation that uncovered sufficient preliminary evidence. Suspects include the head of the Bogor Regency Land Office, a Golkar politician, a former regent of Kebumen, and the president director of PT Summarecon Agung Tbk.

Volunteers Assist Recovery of Earthquake Victims in East Nusa Tenggara

Volunteers from PT Patra Jasa have been deployed to assist communities affected by the magnitude 7.7 earthquake that struck Flores, East Nusa Tenggara. Beyond distributing basic aid, the volunteers provided trauma healing activities for children and educational supplies for schools. The relief effort was carried out alongside the company's Islamic da'wah body and Pertamina's BAZMA.

DIY Regional Parliament hopes new Finance Minister will evaluate TKD budget cuts

Commission A of the Yogyakarta Special Region Legislative Council (DPRD DIY) has called on the new Finance Minister, Suahazil Zahara, to revoke sweeping cuts to the central government's transfers to the regions (TKD). DIY's regional budget has fallen from Rp5.4 trillion to Rp4.8 trillion, with village funds in four regencies cut by an average of 74 per cent, threatening local development and public services.

Academic calls for agrarian reform bill to consider restitution for customary communities

Maria S.W. Sumardjono, an academic from Universitas Gadjah Mada, has urged the House of Representatives' Legislative Body to include a restitution mechanism in the Agrarian Reform Bill (RUU-PRA) for customary communities whose ulayat land was historically surrendered to the state. She argued that indigenous peoples require distinct treatment owing to their special relationship with customary land, and that the bill should comprehensively address rights recovery, legal certainty, empowerment and conflict resolution.

Indonesia, India strengthen telecom cooperation on 6G, future tech

Indonesia and India have signed a five-year Memorandum of Understanding to develop telecommunications technology, covering joint research on 4G and 5G, exploration of 6G, quantum technology and advanced wireless communications. Communication and Digital Minister Meutya Hafid said the partnership, which follows the Indian Prime Minister's visit to Indonesia, will include capacity building, disaster-management communications, B2B collaboration and an annual Indonesian-Indian Telco Dialogue to sustain cooperation.

Bareskrim uncovers 5.4 kg of crystal meth hidden in a car's spare tyre in Surabaya

Indonesia's National Police Criminal Investigation Directorate, together with East Java Customs and Surabaya Class I Prison, have seized 5.4 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine from a Jakarta-Surabaya-Lombok trafficking network concealed inside a car's spare tyre. One suspect was arrested at Jamrud Ro-Ro Terminal, whilst two others remain on the run. The haul was valued at roughly Rp975 million.

Bulungan Livestock Devotion Month 2026 promotes food self-sufficiency

The Bulungan Regency Government in North Kalimantan has launched Livestock Devotion Month 2026 to strengthen the livestock sector and drive food self-sufficiency. Local broiler chicken demand stands at around 8,000 birds daily, but local farmers supply only about 1,500, with the shortfall imported mainly from Berau Regency and Tarakan. The government plans to use Village Fund Allocations to develop village-level poultry enterprises, with clearer regulations expected by 2027.

Indonesian Ulema Council Criticises Brutal Goat Slaughter Ritual at Pekalongan Maulid Carnival

The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) has criticised the Simbang Kulon Night Carnival 2026 in Pekalongan, Central Java, held to commemorate the Prophet Muhammad's birthday, after a staged goat slaughter resembling satanic rituals horrified the public. MUI Deputy Chairman Kiai Cholil said animal slaughter must not be turned into a horror spectacle and urged organisers to keep Maulid celebrations within the bounds of Islamic values.

North Maluku Governor Sherly Tjoanda Complains at DPR of Being Left Hanging by ATR/BPN Ministry Under Nusron

North Maluku Governor Sherly Tjoanda told a House Commission II hearing that 16,000 hectares of land proposed for agrarian reform certification have stalled for a year under the ATR/BPN Ministry led by Nusron Wahid. She argued that as head of the regional Agrarian Reform Task Force she bears responsibility without the authority to execute, jeopardising farmers who make up 60 per cent of the province's population.

House Commission XI: ICOMEX Mineral Exchange to Launch on 17 September

President Prabowo Subianto is set to launch the Indonesian mineral and strategic commodities exchange, ICOMEX, on 17 September, according to House Commission XI Chair Mukhamad Misbakhun. The OJK has consulted the DPR on two draft regulations covering the transfer of supervisory duties and the operation of the exchange, with trading targeted to commence on 4 January 2027.

BMKG detects 4,028 hotspots across Sumatra

The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) Pekanbaru station detected 4,028 hotspots across Sumatra, with South Sumatra contributing the largest share at 2,994. Smoke from forest and land fires in southern Sumatra, driven by south-easterly and south-westerly winds, is worsening air quality in Riau Province.

Costa: European Union Continues to Support Ukraine, Steps Up Pressure on Russia

European Council President Antonio Costa said the EU will continue to support Ukraine amid the war with Russia whilst increasing pressure on Moscow. Speaking after meeting Austrian Chancellor Christian Stocker in Vienna, Costa also called for a new approach to the EU's long-term budget for 2028-2034 and urged member states to reach agreement by the end of this year.

Pertagas Wins Top Honour at TOP GRC Awards 2026, Underscoring Strengthened Corporate Governance

PT Pertamina Gas (Pertagas) received the highest honour at the TOP GRC Awards 2026, a Five Star rating in the 'Highly Excellent' category, recognising its consistent application of governance, risk management and compliance (GRC). Its Risk Management Director, Muhammad Suryadi, also received an individual award as The High Performing Compliance Director on GRC 2026. The awards were presented at the Raffles Jakarta hotel and drew participation from more than 900 companies across Indonesia.

Benny Harman: Agrarian reform must provide certainty of land rights

Legislative Body member Benny K Harman has called for the Agrarian Reform Bill to resolve inequality in land control while providing legal certainty for lawful ownership. He emphasised the need for balanced redistribution and restitution, backed by audit and verification mechanisms, so the reform does not become a mere land-grabbing exercise.

PT JIEP prepares new business strategy and develops integrated health estate

PT Jakarta Industrial Estate Pulogadung (Perseroda) has secured shareholder approval for its 2026-2030 business plan and a mandate to develop an integrated health estate. The move aligns with DKI Jakarta's regional development agenda and Danareksa's Expand ONE pillar, alongside rezoning initiatives including TOD-based development and LRT/MRT integration at Pulogadung.

Blora Regent Moves Quickly to Repair Dilapidated Home of Elderly Woman and Her Two Disabled Grandchildren

Blora Regent Arief Rohman visited a substandard home in Gagakan village belonging to Samijah, a 71-year-old woman living with two grandchildren who have been disabled since birth. Baznas provided Rp20 million for house rehabilitation, while the Social Service supplied basic household items. The Regent urged village officials, volunteers and the public to work together and ensure continuous assistance for the family.

West Java Provincial Government Completes Rp142 Billion Parung Panjang Road Repairs

The West Java Provincial Government has completed repairs on 15.1 kilometres of the Parung Panjang to Bunar road in Bogor Regency, costing Rp142 billion. The road had suffered severe damage from overloaded mining trucks, prompting the installation of four-metre-high barriers and a 24-hour ban on mining transport through three districts.

15,000 Foreign Tourists Projected for YE Concert, Jakarta's Economy Set to Benefit

More than 15,000 foreign tourists from 73 countries are projected to attend the YE Live in Jakarta 2026 concert, potentially boosting the local economy through hotels, transport, culinary and creative sectors. Tourism Minister Widiyanti Putri Wardhana said international-scale concerts generate economic value beyond the event itself, while Governor Pramono Anung noted Jakarta's 5.52 percent growth and its 16.15 percent contribution to the national economy.

KPK detains Golkar Party DPP Chairman Fahd Arafiq over alleged corruption in Summarecon HGB arrangement

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has officially detained Golkar Party DPP Chairman Fahd El Fouz, also known as Fahd Arafiq, alongside PT Summarecon Agung Tbk President Director Adrianto Pitojo Adhi and several other suspects. The detentions follow a sting operation related to alleged corruption in the processing of building use rights (HGB) for Summarecon in Bogor Regency, West Java.

North Jakarta Police Chief Urges Personnel to Build Closer Ties with the Community

North Jakarta Metro Police Chief Commissioner Adhe Hariadi has called on personnel to strengthen police-community relations, stating that maintaining public security and order requires not only law enforcement but also communication and a visible police presence. The remarks came during a handover ceremony for the Kelapa Gading Police Chief and the police's head of public relations posts. He expressed hope that the newly appointed officers would adapt quickly, continue existing programmes, and help boost public trust in the police institution.

Traumatised by Food Poisoning, SMPN 2 Jepara Students Reject Free Nutritious Meals for Over a Month

Students at SMPN 2 Jepara in Central Java have refused the return of the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme for more than a month after 112 students and 13 teachers suffered food poisoning in early August 2026. The school plans to hold a vote and survey parents before deciding whether to resume distribution. The headmaster said the school is not rejecting the programme outright, but wants trauma counselling for pupils first.

Tax Digitalisation Helps MSMEs Manage Their Businesses More Easily

BNI has signed a partnership with PT Solusi Anak Negeri (Pajakind) to help micro, small and medium enterprises manage business transactions and taxation digitally. The collaboration, delivered through the BNIdirect bisnis programme, combines banking services such as payroll, bill payments and tax payments with Pajakind's digital tax services including online consultation and e-billing. The initiative forms part of the Danantara Indonesia ecosystem state-owned bank's broader effort to support MSME growth through integrated digital solutions.

Police deny violence against slashing suspect in Johar Baru

The Johar Baru sub-precinct police have denied allegations of violence against a 20-year-old suspect in a slashing case linked to a brawl in Central Jakarta. The investigation has been completed and handed to prosecutors, while the victim's family confirmed no knowledge of any abuse during proceedings.

Bakom confident Nazara can maintain Indonesia's economic stability

Muhamad Qodari, deputy chair of the Presidential Communications Office (Bakom), has expressed confidence that newly appointed Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara will succeed in maintaining fiscal health while supporting economic growth. He cited Nazara's academic credentials as an economics professor at the University of Indonesia and his extensive Finance Ministry experience, including six to seven years as deputy finance minister and a prior role heading the Fiscal Policy Agency. Nazara, the third finance minister under President Prabowo Subianto, was sworn in on Monday, replacing Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa, who had succeeded Sri Mulyani in September 2025.

Body of Baby Wrapped in Shopping Bag Found Floating in Pererenan River, Badung

Residents of Pererenan village in Mengwi, Badung, were shocked by the discovery of a baby boy's body found in a blue shopping bag in the local river during a clean-up operation. Police are investigating the parents' identities and the motive behind the abandonment, and have vowed to track down the perpetrator.

19 People Arrested by KPK in ATR/BPN Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) arrested 19 people in a sting operation targeting alleged bribery and gratification at the Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency (ATR/BPN). Those detained span land office officials, private individuals, lawyers, retirees and even drivers, indicating the case extends beyond the government bureaucracy. Among those secured are private figures described as confidants of Minister Nusron Wahid.

KPK Reveals Role of Summarecon CEO in Land Rights Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has alleged that PT Summarecon Agung Tbk chief executive Adrianto Pitojo Adi handed over Rp1.5 billion to Erwin, a confidant of Agrarian and Spatial Planning Minister Nusron Wahid, to facilitate the unblocking and subdivision of the company's building use rights (HGB) in Bogor Regency. The case surfaced during a sting operation at the Bogor Regency Land Office, with investigators seizing around Rp106.3 billion in cash, including foreign currency, packed in some 20 suitcases.

South Lampung Regency secures Rp100 billion in financing to build 50 km of roads

The South Lampung Regency Government has secured Rp100 billion in financing from PT Sarana Multi Infrastruktur (Persero) to reconstruct and upgrade around 50 kilometres of strategic roads across 20 priority segments. The programme is projected to raise the district's road firmness rate from about 63 per cent to 67 per cent and generate vehicle operating cost savings exceeding Rp40 billion per year.

KPK Displays Rp 106.3 Billion Seized in Sting Operation over HGB Bribery Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has named eight suspects in an alleged bribery case concerning the lifting of a building rights title (HGB) blockage on Summarecon land in Bogor Regency, West Java. Investigators seized roughly Rp 106.3 billion in cash, in multiple currencies, from the homes of several suspects. Four of the suspects are said to be trusted associates of Minister of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning Nusron Wahid.

Putin Warns Europe: Deploying Troops to Ukraine Means War

Russian President Vladimir Putin warned European governments that deploying any troops to Ukraine, including peacekeepers, would mean war with Russia. His remarks coincided with a Russian drone strike on rail infrastructure in western Ukraine as Western officials departed a conference in Kyiv, whilst peace efforts by the Trump administration remain stalled over territorial concessions.

Gus Yaqut Says Former Subordinate's Testimony Barely Differs from Slander

Former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas confronted his ex-subordinate Nur Arifin in court over the alleged corruption of additional 2024 hajj quotas, arguing the testimony implicating him was based only on assumption. The presiding judge intervened when discrepancies emerged between Nur Arifin's examination record and his statements in court regarding his alleged refusal of the 50:50 quota policy.

Curators have existed since 1998, PERKAPI pushes for a dedicated law

The Indonesian Curators and Administrators Association (PERKAPI) is urging the House of Representatives to prioritise a bill on the curator profession, which has lacked a dedicated legal framework since its emergence in 1998. PERKAPI argues a specific law would prevent regulatory gaps and overlaps with the 2004 Bankruptcy and PKPU Law. House Commission XIII has designated the bill as a DPR initiative and included it in the annual priority national legislation programme.

Professor: El Nino phenomenon drives wild animals to expand roaming ranges

Professor I Wayan Suana, an animal ecology expert at the University of Mataram, says the prolonged dry season accompanying El Nino is forcing wild animals to expand their home ranges in search of water and food. He warns that drought alters feeding patterns, delays reproduction, and heightens competition around scarce water sources, urging measures to protect natural water sources and habitat connectivity before drought strikes.

Indonesia Develops Multi-Feedstock and Multi-Generation Bioethanol

Pertamina NRE has launched a Bioethanol Development Center in Tegineneng, Pesawaran, Lampung, employing a multi-feedstock, multi-generation approach using first- and second-generation technologies with local raw materials. Sorghum, harvestable three times a year, was selected as the key crop, with its juice used for 1G bioethanol and residual biomass for 2G production. The pilot facility, with a capacity of 60 kilolitres per year, is expected to anchor Lampung as an end-to-end bioethanol hub, with results informing future commercial-scale development.

