Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 15 September 2026

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What's Happening in Indonesia: 239 Dead, 203 Missing in Shipping Accidents

Indonesia's National Search and Rescue Agency recorded 601 maritime accidents between January and mid-August 2026, leaving 239 dead and 203 missing out of 3,607 victims. Experts point to opaque passenger manifests and overly administrative shipworthiness checks as key failings, and urge the government to overhaul Minister of Transportation Regulation No 28/2022 to require physical inspections before vessels sail.

Tossed about for nine hours, five crew members of the Virgo survive thanks to an LPG cylinder

Five crew members of KM Virgo Transport 8 survived a mishap in the Java Sea by clinging to a single empty three-kilogram LPG cylinder for around nine hours. They were eventually spotted and evacuated by a tugboat, landing at Trisakti Port in Banjarmasin, South Kalimantan.

Commission II calls for Agrarian Reform Task Force to function properly in the regions

Commission II of the House of Representatives, chaired by Muhammad Rifqinizamy Karsayuda, has urged the Home Affairs Ministry to strengthen the Agrarian Reform Task Force, which it says has not functioned optimally in the regions. Rifqinizamy also revealed that governors will head the planned National Agrarian Reform Agency at provincial level under the forthcoming Agrarian Reform Regulation Bill.

KPK prosecutors present three private-sector witnesses in Rejang Lebong project bribery trial

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) presented three private-sector witnesses at the trial of suspended Rejang Lebong Regent Muhammad Fikri Thobari, who is accused of taking project fees. Witness B Daditama admitted collecting a total of Rp889 million in fees on wastewater and water treatment projects awarded to PT Citra Mas Cemerlang, with 15 per cent of each contract allegedly going to the regent. Daditama also confessed to receiving Rp356 million from eight state primary school heads.

Rumah Zakat's Fresh Post Supports Forest and Land Fire Officers and Volunteers

Rumah Zakat has opened a 'Pos Segar' (Refreshment Post) in Palangka Raya, Central Kalimantan, to support officers and volunteers battling forest and land fires. The post provides drinking water, vitamins, snacks and fruit to help maintain the stamina of frontline workers facing heat, smoke and difficult terrain. The organisation has also urged the public to remain vigilant and avoid activities that could trigger fires.

Evacuation of KM Virgo Transport 8: 114 Passengers Found, 129 People Still Being Searched For

The evacuation of 114 passengers from the KM Virgo Transport 8, which sank in the Masalembo waters of the Java Sea on 13 September, has been completed, with 108 survivors and six dead. The National Search and Rescue Agency is now focusing on finding the remaining 129 passengers, expanding search operations both on the surface and underwater using advanced technology including the KRI Kanopus. Jasa Raharja has confirmed compensation will be provided to victims.

KPK summons 11 witnesses in Palembang over Muara Enim procurement case

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned 11 witnesses in Palembang, South Sumatra, as part of its investigation into alleged bribery surrounding goods and services procurement at the Muara Enim Regency government. The witnesses include senior regional officials and a politician. The case stems from a sting operation in June 2026 that led to four suspects being named, including Muara Enim Regent Edison.

MSME Minister praises Rp12.5 trillion KUR disbursement in South Sulawesi

MSME Minister Maman Abdurrahman has lauded South Sulawesi for disbursing Rp12.5 trillion in people's business credit (KUR) to some 189,000 borrowers. He noted that around 73 per cent of the KUR went to the productive sector, above the national average and the government's 65 per cent target. The Minister also reaffirmed that loans between Rp1 million and Rp100 million require no collateral.

Can Malaysia PM Anwar's government survive the growing political standoff with Zahid?

Tensions between Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and his deputy Ahmad Zahid Hamidi have escalated following the UMNO General Assembly, where Zahid challenged Anwar to either call a snap general election or remove UMNO from the unity government. Analysts say UMNO, with only 30 MPs, lacks the numbers to bring down the government, and the brinkmanship is largely political signalling ahead of the next general election due by February 2028. Anwar is meanwhile courting East Malaysian blocs GPS and GRS, backing greater parliamentary representation for Sabah and Sarawak to shore up his position.

Bali prosecutors seek 5-year terms for 2 Indians over online gambling

Prosecutors at Denpasar District Court have sought five-year prison sentences for Piyush Sharma and Yash Raj Singh Gaur, identified as leaders of an online gambling network operated by 35 Indian nationals from two locations in Bali. Four-year terms were requested for the remaining 33 defendants, along with deportation after their sentences are served. The charges fall under Article 426(1)(a) of Indonesia's 2023 Criminal Code in conjunction with the 2025 law on criminal penalties.

DPR Commission XI Backs Suahasil Nazara as Finance Minister Replacing Purbaya

Deputy Chairman of DPR Commission XI Fauzi Amro has welcomed the appointment of Suahasil Nazara as Finance Minister, replacing Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa. He cited Suahasil's long track record at the Finance Ministry and deep fiscal expertise, expressing hope for improved quality of state spending under his leadership.

Menutup "Ruang Kosong" Agribisnis Indonesia

Opini ini menyoroti fenomena missing middle dalam struktur usaha agribisnis Indonesia, di mana 99% dari 66 juta unit usaha adalah usaha mikro-kecil sementara 5% perusahaan raksasa menguasai 75-80% penjualan industri. Penulis mengidentifikasi tiga hambatan utama pengusaha menengah—alokasi modal timpang, beban perizinan, dan lemahnya rantai dingin yang menyebabkan kerugian hingga Rp 110 triliun per tahun di sektor perikanan. Dengan Vietnam sebagai pembanding, ia menawarkan empat pilar solusi, termasuk pembinaan pemasok oleh BUMN Pangan, reorientasi anggaran ke cold chain dan R&D, serta penyederhanaan perizinan berbasis risiko.

Caught in KPK Sting Operation: Profile of Summarecon (SMRA) Boss Adrianto Pitojo Adhi

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has arrested Adrianto Pitojo Adhi, President Director of property developer PT Summarecon Agung Tbk (SMRA), in a sting operation at the Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency. The operation, linked to building rights title (HGB) processing in Bogor Regency, netted 17 suspects and around 20 suitcases of cash estimated in the hundreds of billions of rupiah. Adrianto, an architecture graduate who rose from freelance architect to lead one of Indonesia's major property firms, has held senior roles in Kadin, APINDO and REI.

Armenia ratifies free trade agreement between EAEU and Indonesia

Armenia's parliament has ratified the free trade agreement between the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) and Indonesia, with 100 of 105 members voting in favour. The deal, signed in St Petersburg, establishes a preferential tariff system covering over 98 per cent of bilateral trade commodities between Indonesia and Russia.

Academic proposes special agency to resolve overlapping agrarian authorities

Maria SW Sumardjono, an academic from Universitas Gadjah Mada, has proposed establishing a special agency as the leading sector for agrarian reform to resolve overlapping authority among ministries and agencies. Speaking at a public hearing with the DPR's Legislative Body on the Agrarian Reform Bill, she stressed that coordination and clear data on agrarian objects and subjects are essential for effective implementation.

In DPR, Sherly Tjoanda Bemoans Lack of Certainty Over 16,000 Hectares of Land for Farmers

North Maluku Governor Sherly Tjoanda has complained to the DPR's Commission II that 16,000 hectares of land for agrarian reform (TORA), already verified and cleared, remain undistributed to farmers. She urged the government to set clear time limits for the redistribution process, warning that uncertainty over land legality undermines farmers' livelihoods and the president's coconut downstreaming programme.

USIM academic highlights international law solutions to tackle transboundary haze

Mohd Hazmi Mohd Rusli, an academic at Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia, told an international law conference in Purwokerto that stronger international law and regional cooperation are essential to address Southeast Asia's annual transboundary haze problem. He emphasised that state responsibility requires proof of a failure of due diligence, and called on ASEAN to move from commitment to effective action, while blending local wisdom with scientific monitoring and regulation.

Iran Refuses Talks with the US to End the War

Iran's Supreme National Security Council has rejected negotiations with the United States to end the war, dismissing President Donald Trump's mixed signals about his willingness to talk. Iran insists it will not engage until its demands, including war reparations and the lifting of sanctions, are met.

Pertamina distributes subsidised fuel twice a week each month to 98 small-scale fishermen in the Ternate area

Pertamina distributes 65 kilolitres of subsidised Pertalite fuel each month via the Sinar Mutiara Jaya fishermen's fuel station in Dufa-Dufa, North Ternate. The fuel is channelled twice weekly, on Tuesdays and Thursdays, to 98 small-scale fishermen across North Ternate, Central Ternate and Hiri Island. Station supervisors hope the regional government will raise the allocation to 80–85 kilolitres per month to fully meet fishermen's needs.

Families of Journalists Missing in the Sunda Strait Receive Aid

Baznas RI has delivered assistance to the families of five journalists who lost contact while covering Mount Anak Krakatau in the Sunda Strait, Pandeglang, Banten. Its disaster response team has joined the joint SAR operation, and the agency has pledged continued coordination with the authorities and ongoing humanitarian support.

KPK Summons Three Unsoed Vice-Rectors as Witnesses in Student Admission Extortion Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned three vice-rectors and several lecturers of Jenderal Soedirman University (Unsoed) as witnesses in an extortion and gratification case centred on new student admissions, with Rector Akhmad Sodiq among six named suspects. The case involves three clusters of alleged wrongdoing, including a Rp 650 million payment demanded for entry to the Faculty of Medicine and Rp 1.12 billion allegedly received through admissions 'dowry' bargaining. Examinations are being carried out by the Banyumas Resort Police.

Two People Shot Dead in Land Dispute Clash in Batam

Two residents were shot dead and ten others injured when two community groups clashed over a long-running land dispute in Setokok, Bulang District, Batam, Riau Islands. Police have arrested six people and deployed officers to the scene, with the Regional Police Chief confirming the fatalities after visiting the hospital.

Bandung Regency Social Affairs Office traces child in viral video, suspected victim of violence

The Social Affairs Office of Bandung Regency is searching for a child seen crying and running in a viral video, suspected of being a victim of violence. Officers have combed locations around Desa Cingcin and Banjaran, but the mother and child have moved and are now being traced in Bandung City.

US Environmental Protection Agency Revokes Biden-Era Power Plant Emissions Rules

The US Environmental Protection Agency has formally repealed regulations limiting greenhouse gas emissions from coal- and natural gas-fired power plants, as part of the Trump administration's push to cut industrial costs and boost American energy independence. The rollback of the 2024 Carbon Pollution Standards is expected to face legal challenges from health and environmental groups, which estimate the scrapped rules could have prevented 30,000 deaths annually.

South Jakarta District Court Awards Roy Suryo Rp5 Million in Immaterial Damages

The South Jakarta District Court has granted part of Roy Suryo's pre-trial application for compensation over unlawful search, arrest and detention, awarding him Rp5 million in immaterial damages. The judge ordered the Minister of Finance to make the payment under Government Regulation 92/2015, while rejecting his Rp100 million claim and his demand for lost YouTube income.

China's new tech and national security exit-entry rules take effect

China's new exit-and-entry regulations came into force on 15 September, barring citizens deemed a threat to national technology security from leaving the country for periods of six months to three years. Foreign nationals, including potential visitors from Indonesia, may be denied entry for one to five years for false statements in visa applications. The rules, framed by the State Council as safeguarding national sovereignty and development interests, add to existing travel restrictions on officials and state-linked employees.

Qodari: President leverages BRICS Summit for the national interest

The head of the government's Communications Agency, Muhammad Qodari, said President Prabowo Subianto used the 2026 BRICS Summit in New Delhi to broaden international cooperation for Indonesia's national benefit, from job creation to improved welfare. At the summit, Prabowo insisted Indonesia will not be dictated to by any power and called on BRICS members to help build a fairer world order. Qodari stressed the diplomacy complements domestic priorities and that the government will ensure summit agreements deliver tangible benefits.

Forestry Ministry pushes biodiversity credits as conservation financing innovation

Indonesia's Ministry of Forestry is promoting biodiversity credits as an innovative financing mechanism for national park management, allowing measurable conservation outcomes to unlock new funding sources, including from the private sector. Deputy Minister Rohmat Marzuki said the government is preparing a regulatory framework covering permits, site selection and non-tax state revenues, with 13 national parks and two iconic species conservation landscapes designated as pilot sites.

Suspected Orange Thief Beaten to Death by Mob in Banyuwangi

An unidentified man died after being beaten by a mob allegedly caught stealing oranges from a resident's orchard in Bangorejo District, Banyuwangi, East Java. Police have deployed an identification team and are still investigating the killing and hunting the perpetrators.

Chronology of Woman Strangled to Death at Bekasi Chicken Noodle Stall After Online Dating Dispute

An 18-year-old woman, seven months pregnant, was strangled to death by a man identified as AK (23) at a chicken noodle stall in Babelan, Bekasi Regency, West Java, after a dispute over payment for online prostitution services arranged via the MiChat app. The suspect paid only Rp 50,000 of the agreed Rp 250,000 fee before killing the victim when she demanded the balance. AK has been detained and charged under Articles 458 and 466 of the Criminal Code, facing a maximum sentence of 15 years' imprisonment.

Misbakhun Speaks Out on Purbaya Being Replaced by Suahasil, Delivers This Message!

The House of Representatives (DPR) believes President Prabowo Subianto's replacement of Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa with Suahasil Nazara will not disrupt ongoing fiscal policy. Commission XI Chairman Mukhamad Misbakhun praised Suahasil's long track record at the Finance Ministry, noting his confidence that the 6% economic growth target in the 2027 state budget can be achieved despite global pressures.

Sudden Reshuffle: 'Cowboy Minister' Replaced by Suahasil

Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has been dismissed as Finance Minister and replaced by Suahasil Nazara, who was sworn in by President Prabowo on Monday. The removal came shortly after Purbaya celebrated one year in the post and had publicly insisted the economy remained on track towards the President's 8 per cent growth target. Suahasil, a veteran of the Finance Ministry, pledged to keep the budget deficit below 3 per cent of GDP.

Basnang Said Inaugurated as Director General of Islamic Boarding Schools

Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar has inaugurated Basnang Said as the first Director General of Pesantren, following the establishment of the new Directorate General as an echelon I unit within the ministry. The Minister urged the new leadership to deliver tangible improvements within its first 100 days and to build cooperation with regional pesantren stakeholders.

Said to Hold 40 Per Cent of IDX Shares After Demutualisation, Danantara Speaks Out

BPI Danantara has responded to reports that it will acquire a 40.12 per cent stake in the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) following the bourse's demutualisation. Danantara stressed that discussions are ongoing, with internal reviews and due diligence still under way, and that no final decision has been made. The process remains contingent on pending OJK regulations.

Police arrest suspect in murder of pregnant woman in Bekasi

Police in Babelan, Bekasi Regency, have arrested a 23-year-old man identified as AK for the murder of an 18-year-old pregnant woman. The suspect allegedly strangled the victim following a dispute over payment for a date arranged through the MiChat app.

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Reveals Seven Roles of Regional Governments in Accelerating the Energy Transition

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya Sugiarto has outlined seven strategic roles for regional governments in accelerating Indonesia's energy transition, from establishing emissions baselines to attracting green investment. Speaking at a high-level policy dialogue in Jakarta, he stressed that national climate targets under the Nationally Determined Contribution depend heavily on action by regional governments. He also highlighted grassroots initiatives, such as a community leader in East Jakarta whose climate programmes earned him an invitation to China.

Final Call for All in Print China 2026: Register Now for Your Printing Journey

All in Print China 2026 will host more than 1,100 exhibitors from 15 countries across 120,000 square metres, with over 120,000 trade visitors expected from more than 120 countries and regions. Notably, the event will feature a dedicated 'Indonesia Day' providing a platform for industry connections between China and Indonesia, alongside more than 60 accompanying forums and matchmaking events.

Driving Digitalisation of Market Retribution and Trader Transactions: Bank Mandiri Taspen's Strategy

PT Bank Mandiri Taspen has signed a cooperation agreement with Perumda Pasar Kota Kupang to digitalise retribution payments and trader transactions in Kupang's markets. The partnership will deploy digital banking services, including Mantap Cash Management, Virtual Accounts and QRIS, to make payments easier, safer and more transparent. It is also expected to support financial inclusion and enable real-time monitoring of market revenue.

Former Agriculture Ministry Director Indah Megahwati Charged Over Rp5.09 Billion in Fictitious Travel Expenses

Indah Megahwati, former Director of Agricultural Financing at the Agriculture Ministry, has been charged with corruption after allegedly causing Rp5.09 billion in state losses through fictitious official travel claims between 2020 and 2024. Prosecutors say she conspired with auxiliary treasurer Deny Suryawan Kussadono, who fabricated documents and misused employees' names in the SAKTI application. The defendants face charges under the new Criminal Code and the 1999 Corruption Eradication Law.

Culinary tourism draws 58 percent of foreign tourists: RI Govt

BPS data shows 58.34 percent of foreign tourists visiting Indonesia in 2025 engaged in culinary tourism, Tourism Minister Widiyanti Putri Wardhana announced ahead of Wonderful Indonesia Gastronomy 2026, to be held in Solo and Yogyakarta from 26 September to 4 October. The government is leveraging gastronomy to boost arrivals, targeting 16-17 million foreign tourists this year against 8.98 million recorded from January to July.

ASDP Sorong: KMP Kalabia dry-docking to optimise services

PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry's Sorong branch has taken KMP Kalabia out of service for its annual docking, expected to last 15 to 20 days. It is the last of four vessels in the branch's fleet to undergo maintenance this year, temporarily halting the Sorong-Fakfak, Sorong-Babo and Babo-Bintuni routes.

Scene at the Handover Ceremony Between Finance Minister Suahasil and Purbaya

Suahasil Nazara has replaced Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa as Finance Minister following his inauguration by President Prabowo Subianto on 14 September 2026. A handover ceremony was held at the Finance Ministry in Jakarta on Tuesday, 15 September 2026.

One Month After the KMP Putri Yasmin Tragedy: Four Passengers Still Missing, All Crew Survive

A month has passed since the KMP Putri Yasmin caught fire in the waters off Sekotong, West Lombok, yet four passengers remain missing and the vessel itself has not been located. The Mataram Search and Rescue Office ended its official eight-day search operation but continues monitoring and has circulated information to passing ships. Among the missing is I Made Sutarjana, President Commissioner of PT Widja Putra Karya, owner of The Oberoi Beach Resort properties in Bali and Lombok.

Russia Strikes Train Carrying Ex-CIA Chief, NATO Border on High Alert

A Russian drone strike hit a train near the Ukraine-Poland border while former CIA Director David Petraeus, ex-British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and other senior Western officials were travelling in the area. The attack fits Moscow's 'grey zone' escalation doctrine and comes as NATO is fractured between the Trump administration and Europe, with Ukraine facing winter without additional Patriot interceptors. It also threatens a vital diplomatic route, as rail remains the main means for allied leaders to reach Kyiv.

Brazil and the US to hold tariff negotiations in late September

Brazil and the United States are preparing a new round of face-to-face talks on US tariffs on Brazilian goods, likely in late September, on the sidelines of the G20 ministers' meeting in the US. Brazil rejects what it views as unjustified unilateral tariffs but says it will not close its economy or engage in a trade war, insisting on multilateralism and dialogue.

Aiding Residents Affected by Drought in Muba, South Sumatra Police Distribute 10,000 Litres of Clean Water

The South Sumatra Regional Police, through the Batanghari Leko Sector Police, distributed 10,000 litres of clean water to two villages in Musi Banyuasin affected by drought and limited water supply. Officers said the operation reflects Polri's commitment to serving the public and maintaining social stability. The police will continue monitoring conditions and coordinating with relevant agencies.

Thick Haze Reduces Visibility at Sultan Thaha Airport in Jambi to 750 Metres

Dense haze blanketing Jambi City on Tuesday (15/9) disrupted flights at Sultan Thaha Syaefuddin Airport, with visibility dropping to 750 metres and several departures and arrivals delayed. Airport General Manager Ardon Marbun confirmed no cancellations, but flights from Batik Air, Citilink and Garuda Indonesia were affected, following similar delays the previous day.

Job Connect Jakpus opens 3,000 job vacancies

The Central Jakarta Manpower, Transmigration and Energy Sub-agency is offering around 3,000 vacancies through the Jakarta Pusat Job Connect 2026 jobs fair, involving 38 companies. Central Jakarta Administrative Mayor Arifin said the initiative forms part of efforts by the DKI Jakarta provincial government to reduce open unemployment, which has been declining annually. He also highlighted growing participation among jobseekers with disabilities, several of whom have secured employment through previous editions of the event.

Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara Assures Continued Coordination with Financial System Stability Committee

Newly appointed Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara has pledged to continue intensive coordination with the Financial System Stability Committee (KSSK) to steer fiscal policy and safeguard national economic stability. He noted that the sovereign investment manager Danantara has also been invited to KSSK meetings, adding business-side perspectives on large-scale investment and economic development.

Coda welcomes Bombay High Court judgment in its favor

Singapore-based payments firm Coda has welcomed a Bombay High Court judgment concerning the freeze on Coda Payments India's bank and payment accounts. The company, whose Codashop platform is widely used in Indonesia and across Southeast Asia, says it has cooperated fully with authorities and remains committed to meeting all legal and regulatory requirements in every market it operates in. Related proceedings are still ongoing.

Prabowo Prioritizes Forest Fire Handling in IKN, Says Minister

Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni said President Prabowo Subianto is paying special attention to forest and land fires near the Nusantara Capital City (IKN) in East Kalimantan, which have burned for weeks. The IKN Authority, together with the Forestry Ministry, BNPB, TNI and police, is boosting ground patrols and firefighting equipment readiness to protect the Central Government Core Area, where air quality remains good.

Singapore and Malaysia Trail Indonesia, Whose Citizens Prove More Self-Confident

Indonesians rank among the most confident in ASEAN-6 at protecting themselves from scams, at 86%, second only to the Philippines, according to GSMA's Consumer Scam Reports 2026. However, this confidence contrasts with poor awareness of government prevention programmes and a very low scam-reporting rate to the police, at just 17%.

Health Ministry improves three components as part of JKN reform

Indonesia's Ministry of Health is focusing on improving three components, including the Standard Inpatient Class (KRIS) and tariff adjustments, as part of reforms to the National Health Insurance (JKN) programme. The reforms come as JKN has been running for around twelve years and require coordination with the National Social Security Council (DJSN) and BPJS Kesehatan.

Drought Threatens Indonesia, Agriculture Minister Amran Assures National Rice Stocks Are Safe Until June 2027

Agriculture Minister and National Food Agency head Andi Amran Sulaiman has assured that national rice stocks will remain safe until June 2027 despite drought threats from an extreme El Niño. He cited government infrastructure measures, standing crops of about 10 million tonnes, and state rice reserves managed by Bulog, bringing total availability to roughly 25-26 million tonnes. Indonesia has even exported rice to Malaysia and sent 10,000 tonnes of rice aid to Palestine.

Police Find Homemade Firearm and Ammunition in Home of Methamphetamine Suspect in Buleleng

Police in Buleleng, Bali, discovered a homemade firearm and eight rounds of ammunition whilst searching the home of a drug suspect known as MN. The suspect claims he had held the weapon for roughly 15 years, having received it from a now-deceased neighbour, and now faces charges under the new Criminal Code and narcotics law.

The 3rd GTI Forum on Digital Intelligence, Hong Kong Advances Global Inclusive AI Development

The third GTI Forum on Digital Intelligence in Hong Kong saw GTI and China Mobile propose global cooperation on AI innovation, application scenarios and trustworthy governance. China Mobile and partners released an AI security governance white paper, launched the AI4S Scientific Workstation International Edition with Hong Kong Polytechnic University, and unveiled 6G open testbed achievements. The forum highlights Asia-Pacific efforts to bridge the digital-intelligence divide and promote inclusive AI development.

AI Leaders Call for a Slowdown, but Wall Street Keeps Buying Shares

Top AI figures including Sam Altman, Dario Amodei and Elon Musk have urged caution over the technology's existential risks, yet investors continue to pour money into AI-related stocks. Hyperscalers such as Microsoft and Alphabet rose over 2%, while semiconductor stocks fell, and cybersecurity firms surged on fears of AI-enabled threats. Geopolitical rivalry with China and dismissive comments from President Trump make any major slowdown highly unlikely.

Gibran Asks Businesses to Safeguard Economic Stability; Analyst: Aims to Prevent Negative Speculation

Senior political analyst Boni Hargens has praised Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka's call for public and business support to maintain national economic stability following Suahasil Nazara's appointment as Finance Minister. Boni described the statement as strategically timed to provide political certainty and sustain positive market sentiment during the cabinet transition.

What is mindfulness and how to practise it

Drawing on guidance from the Mayo Clinic and the Indonesian Ministry of Health, the article explains mindfulness as a form of meditation that cultivates full awareness of the present moment without judgement. It outlines the benefits for focus, energy and emotional balance, and offers seven practical daily techniques recommended by the Health Ministry.

Indonesia's 18 National Holidays, 8 Collective Leave Days for 2027: Full List

The Indonesian government, coordinated by the Coordinating Ministry for Human Development and Cultural Affairs, has announced 18 national holidays and eight collective leave days for 2027, with most being religious observances. The schedule, set out in a joint decree by the ministers of Religious Affairs, Manpower, and Administrative and Bureaucratic Reform, accounts for weekends and the Eid al-Fitr homecoming period. Collective leave applies to civil servants, whilst private-sector employees' days off remain at employers' discretion.

Haze forces Riau Islands to implement learning from home starting 15 September

The Riau Islands provincial government has shifted in-person learning to home-based learning for senior high school, vocational school and special needs students from 15 September due to deteriorating air quality caused by haze. The decision follows reports that air quality across the province has entered the unhealthy category, with smoke blown in from ongoing forest and land fires in Kalimantan.

Hasan Basri Appointed Deputy Chairman of the DPR's Ethics Council, Replacing Agung Widyantoro

The leadership of the House of Representatives (DPR RI) has approved Hasan Basri Agus of the Golkar Party faction as Deputy Chairman of the Council's Honourable Chamber (MKD), replacing Agung Widyantoro. The change follows a wider rotation of commission leadership positions carried out by the Golkar faction at the start of the 2026-2027 session term.

Indonesia and Bulgaria Open New Opportunities for Food and Agricultural Trade

Indonesia and Bulgaria are exploring expanded market access for food and agricultural products, with Bulgaria seen as a strategic gateway to the European market. Discussions also cover investment opportunities, including cattle ranching and milk processing technology, to support Indonesia's Free Nutritious Meal programme. Talks will continue at a technical level, covering trade, investment, food security and halal certification.

