Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 8 September 2026

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Residents Near Mount Anak Krakatau Urged to Remain Vigilant Despite Decreasing Volcanic Activity

The Indonesian Government Communication Agency (Bakom) has advised residents near Mount Anak Krakatau to remain cautious and avoid unverified social media reports. Although volcanic activity has stabilised following the eruption on 4 September, authorities are urging the use of masks and reliance on official government channels to prevent panic.

Airlangga: Indonesia's Islamic Finance Assets Strengthening, Reaching Rp3,131 Trillion

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto announced that Indonesia's Islamic financial assets have reached Rp3,131 trillion, placing the nation among the top four globally. The growth is supported by expanding halal certification and a significant rise in global Muslim consumer spending.

Normal, PVMBG: Mount Bukit Kaba has experienced only one local tectonic earthquake

The Centre for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG) has confirmed that Mount Bukit Kaba in Bengkulu remains in a normal state. Despite a single recorded local tectonic earthquake, there are currently no indications of increased volcanic activity or changes to climbing access.

Indonesia to shift controlling stakeholder of China-funded railway next week

The Indonesian government is set to transfer a 60 per cent controlling stake in the operator of the Whoosh high-speed railway to either the Indonesia Investment Authority or Sarana Multi Infrastructure next week. This restructuring follows significant cost overruns on the US$7.3 billion project and includes an agreement with China to extend the loan tenure to 80 years. Plans are also underway to extend the railway line further east towards Surabaya.

Promoting School Library Strengthening, Member of Parliament: Improve Human Resource Quality and Literacy

Adela Kanasya Adies, a member of Commission X of the Indonesian House of Representatives, has welcomed the increased budget allocation for the National Library of Indonesia for the 2027 fiscal year. The budget is set to rise by approximately 15.3 per cent to Rp417.725 billion, with a focus on enhancing literacy programmes in rural and remote areas.

Indonesia expedites transformation of migrant worker governance

The Indonesian Ministry for the Protection of Migrant Workers is partnering with the national police to establish a dedicated desk for handling migrant worker cases. The initiative focuses on strengthening pre-departure protections to prevent human trafficking and upgrading the skill levels of workers through the 'SMK Go Global' programme.

Australian Protesters Call for Expulsion of Israeli Ambassador Over Death of Gaza Volunteers

Protesters gathered outside the Israeli Embassy in Canberra to demand the expulsion of the Israeli Ambassador following the refusal to pursue criminal charges regarding the deaths of humanitarian volunteers in Gaza. The demonstration follows controversial statements from an Israeli military commander and calls for increased sanctions against Israel from Australian politicians.

Purbaya Plans to Withdraw Rp100 Trillion in Idle Regional Funds

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa intends to withdraw approximately Rp100 trillion in idle regional funds currently sitting in bank accounts. The move aims to reduce fund accumulation in the banking sector and ensure that transferred budgets are utilised effectively for regional needs.

Passenger Numbers at Mengwi Terminal Surge Following Flight Cancellations at Ngurah Rai

Passenger numbers at Mengwi Type A Terminal in Badung have increased by 34% due to flight cancellations at Ngurah Rai Airport caused by the eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau. This surge has led to an increase in intercity bus operations, particularly on routes heading towards Jakarta.

Anak Krakatau Eruption Could Cost Airlines up to Rp19 Billion Per Day

The eruption of Anak Krakatau poses a significant financial threat to airlines, with potential daily losses estimated between Rp10 billion and Rp19 billion. These costs stem from cancelled flights, increased operational expenses such as extra fuel, and passenger handling requirements.

Ministry of Women Empowerment and Child Protection Encourages MSMEs to Scale Up, Appreciates Women's Role in Pelindo's CSR Programme

The Indonesian Ministry of Women Empowerment and Child Protection has praised PT Pelabuhan Indonesia's (Pelindo) Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives for supporting women-led MSMEs. The Ministry hopes these programmes will enhance the competitiveness of small businesses, potentially leading to national and export-scale growth.

Venteny (VTNY) Records Rp 105.8 Billion Revenue in First Half of 2026

PT Venteny Fortuna International Tbk has reported a net revenue of Rp 105.8 billion for the first half of 2026, representing a 1.8% year-on-year growth. The company's performance was primarily driven by its B2B financial services and the expansion of its B2B2E Employee Super App ecosystem.

CORE: Strengthening business ecosystem to improve salt farmers' production quality

An economist from the Centre of Reform on Economics (CORE) Indonesia suggests that strengthening the salt business ecosystem is essential to help small-scale farmers improve production quality without bearing heavy technology costs alone. The proposal involves a collaborative model involving cooperatives, regional-owned enterprises (BUMD), and industrial users to manage investments in infrastructure and ensure market stability.

Beyond Managing National Fiscal Policy, This is Purbaya's Greatest Challenge as Finance Minister

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has revealed that his primary challenge has been restoring public and investor confidence amidst economic pressures. He utilised the macroeconomic principle of 'self-fulfilling prophecy' to shape positive economic expectations during periods of instability.

Purbaya: With Whoosh Debt Spread Over 80 Years, We Are Already Dead, Just Relax

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has revealed that the debt for the Jakarta-Bandung high-speed rail project, known as Whoosh, has been restructured with a repayment period of up to 80 years. This restructuring aims to reduce the annual instalment burden to approximately Rp1 trillion, easing the immediate financial pressure on the state.

Semen Indonesia (SMGR) Optimistic About Cement Industry Prospects Until 2027

PT Semen Indonesia Tbk (SMGR) anticipates a positive outlook for the cement industry through 2027, driven by government infrastructure programmes and private sector investments. The company is implementing strategic improvements in supply chain management and product portfolio diversification to maintain profitability.

Solar Power Most Sought After by Investors, Government to Evaluate Tax Holiday Incentive Schemes

The Indonesian Ministry of Investment has identified solar power as the most attractive renewable energy sector for investors due to advancing technology and lower risks. Consequently, the government is reviewing tax holiday incentives in response to the implementation of the Global Minimum Tax (GMT) to prevent tax revenue leakage to investors' home countries.

Gerindra Responds to AHY's Speech Perceived as a Signal for 2029 Presidential Bid

The Gerindra Party has stated it will not obstruct any political party's intention to nominate candidates for the 2029 Presidential Election. This response follows a speech by Democratic Party Chairman Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY) regarding the cycle of power and the right to be elected.

Purbaya Reveals Local Governments Hold Rp 100 Trillion in Excess Funds in Banks Annually

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has noted that local governments in Indonesia hold approximately Rp 100 trillion in excess liquidity within the banking system every year. He advised regional authorities to prioritise budget absorption for development rather than seeking alternative funding through municipal bonds.

Leading PBNU, Gus Kikin Promises to Continue Visiting PWNU East Java

The newly elected General Chairman of Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU), KH Abdul Hakim Mahfudz, known as Gus Kikin, has pledged to maintain close ties with the East Java regional leadership. Despite his new responsibilities in Jakarta, he intends to visit the East Java office at least once a month.

Examined for nearly 7 hours, Febrie Adriansyah questioned regarding Tan Kian

Former Special Crimes Prosecutor Febrie Adriansyah underwent a seven-hour interrogation by the Attorney General's Office regarding his alleged links to property businessman Tan Kian. The investigation is part of a larger probe into corruption and money laundering related to the PT ASABRI and PT Jiwasraya cases.

Six Nights Battling Meranti Peatlands: Police Persist Amidst Thick Smoke

The Meranti Islands Police Chief is leading frontline efforts to combat ongoing forest and land fires in the Gemala Sari village. Despite the challenges of deep peatlands and unpredictable winds, emergency teams are working around the clock to prevent further spread across the 85-hectare affected area.

73 Civilians Victim of Houthi Attacks in Southern Saudi Arabia

At least 73 civilians, including women and children, have been injured following Houthi attacks on several cities and economic infrastructure in southern Saudi Arabia. The Saudi-led military coalition has vowed to take all necessary operational steps to protect civilians and neutralise threats following this dangerous escalation.

Indonesia prepares mass bank accounts to boost financial inclusion

Under the direction of President Prabowo Subianto, state-owned lenders BRI and BSI are developing digital applications to facilitate mass bank account creation using National Identity Numbers. The initiative aims to integrate with civil registration data to ensure every citizen possesses an active account, which will also serve as a streamlined channel for distributing government social assistance.

Rukun Raharja (RAJA) Completes Acquisition of Shares in PT Layar Nusantara Gas

PT Rukun Raharja Tbk (RAJA) has finalised the acquisition of a 5% stake in PT Layar Nusantara Gas (PT LNG) via its subsidiary, PT Raharja Gas Kasuri. This strategic move aims to strengthen the group's position within the LNG value chain and support the development of Indonesia's first Floating Liquefied Natural Gas (FLNG) infrastructure.

Strengthening Expansion, BAIC Opens 18th Dealer on Jalan Soekarno Hatta, Bandung City

Automotive distributor JHL Auto has officially opened BAIC's 18th dealership in Indonesia, located on Jalan Soekarno Hatta, Bandung. This strategic expansion aims to tap into the significant automotive market potential in West Java and serves as a precursor to further expansion plans in Surabaya next year.

Semarang City Government Involves MSMEs and Tourism Operators to Welcome National MTQ

The Semarang City Government is integrating local MSMEs, artists, and tourism operators into the upcoming 31st National Musabaqah Tilawatil Qur’an (MTQ) in 2026. The initiative aims to boost the local economy by showcasing culinary delights, creative industries, and cultural heritage to national delegates.

Soekarno-Hatta Airport Resumes Operations, Runway and Apron Cleared of Volcanic Dust

Soekarno-Hatta International Airport has resumed full operations following the impact of volcanic ash from Mount Anak Krakatau. Authorities have implemented rigorous cleaning procedures for runways, taxiways, and aprons to ensure flight safety.

Bad News from Japan: Foreign Exchange Reserves Drop to Deepest Decline Since 2000

Japan's foreign exchange reserves have experienced their sharpest decline since data collection began in 2000, falling by 6.18% in August. The drop is attributed to currency interventions aimed at supporting the yen and fluctuations in government bond values.

AKRA: Company performance unaffected by oil price fluctuations and exchange rates

PT AKR Corporindo Tbk has announced that its performance remains resilient against global oil price volatility and Rupiah exchange rate fluctuations due to its pass-through pricing system. The company plans to focus on monetising the Java Integrated Industrial and Port Estate (JIIPE) and expanding its energy and utility services.

Ministry of Transmigration and Unhas Assist Fakfak Residents in Processing Fish into Food Products

The Ministry of Transmigration, in collaboration with Hasanuddin University's Patriot Expedition Team, is providing training to women in Fakfak, West Papua, to process underutilised 'sibula' fish into value-added products. The initiative aims to foster economic independence through improved processing, packaging, and hygienic handling techniques.

Indonesia's economy ready to move toward 6% growth : Minister

Finance Minister Purbaya has expressed optimism that Indonesia's economic growth could approach 6 per cent in the third quarter of this year. He emphasised the importance of shaping positive public and investor expectations to prevent economic downturns and drive the private sector as an engine of growth.