The Importance of Consumers Understanding the Context of Wellness Product Ingredients

Nutritionists are urging Indonesian consumers to evaluate wellness product ingredients based on their function and context rather than on names or viral social media claims. Brands such as LENCIR are responding by partnering with professionals to educate the public about product contents, amid rising obesity rates and concerns over processed food labelling.

ITS Expert Reveals Sea Conditions Around Site Where KM Virgo Sank

A marine environment expert from ITS Surabaya has detailed the dynamic sea conditions around the Masalembu Islands where KM Virgo Transport 8 sank, noting waves reaching two metres and gusts of up to 30 knots. He cautioned against linking the tragedy to the so-called 'Indonesian Bermuda Triangle' label, insisting the cause must be established through a thorough investigation covering both environmental conditions and technical aspects of the vessel.

BPOM: 31,000 Biological Resources Have Potential to Become Health Products

Indonesia's Food and Drug Supervisory Agency (BPOM) says around 31,000 biological resources have the potential to become natural-based health products, calling for downstream research to translate this into public benefit. BPOM head Taruna Ikrar launched the BRIDGE platform to connect researchers with businesses, stressing that products must meet safety, quality and efficacy standards. He emphasised that cross-sector collaboration is essential to strengthening national health resilience.

BPKP inaugurates senior officials down to sub-coordinator level

Indonesia's Finance and Development Supervisory Agency (BPKP) has sworn in a number of senior officials, including new directors and several provincial office heads. The inauguration, led by BPKP Secretary-General Raden Mas Aris Santosa, was described as a moment to strengthen the agency's organisational capacity amid increasingly complex supervisory challenges.

Industry Minister inaugurates Shell grease manufacturing plant in Bekasi

Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita has officially opened Shell Indonesia's Grease Manufacturing Plant in Marunda, Bekasi, which has an annual production capacity of up to 12 kilotonnes. The minister expressed hope the facility would serve the domestic market and position Indonesia as a regional grease manufacturing hub. The plant, built from 2024 using advanced technology, complements Shell's Marunda lubricants blending plant.

114 Victims Found, Ministry of Transport Focuses on Search for 129 Missing Passengers of KMP Virgo Transport 8

The Ministry of Transport, through its Directorate General of Sea Transportation, continues to support the search and post-incident handling following the sinking of KMP Virgo Transport 8 on the Surabaya–Banjarmasin route. Of the 243 people on board, 114 have been found — 108 alive and 6 dead — while 129 remain missing. The ministry is coordinating search efforts, issuing notices to mariners, deploying communication relay vessels, and assisting PT Jasa Raharja in compensating victims' families.

Expert Highlights Seakeeping Aspects in Virgo Transport 8 Ship Incident

A hydrodynamics expert from ITS Surabaya, Professor I Ketut Aria Pria Utama, has highlighted the seakeeping performance of the 30-year-old Japanese-built ro-ro ferry Virgo Transport 8, which capsized in the Masalembu Islands waters off Sumenep, East Java. He argued that the vessel's design may not suit Indonesian sea conditions, where open waters and extreme waves demand different hull standards, and warned of risks from side openings, water ingress and improper lashing of vehicles.

Nurmadu Islamic boarding school in Kulon Progo holds melon harvest based on productive waqf

Pondok Pesantren Nurul Ummah 2 (Nurmadu) in Kulon Progo, Yogyakarta, has harvested premium hydroponic melons grown on 3,500 square metres of productive waqf land managed in cooperation with a national zakat body. Local officials, including the regional head of the Ministry of Religious Affairs, praised the sharia-based economic empowerment programme as a model for expanding productive waqf use.

The Sinking of Virgo Transport 8: Between Japanese Ship Design and Indonesian Waters

A hydrodynamics expert from ITS Surabaya has questioned whether the Japanese-designed KM Virgo Transport 8, which capsized near the Masalembu Islands, was suitable for Indonesian sea conditions. Professor I Ketut Aria Pria Utama noted that Japan's calm inter-island waters differ greatly from Indonesia's open seas, and highlighted risks such as free water on deck and unsecured vehicle cargo. He also stressed the importance of pre-departure passenger safety education.

Saudi Oil Supply Threatened as Main Pipeline Attacked

Saudi Arabia risks running out of crude export stocks within days after a drone attack crippled the East-West Pipeline, its key route for bypassing the Strait of Hormuz. The disruption threatens up to 4% of global oil supply and has already pushed fuel prices higher worldwide, with US diesel exceeding $6 per gallon.

Three-Vehicle Crash in Tabanan Leaves Woman Dead After Being Run Over by Truck

A fatal three-vehicle collision occurred on the Denpasar-Gilimanuk road in Kediri, Tabanan, when a Honda Vario apparently changed lanes and collided with an oncoming Yamaha Jupiter MX. The Vario's passenger, Gusti Ayu Sumarwati, fell onto the road and was crushed by a passing Isuzu light truck, dying at the scene. Several others were injured and taken to hospital for treatment.

Government Targets 1,296 Red and White Fishermen's Villages in 2026, with 1,090 Sites Already Under Way

The government aims to build Kampung Nelayan Merah Putih (KNMP) at 1,269 locations during 2026, with physical construction already under way at 1,090 sites and 65 villages completed and operating. Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan said the programme forms part of President Prabowo's drive to make the sea a national priority, targeting 5,000 villages by 2029 and a fishermen's exchange rate of 120 by 2027.

Presidential Chief of Staff Praises Karawang Regency Government for Attention to Persons with Disabilities

The Head of the Presidential Staff Office (KSP), Dudung Abdurachman, has praised the Karawang Regency Government in West Java for its inclusive treatment of persons with disabilities, in line with President Prabowo Subianto's Asta Cita. During a visit, the KSP delegation reviewed daycare facilities in industrial and commercial areas as well as training facilities for disabled athletes. Regent Aep Syaepuloh noted that 346 persons with disabilities secured employment in companies in 2025.

Frequent Maritime Transport Users, East Java Drivers Demand Evaluation After Sinking of KM Virgo Transport 8

The East Java Drivers' Movement (GSJT) has called on shipping operators to comprehensively evaluate inter-island ferry fleets following the sinking of KM Virgo Transport 8 in the Java Sea. GSJT records 11 drivers and assistants from East Java still unaccounted for, and demands tighter vessel supervision, regular docking and greater accountability from operators.

UNS Enters Top 5 Most Sustainable Campuses in UI GreenMetric 2026

Sebelas Maret University (UNS) in Surakarta has risen one place to rank among the top five most sustainable campuses in Indonesia in the UI GreenMetric 2026 rankings. The university has also been appointed as host of UI GreenMetric 2027, which it regards as both an honour and a significant responsibility.

Searching for a Stone, Finding a Tooth — Turns Out to Be a 10,000-Year-Old Treasure

A researcher surveying a small stream bed in San Mateo, California, discovered what she thought was an oddly shaped stone, only for experts to identify it as a remarkably well-preserved fossilised molar of a Pacific Mastodon over 10,000 years old. The tooth, hailed as one of the finest fossil finds in the region, has been handed to Stanford University for carbon dating and 3D scanning. Scientists say such finds reveal details about prehistoric diet, climate and environmental change.

KPK Sting Operation Over HGB Licences Seizes Rp106.3 Billion, Billions Found at Home of Nusron Wahid's Trusted Associate

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) seized a record Rp106.3 billion in cash during a sting operation into allegations of bribery over building-use rights (HGB) in Bogor Regency, West Java. The largest haul came from the home of Arif Sugiyanto, former Regent of Kebumen and a trusted associate of Minister of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning Nusron Wahid. Eight suspects have been named, including senior officials from the ATR/BPN Ministry and the Bogor land office.

Cileungsi River Turns Black and Foul-Smelling, Suspected Industrial Waste Pollution

The Cileungsi River in Ciangsana, Gunung Putri, Bogor Regency, West Java, has turned black with a pungent odour, prompting complaints from residents. The Bogor Regency Environment Agency suspects industrial activity and inadequate waste management upstream, and has taken water samples for laboratory testing while tracing waste discharge channels.

ITB Manages Electronic Waste, Users Can Earn Free Internet Data

Bandung's Institute of Technology (ITB) has become the first campus in the city to offer automated e-waste management through the ByeByeBox machine, rewarding users with mobile internet data based on the weight of discarded devices. The programme, running from 14 to 28 September 2026, targets the collection of 600 kilogrammes of electronic waste and involves XL SMART, Remind, GSMA and Bappenas.

Magetan Regency Government hands over 451 PTSL land certificates to Kartoharjo residents

The Magetan Regency Government, together with the National Land Agency (BPN), has handed over 451 land certificates under the Complete Systematic Land Registration (PTSL) programme to residents of Kartoharjo District. Vice Regent Suyatni Priasmoro said the certificates provide legal certainty and protection over land ownership. Magetan has been set a target of 10,000 PTSL land parcels by the central government for 2026.

PB ESI Strengthens National Esports Training Programme Ahead of Asian Games 2026

The Indonesian Esports Federation (PB ESI) has entered a strategic partnership with PT Hisamitsu Pharma Indonesia through its Salonpas brand to bolster the national esports training camp (Pelatnas) ahead of major international events. The support covers preparations for the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games, the Global Esports Games in Los Angeles and further competitions in 2027. The programme applies a sports science approach covering nutrition, mental health and physical load management.

House Commission V to Form Working Committee to Probe Sinking of KM Virgo Transport 8

House of Representatives Commission V plans to establish a working committee (Panja) to investigate the capsizing of KM Virgo Transport 8 in the Java Sea. Commission Chair Lasarus said the probe will examine vessel supervision, weather information and the captain's decisions, with the Ministry of Transportation set to be summoned. The accident has so far left 108 survivors and at least six dead, with four bodies still undergoing identification.

Denpasar develops sport tourism to strengthen its tourism appeal

The Denpasar municipal government is promoting sport tourism to boost the city's tourist appeal and stimulate the local economy, including opportunities for MSMEs and the creative sector. Deputy Mayor I Kadek Agus Arya Wibawa received a Special Recognition Award at the 11th Bali Tourism Award 2026 for his leadership in advancing sport tourism. Bali recorded around 4.6 million tourist visits up to August 2026, showing growth compared with the same period in 2025.

Head of BMKS says Indonesia's mineral exchange must be transparent and liquid

Sarjito, Executive Head of the Mineral and Strategic Commodities Exchange (BMKS) at the OJK's Board of Commissioners, told a working meeting with Commission XI of the House of Representatives that the exchange must be transparent, liquid and trusted. He noted that trading data would be open to the public and market participants, with activity expected to build from the spot market towards derivatives and futures, drawing international traders over time.

BNPB prepares equipment support for forest and land fire brigades in South Sumatra

The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) is supplying equipment to strengthen forest and land fire-fighting brigades in South Sumatra, following squad formation guidance from the Forestry Minister. Ground operations have already extinguished nearly 280 hectares of burnt land in a single day, while 58 helicopters have been deployed nationwide and cloud-seeding operations are planned.

Indonesian Cuisine Draws 58 Per Cent of Foreign Tourists to Visit the Country

A 2025 survey by Statistics Indonesia (BPS) found that 58.34 per cent of foreign tourists visiting Indonesia engaged in culinary or gastronomy tourism. The Tourism Ministry has made gastronomy tourism a flagship programme, with the second Wonderful Indonesia Gourmet event to be held in Solo and Yogyakarta from 26 September to 4 October 2026 under the theme 'From Local Roots to Global Recognition'.

Tidung Island strengthens waste segregation education to protect tourism

Tidung Island in South Kepulauan Seribu, Jakarta, is stepping up public education on waste sorting and processing at source to keep the flagship tourist destination clean. The initiative follows Governor's Instruction No. 5/2026 on a source-based waste segregation movement, which officials say is essential given Jakarta's growing waste volumes and fire risks from methane at waste processing sites.

DNA results of body found on Enggano not yet identified as missing journalist

DNA tests on an unidentified body found on Enggano Island, Bengkulu, have not yet confirmed whether it belongs to the group of journalists and boat crew who went missing in the Sunda Strait, Banten. Search officials continue coordinating with the Bengkulu SAR office as the DVI medical team conducts further autopsy and identification. Eight people remain missing, including five journalists covering the area aboard a vessel.

High Prosecutor's Office to Papua Pegunungan KPU: Every Rupiah Belongs to the Public

The Papua High Prosecutor's Office has reminded the Papua Pegunungan General Election Commission (KPU) and commissions in eight regencies to strictly follow prevailing regulations to avoid legal problems in organising elections and regional polls. Head of the office Jefferdian stressed that public funds must be managed carefully, as regional governments allocated substantial grant funding for the 2024 regional elections, including some Rp93 billion in Jayawijaya and Rp74 billion in Nduga.

Ministry of Energy to develop integrated solar power plants in nine remote villages in Maluku

The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources is developing integrated solar power plants (PLTS) with a total capacity of 1,270.5 kWp across nine remote villages in Maluku's Aru and Tanimbar Islands under the 2026 state budget. The national programme targets 39 units totalling 5,189.8 kWp at a cost of Rp450.21 billion, serving 4,708 households in remote regions including East Nusa Tenggara and Papua.

The Bibi Files Documentary to Be Screened at the European Parliament

The documentary The Bibi Files, based on leaked police interrogation footage of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, is due to be screened inside the European Parliament building in Brussels on 29 September. The screening comes four weeks before Israel's 2026 Knesset election, though organisers stress it is not an official Parliament or EU event.

DJSN says DTSEN improvements will determine the eligibility order for JKN premium subsidies

The National Social Security Council (DJSN) says improvements to the National Socioeconomic Single Data (DTSEN) will help determine the eligibility ranking of recipients of subsidised JKN health insurance premiums more accurately. Officials acknowledge the data is dynamic and urge patience, while the Health Ministry notes that the Indonesian Diagnosis Related Groups (IDRG) system will make healthcare payment mechanisms more precise and measurable.

The US-China AI Race between Existential Threat and Global Dominance

China has launched a comprehensive strategy to dominate global artificial intelligence by the end of the decade, and Stanford's AI Index 2026 reports that the performance gap between American and Chinese AI models has effectively closed. While Washington's AI debate is driven by fears of catastrophic loss of control, Beijing's primary concern is preserving Communist Party power. Analysts warn that without a global agreement, the world risks a self-justifying AI arms race.