Al-Aqsa Complex Eroded by New Jewish Religious Reality

The Palestinian Jerusalem Governorate has warned that Israel is imposing a new Jewish religious reality around the Al-Aqsa Mosque, citing repeated rituals at the Bab al-Rahma cemetery along the compound's eastern wall. It highlighted a WhatsApp group set up by Temple Mount groups promoting weekly worship at the site, led by former Israeli officer Uri Ohayon. The governorate stressed that the entire 35.6-hectare mosque compound is an Islamic waqf and that Israel has no sovereignty over occupied Jerusalem or its holy sites.

Pertamina continues to strengthen synergy to restore fuel services in Makassar

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga is stepping up coordination with local government, the military, police and other stakeholders through a joint task force to accelerate the recovery of fuel services in Makassar, South Sulawesi. Recovery measures include extended petrol station operating hours, increased fuel supply, additional nozzles and operators, and public information updates via official social media, with services gradually returning to normal.

Measuring the Appeal of Indonesia's Gold ETF in the Eyes of Global Investors

Global capital has been flowing heavily into gold exchange traded funds (ETFs), and Indonesia, which recently launched its own gold ETF, is expected to benefit from this foreign inflow. According to the World Gold Council, physically backed gold ETFs recorded US$18 billion in foreign capital inflows in August 2026, the second-largest monthly inflow in the history of gold ETFs.

ADCP Speaks Out on PKPU Lawsuit Over Adhi City Sentul Project

PT Adhi Commuter Properti (ADCP) has disclosed that contractor PT Burda Contraco has filed a suspension of debt payments (PKPU) petition against it over allegedly unpaid work on the Adhi City Sentul project. ADCP insists the case has no significant impact on its financial performance or operations, and that it can still meet obligations to bondholders, sukuk holders and other creditors. The first hearing is scheduled for 17 September 2026 at the Central Jakarta Commercial Court.

Danantara Firmly Demands Adhi Karya Take Responsibility for LRT City Project

The BUMN Management Agency and Danantara are pushing for a comprehensive resolution to the stalled LRT City project, demanding that PT Adhi Karya hand over some 2,400 housing units that remain undelivered to buyers. Danantara COO Dony Oskaria stressed that consumers, particularly first-time home buyers, must not suffer losses, with options including accelerated construction or refunds on the table.

AirNav and Boeing Sign Letter of Intent to Improve Efficiency at Ngurah Rai Airport

AirNav Indonesia and The Boeing Company have signed a letter of intent to study improvements in air traffic and aircraft movement at I Gusti Ngurah Rai Airport in Bali. The collaboration aims to increase aircraft movements from 33 to 34-40 per hour, enhance flight safety, and reduce fuel emissions, with a trial period running until January.

KPK questions wife of former Cirebon Regent in PLTU construction bribery case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has examined Wahyu Tjiptaningsih, wife of former Cirebon Regent Sunjaya Purwadi Sastra, as a witness in an alleged bribery case linked to the Cirebon 2 coal-fired power plant permits. The case stems from a sting operation in October 2018, with Hyundai Engineering and Construction manager Herry Jung and PT Kings Property Indonesia director Sutikno named as suspects. Prosecutors allege bribes totalling billions of rupiah were paid to secure the permits.

Muara Enim Councillor Summoned by KPK as Witness in Regent Edison Bribery Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned Hera Elyana, a member of the Muara Enim Regency Legislative Council, along with ten other witnesses in the bribery case engulfing suspended Regent Edison. Edison allegedly received Rp 500 million through the head of the Education and Culture Office, linked to a smart board procurement project, and separately Rp 1.6 billion was allegedly paid to officials at BPK to alter audit findings.

Paying Market Levies Is Now Easier: Bank Mantap Partners with Kupang City Perumda

PT Bank Mandiri Taspen (Bank Mantap) has signed a cooperation agreement with Perumda Pasar Kota Kupang to digitalise market levy payments and trader transactions across Kupang's markets. The partnership will deploy digital banking services including Mantap Cash Management, Virtual Accounts and QRIS to make payments easier, safer and more transparent for traders and the local government.

7 Recommended Leading Primary Schools in Jabodetabek with Monthly Fees Below Rp3 Million

With the new academic year approaching, parents across Greater Jakarta are comparing primary schools on curriculum, distance and cost. CNBC Indonesia has compiled seven well-regarded private primary schools in Jabodetabek whose monthly tuition fees remain under Rp3 million. Entry costs, however, can reach nearly Rp50 million once admission, activity and uniform fees are included.

Prioritising Investment and Working Capital Financing, HDFA Turns Loss into Profit in First Half

PT Radana Bhaskara Finance Tbk (HDFA) posted a net profit of Rp1.53 billion in the first half of 2026, reversing a Rp82 billion loss recorded at the end of 2025, which had been driven by additional impairment provisions. The company disbursed Rp1.64 trillion in new financing, focusing on asset-based financing for heavy equipment and trucks, with nearly half its portfolio serving mining and plantation businesses. HDFA targets Rp4.1 trillion in financing for 2026.

Air Quality in Jambi Deteriorates Due to Forest and Land Fires, Schools Closed

Smoke haze from forest and land fires has pushed air quality in Jambi City and several regencies into the 'very unhealthy' to 'hazardous' range. In response, local governments including Jambi City, Muarojambi and Batanghari have suspended face-to-face teaching and shifted to distance learning to protect children's health.

Roy Suryo Wins Pre-Trial Motion, Finance Minister Ordered to Pay Rp5 Million in Compensation

The South Jakarta District Court has granted part of Roy Suryo's pre-trial motion, ordering the Minister of Finance to pay him Rp5 million in immaterial compensation. An earlier attempt had failed on formal grounds because the Finance Minister was not named as a relevant party.

Chinese National Arrested for Hunting and Eating a Turtle in Raja Ampat

A Chinese national, Wei Shang, has been detained by immigration officers at Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport in Makassar on suspicion of hunting and eating a protected turtle in Raja Ampat, Southwest Papua. The case emerged after the suspect posted about it on social media, prompting the Raja Ampat regency government to request his interception before he could fly to Kuala Lumpur.

Choirs from 87 Churches Sing the National MTQ March

The 31st National MTQ in Semarang showcased Indonesia's religious tolerance, with choirs from 87 churches and representatives of various faiths singing the MTQ march at the opening ceremony. The event set a MURI record with nearly 25,000 participants attending in person and over 263,000 joining online, while Semarang retains its position as Indonesia's third most tolerant city according to the SETARA Institute's 2025 index.

Chinese Navy Escort Task Force to Visit Bangladesh, Myanmar and Malaysia

The 48th escort task force of the Chinese People's Liberation Army Navy will make port visits to Bangladesh, Myanmar and Malaysia on its return from the Gulf of Aden. Defence Ministry spokesman Jiang Bin said the visits will feature professional exchanges and open-ship events to deepen strategic trust with neighbouring countries. The task force, comprising destroyer Tangshan, frigate Daqing and supply ship Taihu, departed for its mission on 11 October 2025.

Papua special committee scrutinises security posts amid Maybrat conflict

The Papua Special Committee of the Regional Representative Council (DPD RI) has recommended an evaluation of security approaches in Maybrat Regency, Southwest Papua, so that conflict handling does not disrupt residents' daily activities. Committee Deputy Chair Filep Wamafma urged the TNI Commander and National Police Chief to reassess troop placement methods, and pressed police to resolve the shooting of civilians in Kampung Ainot. He stressed that conflict resolution must be paired with development and the restoration of basic facilities such as schools, healthcare and clean water.

Air Quality in Riau Islands Very Unhealthy, Acute Respiratory Infection Cases Surge

Air quality across Riau Islands Province has reached very unhealthy levels due to smoke from forest and land fires in Sumatra and Kalimantan, with Batam recording an index of nearly 200. The provincial health office reports acute respiratory infection cases rose by 600 over three weeks, and vulnerable groups have been urged to stay indoors.

Android-based Googlebook available for pre-order from 21 September 2026

Google has confirmed that pre-orders for its premium Android-based laptop, the Googlebook, will open on 21 September 2026 at 9am ET. Major manufacturers including Acer, ASUS, Dell, HP and Lenovo are set to produce the device, which will feature Google's Gemini Intelligence AI, including the Magic Cursor contextual recommendation feature.

BUMN Chief says INKA needs comprehensive transformation

Dony Oskaria, Head of the SOE Ministry and COO of Danantara, has stated that state train maker PT INKA requires a comprehensive turnaround, citing negative equity, unsustainable loans of Rp4.7 trillion and losses of Rp670 billion. He emphasised that reform must span the business model, governance, work culture, production quality, operations, engineering, finance and business processes. The transformation is seen as strategically important for developing Indonesia's national railway industry.

PDAM Water Supply Cut Off for a Month in Senggigi, Foreign Tourists and Residents Left Stranded

Clean water supply from regional utility PDAM Giri Menang has been disrupted for around a month in the tourist area of Senggigi, West Lombok, forcing businesses and residents to rely on bottled water. Foreign visitors have reportedly expressed disappointment, while residents question why they must still pay bills on time despite poor service. The utility's acting director said the disruption stems from reduced water flow during the dry season.

KPK summons three civil servants from Manpower Ministry over K3 certificate case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned three civil servants from the Ministry of Manpower as witnesses in an investigation into alleged extortion in the processing of occupational safety and health (K3) certificates. The case has already seen Deputy Manpower Minister Immanuel Ebenezer Gerungan and ten others named as suspects in August 2025, with three more suspects added in December 2025.

Danantara: Change of Finance Minister Will Not Disrupt Transfer of SOE Shares in KCIC

BPI Danantara CEO Rosan Perkasa Roeslani has confirmed that the transfer of state-owned enterprise shares in Kereta Cepat Indonesia China (KCIC) to the Ministry of Finance will proceed as planned. The assurance comes despite the recent handover of the finance ministerial post from Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa to Suahasil Nazara. The announcement was made on CNBC Indonesia's Power Lunch programme.

Health Minister Says Indonesia Needs USD 27 Billion to Raise Life Expectancy to 76 Years

Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin said Indonesia needs an additional USD 26-27 billion over five years to complete the national health system transformation and raise life expectancy to 76 years and healthy life expectancy to 65 years. Of the total USD 223 billion required, some USD 203 billion has been committed by the government, with USD 177 billion already allocated. The ministry is seeking support from global partners and philanthropists to bridge the gap.

Petrol Car Sales Fall, BEVs Rise — Toyota Boss Has This to Say

Battery electric vehicle sales in Indonesia surged 24.63% month-on-month to 17,413 units in August 2026, whilst petrol car sales fell 4.34% to 54,683 units, according to Gaikindo data. Toyota-Astra Motor views the shift as both a challenge and an opportunity, arguing that ICE vehicles still dominate the market and promoting hybrids as a transition technology. Toyota's hybrid sales have grown more than 80% year-on-year, though electrified vehicles still account for only about 21% of its total sales.

Creditors Approve Debt Restructuring

Shareholders of PT Modernland Realty Tbk. (MDLN) have approved plans to transfer or pledge company assets worth more than 50 per cent of net assets as part of efforts to settle its Guaranteed Senior Notes due April 2027. Under a scheme of arrangement with Modernland Overseas Pte. Ltd., 98.10 per cent of noteholders holding US$262.06 million in claims voted in favour of the restructuring, which now awaits sanction by the Singapore High Court.

Basarnas prioritises medical triage for 22 survivors of the Virgo vessel

Twenty-two survivors of KM Virgo Transport 8 were evacuated by KRI Nala and transferred in stages by smaller vessels to Trisakti Port in Banjarmasin, South Kalimantan. Upon arrival on Tuesday morning, all survivors underwent medical triage so health teams could determine appropriate treatment. The joint SAR operation continues to search for remaining victims.

JETP Has Yet to Maximally Drive the Energy Transition — Here's Why

CERAH's Program and Policy Manager, Wicaksono Gitawan, says the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP) has been ineffective so far, four years after its launch at the G20 Summit. He noted the early retirement of the Cirebon 1 and Pelabuhan Ratu coal plants was cancelled, revealing the complexity of Indonesia's power system planning, but hopes the JETP 2.0 phase under the JETP Delivery Unit can refocus efforts, including supporting the 100 GW solar programme.

Indonesia, Bulgaria Discuss Strengthening Trade & Investment Cooperation

Indonesian Trade Minister Budi Santoso and Bulgarian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Poulev met in Jakarta to strengthen bilateral trade and investment ties, marking 70 years of diplomatic relations. Budi invited Bulgarian businesses to Trade Expo Indonesia 2026 and sought support for the I-EU CEPA implementation targeted for early 2027, while Poulev proposed reviving the Joint Commission for Economic Cooperation in the first half of 2027. Total bilateral trade in 2025 stood at US$230.8 million, with Indonesia enjoying a US$64.2 million surplus.

Study: The heart rhythm of 70 per cent of people follows a cycle

Researchers at the University of Melbourne have found that the resting heart rate of 70 per cent of participants follows multi-day cycles that cannot be explained by seasonal, exercise or environmental factors. Analysing smartwatch data from 623 healthy students covering more than 900 monitoring years, the team believes the findings could improve understanding of neurological and psychiatric conditions.

Deputy Governor of Jakarta Affirms Commitment to Public Services Through New Bus Stop in Jagakarsa

The Jakarta provincial government has officially opened the Universitas Pancasila Trans-Jakarta bus stop on Jalan Lenteng Agung Raya in Jagakarsa, South Jakarta, as part of efforts to strengthen integrated public transport. Deputy Governor Rano Karno said the facility was designed to be inclusive, particularly for people with disabilities and the elderly. The stop was built through a collaboration between the provincial government, PT Transportasi Jakarta and Universitas Pancasila.

Honor Magic 9 and Magic 9 Pro Max specifications revealed ahead of debut

Leaked specifications for the Honor Magic 9 and Magic 9 Pro Max have emerged ahead of their launch in China on 28 September 2026, shared by tipster Digital Chat Station. The flagship models feature 200-megapixel main cameras, large silicon batteries, and Qualcomm's latest Snapdragon chipsets.

Iran Struck Hundreds of US Facilities in the Middle East, Pentagon Reveals Heavy Losses

A US Department of Defense Inspector General report has formally acknowledged for the first time that Iranian strikes damaged or destroyed hundreds of buildings and structures at American bases across at least eight Middle Eastern countries. The conflict, which ran from late February to the end of June, also depleted key US ammunition stocks and forced CENTCOM to overhaul its longstanding military posture in the region, including relocating personnel and shifting maritime logistics to Diego Garcia.

Chilli Prices in Aceh Surge Drastically Due to Crop Failure and Maulid Season

Chilli prices across Aceh have risen sharply over the past week as supplies from local farmers dwindle amid extreme heat causing crop failures. Demand has peaked due to the Maulid kenduri tradition, which runs for three months and drives bulk chilli purchases. Housewives and food stall owners in Sigli report having to halve their weekly purchases.

Purbaya Relieved Over 80-Year Whoosh Debt: 'Thank God I'm Safe!'

Outgoing Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa expressed relief at no longer being responsible for the debt of the Jakarta-Bandung high-speed rail project (Whoosh), which is to be restructured over an 80-year tenure. The annual instalment is estimated at around Rp1 trillion, with responsibility for the debt transferring from KCIC to the Finance Ministry. The matter now falls to his successor, Suahasil Nazara, who was sworn in by President Prabowo Subianto.

PT Inka Burdened by Rp 4.7 Trillion in Debt, Danantara Prepares Business Transformation

Danantara Indonesia and BP BUMN are pushing PT Inka (Persero), the state-owned railway manufacturer, to carry out a comprehensive business turnaround as it grapples with negative equity, unsustainable loans of Rp 4.7 trillion and operational losses of Rp 670 billion. COO Dony Oskaria said the transformation will cover the business model, governance, work culture and production quality, in line with President Prabowo Subianto's ambition for a globally competitive rail industry.

Culinary tourism is the reason 58 per cent of foreign tourists visit Indonesia

The Ministry of Tourism reported that 58.34 per cent of foreign tourists visiting Indonesia in 2025 engaged in culinary or gastronomic activities, citing BPS data. The ministry has launched the Wonderful Indonesia Gastronomy (WIG) 2026 programme, to be held in Solo and Yogyakarta from 26 September to 4 October 2026, to promote Indonesia's culinary heritage globally. The programme also aims to boost micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and support the government's target of 16 to 17 million foreign tourist arrivals this year.

Pentagon Report Admits Iran Destroyed Hundreds of Buildings at US Bases, Munitions Stocks Dwindling

A US Department of Defense Inspector General report has provided the first official accounting of damage from the war with Iran, revealing that strategic munitions inventories have been depleted and hundreds of buildings at American bases across the Middle East were damaged or destroyed. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth told Congress the war has cost up to 37.5 billion US dollars, with diplomatic facilities suffering an estimated 184 million dollars in damage.

House of Representatives approves Hasan Basri as Deputy Chairman of the Ethics Council, replacing Agung Widyantoro

The leadership of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI) has approved Hasan Basri Agus of the Golkar Party faction as Deputy Chairman of the Council's Honour Council (MKD), replacing Agung Widyantoro. The change follows a letter from the Golkar faction dated 18 August, and the MKD leadership formation remains one chairman and four deputies.

Note the Christmas 2026 and New Year 2027 Holiday Dates — Long Weekends Possible

The government has set the national holidays and collective leave days for 2026 and 2027 through joint ministerial decrees. Christmas 2026 falls on 24–25 December and New Year's Day on 1 January 2027, allowing for long weekends with additional annual leave. Workers are advised to check leave policies at their workplaces before planning extended breaks.

Purbaya After Dismissal: Feeling Happier, Plans to Fish at Home

Former Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa said he plans to return home and fish for mujair and tilapia after handing over his post to Suahasil Nazara. He said he was not surprised by his dismissal, having estimated his chances at 50-50, and expressed relief at no longer carrying the burdens of office.

Roy Suryo's Pre-Trial Petition Partially Granted, Awarded Rp5 Million in Compensation

The South Jakarta District Court has partially granted Roy Suryo's pre-trial petition, ordering Rp5 million in immaterial compensation for him. An earlier petition was rejected on formal grounds because he had failed to name the Minister of Finance as a relevant party, as required by law.

Government targets thematic inland fish farming at 40,000 locations

The government, through Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan, has announced a target to develop thematic inland fish farming at 40,000 locations across 500 regencies and cities between 2026 and 2029. For 2026 alone, the programme aims to establish 4,000 sites, with village governments as beneficiaries supported by 40,000 mini Recirculating Aquaculture System units.

Jambi Forest Fire Task Force to Send Heavy Equipment to Tackle Blaze in Berbak National Park

The Jambi provincial forest and land fire task force will deploy heavy machinery to open road access to fires inside Berbak National Park in Tanjung Jabung Timur Regency, after securing permission from the Ministry of Forestry. Governor Al Haris said land-based firefighting is urgent because water bombing alone has proven insufficient, while limited access has hampered crews from reaching the blaze.

4,127 Forest and Land Fire Hotspots Detected in Sumatra, South Sumatra Records the Most

Satellite monitoring by Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has detected 4,127 hotspots indicating forest and land fires across Sumatra, with the highest concentration in South Sumatra. In Riau, 96 hotspots were recorded, prompting warnings over smoke haze, whilst authorities in Jambi and Pekanbaru have closed schools and moved lessons online due to hazardous air quality.

Deputy Minister of Investment Stresses Strengthening of the National Bioethanol Industry

Deputy Minister of Investment and Downstreaming Todotua Pasaribu inaugurated the Bioethanol Development Centre in Lampung, a joint facility of PT Pertamina New & Renewable Energy and PT Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indonesia. With national petrol consumption projected to reach 39.7 million kilolitres by 2029 and plans for an E20 blend, the centre will test production economics before scaling capacity to 60,000 kilolitres in 2027. The programme also aims to involve farmers and cooperatives in the raw material supply chain.

SATO Supports Singapore's Next-Generation Blood Supply Management System with RFID Technology

SATO, a global auto-identification and data capture solutions provider, has supplied RFID labels and PJM readers for Singapore's Next-Generation Blood Supply Management System (NBSM). Deployed by the Health Sciences Authority's Blood Services Group and blood bank laboratories across public and private hospitals, the system enables online blood ordering and automated tracking of blood components, improving national supply visibility and patient safety.

Woman Beaten to Death at Bekasi Chicken Noodle Stall Was Seven Months Pregnant, Foetus Dies

Police in Bekasi Regency, West Java, have revealed that a woman, initial K (18), killed at a chicken noodle stall in Babelan was seven months pregnant, with her unborn daughter also dying in the attack. The perpetrator, AK (23), who was acquainted with the victim through the MiChat application, has been detained and faces charges under Articles 458 and 466 of the Criminal Code carrying a maximum sentence of 15 years. The motive stemmed from a dispute over an agreed payment of Rp 250,000.

Purbaya Says He Wants to Fish and Daydream: Why Was I Sacked?

Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa, who has stepped down as Finance Minister, joked with reporters that he plans to fish in the pond behind his house while musing on why he was dismissed. He indicated he wishes to retire from government service, noting he had already been approaching retirement at the deposit insurance agency (LPS) before taking the ministerial post.

KPK Records 973 Village Heads and Officials Caught in Corruption Since 2014

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has recorded 973 village heads and village officials embroiled in corruption cases between 2014 and 2022. In response, the agency is promoting its Anti-Corruption Village programme, with two villages in Bangka Belitung, including Kimak Village in Bangka Regency, currently being assessed as pilot candidates.

Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa Relieved No Longer Handling Rp116 Trillion Whoosh Debt

Former Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa expressed relief at no longer being responsible for managing the debt of the Jakarta-Bandung high-speed rail project (Whoosh), following plans to transfer KCIC shares to a Special Mission Vehicle under the Ministry of Finance. The debt, estimated at US$7.2 billion or around Rp116 trillion, has been restructured over an 80-year tenure with annual instalments of about Rp1 trillion. Purbaya said the handover questions should now be directed to his successor, Suahasil Nazara.

Tech Giants Stumble in an Instant, the Impact Spreads Everywhere

Global financial markets were rocked by a massive sell-off in AI-related shares after industry leaders including Anthropic's Dario Amodei, Elon Musk and Sam Altman issued stark warnings about the existential risks of the technology. Semiconductor and chip stocks bore the brunt, with the Philadelphia Semiconductor Index falling 5.2% and sharp declines across Wall Street, Europe and Asia. The furore has also spilled into public policy, with the US Senate drafting risk-mitigation legislation while President Donald Trump dismisses the concerns as a conspiracy.

Saudi Arabia Discovers "Treasure Trove" in Madinah: 110 Million Tonnes Worth Rp1,760 Trillion

Saudi Arabia has announced the discovery of some 110 million tonnes of rare earth minerals and uranium ore at Jabal Sayid, near Madinah, during the 70th Regular Session of the IAEA General Conference. The deposit, valued at around US$100 billion, is estimated to be the world's fourth-largest rare earth metals site and strengthens the Kingdom's nuclear cooperation with the United States.

Why Is There an Option to Sink KM Virgo? This Is Basarnas's Reason

Basarnas is considering deliberately sinking the capsized KM Virgo Transport 8 in the Java Sea, as the vessel has drifted around 2.9 kilometres from the accident site, complicating the search for 129 missing victims. Marshal Mohammad Syafii said a stable position on the shallow seabed, roughly 30 metres deep, would make it safer for Navy and Kopaska divers. Other options under consideration include righting the vessel or towing it elsewhere.

BRICS Seen as Able to Strengthen Indonesia's Economic Independence

Indonesia's active participation in BRICS is viewed as a way to broaden its strategic options amid shifting global alignments without simply swapping one bloc for another. Muh Isnain Mukadar, head of the National Executive of the National Student League for Democracy (EN LMND), urged that membership be used to strengthen sovereignty, bargaining power and economic self-reliance. He stressed that cooperation must serve national interests and avoid creating new dependencies.

Day 9 of Galuga Landfill Fire in Bogor: Flames and Smoke No Longer Visible

Firefighting efforts at the Galuga landfill in Bogor, West Java, have entered their ninth day, with flames and smoke now visually undetectable. Authorities are shifting to post-fire recovery mitigation, though thermal drone imaging has identified potential hotspots beneath the waste piles.

Iraqi Parliament Rejects Use of Its Territory to Threaten Saudi Arabia's Security

Iraq's parliamentary speaker, Haibet al-Halbousi, has reaffirmed Iraq's rejection of any use of its land or airspace to threaten Saudi Arabia, following drone attacks launched from southern Iraq that targeted the East-West Pipeline. Saudi Arabia's foreign ministry said it held back from retaliation at the Iraqi prime minister's request, whilst praising the close ties between the two nations.

Head of Al-Hidayah Islamic Boarding School in Pati Named Suspect in Molestation Case, Faces 12 Years in Prison

Police in Pati, Central Java, have named MKA (48), the head of the Al-Hidayah Islamic boarding school in Kayen, as a suspect in the molestation of female students, with allegations of at least eight incidents. He faces up to 12 years in prison under the Sexual Violence Crimes Law and the Criminal Code, with a possible one-third increase given his status as an educator. The school's operations have halted and the local Ministry of Religious Affairs is considering permanent closure.

Police Investigate Deaths of Australian National and Two Children in Bali

Denpasar police are investigating the deaths of an Australian national, SDJ, 57, and his two young children, found dead in a bungalow in Legian, Badung. CCTV footage and witness testimony strongly suggest the father killed his children before taking his own life, with investigators citing severe depression and a history of anxiety disorders. Police plan to issue a termination of investigation order (SP3) as the main suspect is deceased, and the case is being handled in coordination with the Australian Consulate.

US Admits Iran War Caused Ammunition Shortages, Four F-15 Fighter Jets Destroyed

A Pentagon Inspector General report has revealed that the US military faces strategic ammunition shortages after the war against Iran, dubbed Operation Epic Fury, cost some $33.4 billion between February and June. The report detailed significant losses including four destroyed F-15 fighter jets, a damaged F-35, seven KC-135 tanker aircraft and 30 MQ-9 Reaper drones, contradicting President Trump's repeated claims of near-limitless weapons stockpiles.

Finance Minister Suahasil ready to continue coordination with the KSSK

Newly installed Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara has pledged to continue coordination with the Financial System Stability Committee (KSSK) in shaping future fiscal and economic policy. He noted that the committee, comprising the Finance Ministry, Bank Indonesia, the OJK and the LPS, offers a comprehensive perspective on Indonesia's economic development. Suahasil was appointed under Presidential Decree No. 97P of 2026, having previously served as Deputy Finance Minister under both the Jokowi and Prabowo administrations.

Woman Killed at Bekasi Chicken Noodle Stall Over Payment Dispute

An 18-year-old woman identified as K was strangled to death at a chicken noodle stall in Babelan, Bekasi Regency, after a dispute over payment for an online booking service. The perpetrator, AK (23), was arrested by residents and has been named a suspect, facing charges under Articles 458 and 466 of the Criminal Code with a maximum sentence of 15 years.