Giuseppe Garibaldi Currently in the Arabian Sea, Expected to Arrive in Indonesia on 17 September

The Italian aircraft carrier Giuseppe Garibaldi is currently navigating the Arabian Sea en route to Indonesia. Upon arrival, the vessel will be renamed KRI Gajah Mada and officially commissioned under the Indonesian flag in a ceremony expected to be attended by President Prabowo Subianto.

KSP Applauds North Sumatra Immigration for Establishing Assisted Villages and Pimpasa to Strengthen Oversight

The Presidential Staff Office (KSP) has commended the North Sumatra Regional Office of the Directorate General of Immigration for launching the Immigration Assisted Village and Immigration Officers for Village Development (Pimpasa) programmes. These initiatives aim to enhance regional immigration oversight and strengthen early detection mechanisms to combat human trafficking.

Doctor in Denpasar Named Suspect in Case of Concealing Child's Origins

A doctor and her mother in Denpasar, Bali, have been named suspects in an investigation regarding the alleged concealment of a child's true origins. The case was reported by the doctor's husband, who claims his name was omitted from hospital administrative procedures.

Saudi Arabia Bans 30 Types of Snacks in Schools, Including Iced Tea and Crisps

The Saudi Arabian Ministry of Education has implemented a ban on 30 types of food and drink items in school canteens to promote healthier eating habits. The new regulations target high-sugar and processed foods, such as soft drinks, energy drinks, and certain processed meats, to ensure students have access to balanced nutrition.

Clean Air Day: Jakarta Needs Stronger Regulations to Tackle Air Pollution

A member of the Jakarta Regional House of Representatives has called for the allocation of five per cent of the regional budget to combat the capital's persistent air pollution. The proposal emphasises the urgent need to update outdated 2005 regulations to better address modern urban mobility and environmental challenges.

BKPM Opens Foreign Investment Opportunities to Expand EV Charging Stations

The Indonesian Investment Ministry (BKPM) is easing regulations for foreign direct investment to expand the network of Public Electric Vehicle Charging Stations (SPKLU). The move aims to address the current shortage of charging infrastructure as the nation transitions towards a low-carbon economy.

Economic growth must be accompanied by higher productivity : Bappenas

The National Development Planning Agency (Bappenas) has emphasised that Indonesia must prioritise productivity, innovation, and human capital to achieve its Golden Vision 2045. The agency highlighted the need for evidence-based policymaking to navigate global challenges such as geopolitical tensions and the energy transition while avoiding the middle-income trap.

Jakarta Free from Volcanic Ash Exposure, Students to Return to Schools on 9 September

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has announced that distance learning will end and schools will return to normal operations following a decrease in volcanic ash from Mount Anak Krakatau. The decision follows the restoration of normal flight operations at major airports and the implementation of weather modification efforts to mitigate ash impact.

Australia Announces Bill to Allow Opt-Out of Social Media Content Algorithms

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has introduced a bill that would allow users to opt out of algorithm-based content recommendations on social media. The proposed legislation also aims to protect minors from harmful content, with significant fines for platforms that fail to comply.

Hundreds of Students Suspected of Food Poisoning; SMAN 1 Tunjungan Blora Students Traumatised by Free Nutritious Meal Consumption

Approximately 137 students and a teacher at SMAN 1 Tunjungan, Blora, are suspected of suffering food poisoning after consuming the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. The incident has left many students traumatised, with several requiring hospitalisation due to symptoms of diarrhoea and dizziness.

Five Central Papua Police Officers Deployed to Investigate Fatal Paniai Fire

The Central Papua Regional Police have deployed five officers to investigate a devastating fire at Bopauda Market in Paniai, which claimed the lives of 11 people. The investigation aims to determine the cause of the blaze that destroyed 49 buildings and left 148 residents homeless.

32 Primary School Students in Bantul Absent Following Free Nutritious Meal Poisoning, 2 Still Hospitalised

Dozens of students and teachers at SDN 1 Sumberagung in Bantul are absent following a suspected mass poisoning linked to the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. The school has officially issued a statement rejecting the programme temporarily to prevent further incidents due to trauma and health concerns.

Education Office Responds to Student Allegedly Suffering Memory Loss Following Free Nutritious Meal Poisoning in Karo

A 16-year-old student in Karo, North Sumatra, is reportedly suffering from memory loss following suspected food poisoning from the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. The North Sumatra Education Office has expressed deep concern and is coordinating with the school to support the student's recovery and eventual return to studies.

The Forgotten Forest Fires of South Papua

Fires have burned for over a month along a road built to support the mega food estate project in Merauke, South Papua, turning the night sky red in the villages of Wanam and Wogekel. Residents suspect the blazes, which spread to standing trees near Kilometer 55, were started from land-clearing debris left by the 135-kilometer road project initiated by then-Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto in early 2024.

Boosting Performance: Perta Arun Gas Relies on GUCD and LNG Hub Businesses

PT Perta Arun Gas (PAG) is looking to expand its revenue streams through Gassing Up and Cooling Down (GUCD) services and the development of an LNG Hub. The company aims to leverage its existing infrastructure to provide specialised cooling services for LNG tankers and tank rental options for partners.

Anyer Hotel Business Impacted by Krakatau Eruption, Entrepreneurs Share Their Stories

Increased volcanic activity from Anak Krakatau has led to a 30% drop in hotel bookings in the Anyer and Carita coastal areas due to cancellations. While entrepreneurs remain wary of potential tsunami risks, they hope the current eruptive activity remains limited to mountain formation without causing large-scale disasters.

Soekarno-Hatta Airport Serves 324 Flights After Operations Return to Normal

PT Angkasa Pura Indonesia (InJourney Airports) served 324 flights at Soekarno-Hatta Airport by Tuesday afternoon after operations resumed following closure due to volcanic ash from the Mount Anak Krakatau eruption. All routes, including to Medan and Aceh, have been declared safe, with total aircraft movements projected to reach 896 flights and around 113,000 passengers for the day.

Preparing for the World of Work, UBSI Student Undertakes Internship at the Ministry of Transport

Aidil Koto, a seventh-semester Information Systems student at Universitas Bina Sarana Informatika (UBSI), is undertaking an internship at the Ministry of Transport of the Republic of Indonesia, placed in the Planning Bureau. The placement was facilitated by the BSI Career Center, which bridges students with professional opportunities in companies and government institutions.

Thailand reveals 80-hectare online scam complex on the border

Thai military officials have led international observers to a massive 80-hectare fraudulent network complex near the Cambodian border. The site contains hundreds of buildings used for sophisticated international scams targeting victims in countries including Indonesia, China, and Australia.

DPR Backs Prabowo's Plan to Merge BMKG and the Geological Agency

Lasarus, Chairman of Commission V of the Indonesian House of Representatives, has backed President Prabowo Subianto's proposal to integrate the Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) with the Geological Agency. He argued the merger would improve coordination and effectiveness in disaster management, whilst urging that personnel and administrative matters be resolved first.

Indonesia Names 138 Suspects in Wildfires, Probes 8 Corporations

Indonesia's National Police have named 138 suspects in forest and land fire cases, comprising 119 for intentional burning and 19 for negligence, with the figure potentially rising as investigations continue. Authorities are also probing eight companies and coordinating with the Forestry and Environment ministries, having frozen 18 business permits and revoked 42 others. The enforcement drive comes amid heightened fire risks from a prolonged El Niño dry season.

Disasters Must Not Sever the State

An editorial piece arguing that the Indonesian government must reform administrative processes to prevent 'administrative burdens' during natural disasters. It calls for dual service standards and a unified crisis information architecture to ensure public services remain resilient when infrastructure is compromised.

OKU Timur Police Construct Reservoirs to Anticipate Forest and Land Fires

The OKU Timur Police in South Sumatra are constructing several reservoirs and additional water channels to combat the risk of forest and land fires during the dry season. This initiative, supported by local communities and private enterprises, aims to bolster water supplies for fire prevention and emergency response.

On Par with Singapore, Indonesia Now Has an Asian LNG Hub Centre

PT Perta Arun Gas (PAG), a subsidiary of Indonesia's Pertamina Group, says its LNG hub operations are now on par with Singapore's, making it one of the largest and busiest LNG hubs in Asia. The company recorded revenues of US$105 million and a net profit of US$25.1 million in 2025, serving clients including TotalEnergies Gas & Power Asia and Japan's Kyushu.

RATU EGM Approves Private Placement of 271.51 Million Shares

Shareholders of PT Raharja Energi Cepu Tbk (RATU) have approved a private placement of up to 271,505,380 new shares, or 10% of paid-up capital, at an extraordinary general meeting on Tuesday. The proceeds will fund working capital and business expansion of the company and its group, with a maximum dilution of 9.09% for existing shareholders and no change of control.

Baznas: No Zakat Funds Used in Publication of 'Islam Ala Prabowo' Book

The National Zakat Agency (Baznas) has confirmed that no zakat, infak or sedekah funds were used in producing or publishing the book 'Islam Ala Prabowo'. Its chairman said Baznas's involvement in the 2025 launch was limited to institutional cooperation on religious outreach literacy, not practical politics.

BMKG Responds to Proposal to Avoid Using 'Computer Language' in Public Information

The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has responded to suggestions from Parliament to simplify disaster-related communications. While agreeing with the need for more accessible language, BMKG officials noted that transitioning from technical jargon to public-friendly terms, including local dialects, must be done gradually.

Indonesia, Timor Leste deepen border research, language partnership

Nusa Cendana University (Undana) in Kupang has agreed with the Timor-Leste Consulate to strengthen research cooperation on border issues, including joint studies on watershed environments and potential new border crossings. The partnership also covers a proposed Portuguese language centre in Kupang, student exchanges, postgraduate opportunities for Timorese students, and regular international scientific forums, with outcomes to be presented to relevant ministries for follow-up.

BMKG Ready to Implement President's Directive to Merge with Geological Agency

The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has expressed its readiness to follow President Prabowo Subianto's plan to merge with the Geological Agency. The proposed integration aims to enhance public service effectiveness and strengthen disaster mitigation efforts across Indonesia.

Three Japanese Helicopters to Arrive in West Kalimantan Tomorrow to Assist in Forest Fire Suppression

The Japanese government is sending three CH-47 Chinook helicopters to assist Indonesia in combating forest and land fires. The aircraft, intended for water bombing operations, are expected to arrive at Kijing Port as part of a strategic humanitarian and defence cooperation agreement.

One Year as Finance Minister, Purbaya Reveals His Weight Dropped 14 Kg

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has revealed he lost up to 14 kilograms during his first year managing the state treasury, using his weight loss as a light-hearted illustration of the job's demands. He said the Indonesian economy has finally broken out of the so-called '5 percent growth curse', with growth reaching 5.61 percent in the first quarter of 2026, though momentum eased in the second quarter partly due to global conflicts.