PT DSI deploys eight analytics use cases to monitor potential underinvoicing

PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia (DSI) will use eight analytics use cases to detect underinvoicing, transfer pricing and non-repatriation of export proceeds across strategic commodities. Initially the scheme will cover coal, palm oil (CPO) and ferroalloy. DSI stressed it acts as an implementing intermediary, with enforcement remaining with authorised agencies, and called for its role to be clearly established in law.

Tulungagung harvests 272 tonnes of rice amid prolonged dry season

Farmers' groups in Tulungagung, East Java, have harvested rice during a prolonged dry season, with production projected at 272 tonnes of unhusked grain from 34 hectares. The acting regent said yields reached seven to eight tonnes per hectare, with better grain quality than before. The district maintains a rice surplus of 72,683 tonnes despite drought affecting parts of the region.

Wonderful Indonesia Gastronomy creates promotional space for regional cuisine

The Ministry of Tourism's Wonderful Indonesia Gastronomy programme is providing a promotional platform for distinctive regional cuisines across Indonesia. This year's edition is being held in Java, following previous events in Bali and Jakarta, with plans to explore Sumatra's culinary wealth next year. The ministry hopes the initiative, supported by the Indonesia Gastronomy Network, will attract more foreign tourists.

House of Representatives Pushes for Multi-Layered Verification for KIP Kuliah Disbursement

Atalia Praratya, a member of Commission VIII of the House of Representatives, has criticised errors in the National Socio-Economic Single Data (DTSEN) decile classification that have blocked thousands of prospective students from receiving the KIP Kuliah education subsidy. Of 86,118 applicants admitted through the 2026 SNBT route, only 39,662 were deemed eligible, while around 60,000 new students reportedly failed to re-register at state universities due to cost concerns. She is urging the government to adopt multi-layered verification and accelerate decile corrections so that data errors do not strip students of their rights.

20 UBISA Tegal Students Undertake Year-Long International Internship in Taiwan

Twenty students from Bima Sakapenta University (UBISA) in Tegal, Central Java, are taking part in a one-year international internship programme in Taiwan, placed with partner companies according to their fields of study. The programme, an extension of existing international cooperation, provides industry-funded incentives in sectors such as hospitality and building design, with internship credits recognised towards their degrees.

Pramono Asks That All Potential Disasters in Jakarta Be Communicated to the Public

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has instructed the Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) to communicate all potential disaster threats to the public so residents can anticipate them. His directive follows a series of early warnings issued by BPBD covering meteorological drought, landslides, strong winds and high sea waves. Pramono stressed that early warning is part of the government's responsibility, citing the swift communication around Mount Anak Krakatau as an example.

DVI Team Identifies All Deceased Victims of the Virgo Ship Sinking

The Disaster Victim Identification team of South Kalimantan Regional Police has identified all six bodies recovered from the sinking of the Virgo Transport 8 in the Java Sea. Search and rescue operations have found 114 people so far — 108 survivors and six dead — leaving 129 passengers still missing out of 243 aboard.

KDS: PKK Cadres Are the Vanguard Driving Development in Bandung Regency

Bandung Regent Dadang Supriatna has hailed PKK (Family Welfare and Empowerment) cadres as the frontline of development and community welfare during the 2026 PKK Cadre Jamboree. He pledged BPJS Ketenagakerjaan coverage, five umrah packages and housing assistance for cadres, while urging vigilance amid 324 fire hotspots caused by drought in the regency.

House Member Urges Ministry of Transport to Disclose Latest Inspection Results of KM Virgo

Hamka B Kady, a member of House Commission V, has demanded a thorough evaluation of maritime safety regulations after the sinking of KMP Virgo Transport 8 in the Java Sea. He called on the Ministry of Transport to publicly disclose the vessel's last inspection results, classification status and the basis for issuing its sailing permit, while urging KNKT to investigate the accident comprehensively.

Democrats: Finance Minister Reshuffle the Right Step to Restore Market Confidence

Dede Yusuf, Deputy Chairman of the Democrat Party, has backed President Prabowo Subianto's decision to replace Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa as Finance Minister, calling it a strategic move to restore market confidence in the national economy. He also predicted the cabinet reshuffle would extend to other ministries and said the Democrats stand ready to nominate qualified cadres if needed.

State Budget Deficit Risk a Fiscal Challenge for the New Finance Minister

Suahasil Nazara has been sworn in as Finance Minister, replacing Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa, in the third change at the post under President Prabowo's administration. Economists view his fiscal prudence and long experience at the Finance Ministry positively, but warn that the state budget deficit nearing the 3 per cent of GDP ceiling, weak tax collection and heavy debt burdens pose major challenges.

Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries Cracks Down on 37 Illegal Fish Aggregating Devices in North Maluku

The Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) has dismantled 37 illegally installed fish aggregating devices (rumpon) in North Maluku between January and early September 2026. The operation, conducted with the provincial fisheries office, aims to protect small-scale fishermen's access to fish stocks, as illegal rumpon disrupt fish migration routes. Officials stressed that rumpon placement requires a valid permit under Ministerial Regulation No. 36 of 2023, and further crackdowns are planned across Indonesian waters.

Finance Minister Suahasil Ready to Continue Coordination with KSSK

Newly installed Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara has pledged to continue coordination with the Financial System Stability Committee (KSSK) in shaping fiscal and economic policy. The committee brings together the Finance Ministry, Bank Indonesia, the OJK and the LPS, and recently also involved Danantara for an investment perspective. Suahasil was sworn in on 14 September 2026, succeeding Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa as the third finance minister under President Prabowo Subianto.

SOE Chief Reveals Rp456 Billion Received to Build 12 LRT City Sites

Deputy Head of the SOE Regulatory Body (BP BUMN) Aminuddin Ma'ruf said a Rp456 billion injection from BPI Danantara will be used to resume stalled LRT City projects across 12 locations. Adhi Karya subsidiary ADCP has been given until 1 October 2026 to complete an inventory of undelivered units, with further meetings scheduled for mid-October. No refund option has been offered to consumers so far.

KPK Seizes Rp106.3 Billion in Cash Linked to Bribery at the ATR/BPN Ministry

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has seized around Rp106.3 billion in cash during a sting operation connected to alleged bribery and gratuities within the Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency (ATR/BPN). Eight suspects have been arrested, including the ministry's Director-General and the chief executive of a major domestic property firm.

Evidence from Sting Operation in BPN-Summarecon Bribery Case: Rp106 Billion in Cash

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) seized approximately Rp106 billion in cash, including foreign currencies, during a sting operation linked to land-rights processing at the Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency (ATR/BPN). Eight suspects have been named, including senior ministry officials, Golkar politician Fahd El Fouz and Summarecon Agung president director Adrianto Pitojo Adhi. All suspects have been detained for 20 days pending further investigation.

KPK Reveals Money Collection Scheme to Nusron's Trusted Associates

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has uncovered an alleged money collection scheme within the Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency (ATR/BPN), involving trusted associates of Minister Nusron Wahid. Funds allegedly flowed from land services, including a Rp 1.5 billion payment linked to Summarecon, with cash found stashed in suitcases and cardboard boxes. Eight suspects have been named, including senior ministry officials and private individuals.

Man from Cianjur Promises Work in Japan, Defrauds Buleleng Resident of Rp 31.1 Million

A 27-year-old man from Cianjur, West Java, defrauded a resident of Buleleng, Bali, of Rp 31.1 million by promising to send the victim's child to work in Japan. The suspect, a former Japanese language tutor at a job training centre, fabricated documents including a visa, work contract and travel ticket before the scheme unravelled. He has been charged under Articles 482 and 486 of the new Criminal Code on fraud and embezzlement.

Beware: Tooth Pain That Suddenly Disappears Could Signal Dead Nerves and Infection

Dental health experts warn that a sudden cessation of toothache often indicates the nerve tissue inside the tooth has died, which can trigger infection and, if untreated, lead to systemic complications. Speaking ahead of National Dental Health Day 2026, VP of Medical Affairs at SATU Dental Group, drg. Melissa Delania, urged the public to have routine check-ups every six months. SATU Dental's CEO also highlighted the company's expansion to 57 clinic branches nationwide to improve access to affordable dental care in Indonesia.

Search Extends to 500 Metres Off Mount Anak Krakatau Coast, Hunt for Five Missing Journalists Still Yields Nothing

The joint search and rescue operation for eight passengers of the Arupadhatu 1 speedboat, missing in the Sunda Strait, has entered its ninth day without result. SAR teams swept waters as close as 500 metres off the coast of Mount Anak Krakatau to verify social media reports of the vessel's sighting, but found no trace of the boat or its passengers.

Children with dyslexia need support while learning

A paediatric growth and development specialist has said children with specific learning disorders such as dyslexia need accompaniment during learning, including at school. Dr Farid Agung Rahmadi stressed that teachers should be able to recognise learning difficulty patterns early and provide staged interventions, from classroom teaching to individual support.

Trump Scraps Emission Rules: Boom or Bust for Indonesian Coal Producers?

The US Environmental Protection Agency under President Trump has repealed Biden-era rules limiting greenhouse gas emissions from coal and gas power plants, citing cost savings of up to US$310 billion. While the move could boost US coal production, its impact on Indonesian coal exporters is ambiguous, as increased American output could either flood the global market and depress prices or be absorbed domestically. Legal challenges to the deregulation are widely expected.

A New Disaster from the Strait of Hormuz: Dead Fish and Contaminated Drinking Water

The Strait of Hormuz conflict, which has halted most shipping through the world's most important oil transit route, is now creating severe ecological risks that could outlast the war itself. Oil spills from destroyed tankers threaten the interconnected Persian Gulf ecosystem, fisheries, coastal livelihoods and desalination plants that supply drinking water to Gulf states. Scientists warn of long-term damage, including potential invasive species spread from stranded vessels, requiring decades of recovery.

Adhi Karya pledges to oversee resolution of LRT City issue

PT Adhi Karya's chief executive has apologised and committed to overseeing the completion of the troubled LRT City property project, following orders from the SOE Ministry and Danantara. Around 2,400 units remain undelivered to buyers, with an inventory of affected consumers due by early October and a final resolution targeted between 10 and 15 October 2026.

Saudi Civil Defence Declares Houthi Threat in Makkah and Jeddah Has Ended

Saudi Civil Defence briefly warned of danger in Makkah, Taif and Jeddah via the national early warning platform, before announcing the threat had passed. Saudi Arabia's Council of Ministers, chaired by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, condemned continued Houthi attacks on civilian facilities, while Qatar also strongly denounced the strikes as a violation of Saudi sovereignty.

To Expand Market Access, Government Targets Fishermen's Exchange Rate to Reach 120

The government is accelerating the construction of 5,000 Red and White Fishermen's Villages (KNMP) by 2029 as part of efforts to improve coastal communities' welfare. Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan said the fishermen's exchange rate is targeted to reach 120 by 2027, alongside wider market access for fishing produce. So far, 65 KNMP sites have been built and are operational, with construction of a further 35 sites at 85.6 per cent progress.

KPK Reveals Four Trusted Associates of Nusron in Summarecon HGB Bribery Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has named four of eight newly detained suspects in the ATR/BPN Ministry land bribery case as trusted associates of Minister Nusron Wahid. The case centres on an alleged Rp1.5 billion bribe paid by property developer Summarecon to unblock and convert land certificates in Bogor Regency, alongside other gratification payments exceeding Rp20 billion. Investigators are continuing to trace the origin and recipients of the funds.

Called a Trusted Aide of Nusron, Here Is Fahd A Rafiq's Role in the HGB Case

The KPK has named Fahd El Fouz, also known as Fahd A Rafiq, as a trusted confidant of Land and Spatial Planning Minister Nusron Wahid, allegedly acting as the collector of illicit funds in a bribery case involving land services at the ministry. Investigators have so far seized around Rp 106.3 billion in cash and electronic evidence, with eight suspects named in total. The anti-graft agency continues to trace the origins and flows of the money, which is linked to HGB (building rights) processing, staff mutations and promotions.

Saudi Arabia issues emergency warning over potential danger

Saudi Arabia's Civil Defence issued an emergency warning on Tuesday about a "potential danger" in Jeddah, Mecca and Taif, urging residents to seek shelter and follow official safety instructions. The alert comes amid escalating clashes between Saudi forces and Yemen's Houthi group, which has launched missile and drone attacks on Saudi cities in recent days.

Tito Urges Regional Governments to Be Cautious in Issuing Municipal Bonds

Interior Minister Muhammad Tito Karnavian has urged regional governments to exercise prudence when issuing municipal bonds, warning that debt must be matched to local fiscal capacity. He said bonds are only advisable for productive projects that generate revenue, such as hospitals managed as regional public service agencies, and cautioned against burdening future regional heads with inherited debt.

Qodari: DTSEN Ensures Social Protection Reaches Those in Need

The government has officially implemented the National Socio-Economic Single Data (DTSEN) as a unified database to ensure social protection programmes reach genuinely deserving citizens. Head of the Government Communication Agency (Bakom) Muhammad Qodari said the integrated data has already identified 4.33 million new beneficiary families previously missed by fragmented systems. He stressed DTSEN serves as a social registry, with final beneficiary determination remaining the responsibility of relevant ministries.

Economist Urges Finance Minister Suahasil to Strategically Reallocate Budget

UOB ASEAN Economist Enrico Tanuwidjaja has urged newly appointed Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara to reallocate and recalibrate the state budget towards health, MSMEs and education, noting that Indonesia's fiscal position remains sound with a June deficit of only 0.76 per cent of GDP. Suahasil, sworn in by President Prabowo Subianto replacing Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa, has pledged to keep the APBN as an instrument of growth and economic stability.

Drinking Orange Juice Every Day Alters the Activity of Thousands of Genes in the Body

A study published in Molecular Nutrition & Food Research in October 2025 found that drinking 500 ml of pasteurised orange juice daily for 60 days altered the activity of 1,705 genes in immune cells. Most of the affected genes relate to inflammation, blood pressure and fat metabolism, with inflammatory genes generally becoming less active. Researchers note that responses varied by body weight, opening the door to more personalised nutrition advice.