AirNav and Boeing to optimise capacity at Bali's Ngurah Rai Airport

AirNav Indonesia has partnered with Boeing to improve the operational efficiency and capacity of I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali, where capacity currently stands at around 33 aircraft movements per hour. Using Boeing's digital modelling technology, including TAAM simulations and 4D visualisations, the study will test up to three scenarios to increase throughput, particularly during peak hours. The government is supporting the initiative by exempting AirNav from dividend payments so revenues can be reinvested in air navigation services.

Greenpeace Wins as Government Ordered to Disclose Revocation of Four Nickel Mining Permits in Raja Ampat

The Jakarta State Administrative Court has rejected an objection by the Ministry of Investment and Downstream Industry/BKPM, affirming that the decrees revoking four nickel mining permits in Raja Ampat must be made public. Greenpeace welcomed the ruling, nearly a year after Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia announced the revocations in June 2025 without publishing any official documents. The group is urging full transparency on the implementation stages and companies' environmental restoration responsibilities.

Denny Indrayana Urges Constitutional Court to Disqualify Vice-Presidential Candidate Failing Education Requirements

Former Deputy Minister of Law and Human Rights Prof Denny Indrayana has petitioned the Constitutional Court to disqualify a vice-presidential candidate who allegedly never met the senior secondary school (SLTA) education requirement. He argued the case concerns cancellation of candidacy rather than impeachment, and called on the Court to open hearings publicly within its 14-working-day window.

Village Ministry asks village facilitators to publicise the use of Village Funds

The Ministry of Village and Development of Disadvantaged Regions has called on village facilitators to publicise the physical outcomes of Village Fund spending, rather than merely presenting figures. Friendy P. Sihotang, Director of Village Fund Utilisation Facilitation, said publication is essential so the wider public can directly see the results of development funded through the scheme. He stressed that Village Funds belong to everyone, not just facilitators or village governments.

Two Vital Bridges in Gayo Lues, Aceh Severed by Floods and Landslides

Floods and landslides triggered by heavy rainfall since Monday have severed two vital inter-district bridges linking Blangkejeren and Dabun Gelang in Gayo Lues Regency, Aceh. The Aceh Disaster Management Agency (BPBA) reported Badak and Rigeb villages as the worst affected, with residents displaced and access to hospitals and offices disrupted. Authorities are coordinating with the National Road Implementation Agency to deploy heavy equipment and clear landslide debris.

From Gold Pawnbroking to Micro KUR: Ultra Micro Holding Helps Mur Dwi Astuti Succeed as a Farmer in Merauke

Mur Dwi Astuti, a rice farmer in Merauke, Papua, built her agricultural business step by step, starting with gold pawnbroking at Pegadaian before moving on to BRI's Micro People's Business Credit (KUR). The financing enabled her to expand her farmland from one to three hectares, despite ongoing challenges from weather, pests and water scarcity. BRI says her journey illustrates how the Ultra Micro Holding ecosystem—BRI, Pegadaian and PNM—can progressively open financial access as businesses grow.

23 People Fall Victim to Alleged Gold Trading Fraud in Bali, Losses Reach Rp 6.8 Billion

Twenty-three people have reported being victims of an alleged gold trading fraud by PT New Emas Now, with combined losses of Rp 6.8 billion. The case has been reported to Bali Provincial Police, with three individuals under investigation including the company's finance director.

Unsoed Expert: Legal Policy Must Support Sustainable Development

Professor Tedi Sudrajat, an administrative law expert at Universitas Jenderal Soedirman, has argued that government legal policy must support sustainable development by balancing economic, social and environmental interests. Speaking at the 4th ICOLGAS conference in Purwokerto, he emphasised that meaningful public participation is key to responsive law-making, criticising the prevailing top-down approach to regulation in Indonesia.

Malaysian influencer reported to Jakarta Metro Police over suspected embezzlement

A Malaysian influencer, identified by the initials AK, has been reported to the Jakarta Metro Police over allegations of fraud, embezzlement and money laundering amounting to Rp5.7 billion. The report was filed by an Indonesian agency that had facilitated the influencer's career and covered various financial obligations. Police are examining the evidence before deciding on further legal steps.

UN: Fighting in Yemen sparks displacement amid access constraints

The United Nations warned on 14 September that continued fighting in Yemen has forced at least 125,000 civilians to flee since the beginning of the month. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs verified 40 civilian casualties, including eight deaths, and said humanitarian operations are severely hampered by insecure access and dwindling funding.

Hong Kong's five-year plan to retain capitalism, uphold 'one country, two systems' principle

Hong Kong will unveil its first five-year development plan alongside Chief Executive John Lee's annual policy address, setting strategic priorities through 2030 in tandem with China's 15th Five-Year Plan. The plan retains the capitalist system under the 'one country, two systems' principle while prioritising projects such as the HK$224 billion Northern Metropolis, which analysts say could cost some 60 per cent more and will require significant private capital.

Thai Residents Protest at Israeli Embassy Over Tourists' Behaviour

Hundreds of demonstrators gathered outside the Israeli embassy in Bangkok to protest the behaviour of Israeli tourists, whom locals accuse of disrespecting Thai law, customs and sovereignty. The protest, led by former media tycoon Sondhi Limthongkul, follows a series of high-profile incidents, prompting the Thai government to summon the Israeli ambassador and step up investigations into foreign-owned businesses.

Timah Discloses Profit Projections and Rare Earth Project Update

PT Timah (Persero) Tbk (TINS) is optimistic that its net profit in the second half of 2026 could match or exceed the first half, supported by strong tin prices and improved mining governance under Presidential Regulation 79/2026. The company projects cash costs of US$23,000–24,000 per metric ton by end-2026 and a 2026 capex of Rp 446 billion, while its rare earth element project remains in the research stage with around three potential partners under evaluation.

Agriculture Minister Amran: National rice stocks secure until June 2027 despite El Nino

Agriculture Minister and National Food Agency head Andi Amran Sulaiman has assured that Indonesia's national rice stock is secure until June 2027 despite the threat of extreme El Nino drought. He cited government infrastructure measures, ample government rice reserves of around 5 million tonnes, and total national availability of 25-26 million tonnes against monthly consumption of 2.5-2.6 million tonnes. Indonesia has even begun exporting rice to Malaysia and sent 10,000 tonnes of rice aid to Palestine.

Business Association Hopes Suahasil Nazara Will Maintain Fiscal Policy Certainty

The Indonesian Employers Association (Apindo) has urged new Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara to maintain policy continuity following the leadership change at the Finance Ministry. Apindo Chair Shinta Kamdani said business needs predictable policies on taxation, customs and investment incentives, warning that fiscal credibility must be balanced with growth amid heavy development spending demands.

Educational profile of Suahasil Nazara, new finance minister replacing Purbaya

Suahasil Nazara was sworn in as Indonesia's Finance Minister on 14 September 2026, replacing Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa and becoming the third finance minister under President Prabowo Subianto. A University of Indonesia economics graduate with a master's from Cornell and a doctorate from the University of Illinois, he previously served as Deputy Finance Minister and Head of the Fiscal Policy Agency.

Bakom: President stresses the availability of quality food

The head of the Government Communication Agency (Bakom), Muhammad Qodari, said President Prabowo Subianto is prioritising both the availability and quality of food to protect the Indonesian public. The statement follows findings that 25 fortified rice brands allegedly failed to meet national standards, with estimated consumer losses of Rp89 trillion, prompting the government to order product recalls, licence revocations and legal proceedings.

Posing as Money Changer, Iranian National Swindles Rp 13 Million from Buleleng Shop

Police in Buleleng, Bali have arrested an Iranian national, MS (54), who posed as a money-changer to steal Rp 13 million from a shopkeeper in Pancasari village. The suspect was tracked through CCTV footage and a rental car hired in Denpasar, and was apprehended upon his return to Bali. He faces charges under Articles 486 and 492 of the Criminal Code, carrying a maximum sentence of four years.

Amran Orders Substandard Fortified Rice Withdrawn and Tells Public Not to Buy It

Agriculture Minister and National Food Agency chief Amran Sulaiman has ordered the withdrawal and licence revocation of 25 fortified rice brands found not to meet standards, with suspected mislabelling and overpricing causing an estimated Rp89 trillion in consumer losses. He urged consumers not to purchase the flagged products and vowed legal action against those responsible.

Relaxed Laughter Between Suahasil and Purbaya at Finance Minister Handover Ceremony

Suahasil Nazara formally replaced Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa as Finance Minister in a warm handover ceremony at the Finance Ministry building in Jakarta, following a cabinet reshuffle by President Prabowo Subianto. Purbaya ended his tenure of just over a year, having been appointed on 8 September to succeed Sri Mulyani. Suahasil previously served as Deputy Finance Minister under both the Joko Widodo and Prabowo administrations.

Two Bodies of KM Virgo Victims Brought to Banjarmasin by Police Helicopter

The Indonesian National Police (Polri) evacuated two bodies of victims of the KM Virgo Transport 8 sinking using a Dauphin AS 365 N3 helicopter from waters south of Banjarmasin. As of 09.00 WITA, 114 of the 243 people aboard had been found, with 108 survivors, six dead and 129 still missing as the joint SAR operation continues.

Chinese National Who Fell on Mount Rinjani Successfully Evacuated

A joint Search and Rescue team has successfully evacuated Li Xianhua, a 47-year-old Chinese national, after he fell and lost consciousness on the Senaru–Batu Ceper climbing route on Mount Rinjani in West Nusa Tenggara. The victim sustained a head injury and was taken to Nusa Medica Clinic Sembalun for further treatment, with the SAR operation officially closed.

Pertamina guarantees BDKT standard applied at 753 SPBE facilities across Indonesia

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga has confirmed that all 753 LPG bulk filling and transport stations (SPBE) across Indonesia have fully implemented the Sealed Packaging (BDKT) standard for both subsidised and non-subsidised gas. The state energy company is working with central and regional governments, including the Trade Ministry's Metrology Directorate, to ensure quality and distribution reliability.

Purbaya Speaks Candidly on Reasons Behind His Dismissal as Finance Minister

Former Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa revealed that a reshuffle of around 300 officials and tax officers at the Finance Ministry was partly linked to his removal from the post. He insisted that his dismissal was entirely the President's prerogative and that there were no fundamental problems with the policies he pursued. The handover ceremony on Tuesday marked the official start of Suahasil Nazara's tenure as the new Finance Minister.

Gunungkidul strengthens young farmer development through YESS-SI programme

The Gunungkidul regional government, in partnership with Polbangtan Yogyakarta-Magelang, is implementing the YESS-SI programme for 2027–2029, a national initiative between the Ministry of Agriculture and the International Fund for Agricultural Development. Gunungkidul is one of 15 districts selected to run the programme, which aims to expand rural youth employment and entrepreneurship whilst accelerating farmer regeneration. The programme rests on four pillars: capacity building, competitive grants, commodity cluster development, and facilitated access to finance including People's Business Credit (KUR).

BKPM: Bioethanol development to drive economic and energy resilience

The Ministry of Investment and Downstream Industry/BKPM says bioethanol development supports four strategic government agendas: energy resilience, downstream processing, energy transition and economic resilience. Deputy Minister Todotua Pasaribu inaugurated the Bioethanol Development Centre in Pesawaran, Lampung, noting national petrol consumption is projected to rise from 37.3 million kilolitres in 2025 to 39.7 million kilolitres in 2029, whilst domestic fuel-grade bioethanol capacity remains limited.

Power Plays in the Arctic: The European Union Seeks a New Strategy

European leaders gathered in Rovaniemi, Finland, at the invitation of Prime Minister Petteri Orpo to forge a new EU strategy for the Arctic, a region thrust into the spotlight by climate change and Russia's war against Ukraine. The summit highlighted growing security concerns, with warnings that Russia is reopening Soviet military bases and that China's interest in the region is rising. Leaders called for greater investment in military mobility, cross-border connectivity and critical infrastructure ahead of an updated EU Arctic Strategy expected by October 2026.

Hajj Funds' Investment Returns Subsidise Majority of Hajj Costs, Observer: Hajj Is for Those Who Can Afford It

An Indonesian hajj observer, Ade Marfuddin, has criticised the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah's proposal to cover 60 percent of the 2027 Hajj Organising Costs (BPIH) of Rp 107.3 billion using returns on managed pilgrim funds. He argues that excessive reliance on these returns undermines the Islamic principle of istithaah, whereby hajj is obligatory only for those financially able.

Influenza A Cases on the Rise: How It Differs from the Common Cold

Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin has said the Ministry of Health is monitoring a rise in influenza cases, including Influenza A, in several regions such as East Java, though he stressed the current strain is not the deadly H5 subtype linked to bird flu. Doctors report a surge in patients testing positive for Influenza A and B, some developing severe symptoms such as pneumonia. The ministry is assessing local handling of cases and urging the public to take standard precautions, including mask-wearing and hand hygiene.

Sport and Networking Combine to Aid NTT Earthquake Recovery

The Berkeley Club of Indonesia and T3 Sports & Lifestyle organised a padel and pickleball charity event in South Jakarta, raising Rp175 million for communities affected by the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. The funds, collected from 5,443 donors, will be channelled through the NTT Recovery Program managed by YCAB Foundation as relief efforts shift from emergency response to longer-term recovery.

Australia pushes for early warning system to counter AI threats

The head of Australia's cyber intelligence agency, the Australian Signals Directorate, has called for a formal early warning system to detect threats posed by artificial intelligence. Abigail Bradshaw urged organisations to use AI defensively and for intelligence agencies to work with AI companies, as global tech leaders debate slowing AI development.

Rano Karno: Jakarta Provincial Government Continues to Strengthen Public Transport Access

Jakarta Deputy Governor Rano Karno has inaugurated the Universitas Pancasila bus stop on Jalan Lenteng Agung Raya in Jagakarsa, South Jakarta, as part of efforts to improve inclusive public transport access. The stop serves five Transjakarta routes with a combined fleet of more than 100 buses, and was built through collaboration between the provincial government, Transjakarta and the university.

Suspended Bekasi Regent Sentenced Lighter Than Prosecutors' Demands

The Bandung Corruption Court has sentenced suspended Bekasi Regent Ade Kuswara Kunang to six years in prison and a Rp300 million fine for accepting bribes tied to project procurement at the Bekasi regency government. His father, HM Kunang, received four years, matching the prosecutors' demand, while Ade's sentence came in below the seven years sought by the KPK. The case stems from a sting operation in December 2025.

Commission IX backs accelerated repair of earthquake-damaged health facilities in East Nusa Tenggara

Commission IX of the House of Representatives is supporting the accelerated recovery of health facilities damaged by the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara, where Ruteng Regional Hospital suffered up to 75 per cent physical damage and 166 community health centres were affected. Ravindra Airlangga urged the Health Ministry to allocate sufficient fiscal space in the 2027 budget for repairs and to ensure adequate sanitation at displacement points amid cases of diarrhoea among children. There are 179,037 displaced residents across 444 evacuation points in Flores.

Summarecon (SMRA) Boss Caught in KPK Sting, 20 Suitcases of Cash Found

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has arrested Adrianto Pitojo Adhi, President Director of PT Summarecon Agung Tbk (SMRA), in a sting operation at the Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency (ATR/BPN). Investigators seized roughly 20 suitcases of cash in rupiah and foreign currency, with the total estimated at hundreds of billions of rupiah. Seventeen people were detained in total, including senior land agency officials.

Former Agriculture Ministry director indicted for Rp5.09 billion state losses in corruption case

A former director of Agricultural Financing at Indonesia's Agriculture Ministry, Indah Megahwati, has been indicted for causing Rp5.09 billion in state losses through fictitious official travel between 2020 and 2024. Prosecutors allege she instructed a treasury officer, Deny Suryawan Kussadono, to manipulate travel documents to fund her personal needs.

Samsung and Verizon complete key 6G network technology trial

Samsung and Verizon have successfully trialled AI-based Integrated Sensing and Communication (ISAC) technology, marking a key step towards the commercialisation of 6G networks. The trial, conducted at an international football fan event in Texas, demonstrated real-time network sensing capable of monitoring crowds and optimising resources. The test also represents the industry's first practical implementation of a core 6G technology.

Waste Landfill Fire in Cidadap, Bandung: Four Elderly Residents Rushed to Hospital

A fire at a temporary waste disposal site in Cidadap, Bandung, has burnt more than two hectares of land and exposed residents to smoke, with 11 people reporting health problems and four elderly residents hospitalised with acute respiratory infections. Firefighters have used more than 40,000 litres of water, but the sloping terrain, strong winds and suspected methane gas have hampered extinguishing efforts. Local authorities have set up health and evacuation posts and are distributing masks to a nearby school.

Thailand launches "Nihao Month" to boost tourism from China

The Tourism Authority of Thailand has launched the third edition of its "Nihao Month" campaign, running from mid-September to the end of October, to stimulate Chinese travel demand during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day Golden Week. The initiative combines digital sales conversion, on-site privileges, cultural engagement and key opinion leader narratives, with arrivals projected to reach 250,000 and tourism revenue of 11.5 billion baht.

Commission II of House: Governors to Head National Agrarian Reform Agency

The chair of Commission II of the House of Representatives, Muhammad Rifqinizamy Karsayuda, has said governors will head the planned National Agrarian Reform Agency (BRAN) at the provincial level. The agency will be established under the Agrarian Reform Regulation Bill, a House initiative bill approved on 8 September 2026. The bill aims to improve land governance and empower regional governments and citizens, including by transferring abandoned land and confiscating under-utilised cultivation rights.

FAO: Hormuz blockade to cause decline in global food production

The FAO's liaison director for Russia, Oleg Kobiakov, has warned that a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz would reduce global food production and supply in the second half of 2026 and into 2027. He explained that agricultural production follows inflexible planting calendars, meaning even short delays could force farmers to cut fertiliser use and lower harvests. The warning comes amid escalating conflict between the United States and Iran that has brought shipping through the strait, a key route for oil and LNG trade, to a near standstill.

Former Agriculture Ministry Director Charged Over Fictitious Official Travel, Costing State Rp 5 Billion

Indah Megahwati, former Director of Agricultural Financing at the Agriculture Ministry, has been charged with engineering fictitious official travel claims that allegedly cost the state some Rp 5 billion. Prosecutors say she acted with former treasury officer Deny Suryawan Kussadono, who allegedly borrowed employees' names, fabricated hotel receipts and bypassed verification between 2020 and 2024. Both are charged under the national Criminal Code and the anti-corruption law.

What happens when people talk in their sleep? A medical explanation

Sleep talking, medically classified as a form of parasomnia, occurs when the boundary between sleep and wakefulness is blurred, allowing speech without conscious control. It can occur during any sleep stage and is not necessarily linked to dreaming, so sleep-talk should not be taken as an honest revelation of a person's thoughts. Occasional episodes are harmless, though frequent occurrences with unusual movements warrant medical evaluation.

Search for 129 Victims of Virgo Transport 8, SAR Team Rely on ROV from KRI Canopus

The joint SAR team is deploying underwater technology, including a Remotely Operated Vehicle from KRI Canopus-936, to search for the 129 victims still missing after the Virgo Transport 8 sinking in the Java Sea. Poor weather conditions and the capsized vessel's shifting position have prevented divers from being deployed. The ship reportedly drifted 1.6 nautical miles from the original accident site as of 14 September 2026.

Agriculture Minister Assures Rice Stocks Are Secure for the Next 10 Months

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman has assured that Indonesia's food situation remains secure despite global crises in food, energy and water. National rice availability stands at 25–26 million tonnes, sufficient to cover consumption needs for the next ten months, until June next year.

Minister of Population reveals fertility disparities between provinces

Minister of Population and Family Development Wihaji told the DPR that although the national total fertility rate stands at 2.13, sharp disparities persist between provinces, with Highland Papua recording the highest at 2.78 and Jakarta the lowest at 1.79. He said the government is pursuing programmes on early childhood care, elderly empowerment and stunting reduction to balance population quantity and quality.

Truck carrying hebel overturns in East Jakarta after tyre burst

A truck carrying lightweight concrete blocks (hebel) overturned on Jalan Raya Taman Mini in Makasar, East Jakarta, on Tuesday morning after its front tyre burst, causing the driver to swerve and avoid a motorcyclist. The driver suffered a knee injury, and traffic in the area was disrupted during the lengthy evacuation of the vehicle and its cargo.

Timeline of Maudy Ayunda Being Attacked by Netizens on X Over Mindfulness Video

Maudy Ayunda faced a wave of criticism on X after posting a video on 21 August 2026 advising a 'news diet' to protect mental health, which netizens deemed tone-deaf amid Indonesia's social and environmental crises. The backlash extended to her beauty brand FromThisIsland, which uses illipe nut butter sourced from Kalimantan's pressured forests, exposing an apparent contradiction between her business and her message. Maudy has since apologised, acknowledging that stepping away from the news is itself a privilege.

A Model for Indonesia to Emulate: Malaysia's Success in Managing Oil and Gas Through Petronas

As Indonesia's parliament deliberates the new Oil and Gas Bill, which could place upstream management under a Special Oil and Gas Enterprise (BUK Migas), Malaysia's Petronas offers a compelling template. Established in 1974, Petronas has grown into a globally integrated energy player whose 2025 profits were roughly 3.3 times those of Pertamina despite smaller revenues. Placing the BUK function at Pertamina's holding level could replicate this model, linking state mandate with commercially professional management.

12 Proboscis Monkeys Found Dead After Forest Fires in South Kalimantan

The South Kalimantan Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA) has confirmed the deaths of 12 proboscis monkeys, along with a python and a king cobra, in forest and land fires at Balimau village in Hulu Sungai Selatan regency. The agency said roughly 80 per cent of the community-owned land forming part of the monkeys' fragmented habitat was burnt, and it is coordinating with local governments to protect the remaining population.

Ministry of Hajj and Umrah Service Day: A Moment to Reaffirm Commitment to Pilgrim Services

Indonesia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah marks its first anniversary and inaugural Service Day, using the occasion to reaffirm its commitment to professional, safe and fair hajj services for Indonesian pilgrims. The ministry emphasises institutional transformation, digital innovation and cross-agency collaboration as pillars for improving service quality. The author argues that serving pilgrims is not merely administrative work but a form of devotion and trust.

2027 Calendar: Government Sets 18 National Holidays and 8 Collective Leave Days

The Indonesian government has officially designated 18 national holidays and 8 collective leave days for 2027 through a joint ministerial decree. Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture Pratikno said the majority of national holidays are tied to religious observances.

Forest Fire Suspect Arrested in Inhil, Claims He Meant to Chase Away Bees

Police in Indragiri Hilir have detained a man identified as AK for burning 0.25 hectares of land and forest after he set fire to dry oil palm fronds to drive away bees. The fire spread rapidly due to hot, dry weather, and authorities have seized several pieces of evidence whilst urging the public not to burn land.

520 Military Hardware Units to Fill Monas for the 81st TNI Anniversary on 5 October 2026

The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) will deploy 520 units of military hardware and vehicles for a parade marking its 81st anniversary at the National Monument (Monas) in Jakarta on 5 October 2026. The display comprises 420 TNI vehicles and 100 antique or non-military vehicles, alongside thousands of personnel. The parade, involving 81 battalion-level units, will be witnessed by the President, Vice President, officials, foreign guests and the general public.

Complete! The 2027 Calendar and Full List of Public Holidays

The Indonesian government has established the 2027 national holiday and collective leave calendar through a Joint Ministerial Decree (SKB) signed by three ministers, comprising 18 national holidays and eight collective leave days. The total of 26 'red dates' includes major religious observances such as Eid al-Fitr, Nyepi, Waisak and Christmas, alongside state commemorations like Independence Day.

Sodomy of Teenager: Depraved Youth Arrested in Muara Angke, North Jakarta

Police from Tanjung Priok Port Precinct have arrested a 26-year-old man, VIJAP, for allegedly sexually abusing a 14-year-old boy at his boarding house in Muara Angke, Penjaringan, North Jakarta. The case came to light after teachers and parents noticed changes in the victim's behaviour, and the suspect was groomed via social media before moving his lodgings closer to the victim's home. He faces charges under the new Criminal Code and the Sexual Violence Law carrying a maximum of 15 years' imprisonment.

Netanyahu to Attend UN General Assembly in New York

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced he will travel to New York from 23 to 25 September to attend the UN General Assembly, despite an outstanding International Criminal Court arrest warrant. Netanyahu is said to be unconcerned about potential arrest, as the United States does not recognise the ICC's jurisdiction. His visit is expected to draw protests, whilst major Jewish organisations plan a counter-demonstration against antisemitism.

Arab Region Aflame! Houthis Seize Strategic Red Sea Island as the US Steps In

US Vice President JD Vance revealed that Washington is holding direct talks with the Houthi rebel group following its seizure of the strategic Mayun (Perim) island in the Red Sea. He said the US is maintaining contact with the Emirates, Saudi Arabia and other affected parties, and stressed that the situation remains fluid. The intervention comes amid escalating fighting between Yemeni government forces and the Houthis, who have stepped up attacks on vital energy facilities in Saudi Arabia.

Yudo Sadewa Says Traders Can Earn Billions — Here's How to Start from Zero

Yudo Achilles Sadewa, son of former Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa, has revived public interest in trading after claiming traders can earn billions of rupiah a month. However, experts warn that large profits are only part of the picture, as traders also face the risk of losing capital when markets move against them. Citing Investopedia, the article outlines foundational steps beginners should take before entering the trading profession.

Joint SAR team evacuates 22 survivors from KMP Virgo Transport 8 incident

A joint search and rescue team evacuated 22 survivors from the passenger vessel KMP Virgo Transport 8, which had been stranded at sea due to high waves off South Kalimantan. The survivors were transferred between two vessels and taken to Banjarmasin using a fast patrol boat from the Banjarmasin Naval Base to speed up the operation.

Police to Pursue Legal Action Over Fake Fortified Rice Scandal

The Indonesian government has uncovered alleged fraudulent fortified rice sold at prices far above the normal rate, with laboratory tests showing the products do not match their labels, potentially causing losses of up to Rp89 trillion. The National Police Food Task Force is tracing distribution chains to determine criminal liability, while officials say the case may implicate organised groups and corporations under fraud provisions of the Criminal Code and Consumer Protection Law.

KAPMI: Kadin Law revision answers trade and industry challenges of the AI era

The Central Executive Board of the Indonesian Young Entrepreneurs' Chamber of Commerce (BPP KAPMI) has voiced full support for revising Law No. 1 of 1987 on the Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KADIN). KAPMI Chairman Muliansyah Abdurrahman argued the current law is outdated for a digital and AI-driven economy and must strengthen KADIN's governance, advocacy and services to members. He pledged KAPMI's active involvement in deliberations with the government and House of Representatives.