Purbaya states Whoosh debt instalments are approximately Rp1 trillion per year

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has revealed that the debt for the Jakarta-Bandung High-Speed Railway (Whoosh) has been restructured with an 80-year tenor. The annual repayment is estimated at around Rp1 trillion, a burden the Ministry of Finance deems manageable through special purpose vehicles.

Economist: Data transparency is vital for price formation in mineral exchange

An economist from CORE Indonesia has emphasised the need for data transparency and high liquidity to prevent market manipulation in the proposed Mineral and Strategic Commodity Exchange (BMKS). The expert warns that establishing a fair price discovery mechanism is essential for Indonesia to transition from a price taker to a price maker in the global market.

BKPM States Indonesia is Implementing Green Investment Strategy

The Ministry of Investment and Downstreaming/BKPM has confirmed that Indonesia is actively pursuing a green investment strategy focused on ESG principles. This initiative aims to accelerate the green economy transition, including energy transition and circular economy implementation, to support the national target of 8 per cent economic growth.

Ministry of Social Affairs opens public participation for social assistance data updates

The Indonesian Ministry of Social Affairs is inviting public involvement to update social assistance (bansos) recipient data to ensure accuracy. The initiative aims to identify changes in socio-economic status and remove eligible individuals who are no longer in need of aid.

BoP Urges Israel to Fulfill Gaza Commitments for Peace Roadmap

Nickolay Mladenov, the Board of Peace High Representative for Gaza, has called on Israel to honour its commitments regarding the Gaza peace roadmap to ensure political progress. The proposal includes troop withdrawals and the disarmament of Hamas in exchange for the reconstruction of the Palestinian enclave.

TNI, US Army sharpen jungle combat skills in Super Garuda Shield 2026

Indonesia and the United States, alongside forces from 19 other countries, are conducting the Super Garuda Shield 2026 joint military exercise across multiple Indonesian locations from 31 August to 11 September. The drill, involving 4,743 personnel and 12 tactical training modules, aims to test operational readiness, strengthen defence diplomacy and improve responses to regional security challenges.

Several Names Mentioned in Hajj Quota Corruption Trial

The corruption trial involving former Indonesian Minister of Religious Affairs Yaqut Cholil Qoumas has revealed several names allegedly linked to the misappropriation of Hajj quotas. Prosecutors presented records of 'floating' names, including former Commission VIII Vice Chairman Ace Hasan Syadzily, amidst allegations of state losses totalling approximately Rp622 billion.

Ace Hasan Denies Involvement After Name Appears in Hajj Quota Corruption Trial

Former Deputy Chairman of Commission VIII of the DPR, Ace Hasan Syadzily, has denied allegations of seeking special Hajj quotas after his name was mentioned during a corruption trial. The trial involves the alleged misappropriation of additional Hajj quotas for 2023-2024, which is estimated to have caused state losses of approximately Rp622 billion.

Ace Hasan Syadzily's Name Mentioned in Hajj Quota Corruption Trial

The name of former Deputy Chairman of Commission VIII of the DPR, Ace Hasan Syadzily, surfaced during the trial regarding the 2023-202 Or 2024 additional Hajj quota corruption case. While his name appeared in registration records, Ace Hasan has denied requesting any special quota, asserting that all processed aspirations were merely forwarded to the Ministry of Religious Affairs' system.

Minister Yandri Promotes Orange Downstreaming in Malang Regency

The Minister of Villages and Regional Development, Yandri Susanto, is advocating for the downstream processing of orange harvests in Malang Regency to increase market value. The initiative aims to prevent price drops during peak harvest seasons by connecting farmers directly to industrial buyers.

ASDP President Director states Ketapang-Gilimanuk queues have successfully cleared

The President Director of PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry has confirmed that vehicle queues at the Ketapang-Gilimanuk crossing have largely dissipated following strategic operational adjustments. To maintain smooth mobility, the company is deploying additional vessels and optimising service patterns to manage traffic flow effectively.

BMKG Confirms Anak Krakatau Ash Cloud Not Heading Towards Jakarta

The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has confirmed that volcanic ash from the eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau is not currently drifting towards Jakarta. BMKG Deputy for Science and Technology Guswanto explained that ash at altitudes of 12,000 to 15,000 feet had moved eastwards, disrupting several airports, whilst winds from Australia towards Asia are expected to push further emissions westwards.

220 Million Passports of World Citizens Leaked Online — Are You Included?

A database linked to Vietnam's Advance Passenger Information System (APIS), containing over 220 million passenger and crew records spanning January 2017 to April 2026, was found exposed online due to security gaps. Cybersecurity firm Kinryū Labs discovered the unprotected Elasticsearch cluster in June and reported it to Vietnamese authorities, with access shut down by 8 June. It remains unclear whether the data was downloaded or misused before the breach was sealed.

Defence Ministry Secretary-General: Three Japanese Chinook Helicopters to Support Waterbombing Operations

The Japanese government is deploying three CH-47 Chinook helicopters and around 180 Japan Ground Self-Defense Force personnel to support Indonesia's efforts to combat forest and land fires in Kalimantan. According to Defence Ministry Secretary-General Lieutenant General Tri Budi Utomo, the aircraft will be transported aboard the JS Kunisaki and are expected to begin waterbombing operations between 12 and 19 September 2026, subject to readiness and field conditions.

List of Chinese Aluminium Projects in Indonesia, Getting a 'Head Start' Before Rusal

Russian aluminium giant Rusal plans a major investment in Indonesian smelters, but Chinese firms have already established a strong head start in the country's aluminium downstream industry. Companies including Tsingshan, Shandong Weiqiao, Nanshan Group and East Hope Group are operating or planning smelters with combined potential capacity of several million tonnes per year. The intensifying competition could strengthen Indonesia's position as an integrated aluminium production base.

Nickel Industries scholarship supports Sulawesi students at UPN

Nickel Industries, through its Yayasan Wallacea Hijau Lestari foundation, has awarded fully funded scholarships to five students from Sulawesi at UPN Veteran Yogyakarta, covering tuition, accommodation and living expenses from first semester through graduation starting in the 2026/2027 academic year. The programme forms part of the company's broader social investment in education and community empowerment, aiming to develop technical and leadership capabilities for Indonesia's mining industry workforce.

West Jakarta Police Deploy Water Cannons to Spray Protocol Roads

The West Jakarta Metropolitan Police have deployed armoured water cannons to spray major roads in an effort to mitigate the impact of volcanic ash from Mount Anak Krakatau. This initiative aims to prevent dust and ash from becoming airborne and causing respiratory issues for commuters.

Kebon Ayu Village Office Sealed for Two Weeks, Residents Confused Over Administrative Services

The Kebon Ayu village office in West Lombok, NTB, has been sealed for two weeks due to a land ownership dispute, disrupting public administrative services for residents. A member of the West Lombok regional parliament has urged the district government to intervene and mediate the dispute to restore services.

Garuda Indonesia ensures passengers affected by cancellations in Aceh have been assisted

Garuda Indonesia has successfully managed all 640 passengers affected by flight cancellations on the Banda Aceh-Jakarta route following the closure of Soekarno-Hatta International Airport. The airline provided options for flight rescheduling or full refunds following the disruption caused by the eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau.

To Clean Volcanic Ash from Mount Anak Krakatau, Indramayu Police Deploy Water Cannons

Indramayu Police deployed armoured water cannon vehicles to clear volcanic ash from three major roads following the eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau. The high-pressure spraying, conducted on Monday afternoon, aims to prevent ash from becoming airborne and posing health risks to residents and road users. Authorities also encouraged the public to report any disturbances through the local police call centre and WhatsApp service.

Puan: President's Proposal to Merge Geological Agency with BMKG Needs Careful Study

DPR Speaker Puan Maharani has urged careful review of President Prabowo Subianto's proposal to integrate the Geological Agency with the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG), noting the two bodies have different mandates. She said the House would support the merger and additional disaster mitigation funding if they prove effective and beneficial.

SUN Energy: Demand for Industrial Solar Power Plants Increasing to Improve Cost Efficiency

The demand for solar power plants (PLTS) within the industrial sector has risen significantly over the last few years as companies seek to enhance cost efficiency and energy security. SUN Energy reports that solar integration can reduce operational costs by up to 30 per cent, particularly in the mining and manufacturing sectors.

Purbaya: State-Owned Banks Ready to Collect Tax on Foreign Digital Transactions

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has confirmed that Indonesian banks are ready to automatically collect VAT on foreign digital transactions through the SPP-TDLN system built by PT Jalin Pembayaran Nusantara. The scheme, governed by PMK No. 49/2026, takes effect on 10 September 2026, with four state-owned banks already operating the process. The minister declined to estimate potential revenue, saying he would wait for actual results.

UBSI Bekasi Campus Wave 6 Admissions for 2026 Still Open: Study Programmes and How to Register

Universitas Bina Sarana Informatika (UBSI) Bekasi Campus is accepting new student registrations for Wave 6 of the 2026/2027 academic year until 10 September 2026, the final window for those wishing to begin lectures in September 2026. Seven undergraduate programmes are on offer, spanning informatics, information technology, information systems, accounting, communication studies, visual communication design and management, with the entire registration process conducted digitally.

Deputy Minister of Hajj and Umrah: 14,000 Umrah Pilgrims Affected by Airport Closure

The Indonesian Deputy Minister of Hajj and Umrah has confirmed that approximately 14,000 pilgrims will be rescheduled for their trips without additional costs following the temporary closure of Soekarno-Hatta International Airport. The government is ensuring that travel agencies and airlines fulfil their responsibilities to protect the rights of the affected pilgrims.

Will the Yogyakarta Regional Government Report the AI Hoax Video of Sultan HB X in a Leasing Advert?

Sultan Hamengku Buwono X, Governor of Yogyakarta, has been targeted in a fabricated AI video promoting a financial management service. The regional government says it has no plans to report the hoax to the authorities, instead opting for public education campaigns to warn residents.

Rosan supports the operation of coconut processing industry in Morowali

The Minister of Investment and Downstreaming, Rosan Roeslani, has expressed support for the launch of PT Freenow Food Industry's coconut processing plant in Morowali. The project involves an investment of Rp776 billion and is expected to create 2,900 jobs while boosting the national downstreaming agenda.

Russia Resumes Attacks on Ukraine Following Visit by US Envoys

Russia has launched a fresh wave of drone and missile strikes on Kyiv, interrupting a brief lull during a diplomatic visit by US peace negotiators. The attacks have resulted in fatalities and significant damage to residential buildings and infrastructure across the capital.

SMGR states cement exports to US prove Indonesian cement is accepted by global markets

PT Semen Indonesia Tbk (SIG) has successfully exported cement to the United States for the first time this year, marking a significant milestone for Indonesian manufacturing. The company is leveraging new export facilities in Tuban, East Java, to expand its global market presence and targets a gradual export of 450,000 metric tonnes of special type cement to the US throughout 2026.