Local Consultants Urged to Be Given Priority in Regional Budget Projects

Inkindo DKI Jakarta has called for an affirmative policy prioritising local small and medium-sized consultants in projects funded by the provincial budget (APBD). At its 2026 provincial working meeting, the association proposed that such preferences be enshrined in regional regulations or gubernatorial decrees, citing East Kalimantan and West Nusa Tenggara as examples. The body also signed memoranda of understanding with professional associations and universities to strengthen collaboration.

Video: Want to Buy an Electric Car? Here's What Indonesians Consider

Indonesia's energy transition towards renewables and carbon emission reduction is driving public interest in electric vehicles. Industry figures say EV adoption hinges on charging infrastructure, battery warranties and government tax incentives, alongside manufacturers' marketing strategies.

OJK to strengthen coordination with new Finance Minister to safeguard financial system

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has pledged to strengthen coordination within the Financial System Stability Committee (KSSK) following Suahasil Nazara's appointment as Finance Minister, aiming to maintain financial stability and support national economic growth. OJK Chair Friderica Widyasari Dewi praised Suahasil, a former ex-officio OJK commissioner, as a highly capable figure. Suahasil has expressed readiness to continue KSSK coordination on fiscal and economic policy, with the committee also involving the Danantara investment management agency.

KPK suspects four of eight ATR/BPN case suspects are close associates of Nusron Wahid

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) suspects that four of the eight suspects in a bribery case at the Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency (ATR/BPN) are trusted associates of Minister Nusron Wahid. The case relates to alleged corruption in the processing of building use rights (HGB) for PT Summarecon Agung Tbk in Bogor Regency, West Java.

DMO Supply Above 54%, PTBA Forgoes Potential Profit of Rp 14.5 Trillion

PT Bukit Asamin (PTBA) has supplied coal for domestic needs at more than 54% annually, well above the government's 25% minimum, forfeiting an estimated Rp 14.5 trillion in potential profit between 2018 and 2025. President Director Bambang Ismawan told a DPR hearing that private miners' poor compliance with DMO obligations forces PTBA to shoulder the bulk of domestic supply, and urged fairer enforcement. Despite this burden, the company posted a 218% jump in first-half 2026 net profit to Rp 2.65 trillion.

These Are the Eight Suspects Detained by the KPK Following the Land Title Bribery Sting

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has named and detained eight suspects following a sting operation at the Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency (ATR/BPN). Those detained include senior ministry officials, a former regent, a Golkar party figure and private sector individuals, all linked to alleged bribery over building-use rights (HGB) for a private company in Bogor Regency, West Java.

The Last Message of a Mataram Crew Member of KM Virgo Before Disappearing in the Java Sea

The sinking of KM Virgo Transport 8 in the Java Sea in the early hours of Sunday has left families of crew members in anguish, including the wife of I Putu Angga Santyana from Mataram, who received his last WhatsApp message on Saturday night. The vessel, carrying 243 people from Surabaya to Banjarmasin, capsized in bad weather; 114 people have so far been evacuated, including 108 survivors and six dead.

Telkomsel Launches Data-Driven Solution to Market Products

Telkomsel Enterprise has introduced a data-based retail media approach combining DigiAds, Rich Communication Services and its DigiPOS network with closed-loop measurement to link digital campaigns to verifiable offline consumer actions. In a pilot with Rinso (Unilever Indonesia) targeting West Java's traditional markets, the campaign reached more than 20,000 consumers, lifted General Trade sales by 27% and cut acquisition costs by 29% versus FMCG benchmarks.

KPK Seizes Rp 106.3 Billion in Sting Operation, Largest Amount from Nusron's Trusted Associate

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has seized Rp 106.3 billion in cash during a sting operation related to a bribery case concerning building use rights (HGB) at the Bogor Regency National Land Agency office. The largest share, including foreign currency, was found at the home of Arif Sugiyanto, a former Regent of Kebumen and trusted associate of ATR/BPN Minister Nusron Wahid. Eight suspects have been named, including a director general at the ministry and the president director of PT Summarecon Agung Tbk.

BNPP Ready to Partner with 10 Neighbouring Countries to Strengthen Border Management

Indonesia's National Border Management Agency (BNPP) will host the Indonesia Border Partnership Coffee Morning, bringing together diplomatic representatives from ten neighbouring countries. The forum, led by Home Affairs Minister Muhammad Tito Karnavian, aims to strengthen communication and cooperation on border management, covering connectivity, security and community welfare.

Rodrigo Duterte suffering 'significant memory impairment': Defence

Lawyers for former Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte told the International Criminal Court that the 81-year-old suffers significant memory impairment, sometimes forgetting his lead counsel's name, making him unfit to stand trial for crimes against humanity. Prosecutors countered that he is capable of exercising his fair trial rights ahead of the trial scheduled for 30 November. Judges are weighing a medical assessment, and Duterte could appear in person at a pre-trial hearing, the first former Asian head of state to do so.

Snatcher of Malaysian National's Necklace in Kerobokan Arrested; Repeat Offender from Karangasem Nabbed

A repeat offender from Karangasem, identified as IWJ, has been arrested for snatching a gold necklace worth Rp 38.9 million from a Malaysian national in Kerobokan, Badung. Police recovered the 22-gram necklace and revealed the suspect had used an online motorcycle taxi vest as camouflage, targeting foreigners wearing conspicuous jewellery.

DKI Jakarta needs strengthened family services

The Ministry of Population and Family Development/BKKBN says Jakarta needs stronger Family Welfare Service Centres (PPKS), known as Satyagatra, to build family resilience. With 2.44 million families and around 14,000 divorces recorded in 2025, the centres offer integrated information, education, counselling and referral services. Some 26 Satyagatra centres currently operate across five cities and regencies in the capital.

OECD Report Causes Stir, 60% of Young People in Indonesia's Neighbour Struggle with Reading

The latest OECD PISA assessment reveals that 59% of Vietnamese students aged 15 cannot apply reading comprehension to real-world situations, with Vietnam's average scores falling by 15 to 70 points compared with 2022. Vietnam's Ministry of Education and Training attributed the decline partly to the country's first switch from paper-based to computer-based testing. The results highlight regional educational challenges, with China topping maths and science and Singapore leading in reading.

Pelindo urges Agrarian Reform Bill to protect strategic assets

PT Pelabuhan Indonesia (Pelindo) has asked lawmakers drafting the Agrarian Reform Bill to provide clear legal protection for land assets used for strategic purposes, particularly port infrastructure. Its chief executive argued that land serving strategic transport functions should not automatically be designated as an agrarian reform object without thorough verification and assessment. The state-owned port operator also called for clarity on the status of idle BUMN land reserved for future development.

Government decision to hold subsidised fuel prices deemed correct

Economist Robert R Winerungan of Manado State University has praised the government's decision to hold the prices of subsidised Pertalite and Biosolar, arguing it protects people's purchasing power and keeps inflation in check. He acknowledged that maintaining Pertalite at Rp10,000 per litre amid global oil prices above US$107 per barrel will swell the subsidy burden on the state budget, but said the benefits outweigh the costs. The Energy and Mineral Resources Minister, Bahlil Lahadalia, noted national oil prices of US$85-90 per barrel had exceeded the 2026 budget assumption of US$70.

Revealed! Summarecon Boss Suspected of Transferring Rp1.5 Billion to Nusron's Trusted Aide

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has uncovered a Rp1.5 billion payment allegedly made by PT Summarecon Agung Tbk chief executive Adrianto Pitojo Adhi through intermediaries to Erwin, described as a trusted aide of Land and Spatial Planning Minister Nusron Wahid. The payment relates to a suspected bribery case over the processing of building use rights (HGB) for disputed land in Bogor Regency, West Java. Adrianto has now been named a suspect in the case.

Trump Calls AI Threat Warnings a Hoax, Interrupts NVIDIA's AI Summit

President Donald Trump made a surprise phone call to NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang during the All-In Summit in Los Angeles, dismissing warnings that AI poses an existential threat as a hoax. He argued that blocking data centre construction would benefit geopolitical rivals such as China, and claimed AI infrastructure would be the oil of the next two decades.

KPKP monitors fish health on four inhabited islands of Kepulauan Seribu

The Kepulauan Seribu Food Security, Marine and Fisheries Sub-agency is conducting routine monitoring of fish health and aquaculture environmental quality on four inhabited islands to enable early detection of disease and safeguard the sustainability of community fishery businesses. Officers collected 19 samples, comprising 14 water quality samples and 5 fish samples, across Tidung, Pari, Lancang and Untung Jawa islands.

Agrinas Palma and Uncen Partner to Develop Plantations and Food Crops in South Papua

State-owned PT Agrinas Palma Nusantara has signed a research partnership with Cenderawasih University to underpin plans for a roughly 400,000-hectare plantation and food estate in South Papua. The collaboration will cover land suitability, productivity, sustainable cultivation, agroindustrial downstreaming and the empowerment of local farmers, with anthropological and sociological studies to safeguard the rights and interests of indigenous communities.

Warren Buffett Warns of Rising 'Gambling' Masquerading as Investment

Legendary investor Warren Buffett has warned that market conditions are increasingly worrying, likening the modern stock market to a place of worship sitting alongside a casino as speculation reaches unprecedented levels. Berkshire Hathaway's US$397 billion cash pile and consistent selling of shares underscore the seriousness of his stance. The article also outlines five popular instruments that are speculative bets rather than genuine investments.

KPK Reveals Identities of Eight Suspects from ATR/BPN Ministry Sting Operation

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has named eight suspects in an alleged corruption case concerning the processing of building use rights (HGB) for PT Summarecon Agung Tbk in Bogor Regency, West Java. The suspects include a director-general at the ATR/BPN Ministry, a Golkar politician, and the president director of PT Summarecon Agung Tbk, following a sting operation that netted billions of rupiah in cash evidence.

BNN warns of growing threat from liquid narcotics

Indonesia's National Narcotics Agency (BNN) has warned of a rising trend in liquid narcotics, seizing nearly eight tons of drugs in four major cases over the past two months, including cannabis buds from Thailand intended for European export. BNN official Seto highlighted that liquid narcotics are increasingly smuggled through e-cigarettes, with laboratory tests finding New Psychoactive Substances in 1,716 of 1,745 vape samples analysed. The agency has recommended a total ban on e-cigarettes, urging companies such as flag carrier Garuda Indonesia to prohibit their use in workplaces.

Latest List of Survivors and Deceased Passengers of KM Virgo 8

Basarnas reported that 114 victims have been evacuated following the KM Virgo Transport 8 incident in the Java Sea, with six passengers confirmed dead and 129 others still missing. The joint SAR team continues search operations, releasing updated lists of survivors and identified victims.

Suspended Cilacap Regent seeks acquittal, denies receiving holiday allowance funds

Suspended Cilacap Regent Syamsul Auliya Rachman has asked the judges at the Semarang Corruption Court to acquittal him of charges of extorting regional agency heads to fund holiday allowances. He denies ordering or receiving any money, claiming rogue individuals acted in his name. Prosecutors say some Rp568 million was collected from agency heads.

Tin to Be First Commodity Sold on ICOMEX Mineral Exchange

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has announced that tin will be the first strategic mining commodity traded on the Indonesia Commodity Exchange (ICOMEX), which launches on 17 September 2026. OJK expects involvement of state mining holding MIND ID to boost participation and liquidity, supporting downstreaming and domestic industrial demand. The first transactions are targeted for 4 January 2027.

They exchange vows atop water tanker trucks

Eleven couples in Bantul, Yogyakarta, took part in a mass wedding procession riding on decorated water tanker trucks to the local religious affairs office (KUA Sewon). The unusual celebration comes amid a seven-year decline in marriage rates across the Special Region of Yogyakarta.

Ministry of MSMEs Makes Unhas an Entrepreneurship Ecosystem Hub, Targeting a 3.6 Per Cent Ratio

The Outstanding Entrepreneur Exchange (BWU) South Sulawesi 2026 was held at Hasanuddin University in Makassar, bringing together around 1,000 entrepreneurs and MSMEs with ministries, banks, incubators and universities. The event featured a mass People's Business Credit (KUR) signing ceremony through five channeling banks, with national KUR disbursement reaching Rp221 trillion to 3.44 million MSMEs. The government aims to raise the entrepreneurship ratio to 3.6 per cent by 2029 and 8 per cent by 2045, supported by Presidential Regulation No. 38 of 2026.

MTI Pushes for Regulated Agent Scheme to Be Applied in Sea Transport

Djoko Setijowarno, an advisor to the Indonesian Transport Society (MTI), is urging the adoption of the Regulated Agent (RA) system—already used in air cargo—to strengthen maritime safety oversight of ship cargo, particularly hazardous materials (B3). He argues that inspections should begin at the point of origin, with cargo checked, packed and sealed before reaching the port, complementing existing regulations and the IMDG Code.

Sleman supports administration of Sultanate land to provide legal certainty

The Sleman Regency Government in Yogyakarta has supported the administration and regulation of Sultanate land (Sultanaat Grond) to provide legal certainty for local residents. The commitment was marked by the handing-over of Serat Kekancingan documents to 83 residents of Padukuhan Sengir, an area relocated after the 2006 Yogyakarta earthquake.

Burned Land Area in West Kalimantan Reaches 48,536 Hectares, with 19 Hotspots Remaining

Forest and land fires in West Kalimantan have scorched 48,536 hectares as of 14 September 2026, combining SiPongi satellite data and BNPB field measurements. Some 19 hotspots remain, whilst poor visibility has grounded firefighting helicopters, including a Japanese CH-47 Chinook. BNPB is urging residents in affected areas to wear masks as air quality deteriorates across several provinces.

KB Bank Syariah Introduces SIROQIB for Mosque Financial Management

KB Bank Syariah, together with the At-Tanwir Mosque of Muhammadiyah's Central Leadership, has introduced SIROQIB, a digital recording system designed to make mosque financial management more systematic and transparent. Forty mosque administrators from the Muhammadiyah environment took part in the financial literacy programme, which also featured the symbolic handover of charity boxes and QRIS. The initiative is expected to be extended to other Muhammadiyah mosques.

Strengthening Retirement Readiness Through Empowerment and Education

PT Asabri (Persero) has launched a series of education and empowerment programmes under Pension Fund Month 2026, initiated by the Financial Services Authority (OJK), to prepare members for a healthy and prosperous retirement. Ministers and regulators emphasised the importance of early retirement planning as Indonesia's demographic structure shifts towards an ageing population. Total pension industry assets reached Rp1,699.99 trillion in July 2026, growing 6.70% year-on-year.