Unsoed Rector stresses global collaboration to tackle challenges in law and AI

The Acting Rector of Universitas Jenderal Soedirman, Prof Ali Rokhman, has underscored the importance of international collaboration in addressing challenges in law, governance and artificial intelligence. Speaking at the 4th International Conference on Law, Governance and Social Justice (ICOLGAS) 2026 in Purwokerto, he highlighted Unsoed's partnerships with around 50 international institutions across more than 20 countries. The hybrid conference drew over 200 participants from five countries, with 120 papers presented on themes including sustainable development, climate adaptation and AI governance.

Search for Missing Journalists in the Sunda Strait Extended to Bengkulu

The search for five journalists and three boat crew members who went missing while heading to Mount Anak Krakatau in the Sunda Strait has entered its eighth day, with teams now combing waters around Bengkulu and Enggano Island. A male body recovered from Enggano is undergoing DNA matching against the missing group. The combined SAR operation spans roughly 3,962 square nautical miles across five sectors, supported by drones and helicopters.

Why are iPhone prices in Indonesia higher? Here are 6 reasons

iPhone prices in Indonesia are significantly higher than in many other countries, but the difference stems from more than just tax. Factors include VAT, import and distribution costs, local content (TKDN) requirements, Apple's pricing strategy and exchange rate movements. The iPhone 17 launched officially in October 2025 at Rp17,249,000, rising to Rp43,999,000 for the Pro Max 2TB variant.

South Sumatra Regional Police Distribute 10,000 Litres of Clean Water to Musi Banyuasin Residents

The Batanghari Leko Police, under South Sumatra Regional Police, distributed 10,000 litres of clean water to villages in Musi Banyuasin affected by drought and limited water supply. Officers delivered the water directly to residents of Bukit Sejahtera and Bukit Pangkuasan villages as part of the police's community service commitment. The initiative also aims to maintain social stability and public order in the district.

Commission II: Governors to Head BRAN at Provincial Level

The House of Representatives' Commission II has announced that governors will serve as heads of the National Agrarian Reform Agency (BRAN) at the provincial level under the forthcoming Agrarian Reform Regulation Bill. The bill, initiated by the DPR and approved as a House initiative, aims to improve land governance and prevent the public and regional governments from remaining bystanders in agrarian reform. Neglected land underutilised cultivation or building rights will be handed to regional governments and the people.

Indonesia, Bulgaria explore expanding food, agricultural markets

Indonesia and Bulgaria have held talks on expanding market access for agricultural and food products, with Indonesia offering cocoa, coconut, palm oil and halal products, and Bulgaria offering milk, beef, corn and wheat flour. Indonesia also invited Bulgarian investment in cattle farming and dairy processing to support the Free Nutritious Meal programme. Bilateral trade reached US$230.8 million in 2025, with Indonesia posting a US$64.2 million surplus, as the two nations mark 70 years of diplomatic ties in 2026.

Safe daily limits for sugar and salt according to health guidance

Indonesia's Ministry of Health recommends the 'G4 G1 L5' guideline, limiting daily sugar intake to a maximum of 50 grams (about four tablespoons) and salt to around 5 grams (one teaspoon) per person. The limits align with WHO recommendations on free sugars and sodium, which are linked to risks of weight gain, tooth decay, high blood pressure, heart disease and stroke.

Business Leaders' Hopes After Suahasil Becomes Finance Minister, Replacing Purbaya

Indonesian business associations, including Apindo and HIPMI, have welcomed the appointment of Suahasil Nazara as Finance Minister, replacing Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa. Apindo Chair Shinta Kamdani stressed the importance of a smooth transition that preserves fiscal credibility and investor confidence, while HIPMI urged the new minister to ensure fiscal policy translates into real economic activity.

Dompu Education Office Affirms 60 Former School Heads Remain Teachers

The Education, Youth and Sports Office of Dompu Regency, West Nusa Tenggara, has clarified that around 60 former school principals recently reassigned by Regent Bambang Firdaus retain their status as teachers. The confusion arose from a technical glitch in the BKN's integrated mutation application, which listed them as administrative staff rather than teachers.

Social Assistance Not Yet Disbursed Despite Being Registered? Here Are 8 Reasons Why

The Ministry of Social Affairs (Kemensos) has outlined eight reasons why beneficiaries registered for social assistance (bansos) may not yet have received their funds, including phased distribution, ongoing data updates via DTSEN, technical distribution failures, and verification suspensions. Around 1.49 million beneficiary families are temporarily suspended pending further data checks, whilst 580,000 of roughly 1.3 million failed distributions have been reprocessed. Beneficiaries are advised to check their status through the official Cek Bansos portal and update data via village governments or social affairs offices.

The Plight of KM Virgo 8 Victims' Families: Awaiting News from Across the Sea

Jiono, brother of missing crew member Agus Ribut Setyabudi, waits anxiously at Tanjung Perak port after KM Virgo Transport 8 capsized in the Java Sea on 13 September. The family, unable to afford travel to Banjarmasin, says the ship's operator PT Virgo Karya Shipping has only promised to 'try' to facilitate their journey. Of the 243 people aboard, 108 have been rescued alive, six have died and 129 remain missing.

Bekasi Mayor Pledges to Compensate Victims of Illegal Levies Twice Over

Bekasi Mayor Tri Adhianto Tjahyono has pledged to reimburse residents twice the amount paid in illegal levies, provided victims come forward and identify the culprits and agencies involved. The city government is currently processing the dismissal of five Transportation Agency employees implicated in similar practices, pending a decision from the National Civil Service Agency.

Deputy Minister of Cooperatives: Islamic Boarding Schools Have Great Potential to Develop Community Economy

Deputy Minister of Cooperatives Faridah Faricha said Islamic boarding schools (pesantren) hold great potential as a driver of the national economy, speaking at a forum at the Mambaul Maarif pesantren in Jombang. She noted that 49 per cent of pesantren already have registered businesses, and stressed that cooperatives are the ideal vehicle to translate the pesantren values of mutual assistance (ta'awun) into a healthy, professional and sustainable economic ecosystem.

Beware: New Scam Wave Rides on Latest iPhone Launch — Don't Buy Carelessly

Fraud syndicates have exploited the launch of Apple's newest iPhones, with fake retail websites in the UK offering steep discounts and over 700 unauthorised credit card complaints in Hong Kong linked to iPhone 18 pre-orders. Estimated losses in Hong Kong have reached around HK$14.7 million (roughly Rp33 billion). Security experts urge consumers to buy only through official channels and avoid direct bank transfers.

Why does the signal disappear in the middle of the sea? Here are seven causes

Losing signal at sea is not automatic but the result of several technical factors, including distance from shore-based transmitters, antenna height, atmospheric conditions and the characteristics of radio waves. Vessel position relative to obstacles and the type of communication equipment used also determine whether a connection can be maintained far from land.

256 Residents in Karangasem Suffer Kidney Failure, 76 Patients Queue for Dialysis at RSUD

Some 256 residents of Karangasem Regency have been diagnosed with kidney failure, placing significant strain on local health facilities. As many as 76 patients remain on a waiting list for dialysis at Karangasem Regional Hospital, where limited equipment and capacity are the main constraints.

Central Jakarta Mayor invites houses of worship to become unifying hubs

Central Jakarta Mayor Arifin has urged religious leaders and managers of houses of worship to make their places of worship hubs for uniting the community amid ethnic, cultural, racial and religious diversity. He stressed that religious leaders should promote narratives of brotherhood rather than division, and affirmed the municipal government's commitment to ensuring people can worship safely and comfortably.

Search Area for KM Virgo 8 Victims Expanded, KRI Canopus Deployed

Basarnas has nearly doubled the search area for victims of the capsized KM Virgo Transport 8 in the Java Sea to 4,600 nautical miles, divided into six sectors. The Indonesian Navy has deployed several vessels, including KRI Canopus with underwater search technology, as 129 of the 243 people on board remain missing.

UI academic urges Indonesia to adopt risk-based AI regulation

Parulian Paidi Aritonang, Dean of the University of Indonesia's Faculty of Law, has called for Indonesia to strengthen risk-based artificial intelligence regulation, citing the EU AI Act as a reference though not a blueprint. He noted Indonesia currently lacks a comprehensive AI law and that existing sectoral rules on electronic systems and personal data could serve as entry points for governance.

Indonesia on Alert Over Illegal Foreign Worker Schemes as Key Culprits Exposed

BRIN has revealed a significant gap between the permits held by foreign workers in Indonesia and their actual activities on the ground, with many entering legally but working outside the scope of their visas. The Ministry of Manpower warned that both employers and foreign workers face sanctions, from administrative measures to criminal prosecution, where violations are found. Inspectors also cited cases where Indonesian companion workers assigned for technology transfer existed only on paper.

Indonesia Needs a Proper Roadmap to Achieve 100 GW of Solar Power

The chairwoman of the Indonesian Solar Energy Association (AESI), Mada Ayu Habsari, says the government's 100 GW solar power target is achievable but requires a clear roadmap. Key obstacles include land availability, permitting inconsistencies between central and regional authorities, human resources, small-scale investment, and grid readiness.

Borneo and Kalimantan are in fact the same island — here is the history of the name

Borneo and Kalimantan refer to the same island, which is divided among Indonesia, Malaysia and Brunei, with Indonesia controlling roughly 73 per cent of its territory. The name Borneo is widely linked to Brunei in European usage, while Kalimantan gained prominence through the Indonesian national movement and was formalised as a province by PPKI on 19 August 1945. The origins of both names remain debated among historians.

Police match DNA of missing journalists with body found on Enggano

Banten Regional Police have provided antemortem DNA data from the families of missing journalists and crew of the Arupadathu 1 vessel to Bengkulu police, who are matching it against an unidentified body found on Enggano Island. The eight people, including five journalists, went missing after losing contact whilst covering volcanic activity at Mount Anak Krakatau on 7 September. The DNA results will confirm whether the body washed ashore on Enggano belongs to one of the missing passengers.

Indonesian Consulate in Chicago facilitates UMM-NIU education partnership

The Indonesian Consulate General in Chicago has facilitated an education and research partnership between the University of Muhammadiyah Malang (UMM) and Northern Illinois University (NIU), covering green energy, food security and environmental preservation. The collaboration forms part of Indonesia's education diplomacy in the American Midwest and implements the Statement of Mutual Cooperation signed with the State of Illinois.

25 Fortified Rice Brands Whose Contents Do Not Match Their Labels, Here Is the List

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman has officially announced 25 fortified rice brands whose nutritional contents do not match their packaging labels, based on laboratory tests by four credible institutions. He also criticised excessive pricing, with some brands sold at up to Rp57,000 per kilogram, far above the fair price of Rp13,500, harming vulnerable consumers such as pregnant women and stunted children.

Wife Refuses Autopsy on Australian National and Two Children Found Dead in Legian

The wife of an Australian man found dead alongside his two children in a Legian bungalow has refused autopsies on all three bodies, which were released to the family. The suspected perpetrator, aged 57, is believed to have suffocated and strangled his children before hanging himself. Police may issue an SP3, closing the investigation as the suspect is deceased.

Golkar Faction in DPR Replaces MKD Leadership

The Golkar faction has replaced its representative in the leadership of the House of Representatives' Honour Council (MKD), with Hasan Basri Agus taking over as deputy chair from Agung Widyantoro. The change was formalised during a plenary session at the Senayan parliamentary complex in Jakarta, following a letter from the Golkar faction dated 18 August 2026.

University of Indonesia students design energy-efficient room cooling prototype

Five physics students from the University of Indonesia have developed ADEM (Adaptive Energy-efficient Microclimate System), a room cooling prototype that combines stable underground temperatures with solar power. The system pre-cools air through buried PVC pipes before it enters a room, reducing the load on active cooling and cutting reliance on conventional electricity.

Journalists Missing in the Sunda Strait: Depok Police Chief Joins Prayers for Their Safety

Five journalists and three boat crew members went missing while covering the eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau in the Sunda Strait. The Depok Metro Police Chief, Kombes Christian Rony Putra, led a joint prayer at Al Wafa Mosque in Sawangan, Depok, offering moral support to the families awaiting news of their loved ones.

Economic Turnover at the 2026 National MTQ Projected to Reach Rp1.2 Trillion

The 31st National Musabaqah Tilawatil Qur'an (MTQ), held in Semarang from 11–20 September 2026, is projected to generate Rp1.2 trillion in economic turnover in Central Java, according to the provincial government and BPS. The boost spans accommodation, transport, consumption, trade and MSMEs, with 2,242 participants from 37 provinces attending.

Iran War Crisis: Costco Begins Rationing Kirkland Motor Oil

Retail giant Costco has begun rationing its Kirkland Signature full synthetic 5W-30 motor oil, limiting members to two purchases every seven days amid the Iran conflict. Prices have surged from around US$30 to US$58 per ten quarts, as the closure of the Strait of Hormuz disrupts global crude supply and pushes up fuel and petroleum-derived product costs. A CBS News/YouGov poll shows 69 per cent of Americans believe the conflict with Iran is not worth the economic burden.

Telkomsel's New Way to Keep Customers Loyal, Partnering with This Listed Company

Telkomsel has partnered with PT Mitra Adiperkasa Tbk (MAP) to offer customers direct access to MAPrivilege lifestyle benefits via the MyTelkomsel app. Eligible customers, including Halo+ Optima, Simpati package buyers and IndiHome users, can also redeem Telkomsel Poin for MAP offers. The collaboration links Telkomsel's digital ecosystem with MAP's lifestyle retail network.

Monas to host parade of 520 vehicles for 81st TNI anniversary

The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) will showcase 520 units of military equipment and vehicles in a parade at the National Monument (Monas) in Jakarta on 5 October 2026 to mark its 81st anniversary. The display comprises 420 TNI vehicles and 100 vintage or non-TNI vehicles, intended to educate the public on the military's weaponry.

Food Affairs Coordinating Minister: 6,000 hectares of North Java Coast ponds ready for revitalisation

Coordinating Minister for Food Affairs Zulkifli Hasan said around 6,000 hectares of unproductive ponds along Java's northern coast are ready for revitalisation, out of an initial target of 20,000 hectares, with land ownership issues still being resolved elsewhere. The programme, led by the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries, aims to restore abandoned aquaculture ponds as a national priority. An agreement covering some 20,413 hectares across Bekasi, Karawang, Subang and Indramayu was reached with West Java in June 2025.

List of National Holidays and Collective Leave Days in the 2027 Three-Ministerial Decree: How Many Days for Eid?

The Indonesian government has issued the Three-Ministerial Joint Decree (SKB 3 Menteri) on national holidays and collective leave for 2027, setting out 18 national holidays and 8 collective leave days. Signed by the Religious Affairs Minister, Manpower Minister and Minister of Administrative Reform, the decree allocates five consecutive days off around Eid al-Fitr, enabling a potential ten-day long weekend.

Complete List of Pegadaian Gold Prices, 15 September 2026: Antam, Galeri24 and UBS

Gold bar prices at PT Pegadaian (Persero) varied in trading on 15 September 2026, with Antam gold the highest at Rp2,631,000 per gram. UBS gold was offered at Rp2,566,000 per gram and Galeri24 at Rp2,541,000 per gram. The price differences between brands are influenced by minting costs and stock availability across Pegadaian's distribution regions.

Trend of Commissioners and Directors Resigning, from HUMI, GOTO, DSSA, and now MKNT

Resignations of board commissioners and directors at companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange have become increasingly common, particularly ahead of shareholders' general meetings. Companies affected include Humpuss Maritim Internasional, GoTo Gojek Tokopedia, Mitrabahtera Segara Sejati, Dian Swastatika Sentosa, and Mitra Komunikasi Nusantara.

KPK summons two Customs and Excise officials as witnesses

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned two officials from the Directorate General of Customs and Excise at the Finance Ministry to be questioned as witnesses in an alleged corruption case. The case stems from a sting operation conducted in February 2026, with eight suspects already named, including regional customs heads and executives of freight company Blueray Cargo.

Coordinating Minister for Human Development Highlights Dangers of Sugar, Salt and Fat to Boost Healthy Life Expectancy

Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture Pratikno has stressed the need for tighter supervision of sugar, salt and fat (GGL) content in processed foods and medicines to raise Indonesia's healthy active life expectancy. BPOM Head Taruna Ikrar noted that the pharmaceutical and food sectors cover some 4.3 million businesses with an economic turnover of Rp6,000–8,000 trillion annually, making credible oversight a driver of the national economy.

Knowing He Would Be Removed as Finance Minister, Purbaya: It Was About 50-50

Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa said he anticipated his dismissal as finance minister, putting the odds at roughly 50-50 before the official announcement. He received a phone call from State Secretary Minister Prasetyo Hadi, and described the change as part of the president's prerogative. He added that around 350 ministry officials appointed under his tenure remain in post, though the new minister may alter the decisions.

Supreme Court Upholds Acquittal of Lawyer Junaedi Saibih in CPO Bribery Case

The Supreme Court has rejected the prosecutor's cassation appeal, upholding the Corruption Court's acquittal of advocate Junaedi Saibih in a alleged CPO bribery and obstruction of justice case. The judges found no evidence of a meeting of minds proving his involvement in bribing judges handling the cooking oil corruption case.

Polda Metro Jaya receives audience from DKI Jakarta regional council to strengthen communication

Metro Jaya Regional Police Chief Commissioner Asep Edi Suheri received a delegation from the DKI Jakarta Regional Legislative Council (DPRD) led by Speaker Suhud Alynudin. The meeting aimed to strengthen inter-institutional synergy and coordination between the police and the council for the benefit of Jakarta residents.

Business Community Hopes Suahasil Nazara Will Safeguard Fiscal Credibility and the State Budget

The Indonesian business community, led by Apindo chair Shinta Widjaja Kamdani, has welcomed Suahasil Nazara's appointment as Finance Minister, expressing hope that he will preserve fiscal credibility and policy continuity. His long tenure at the Finance Ministry, including as Deputy Minister and head of the Fiscal Policy Agency, is seen as vital for maintaining investor confidence amid global uncertainty. Suahasil officially took over from Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa on 15 September 2026 under Presidential Decree No. 97 P of 2026.

After Virgo Transport 8 Tragedy, DPR Calls for Evaluation of Ship Safety Regulations

A member of Commission V of the House of Representatives, Hamka B. Kady, has urged a comprehensive review of maritime safety regulations following the capsizing of KMP Virgo Transport 8 in the Java Sea, which left six dead and 129 still missing. He called on the Ministry of Transport to disclose the vessel's last inspection results and questioned the adequacy of lifeboats and safety equipment. KNKT data shows 46 Ro-Ro accidents in Indonesian waters between 2003 and August 2026.

Danantara Responds to Rumours It Will Hold 40% of IDX Shares After Demutualisation

Danantara, Indonesia's sovereign investment management body, has denied that circulating reports of a planned 40.12% stake in the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) represent a final decision. The demutualisation process remains ongoing, with due diligence having been conducted from 11 August to 11 September 2026 and the body still awaiting applicable OJK regulations. If realised through a rights issue, the move would reduce exchange members' collective holding to 51.16%.

DKI integrates family programmes into Satyagatra

Jakarta's PPAPP agency has integrated various family-related programmes into the Satyagatra Family Welfare Service Centre (PPKS) to build resilient families. The initiative offers services including child counselling, pre-marital counselling, adolescent counselling, family planning and reproductive health advice, and family economic empowerment.

Coalition Strengthened Through Discussion of the Electoral Law

The Central Executive Board of the Golkar Party received a visit from the Prosperous Justice Party (PKS) to deepen coalition ties and support the Prabowo-Gibran government. The two parties agreed to cooperate on Palestine advocacy, MSME empowerment, energy sovereignty, and deliberation of the draft Electoral Law. Secretary-Generals Muhammad Sarmuji and Muhammad Kholid were appointed to detail the future cooperation.

A Wealth of Expectations from the Business World Rests on the Shoulders of Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara

Indonesian business associations, including Apindo, Kadin and HIPMI, have expressed optimism over the appointment of Suahasil Nazara as Finance Minister, calling for investment bottlenecks to be dismantled and fiscal policy to avoid raising the cost of doing business. Analysts view the appointment as a signal of fiscal continuity, but Suahasil faces the twin challenge of supporting growth with limited fiscal space while maintaining the credibility of the state budget.

Depok Public Order Agency Raids Five Liquor Shops, 1,972 Bottles Seized

Depok's Public Order Agency (Satpol PP) seized 1,972 bottles of alcoholic drinks from shops across four districts, acting on direct instructions from Mayor Supian Suri. The raid, carried out following residents' reports and regional regulations, targeted shops allegedly selling liquor illegally in Cimanggis, Cilodong, Pancoran Mas and Cipayung.

Marine Affairs Ministry Estimates Around Rp10 Trillion Needed for 1,269 Red and White Fisher Villages in 2026

The Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries estimates that developing 1,269 Red and White Fisher Villages (KNMP) in 2026 will require roughly Rp10 trillion. Minister Sakti Wahyu Trenggono said costs vary by location, with hub-type villages estimated at Rp8–11 billion each and supporting villages at Rp3–5 billion, though the total figure still requires detailed recalculation.

Thousands Still Missing as Flood Recovery Begins in Nepal

Nearly three weeks after devastating flash floods along Nepal's Bhotekoshi-Trishuli river system, authorities have recovered at least 1,386 bodies while more than 5,130 people remain missing, including 587 foreign nationals and around 900 energy workers. Early assessments put reconstruction needs at some 723.3 billion Nepalese rupees, with hydropower — the backbone of Nepal's power supply and a growing export earner — among the hardest-hit sectors. Nepal is seeking international support and positioning the rebuild around climate-resilient infrastructure, while pressing climate justice arguments at the UN.

25 Fortified Rice Brands Found Fraudulent, Losses Reach Rp89 Trillion

Minister of Agriculture and Head of the National Food Agency Andi Amran Sulaiman announced that 25 fortified rice brands allegedly failed to meet the nutritional content stated on their labels, with consumer losses estimated at Rp89 trillion. The government has ordered product withdrawals, licence revocations and legal proceedings against those involved. Extreme price disparities were also found, with rice meant to sell at Rp13,000–13,500 per kilogram reaching Rp57,000 per kilogram in some markets.

At Handover Ceremony, Purbaya Expresses Gratitude and Entrusts Finance Minister Post to Suahasil

Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa formally handed over the position of Finance Minister to Suahasil Nazara at a ceremony at the Finance Ministry offices in Jakarta on 15 September 2026. Suahasil, previously Deputy Finance Minister, was appointed by President Prabowo Subianto and becomes the third finance minister of the current administration.

National Police Evacuate Two Bodies of Virgo Transport 8 Victims, Handed Directly to DVI Team

Indonesian National Police (Polri) evacuated two bodies from the KM Virgo Transport 8 disaster using a Dauphin helicopter from waters south of Banjarmasin, handing them to the Disaster Victim Identification (DVI) team. As of Tuesday morning, 114 of the 243 people aboard had been found — 108 alive and six dead — while 129 remain missing. Polri, together with Basarnas, continues search operations by air and sea.

Bahlil Likens Current Global Geopolitical Conditions to Malaria

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has compared today's uncertain global geopolitical climate to malaria, recurring despite ongoing negotiations. With national fuel consumption at 1.6 million barrels per day against domestic production of around 600,000 bph, Indonesia must import roughly 1 million bph, prompting the government to shift crude procurement towards Africa, Angola and Russia. Bahlil pledged that subsidised fuel prices will not rise before 31 December 2026.

Purbaya's Brief Message to Suahasil Nazara, Who Replaces Him as Finance Minister

Suahasil Nazara officially received the post of Finance Minister from Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa in a handover ceremony at the Finance Ministry office in Jakarta on Tuesday, 15 September 2026, one day after being sworn in by President Prabowo Subianto. Purbaya deliberately kept his farewell remarks short, thanking ministry staff for their cooperation over the past year. Suahasil expressed appreciation for the legacy he inherited and asked stakeholders to continue supporting the ministry's work for the remainder of the Merah Putih Cabinet's 2024–2029 term.

Wife Hears 'Stop Daddy' Before Australian National Kills 2 Children and Himself in Bali

An Australian man, SDJ (56), is suspected of killing his two young children before taking his own life at a bungalow in Legian, Kuta, Badung, Bali. His wife, who was in Jakarta at the time, reportedly heard one of the children crying and her daughter pleading 'stop, Daddy' during a phone call to her husband shortly before the bodies were discovered.

iPhone Duo set to become a product line as Apple prepares Max and SE variants

Apple is reportedly planning to expand the iPhone Duo into a full product line, including a larger Max model, a smaller mini version, and an affordable SE variant. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman suggests strong demand could drive grey-market resales and push foldable phones into the mainstream, prompting other manufacturers to increase investment in the segment.

After Handover Ceremony, Suahasil Sends Team to DPR to Continue Deliberations on the 2027 Draft State Budget

Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara has immediately continued work on the 2027 draft state budget (RAPBN) with the House of Representatives following his handover ceremony with predecessor Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa. A Finance Ministry team has been dispatched to meet the House Budget Committee, while coordination with financial authorities under the Financial System Stability Committee, including BI, OJK and LPS, will continue.

Automatic bank accounts at 17: here is the government's plan

The Indonesian government is preparing a policy to automatically provide bank accounts to citizens aged 17 who hold an ID card, as part of efforts to broaden financial inclusion. The scheme involves BRI and BSI, includes an initial balance of Rp50,000 from the state budget, and is targeted to launch before the end of 2026.

Purbaya Admits Frustration at Being Removed as Finance Minister

Former Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa admitted feeling frustrated and losing sleep after being dismissed from his post on Monday (14/9), though he accepted the decision as the President's prerogative. He formally handed over the position to Suahasil Nazara on Tuesday (15/9/2026), who now leads the Finance Ministry in the Red-and-White Cabinet.

Global Fuel Crisis: US Oil Executive Warns of Acute Shortage

US oil executives have warned that the long-feared global fuel crisis has arrived, with the prolonged closure of the Strait of Hormuz and attacks on Middle Eastern distribution routes draining world energy reserves to a critical point. Chevron CEO Mike Wirth said mitigation buffers are nearly exhausted, whilst record diesel prices and rising petrol costs pressure consumers. Indonesian markets have felt the fallout, with the rupiah weakening to Rp17,611 per dollar and Brent crude surging past US$105.

Viva Yoga elected chair of KCI advisory board, ready to fight for musicians' royalty rights

Deputy Minister of Transmigration Viva Yoga Mauladi has been unanimously elected chair of the advisory board of Karya Cipta Indonesia (KCI), the collective management organisation for music royalties. He pledged to push for a revision of the 2014 Copyright Law to ensure fairer governance of royalties across the music ecosystem, benefiting creators, rights holders and commercial users alike.