Today's Top 3 News: Airports Still Closed After Anak Krakatau Eruption

President Prabowo Subianto has ordered the National Police to pursue legal action against corporations linked to forest and land fires, and has called for a comprehensive disaster mitigation master plan, citing Indonesia's position on the Pacific Ring of Fire. Meanwhile, seven Indonesian airports remain closed following the eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau, disrupting travel for some 170,000 passengers as volcanic ash blanketed Jakarta and surrounding areas.

AHY Deemed Ready to be Presidential Contender, PKB Reminds of Current Position

PKB Vice Chairman Syaiful Huda has responded to claims that Democratic Party Chairman Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY) is signalling a bid for the 2029 Presidential Election. While acknowledging the possibility, Huda reminded that AHY is currently part of the government coalition.

10.69 Million KL of New B50 Fuel Distributed at Petrol Stations

Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources reports that 10.69 million kilolitres of biodiesel-blended fuel have been distributed by early September 2026, with around 90% of petrol stations now stocking B50. The B50 mandate, launched in July 2026, makes Indonesia the first country in the world to blend 50% palm oil into its diesel supply.

Pension Fund Investment in SRBI Surges by 132.76%, Gold ETFs Gaining Interest

Pension fund investments in Bank Indonesia's Rupiah Securities (SRBI) have seen a massive increase of 132.76% as of July 2026. The Financial Services Authority (OJK) notes that while SRBI offers attractive yields, pension fund managers are also exploring gold ETFs as a diversification tool.

Melchias Mekeng Highlights Rising Cost Recovery Amid Declining Oil and Gas Lifting

The Chairman of Commission XII of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Melchias Markus Mekeng, has questioned why national oil and gas production continues to decline despite rising cost recovery expenditures. He has called for greater transparency from SKK Migas regarding the allocation of these funds, which are sourced from the state budget.

Erdogan: Türkiye will continue to develop relations with the SCO

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has reaffirmed Türkiye's commitment to strengthening ties with the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). During a recent meeting, he emphasised the potential for increased trade with SCO member states, noting their significant contribution to global population and economic output.

Pertamina reports 94 per cent of petrol stations have distributed B50

Pertamina Patra Niaga has announced that 94 per cent of its petrol stations across Indonesia are now distributing the B50 biodiesel mandate. While most regions have successfully transitioned, some areas in Maluku and Papua are still processing remaining B40 stocks.

Krakatau Ash Mixes with Jakarta's Pollution, BMKG Urges Residents to Take Precautions

Indonesia's meteorology agency BMKG has analysed the spread of volcanic aerosols and sulphur dioxide following the eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau, finding that coarse volcanic particles mixed with Jakarta's urban pollution in early September 2026. Residents of Jakarta have been urged to keep wearing masks outdoors, as the dry peak of the monsoon season keeps hazardous particles suspended in the air. PM2.5 concentrations rose in both Lampung and Jakarta, reaching the moderate category.

Magetan Civil Registry Office provides e-ID card recording services in schools

The Magetan Regency Civil Registry Office in East Java has launched a mobile service initiative to facilitate e-ID card recording for students in secondary schools. The programme targets students aged 16.5 to 17 years to ensure they possess essential identification for public services.

Soekarno-Hatta Airport handles 324 flights following operational closure

Soekarno-Hatta International Airport has resumed operations, handling 324 flights following a temporary closure caused by volcanic ash from Mount Anak Krakatau. Flight services are gradually returning to normal as all routes, including those to Medan and Aceh, have been declared safe.

Ministry of Social Affairs: 4.33 million new beneficiaries identified following DTSEN data update

The Indonesian Ministry of Social Affairs has reported that 4.33 million new families have been added to the social assistance programme following the second-quarter update of the National Socio-Economic Single Data (DTSEN). This expansion is the result of a continuous data consolidation process led by BPS to ensure more precise distribution of social aid.

Government Opens Registration for Perlinsos Agents, Needs 250,000 People

Chair of the National Economic Council Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan has called on citizens to register as Social Protection (Perlinsos) Agents, with the government needing around 250,000 agents across Java to accelerate digitally based social assistance distribution. The recruitment is part of a national digital transformation drive aimed at ensuring aid reaches those genuinely entitled to it. Luhut stressed that agents will only help residents access the system, with eligibility decisions made automatically via integrated national data.

PAG Optimistic About Pushing LNG Hub Business, Here's Why!

PT Perta Arun Gas (PAG) says its business prospects remain vast, citing its strategic location on the Malacca Strait international shipping route in North Sumatra. The company, operating within the Arun Special Economic Zone with tax holiday benefits, holds the world's largest LNG re-export loading volume at 0.85 million tonnes, or 17.3% of global market share, and plans expansion into an integrated energy hub by 2034.

Elected as PBNU Chairman, Gus Kikin Seen to Bring Collaboration Between Islamic Boarding Schools and the Maritime Sector

Maritime analyst Marcellus Hakeng Jayawibawa has welcomed the election of KH Abdul Hakim Mahfudz (Gus Kikin) as Tanfidziyah Chairman of PBNU for 2026–2031, saying his background as a seafarer and shipping businessman brings fresh impetus to Indonesia's blue economy. He noted that Gus Kikin's blend of pesantren scholarship and modern managerial experience makes him uniquely placed to strengthen the economic self-reliance of the NU community.

Fate of Salaries for 80,000 Red and White Village Co-op Managers: Purbaya Gives Assurance

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has confirmed that the budget for paying some 80,000 managers of the Red and White Village/Neighbourhood Cooperatives (KDMP) has been prepared and approved. The salary scheme will run for two years and will be funded from previously unspent KDMP allocations, avoiding any additional burden on the state budget or widening the deficit. The government has declined to disclose the salary figures, saying the final amounts will follow the programme's actual implementation.

MPR: SIMEP PA must serve as the basis for accelerating child protection reforms

The Deputy Speaker of the MPR, Lestari Moerdijat, has called for the SIMEP PA 3.0 system to act as a catalyst for reforming Indonesia's child protection framework. She emphasised the need for a proactive, data-driven approach to address the high rates of child violence recorded in recent years.

China's Clean Technology Grows Stronger, Exports to ASEAN Reach Rp350 Trillion

Southeast Asia has become China's largest Asian market for clean technology, spending over US$20 billion on batteries, grid equipment, electric vehicles, solar panels and heating systems in 2026, up some 50% year on year. Indonesia is a key driver, with solar PV imports from China surging nearly 149% amid the government's target to build up to 100 GWp of solar capacity within three years.

KP2MI accelerates transformation of migrant worker governance

The Indonesian Ministry of Migrant Worker Protection (KP2MI) is implementing new measures to strengthen the protection of migrant workers from recruitment to repatriation. This includes the establishment of a special task force with the National Police to combat human trafficking and a strategic shift towards promoting high-skilled labour.

The Dangers of Volcanic Ash for Motorcyclists and Tips for Riding Safely

Volcanic ash blanketing several regions poses a serious hazard to road users, particularly motorcyclists, by reducing visibility and drastically lowering tyre grip. Road safety practitioner Jusri Pulubuhu of Jakarta Defensive Driving Consulting advises riders to postpone journeys when ash layers thicken, or to follow defensive riding principles and protective measures if travel is unavoidable.

After the Earthquake, Lazismu Distributes 235 School Kit Packages for Students of SDK Dampek

Muhammadiyah's charity arm Lazismu has distributed 235 school kit packages to pupils at a Catholic primary school in Dampek, East Manggarai, East Nusa Tenggara, following the earthquake that struck the coastal area on 15 August. Ten of the school's 13 classrooms were severely damaged, and most pupils' learning materials were destroyed by the quake and seawater flooding.

Satellite Monitoring Shows Mount Anak Krakatau Ash Cloud Moving Away from Indonesian Territory

The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) reports that volcanic ash from Mount Anak Krakatau is drifting south-south-west towards the Indian Ocean, away from Indonesia. Airports have resumed operations, with paper tests showing no ash contamination, whilst BMKG continues real-time monitoring and weather modification operations with BNPB and the Ministry of Transport to clear the atmosphere. Tsunami monitoring via 20 gauges has detected no anomalous wave activity, keeping the tsunami risk low.

Six NTB coal plants to be converted into solar power plants

PLN has presented a plan to convert six small-scale coal-fired power plants in West Nusa Tenggara into solar facilities as part of the province's clean energy transition. The utility has also identified 1.73 gigawatts of renewable energy potential, mainly solar and wind, across Lombok and Sumbawa, though land availability remains the key challenge and no implementation timetable has been set.

Salaries of Ministers and MPs to Rise by Up to 9% in October, Reaching Rp 43.2 Billion

Singapore's Prime Minister Lawrence Wong announced that political officeholders' salaries will rise by up to 9%, effective 15 October, the first adjustment since 2011. The Prime Minister's salary is proposed to increase from S$2.2 million to S$3.6 million (Rp 43.2 billion) per year, with similar rises for deputy ministers, ministers across four grades, parliamentary officials and MPs.

Pertamina Requests Uniform FAME Procurement Tariffs

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga has urged the Indonesian government to standardise procurement tariffs for Fatty Acid Methyl Ester (FAME) to support the B50 biodiesel programme. The company argues that a uniform pricing structure is necessary to account for varying logistics costs across the archipelago and ensure fair competition.

Nepali Citizens Commemorate One Year Since Protests Overthrew Government

Protesters in Nepal gathered at the burnt parliament building to mark the anniversary of the anti-corruption demonstrations that led to the collapse of the previous administration. The movement, which resulted in significant loss of life, eventually paved the way for the appointment of Prime Minister Balendra Shah.

Jember-Jakarta flights at Notohadinegoro Airport operating normally

Flight operations between Jember and Jakarta have returned to normal at Notohadinegoro Airport following recent volcanic activity. Safety tests have confirmed that volcanic ash levels are within safe limits for aviation.

Ways to Reduce Exposure to Volcanic Ash

Health experts have issued guidance on protecting residents from the health risks posed by volcanic ash following the eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau. The advice focuses on respiratory protection and proper cleaning techniques to prevent ash from becoming airborne in residential areas.

Minister Yusril Dislikes the Book Title 'Islam ala Prabowo'

Coordinating Minister for Law, Human Rights, Immigration and Corrections Yusril Ihza Mahendra has denied being a writer of the book 'Islam ala Prabowo', saying his involvement was limited to being interviewed as a source. Whilst he found no fundamental problems with the book's substance, he criticised its title, suggesting 'Prabowo and Islam' would be less open to misinterpretation. The book, over 330 pages long, has drawn criticism for appearing to present a new brand of Islamic teaching according to President Prabowo.

House of Representatives Pushes for Integrated Handling of Forest Fires and Disasters in Indonesia

The DPR leadership has called for forest and land fires and national disaster management to be handled in an integrated manner across ministries and agencies, citing Indonesia's exposure to the Ring of Fire. Speaker Puan Maharani urged the government to restore a leading coordinating sector akin to BNPB, while the House also flagged probes into post-fire land conversion in West Kalimantan and a proposed merger of the geological and meteorological agencies.