Walhi: Acute Respiratory Infections Rife in Kalimantan, Government Masks Fail to Meet Standards

WALHI has criticised the government's distribution of face masks in Kalimantan, saying they do not meet standards such as N95 and offer no real protection against hazardous smoke from forest and land fires. Acute respiratory infection cases have surged across the region, with West Kalimantan recording 165,727 cases between January and 22 August, while health centres fail to provide round-the-clock services.

5kg of Crystal Meth Hidden in Spare Wheel Seized from Jakarta-Surabaya-Lombok Network

A joint operation by National Police criminal investigators, Customs and Surabaya Detention Centre foiled an attempt to smuggle 5kg of crystal methamphetamine hidden in a car's spare wheel at Tanjung Perak Port, East Java. The courier, Sayed Zuwanda, was apprehended on 10 September 2026, and investigations revealed the network was allegedly controlled by Andreansyah, a detainee at the Surabaya facility, who in turn answered to a wanted figure named Haykal. The detention centre has launched internal raids and pledged zero tolerance for drug trafficking within its walls.

Legal practitioner confident new Criminal Code and Criminal Procedure Code will optimise legal assistance

Lawyer Mohamad Ali Nurdin believes the newly enacted Criminal Code (KUHP) and Criminal Procedure Code (KUHAP) will enhance advocates' ability to assist clients, citing eleven special privileges for lawyers including early representation and expanded pre-trial remedies. He noted the codes mark a shift from retributive to restorative justice, replace Dutch colonial law, and strengthen human rights protections. He urged continued public socialisation of the new laws alongside Peradi.

Honor Play 11 debuts with 8,300 mAh battery and 120Hz display

Honor has officially launched the Play 11 in China, an affordable smartphone featuring a 6.8-inch 120Hz display and a massive 8,300 mAh battery with 45W fast charging. The device is powered by a Snapdragon 4 Gen 4 chipset and is priced from 1,399 yuan (around Rp3.6 million).

Indonesia's rice supply secure through June 2027: Minister

Agriculture Minister Amran Sulaiman has assured that Indonesia's rice supply is secure through June 2027, with national availability of roughly 25–26 million metric tons comprising standing crops, government reserves managed by Bulog, and existing stocks. He credited proactive measures under President Prabowo, including irrigation construction and new paddy field development, noting that Indonesia has even begun exporting rice to Malaysia and sending aid to Palestine.

AiMOGA Introduces Security and Nurse Robots in Europe

AiMOGA Robotics unveiled its Intelligent Security Robot and Robotic Nurse to the European market at IFA 2026 in Berlin. The company, a strategic partner of Chery, said it has shipped more than 3,000 robots across over 60 countries and is exploring localised applications with prospective European partners.

Tourism Minister says YE concert could bring economic benefits

Tourism Minister Widiyanti Putri Wardhana said the YE Live in Jakarta 2026 concert, featuring the American artist formerly known as Kanye West, could generate significant economic benefits through ticket sales, vendor activity and job creation. Indonesia is the only Southeast Asian stop on the tour. The ministry supported 105 events between January and July 2026, involving more than 11,000 MSMEs and generating around Rp1.09 trillion in economic circulation.

Deputy Minister: Red and White Village Cooperatives prepared as fishery product distribution hubs

The Ministry of Cooperatives is positioning Red and White Village/Neighbourhood Cooperatives (KDKMP) as distribution centres for fishery products under the Red and White Fishermen's Village programme. Deputy Minister Farida Farichah said the model aims to build an integrated supply chain so catches can be processed into value-added products rather than sold raw.

MP Laments Private Sector Reaps Greater Profits from Indonesia's Natural Resources

Yulian Gunhar, a member of the House of Representatives' Commission XII, has criticised the management of Indonesia's natural resources, saying private firms derive more benefit than the state despite the constitutional mandate of Article 33. He called for deeper evaluation of each mining industry entity under MIND ID and a reduced role for private players. He nonetheless reaffirmed support for MIND ID as a strategic partner in fulfilling the constitutional mandate.

PT Ghim Li Indonesia Halts Production, 1,025 Workers in Batam Demand Wages

Production at PT Ghim Li Indonesia, a garment manufacturer in Batam producing for brands such as Adidas, has halted since early August 2026, leaving 1,025 workers without pay. Senior management reportedly left Batam without explanation, and the workers' union is urging government mediation and a mandatory guarantee deposit scheme for labour-intensive firms.

Biodiversity Monitoring Expanded Amid Nickel Mining Activity in Halmahera

PT Weda Bay Nickel, in partnership with Khairun University, has expanded biodiversity monitoring in Halmahera, North Maluku, from six points to 40, amid the region's high levels of endemism within the Wallacea zone. The research has verified around 249 plant species and identified numerous protected fauna, including the endemic Boki Mekot spiny rat, with the data forming the basis of the company's Biodiversity Action Plan and habitat management programmes.

Government Fast-Tracks Construction of 5,000 Red and White Fishing Villages by 2029

The Indonesian government is accelerating the construction of 5,000 Red and White Fishing Villages (KNMP) by 2029 as part of efforts to improve coastal welfare. Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan said the programme targets a Fishermen's Exchange Value of 120 by 2027 and wider market access for fishing communities. Some 65 sites are already operational, with 1,269 locations targeted for construction this year alone.

Home Affairs Minister Stresses Agrarian Reform to Realise Social Justice

Home Affairs Minister Muhammad Tito Karnavian has asserted that the agrarian reform programme must be directed towards achieving social justice, in line with Article 33 of the 1945 Constitution. Speaking at a working meeting with Commission II of the House of Representatives, he highlighted the need to reclaim idle land for redistribution to the people and proposed a compensation scheme for regions that preserve farmland.

Analyst: Battery industry extends the national mineral value chain

Mohammad Faisal of CORE Indonesia says the battery industry in Morowali and North Morowali has shifted the local economic structure, with more than 75 per cent of the economy now driven by industry rather than primary sectors such as mining and agriculture. Indonesia Battery Corporation chief Aditya Farhan Arif adds that a sovereign domestic battery industry could extend downstreaming benefits to other minerals, notably aluminium and copper.

Millions affected as floods strike India's Bihar

Flooding in India's eastern Bihar state has affected nearly five million people, with all seven of the state's key rivers above danger level following heavy rain. Authorities have opened 13 relief camps, deployed nearly 1,800 boats and transferred 7,000 rupees each to more than 827,000 flood-affected families. Local media reported around 20 deaths and widespread inundation of farmland in the flood-prone state downstream from Nepal.

GCC Secretary-General Jasem Albudaiwi Condemns Houthi Attacks on Saudi Arabia

GCC Secretary-General Jasem Albudaiwi has issued a strong condemnation of repeated Houthi militia attacks from Yemen targeting civilian infrastructure and populations in Saudi Arabia, describing them as a dangerous criminal escalation. He reaffirmed the GCC's full solidarity with Saudi Arabia and its support for all defensive measures to protect national security and vital assets.

Man Found Dead in Rented Room in Mampang Prapatan, South Jakarta

A 50-year-old man was found dead on the second floor of a rented house on Jalan Kemang Utara, Mampang Prapatan, South Jakarta, on 15 September 2026. Police suspect he died of illness, as no signs of violence were found on his body and medicines were discovered near the corpse. Neighbours had reported a foul smell emanating from the property the day before.

A Year Without Certainty, Sherly Tjoanda Criticises Slow Land Redistribution

North Maluku Governor Sherly Tjoanda has criticised the central government's year-long failure to resolve land legality and redistribution issues in her province, warning that 60 per cent of residents depend on agriculture. Of 36,200 hectares of potential agrarian reform land, only 32 per cent has been certified, and a verified 16,000-hectare redistribution proposal submitted in late 2022 remains unexecuted. She called for time-bound mechanisms in the planned National Agrarian Reform Agency to break permitting deadlocks.

Kudus Regency taps Bank Jateng CSR funds to boost MSMEs

The Kudus Regency Government in Central Java has received Rp149 million in corporate social responsibility (CSR) funds from Bank Jateng Kudus to strengthen local micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and the creative economy. The funds, channelled through the regional crafts council Dekranasda Kudus, will finance training and marketing programmes for selected MSMEs, with a broader Rp1 billion CSR allocation earmarked for various sectors across the regency.

Victim Forgives Suspect, Assault Case in Morowali Dropped

The Central Sulawesi High Prosecutors' Office has approved the termination of an assault prosecution in Morowali Regency through restorative justice after the suspect and victim reached a settlement. The case stemmed from a dispute between children in Labota Village that escalated, leaving the victim with minor chest injuries. The case met the legal requirements under the new Criminal Procedure Code, including the victim's recovery and refusal to seek compensation.

Stellantis wants to sell Canadian plant, sparking union anger

Contract negotiations between Stellantis and Canadian union Unifor have reached a deadlock after the automaker revealed it is seriously considering closing and selling its Brampton Assembly Plant to a third party. Unifor strongly opposes the move, raising the prospect of industrial action, as the current contract expires on 20 September 2026.

KPK announces identities of eight suspects from ATR/BPN sting operation

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has named eight suspects following a sting operation at the Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency (ATR/BPN). They include senior land agency officials, a Golkar party figure, a former regent, and the president director of PT Summarecon Agung Tbk, in a case allegedly linked to building use rights (HGB) for Summarecon in Bogor Regency, West Java. All eight have been detained for the first 20 days.

Sailing to Komodo and Padar Islands Suspended until 15 September Due to Bad Weather

The Labuan Bajo Class III Harbourmaster and Port Authority Office (KSOP) in East Nusa Tenggara has temporarily closed sea access to Komodo and Padar Islands from 13–15 September following warnings of waves up to 1.9 metres and strong winds. KSOP also identified ten dangerous maritime zones to be avoided, and reopening will depend on daily weather monitoring and recommendations from the Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG).

BNPB: Thousands of Hectares of Land Still Burning Across Kalimantan, Some Threatening IKN

The National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) reports tens of thousands of hectares of land remain burnt across four Kalimantan provinces, with fires near the new capital Nusantara (IKN) of particular concern. Thousands of personnel and numerous helicopters have been deployed, but poor visibility and the absence of rain have hampered firefighting and weather modification operations.

Scientists Stunned to Find Bird Feathers in Dinosaur Droppings

Scientists have discovered fossilised dinosaur droppings dating from the Cretaceous period containing identifiable bird feathers. The find provides the first direct evidence that carnivorous dinosaurs regularly preyed on ancient birds, and suggests they swallowed prey in large chunks without chewing. The discovery also reinforces the idea that birds coexisted with dinosaurs for a very long time, serving as prey rather than masters of the skies.

KPK Reveals Case Details of Bribery Allegations Ensnaring Four Confidants of Nusron Wahid

The KPK has named eight suspects in an alleged bribery case concerning the lifting of a block on building-use rights (HGB) for Summarecon land in Bogor Regency, West Java, four of whom are confidants of Minister of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning Nusron Wahid. Investigators allege that bribes totalling billions of rupiah were channelled through the minister's intermediaries to land agency officials. The minister has yet to respond to requests for comment.

Poor Visibility Means Japanese Helicopters Not Yet Operational in Fighting Forest and Land Fires

Japan's Chinook helicopters have arrived in West Kalimantan to help tackle forest and land fires but cannot yet fly due to visibility below one kilometre. BNPB says the Japanese side will begin operations once visibility improves to between 3,500 and 5,000 metres.

Shell's Grease Plant in Marunda Begins Operations, Targets Domestic Industrial Demand

Shell Indonesia has inaugurated its first grease manufacturing facility in Marunda, Bekasi, with an annual capacity of up to 12 kilotonnes. Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita welcomed the plant as a boost to Indonesia's manufacturing base, expressing hope that production could eventually serve regional and international markets.

UI expert presents mental health solutions for shipwreck victims

Professor Herni Susanti of the University of Indonesia has introduced a Low Intensity Psychological Intervention (LIPI) to support the mental health of shipwreck survivors and bereaved families. The community-based approach targets medium-term recovery and can be delivered by trained local health workers, with trials across 12 sites in Java involving more than 1,500 patients showing high participation rates.

Indonesian National Police Vow Swift Response to Alleged Fortified Rice Fraud

The Indonesian National Police (Polri) have pledged a firm, measured legal response to findings that fortified rice products failed to meet food safety and quality standards. Police allege suspected fraud under the Criminal Code and Consumer Protection Law, with potential consumer losses estimated at around Rp89 trillion. Agriculture Minister Amran Sulaiman has ordered the products withdrawn, licences revoked, and responsible parties prosecuted.

Trump Seeks Halt to Energy Attacks by Both Russia, Ukraine

US President Donald Trump claimed a diplomatic breakthrough, asserting that both Ukraine and Russia had agreed to stop attacking each other's energy targets, though Kyiv responded cautiously and Moscow remained silent. Zelenskyy said Ukraine was open to such an accord ahead of winter but demanded assurances that Russia would genuinely comply, sceptical that Moscow might only seek temporary relief for its fuel prices before elections. The claim comes as oil prices, pushed higher by the war, continue to weigh on global markets.

Number of NTT quake evacuees decline significantly to 46,461: BNPB

The number of people displaced by the magnitude-7.7 Flores earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara has fallen from over 150,000 to 46,461, according to BNPB, reflecting progress in emergency response and recovery efforts. Authorities are validating data on 103,427 damaged housing units and coordinating with Dukcapil and BPS to target repair assistance accurately. The BMKG has recorded 15,722 aftershocks since the August 15 quake, though their frequency is now in a declining decay phase.

South Korea's export volume maintains double-digit growth

South Korea's export volume index surged 25.9 per cent year-on-year in August, extending a ten-month streak of increases driven largely by demand for memory chips and SSDs used in AI infrastructure. The export value index jumped 75.8 per cent on rising chip prices, while the net terms of trade index rose 27.1 per cent — the highest since the Bank of Korea began compiling the data in 1988.

Rudy Mas'ud Suspends Schools in East Kalimantan Due to Forest Fires, Free Nutritious Meals Programme Continues

East Kalimantan Governor Rudy Mas'ud has suspended in-person schooling as a precaution amid lingering smoke from forest and land fires, though the situation is said to be under control. The Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme will remain a priority despite the school closures. Batam has also moved to home-based learning after air quality reached unhealthy levels.