Why the Unchecked AI Race Could Become a Threat to Humanity

A researcher at AI firm Anthropic has resigned in protest at what he calls an irresponsible race towards superintelligence, warning that self-improving algorithms could spiral out of control within years. Prominent figures including Geoffrey Hinton and Yoshua Bengio have long called for strict regulation, yet under the Trump administration the US is moving in the opposite direction, cutting regulatory barriers. While some experts dismiss doomsday scenarios as overblown, others point to more immediate dangers such as disinformation, mass surveillance and autonomous cyberattacks.

ESG Commitment: Trans Mall Group Inaugurates Rooftop Solar Power Installations

Trans Mall Group has completed rooftop solar photovoltaic installations across all 16 of its locations, making it one of the largest rooftop solar installations in Indonesia. The 12.34 MWp system, developed with Xurya and backed by the CT Corp–Mitsui & Co. partnership, is expected to generate around 16.8 GWh of clean electricity annually and cut electricity costs by 8–10 per cent per year.

Early party: the party trend that ends before midnight

The 'early party' trend, which starts in the late afternoon or early evening and ends before midnight, is gaining traction in Jakarta and beyond. Venues such as Above30Club at Vault Jakarta and Naaga Bar in Menteng have hosted events catering to office workers, parents and those prioritising sleep and work-life balance.

Inter-Island Connectivity Increasingly Strategic, Maritime Transport Safety Must Be Strengthened

Following the sinking of KMP Virgo Transport 8 in the Java Sea, maritime experts have urged a comprehensive safety review rather than rushing to blame the vessel's age. Rakhmatika Ardianto of the Indonesian Transport Society (MTI) stressed that accident causes must await a full investigation by the National Transportation Safety Committee (KNKT). He called for better enforcement across the entire safety chain, including weighing overloaded vehicles before they board ferries.

Bekasi City Police Gather 127 Principals to Strengthen the Jaga Pelajar Programme

The Bekasi City Metro Police convened 127 state and private vocational school principals to strengthen the Jaga Pelajar programme, addressing juvenile delinquency and street brawls. Police officers will act as 'Bapak Asuh' (mentor figures) for each vocational class, coordinating closely with teachers and parents to detect students' problems early.

Purbaya's Plans After Stepping Down as Finance Minister: Becoming a Trader?

Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has officially left the post of Finance Minister after one year, handing over to Suahasil Nazara, who was sworn in by President Prabowo Subianto. Rather than returning to government, Purbaya says he intends to enjoy retirement, fishing and tending fish at home, while acknowledging trading has long been one of his skills.

Nezar cites fisheries technology in Maros as proof of impactful connectivity

Deputy Minister of Communication and Digital Nezar Patria highlighted residents of Maros Regency, South Sulawesi, who use digital technology to manage brackish-water aquaculture, as concrete evidence of connectivity delivering real impact. Speaking at the opening of Rural ICT Camp 2026, he said data collected by communities enables rapid climate mitigation and hopes the model can be replicated across Indonesia.

Bulgaria Ready to Boost Investment and Food Technology Transfer in Indonesia

Indonesia and Bulgaria have explored investment and technology cooperation in the agriculture and food sectors following a meeting between the Coordinating Minister for Food and Bulgaria's Deputy Prime Minister and Economy Minister. Bulgaria offered investment, technology transfer and food commodities such as milk, beef, corn and wheat flour, while Indonesia opened investment opportunities in cattle farming and milk processing. Both countries also view each other as strategic gateways to European and Southeast Asian markets respectively.

Amran Furious: Substandard Fortified Rice Allegedly Costs the Public Rp 89 Trillion

Agriculture Minister and National Food Agency head Amran Sulaiman revealed that consumers may have lost Rp 89 trillion to fortified rice sold at inflated prices but failing laboratory standards. Of 27 brands tested, 25 were found non-compliant, with one product retailing at Rp 57,600 per kg against a fair price of about Rp 13,500. The government is preparing firm action, including market withdrawals and licence revocations.

The Busok Cat: A Native Madura Breed with Seven Unique Characteristics

The Busok, or Raas, cat is a distinctive breed originating from Raas Island off the coast of Sumenep, Madura, East Java. Locals maintain traditional rules restricting its export—only neutered males may leave the island—and enthusiasts are campaigning for its recognition as an indigenous Indonesian breed. Its bluish-grey coat, dark green eyes and bent tail make it easily recognisable.

Absorbing Geopolitical Risk from the Strait of Hormuz Crisis

The closure of the Strait of Hormuz has exposed Indonesia's hidden vulnerabilities, with Brent crude up 27% and gas up 74%, despite subsidies shielding consumers from immediate price shocks. Rather than avoiding the costs, the state has effectively converted geopolitical risk into domestic fiscal obligations through subsidies and compensation, risking a budget deficit above 3% of GDP if high oil prices persist. The article argues Indonesia needs intelligence-linked vulnerability metrics, as strategic dependence on Gulf-linked inputs is worth around US$9.6 billion—nearly 600 times larger than annual expected trade-at-risk estimates.

Day 8 of Search for Missing Journalists in the Sunda Strait: 20 Vessels Deployed

Some 20 vessels have been deployed on the eighth day of the search and rescue operation for five journalists and three boat crew who went missing in the Sunda Strait whilst covering Mount Anak Krakatau. The joint SAR team has extended the operation by a further three days after the seventh day yielded no results. The search covers an area of 3,962 square nautical miles divided into five sectors.

Raw Materials for Free Nutritious Meal Programme Discussed at RI-Bulgaria Meeting — These Are the Commodities

Indonesia and Bulgaria held talks on supplying raw materials for the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme, with Bulgaria offering milk, beef, maize and wheat flour to the Indonesian market. Coordinating Food Minister Zulkifli Hasan met Bulgarian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Poulev, with Indonesia in turn offering investment opportunities in cattle farming and dairy processing, alongside exports of cocoa, coconut, palm oil and halal products.

Video: Offshore Vessel Business Strategy Targets Deep-Sea Oil and Gas Projects

Wintermar Offshore Marine views the government's drive to accelerate new oil and gas exploration as vital to boosting national production. The company is preparing to meet offshore vessel demand for around five oil and gas projects expected in 2026, including ENI's deep-water developments off East Kalimantan, by chartering or purchasing second-hand vessels as new builds take roughly two years.

Vice President Gibran urges Bulgaria to become gateway for Indonesian products to Europe

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming hosted Bulgarian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Poulev in Jakarta to strengthen bilateral ties ahead of the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations. Talks focused on trade and investment, with Indonesia positioning Bulgaria as a gateway for its products into the EU market of some 450 million consumers. Indonesia also sought Bulgarian support for concluding the IEU-CEPA and cooperation in food, technology and the creative economy.

Fahd Arafiq Caught in KPK Sting Operation, Here Is Golkar Secretary-General's Response

Golkar Secretary-General M Sarmuji says the party will let the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) process Golkar executive Fahd Arafiq through the legal system after he was detained in a sting operation at the Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning. The KPK says Fahd's testimony is needed to help establish the chronology of an alleged corruption case under investigation. Golkar says it will wait for legal developments before taking action against its cadre.

Eight advantages of the MacBook over Windows laptops, what are they?

MacBooks offer distinct advantages over Windows laptops, including efficient Apple silicon chips, long battery life and deep integration with the iPhone and the wider Apple ecosystem. However, Windows machines remain the better choice for some users, particularly gamers or those dependent on Windows-only software.

Basnang Said Becomes Indonesia's First Director-General of Islamic Boarding Schools: A Profile

Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar has inaugurated Basnang Said as the country's first Director-General of Pesantren, heading a newly established echelon-I unit at the Ministry of Religious Affairs. The new directorate, created under Presidential Regulation No. 18 of 2026, gives Islamic boarding school affairs a dedicated institutional structure. The minister has set a 100-day target for the new directorate to deliver tangible changes for the pesantren community.

KPK begins summoning witnesses in suspected corruption case over Unsoed student admissions

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has begun questioning witnesses, including senior Unsoed officials, over alleged corruption in new student admissions. The case follows a sting operation that led to the arrest of the university's rector and several associates, who are accused of extorting parents up to hundreds of millions of rupiah. Alleged proceeds were used to buy land registered under a relative's name.

Government Holds Pertalite Price Amid Global Oil Turmoil, Economist Reveals Inflation Impact

Academics have backed Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia's decision to hold Pertalite prices as global energy prices climb, warning that a fuel price rise could trigger uncontrolled inflation and erode public purchasing power. Economists acknowledge the policy will swell subsidy costs in the state budget but argue stability must take priority. Some predict subsidies could be reduced next year as geopolitical conditions ease.

North Sulawesi Governor Tells DPR That Overlapping HGU Rights Are Blocking Likupang Super-Priority Destination Development

North Sulawesi Governor Yulius Selvanus told the DPR's Commission II that land designated for the Likupang super-priority tourism destination overlaps with plantation concession rights (HGU) held by PTP, leaving it the only one of Indonesia's five super-priority destinations yet to be developed. He said the HGU permits in question have already expired and that repeated reports to the central government have gone unresolved. Commission II chair Rifqinizamy Karsayuda pledged to form a joint team with the ATR/BPN Minister to inventory expired concessions and explore schemes such as reissuing HGU through regional enterprises or granting management rights.

Amran: 25 fortified rice brands found fraudulent, consumers estimated to have lost Rp89 trillion

Agriculture Minister and National Food Agency head Andi Amran Sulaiman has revealed that 25 fortified rice brands allegedly failed to meet label claims, with estimated consumer losses of Rp89 trillion. The government has ordered product withdrawals and licence revocations, and is processing the parties involved according to law. Laboratory tests showed fortified content did not match labels, while prices reached up to Rp57,000 per kilogram against an expected Rp13,000–13,500.

Police Uncover Crystal Meth Network in Buleleng, 117 Packets Ready for Distribution Seized

The anti-narcotics unit of Buleleng Police in Bali has dismantled a crystal methamphetamine network, seizing 117 ready-to-distribute packets from two suspects. The case began with the arrest of a low-level courier in Tejakula, which led investigators to two higher-level suspects in Penarukan village.

iPhone features that connect with Mac and Apple Watch

Apple's Continuity features allow iPhone, Mac and Apple Watch to work as an integrated ecosystem without additional apps. Key functions include Handoff for continuing tasks across devices, Universal Clipboard, AirDrop, using the iPhone as a Mac camera, and unlocking a Mac with an Apple Watch. Device compatibility, matching Apple Accounts, and Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity are required.

Truck carrying 15-tonne load skids off Bekasi Raya Cakung main road

A container truck carrying a load of over 15 tonnes skidded onto a roadside median and nearly overturned on Jalan Raya Bekasi, Cakung, East Jakarta, on Tuesday morning. The driver was reportedly drowsy and panicked while trying to avoid a vehicle ahead. No casualties were reported, though traffic in the area was temporarily disrupted.

Kills Friend After Being Taunted With Parents' Names, Man Sentenced to 13 Years in Prison

The Supreme Court has rejected the prosecutor's cassation appeal and upheld a 13-year prison sentence for Distranito (19), convicted of murdering his friend in August 2025. The killing followed an argument in which the victim mocked the defendant using his parents' names, prompting a knife duel that ended fatally. The Court found the lower courts had applied the law correctly and that the sentence met standards of justice.

Another US$27 billion needed to pursue a life expectancy of 76 years

Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin said Indonesia still needs around US$26–27 billion over five years to complete its national health system transformation and meet President Prabowo Subianto's targets of a 76-year life expectancy and 65-year healthy life expectancy. Of the US$223 billion total required, some US$203 billion has been provided by the government and system, leaving the gap to be filled by global partners and philanthropists.

What does True Tone on the iPhone actually do, and is it really good for the eyes?

Apple's True Tone feature uses ambient light sensors to adjust the iPhone screen's colour and intensity so that images appear more natural in different lighting conditions. However, the feature is not a medical one and does not protect against digital eye strain, which is linked to prolonged screen use. Users should combine sensible screen habits, such as regular breaks and appropriate brightness, with settings like True Tone or Night Shift depending on their needs.

TNI marks 81st anniversary with competitions across 61 sports

The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) will celebrate its 81st anniversary by staging the Panglima TNI Cup from 1 August to 10 October 2026, featuring 61 sporting and 11 non-sporting disciplines. Beyond the competitions, the anniversary programme includes a public fun run, a TNI Fair at Monas with defence equipment exhibitions, and the distribution of 15,000 staple food packages and 30,000 free meals to the public.

List of Officials Caught in KPK Sting Operation Over Building Rights Permit Processing

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) arrested 17 people in a sting operation at the Bogor Regency National Land Agency office, allegedly linked to bribes over the processing of building use rights (HGB). Among those detained are senior officials from the Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning, a Golkar politician and a top executive of PT Summarecon Agung Tbk. The KPK seized around 20 suitcases and boxes of cash, estimated to total hundreds of billions of rupiah.

441 HIV Cases Detected in Bontang, City Government Expands Screening Among Vulnerable Groups

The Bontang City Government in East Kalimantan has reported 441 detected HIV cases and is expanding screening among high-risk groups. The initiative aims to enable early detection so patients can promptly receive medical support and antiretroviral (ARV) treatment, while the government also works to reduce stigma against people living with HIV.

Suahasil Nazara Appointed Finance Minister in Bid to Safeguard Fiscal Credibility

President Prabowo Subianto has appointed Suahasil Nazara as Finance Minister, replacing Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa, in what analysts see as a strategic effort to maintain continuity and credibility of fiscal policy. As a technocrat with long experience at the Finance Ministry, including as Deputy Minister since 2019 and former head of the Fiscal Policy Agency, Suahasil is expected to manage deficit control and revenue improvement amid market pressures.

Asset Forfeiture Bill: Why is it important for fighting corruption?

The Asset Forfeiture Bill, under discussion for over a decade, has been prioritised again in 2026 with the House of Representatives targeting its completion by December 2026. The bill would strengthen the recovery of criminal proceeds through non-conviction based forfeiture, complementing existing corruption and money laundering laws and Indonesia's commitment to the UN Convention Against Corruption. Civil society groups support the bill but stress the need for transparency and safeguards against arbitrary asset seizure.

Heavy Rain in Hainan Province Forces Evacuation of More Than 55,000 People

Authorities in China's Hainan Province have evacuated more than 55,000 people amid prolonged heavy rainfall and flooding. The province's meteorological bureau recorded rainfall exceeding 700 millimetres in six locations, with the highest at 912.9 millimetres in Xiangshui. Fire and rescue services have deployed around 60 vehicles and over 400 personnel to the affected areas.

Pelti Admits Deliberately Withdrawing Janice Tjen from the 2026 Asian Games for the Sake of the Australian Open

The central board of the Indonesian Tennis Association (Pelti) has confirmed that Janice Tjen's absence from the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Games is a deliberate strategy to protect her WTA ranking and secure a main-draw berth at the 2027 Australian Open. The decision, coordinated with the Minister of Youth and Sports, follows failed negotiations with the WTA over its zero-point rule, with Pelti prioritising Olympic qualification as the ultimate goal.

Replacing Sugar with Stevia: What Are the Effects of Long-Term Consumption?

Stevia, a natural sweetener extracted from the Stevia rebaudiana plant, offers intense sweetness with far fewer calories than table sugar and is considered safe by the US FDA and the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives. However, the WHO cautions that non-sugar sweeteners should not be the main strategy for long-term weight control, and consumers should remain mindful of product compositions. Indonesia also holds considerable potential for stevia cultivation, particularly on idle and suboptimal land at altitudes of 700–1,500 metres above sea level.

Basarnas Opens Option to Sink Wreck of KM Virgo to Prevent It Drifting

The National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas) is considering sinking the capsized wreck of KM Virgo Transport 8 in the Java Sea to stop it drifting and to facilitate the search for missing victims. The wreck has already shifted about 2.9 km from the original incident site. Of the 243 people on board, 114 have been found while 129 remain missing.

Video: Houthis Attack Saudi Arabia - Suahasil Nazara Becomes New Finance Minister

China has called for restraint and dialogue amid the conflict between the Houthis and Saudi Arabia. Meanwhile, President Prabowo Subianto reshuffled the Red and White Cabinet, replacing Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa with Suahasil Nazara, who was sworn in on Monday, 14 September 2026.

Video: The Role of Reliable Connectivity in Accelerating Business Transformation in the AI Era

Digital economic growth driven by artificial intelligence is seen as a key engine of Indonesia's national economy, requiring reliable and secure connectivity infrastructure. Alcatel-Lucent Enterprise Indonesia, which has operated in the country for 40 years, is strengthening network infrastructure to support digital transformation across sectors including transport, government, education, tourism and manufacturing. Country Manager Novse Hardiman notes that around 40% of industries have adopted AI, creating demand for robust, secure and automated network solutions.

DPR Places Great Hopes in New Finance Minister Suahasil

Suahasil Nazara was sworn in as Finance Minister, replacing Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa, with the handover ceremony held at the Finance Ministry office and attended by senior officials and business figures. Members of the DPR expressed confidence that his background as a technocrat and academic makes him well suited to safeguard the state fiscal position and improve the credibility of fiscal policy.

List of the Latest iOS 27 Features, iPhone Users in Indonesia Can Now Update

Apple has released iOS 27 to iPhone users in Indonesia, following its debut alongside the iPhone Duo, iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max. The update prioritises child safety features, including Child Accounts, Ask to Browse web filtering and enhanced communication safeguards, alongside a Liquid Glass redesign and significant performance improvements. The update extends support as far back as the iPhone 11 and the second-generation iPhone SE.

Metro Jaya Police Chief Receives Audience with Jakarta DPRD Leadership

The Metro Jaya Police Chief, Commissioner General Asep Edi Suheri, hosted the leadership of the Jakarta Regional Legislative Council (DPRD DKI) at police headquarters in a meeting aimed at strengthening inter-institutional communication. The discussion covered matters of shared concern, with both sides expressing hope that closer coordination would benefit Jakarta residents.

US Scraps Greenhouse Gas Rules for Power Plants

The Trump administration's EPA has repealed Biden-era limits on carbon emissions from coal and gas-fired power plants, calling it the largest power sector deregulatory action ever. The repealed rules had required plants to cut CO2 emissions by up to 90 per cent or shut down by 2039, and the EPA expects coal production for power to rise more than tenfold. Environmental groups have vowed to challenge the move in court, arguing the agency's legal justifications are contradictory.

Agriculture Minister Reveals Alleged Fortified Rice Fraud, Popular Brands Dragged In

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman has estimated losses of Rp 89 trillion from alleged fraud in fortified rice, after government laboratory tests found around 90 percent of products did not match their labels. Rice intended for vulnerable groups and priced at roughly Rp 13,000 per kilogram was reportedly sold at up to Rp 57,000. The government has ordered product withdrawals, licence revocations and legal proceedings, with police and consumer bodies following up.

Ten ways to manage your holiday budget without going broke

With domestic tourism activity remaining high—BPS recorded 105.98 million domestic tourist trips in December 2025, up 4.84 per cent year-on-year—planning a holiday budget has become increasingly important to avoid overspending. This guide offers ten practical steps, from setting a maximum budget and separating pre-trip and on-trip costs to tracking daily expenses and avoiding debt-financed holidays.

Former Kebumen Regent Arief Sugiyanto Also Caught in KPK Sting Operation at Bogor Regency Land Office

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has detained 17 people, including former Kebumen Regent Arief Sugiyanto, in a sting operation at the Bogor and Tangerang Land Offices over alleged corruption in building rights title (HGB) processing. Those detained also include a director-general at the Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning and the heads of both land offices. All detainees remain under investigation whilst the KPK has 24 hours to determine their legal status.

IHSG Weakens 0.76% in First Session, Here's Why

Indonesia's composite index (IHSG) fell 0.76% to 6,484.92 in Tuesday's first trading session, weighed down by financial, energy and utility stocks. Investor attention is focused on the change of finance minister from Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa to Suahasil Nazara, alongside Middle East tensions and the upcoming Federal Reserve meeting.

New Hope for Vision: Cell Rejuvenation Therapy for Eye Cells Enters Clinical Trials

Life Biosciences has administered the first dose of ER-100, an experimental therapy based on partial epigenetic reprogramming, to patients in a Phase 1 clinical trial. The therapy aims to restore function in ageing or damaged retinal ganglion cells in patients with glaucoma and NAION, though it remains investigational and its efficacy in humans is unproven.

Observer Says VP Gibran's Handling of MBG and Forest Fires Proves the Government's Presence

A University of Indonesia communication analyst has praised Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka's working visits to victims of the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) poisoning in North Sumatra and to fire-stricken Kalimantan, calling them proof that the government is present during disasters. Ari Junaedi said Gibran's willingness to apologise to victims and arrange follow-up treatment in Jakarta counters criticism that the vice president is inactive. He added that the visits would carry greater weight if they led to concrete policies for future crises.

Land prices in Indonesia keep rising: here are the 8 causes

Land and property prices in Indonesia continue to climb, driven by limited land availability, population growth, infrastructure development and rising demand for housing. Bank Indonesia's Residential Property Price Index grew just 0.83 per cent year-on-year in the fourth quarter of 2025, showing price growth is uneven and depends heavily on location and local market conditions.

KADI initiates antidumping investigation into imports of galvanised steel

The Indonesian Anti-Dumping Committee (KADI) has opened an antidumping investigation into imports of galvanised (zinc-coated) steel sheet from China, following a petition by domestic producers PT Tata Metal Lestari and PT Arcelormittal Nippon Steel Indonesia. KADI found that rising Chinese imports, which accounted for about 81 percent of Indonesia's total BJLS imports of 2.56 million metric tonnes between January 2023 and December 2025, have harmed the domestic industry. The investigation may last up to 12 months, extendable to 18.

CCTV Reveals Final Moments as Australian National Chased Child Before Killings in Legian

Police have examined CCTV footage from a bungalow in Legian, Badung, Bali, showing an Australian father, SDJ (56), pursuing his four-year-old daughter before allegedly killing her and her six-year-old brother, then taking his own life. The footage shows the girl crying out 'I love you, Daddy' as she attempted to flee, and the man deliberately turning the camera away before his suicide.

The Era of High Interest Rates Returns, 7 World Central Banks Raise Rates

Rising global oil prices above US$100 per barrel following renewed US-Iran tensions have revived inflationary pressures, prompting central banks worldwide to tighten monetary policy. Seven central banks, including the Federal Reserve, ECB, and central banks of New Zealand, South Korea and the Philippines, have raised rates in anticipation of the Fed's expected 25 basis point hike this week. Analysts see this as the start of a new chapter of global monetary tightening after the easing cycle that began in mid-2023.

Dengue Cases in Klaten Fall Sharply in 2026, Health Office Urges Residents to Stay Vigilant

Dengue fever cases in Klaten Regency have fallen sharply to 131 cases with one death by week 36 of 2026, compared with 448 cases and three deaths in the same period last year. The local Health Office credits community awareness of mosquito nest eradication and the role of village-level larva monitors, but urges residents to maintain environmental cleanliness to prevent a resurgence.

Suahasil: Mr Purbaya Completed His Duties Well Over the Past Year

Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara pledged to continue the legacy of his predecessor, Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa, particularly the spirit of 'One Finance Ministry' and cross-unit collaboration within the ministry. Speaking at a handover ceremony at the Finance Ministry offices, Suahasil praised Purbaya's leadership over the past year and thanked his family for their dedication to the Republic of Indonesia.

Antam Invites Women to Champion Marine Conservation

State mining company PT Antam has partnered with participants of Women On The Move 2026 to release 50 baby sea turtles and restore 55 coral reefs at Medana Bay, Lombok. Finance and Risk Management Director Arini Kasmira said sustainability is inseparable from the company's culture, with safety always prioritised. The initiative forms part of the programme's theme, 'Leading Beyond Limits, Creating Lasting Impact', combining leadership development with environmental action.

Food Poisoning Among Pupils at Four Primary Schools in Jetis, Bantul Caused by Bacteria-Contaminated Galantin

Laboratory tests have confirmed the presence of Bacillus sp bacteria in the galantin dish served under the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme, which poisoned pupils at four primary schools in Jetis, Bantul. The Bantul Health Office has recommended the MBG kitchen minimise cross-contamination by separating raw and cooked food pathways. Around 50 pupils and a teacher at SDN 1 Sumberagung were affected, with most recovering at home and only a handful requiring hospital treatment.

Harry and Meghan Suddenly Move Their Children's School — Why?

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have moved their children to a different school in Britain on security grounds, just days after the new school year began. The decision follows years of legal efforts by Harry to restore taxpayer-funded police protection, and comes as the Royal and VIP Executive Committee (Ravec) reviews the threats facing the couple.

Ministry of Religious Affairs Prepares for a Decade of Santri Day Commemorations

The Ministry of Religious Affairs will launch the logo, theme and programme of activities for Santri Day 2026 on 22 September, one month before the commemoration's climax on 22 October. The 2026 edition marks ten years since Santri Day was established in 2016, and will feature events showcasing pesantren education, economic self-reliance and digital innovation. The announcement follows the appointment of Basnang Said as the first Director-General of Pesantren, a new echelon-I unit within the ministry.

On the Third Day, Search for Virgo Transport 8 Victims Expanded Underwater

Search and rescue operations for the KM Virgo Transport 8 sinking in the Java Sea entered their third day, with the KRI Canopus deployed to sweep sector five using underwater drones and an ROV. As of Tuesday morning, 114 victims had been found — 108 survivors and six dead — leaving 129 people still missing out of 243 aboard.

No Mining Degree, No Oil Business: Bahlil Reveals How He Steers the Energy Ministry

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia admits he has neither a mining education nor any prior oil business experience, yet insists this drives innovation in policymaking. He outlined Indonesia's dependence on roughly 1 million barrels per day of imported oil and the challenges posed by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Bahlil said Indonesia has diversified crude supplies, including from Russia, and pledged subsidised fuel prices will not rise before 31 December.

KPAI Calls for Passenger Manifest of the Virgo Ship to Be Opened Regarding Children's Data

The Indonesian Child Protection Commission (KPAI) has urged the government to release an accurate passenger manifest for the Virgo Transport 8, which sank in the Java Sea, particularly regarding children and vulnerable groups on board. KPAI also demanded a thorough investigation into the vessel's safety standards, including life jackets, evacuation procedures and pre-departure inspections. Reports indicate six deaths, 129 missing persons and 98 survivors so far.

Game Microtransaction Trend: Digital Payment Convenience and the Risk of Impulsive Spending

Digital payment integration has made in-game microtransactions effortless, allowing gamers to purchase skins, characters and virtual currency with a few taps. While this model has become a major revenue source for developers, research links it to Internet Gaming Disorder and Gambling Disorder, particularly through loot box mechanics. Players are urged to set spending limits to protect their financial stability.