Volcanic Activity Declines, Residents Near Mount Anak Krakatau Advised to Remain Vigilant

Although the continuous 25-hour eruption phase of Mount Anak Krakatau has ended, communities living around the volcano, including those on Sebesi Island some 20 kilometres away, are being urged to remain alert and disregard unverified information on social media. A senior expert at the government's Communication Agency (Bakom) said local activity, including crossings to Canti Harbour, has continued normally following the 4 September eruption.

Flights at Soekarno-Hatta Airport Still Facing Delays and Cancellations, Here Are the Causes

Operational activities at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport have resumed, yet many flights continue to face delays and cancellations. The airport management attributes these disruptions to the ongoing process of reorganising aircraft rotations and crew readiness.

Canada Takes Revenge on Trump: All US Products Hit with 15-50% Tariffs

Canada has imposed retaliatory tariffs of 15% to 50% on hundreds of US products worth US$27.6 billion, after trade negotiations between the two countries collapsed in August. The move doubles tariffs on US steel, aluminium and iron to 50%, whilst Ottawa has also announced a US$7.5 billion support package for affected businesses and workers.

After DPR Approval, Ex-KRI Ki Hajar Dewantara-364 to Be Auctioned

The Defence Ministry has outlined the auction process for the decommissioned warship KRI Ki Hajar Dewantara-364 following parliamentary approval. The vessel, no longer seaworthy and stripped of its weaponry in 2018, will be sold via the state asset auction office, with proceeds going to the state treasury.

Government Boosts Investment and Implementation of Renewable Energy in 2026

The Indonesian government is accelerating the transition to cleaner energy by stepping up new, renewable energy and energy conservation (EBTKE) development in 2026, encompassing solar power, electric vehicles, geothermal and bioenergy. Director General Eniya Listiani Dewi noted that investment and implementation figures have risen overall, despite quarterly fluctuations. Awards were presented at the EBTKE 2026 Appreciation event to companies, universities and individuals, including three women recognised for their contributions to clean energy.

Selection Committee Invites Public Participation in KND Member Selection

The Selection Committee for the National Disability Commission (KND) for the 2026–2031 period is calling for public input regarding shortlisted candidates. The committee aims to enhance transparency by publishing candidate names on social media and official websites for public scrutiny.

Bappenas: Economic Growth Must Be Accompanied by Productivity Increases

The Deputy Minister of National Development Planning (Bappenas) has emphasised that Indonesia's economic growth must focus on strengthening productive capacity rather than just numerical targets. This strategy is essential to navigate global challenges such as geopolitical tensions, technological shifts, and climate change while achieving the Vision 2045 goals.

Case File of Suspect in Student Burning in Central Lombok Declared Complete

The case file of a juvenile suspect, MR, in the burning of three Islamic boarding school students at Pondok Pesantren Rosudatussaulatiyah Al Ibrahimy in Central Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara, has been declared complete (P21) and will proceed to trial. The file of the second suspect, boarding school head Ahmad Muzakki Rahmatullah, remains incomplete pending further investigation. The incident in December 2025 killed one student and injured two others.

Mercedes-Benz Patents Floating Vehicle Technology

Mercedes-Benz has filed a patent for a new technology that allows off-road vehicles to float and navigate water surfaces using their wheels as propulsion. The system utilises sensors and inflatable devices to manage river crossings without the need for traditional propellers.

AHY Tells Democrat Cadres: Prepare Ourselves, the Election Comes in Early 2029

Democratic Party Chairman Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY) has urged party cadres to begin preparing immediately for the 2029 general election, warning that time will pass quickly. Speaking at a national technical guidance event for the party's regional legislators in Jakarta, he also highlighted that the majority of voters in 2029 will be millennials and Generation Z. He called on cadres to learn to communicate with young voters and understand their aspirations from now on.

Observer: Ancol Reclamation Must Comply with Spatial Planning and Urgently Include Integrated Public LRT Access

Urban planning observer Yayat Supriatna of Trisakti University supports the planned 65-hectare expansion of the Ancol reclamation area, provided its spatial planning legality is settled and it aligns with Jakarta's 2024 Spatial Plan. He also urged the DKI provincial government to accelerate the Kelapa Gading–Ancol LRT route, extended to PIK, to prevent severe congestion and enable car-free access to the area.

South Korea highlights North Korean border reinforcement, hopes for negotiations

South Korean Defence Minister Ahn Gyu-back has expressed concern over North Korea's unprecedented measures to fortify the border and sever ties. Seoul is calling for renewed dialogue and hopes that its recent peace-oriented initiatives will encourage Pyongyang to return to the negotiating table.

Chinese National Deported from Bali for Working Illegally as Project Supervisor

A 29-year-old Chinese national, identified as JZ, has been deported from Bali for working illegally as a project supervisor in breach of his Visa on Arrival. The Denpasar Class I Immigration Office carried out the deportation via I Gusti Ngurah Rai Airport, citing Article 75(1) of Law No. 6 of 2011 on Immigration.

Accident Risk in Rain Rises by 31 Percent: The Importance of Visibility and Vehicle Condition

An automotive observer from Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB) has warned that heavy rain can increase traffic accident risk by more than 31 percent, primarily due to reduced visibility. Officials from the Ministry of Transport and industry players stress that road safety depends on roadworthy vehicles, driver competence and supportive infrastructure working together.

Ministry of Law, Human Rights, Immigration and Correctional Services Pioneers Public Information Transparency

The newly established Ministry of Law, Human Rights, Immigration and Correctional Services has launched a dedicated website and PPID application to enhance public information accessibility. This digital initiative aims to bridge the gap between the government and the public by providing faster, more accurate, and more transparent information regarding state programmes.

Five Indonesian airports resume operations as volcanic ash clears

AirNav Indonesia has issued NOTAMs allowing five airports — Radin Inten II, Muhammad Taufiq Kiemas, Budiarto, Pondok Cabe and Salakanagara — to resume flights after conditions improved following Mount Anak Krakatau's eruption. The airports remain under continuous monitoring as volcanic ash clouds are still detected in the flight area, with clearance valid until 11:59 p.m. WIB on Tuesday.

Universitas Ekuitas Indonesia Transforms to Produce Graduates with Knowledge and Skills

Universitas Ekuitas Indonesia, a private university owned by Bank BJB, is transforming from a degree-awarding institution into one producing graduates with both academic knowledge and practical work skills. Rector Prof R Arief Helmi said the university offers talent-scouting career opportunities for its best graduates at Bank BJB, and student enrolment continues to rise year on year.

Krakatau Ash Plume Reaching 7,000 Feet Drifts Towards Banten, Says BMKG

The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has reported that volcanic ash from Mount Anak Krakatau, reaching heights of up to 7,000 feet (2.1 km), is drifting south and north-west, affecting parts of south-west Banten, southern Lampung and the Indian Ocean. BMKG warned of health impacts such as eye and skin irritation and respiratory problems, as well as reduced visibility and slippery roads, and urged residents to remain vigilant but not panic and to follow official guidance.

House Commission VII and TikTok Meet to Resolve Frozen MSME Funds Issue

Indonesia's House Commission VII is holding discussions with representatives from TikTok and Tokopedia to address the freezing of funds belonging to MSME users on TikTok Shop. The parliamentary committee is demanding transparency and accountability from the platform regarding the withheld billions of rupiah in business balances.

Semen Indonesia: Performance growth continues following transformation

PT Semen Indonesia Tbk (SIG) has reported sustained performance growth through the first half of 2026, driven by a business transformation initiated in July 2025. The state-owned enterprise saw a significant surge in net profit and a steady increase in sales volume, supported by robust domestic market demand.

Sidoarjo Investment Reaches Rp 7.7 Trillion as of Second Quarter 2026

Investment realisation in Sidoarjo Regency has reached Rp 7.7 trillion, representing 49.51 per cent of the annual target. Key contributors include the housing, industrial estate, and office sectors, alongside significant growth in local labour absorption.

Helicopter Carrying Five People Crashes in Sarawak, Suspected of Transporting Medical Team

A BO-105 helicopter believed to be carrying five people, including medical personnel, crashed near the Long Lellang STOLport in the remote Marudi area of Sarawak, Malaysia. The aircraft was thought to be part of the Flying Doctor Service, which provides healthcare to remote communities in Sarawak's interior. No official confirmation has yet been given regarding the condition or identities of those on board, and an investigation into the cause is pending.

North Jakarta mitigates volcanic ash impact with water mist and mask distribution

The North Jakarta City Government has deployed joint task forces to spray water mist on major roads to mitigate the impact of volcanic ash from Mount Anak Krakatau. In addition to road spraying, authorities are distributing masks to the public to prevent respiratory issues caused by ash exposure.

Forest Fires Approach Orangutan Habitat in West Kotawaringin, Water Bombing Required

Forest and land fires in West Kotawaringin, Central Kalimantan, are threatening the Danau Masoraian conservation area, a known orangutan habitat. The Regent of West Kotawaringin has requested urgent aerial water bombing assistance as the fire reaches inaccessible peatland areas.

Prosecutors Question Former Subordinate of Yaqut Regarding 'Plotting' of Additional Hajj Quota

During the corruption trial regarding the 2023-2024 Hajj quota, a witness testified that specific quota allocations were provided by a Ministry of Religious Affairs official. The prosecution is investigating the origins of these figures, which allegedly involve high-profile figures and members of parliament.

ADBI states education and technology are key to becoming a developed nation

The CEO of the Asian Development Bank Institute, Bambang Brodjonegoro, emphasises that consistent commitment to education, technology, and good governance is essential for Asian nations to achieve developed status. He highlights that long-term institutional development and human capital investment are more critical than single-policy reforms.

Three Deaths in August Linked to Sound Horeg, East Java Deputy Governor Speaks Out

East Java Deputy Governor Emil Dardak has responded to three deaths in August 2026 allegedly linked to the 'sound horeg' phenomenon, saying regulations limiting loudspeaker use already exist but enforcement remains weak. He has proposed that the municipal police (Satpol PP) assist in enforcing a joint circular signed by the Governor, the regional military commander and the chief of police, and stressed that any legal violations resulting in loss of life must be prosecuted.

120 Fuel Terminals Already Distributing Indonesia's New B50 Fuel

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga has distributed B50 biosolar fuel at 120 of its 121 fuel terminals, following the government's mandate for a 50% biodiesel blend. Only the Sintang terminal remains outstanding due to drought conditions shrinking river levels, whilst public response on both quality and quantity has been positive.

Wonokerto SPPG in Sleman Suspended After Dozens of Primary to Vocational Students Suffer MBG Food Poisoning

The Wonokerto Nutrition Service Delivery Unit (SPPG) in Turi, Sleman, has been temporarily suspended after dozens of students from primary, junior and vocational schools showed poisoning symptoms after eating meals from the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. The National Nutrition Agency is investigating the incident, with food samples including fried beef balls, edamame and watermelon sent for laboratory testing. Most of those affected have recovered, though one patient remains hospitalised.