KPK Names Fahd A Rafiq and Three Other Suspects as Confidants of Minister Nusron

The KPK has named eight suspects in a bribery case surrounding building use rights (HGB) processing in Bogor Regency, including Summarecon Agung's chief executive. Four of the suspects, among them Fahd A Rafiq, are described as confidants of ATR/BPN Minister Nusron Wahid. Prosecutors allege Rp 1.5 billion was paid to lift a block on Summarecon's land certificates, with Rp 200 million passed on to the Bogor land office head.

Saudi Arabia Issues Brief Warning of Attack Threats in Mecca and Jeddah

Saudi Arabia briefly issued a warning of potential attacks targeting Mecca, Jeddah and Taif amid a surge in assaults claimed by the Iran-backed Houthi group. It marked the first such warning for the Mecca region since the latest Middle East conflict began, following ballistic missile and drone attacks from Yemen that reportedly injured 13 people.

Semesta Network: Creative agencies are no longer just about content production

Semesta Network director M Hafidullah says creative agencies have expanded far beyond content production and social media campaigns, spanning an ecosystem of advertising, digital and media agencies. Speaking at an event hosted by the NTB Tourism and Creative Economy Office, he urged creative players in West Nusa Tenggara to specialise and collaborate, noting the creative economy now covers 21 subsectors. He also shared his firm's experience handling major clients such as Pertamina, BSI and the Ministry of Public Works and Housing.

Rembang adopts PM-AAS planting method to boost rice productivity

Rembang Regency in Central Java has begun trialling the Pertanian Modern Advanced Agricultural System (PM-AAS), a dense-planting rice method adapted from Arkansas, USA, which can raise plant populations three to fourfold. Officials project yields could rise from 7 to around 10 tonnes per hectare, with the regency targeting 2,070 hectares and seeking to expand to 3,200 hectares.

Apindo Hopes Suahasil Will Enhance Fiscal Credibility and Sustainability

Indonesia's business community hopes the change of finance minister will not abruptly alter fiscal policy direction, with Apindo Chairman Shinta Kamdani stressing policy predictability to maintain business and investor confidence. Economist Wijayanto Samirin welcomed Suahasil Nazara's appointment but warned that legal and regulatory uncertainty is driving premature deindustrialisation, urging a review of overly optimistic 2027 budget assumptions.

Woman Who Sniffed Mothballs Boards KRL Again, Promptly Removed by Officers

A female passenger who previously went viral for angrily sniffing mothballs on a Jakarta commuter train boarded a KRL service again despite being blacklisted, and was swiftly evacuated by security officers at Cawang Station. KAI Commuter said the rapid response was enabled by CCTV analytics monitoring and reports from fellow passengers. The company has urged all commuters to follow regulations and report disturbances through official channels.

Once Halted, Indonesia's Giant Copper Smelter Is Back in Operation

PT Freeport Indonesia's second copper smelter at JIIPE in Gresik, East Java, has resumed operations after a landslide at the underground mine in September 2025 disrupted concentrate supply. Concentrate feeding restarted in August 2026 and the smelter produced around 5,000 tonnes of copper cathode in September. The US$4.2 billion facility is the world's largest single-line copper smelter and, together with PT Smelting, will produce around 1 million tonnes of copper cathode annually.

14 Sucrose Wallpaper Engine Features You Should Know

Sucrose Wallpaper Engine is a Windows application that enables dynamic and interactive desktop wallpapers, including animations, videos and visual effects. It offers extensive customisation options, from performance settings and multi-monitor support to audio behaviour controls. The app suits Windows users seeking a more lively and personalised desktop experience.

Fantastic! 38 Land Assets Worth Rp846 Billion Seized by the Attorney General's Office in the Febrie Adriansyah Case

The Attorney General's Office's Team 9 has seized 38 land and building assets valued at an estimated Rp846 billion linked to the case involving former Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah. Investigators also secured 37 company documents and around 1,150 other documents, alongside Rp5 billion returned by witness Ferry Boboho in connection with alleged extortion of tycoon Tan Kian. The investigation is now considered complete and awaits the prosecutor's P-21 declaration.

Home Affairs Minister Affirms Agrarian Reform Is for the People's Interest

Home Affairs Minister Muhammad Tito Karnavian has stressed that agrarian reform must be directed towards justice and ensuring land management benefits the public, in line with Article 33 of the 1945 Constitution. Speaking to Commission II of the House of Representatives, he highlighted the problem of idle land under HGU and HGB permits that should be reclaimed by the state and redistributed, while also noting the need to balance farmland protection with investment needs.

Land Fire in Ciumbuleuit, Bandung: Blaze Erupts from Rubbish Heap

A fire engulfed roughly 2.2 hectares of land dominated by waste and material piles in Cihanja, Ciumbuleuit, Bandung, West Java. Firefighters needed around 15 hours to bring the main blaze under control, with about 40,000 litres of water used amid hazards including steep terrain and suspected methane gas. The Bandung city government plans to seal the site and investigate suspected illegal waste dumping.

Residents Recount Hearing Explosions Before Fire Raged

A building storing decorative equipment and a workshop on Jalan Siulan, East Denpasar, caught fire after fireworks stored inside exploded. Two people suffered burns, one of whom was taken to hospital, and eight fire engines were deployed to bring the blaze under control in roughly two hours. Police are still investigating the cause of the fire.

Lenient Sentences for Corrupt Officials and Permissive Political Parties Keep Corruption Repeating

Corruption eradication in Indonesia is deemed far from ideal, with average prison sentences for graft cases of only around three years, which critics say fails to deter offenders. Law lecturer Herdiansyah Hamzah also blamed political parties for failing to screen out problematic figures, following a KPK sting operation that netted 17 people including senior land agency officials, a Golkar party figure, and a property company president director.

Simeulue Marine and Fisheries Office reports rampant fish bombing to Maritime Affairs Ministry

The Simeulue Regency Marine and Fisheries Office in Aceh has reported widespread blast fishing in local waters to the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries. Monitoring teams have been dispatched to the island, while local officials urge communities and the traditional Panglima Laot to help patrol against the destructive practice.

Apindo Hopes New Finance Minister Suahasil Maintains Fiscal Credibility and Policy Certainty

Indonesian business association Apindo, through chairperson Shinta Kamdani, hopes the appointment of Suahasil Nazara as Finance Minister will preserve fiscal credibility and policy predictability so that investor and business confidence is maintained. Economist Wijayanto Samirin welcomed the change but warned that overly optimistic 2027 State Budget assumptions may need revision, and urged an end to aggressive tax collection practices that harm the investment climate. He also cautioned that legal and regulatory uncertainty is driving premature deindustrialisation, leaving Indonesia reliant on commodity exports.

From Director-General of ATR to Summarecon President Director: The Full List of 8 Suspects in the HGB Bribery Sting

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has named eight suspects following a sting operation into bribery over building-use rights (HGB) at the Bogor Regency National Land Agency office. The suspects include the Director-General for Land and Spatial Control at the ATR/BPN Ministry and the President Director of property developer Summarecon, with several said to be confidants of Minister Nusron Wahid.

Cirebon Resident Suspected Victim of KM Virgo Transport 8, Family Awaits News from Basarnas

Yaya Carya, 58, from Sigong village in Cirebon, is feared to be among the victims of the sinking of KM Virgo Transport 8 in the Java Sea, with his name appearing on the ship's official manifest. His family only learned of his presence aboard from his work foreman, not from the port authorities or shipping company. As of 15 September, search and rescue teams had yet to locate him.

To Safeguard Food Security, Ahmad Luthfi Strengthens Protection of Rice Paddy Land in Central Java

Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi has reaffirmed his commitment to protecting designated rice paddy land (LSD) to maintain food productivity and support national food security. Speaking at a parliamentary hearing with Commission II of the House of Representatives, he proposed incentives for regencies and cities that meet the 87% protected farmland (LP2B) target, and urged faster certification so that land available for investment can be clearly identified.

Four-Hour Meeting with House of Representatives, MIND ID Seeks Legal Protection

Commission XII of the Indonesian House of Representatives held a nearly four-hour hearing with MIND ID and the chief executives of its six mining subholdings, including Freeport Indonesia, Vale Indonesia, Antam, Bukit Asam, Inalum and Timah. MIND ID chief Maroef Sjamsoeddin asked legislators for a 'red carpet' of legal protection, with the meeting concluding in five key points covering mining governance, tax holidays for new projects, coal DMO certainty, gold trade policy and tin downstreaming.

Eighth day of SAR operation still fruitless despite reaching 500 metres from Anak Krakatau

The joint SAR operation on its eighth day failed to find the missing speedboat Arupadhatu 1, which was carrying eight people including five journalists, despite deploying vessels to within 500 metres of Mount Anak Krakatau in the Sunda Strait. The Head of the Banten SAR Office, Al Amrad, said sightings circulated on social media were checked but yielded nothing. The search, covering sectors including waters off Enggano, Bengkulu and Lampung, will resume on Wednesday with at least 20 vessels.

Bintan Police Distribute 1,000 Masks to Motorists Affected by Haze

Bintan Police Resort distributed 1,000 masks to road users amid hazardous haze affecting the region, while also advising residents to limit outdoor exposure and drive cautiously. Bintan Regent Roby Kurniawan separately announced that students from early childhood to junior high level would study from home for three days due to the poor air conditions.

Signs of Dyslexia in Children That Parents and Teachers Must Recognise

A paediatric development specialist has outlined the key signs of dyslexia, a specific learning disorder affecting reading, which parents and teachers can identify from primary school age. Dr Farid Agung Rahmadi warned that unaddressed dyslexia can erode children's self-esteem and, if prolonged, lead to anxiety and depression.

Shanghai Electric Records 16.6% Revenue Growth in H1-2026, New Order Value Reaches RMB 100.39 Billion

Shanghai Electric reported interim results with operating revenue of RMB 63.332 billion (USD 9.17 billion), up 16.6% year-on-year, and net profit attributable to shareholders of RMB 970 million, up 18.2%. New orders reached RMB 100.39 billion, driven by growth in wind power, energy storage and integrated services. The company is expanding overseas with projects in Dubai, Finland and the United Kingdom, while advancing green energy and industrial AI technologies.

Home Affairs Minister Tito Steps In Over Sound Horeg Controversy

Interior Minister Tito Karnavian has called for written regulations governing the sound horeg phenomenon, which continues to spark public controversy. He urged cross-sectoral coordination, involving the Health Ministry, the Communications Ministry and the National Police, noting reports that excessive decibel levels may harm health. His remarks followed a viral controversy over a Simbang Kulon Night Carnival performance featuring frightening costumes and symbols resembling alleged satanic or occult imagery.

Measurable and Accountable Performance is the Key to Achieving Organisational Goals

The Home Affairs Ministry's Domestic Policy Strategy Agency (BSKDN) has been ranked second in the 2026 Self-Assessment Monitoring and Evaluation of Public Service Providers (PEKPPP Mandiri) within the ministry. Its head, Yusharto Huntoyungo, said the award should serve as momentum for continuous evaluation and improvement rather than merely as recognition.

Rumour of Samsung's Second-Generation Tri-Fold Phone, Reportedly Launching in 2027

Samsung is rumoured to be developing a second-generation tri-fold smartphone expected to launch in 2027, as it defends its innovation lead against Chinese manufacturers. The device is expected to offer a wider display of around 10 inches whilst remaining compact when folded. Samsung has not officially confirmed the naming or release date, and details on pricing and availability in Indonesia remain unknown.

Satellite Images Reveal Devastation of Saudi Oil Pipeline Amid Crisis Alert

Satellite imagery shows the destruction of Saudi Arabia's East-West oil pipeline following a drone strike launched from within Iraqi territory. US President Donald Trump quickly blamed Iran-backed proxy groups in Iraq, an accusation Tehran firmly denied. According to Capital Economics, the closure of the pipeline, which carries Saudi crude to the Red Sea port of Yanbu, could cut global oil supply by up to 4%.

Bali Entrepreneurs Hope New Finance Minister Suahasil Will Deliver Certainty and More Measurable Business Risks

The head of HIPMI Bali has welcomed President Prabowo Subianto's decision to replace the finance minister, saying it shows the government is listening to market concerns. Economists say the appointment of Suahasil Nazara could serve as positive momentum to strengthen fiscal policy, provided the state budget is consolidated and spending is made more productive. Key success indicators for the new minister's first 100 days include financial market stability, a controlled budget deficit and improved business confidence.

BNPB: Forest and Land Fires Still Affect South Sumatra, Jambi, and Riau

The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) reported on 15 September that forest and land fires continue to burn in South Sumatra, Jambi, and Riau, with tens of thousands of hectares affected. Firefighting operations combining ground and air units have extinguished large areas, though dry weather has hampered cloud-seeding operations in South Sumatra and Jambi. BNPB stresses that success depends on close synergy between the agency, regional authorities, the military, police, and volunteers.

How to Build Self-Confidence in Children with Dyslexia

Academic difficulties faced by children with dyslexia reflect learning challenges rather than intellectual ability, according to the Indonesian Paediatric Society (IDAI). Farid Agung Rahmadi stressed that supportive environments at home and school, alongside inclusive education and properly trained teachers, are essential to protecting these children's self-confidence.

KM Virgo Capsizes in the Java Sea, Brigjen Pol. Hastry Deploys Indonesia's DVI Team to Identify Victims

The cargo-passenger vessel KM Virgo Transport 8 capsized in the Masalembo waters of the Java Sea, leaving six dead and 129 missing, whilst 108 survivors were evacuated to Trisakti Port in Banjarmasin. Brigjen Sumy Hastry Purwanti, head of the Police Medical Bureau, has deployed Disaster Victim Identification (DVI) teams across regional police commands to work with Basarnas and victims' families. She cautioned that bodies recovered from water can still be identified provided decomposition has not progressed beyond roughly five days.

Irrigation Water Overflows onto Road in Tabanan, Businesses Feel the Impact

Irrigation water from the Subak Pala channel has overflowed onto Jalan Jepun in Dauh Peken Village, Tabanan, flooding the road and disrupting local businesses for several days. Officials from the Tabanan Public Works and Spatial Planning Agency are working to clear blockages caused largely by household waste, with the village head urging residents to stop dumping rubbish into waterways and calling for the channel's normalisation to proceed this year.