Ara: Tackling Slum Areas Requires More Than Just House Repairs

Housing Minister Maruarar Sirait has stressed that slum rehabilitation must be integrated, combining physical renovation with environmental improvements and community economic empowerment. The Menteng Tenggulun scheme in Central Jakarta, covering 152 houses with support from Astra and other private firms, serves as a pilot 'Kampung Gotong Royong' combining healthy housing, ordered surroundings and MSME development.

Abandoned Motorcycle Found in Bogor Turns Out to Be Stolen

Police on patrol in Cibinong, Bogor Regency, discovered an unattended motorcycle by the roadside and took it to the station after no residents could identify its owner. A man named Tatang who came to file a theft report turned out to be the motorcycle's owner, and the vehicle was returned to him. According to the Cibinong Police Chief, the thief had fled on the bike but abandoned it when the engine suddenly cut out.

Eighth day of search for missing journalists, joint SAR team deploys 20 vessels

A joint search and rescue team has deployed 20 vessels across five operational sectors covering 3,962 square nautical miles in the Sunda Strait, Banten, as the hunt for five journalists and three crew members entered its eighth day. The group lost contact whilst at sea, prompting a large-scale multi-agency operation led by Basarnas.

Seeking Work, a Family of Four from Kediri Among Victims of the KM Virgo Incident

A family of four from Kediri, East Java, was on the passenger manifest of KMP Virgo Transport 8, which sank in the Java Sea. Winarsih (48), her husband Ermanto (41) and their two daughters had travelled to Banjarmasin in search of work, according to relatives. The family only learnt of the disaster after news emerged of the incident in the Masalembo waters, prompting relatives to head to Tanjung Perak Port in Surabaya.

RMAB, MNCN and STA Sign Partnership to Build Integrated Media Ecosystem

PT Republik Media Anak Bangsa (RMAB), PT Media Nusantara Citra Tbk (MNCN) and PT Sinergi Terang Abadi (STA) have signed a strategic agreement to build an integrated news and sports media ecosystem across conventional and digital platforms. The partnership combines national television networks, radio, digital news portals and streaming services, reaching around 72 million social media followers and generating some 1.8 billion monthly views.

KPK Says Summarecon President Director Adrianto Pitojo Adhi Caught in ATR/BPN Ministry Sting Operation

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has confirmed that Adrianto Pitojo Adhi, President Director of PT Summarecon Agung Tbk, was among 17 people arrested in a sting operation at the Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency (ATR/BPN). The operation relates to alleged corruption in the processing of building use rights (HGB) for Summarecon in Bogor Regency, West Java, with cash evidence estimated at hundreds of billions of rupiah seized.

Prabowo Orders Protection of IKN as Forestry Minister and OIKN Chief Hold Urgent Meeting

President Prabowo Subianto has ordered intensified forest and land fire control in East Kalimantan to prevent blazes from reaching the core zone of the Nusantara Capital (IKN). A coordination meeting attended by Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni, BNPB head Suharyanto and OIKN chief Basuki Hadimuljono was convened as high-confidence hotspots nationwide surged to 1,437, with Central Kalimantan recording the largest concentration at 689 points.

IKN Chief, Forestry Minister and Officials Gather to Discuss Prabowo's Order to Protect IKN

President Prabowo Subianto has ordered enhanced forest and land fire control in East Kalimantan to prevent blazes from reaching the core zone of the Nusantara capital (IKN). Officials including Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni, BNPB head Suharyanto and OIKN chief Basuki Hadimuljono met to coordinate prevention and response efforts. Nationally, high-confidence hotspots surged from 592 to 1,437 in a single day, with the largest concentrations in Central Kalimantan.

Communities play a role in countering the harmful effects of social media algorithmic echo chambers

Deputy Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs Nezar Patria has stressed the role of communities, including indigenous peoples, in countering disinformation amplified by social media algorithms and filter bubbles. Speaking at the Rural ICT Camp 2026 discussion, he urged local strategies and digital literacy so that expanded connectivity becomes meaningful and beneficial rather than misleading.

Golkar Awaits Legal Process for Fahd Arafiq at the KPK

Golkar Secretary-General M Sarmuji says the party will let the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) handle the legal process against party official Fahd Arafiq, who was detained in a sting operation at the Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning. The party will decide on disciplinary action once the legal situation becomes clear. The KPK stated Fahd's testimony is needed to help establish the chronology of the alleged corruption under investigation.

Breaking! BI Records Indonesia's External Debt Reaching US$454.8 Billion in July

Indonesia's external debt stood at US$454.8 billion in July 2026, relatively stable month-on-month but growing 4.9% annually, driven mainly by an increase in public sector debt. Bank Indonesia said the rise reflects sustained investor confidence in government securities, whilst private external debt contracted 1.2% year-on-year. The debt-to-GDP ratio of 30.7% and a predominantly long-term maturity structure keep the position healthy.

US focuses on expanding commercial diplomacy and energy resilience in the Pacific

The United States is deepening ties with Pacific Island nations through commercial diplomacy, energy security, and maritime law enforcement cooperation, according to Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Matt Murray. Washington plans to redirect foreign aid towards private-sector-led growth and is working with Congress to provide US$60 million to help Pacific states cope with the global energy crisis.

Government Urged to Be Careful Over Proposal to Redefine Native Papuans

Civil society groups in Papua have warned the Ministry of Home Affairs against rushing a proposed redefinition of Orang Asli Papua (OAP), fearing it could spark new identity conflicts and deepen divisions. The Papua Justice and Human Dignity Foundation (YKKMP) issued eight recommendations to Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian, urging an inclusive, participatory process grounded in Papua's social realities. The redefinition forms part of the planned revision of the Papua Special Autonomy Law, which would raise the special allocation fund from 2 to 2.5 per cent for OAP development.

Maudy Ayunda Apologises After Mindfulness Content Deemed 'Tone Deaf'

Actress and singer Maudy Ayunda has issued an apology after her video 'Mindfulness Amid Bad News' drew criticism for being insensitive to Indonesians affected by ongoing crises. She acknowledged that being able to step away from negative news is a privilege not everyone shares, amid public frustration over forest fires, earthquakes and government policies.

Horror Stabbing Outside Restaurant in China Leaves Several Injured

Police in Guangzhou have arrested a 35-year-old man, identified as Li, following a stabbing attack outside a hot pot restaurant in the Panyu district shopping area. Several victims sustained non-life-threatening injuries, though authorities have not disclosed the number of casualties or a suspected motive. The incident adds to a series of high-profile knife attacks in China in recent years.

5 Unique iPhone Duo Features That Set It Apart from Other Foldable Smartphones

Apple has entered the foldable smartphone market with the iPhone Duo, bringing features that distinguish it from established competitors. Its highlights include seamless screen transitions, a hidden under-display camera, an anti-glare matte display, a titanium hinge and Apple Pencil support.

Roy Suryo Files Fifth Pre-Trial Motion, Now Demands Rp206 Million in Damages

Former Youth and Sports Minister Roy Suryo has filed his fifth pre-trial motion at the South Jakarta District Court over the alleged fake diploma case of seventh President Joko Widodo. In his latest suit, he demands Rp206 million in damages for coercive actions he claims were unlawful. The case stems from his arrest on 19 July 2026 for the transfer of suspect and case files.

Indonesian National Enslaved in Australia, Perpetrator a Malaysian Citizen

A Malaysian man, Chee Kit Chong, has been sentenced to six years in prison by an Australian court for keeping an Indonesian woman in slavery and assaulting her at his home in Point Cook, Melbourne. The victim, who had treated Chong like a son, was forced into domestic servitude, denied food and medical care, and suffered malnutrition by the time police found her after she fled in October 2022.

Purbaya Officially Leaves Finance Minister Post, Suahasil Nazara Takes Over

Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has officially stepped down as Finance Minister after a year in charge, with Suahasil Nazara taking over the post. The handover ceremony took place at the Finance Ministry's Djuanda 1 building in Jakarta, a day after Suahasil was sworn in by President Prabowo Subianto.

Is Indonesia's Ambition for 100 GW of Solar Power and a Coal Exit Realistic?

Program and Policy Manager at Cerah, Wicaksono Gitawan, considers Indonesia's 100 GW solar power target realistic given the country's 3,300 GW renewable energy potential, provided it is paired with a coal phase-out and formalised in energy policy documents. The chair of the Indonesian Solar Energy Association (AESI), Mada Ayu Habsari, welcomed the vision but stressed that a clear roadmap and stakeholder cooperation are essential for implementation.

Jasa Raharja Pays Compensation to KM Virgo Victims in Under 24 Hours

State insurer PT Jasa Raharja (Persero) has disbursed compensation to the widow of a passenger who died when KM Virgo Transport 8 sank en route from Surabaya to Banjarmasin. The payment of Rp 50 million, plus an additional Rp 20 million from subsidiary Jasaraharja Putera, was made less than 24 hours after the victim's identity was verified.

Medium Rice Passed Off as Fake Fortified Product, Yielding Massive Profits

Agriculture Minister and National Food Agency head Amran Sulaiman revealed that rice marketed as fortified has failed government laboratory checks, with some medium-grade rice sold at Rp57,600 per kg despite a fair price of Rp13,500. Of 27 brands tested, 25 did not meet standards, with estimated consumer losses of Rp89 trillion. The government has ordered the products withdrawn, licences revoked and legal proceedings initiated.

2026 National MTQ Could Generate Up to Rp1.2 Trillion in Economic Activity

The Ministry of Religious Affairs projects that the 31st National Quran Recitation Competition (MTQ) in Semarang, Central Java, could generate economic turnover of up to Rp1.2 trillion. The event, scheduled for 11–20 September 2026, will bring together 2,242 participants from 37 provinces, boosting accommodation, transport, consumption and MSME sectors.

Full List of 18 National Holidays and 8 Collective Leave Days for 2027

The Indonesian government has designated 18 national holidays and eight collective leave days for 2027, the majority of which are religious observances. Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture Pratikno said the decision considered weekends, Eid homecoming travel and religious traditions. Collective leave applies mandatorily to civil servants, whilst private companies may choose whether to observe it.

Purbaya Posts on TikTok First Thing in the Morning: Are You Ready?

Former Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa posted a cryptic "Are you ready?" message on TikTok hours after being dismissed by President Prabowo Subianto, drawing over four million views. He was replaced by Deputy Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara under Presidential Decree No. 97/P of 2026. Neither Purbaya nor the State Palace has explained the meaning behind the post.

Governor Mirza Pushes for Lampung to Become National Bioethanol Development Hub

Lampung Governor Rahmat Mirzani Djausal has expressed optimism that the province can become the centre of a national bioethanol ecosystem, following the launch of the Lampung Bioethanol Development Center in Pesawaran Regency. The project, a collaboration between the Ministry of Investment and Downstreaming/BKPM, Pertamina NRE, Toyota Group and the University of Lampung, aims to link the province's agricultural strength with biomass-based renewable energy and support Indonesia's drive towards energy self-sufficiency. Deputy Minister Todotua Pasaribu said the pilot facility is targeted to begin production in December 2026, with a commercial scale of 60,000 kilolitres targeted the following year.

Deputy Environment Minister: Waste Management at Pasar Pagi Samarinda SPPG Complies with Regulations

Deputy Minister of Environment Diaz Hendropriyono has assessed the wastewater management at the Pasar Pagi SPPG kitchen in Samarinda, East Kalimantan, as compliant with Ministerial Decree No. 2760 of 2025. He said the facility, which serves the Nutritious Meal Programme, could serve as a model for other SPPGs, citing its wastewater treatment plant, grease trap, and sorted organic waste reused as animal feed.

Purbaya Hands Over Finance Minister Post to Suahasil, Delivers Brief Statement

Former Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa formally handed over the portfolio to Suahasil Nazara at the Finance Ministry office in Jakarta, keeping his remarks brief and passing the task of sustaining optimism over economic policy to his successor. Purbaya had continued working until an hour before the inauguration, leading a joint meeting with the DPD on the state budget and regional transfer funds. President Prabowo Subianto inaugurated Suahasil at the State Palace on Monday evening.

Government Officially Sets 18 National Holidays and 8 Collective Leave Days for 2027

The Indonesian government has officially designated 18 national holidays and eight collective leave days for 2027 through a joint ministerial decree signed at the Coordinating Ministry for Human Development and Culture. Coordinating Minister Pratikno said the decision was agreed at a ministerial-level meeting and took into account the smooth running of public activities. Most of the holidays are religious observances.

Knock! 3 Countries Officially Declare Desire for Independence from England, the UK Could Dissolve

The leaders of Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland's main pro-independence parties have signed a joint declaration asserting their nations' right to self-determination, threatening the very existence of the United Kingdom. The pact, signed in Cardiff by John Swinney, Rhun ap Iorwerth, and Michelle O'Neill, claims momentum is on the side of constitutional change and points towards a future in the European Union. British Prime Minister Andy Burnham has dismissed the prospect of referendums, stating they are not on the agenda.

KRI Canopus sweeps sector five in underwater search for Virgo ship victims

Indonesia's search and rescue operation for the capsized KM Virgo Transport 8 in the Java Sea entered its third day, with the navy vessel KRI Canopus deployed to sweep sector five of six designated search zones, extending the hunt underwater. As of Tuesday morning, 114 victims had been found — 108 survivors and six dead — leaving 129 of the 243 people on board still missing.

Türkiye to Submit Mecca Defence Pact to Parliament in October 2026

Türkiye is expected to submit the Joint Defence Pact of Mecca to parliament for approval in October, after which it will be ratified by the president, according to a Turkish official cited by Middle East Eye. The pact, signed by Türkiye, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan on 7 August, treats an armed attack on any one of the three nations as an attack on all, but will only take effect once each country completes its internal approval procedures.

Jakarta DPRD calls on Provincial Government to focus on flooding, waste and burial grounds

Yuke Yurike, Chair of Commission D of the Jakarta DPRD, has urged the Provincial Government to prioritise the 2026 regional budget for flood mitigation, waste management and cemetery services. She warned that flood preparedness must be addressed before the rainy season arrives, and called for emergency solutions to uncollected waste caused by disposal restrictions at the Bantargebang integrated facility.

Cruel! Long-Tailed Baby Monkey Found in Suitcase at Juanda Airport

Quarantine officers at Juanda International Airport foiled an attempt to smuggle a long-tailed macaque (Macaca fascicularis) hidden in a food carton inside a passenger's suitcase. The owner failed to come forward, and the animal, along with several other creatures seized in a separate case, will be handed over to East Java's natural resources conservation agency.

BMKG Weather Forecast: Rain in Some Parts of Indonesia Today

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) forecasts rain of varying intensity across several regions, including moderate rain in Tanjung Selor, North Kalimantan, and light rain in Banda Aceh, Medan, Bandar Lampung, and Pontianak. Jakarta will remain cloudy through the afternoon with temperatures of 26–35°C, while haze is expected in areas such as Padang, Palembang, and Palangkaraya, where smoke is possible. BMKG encourages the public to monitor updates via its official website and social media.

Don't Miss It! Today Is the Cum Date for BMRI's Dividend

Bank Mandiri (BMRI) enters its cum date for the regular and negotiation markets on 15 September 2026, with the cash market cum date on 17 September. The interim dividend totals around Rp6.16 trillion, or Rp66 per share, to be paid on 2 October 2026.

Campus Damaged by Earthquake, Unika Ruteng Students Move to Online Classes

Thousands of students at Unika Santu Paulus Ruteng in Manggarai, East Nusa Tenggara, have been forced to begin the new academic year online after the 7.7-magnitude earthquake on 15 August severely damaged campus buildings. An assessment has identified 60 points of damage, 30 of them classified as severe, and repairs have yet to begin.

Understanding the Trader Profession Mentioned by Yudo Sadewa: Can It Really Earn Billions of Rupiah a Month?

The trading profession came under the spotlight after Yudo Achilles Sadewa, son of former Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa, suggested his father take up trading, claiming traders can earn billions of rupiah a month. The article explains what traders do and where their income comes from. It notes the profession carries significant financial risk and does not guarantee profits.

Complete List of National Holidays and Collective Leave Days for 2027: 18 Red Dates Announced

The Indonesian government has set the 2027 calendar with 18 national holidays and eight collective leave days, coordinated by the Coordinating Ministry for Human Development and Culture. The decision, formalised in a joint ministerial decree, considered religious observances, proximity to weekends, and the public's homecoming traditions. Collective leave is mandatory for civil servants but optional for private-sector workers.

Search operation for missing journalists extended to Bengkulu coast and Enggano Island

Basarnas has expanded the search and rescue operation for a group of journalists and speedboat crew who went missing while covering volcanic activity at Mount Anak Krakatau. The search now covers the Bengkulu coastline and Enggano Island, with a joint SAR team deploying numerous naval and rescue vessels across four sectors. Eight people are missing, including five journalists, after losing contact on 7 August near the Sunda Strait.

Banten Residents Offer Buffalo to the Sea, Praying for Five Journalists and Three Boat Crew to Be Found Safe

Residents of Carita Beach in Pandeglang Regency, Banten, carried out the traditional offering of a buffalo into the sea as part of prayers for five journalists and three boat crew members who went missing near Mount Anak Krakatau. The ritual, led by Abah Sihin, is an annual tradition tied to the Muharram sea purification ceremony known as ruwatan laut.

Ombudsman urges Immigration and Corrections Ministry to evaluate prison governance

The Ombudsman of the Republic of Indonesia has called on the Ministry of Immigration and Corrections (Imipas) to carry out a comprehensive evaluation of prison governance, focusing on mobile phone control, extortion prevention, and drug trafficking in prisons and detention houses. Ombudsman member Syafrida Rasahan said these three areas are recurrent entry points for maladministration, following public complaints of illicit payments and room rentals in correctional facilities. The Ombudsman welcomed ongoing inspections by the Directorate General of Corrections but stressed that systemic reform, not merely punishing individuals, is needed.

Moment of Handover: Purbaya Passes the Baton to Suahasil as Finance Minister

Former Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa formally handed over his duties to Suahasil Nazara during a ceremony at the Juanda II building at the Finance Ministry in Jakarta. Suahasil was sworn in by President Prabowo Subianto the previous day in a cabinet reshuffle. Purbaya expressed his gratitude to all Finance Ministry staff for their cooperation during his one year in office.

South Jakarta District Court holds fifth pre-trial hearing for Roy Suryo

The South Jakarta District Court has convened the fifth pre-trial hearing on Roy Suryo's claim for Rp206 million in damages linked to the alleged fake diploma defamation case involving former President Joko Widodo. Roy is suing Polda Metro Jaya, the DKI Jakarta High Prosecutor's Office and the Ministry of Finance over what he considers unlawful coercive measures. Four previous claims have already been rejected by the court.

ADPLK and DPLK Syariah Muamalat hold pension fund literacy drive for the informal sector

The Association of Financial Institution Pension Funds (ADPLK), together with DPLK Syariah Muamalat, DPLK BNI and DPLK Pertalife Insurance, has launched a sharia pension fund literacy and inclusion programme targeting the informal sector, including mosque administrators across Greater Jakarta. The initiative forms part of the 2026 National Sharia Pension Fund Seminar and follows a memorandum of understanding with the Indonesian Mosque Council. DPLK Syariah Muamalat, Indonesia's first sharia DPLK at 29 years old, says the programme aims to help Indonesians prepare for a secure retirement.

PGN targets 59,990 new gas network connections in Surabaya and Gresik

PT Perusahaan Gas Negara (PGN) plans to build new city gas networks serving around 59,990 household connections across Surabaya and Gresik between 2025 and 2026. Public enthusiasm is high, with some 36,000 subscription interest forms received up to August 2026, adding to roughly 61,000 existing customers in the two areas.

To Meet National Bioethanol Production Needs, Government Inaugurates Bioethanol Development Center

The Ministry of Investment and Downstream Industry/BKPM has inaugurated a Bioethanol Development Center in Pesawaran, Lampung, a research facility built through a partnership between Pertamina New & Renewable Energy and Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indonesia. The centre will test multi-feedstock bioethanol production, starting with a 60-kilolitre trial capacity, ahead of plans to scale up to 60,000 kilolitres in 2027 as Indonesia targets higher ethanol fuel blends.

Govt deploys equipment to support Kalimantan's firefighting efforts

The Public Works Ministry has readied 13 additional units of firefighting equipment, including mobile pumps and water tank trucks, to support forest and land fire suppression across all five Kalimantan provinces. Supplies were shipped by sea from Tanjung Priok Port and distributed through River Basin Organizations, while local units will procure further items as needed. Public Works Minister Dody Hanggodo instructed all teams to remain alert and maintain basic public services during the emergency response.

Brief Handover Speech as Finance Minister, Purbaya: Thank You All

Outgoing Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa delivered a deliberately short speech as he handed over the ministry to Suahasil Nazara after roughly a year in the post. Suahasil praised Purbaya for strengthening cross-unit collaboration and raising public awareness of the ministry's work, and pledged to continue it for the remainder of the Red-and-White Cabinet's 2024–2029 term.

Religious Affairs Minister Inaugurates Basnang Said as Director-General of Pesantren

Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar has inaugurated Basnang Said as the first Director-General of Pesantren, following the establishment of the new Directorate-General as a first-echelon unit within the Ministry of Religious Affairs. The minister also installed four leaders of state religious higher education institutions (PTKN) and called for tangible progress within the new unit's first 100 days.

25 Young Offenders at LPKA Karangasem Trained in First Aid

The Indonesian Red Cross (PMI) in Karangasem Regency delivered first aid education to 25 children at the Special Child Development Institution (LPKA) Class II Karangasem as part of its 81st anniversary celebrations. The training aims to equip the young inmates with basic first aid skills useful both during their detention and after their release.

Trump's Ireland Remark Draws Flak as UK Unity under Threat

The nationalist leaders of Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland met in Cardiff to declare their right to self-determination and urge the British government to prepare for constitutional change. The declaration came days after US President Donald Trump said a unified Ireland would be 'fantastic' during a visit to Dublin, drawing criticism from British politicians. Any secession would ultimately require Westminster's approval, as devolution leaves key powers and referendum mechanisms in the UK government's hands.

JKN membership reaches 284 million, BPJS pushes for quality improvement

Indonesia's national health insurance scheme (JKN) has reached 284.3 million members, covering 98.61 per cent of the population as of July 2026, according to BPJS Kesehatan. The agency is expanding its network of health facilities, signing agreements with supplementary health insurers, and boosting frontline staff to improve service quality. It also aims to shift the programme towards value-based care focused on health outcomes rather than the volume of procedures.

Purbaya hands over Finance Minister post to Suahasil

Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has formally handed over the position of Finance Minister to Suahasil Nazara at the Finance Ministry in Jakarta, following his appointment by President Prabowo Subianto. Suahasil, formerly Deputy Finance Minister, becomes the third finance minister of the Prabowo administration and will serve out the remainder of the Red-and-White Cabinet's 2024–2029 term.

Accompanying Prabowo to Russia, Bahlil: We Are Fighting for Oil and Fuel

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia revealed that Indonesia is pursuing crude oil and fuel supplies from Russia following bilateral talks between President Prabowo Subianto and President Vladimir Putin. Indonesia imports roughly one million barrels per day to cover a domestic supply gap, and the government has pledged not to raise subsidised fuel prices until at least the end of 2026.

The Track Record of Fahd A Rafiq, the Golkar Politician Caught in a KPK Sting Operation

Golkar politician Fahd El Fouz, alias Fahd A Rafiq, has been detained in a Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) sting operation linked to the processing of a building use licence (HGB) for PT Summarecon Agung in Bogor Regency. Seventeen people were arrested, with cash estimated at hundreds of billions of rupiah secured. This is the third corruption case to ensnare Fahd, who previously served two prison sentences for bribery involving regional infrastructure funds and Qur'an and computer procurement projects.

BPIP Expert Council: President revives the Bandung Spirit at the BRICS Summit

BPIP Expert Council member Darmansjah Djumala has hailed President Prabowo Subianto's remarks at the BRICS Summit in New Delhi as a revival of the Bandung Spirit born from the 1955 Asian-African Conference. He argued that the spirit of equality, solidarity and sovereignty remains relevant amid a divided world and suggested Indonesia propose a second Asian-African Conference.

Search Area for Virgo Transport 8 Victims Doubled

Basarnas has nearly doubled the search area for the 129 missing victims of KM Virgo Transport 8 to 4,600 nautical miles in the Masalembo waters of the Java Sea on the third day of SAR operations. As of Tuesday, 114 of the 243 people on board had been found, comprising 108 survivors and six dead, with 110 victims already arrived in Banjarmasin.

SMPN 16 Medan Rises Again After Floods, Teachers and Pupils Learn Without Worry

SMP Negeri 16 Medan has fully resumed classroom learning after a government-funded revitalisation completed in August 2026, following floods that submerged the school to over a metre in September 2025. Minister of Primary and Secondary Education Abdul Mu'ti inspected the school, noting that learning activities have returned to 100 percent capacity without needing online classes. The Medan city government pledged continued support, including replacing damaged furniture.

Brilliant! UMY Students Turn Golden Apple Snail Pest into Fertiliser

Students at Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta have developed Agriverse, a liquid organic biofertiliser made from golden apple snails, a notorious rice pest. Backed by UMY's Vessel SEBI programme, the team has empowered more than 200 farmers across Sleman and Magelang and won the International Lean Canvas Competition ISCOMBUS.

Meet Suahasil Nazara, Prabowo's Third Finance Minister in Less than Two Years

Deputy Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara was unexpectedly promoted to finance minister, becoming President Prabowo Subianto's third holder of the post in under two years after Sri Mulyani Indrawati and Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa. The University of Illinois-trained economist has spent much of his career at the Finance Ministry, including as head of the Fiscal Policy Agency, and declared net wealth of Rp 138.17 billion.

Can Land Routes Offset the Impact of the Sea Blockade on Iran?

A US-led maritime blockade targeting Iranian ports has severely disrupted southern trade, prompting Tehran to accelerate long-standing plans to shift commerce towards northern ports, railways and land corridors. However, analysts say land routes lack the capacity to replace seaborne volumes, with costs up to four times higher and energy exports particularly difficult to reroute. Land corridors may strengthen resilience but cannot substitute for maritime trade.

Contents and Download Link for the 2027 National Holiday and Collective Leave Joint Decree

The government has officially set the 2027 calendar of national holidays and collective leave through a Three-Minister Joint Decree (SKB), signed at the Coordinating Ministry for Human Development and Culture in Jakarta. The decree establishes 18 national holidays and 8 days of collective leave, with collective leave mandatory for civil servants but optional for private-sector workers.

Wang Yi warns Paris against sending wrong signals to Taiwan

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has called on France to strictly observe the 'One China' principle and refrain from any official contact with Taiwan. Speaking through China Central Television, he urged Paris to avoid sending erroneous signals to groups supporting Taiwanese independence.