Ancol Plans Echoing the 1970s: Analyst Says Uphold Norms and Focus on Driving a Special Business Zone

The planned reclamation-based expansion of Ancol has received a positive signal, with investors reportedly ready by the end of the year to take part in developing the new area. Urban planning analyst Yayat Supriyatna argues Jakarta should not force the introduction of physical casinos in pursuit of regional revenue, but instead focus on a special economic zone such as a tax-free trading area or a modern financial and business centre.

NasDem Legislator Eva Stevany Rataba on Being Listed in Decile 4: I Am Myself Puzzled

NasDem MP Eva Stevany Rataba has denied ever receiving social assistance after her name appeared in decile 4 of the National Socio-Economic Single Data (DTSEN) for North Toraja, South Sulawesi. She has queried the Central Statistics Agency and visited the local social affairs office to demand the data be corrected.

Chancellor Merz Shaken, AfD Election Results 'Changing All of Germany'

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has expressed deep concern following the AfD's significant electoral gains in Saxony-Anhalt, warning of profound implications for Germany's international standing. The rise of parties challenging the rule of law poses a direct threat to the stability of the current administration and its commitment to NATO and the EU.

North Sumatra Governor Targets Rabies-Free Status for Pets

North Sumatra Governor Muhammad Bobby Afif Nasution has set a target to vaccinate 80 per cent of pets across the province to eliminate rabies. The initiative focuses on protecting both locals and tourists, particularly in key tourism areas, to safeguard the region's reputation.

Anak Krakatau Ash Moving Away from Lampung, Here is the Spread Direction

Volcanic ash from Mount Anak Krakatau is currently moving away from the Lampung region due to prevailing wind patterns in the Sunda Strait. Satellite imagery shows the ash plume extending up to 2.1 kilometres in altitude, drifting towards Banten and the Indian Ocean.

Baznas Sumedang distributes 12,000 litres of clean water in Darmaraja

The National Zakat Agency (Baznas) of Sumedang Regency has distributed over 12,000 litres of clean water to residents in the Tarunajaya village area. This initiative aims to address urgent basic needs for communities facing water shortages.

DPR Commission XII to Inspect Jababeka Over Alleged Environmental Issues

Indonesia's House of Representatives (DPR) Commission XII plans to conduct a site visit to the PT Jababeka Tbk industrial estate following allegations of environmental misconduct. The investigation focuses on the suspected manipulation of laboratory data regarding wastewater standards and the mismanagement of industrial waste infrastructure.

Canada Imposes Retaliatory Tariffs on US Goods as Trade Tensions Rise

Canada has imposed retaliatory tariffs of 15% to 50% on roughly C$27.6 billion worth of U.S. goods, including steel, dairy, electronics and furniture, matching Washington's tariffs on Canadian products on a dollar-for-dollar basis. Trade negotiations remain stalled, and tensions deepened after U.S. President Donald Trump threatened to block Bombardier aircraft sales in the United States unless production moves to America.

Toba Pulp Named Corporate Suspect in Transfer Pricing Case

The Attorney General's Office has named PT Toba Pulp Lestari (TPL) a corporate suspect in a transfer pricing corruption investigation concerning exports to its Macau affiliate between 2008 and 2025. The case allegedly cost the state around Rp 2 trillion, and two individual tax officials were named suspects last month.

11 Volcanoes in Indonesia Erupt Throughout 2026, Here Is the List

The Geological Agency of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources has recorded eruptions at 11 volcanoes across Indonesia during 2026, ranging from Alert Level III to Level II status. The agency continues monitoring and mitigation efforts, noting that Indonesia's position on the Pacific Ring of Fire makes it one of the world's most volcano-prone nations.

Winning: 2026 National MTQ to serve as momentum to further introduce Sign Language Al-Quran

The Indonesian Minister of Religious Affairs, Nasaruddin Umar, has announced that the 2026 National Musabaqah Tilawatil Quran (MTQ) in Semarang will feature an exhibition for the deaf community. This initiative aims to promote the use of Sign Language Al-Quran to ensure religious services are more inclusive for persons with disabilities.

Seven New CLI-225 Electric Trains Forced into Workshops; INKA Breaks Silence

Seven INKA-built iE305 series electric trainsets have been withdrawn from service for intensive General Check Up maintenance, covering critical components such as bogies and propulsion systems. The works have forced KAI Commuter to adjust Jabodetabek schedules, cutting daily services from 1,065 to 1,048 trips, with 17 journeys cancelled or modified.

Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources Committed to Expanding Electricity Access: We Are Building Better Access

The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) has reaffirmed the government's commitment to providing reliable and equitable electricity access across Indonesia. Ministry spokesperson Dwi Anggia emphasised that power reliability underpins access to education, work and healthcare, in line with President Prabowo Subianto's mandate to expand energy access so that no community is left behind.

Stratospheric Internet Technology Targets Hard-to-Reach Signal Areas in Indonesia

World Mobile Stratospheric's SkyMast high-altitude platform promises to beam 4G and 5G connectivity directly to standard mobile phones from the stratosphere, around 60,000 feet above ground. Indonesian tower firm Protelindo has signed an exclusive agreement with Combined Space Technology Limited to acquire, operate and market the technology nationwide. The system could bridge connectivity gaps across Indonesia's thousands of islands and serve as an emergency network when ground infrastructure fails during disasters.

ShopeeVIP+ Officially Launches, Offering Netflix Packages from Rp40,000

Netflix has partnered with Shopee to launch ShopeeVIP+, its first e-commerce partnership in Southeast Asia, rolling out in Indonesia, Thailand and the Philippines. The subscription bundle starts at Rp40,000 per month for Netflix Mobile, alongside shopping perks such as unlimited free instant delivery and daily discount vouchers.

Ogan Ilir Police Provide Free Medical Services to Anticipate Haze Impact

The Ogan Ilir Police in South Sumatra have launched free health check-ups and medical services for residents of Permata Baru Village to mitigate health risks from forest fire haze. The initiative includes the distribution of free masks and essential medicines to help the community manage respiratory issues during the dry season.

Head of Batam KSOP: E-Pas Kecil Simplifies Access to Subsidies for Fishermen

The Batam Special Port Authority and Harbour Master Office has launched the E-Pas Kecil booth to assist local fishermen in securing government subsidies. The initiative aims to streamline the distribution of vessel certificates and ensure aid reaches the intended recipients effectively.

JCI Closes Higher Amid Weakness in Most Asian Markets

The Indonesia Composite Index (JCI) rose by 1.01 per cent on Tuesday, supported by stable foreign exchange reserves and the reopening of several airports. This performance occurred despite broader declines across major Asian stock exchanges and heightened geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.

UK prepares trade ban on illegal West Bank settlements

The United Kingdom is set to implement a formal trade ban on certain goods and services from illegal settlements in the occupied West Bank. British Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband is expected to announce significant shifts in UK-Israel relations to prevent the further expansion of settlements and protect the two-state solution.

Wings Air cancels flights to two airports in NTT due to Lewotolok eruption

Wings Air has cancelled several flight services to Wunopito and Gewayantana airports in East Nusa Tenggara following volcanic ash from Mount Lewotolok. The cancellations are part of a temporary airport closure implemented to ensure flight safety and security.

Jakarta and Java on Megathrust-Tsunami Alert? BMKG and Experts Explain

A Canadian amateur weather forecaster's viral prediction of a major earthquake striking Indonesia before the end of 2026 has drawn attention to the megathrust zones surrounding Java, including Jakarta. The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) says the Sunda Strait segment could trigger a quake of up to M8.9 felt in Jakarta, with a minor tsunami reaching the north coast about three hours later, but stresses that earthquakes cannot be precisely predicted and urges the public to remain calm and rely only on official warnings.

West Kalimantan intensifies efforts to curb forest fires

West Kalimantan Governor Ria Norsan reported that the burned area has shrunk from roughly 38,310 hectares to about 200 hectares, with hotspots falling from over 2,000 to around 156. He urged regional governments and joint teams to sustain integrated firefighting efforts and address health impacts, with 734 cases of acute respiratory infection recorded as of September 5.

AHY Signals 2029 Presidential Run, Gerindra Says Focus on Overseeing Prabowo's Programmes

Gerindra spokesperson Bahtra Banong has responded to signals from Democrat Party chairman Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY) that he may contest the 2029 presidential election, saying every party is free to chart its own political course. Gerindra, however, insists its priority is supporting President Prabowo Subianto's programmes rather than early electioneering. Golkar deputy chairman Ahmad Doli Kurnia earlier noted AHY's speech appeared to position him as a contender for the next presidential race.

Residents' Land in Sumbawa Allegedly Seized by Chinese Nationals for Access to Illegal Mine

Residents of Olat Rawa village in Sumbawa Regency, West Nusa Tenggara, have reported to police that Chinese nationals unilaterally damaged and seized their land, allegedly to build an access road to an illegal mining site. The Sumbawa Police have confirmed they are handling the report, while Regent Syarafuddin Jarot said the local government conducted an inspection in July alongside immigration authorities, stressing that foreign workers and investors must hold proper permits.

Rice Prices Rise in Central Java, Luthfi Calls for Immediate Market Intervention

Central Java authorities have been instructed to implement market interventions, including cheap food movements, following a rise in rice prices. The price hike is attributed to increased costs of harvested grain at the farmer level and the constraints of government-mandated maximum retail prices.

BPBD records floods hitting six regions in North Sumatra

The North Sumatra Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) has reported flooding across six regencies and cities in the province. Langkat Regency has been identified as the most severely affected area, with thousands of families displaced by the rising waters.

BMKG: El Niño extremely strong in NTB, resulting in almost zero rainfall

The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has warned that a very strong El Niño phenomenon is causing extreme drought conditions across West Nusa Tenggara. The phenomenon is expected to significantly extend the dry season, with rainfall levels dropping to near zero in most areas.

Kebon Kosong encourages residents to activate digital ID during rice aid queues

The Kebon Kosong sub-district administration in Central Jakarta is leveraging the distribution of rice aid to encourage residents to activate their Digital Population Identity (IKD). This initiative aims to increase the adoption of digital identification to streamline access to administrative services.

Geological Agency: Anak Krakatau Erupts Eight Times as Flights Resume

The Geological Agency recorded eight short eruptions of Mount Anak Krakatau on Tuesday (8/9), with volcanic ash not spreading beyond three kilometres. Agency head Lana Saria said the volcano remains at Level III 'Siaga' (alert) status but has returned to its characteristic Strombolian phase, with seismic activity declining since 5 September.

Purbaya Labelled Arrogant and Full of Hot Air — Here Is the Real Reason

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has revealed that his perceived arrogance stems from a deliberate strategy of projecting optimism to restore market and public confidence following large-scale demonstrations. He explained that he applied the macroeconomics of self-fulfilling prophecies, a theory from his own 1993 book, to shape positive economic expectations. The government has also taken steps such as moving the Budget Surplus (SAL) to state-owned banks to strengthen liquidity.