Vale drives downstreaming through multi-regional growth - BCA Sekuritas

PT Vale Indonesia (INCO) is expanding from a single operation to three regional operations through its Integrated Growth Projects in Bahodopi, Pomalaa and Sorowako, with combined investments of around US$7.2 billion. The projects aim to strengthen nickel downstreaming using High Pressure Acid Leach (HPAL) technology and support the battery materials supply chain. Vale's leadership remains upbeat on long-term nickel demand driven by AI, robotics, data centres and eVTOL, despite short-term geopolitical and pricing headwinds.

Record! US Bond Yield Breaks 5%, Highest in 19 Years

The yield on the 10-year US Treasury has surged past 5% for the first time since 2007, sending borrowing costs higher for governments and corporations worldwide. The rise, driven by inflation fears, surging oil prices above US$100 a barrel and central banks abandoning forward guidance, has rippled across global bond markets, with Japanese, German, French and British yields also hitting multi-year highs.

Pramono proud Jakarta chosen as venue for YE concert

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has expressed pride that the capital will host the YE Live in Jakarta 2026 concert at the Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium on 24 October 2026, noting that the largest number of overseas ticket buyers come from Australia. The provincial government is coordinating preparations, particularly as the concert coincides with the Jakarta Running Festival involving 35,000 participants.

Aceh Provincial Police Assist with Forest and Land Fire Case in Aceh Singkil

The Special Criminal Investigation Directorate of the Aceh Provincial Police has assisted in handling a forest and land fire case on the HGU land of PT Nafasindo in Aceh Singkil Regency. Investigators are verifying field evidence, with early witness accounts suggesting the fire originated from within the plantation rather than its edges.

Agriculture Ministry Partners with Industry to Combat Illegal Pesticides, Threatens to Revoke Licences of Rogue Producers

The Ministry of Agriculture is revising its ministerial regulation on fertiliser and pesticide oversight to curb the sale of illegal and counterfeit pesticides, particularly on e-commerce platforms. The government has distributed around 5.9 million litres of pesticide buffer stock to farmer groups nationwide and has warned that the distribution licences of non-compliant producers will be revoked.

On the Simbang Kulon Night Carnival 2026, Tito: Public Order Is Number One

Minister of Home Affairs Tito Karnavian has stressed that community activities must not disrupt public order or national unity, following controversy over a carnival in Pekalongan Regency, Central Java. He cited Law No. 9 of 1998 on freedom of expression and said regional authorities and security forces should monitor and advise organisers. The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) separately urged continuous education on the limits of artistic expression in religious celebrations.

West Jakarta City Government Dismantles Stall Selling Hard Drugs in Palmerah

The West Jakarta municipal government, through the Kota Bambu Selatan urban village apparatus, dismantled an illegal hard drug stall on Jalan K. S. Tubun in Palmerah following public complaints, including from local schools. West Jakarta Mayor Iin Mutmainnah said the operation was part of efforts to keep the drug trade away from residents and schoolchildren. Authorities plan routine patrols to prevent the activity from re-emerging.

Forest Fires Still Burning, 319 Hectares of Land in IKN Affected

Forest and land fires continue to rage across Indonesia, with 319 hectares of land still burning in the new capital Nusantara (IKN) area in Penajam Paser Utara, East Kalimantan, according to BNPB data. Total burnt land across six priority provinces has exceeded 100,000 hectares, with West Kalimantan the worst affected at over 48,500 hectares.

BNPB Reveals These Regions Have the Highest Spread of Pollutants from Forest and Land Fires

Indonesia's disaster agency BNPB says pollutant concentrations from ongoing forest and land fires are most intense in West, Central and South Kalimantan, with worsening conditions forecast. West Kalimantan has recorded the largest burnt area at around 48,535 hectares, and wind patterns threaten to carry transboundary haze to Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei. Air quality in several Kalimantan districts has reached hazardous levels, with Murung Raya and Barito Selatan posting ISPU readings above 900.

US Supreme Court blocks new postal voting rules

The US Supreme Court has upheld a lower court ruling suspending new postal voting requirements introduced by the government. The rules would have required states to submit voter lists to the US Postal Service for address verification before ballots could be mailed.

Purbaya Rates His Year as Finance Minister 'Fairly Good'

Outgoing Indonesian Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa assessed his roughly one-year tenure as decent, citing the country's economic growth rising from below 5 percent to above 5 percent during his term. He passed the post to Suahasil Nazara, who was sworn in as the third finance minister under President Prabowo Subianto, saying his successor needed no special advice given his experience and expertise.

Antam proposes all gold sellers be required to report data to the Tax Office

Antam's chief executive Untung Budiharto has proposed that all gold traders, not only Antam, be obliged to report gold and silver sales data to the Directorate General of Taxes, to ensure fair competition and better governance of the national gold trade. The company supports the new reporting regulation but warns it could push consumers towards unregulated channels. Antam also reported a 34.4 per cent rise in net profit to Rp6.91 trillion for the first half of 2026.

DPR Budget Committee Agrees Rp23 Trillion Allocation for PPPK Salaries

The DPR's Budget Committee (Banggar) and the government have agreed to allocate Rp23 trillion in the 2027 draft state budget to cover the salaries of contract-based government employees (PPPK). The move shifts responsibility for PPPK pay, mostly teachers and education staff previously funded by regional budgets, to the central government. The decision is expected to ease the burden on regional budgets and provide job security for PPPK workers.

Adhi Karya Chief Apologises, Pledges to Resolve LRT City Problem

Adhi Karya President Director Moeharmein Zein Chaniago has apologised for the stalled LRT City project, developed by subsidiary PT Adhi Commuter Properti (ADCP). The commitment follows a meeting with consumers, the BUMN Regulatory Agency, and the Ministry of Housing, which have set a deadline of 1 October 2026 to inventory affected buyers.

Deputy Minister of Agrarian Affairs Studies BRAN Proposal in Agrarian Reform Bill, Hopes to Address Inequality

The government and the House of Representatives (DPR) are still studying the proposed establishment of a National Agrarian Reform Agency (BRAN) under the Agrarian Reform Bill. Deputy Minister of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning Ossy Dermawan said the body is expected to resolve agrarian conflicts and land ownership inequality. Commission II of the DPR has also pushed for governors to serve as BRAN heads at the provincial level.

Sjamsudin Noor Air Base serves as Virgo evacuation point

Four bodies recovered from the KM Virgo Transport 8 sinking were evacuated by helicopter to Sjamsudin Noor Air Base in Banjarbaru on the third day of search-and-rescue operations in the Java Sea. The victims, who had been aboard the tugboat KM TB TCB supporting the operation, were transported to Bhayangkara Hospital in Banjarmasin, where police DVI teams will conduct identification. The air base continues to play a key role in receiving and evacuating victims from the accident site.

China Says America Is Merely Bluffing, Alleges Hidden Motives

The Chinese government has firmly rejected calls by major US tech leaders to slow the pace of artificial intelligence development, describing them as scaremongering aimed at preserving American dominance. Beijing pledged instead to accelerate its AI development, while President Donald Trump also rejected any slowdown, insisting the US must maintain its lead. The dispute has rattled technology shares, with SoftBank falling as much as 10 per cent in Japan.

BNPB: Japanese Helicopter in West Kalimantan, But Not Yet Operating Due to Low Visibility

Indonesia's disaster management agency BNPB reports that a Japanese-provided Chinook helicopter has arrived in West Kalimantan to help fight forest and land fires, but cannot operate because visibility remains below the required 3.5 km. New fire spots have emerged across Kalimantan and Sumatra provinces, with nearly 15,000 ground task force personnel deployed alongside water bombing and weather modification operations.

Riau smallholder palm oil fresh fruit bunch price falls to Rp3,912.24 per kilogram

The price of fresh fruit bunches (TBS) from independent smallholder oil palm farmers in Riau Province has edged down 0.79 per cent to Rp3,912.24 per kilogram for the 16–22 September period. The decline was driven by a fall in crude palm oil (CPO) prices, although kernel prices rose. Plasma scheme farmers also saw their purchase price slip to Rp3,976.56 per kg.

Safeguarding Food Security, Central Java Governor Tightens Paddy Field Protection

Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi has called for stricter protection of agricultural land to prevent paddy fields from being converted, noting the province contributed 15.6% of national dry unhusked rice output in 2025. Speaking at a parliamentary hearing, he asked the central government to provide incentives for regencies and cities that have met the 87% sustainable food farmland (LP2B) target, and to delegate risk-based licensing to provinces to speed up permits for industrial zones.

Five Signs of Dyslexia in Children Learning to Read That Must Be Watched

Parents and teachers are being urged to stay alert for signs of dyslexia as children begin school and learn to read, according to paediatric development specialist Farid Agung Rahmadi. Speaking at an Indonesian Paediatric Society (IDAI) webinar, he stressed that early detection is crucial to prevent learning difficulties from persisting into adulthood.

Video: Using EVs Can Boost Business Profits, VinFast Boss Reveals the Calculations

VinFast Southeast Asia CEO Antonio Zara has highlighted the advantages of electric vehicle adoption for improving efficiency, cutting costs and supporting Indonesia's energy transition. He pointed to the seven-seat MPV 7, priced from around Rp330 million with two years of free charging, as offering significant savings over conventional commercial vehicles. Analysts note that commercial EVs, including electric taxis such as VinFast-backed Green SM, are a growth segment, though wider adoption depends on charging infrastructure.

Legal Status of Ride-Hailing Drivers Still Debated, Here's What the Government Must Consider

The legal status of online motorcycle taxi (ojol) drivers remains contested as driver groups hold differing aspirations, with the Confederation of Ojol Unions of South Sulawesi (KSOS) insisting drivers should be classified as independent workers. Academic Rizal Pauzi of Hasanuddin University cautions the government against assuming a single voice represents all drivers, urging a new policy design suited to the platform economy. Key considerations include social security, workplace safety, tariff transparency and dispute resolution mechanisms.

Forestry Minister: Five regional governments in South Sumatra receive forest fire assistance

Minister of Forestry Raja Juli Antoni announced that five regional governments in South Sumatra have received presidential assistance for forest and land fire mitigation, with the provincial government receiving Rp30 billion. He warned that despite a declining trend in fire hotspots, the threat persists due to dry El Nino conditions potentially lasting until October or November.

Ministry of Industry: Boosting domestic grease production strengthens supporting industries

The Ministry of Industry has inaugurated Shell's Grease Manufacturing Plant in Marunda, Bekasi, with an annual capacity of 12,000 tonnes, which Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita says will strengthen supporting industries, substitute imports and raise national industrial added value. The facility complements Shell's lubricants blending plant, whose capacity reaches 300 million litres per year, making Marunda one of Shell's top three grease facilities globally. The plant involves more than 50 domestic vendors with annual procurement of around Rp30 billion.

PTBA Chief Executive Open About Coal Reserves, Here Are the Figures

PT Bukit Asam (PTBA) President Director Bambang Ismawan told the House of Representatives Commission XII that the state-owned miner holds coal resources of 5.71 billion tonnes and reserves of 2.88 billion tonnes. This represents only around 9% of national reserves, a situation he described as concerning given that PTBA is Indonesia's only state-owned coal company, ranking fifth in production. He also noted that PTBA has consistently exceeded its 25% domestic market obligation, fulfilling over 54% in recent years.

Supreme Court Again Rejects Prosecutors' Cassation, Junaedi Saibih Remains Free in CPO Case

The Supreme Court has rejected the public prosecutors' cassation appeal against the acquittal of Junaedi Saibih in the alleged CPO bribery and obstruction of justice case. The ruling upholds the Corruption Court's earlier verdict, which found no meeting of minds proving his involvement.

Will Trump Hand Bab Al-Mandab to the Houthis and Abandon Saudi Arabia?

President Donald Trump's conciliatory stance towards the Houthi group has raised questions about the future security of one of the world's most strategic shipping routes. The Houthis have recently seized coastal territory around the Bab Al-Mandab Strait and announced plans to blockade Saudi oil supplies bound for Asia, suggesting the old formula of security in exchange for oil is losing relevance.

Factors that can trigger emotional problems in children with dyslexia

A paediatric development specialist has warned that labelling children with dyslexia as lazy or stupid can trigger emotional problems, including anxiety and depression in the long term. Speaking at a seminar hosted by the Indonesian Paediatric Society, Dr Farid Agung Rahmadi urged parents to recognise the child's difficulty patterns and help them build strengths in other areas instead.

Qodari: Suahasil capable of keeping Indonesia's economy growing and stable

Government Communication Agency (Bakom) chief Muhammad Qodari has expressed confidence that incoming Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara can sustain both economic growth and stability. He cited Suahasil's long experience at the Finance Ministry, including six to seven years as deputy minister and a prior stint as head of the Fiscal Policy Agency.

AI Grows Increasingly Sophisticated, Indonesia Urged to Enact Dedicated AI Law

Wahyudi Djafar, Executive Director of Catalyst Policy-Works, argues that Indonesia's Personal Data Protection Law (UU PDP) is insufficient to govern AI and that the country needs dedicated AI legislation, citing the EU's move from the GDPR to the EU AI Act. He noted the government is currently only pushing a Presidential Regulation on an AI roadmap and AI ethics, which he says will not be enough. He also urged faster implementation of UU PDP compliance standards, as that experience will shape the substance and scope of future AI regulation.

Man Detained After Foul Smell at Kota Tua Concert Not a Pickpocket, Handed Over to Social Services

A man detained after a pungent powder disrupted a concert in Jakarta's Kota Tua area, leading to its dispersal, was found not to be a pickpocket. Police examination found no stolen goods and no link to the irritating substance, and he was transferred to the Social Services Office for lacking identity documents. The incident, which caused eye irritation and breathing difficulties among the audience, occurred during performances by Armand Maulana and Kotak.

Jakarta Provincial Government Distributes Water to Drought-Affected Urban Villages

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has reported that several areas of the capital are experiencing drought as El Nino conditions persist. The provincial government is distributing water aid to affected residents, with reports channelled through the JAKI app or submitted directly. Pramono visited Meruya in West Jakarta, where some homes have lost their water supply, and expressed hope that El Nino would not extend beyond September.

Bangladesh court sentences seven officials loyal to Sheikh Hasina to death

A Bangladesh court has sentenced seven senior Awami League officials, all currently in exile abroad, to death for crimes against humanity committed during the 2024 uprising. The court also ordered the confiscation of half the assets of four of the convicts to compensate victims' families. The rulings follow the death sentence handed to former prime minister Sheikh Hasina in November.