Haze worsens across Malaysia, with 38 areas recording unhealthy air quality

Haze worsens across Malaysia, with 38 areas recording unhealthy air quality Serian in Sarawak recorded Malaysia’s highest Air Pollutant Index reading on Tuesday (Sep 15) morning, while Johor had the most areas with unhealthy air quality, according to data from the Malaysia’s Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability.

Pokemon Company Eyes Growing Fan Base in Indonesia with New Initiatives

The Pokemon Company is expanding its engagement with Indonesia, launching initiatives such as 'Poké Wayang', a wayang-inspired cultural collaboration featuring gamelan-arranged Pokémon music, alongside Indonesian language support for Pokémon TCG Pocket and the 'Pikachu's Indonesia Journey' event. COO Takato Utsunomiya noted that Indonesia ranks first globally for viewership of the Pokémon Kids TV YouTube channel and that Indonesian staff are involved in game development at the company.

Being Patient in the Face of Calamity Does Not Mean Surrendering

KH Ahmad Muhamad Mustain Nasoha (Gus Mustain), chairman of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) Fatwa Commission for Surakarta, has reminded Muslims that patience in the face of calamity must not be misunderstood as passive resignation. Citing Imam al-Ghazali and Imam Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyyah, he explained that faith moves between patience and gratitude, and that one should continue striving to overcome the impact of misfortune while remaining spiritually steadfast.

Pertamina Apologises Over Fuel Station Queues in Makassar as Supply Is Increased

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga has apologised for service disruptions at fuel stations in Makassar, South Sulawesi, which caused long vehicle queues in recent days. The company has extended operating hours, boosted fuel supply, and added nozzles, operators and task force personnel, reporting that conditions are gradually improving.

Career Journey of Former DIY Police Chief Inspector General Haka Astana, Who Died Today

Inspector General (retired) RM Haka Astana Mantika Widya, former Chief of Police for the Special Region of Yogyakarta (DIY), passed away at 05.10 WIB this morning at Jogja International Hospital. He served as DIY Police Chief from 2013 to 2014, capping a police career spanning more than three decades that began at the Police Academy in 1982.

Total Holiday During Nyepi and Eid 2027 Could Reach 10 Days

The government has announced national holidays and collective leave days for 2027 through a joint ministerial decree. Combined, the Nyepi and Idul Fitri period could span up to ten days off. The exact date of Eid will be confirmed by the Ministry of Religious Affairs through the isbat session.

Gorontalo's karawo ikat: Preserving cultural identity, driving the economy

Karawo ikat, a hand-embroidered textile from Gorontalo recognised as an Indonesian Intangible Cultural Heritage, is being kept alive by artisans such as Erawati Bouta, who turned the craft into a business in 2023. A single cloth can take one to three months to complete, and low pay of around Rp400,000–450,000 per piece means few people are drawn to the trade.

18 national holidays and 8 collective leave days set for 2027, see the dates!

The Indonesian government, coordinated by the Coordinating Ministry for Human Development and Culture, has set 18 national holidays and eight collective leave days for 2027, the majority of which are religious observances. State civil servants are bound by the collective leave arrangements, whilst for private-sector employees these remain optional.

57 Mustahik Micro-Enterprises in South Tangerang Pushed to Go Digital Through BIMA Grant Programme

Fifty-seven micro-entrepreneurs from among mustahik (zakat recipients) in South Tangerang are receiving business management and digital technology mentoring under the 2026 BIMA Community Service Grant Programme. The initiative is a collaboration between the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology, Universitas Bhakti Asih Tangerang, and LAZ Al-Aqsha Delatinos, focusing on financial literacy, legal literacy, business governance and the SIM-UMi micro-enterprise management information system. Participants also received Android-based cashier applications and Bluetooth thermal printers to digitise transactions and cash-flow management.

Reading the Reasons Behind Purbaya's Dismissal and the Direction of Fiscal Policy Under Suahasil's Leadership

President Prabowo Subianto abruptly dismissed Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa and installed Suahasil Nazara on the same day, raising questions about the future direction of fiscal policy. Economist Josua Pardede reads the change as a recalibration of fiscal management rather than a total shift in economic direction, pointing to accumulated problems over policy consistency, communication and perceptions of fiscal discipline. Markets largely view Suahasil's appointment as an effort to deliver more stable and predictable management after concerns over widening deficits, rupiah weakness and ratings downgrades.

Continuing Its Rally: A Look at SEMA's Share Profile, Business Lines and Latest Performance

Shares in PT Semacom Integrated Tbk (SEMA) surged by roughly 28% to touch the upper auto-rejection level on the Indonesia Stock Exchange. The company, which listed in 2022, has expanded from electrical panel manufacturing into renewable energy and is increasingly focused on data centre projects requiring substantial power infrastructure. Revenue grew quarter-on-quarter in Q2 2026, but rising costs squeezed net profit margins.

South Tangerang Police Offer Support to Family of Journalist Missing in the Sunda Strait

Police continue the search for five journalists and three boat crew who lost contact in the Sunda Strait after covering Mount Anak Krakatau. The South Tangerang Police Chief visited the family of missing freelance journalist Donal Husni to offer support as the operation entered its seventh day.

UKI launches EMAS vision to strengthen impact on society

The Indonesian Christian University (UKI) has launched its UKI EMAS operational vision, built on four pillars: human resource empowerment, economic and social meaningfulness, agility, and sustainability. Rector Angel Damayanti said the university aims to ensure teaching, research and community service respond directly to societal needs, amid global challenges such as poverty, unemployment and environmental crisis. The launch formed part of UKI's 2026 orientation programme for new students.

iOS 27 Officially Available in Indonesia, Check the List of Eligible iPhones

Apple has released iOS 27 in Indonesia alongside its new iPhone lineup, bringing upgrades to child safety, design, search and overall performance. The update introduces major changes to Siri AI and Apple Intelligence, though these features are limited to iPhone 15 Pro and newer models.

Indonesia Eyes Guyana-Suriname Oil, Pertamina Explores Upstream Investment

Indonesia, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has revealed that PT Pertamina is exploring exploration cooperation and upstream oil and gas investment opportunities in Guyana and Suriname. The move forms part of a strategy to diversify energy sources and strengthen national energy resilience amid geopolitical uncertainty. Indonesia's trade with Latin America and the Caribbean reached substantial sums in 2025, but remains only around 3 per cent of its global trade, signalling significant room for expansion.

Palestine warns of Israeli attempts to impose a new religious order

The Jerusalem Governorate has warned that Israel is imposing a 'new Jewish religious reality' around the Al-Aqsa Mosque, including repeated rituals at the Bab al-Rahma cemetery. It accused Temple Mount groups of turning the site into a Jewish place of worship and insisted Israel holds no sovereignty over occupied Jerusalem or its holy sites.

Day eight: search operation for missing journalists in Sunda Strait remains optimal

Basarnas has confirmed that the eighth day of the search and rescue operation for eight missing people, including five journalists covering volcanic activity at Mount Anak Krakatau in the Sunda Strait, is proceeding at full capacity. The party lost contact on 7 September while travelling on the speedboat Arupadhatu 1. The operation involves 20 vessels and a helicopter, covering a total search area of roughly 6,649 square nautical miles.

No Longer Finance Minister, Purbaya: I Want to Go Fishing

Outgoing Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has officially handed over the post to Suahasil Nazara, who was inaugurated by President Prabowo Subianto at the State Palace. Purbaya said he intends to spend his time fishing at his own pond. Suahasil paid tribute to Purbaya's year of service, crediting him with introducing new working methods at the Finance Ministry that were well understood by the public.

The Full List of Indonesian Finance Ministers: Who Served Longest and Shortest?

President Prabowo Subianto has sworn in Suahasil Nazara as Indonesia's new Finance Minister, replacing Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa after just 371 days in office, making him the third finance chief of the Prabowo administration. The article traces the history of Indonesia's finance ministers since independence, from Ali Wardhana's record tenure of nearly 15 years to Samsi Sastrawidagda's 14 days in 1945. It highlights the legacies of figures such as Sri Mulyani Indrawati, Mar'ie Muhammad and JB Sumarlin.

Purbaya Replaced, Klungkung Calls for Transfer-to-Regions Formula to Favour Island Areas

The Klungkung regency government has urged the central government to revise the Transfer to Regions (TKD) formula so it better reflects geographic conditions, particularly for island territories such as Nusa Penida. Deputy Regent Tjokorda Gde Surya Putra expressed hope that the appointment of Suahasil Nazara as Finance Minister would strengthen fiscal synergy between central and regional governments, noting Klungkung's low locally generated revenue.

Government Officially Sets 2027 National Holiday and Collective Leave List

The Indonesian government, through a joint ministerial decree signed by three ministers, has set 18 national holidays and 8 collective leave days for 2027. Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture Pratikno said the decision took religious observances, weekends and Eid homecoming travel into account, noting that collective leave is mandatory for civil servants but optional for the private sector.

Lampung Bioethanol Development Centre Links Agricultural Potential with Renewable Energy

The Indonesian government, through the Ministry of Investment and Downstream Industry/BKPM, has launched the Bioethanol Development Centre in Pesawaran Regency, Lampung, bringing together Pertamina NRE, the Toyota Group and the University of Lampung. Governor Rahmat Mirzani Djausal said the centre will connect Lampung's agricultural strengths with biomass-based renewable energy, whilst Deputy Minister Todotua Pasaribu outlined four pillars including energy security and downstream processing, noting national petrol consumption of about 36 million kilolitres per year.

22 Survivors of KM Virgo Rescued by KRI Nala Arrive in Banjarmasin

The marathon evacuation of the capsized KM Virgo Transport 8 continues, with 22 more survivors brought ashore at Trisakti Port in Banjarmasin by KRI Nala. This brings the total number of rescued passengers to 114, with most evacuated by sea and six airlifted to Sjamsudi Noor airbase.

China Responds to Calls by AI Leaders to Slow Technology Development

China has responded to appeals by AI industry leaders, including Anthropic's Dario Amodei, Sam Altman, and Elon Musk, to slow advanced AI development, urging instead for open, inclusive and cooperative global AI governance. Beijing, which launched the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organisation in July 2026 with 29 signatories including Indonesia, warned against 'fear-mongering and unhealthy competition'. The episode highlights the intensifying US-China rivalry over AI governance and commercialisation.

Minister calls for integrated approach to slum area rehabilitation

A minister has urged an integrated approach to slum rehabilitation, arguing that success cannot be measured by physical improvements alone but must include better quality of life and stronger local economies. Citing the Menteng Tenggulun project in Central Jakarta, where some 150 homes were renovated alongside roads and waste management, he emphasised cross-sector collaboration and continued government support through subsidised housing and home renovation programmes.

Gen Z Men Dominate Online Loan Defaults, OJK Chief Speaks Out

Non-performing loans in Indonesia's online lending (pindar) industry are dominated by young people, with Gen Z accounting for nearly half of problem financing as of July 2026. OJK executive Agusman said the 19-34 age group made up 48.22% of troubled outstanding loans, with men accounting for 54.22%. The regulator is pushing lenders to improve credit scoring and risk management, as pindar default rates far exceed those of other non-bank financial sectors.

Polda Metro Jaya's Harda Sub-Directorate Questions ATR/BPN Echelon 1 Official Over PTSL Land Mafia Case

Polda Metro Jaya is investigating an alleged land mafia operation within the 2019 Systematic Complete Land Registration (PTSL) programme in Bojonggede, Bogor, and has questioned an Echelon 1 official of the Ministry of ATR/BPN for some 15 hours. Investigators found 140 original land documents missing from the archives and evidence of data manipulation using bleach to alter ownership records. Police are pursuing charges under the Archives Law, anti-corruption statutes and possibly money laundering legislation.

New Finance Minister, Fiscal Challenges, and the Task of Economic Growth

Commission XI lawmaker Puteri Anetta Komarudin has urged newly appointed Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara to strengthen fiscal management by optimising state revenue and safeguarding the sustainability of the state budget. She highlighted the need for breakthroughs in tax, excise and non-tax revenue collection, alongside more effective state spending to accelerate economic growth.

FileWave Partners with Kinjo Tech to Expand Partner Network in Asia-Pacific

Swiss endpoint management provider FileWave has entered a strategic partnership with Singapore-based IT consultancy Kinjo Tech to grow its partner and reseller network across Asia-Pacific. Kinjo Tech, with teams in Singapore, Thailand, the Philippines, Indonesia and Malaysia, will support business development and new market opportunities in a region FileWave sees as a major growth opportunity.

Purbaya: As Finance Minister I Could Speak at Length, Now It's Pak Suahasil's Turn

Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa delivered an unusually short farewell speech at the handover ceremony of the finance minister post to Suahasil Nazara at the Djuanda I Building in Jakarta. Despite having prepared a lengthy text, Purbaya chose brevity, saying the moment belonged to his successor. His remarks drew laughter and applause from the audience.

Basarnas expands search area for KM Virgo victims to 4,600 nautical miles

Indonesia's National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas) has nearly doubled the search area for the 129 missing victims of the KM Virgo Transport 8 sinking to 4,600 nautical miles in the Masalembo waters of the Java Sea. As of Tuesday morning, 114 of the 243 people on board had been found, comprising 108 survivors and six dead, three days after the vessel lost contact whilst sailing from Surabaya to Banjarmasin.

Former Religious Affairs Official Claims He Faced Transfer Threats After Opposing Special Hajj Regulation

Nur Arifin, former Director of Umrah and Special Hajj Development at the Ministry of Religious Affairs, told the Jakarta Corruption Court he was once warned he could be transferred after objecting to a draft decree easing requirements for special hajj quotas. He testified in the trial of former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, who is accused of causing Rp 622 billion in state losses over the 2023-2024 additional hajj quota scheme.

4.33 Million Families Have Received Social Assistance Since DTSEN Was Introduced, Here Are the Facts

The government has recorded 4.33 million new beneficiary families entering social assistance programmes following the implementation of the National Single Social and Economic Data (DTSEN). According to the Head of the Government Communication Agency, Muhammad Qodari, DTSEN is not a one-off dataset but is continuously updated, integrating previously fragmented data sources such as Regsosek, DTKS and P3KE. He stressed that DTSEN serves as a social registry rather than a beneficiary list, with programme targeting remaining the responsibility of individual ministries and agencies.

Saudi Arabia Discovers 110 Million Tonnes of Rare Earth Minerals and Uranium near Madinah

Saudi Arabia has announced the discovery of around 110 million tonnes of rare earth minerals and uranium ore at the Jabal Sayid project in the Madinah region. The find, revealed by Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman at an IAEA conference in Vienna, could support the kingdom's ambitions to develop its own nuclear fuel cycle.

Mahyar Goes Missing While Diving in Lobang River, Simalungun, Found Dead

A 25-year-old man named Mahyar died after diving to the bottom of the Lobang River in Simalungun, North Sumatra. He was attempting to release a buoy rope when he failed to resurface, and a combined SAR team recovered his body from a depth of about ten metres later that night.

Indonesia Customs Seizes 3.9 Million Illegal Cigarettes in Southeast Sulawesi

Kendari Customs confiscated 3,907,080 illegal cigarettes across 233 enforcement operations in Southeast Sulawesi between January and early September 2026, preventing potential state revenue losses of around Rp4 billion. Investigations suggest the cigarettes originated from East Java, with the region's archipelagic geography posing monitoring challenges. Administrative fines under the ultimum remedium mechanism have additionally recovered Rp2.19 billion in state losses.

Replaced by Suahasil, Purbaya Says: Thank You for This Year's Cooperation

Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa formally handed over the post of Finance Minister to Suahasil Nazara on Tuesday, 15 September 2026. In a brief farewell speech, Purbaya thanked all parties for their cooperation over the past year. Suahasil, previously Deputy Finance Minister under both Purbaya and Sri Mulyani, expressed gratitude for Purbaya's leadership.

Partnering with Toyota and Pertamina, Indonesia Builds Modern Bioethanol Centre in Lampung

The Indonesian government has begun construction of a Bioethanol Development Centre in Pesawaran, Lampung, using sorghum as the primary feedstock. The project brings together the Ministry of Investment and Downstream Industry, the Lampung provincial government, Pertamina New and Renewable Energy, and Toyota's manufacturing and trading arms in a bid to strengthen national energy resilience amid petrol consumption of 36 million kilolitres per year.

One Year of the Ministry of Hajj, GP Parmusi Praises 'Expose the Hajj and Umrah Mafia' Hotline

As the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah marks its first anniversary, GP Parmusi has praised its newly launched complaint hotline aimed at exposing fraud and irregularities in hajj and umrah services. Parmusi chairman Kifah Gibraltar Bey Fananie said public participation is essential for transparent governance and urged that every report be professionally verified and followed up.

BRICS, BoP, and the Economic Price of Prabowo's Diplomacy

President Prabowo's declaration at the BRICS Summit in New Delhi that Indonesia refuses to be dictated to by any single power sits alongside commitments to Trump's Board of Peace, OECD accession, and a trade deal with the United States. The author argues that this multi-alignment strategy lacks clear metrics to assess what Indonesia actually gains from each commitment. A periodic economic diplomacy scorecard measuring market access, realised investment, job creation, technology transfer and new dependencies is needed to make 'free and active' foreign policy substantive.

This is the 2027 Eid Holiday Schedule According to the Joint Ministerial Decree

The Indonesian government has announced the national holidays and collective leave days for 2027, including two national holidays for Eid al-Fitr 1448 H on 10 and 11 March, plus three days of collective leave. The dates may still change pending the official determination of Eid by the Ministry of Religious Affairs' isbat session. In total, 2027 will have 18 national holidays and 8 collective leave days, as announced by Coordinating Minister Pratikno.

BPJS Kesehatan honours health facility commitment through Seva Paramahita Award

BPJS Kesehatan has held the Seva Paramahita Award 2026 ceremony to recognise health facilities committed to providing quality services under the National Health Insurance (JKN) programme. Officials stressed that JKN depends on collaboration across the entire health ecosystem, including the Health Ministry, local governments, and health facilities.

Yudo Sadewa, Purbaya's Son Who Went Viral Over His Remarks About His Father: His Education and Profession

Yudo Achilles Sadewa, son of former Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa, has drawn public attention after joking on Instagram about his father's removal from the cabinet by President Prabowo Subianto. The 2006-born graduate of the University of Indonesia is known as a young crypto trader who began trading with around Rp500,000 of his own savings. His remarks suggested his father should return to trading, which he claimed is far more lucrative than being a minister.

Sea Vessels Reluctant to Carry Electric Cars, Transport Ministry Explains Why

A number of Indonesian sea ferry operators remain reluctant to transport electric vehicles, and the Ministry of Transport says this is not due to a ban but rather operators' inability to meet safety requirements. The rules, set out in a 2024 circular, require electric vehicles to be placed on open decks with battery charge limited to 50%, alongside suitable firefighting equipment. The ministry has reissued the circular after complaints from service users.

UN: 40 Civilians Casualties in Yemen Conflict Since September

The UN Human Rights Office has verified 40 civilian casualties in Yemen since 1 September, including eight deaths, amid intensifying fighting between the Houthi movement and forces loyal to the internationally recognised government. Women and children account for around half of those killed and over half of the injured. The UN has called on all parties to protect civilians and allow unimpeded humanitarian access.

Handing the Finance Minister's Seat to Suahasil, Purbaya Delivers a Short Speech

Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa delivered a brief farewell speech as he handed over the post of Finance Minister to Suahasil Nazara, who was inaugurated by President Prabowo Subianto. The handover ceremony took place at the Finance Ministry's head office in Jakarta. Purbaya kept his remarks short, saying the continuation of the work now rests with Suahasil.

Business Leaders Hope Suahasil Will Pursue Pro-Growth Fiscal Policy and Cut Investment Obstacles

Indonesian business associations have welcomed the appointment of Suahasil Nazara as Finance Minister, citing his long experience at the Finance Ministry as vital for maintaining fiscal stability amid global uncertainty. Kadin and Apindo urged him to adopt pro-growth fiscal policies and resolve regulatory and licensing bottlenecks hindering investment. Suahasil was sworn in by President Prabowo Subianto, replacing Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa, with instructions to safeguard the credibility of the state budget.

Observer applauds used cooking oil as a sustainable energy source

Energy analyst Feiral Rizky Batubara has praised PT Pertamina's development of used cooking oil (UCO) into Sustainable Aviation Fuel as evidence of Indonesia's commitment to the energy transition. He noted that beyond emission reductions, the initiative could strengthen national energy security, reduce import dependence and build a new domestic industrial ecosystem. Key challenges include establishing adequate collection systems, economic incentives, quality standards and traceability.

US Deploys Weapons in Space

The United States has confirmed for the first time that it has placed weapons in Earth's orbit. Air Force Secretary Troy Meink said the deployment is necessary to protect US forces, though he declined to give details of the capabilities involved. The move follows growing concerns over Russian and Chinese programmes aimed at attacking or disrupting US satellites, and forms part of the Trump administration's 'Golden Dome' defence system plan.

Man in Denpasar Has Hands Taped by Victim's Family After Beating 16-Year-Old Girlfriend

A 26-year-old man identified as GS has been named a suspect by Denpasar police for allegedly assaulting his 16-year-old girlfriend, KA, whom he had been dating for three months. The victim's family tracked GS to his boarding house and bound his hands with tape after he resisted, before handing him over to Denpasar Polresta. Police stressed that the detention was carried out by the family, not by officers.

Following Acquisition, This Indonesian Listed Company Plans Rights Issue of 2 Billion Shares

PT Leyand International Tbk (LAPD), an investment company recently taken over by JSI Sinergi Mas, plans a rights issue of up to 2 billion shares at an indicative price of Rp50, potentially raising up to Rp100 billion. The plan, pending shareholder approval at an EGM on 20 October 2026, follows a mandatory tender offer completed after the takeover in November 2025.

Ombudsman reminds IPDN 2026 selection to be transparent and accountable

The Ombudsman of the Republic of Indonesia has urged that every stage of the selection process for new cadets of the Institute of Domestic Governance (IPDN) be conducted transparently and accountably. Ombudsman member Partono said he would actively monitor the process to minimise public complaints and enable faster follow-up. Administrative verification has been completed, with results to be announced following a plenary decision.

Cooperatives to Become Bioethanol Feedstock Procurement Hubs — Here's the Scheme

The government is preparing a cooperative scheme to strengthen the raw material supply chain of the national bioethanol industry, linking farmers as feedstock suppliers with bioethanol processing facilities as offtakers. Deputy Minister of Investment and Downstream Industry Todotua Pasaribu said the scheme ties into four core agendas: energy security, downstream processing, energy transition and economic resilience.

Police Hunt Former Sleman Islamic Boarding School Official Over Rape of Former Student

Sleman police have named a former administrator of the Ash-Sholihah Jonggrangan Islamic boarding school, known as NH, as a suspect in the alleged rape of a former female student identified as FN (21). The suspect fled before a police report was filed on 7 September 2026 and now faces up to 12 years in prison under the Sexual Violence Crimes Law. Six witnesses have been examined, and police are tracking the suspect's whereabouts, though he has not yet been placed on the wanted persons list.

Wreck of KM Virgo Transport 8 Found at 30 Metres' Depth, Basarnas Considers Next Steps

The wreck of KM Virgo Transport 8, which sank in the Java Sea, has been located at a depth of around 30 metres. Basarnas is weighing whether to tow the vessel into shallower waters, though the Indonesian Navy has recommended leaving the wreck on the seabed if it remains stable. Search and rescue operations continue across six mapped sectors, with the search area potentially shifting in coming days.

Day 8 of Search for Missing Journalists Covering Anak Krakatau: Land Sweep from Carita to Anyer

The joint SAR team has expanded its search for eight people who lost contact in waters around Mount Anak Krakatau in the Sunda Strait into its eighth day. Land sweeps along the coast from Carita to Anyer have been added to sea and air operations, involving 647 personnel, two helicopters and 20 vessels. The main obstacle remains the unknown last known position of the vessel carrying the missing individuals.

Full list of Galeri24-Antam-UBS gold prices at Pegadaian on Tuesday

Pegadaian quoted gold prices on Tuesday at 11.06 WIB, with Galeri24, Antam and UBS gold at Rp2,541,000, Rp2,631,000 and Rp2,566,000 per gram respectively. Prices are subject to change at any time. Galeri24 is sold in quantities from 0.5 grams up to 1 kilogram, UBS up to 500 grams and Antam up to 100 grams.

President Director Caught in KPK Sting Operation, Summarecon (SMRA) Shares Plunge 7%

Shares of PT Summarecon Agung Tbk. (SMRA) fell more than 7% in the first trading session after its President Director, Adrianto Pitojo Adhi, was arrested in a Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) sting operation at the Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning. The operation netted 17 suspects, including senior land agency officials, with evidence including around 20 suitcases of cash estimated at hundreds of billions of rupiah.

SAR Team Sweeps Islands Around Mount Anak Krakatau in Search for Missing Journalists

A joint SAR team has been combing islands around Mount Anak Krakatau in the Sunda Strait for five journalists and three crew members missing since Monday 7 September. Land sweeps of Sertung, Rakata and Panjang islands have so far yielded nothing, with diving operations hampered by the vast search area and the unknown last position of the vessel Arupadhatu 1.

25 Fortified Rice Brands Fail to Meet Standards, Here Are Their Names

Agriculture Minister and head of the National Food Agency, Amran Sulaiman, has named 25 fortified rice brands suspected of failing laboratory standards. The products, sold at prices far above fair value, are suspected of causing consumer losses of up to Rp89 trillion, prompting the government to order withdrawals, licence revocations and legal proceedings.

Two Women Escape After Being Held Hostage by Armed Criminal Group, Survived 20 Days Without Food in Mimika Forest

Two of nine residents kidnapped by an armed criminal group (KKB) in Mimika, Central Papua, have escaped captivity. One survivor endured around 20 days without food or drink in the forest, though the other woman was found deceased. The evacuation was carried out by the Cartenz Peace Operation task force together with Mimika police and local community figures.

The Moment a Former Finance Minister Wept at His Farewell After Being Replaced by the Indonesian President

Mar'ie Muhammad, Indonesia's 18th Finance Minister, wept openly before thousands of Finance Ministry employees as he bade farewell after President Soeharto removed him from office on 16 March 1998. His dismissal came amid growing rifts with Soeharto during the Asian financial crisis, including disagreements over the closure of 16 banks and the President's economic decisions. After leaving office, Mar'ie lived as an ordinary citizen, engaging in humanitarian and anti-corruption activities until his death in December 2016.

State Finance Bill Drafted Using Omnibus Law Scheme — What Will Change?

Commission XI of the Indonesian House of Representatives has begun deliberating amendments to the State Finance Law using an omnibus law approach, aimed at aligning existing rules with new legislation, particularly the 2025 SOE laws that shifted the state shareholder role from the Finance Minister to the Danantara Investment Management Agency. The changes affect SOE dividend management, the state budget, and the Finance Minister's role as General Treasurer of the State. Experts also highlighted untapped potential in non-tax state revenues, including renewable energy sectors lacking regulatory bases.