Korea's 'Descendants of the Sun' Adapted for Indonesia: What to Know

Indonesian director Hanung Bramantyo has completed filming an adaptation of the South Korean hit series Descendants of the Sun, set for theatrical release in Indonesia in 2027. The production is an international collaboration involving Indonesian firms and South Korean entertainment companies, with international sales handled by Barunson E&A. The film stars Reza Rahadian and Dian Sastrowardoyo as leads for the first time, alongside Eva Celia.

Government Targets 100 Per Cent Waste Management by End of 2029

The Indonesian government has set a target of managing 100 per cent of waste by the end of 2029, using environmentally friendly technology to convert both new and accumulated landfill waste into renewable energy. According to the Ministry of Environment, around 144,562 tonnes of waste are generated daily, with 75 per cent still unmanaged and many landfills operating beyond capacity via open dumping. The strategy is grounded in Presidential Regulation No. 109 of 2025 and spans upstream separation of waste to downstream waste-to-energy processing.

MSME Ministry earmarks Rp350.2 billion for Aceh disaster recovery

Indonesia's MSME Ministry has allocated Rp350.2 billion to help disaster-affected micro, small and medium enterprises in Aceh recover, including Rp340.63 billion in presidential aid giving Rp3 million each to 113,292 microenterprises. Further funds cover repairs to a shared patchouli production facility, distillation machinery, empowerment programmes for 5,312 MSMEs, and the UMKM Bangkit Clinic scheme across five regencies. Officials have urged regional governments to supply reliable data to ensure assistance matches businesses' actual needs.

Lampung Deputy Governor: Community Health Centres Ready to Treat ARI Complaints Caused by Volcanic Ash

Lampung Deputy Governor Jihan Nurlela has confirmed that community health centres (Puskesmas) are prepared to handle a rise in acute respiratory tract infections (ISPA) linked to volcanic ash from Mount Anak Krakatau. Health workers have been ordered to boost readiness in terms of medicines, oxygen and referral systems, while residents are urged to limit outdoor activities and wear masks. The government continues to monitor air quality, with sulphur dioxide concentrations recorded at 212-224 micrograms per cubic metre in Bandarlampung.

Austria Begins Enforcing Headscarf Ban in Schools, Violators Face Fines of Up to Rp16 Million

Austria has begun enforcing a ban on headscarves for Muslim schoolgirls under the age of 14 in both state and private schools. The policy, backed by the governing coalition and the far-right FPÖ, has drawn strong opposition from the Islamic Religious Community in Austria (IGGÖ), which argues it unreasonably restricts religious freedom and could lead to a legal challenge before the Constitutional Court. Austria previously had a similar ban for children under 10 struck down by the Constitutional Court in 2020.

Bogor Health Office Urges Residents to Avoid Smoke Exposure from Galuga Landfill Fire

The Bogor Regency Health Office has issued a warning to residents regarding the health risks posed by smoke from the Galuga landfill fire. Officials are advising vulnerable groups to limit outdoor activities and seek medical attention at local health centres if respiratory issues arise.

Government prepares mechanism for mass account opening at BRI and BSI

The government is preparing a mechanism to open bank accounts en masse for all Indonesian citizens at Bank Rakyat Indonesia and Bank Syariah Indonesia, following President Prabowo Subianto's instructions to strengthen financial inclusion. Coordinating Economic Minister Airlangga Hartarto said the system will use a digital application based on the national identity number (NIK) and will be synchronised with the Home Affairs Ministry's civil registry data. The accounts are also intended to channel cash social assistance and integrate with Bank Indonesia's payment systems, including QRIS.

Police deliver earthquake aid to residents of isolated coastal areas

A joint National Police (Polri) team delivered logistical assistance by sea to residents affected by the earthquake in Pasir Panjang, West Manggarai, East Nusa Tenggara, as land access to the hamlet is impassable by vehicles. Around 23 personnel used a patrol vessel and local fishing boats to transfer relief supplies including rice, instant noodles, blankets and clothing to community representatives for distribution.

House of Representatives Urges Integrated Cross-Ministerial Handling of Forest Fires and Disasters

The Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) has called for a unified, cross-ministerial approach to managing forest fires and natural disasters. Speaker Puan Maharani emphasised the need for a leading coordinating sector to mitigate the widespread impacts of disasters on public health and social welfare.

IHSG Soars 1.01% at Today's Close, All Sectors in the Green

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) rose 1.01%, or 66.77 points, to close at 6,686.44 on Tuesday (8/9/2026), with all sectors finishing in positive territory. Bank Central Asia was the biggest index contributor at 11.73 points, whilst foreign investors posted a net buy of Rp83.37 billion. The index is now approaching the psychological level of 6,700 after erasing the previous session's 0.25% decline.

Ministry of Religious Affairs confirms preparations for MTQ in Semarang are complete

The Ministry of Religious Affairs has confirmed that all preparations within its remit for the 31st National Musabaqah Tilawatil Quran (MTQ) in Semarang, Central Java, are complete. The event, scheduled for 11–20 September 2026, will involve some 7,338 participants and officials from 37 provinces. Extensive logistical, health and support services have been arranged, including 190 liaison officers and 24-hour medical coverage led by RSUP Dr. Kariadi.

Attorney General's Office re-questions suspect and former Jampidsus Febrie Adriansyah

The Attorney General's Office has again questioned Febrie Adriansyah, former Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes, as a suspect in alleged corruption and money laundering linked to the legal handling of PT ASABRI and/or PT Asuransi Jiwasraya. He was escorted in a detainee vehicle to the Attorney General's main building in Jakarta on 8 September 2026.

To Tackle Volcanic Ash, South Tangerang City Government Sprays Major Roads

The South Tangerang municipal government sprayed water along several main roads in the early hours of Tuesday to dampen settled volcanic ash and prevent it from being blown back into the air. Deputy Mayor Pilar Saga Ichsan led the operation, which involved the fire service, the regional disaster agency, and other local agencies. Authorities will continue monitoring road corridors and treating them in stages whilst urging residents to wear masks outdoors.

Ijen Crater Tourism Park Wildfires Begin to Subside

Wildfires in the Ijen Crater Nature Tourism Park straddling Banyuwangi and Bondowoso regencies in East Java have gradually subsided, with joint teams conducting cooling and mopping-up operations supported by BPBD water-bombing helicopters. Banyuwangi Regent Ipuk Fiestiandani said some hotspots remain in hard-to-reach areas such as around Mount Papak, prompting continued aerial firefighting of roughly 30 water drops per day, each carrying 1,000 litres from the PT Medco reservoir.

Purbaya Opens Up After a Year as Finance Minister: Weight Loss and Battling Negative Perceptions

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has shared the highs and lows of nearly a year in office, revealing that his weight dropped from 102 kilograms to as low as 88 under the pressure of the job. He remains optimistic that the Indonesian economy is escaping the so-called '5 per cent growth curse', pointing to growth of 5.39 per cent in Q4 2025 and predicting a move towards 6 per cent by the fourth quarter of 2026.

Geological Agency: Anak Krakatau Eruption Returns to Strombolian Phase

The Geological Agency of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources has reported that Mount Anak Krakatau in the Sunda Strait has returned to its characteristic Strombolian eruption phase, with short-lived and low-amplitude bursts. Seismic activity has declined consistently since 5 September, and airports previously affected by volcanic ash have resumed operations. Despite the easing activity, the alert status remains at Level III (Siaga) with a three-kilometre safety radius.

Indonesia Enters Global Top 10 for ChatGPT Usage as OpenAI Pushes for Strategic Partnerships

OpenAI has revealed that Indonesia ranks among the world's ten largest markets for weekly active ChatGPT users, signalling massive AI adoption across the country. However, the company warns of a capability gap, with most users and businesses still at a basic usage stage, and has partnered with the Southeast Asia Policy Institute to formulate policy recommendations for the Indonesian government.

136 Students and One Teacher at SMAN 1 Tunjungan Blora Suspected of MBG Food Poisoning

A total of 136 students and one teacher at SMAN 1 Tunjungan in Blora Regency, Central Java, are suspected of suffering food poisoning after eating meals supplied under the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. Four students were referred to hospital, whilst one pupil remained under care at a clinic. The case has drawn the attention of the provincial education office, with the local health authorities leading the response.

Rupiah strengthens as forex reserves hit US$146.5 billion: analyst

Indonesia's foreign-exchange reserves rose to US$146.5 billion in August, up from US$145.3 billion in July, driven by higher tax and service revenues, government foreign borrowing and stabilisation measures by Bank Indonesia. Analyst Ibrahim Assuaibi said the ample reserves, covering 5.4 months of imports, should bolster external resilience and attract foreign capital inflows. The rupiah strengthened to Rp17,618 per dollar on the JISDOR from Rp17,653 previously.

SIG: People's Schools Programme to Giant Sea Wall Driving Cement Demand

PT Semen Indonesia (SIG) says government strategic programmes such as the People's Schools initiative, the three million houses plan, and the planned Giant Sea Wall are key drivers of national cement demand. The state cement producer posted a 5.6 per cent year-on-year rise in first-half 2026 sales volume to 18.28 million tonnes, whilst reducing its financial liabilities by Rp2.3 trillion.

Bandarlampung Health Office monitors public health situation

The Bandarlampung City Health Office has deployed 31 community health centres to monitor public health following the eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau, which spread volcanic ash across the area. Authorities are focusing on early detection of respiratory, eye and skin conditions linked to ash exposure, and have urged residents to wear masks outdoors.

Israeli Soldiers Throw Stun Grenades at Worshippers in West Bank Mosque

Israeli forces threw stun grenades at worshippers inside a mosque near Bethlehem, the third attack on a place of worship in the occupied West Bank since early September. Attacks on mosques in the territory have escalated in recent months, including attempted arson and racist graffiti, amid a worsening climate of tension.

One Year as Finance Minister, Purbaya: Economy Ready to Grow 6 Per Cent

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa says the national economy is ready to move towards 6 per cent growth as he marks one year in office. Growth reached 5.39 per cent in the fourth quarter of last year, 5.61 per cent in the first quarter of 2026 and 5.29 per cent in the second, and he believes Indonesia has escaped the stagnant 5 per cent trend. Purbaya says his public optimism is a deliberate design to shape positive expectations among the public and investors, warning that recession can become a self-fulfilling prophecy.

Attorney General's Office Will Not Provide Legal Assistance to Febrio in Sutrimo Case

The Attorney General's Office (Kejaksaan Agung) has confirmed it will not provide legal assistance to its employee Febrio Adianto, who is set to be questioned by Polda Metro Jaya over the death of Sutrimo. Officials said the matter is personal, as Febrio will be questioned as a witness rather than in his capacity as a prosecutor's office employee.

Purbaya's Measure of Economic Improvement: Fewer Street Protests

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa claims that declining public participation in demonstrations is a sign of improving economic conditions and public satisfaction. He acknowledged economic pressure in the second quarter of 2026, when growth slowed to 5.29%, but expressed confidence that better fiscal and monetary policy transmission would lift growth towards 6% year-on-year in the second half.