Japan's Centenarian Population Passes 100,000

Japan's population of citizens aged 100 or above has surpassed 100,000 for the first time, reaching 107,677 as of 1 September 2026, according to the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare. The milestone marks the 56th consecutive annual increase, with women accounting for 87.6 per cent of centenarians. The trend reflects Japan's high life expectancy of 87.33 years for women and 81.35 years for men.

Investigation into Febrie Extortion and Money Laundering Case Completed, Ready for Handover

The Attorney General's Office has completed its investigation into former Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah, who is suspected of extortion and money laundering linked to 74 kilograms of gold and Rp543 billion in cash found at his Sentul home. Two private individuals, Nurman Herin and lawyer Don Ritto, have also been named suspects. The case will soon be handed to prosecutors to provide legal certainty.

Home Affairs Minister on Pekalongan carnival: Community activities must not disturb public order

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian has stressed that community activities must not disrupt public order or national unity, responding to controversy over the Simbang Kulon Night Carnival in Pekalongan Regency, Central Java. He cited Law No. 9 of 1998 on freedom of expression, saying such events can be dispersed if they violate its provisions. The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) separately called for continuous education on the limits of artistic expression in religious celebrations.

IOJI pushes for effective implementation of ILO C188 Convention to protect migrant fishing vessel crews

The Indonesia Ocean Justice Initiative (IOJI) has called for the effective implementation of ILO Convention No. 188 on Work in Fishing to strengthen protection for migrant fishing vessel crews (AKP). IOJI representative Tasya Nur Ramadhani said repeated cases of labour abuse, exploitation and people trafficking involving migrant crews reveal systemic failings by governments and businesses, and stressed that flag, port and market states must all adopt international standards, not just labour-sending countries like Indonesia.

Pekanbaru Air Quality Deteriorates, Mayor Extends Remote Learning Until Saturday

Pekanbaru Mayor Agung Nugroho has ordered remote learning for early childhood, primary and junior secondary pupils from Wednesday to Saturday after air quality in the city reached hazardous levels. The BMKG recorded an air quality index of 220 and a pollutant standard index of 243, with smoke largely blown in from South Sumatra and Jambi. The mayor urged residents to avoid open burning and vulnerable groups to limit outdoor activities, with masks available at community health centres.

Police Food Task Force processes 25 fortified rice brands to protect consumers

The National Police's Food Task Force is investigating 25 fortified rice brands whose contents allegedly do not match their labels, amid findings by the Agriculture Minister and National Food Agency head Andi Amran Sulaiman. Authorities are conducting laboratory tests and coordinating with Bapanas, with consumer losses estimated at up to Rp89 trillion due to price disparities and labelling violations.

Golkar and PKS agree to propose a 5 per cent parliamentary threshold

Golkar and the Prosperous Justice Party (PKS) have agreed to propose a moderate parliamentary threshold of around 5 per cent in deliberations on revising the Election Law. Golkar Secretary-General Muhammad Sarmuji said the figure balances simplification of the multiparty system with the need to reflect ideological fragmentation in society. The parties also discussed strengthening cooperation and support for the Prabowo-Gibran administration.

US watchdog reports weapons shortages due to Iran war

A Pentagon inspector general report has detailed the strategic weapons shortages and damage to American aircraft, military bases and diplomatic facilities caused by the war with Iran. It is the most comprehensive official account to date of the conflict's cost in American lives, taxpayer money and physical damage.

Two Books by Gerindra Politician Daddy Rohanady Reviewed by Academics

Two books by senior West Java Gerindra politician Daddy Rohanady, Kertajati and Antara Perut dan Maut, were reviewed by academics at the West Java Literacy Festival in Bandung. The works, written during the pandemic, critique governance and infrastructure development in West Java, including the Jatigede dam dispute and Kertajati International Airport. Daddy hopes the books will inspire young people to think and write for the region's progress.

Bondholders Reject All Restructuring Proposals from Adhi Karya (ADHI)

Bondholders of Adhi Karya's 2022 Continuous Bonds Series III Phase III have overwhelmingly rejected all three restructuring proposals, including an extension of maturity, a change to the coupon rate and a waiver for the missed 17th interest payment. The votes against ranged from 94.73% to 99.57%, leaving the state-owned contractor in default on the bond.

8 Standout Features of the Samsung Galaxy A56 5G: A Phone with a Slim and Lightweight Body

Samsung has launched the Galaxy A56 5G, a mid-range smartphone boasting a slimmer design, a 6.6-inch Super AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate, and a new 4nm Exynos chipset. The device also offers an IP67 rating, Samsung Knox Vault security, four generations of Android updates, and wider 5G band support, positioning it as a strong contender in the competitive mid-range segment.

Indonesia targets 5,000 fishermen villages to boost coastal economy

The Indonesian government plans to build 5,000 fishing villages (KNMPs) by the end of 2029, equipped with cold storage, ice plants, auctions and fuel stations, to raise fishermen's welfare. The programme includes 1,269 locations in 2026 with a budget of roughly Rp10 trillion, and aims to lift the Fishermen's Exchange Rate to 120 by 2027, up from 109.04. An early success was seen in Sorue Jaya, Southeast Sulawesi, which exported eight tonnes of fish during its trial phase.

Grand Zuri BSD City Presents 'For Women Vol. 1: Embrace Yourself', a Space for Women to Pause and Practise Self-Care

Grand Zuri BSD City, in collaboration with B/Skin and Jelita and supported by MAI Mental Care and Prodia Clinical Laboratory, hosted a women's self-care event on 12 September 2026. The programme included mental health sharing sessions, watercolour painting, a wellness tea bar, skincare treatments and basic health checks. A second edition, 'For Women Vol. 2: Strengthen Yourself', is planned with support from FIT HUB, focusing on fitness and physical health.

IOJI: Communication Access Aboard Vessels Must Be Accompanied by Protection for Migrant Fishing Crews

The Indonesian Ocean Justice Initiative (IOJI) has said that providing communication access for migrant fishing crew members is insufficient on its own and must be paired with protection mechanisms so they can report abuses without fear of retaliation. Indonesia has ratified ILO Convention No. 188 on Work in Fishing, which obliges vessel owners to provide adequate communication access as part of crew accommodation. The union Jangkar Karat Indonesia echoed the view, noting that connectivity such as Wi-Fi enables monitoring of crew conditions while vessels are far out at sea.

Agriculture Office: South Sumatra rice production rises 5 per cent during dry season

Rice production in South Sumatra rose around 5 per cent in January-August 2026 compared with the same period last year, according to the provincial Agriculture Office citing BPS data. The authorities remain on guard against drought, deploying pumps and optimising swampland, while floating rice cultivation is being developed to utilise flooded areas.

Rumah Zakat Distributes 700 Masks in Palangkaraya Amid Forest and Land Fire Haze

Rumah Zakat volunteers distributed 700 free masks to road users in Palangkaraya as haze from forest and land fires affects air quality in the city. The initiative, held near the Tugu Mahir Mahar traffic lights, also included education on protecting respiratory health during the haze. Residents were advised to limit outdoor activity and monitor official air quality information.

Suahasil Becomes New Finance Minister, Here Are OJK's Hopes

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has welcomed the appointment of Suahasil Nazara as Indonesia's new Finance Minister, replacing Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa. OJK Chair Friderica Widyasari Dewi expressed hope for stronger coordination between authorities, particularly through the Financial System Stability Committee, to safeguard financial stability and support national economic growth.

Economist advises Suahasil to review budget reallocation and strengthen MSMEs and education

UOB ASEAN Economist Enrico Tanuwidjaja says new Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara has room to reallocate and recalibrate the budget, particularly towards health, MSMEs and education. He noted that Indonesia's fiscal deficit remains under control at 0.76 per cent of GDP as of June 2026, leaving spending room before the 3 per cent cap. Suahasil, inaugurated by President Prabowo Subianto on 14 September 2026, has pledged to keep the state budget as an instrument for growth and stability.

Attorney General's Office Seizes 38 Land Assets Worth Rp 846 Billion in Febrie Adriansyah Money Laundering Case

The Attorney General's Office has seized 38 land and building assets valued at approximately Rp 846 billion, alongside company share certificates, foreign currency, gold and 1,150 documents linked to the extortion and money laundering case involving former Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah. The case stems from alleged extortion related to the Jiwasraya and ASABRI insurance scandals, with Febrie charged alongside Don Ritto and Nurman Herin. The case has not yet been transferred to court but is in finalisation for the second stage of handover.

Qodari: Fortified rice fraud to be dealt with firmly to protect consumers

The head of the Government Communication Body, Muhammad Qodari, has called for firm legal action over suspected fraud in 25 fortified rice brands, after the government estimated consumer losses of up to Rp89 trillion. Agriculture Minister and National Food Agency chief Andi Amran Sulaiman said the products had been ordered withdrawn, licences revoked, and legal proceedings initiated.

Ministry of Tourism highlights Blok M's rise as a favourite destination for foreign tourists

The Ministry of Tourism has noted that Blok M in South Jakarta is becoming a favourite destination for foreign tourists, drawn by its contemporary culinary offerings and viral food trends. Officials see this as a positive signal for Indonesia's culinary industry and plan to make Jakarta a gastronomy hub connecting to other culinary destinations such as Yogyakarta, Solo and Bali.

After Earthquake Amid Drought, DMC Dompet Dhuafa Distributes Clean Water to Earthquake Survivors

Dompet Dhuafa's Disaster Management Centre has distributed clean water to around 200 earthquake survivors in Nagekeo Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, where communities face both earthquake aftermath and severe meteorological drought. According to BMKG data, numerous districts across the province are on alert or warning status for drought, exacerbated by a strong El Niño.

Houthis attack Saudi Arabia with missiles and drones; GCC Secretary-General strongly condemns

The Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council, Jasem Albudaiwi, has strongly condemned continued Houthi attacks against Saudi Arabia using ballistic missiles and drones targeting civilian infrastructure. He described the attacks as a dangerous criminal escalation and a flagrant violation of international law, reaffirming the GCC states' full solidarity with Riyadh.

Khofifah pushes for farmland protection in step with industrialisation

East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa has called for farmland protection to proceed in step with the province's industrialisation needs, speaking at a working meeting with Commission II of the House of Representatives in Jakarta. East Java's protected sustainable farmland (LP2B) proposals have reached 87.34 percent of its paddy fields, exceeding the 87 percent target set under the 2025-2029 National Medium-Term Development Plan. Khofifah also flagged data mismatches between LP2B designations and actual land use, urging central government support to speed up integration with spatial planning.

Increasingly Alarming! Odds of a Fed Rate Hike Hit 93.6%

Markets are almost fully convinced the US Federal Reserve will raise interest rates by 25 basis points at its September 2026 FOMC meeting, with odds climbing to 93.6%. Sticky US inflation of 3.4% and surging oil prices above US$100 per barrel—driven by Middle East conflict disrupting the Strait of Hormuz and Saudi pipelines—have cemented expectations of the first hike in more than three years.

Xiaomi Pad 9 and Pad 9 Pro Officially Launched, Here Are Their Prices in Indonesia

Xiaomi has introduced its latest tablet generation, the Pad 9 and Pad 9 Pro, to the Indonesian market, targeting productivity users seeking high performance at competitive prices. The Pro variant offers a superior display panel and faster charging, though official Indonesian pricing and detailed specifications are still pending validation from Xiaomi Indonesia.

Sespimti Polri Trainees Encourage UIR Students to Pioneer Forest and Land Fire Prevention

Police trainees from Sespimti Polri delivered a briefing on forest and land fire prevention and the Green Policing concept to hundreds of students at Universitas Islam Riau. The initiative aims to foster youth involvement in environmental protection in Riau, emphasising cross-sector collaboration and preventive action.

Thomas Djiwandono Backs Suahasil Nazara to Strengthen BI-Finance Ministry Synergy

Bank Indonesia Deputy Governor Thomas Djiwandono has pledged full support for newly appointed Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara, emphasising continued coordination between monetary and fiscal authorities. At the handover ceremony in Jakarta, Suahasil committed to continuing his predecessor Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa's strategic programmes and strengthening the 'One Finance Ministry' spirit.

Strengthening Futures Broker Operations Boosts Credibility of Commodity Trading Industry

PT Dupoin Futures Indonesia has relocated its operational office in South Jakarta with the approval of the commodity futures regulator Bappebti. The move forms part of broader efforts to strengthen governance and compliance in Indonesia's commodity futures trading industry.

Former Religious Affairs Ministry Official Says Yaqut Transferred Him to Avoid KPK Summons

Nur Arifin, former Director of Special Hajj and Umrah Development at the Ministry of Religious Affairs, told the Jakarta Corruption Court that his transfer to UIN Sunan Gunung Djati Bandung was meant to shield him from KPK summons, on orders he attributed to former minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas. Yaqut, a defendant alongside Asosiasi Kesthuri chairman Asrul Azis Taba, denied the claim and any closeness with subordinate Rizky Fisa Abadi. The case concerns alleged state losses of Rp 622 billion from additional hajj quotas in 2023–2024.

KPK Detains Fahd Arafiq and Former Regent of Kebumen in Land Use Rights Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has detained Golkar senior official Fahd Arafiq and six other suspects following a sting operation into alleged corruption over building use rights (HGB) for Summarecon in Bogor Regency, West Java. Among those arrested are a former Regent of Kebumen, senior officials of the Agraria and Spatial Planning Ministry, and a private company president director. The KPK reportedly seized cash amounting to hundreds of billions of rupiah.

Suahasil Nazara Pledges to Continue Coordination with KSSK: It's Already Mandated by Law

Newly installed Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara has affirmed his commitment to continuing coordination with the Financial System Stability Committee (KSSK) in shaping fiscal and economic policy. He noted the committee's cross-institutional membership, spanning the Finance Ministry, Bank Indonesia, the OJK, the LPS and now Danantara, provides a comprehensive view of Indonesia's economic development. Suahasil was sworn in on 14 September 2026, becoming the third finance minister under President Prabowo Subianto.

SPX Express Announces Three Courier Children as Scholarship Recipients — Their Stories

SPX Express has named three children of couriers as recipients of its inaugural Super Scholarship under the SPX Super Manfaat programme. The winners will study at the University of Indonesia, Bandung Institute of Technology and Universitas Nusa Putra in Sukabumi, with the company also offering career coaching and potential employment after graduation.