China responds to proposal to slow down AI development

Beijing has responded to calls from AI industry figures including Dario Amodei, Sam Altman and Elon Musk for companies to slow the development of advanced AI, with a Foreign Ministry spokesman stressing that AI benefits all humanity and urging open, inclusive development. Guo Jiakun warned that spreading fear and unhealthy competition would only hinder good global AI governance. The remarks come as China spearheads a global AI cooperation framework signed by 29 countries, including Indonesia.

Suahasil and the tuning of Prabowo's fiscal machine

Suahasil Nazara's appointment as Finance Minister, replacing Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa, comes at a critical moment as the government drafts the 2027 state budget. With a 6 per cent growth target and a deficit planned at 2.40 per cent of GDP, he must balance fiscal discipline with expansionary priorities. His long insider experience in fiscal policymaking is seen as key to maintaining continuity.

Germany Wants Indonesia to Buy More Airbus Military Planes

German Ambassador Ralf Beste said Berlin hopes Indonesia will purchase additional Airbus A400M military transport aircraft, following the delivery of two units under a 2021 contract. President Prabowo Subianto earlier signalled that Indonesia might negotiate for four more units, with the Defence Ministry still exploring the plan. The Defence Ministry's budget stands at Rp 187.1 trillion this year and is expected to rise to Rp 189 trillion in 2027.

Take Note! Here Is the List of 18 National Holidays and 8 Collective Leave Days in 2027

The Indonesian government has officially set 18 national holidays and 8 collective leave days for 2027 through a joint ministerial decree. The decision was finalised at a ministerial meeting chaired by Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture Pratikno. The majority of the holidays are religious observances.

For the First Time, the US Admits to Placing Weapons in Space

The US Space Force has confirmed for the first time that America possesses weapons deployed in orbit, capable of defending joint forces against hostile actions. The announcement, which did not specify the weapons involved, comes amid concerns over China's and Russia's counter-space capabilities and the broader militarisation of space.

Purbaya Arrives at Finance Ministry, Smiles Ahead of Handover to Suahasil

Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa arrived at the Finance Ministry's Djuanda I building ahead of the official handover of the finance minister post to Suahasil Nazara, who was sworn in by President Prabowo Subianto. Senior officials including the Bank Indonesia Governor and the LPS chairman were present for the ceremony, which was scheduled for 10.30am local time.

Ministry of Trade: Global sentiment drives continued rise in gold prices

The Ministry of Trade has raised the export benchmark price (HPE) and reference price (HR) of gold for the second half of September 2026, citing a weaker US dollar, falling bond yields and international rate cuts. The HPE was set at US$144,469.49 per kilogram, up 1.63 per cent, while the reference price rose to US$4,493.51 per troy ounce. The determination was formalised through Ministerial Decree No. 1817 of 2026, coordinated across several ministries.

Panasonic Gobel Wins Indonesia Most Reputable Companies Award 2026

PT Panasonic Gobel Indonesia has won the Indonesia Most Reputable Companies Award 2026 in the Consumer Electronics category, marking its fourth consecutive year of recognition. The award, presented by SWA Magazine and Business Digest, was based on independent surveys of 5,000 customers across six major Indonesian cities.

Star-Moon Spectacle Lights Up Indonesian Skies Last Night, Astronomer Explains

Parts of Indonesia witnessed the occultation of Venus by the Moon on Monday night, a phenomenon that went viral on social media as netizens shared photographs of the crescent moon beside a bright light. The Bosscha Observatory explained that the event occurs when the Moon passes directly between Earth and Venus, temporarily hiding the planet from view.

Indonesia and Bulgaria explore expansion of food and agricultural markets

Indonesia and Bulgaria have explored expanding market access for food and agricultural products, alongside investment and technology cooperation, in talks between Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan and Bulgarian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Poulev in Jakarta. Indonesia offered cocoa, coconut, palm oil and halal products, while Bulgaria proposed supplying milk, beef, maize and wheat flour. Bilateral trade stood at US$230.8 million in 2025, with Indonesia recording a surplus of US$64.2 million.

Kim Jong Un affirms support for Putin and Russian victory

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has declared unwavering support for Russian President Vladimir Putin and expressed firm confidence in Russia's victory in its war. In a reply telegram marking the 78th anniversary of North Korea's founding, Kim pledged to expand the alliance between the two nations.

Indonesia Dispatches Firefighting Equipment to Five Kalimantan Provinces

Indonesia's Ministry of Public Works has dispatched 13 units of firefighting equipment, including mobile pumps, water tanker trucks, and centrifugal pumps, to five Kalimantan provinces to bolster the response to forest and land fires. The shipment, sent by sea from Tanjung Priok Port, will be distributed through River Basin Agencies across the island, supplementing existing resources and supporting water supply needs in affected areas.

Lanal Banjarmasin RBB Vessel Evacuates 22 Survivors from KM Virgo

An RBB vessel from the Banjarmasin Naval Base successfully transferred 22 survivors of KM Virgo Transport 8 from KRI Nala to Trisakti Port on Tuesday morning, after the operation was postponed due to high swells and waves off Tabunio. As of Tuesday, Basarnas confirmed 114 victims had been found — 108 survivors and six dead — with 129 people still missing from the 243 aboard the vessel, which lost contact in the Masalembo waters of the Java Sea on Sunday.

U.S. Soy Marks 45 Years of Partnership with Indonesia

The U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC) is celebrating 45 years of partnership with Indonesia, which has become one of the world's largest importers of U.S. whole soyabeans. U.S. Soy now supplies nearly 90 per cent of Indonesia's imported soyabean needs, with demand expected to grow substantially in the feed and aquaculture sectors by 2035. USSEC says it will continue working with the Indonesian government and industry partners to strengthen food security and sustainable supply chains.

Amran Exposes 25 Brands Involved in Fortified Rice Violations

Agriculture Minister and National Food Agency head Amran Sulaiman revealed that 25 of 27 fortified rice brands tested failed to meet standards, with laboratory results allegedly showing contents not matching their labels. The government estimates consumer losses of Rp89 trillion and has ordered the products withdrawn, licences revoked, and legal proceedings initiated.

Minister of Cooperatives: Syarikat Islam's Legacy as the Root of Economic Strengthening Through Cooperatives

Minister of Cooperatives Ferry Juliantono has declared that national economic development now rests on three pillars: sharia economics, cooperatives, and the management of zakat and waqf, all of which he traced back to Syarikat Islam's historical roots. Speaking at an event in Banjarnegara, Central Java, he highlighted that Syarikat Dagang Islam pioneered cooperatives in 1913 and that under President Prabowo Subianto, cooperatives are being pushed beyond savings and loans into production, distribution and industry.

Maths Genius Who Rejected MIT to Become a Monk Now Sells Online

Liu Zhiyu, a Chinese mathematics prodigy who won gold at the International Mathematical Olympiad and turned down a fully funded place at MIT to become a Buddhist monk, has reinvented himself as an online entrepreneur. Now married with a son, he livestreams psychology and traditional Chinese culture courses for more than ten hours a day from a converted one-bedroom flat in Beijing. After around three years, his business has yet to make him wealthy but is no longer loss-making.

Hana Fadel Submits Candidate Requirements, Hopes IWAPI National Congress Steering Committee Acts Democratically and Honestly

Hana Hassana Fadel Muhammad has submitted additional documents to the steering committee ahead of the IWAPI National Congress in November, fulfilling a request issued on 29 August. Her candidacy process has been cooperative, with 12 official documents already accepted as complete. She called on the committee to work professionally, democratically, honestly and fairly.

Chinese Tourist Who Fell Unconscious on Mount Rinjani Successfully Evacuated

A 47-year-old Chinese national, Li Xianhua, was successfully evacuated after falling and losing consciousness while climbing Mount Rinjani via the Senaru route in North Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara. A joint SAR team reached the victim at around 20.15 WITA and transported her to the Nusa Medica Clinic in Sembalun, where she was treated for a broken leg and head injuries before being referred to Siloam Hospital in Mataram.

Haze Blankets Pekanbaru, Parents Anxious as Children Still Attend School in Person

Thick haze from forest and land fires continues to blanket Pekanbaru, Riau, with residents reporting breathing difficulties and irritated eyes. Parents are worried that secondary and senior high school students are still required to attend classes in person rather than switching to online learning despite the hazardous conditions.

Government Sets 2027 Public Holidays: 18 National Holidays, 8 Collective Leave Days

The Indonesian government has established 18 national holidays and 8 collective leave days for 2027 through a joint ministerial decree signed by the Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture, the Minister of Religious Affairs, the Minister of State Apparatus Empowerment and Bureaucratic Reform, and the Minister of Manpower. Most of the national holidays are religious observances, with the collective leave arrangements taking into account public mobility, weekend positioning and Eid homecoming travel.

Sting Operation at Bogor Land Office: KPK Arrests Summarecon Boss Adrianto Pitojo

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has confirmed that Adrianto Pitojo Adhi, President Director of PT Summarecon Agung Tbk, was among 17 people caught in a sting operation at the Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency (ATR/BPN). Those arrested include the heads of the Bogor and Tangerang land offices as well as a director general at the ministry. The operation relates to building rights title (HGB) processing in Bogor Regency, with evidence including cash estimated at hundreds of billions of rupiah.

ANTARA strengthens its role as Indonesia's gateway to Asia and the world

At the AsiaNet Board Meeting in Singapore, ANTARA's President Director Benny Siga Butar-butar proposed that cooperation among news agencies move beyond information distribution towards trust and local understanding. He positioned ANTARA as a gateway connecting AsiaNet to Indonesia's information ecosystem, and proposed consolidating members' local expertise into Asian market intelligence. He also argued artificial intelligence should be treated as a support tool rather than a threat.

Edwin Soeryadjaya Buys 1.02 Million SRTG Shares at Rp1,815

Edwin Soeryadjaya, Commissioner and controlling shareholder of PT Saratoga Investama Sedaya Tbk (SRTG), has purchased 1.02 million shares, or 0.01% of the company, at an average price of Rp1,815 per share, totalling around Rp1.8 billion. Following the transaction on 10–11 September, his stake in the investment firm rose to 35.9%. This follows earlier share purchases in February 2026 of some 1.53 million shares.

Police arrest child rapist in North Jakarta

Tanjung Priok Port Police arrested a 26-year-old man, initials VIJAP, on suspicion of twice raping a 14-year-old boy at his boarding house in Muara Angke, Penjaringan, North Jakarta. The case came to light after the victim's behaviour changed at school and at home, prompting teachers and residents to alert police. The suspect faces up to 15 years' imprisonment under the new Criminal Code and the Sexual Violence Law.

SAR Team Sweeps Sertung, Rakata and Panjang Islands, Trace of Five Missing Journalists Covering Anak Krakatau Still Draws Blank

A joint SAR team has expanded the search for eight people, including five journalists, who lost contact after boarding the Arupadatu speed boat in the Sunda Strait, sweeping Sertung, Rakata and Panjang islands around the Anak Krakatau volcano cluster. Ground searches of the islands have so far yielded no trace, as the operation's extension runs until Thursday, 17 September. Basarnas Banten said personnel had combed the entire land area of Sertung, while an earlier search covered Sebesi Island in South Lampung.

Defying the Gloom: How 20 Mega Investments Shattered the "Bleak Future" Forecast

At least 20 mega-scale strategic investment projects have reached operational or active construction stages by September 2026, spanning battery ecosystems, petrochemicals, LNG, renewables and AI data centres, according to Danantara data. Nine facilities are already operating, including a $6 billion CATL-IBC-ANTAM battery complex in Karawang, BYD's $1 billion EV plant and Pertamina's $7.4 billion Balikpapan refinery expansion, while an eleven-project pipeline features the $20.9 billion Abadi Field LNG development. The wave of capital confirms Indonesia's structural shift from raw mineral exporter towards high-value manufacturing and digital infrastructure, though challenges remain in converting investment into skilled jobs and technology transfer.

Antam Gold Price Falls Further, Here is the Complete List

The price of Antam gold bars declined by Rp10,000 to Rp2,592,000 per gram in Jakarta, with the buyback price also easing to Rp2,437,000 per gram. Transactions remain subject to a 1.5 per cent Article 22 income tax on buybacks above Rp10 million, and a 0.25 per cent tax applies to purchases.

Sad News: Former DIY Police Chief Inspector General Haka Astana Passes Away

Inspector General (retired) RM Haka Astana Mantika Widya, former Chief of the Yogyakarta Regional Police, has passed away at Jogja International Hospital at around 05.10 local time. The Yogyakarta Regional Police are preparing an official funeral ceremony in honour of his service, and he was most recently serving as Deputy Chairman of the DIY Indonesian Red Cross.

Minister Nazara's task is to make policy predictable: Economist

Economist Fulvian has outlined key priorities for Finance Minister Nazara, stressing that policy credibility hinges on predictability, clear sequencing and defined targets. He urged stronger coordination with Bank Indonesia, banks, investors and SOEs, alongside fiscal discipline, better budget quality beyond deficit figures, and aligning tax strategy with economic formalisation.

IHSG Predicted to Move Sideways Today: Market Watches Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara and The Fed

Indonesia's composite index (IHSG) is expected to trade sideways as investors focus on the leadership transition at the Finance Ministry and the US Federal Reserve's upcoming policy meeting. President Prabowo Subianto has sworn in Suahasil Nazara as Finance Minister, replacing Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa, a move analysts see as positive for fiscal discipline. Markets are also watching the FOMC meeting, with a 73% probability of a 25-basis-point rate hike.

House of Representatives Reveals Direction of State Finance Law Revision — Here Are the Key Points

Commission XI of the House of Representatives (DPR) has begun deliberations on revising the State Finance Law, holding a public hearing with four economists as part of public participation in drafting the new bill. Lawmakers stressed the need to revisit the philosophical and constitutional foundations of state wealth management under Article 33 of the 1945 Constitution, including the state's role in sectors vital to the public. They also highlighted unresolved questions over state responsibility for SOE debts, weak dividend contributions to non-tax revenue, and the need to clearly define Danantara's position.

New Finance Minister Sworn In, IHSG and Rupiah Remain Sluggish

Indonesia's Composite Stock Price Index (IHSG) was expected to move sideways as markets assessed the policies of newly appointed Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara, who replaced Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa. Analysts hope the appointment will preserve fiscal credibility and keep the budget deficit below 3 per cent of GDP. Meanwhile, investors are watching the US Federal Reserve's meeting, with a 73 per cent probability of a 25 basis point rate hike.

War Journalism Training Held in Türkiye, 16 Southeast Asian and Pacific Journalists Take Part

Anadolu Agency has opened the 30th edition of its War Journalism Training Programme at its Ankara headquarters, involving 25 journalists including 16 from Southeast Asia and the Pacific. Indonesia is represented by a journalist from Republika, with participants trained in first aid, ballistics, survival skills, counter-disinformation and drone threats over 12 days. This year's programme, organised with the Turkish Police Academy and TIKA, includes geopolitics of Asia for the first time and is dedicated to journalists killed in Gaza.

Eyeing Eastern European Markets, Indonesia Partners with Bulgaria to Boost Exports

Indonesia is positioning Bulgaria as a gateway for national products into the European Union market, with the Trade Ministry seeking Bulgarian support for the implementation of the I-EU CEPA targeted for early 2027. During a meeting in Jakarta, Trade Minister Budi Santoso and Bulgarian Deputy Prime Minister and Economy Minister Alexander Poulev discussed expanding cooperation in agriculture, automotive components and halal meat products. Bulgarian businesses have been invited to Trade Expo Indonesia 2026 in October.

Automechanika Jakarta debuts with more than 300 automotive companies

The Automechanika Jakarta trade fair, the first Indonesian edition of the global Automechanika network, will take place from 24–27 September 2026 at Nusantara International Convention Center in Tangerang, Banten. It will feature over 300 domestic and international component and aftermarket manufacturers, with backing from several government ministries and industry associations. The event makes Indonesia the 15th country to host the exhibition network.

Police seize 7.2 kg of methamphetamine, arrest suspect in Jakarta

Central Jakarta police arrested a 35-year-old suspect, identified as SH, in Grogol Petamburan and seized 7.2 kg of methamphetamine following a tip-off about suspicious activity in West Jakarta. The suspect, allegedly acting as an intermediary for a wanted dealer, faces charges under Indonesia's 2009 Narcotics Law carrying the death penalty or up to life imprisonment. Authorities estimate the seizure prevented the drugs from reaching some 72,200 young people.

The Secret of Interstellar Comet 3I/ATLAS: Born in the Coldest, Darkest Region

More than a year after interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS was first detected, astronomers have for the first time analysed charged particles in its tail, revealing an unusually high nitrogen content. The findings, led by researcher Lea Ferellec using the WEAVE instrument in the Canary Islands, suggest the comet formed in extremely cold conditions, below -240 degrees Celsius, far from its parent star.

Ahead of Handover Ceremony Between Suahasil and Purbaya, BI Governor and LPS Chairman Arrive at Finance Ministry

Dignitaries including Bank Indonesia Governor Destry Damayanti and LPS Commissioner Council Chairman Anggito Abimanyu arrived at the Finance Ministry's Juanda I building in Jakarta ahead of the handover ceremony between outgoing Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara and successor Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa. The ceremony is scheduled for 10.30 WIB. Congratulatory flower boards from senior officials, lawmakers and SOE executives have filled the ministry's grounds.

The Pokemon Company's Strategy to Keep Growing its Indonesian Fanbase

The Pokemon Company (TPC) is launching a series of initiatives in Indonesia, including 'Poke Wayang' and 'Pikachu's Indonesia Journey', to expand its fanbase in a country that is already the world's top viewer of its Pokemon Kids TV YouTube channel. Speaking in Jakarta, TPC COO Takato Utsunomiya said Indonesia is a market under serious consideration, noting that at least ten Indonesians are employed at the company. The Poke Wayang collaboration, blending Pokemon with Indonesian shadow puppetry and gamelan music, will premiere at the World Conference on Creative Economy in October 2026.

Ukraine Increasingly Cornered: Interceptor Missiles Running Out, $27 Billion War Deficit

Ukraine is facing one of its gravest phases since Russia's full-scale invasion, with dwindling stocks of interceptor missiles, intensified Russian ballistic missile production, and a $27 billion defence funding shortfall for 2026. European allies, who believed Kyiv's financing needs were largely covered by over $100 billion in international packages, were reportedly stunned by the announcement. The gap between urgent defence needs and slow weapons delivery schedules is deepening as winter approaches and Russia continues striking energy and civilian infrastructure.

Ultra Micro Holding Helps Mur Dwi Astuti Succeed as a Farmer in Merauke

Mur Dwi Astuti, a rice farmer in Merauke, Papua, gradually built her business using the Ultra Micro Holding ecosystem, starting with gold pawning at Pegadaian before moving on to BRI's Micro People's Business Credit (KUR). The financing enabled her to expand her farmland from one hectare to three, despite challenges from weather, water scarcity and pests. Her experience illustrates how BRI, Pegadaian and PNM support small businesses in climbing the financing ladder as their capital needs grow.

Chinese hiker rescued after slipping on Mount Rinjani

A Chinese hiker, Li Xianhua, was rescued after slipping on the Senaru-Batu Ceper trail on Mount Rinjani and suffering a severe head injury that left her unconscious. A joint SAR operation involving the national park office, police, military post, clinics and local guides reached the victim on Monday evening and completed the evacuation to Senaru by early Tuesday. The Mataram SAR chief confirmed the operation had officially closed after the victim was taken to Nusa Medica Clinic Sembalun.

Search for Missing Journalists' Boat Extended to Bengkulu

The search operation for a group of journalists who lost contact near the waters of Mount Anak Krakatau in the Sunda Strait has been expanded to Bengkulu, based on estimates that currents may have carried victims towards Sumatra. Around 647 personnel and some twenty vessels were deployed on the eighth day of operations, covering roughly 3,900 nautical miles. Bengkulu police have also carried out DNA sampling on unidentified bodies found on Enggano Island that may be linked to the missing journalists.

Rupiah Predicted to Strengthen After Suahasil Nazara Sworn In as Finance Minister

The rupiah is expected to strengthen against the US dollar following the appointment of Suahasil Nazara as Finance Minister, replacing Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa. Analysts attribute the positive market response to Suahasil's track record as Deputy Finance Minister since October 2019, which offers greater policy certainty. However, gains may be limited by external factors, including high global oil prices and cautious sentiment ahead of the Federal Reserve's expected 25 basis point rate hike.

Minister of Housing: Slum Settlement Handling Must Be Integrated

Minister of Housing and Settlements Maruarar Sirait has stated that slum areas must be tackled in an integrated and comprehensive manner, encompassing not only physical improvements but also residents' quality of life and economic empowerment. Citing the Menteng Tenggulun project in Central Jakarta, where around 150 houses were renovated alongside roads, environment and waste management, he stressed cross-sector collaboration. The government is also pushing housing provision through subsidised schemes and the Bedah Rumah programme for uninhabitable homes.

Fahd A Rafiq Caught in KPK Sting Operation, Golkar Respects Legal Process

Golkar politician Fahd El Fouz, also known as Fahd A Rafiq, was among those arrested in a sting operation by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) at the Bogor Regency National Land Agency office. Golkar Secretary-General Sarmuji said the party respects the legal process and will take action against its cadre once the facts are clarified. The KPK has 24 hours to determine the legal status of those arrested, including senior land ministry and local government officials.

Survivors of KMP Virgo treated at several hospitals in Banjarmasin

Survivors of the KMP Virgo Transport 8 accident on the Surabaya-Banjarmasin route are receiving treatment at several hospitals in Banjarmasin, South Kalimantan. The provincial government has prepared accommodation for 59 passengers declared healthy, while the search continues for 129 people still missing. Jasa Raharja will handle insurance claims for passengers and vehicles.

Pramono signs regulation on Jakarta LPDP

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has signed Governor's Regulation No. 20 of 2026 establishing the Jakarta LPDP scholarship, known as Beasiswa Jakarta Unggul, funding master's and doctoral studies at the world's best universities. The provincial government has allocated around Rp100 billion, with registration planned to open in September 2027 for the 2027 academic year. The regulation also tightens governance of the KJP Plus and KJMU education assistance cards.

Public Works Ministry deploys forest fire equipment to five Kalimantan provinces

The Ministry of Public Works has dispatched firefighting equipment to five provinces in Kalimantan to accelerate the handling of forest and land fires and help meet water needs in affected areas. Thirteen additional units, including mobile pumps, water tank trucks and alkon pumps, were shipped from Tanjung Priok Port via the River Basin Offices in each province. The ministry says it will continue coordinating with the River Basin Offices to ensure the equipment is ready for deployment during emergencies.

Barrage of Houthi Missiles and Drones Strikes Saudi Arabia, Wounding 13

A coordinated barrage of missiles and drones launched by Yemen's Houthi rebels struck at least three Saudi cities, wounding 13 civilians and damaging homes and vehicles. The attack follows Houthi claims that Saudi warplanes carried out 54 air strikes across five Yemeni provinces within 24 hours, marking a sharp escalation of a conflict that had been largely quiet under a 2022 truce.

Causing Public Unrest, OJK Shuts Down 27 Illegal Pawnshops

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK), through its PASTI task force, has halted the operations of 27 illegal pawnshop entities between January and 31 August 2026. OJK is also promoting sharia pawnshop development and addressing the gap between pawnshop literacy (52.82%) and inclusion (7.99%) as part of its 2025-2030 pawnshop roadmap.

Malaysian Influencer Aisar Khaled Reported to Police over Alleged Fraud

A Malaysian influencer, Aisar Khaled, has been reported to Jakarta Metropolitan Police by an Indonesian agency over alleged fraud involving an unpaid investment obligation of around Rp5.7 billion. The company's lawyers said efforts at amicable settlement and formal demands failed, prompting the criminal report under Articles 492, 486 and 607 of the Criminal Code.

Mount Semeru Erupts 30 Times in 6 Hours, Explosions Heard

Mount Semeru in Lumajang, East Java, erupted 30 times within a six-hour observation period, with some eruptions accompanied by weak to strong explosion sounds. The volcano remains at Level III alert, and residents have been warned against activities along the Besuk Kobokan sector and riverbanks due to risks of pyroclastic flows, lava collapses and lahars.

Kendari Customs seizes 3.9 million illegal cigarettes circulating in Southeast Sulawesi

Kendari Customs (KPPBC TMP C) has secured 3,907,080 illegal cigarettes across 233 enforcement operations in Southeast Sulawesi from January to early September 2026, saving an estimated Rp4 billion in state losses. The smuggled cigarettes are believed to originate from East Java, and the agency has also recovered Rp2.19 billion through administrative fines under the ultimum remedium mechanism.

Bornean orangutan spotted three times along East Kalimantan road

A protected Bornean orangutan (Pongo pygmaeus) has been repeatedly sighted foraging along the Sangatta-Rantau Pulung road near Kutai National Park in East Kalimantan. The animals typically emerge in the late afternoon to eat seeds and young leaves, prompting concerns about traffic accidents as vehicles must stop and wait for them to cross or return to the forest.

Fires Persist, East Kotawaringin in Central Kalimantan Extends Forest Fire Emergency Status

The East Kotawaringin regency government has extended its emergency response status for forest and land fires as well as drought for a second time, effective until 30 September 2026. The decision follows evaluations showing new fire hotspots and smouldering burnt areas still requiring cooling operations.

Pokemon Company: Video Games Remain a Vital Platform for the Company

The Pokemon Company (TPC) says video games remain its most important business platform, as new Pokemon characters are born from video games produced by GameFreak. Speaking to ANTARA in Jakarta, COO Takato Utsunomiya outlined the company's other key lines, including Pokemon GO, the Pokemon Trading Card Game Pocket app launched in 150 countries in October 2024, and physical merchandise.

State Finance Law Revision: DPR Questions the Boundaries of State and Private Sector Roles

The Chair of Commission XI of the House of Representatives, Muhammad Misbakhun, has urged that the revision of Law No. 17 of 2003 on State Finance be redirected towards national interests rather than foreign interests. He called for a re-evaluation of which economic sectors should remain under state control and which can be left to the private sector, in line with Article 33 of the 1945 Constitution. Misbakhun also stressed the need for consistency in managing separated state assets, such as capital injections into state-owned enterprises.

Malaysian Influencer Aisar Khaled Reported to Police Over Alleged Rp 5.7 Billion Fraud

Malaysian influencer Aisar Khaled has been reported to Jakarta Metro Police by an Indonesian agency over an alleged fraud worth Rp 5.7 billion. The case stems from an investment agreement signed in February 2026, under which Aisar allegedly promised to settle his obligations through live appearances at events, but contact ceased after July 2026.