PPPA Ministry Coordinates Cross-Sectoral Effort to Address Child Trafficking to Singapore

The Ministry of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection (PPPA) is strengthening coordination across ministries, agencies and regional governments following the discovery of infants from West Java allegedly sold to Singapore through illegal adoption. Eighteen child victims are currently abroad, seven departures were foiled, and nineteen perpetrators have been convicted.

Community-Based Waste Management Earns ANTAM Green Economy Award 2026

PT Aneka Tambang Tbk (ANTAM) has received the Green Economy Award 2026 for its community-based waste management and biodiversity conservation initiatives. The award recognises the company's commitment to ESG principles and its efforts to transform environmental restoration into economic opportunities.

Batam economy grows 7.28%, outpacing national growth as investment drives expansion

Batam's economy expanded by 7.28 per cent year-on-year in Q2 2026, significantly outperforming Indonesia's national growth rate of 5.29 per cent. Driven by manufacturing and investment, BP Batam officials are now focusing on converting investment commitments into tangible projects and employment opportunities.

US Envoys Depart, Russia Immediately Pounds Kyiv with Ballistic Missiles

Russia resumed a deadly air assault on Kyiv with ballistic missiles shortly after American peace envoys Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff left Ukraine following talks with President Volodymyr Zelensky. At least six people were wounded, residential buildings were damaged and fires broke out across the capital, prompting Poland to launch military air operations to protect its airspace.

Environment Ministry prepares waste roadmap, updates producer rules

Indonesia's Environment Ministry is preparing a staged waste management roadmap for 2025-2029 aimed at achieving 100 percent waste management under the National Medium-Term Development Plan. Deputy Vinda Damayanti Ansjar told Parliament the country generates 144,562 tons of waste daily, with only about 25 percent properly managed, and said the ministry is revising producer responsibility rules to require businesses and importers to fund packaging waste recovery through a new Producer Responsibility Organization.

Public Satisfaction Falls Ahead of Two Years of Prabowo's Government, Expert Urges Evaluation of Ministers

With President Prabowo Subianto's government approaching its two-year mark, a political communication expert has called for a cabinet evaluation and reshuffle amid declining public satisfaction, particularly in the economy, politics and law enforcement. M. Jamiluddin Ritonga also urged the abolition of all deputy minister positions to deliver genuine government efficiency. He warned that public satisfaction could fall further if no cabinet evaluation takes place.

Does reading in the dark really damage your eyes? Here are the facts

Reading in dim light may cause temporary eye strain but does not permanently damage vision, according to the National Eye Institute. Experts say prolonged screen use can lead to digital eye strain, though there is no scientific evidence that screen light harms the eyes. Persistent vision problems should be checked by an eye specialist rather than blamed on reading habits.

Closed lightweight brick factory in Banyumas caught operating again

The Banyumas regency government in Central Java has again halted production at lightweight brick factory PT Inovasi Kota Nusantara after a surprise inspection found the company operating despite being closed since 21 August 2026. Inspectors discovered live machines, trucks moving raw materials and finished goods, and Chinese foreign workers on site. The company claimed it was only running the machines for maintenance, but the regency said production activity breached the closure commitment, which followed a land-use violation involving some 40,000 square metres against an approved 24,485 square metres.

Jakarta flights at Aceh's Sultan Iskandar Muda Airport resume operations

Flights between Banda Aceh and Jakarta at Sultan Iskandar Muda International Airport resumed on Tuesday after being disrupted by the closure of Soekarno-Hatta International Airport due to the eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau. Airport general manager Rahmat Adil Indrawan said ten Jakarta-bound flights had been cancelled and that the airport had activated service recovery measures for affected passengers.

Husein Airport Reopens After Mount Anak Krakatau Closure, Passengers Welcome the Move

Flight operations at Husein Sastranegara International Airport in Bandung have resumed after volcanic ash from the eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau forced a temporary closure. Passengers welcomed the reopening, expressing relief and hope that routes and flight frequencies will continue to expand to improve air connectivity from Bandung.

Commission B Urges Ancol Marina Repairs to Support Access to the Thousand Islands

Nova Harivan Paloh, chairman of Commission B of the Jakarta Regional People's Representative Council, has urged Ancol's operator to upgrade its marina as part of the 65-hectare reclamation development plan. He argued that a functioning marina would support public access to the Thousand Islands and generate revenue from tickets and shop rentals. PT Pembangunan Jaya Ancol confirmed that the marina is included in the rezone development plans.

Bamsoet Set to Release His 38th Book, Raising Parliamentary Realities and His Life Journey

Golkar MP Bambang Soesatyo is set to launch his 38th book, 'Politik Hukum Konstitusi: Menjembatani Teori Akademis dan Realitas Parlemen', alongside a biography by senior Kompas journalist J. Osdar. Drawing on his long parliamentary experience, he argues that academic theory and legislative practice must inform one another.

Bakom Urges Residents to Stay Alert to Hoaxes Following Mount Anak Krakatau Eruption

The government's Communication Agency (Bakom) has urged communities near Mount Anak Krakatau to remain vigilant and avoid unverified information following the end of a 25-hour continuous eruption phase. Bakom's principal expert, Muhamad Hidayat, reported that activity on Sebesi Island remains normal, with ferry crossings operating as usual. Residents were advised to rely only on official channels such as the Geological Agency, BNPB and BMKG to prevent panic caused by disinformation.

The Selvi Ayunda Phenomenon: A Jember Musician Breaking Into the Music Industry via TikTok

Selvi Ayunda, a dangdut singer from Jember, East Java, has leveraged TikTok to reach a national audience without relying on major record labels or the Jakarta entertainment industry. Her rise illustrates the growth of the creator economy among young Indonesians, as she supplements stage performances with personal branding and plans to launch a skincare business. She is now preparing a new single in the hope of gaining listeners beyond East Java.

Steps for inspecting commercial vehicles affected by volcanic ash

Isuzu Astra Motor Indonesia has issued guidance on maintaining commercial vehicles operating in areas affected by volcanic ash. The company recommends inspecting air filters, intake systems and ducting, as well as cleaning windscreens properly to avoid abrasive damage. The advice follows volcanic ashfall that could impair vehicle performance and driver visibility.

Dozens of Buleleng Residents Struck Off Social Aid Lists Over Online Gambling Detection

As many as 32 beneficiary families in Buleleng, Bali, have had their social assistance (bansos) payments suspended after being flagged for suspected online gambling activity during a data update. The local social services office is facilitating an appeal process, though reinstatement remains subject to central government verification. Those proven involved in online gambling must close the associated bank accounts before reapplying.

Airlines told to inspect aircraft after Anak Krakatau's eruption

Indonesian aviation authorities have ordered airlines to thoroughly inspect aircraft, including engines and surfaces, for volcanic ash before resuming flights following the eruption of Anak Krakatau. Several airports, including Soekarno-Hatta, Halim Perdanakusuma and Husein Sastranegara, reopened on Tuesday after a national aviation safety assessment cleared operations to resume. Authorities also stressed that pilots must be aware of restricted airspace polygons closed due to hazardous ash.

Grindr Suspected of Leaking Users' HIV Status, Fined Rp620 Billion

Grindr, the world's largest LGBTQ+ dating app, has agreed to pay £26 million (around Rp620 billion) to settle a class action over allegations it shared sensitive personal data, including users' HIV status, with third parties. The lawsuit, brought by more than 11,000 claimants in the English High Court, stemmed from 2018 findings that the app had passed sensitive data to analytics firms for advertising purposes. Grindr denies liability, noting the practices predate 2020 when it was under Chinese ownership by Kunlun.

PSI's Bestari Dismisses 'Solo Axis' Talk Ahead of 2029 Presidential Election: Wild Speculation

Bestari Barus, head of PSI's political affairs, has dismissed talk of a 'Solo axis' ahead of the 2029 presidential election as mere speculation, saying the party is focused on factual verification with the KPU. The term was floated by Golkar deputy chairman Ahmad Doli Kurnia, who pointed to 'Solo' and 'Cikeas' axes—associated with Jokowi's circle and the Democrat Party respectively—as political forces positioning for the next election. PSI is now led by Jokowi's youngest son, Kaesang Pangarep.

Expert Tells Constitutional Court That Polri as Principal Investigator Under the Criminal Procedure Code Cannot Control Other Investigators

Expert witnesses told the Constitutional Court that designating the National Police (Polri) as "Principal Investigator" in the new Criminal Procedure Code (KUHAP) does not grant it a superior constitutional position or the power to control investigators from other institutions. They argued that provisions on coordination, supervision and orders must be narrowly interpreted to avoid turning horizontal coordination into subordination, which would undermine the independence of civil servant investigators (PPNS) and sectoral investigators. The applicants challenge the new KUHAP for redesigning the national investigation system and expanding police discretion over coercive measures.

BNPB urges residents in three areas affected by Mount Anak Krakatau to wear masks

The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has identified three regencies — South Lampung, Tanggamus and Pandeglang — as areas affected by the volcanic activity of Mount Anak Krakatau. It has urged residents carrying out activities outdoors to use protective equipment such as masks and goggles. Health officials have been dispatched to affected areas to check residents and distribute medication.

Bitcoin Rebounds After Falling to US$57,000 — Momentum or a Trap?

Bitcoin has recovered around 25% since touching a cycle low of roughly US$57,735 in July 2026, though it remains about 37.5% below its all-time high of US$126,198 set in October 2025. Analysts at Pintu note that the current cycle's drawdown remains shallower than previous ones, but shifting institutional flows and macroeconomic sentiment warrant a measured, risk-appropriate investment strategy such as dollar cost averaging.

State losses in Kotim regional election grant case estimated at Rp10 billion

The Central Kalimantan High Prosecutor's Office estimates state losses of around Rp10 billion from alleged corruption in the use of grant funds for the 2024 regional election at the Kotawaringin Timur General Election Commission (KPU). Seven suspects have been named, including five election commissioners, with the funds totalling Rp40 billion sourced from the district budget. Investigators examined 24 witnesses to expedite the probe.

PGN and Sidoarjo Regency push for wider natural gas use among MSMEs

PT Perusahaan Gas Negara (PGN) is partnering with the Sidoarjo Regency Government to expand natural gas use among residents and micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). The initiative includes the City Gas Tour 2026 programme, CNG-based GasLink demonstrations, and safety education campaigns. The collaboration forms part of broader efforts to promote cleaner energy and support sustainable economic growth in the regency.

Clean Air Day: Jakarta Regional Council Highlights Need for Regulation to Tackle Pollution

Jakarta Regional Legislative Council member William A. Sarana has called for five per cent of the Jakarta regional budget to be allocated to air pollution control, urging acceleration of the 2027 regional regulation formation programme. He noted that the current regulation underpinning air pollution control, enacted in 2005, is more than two decades old and requires updating. The remarks came during a talk event marking International Day of Clean Air 2026.

Transgender Robbery Gang That Targeted Foreigners in Seminyak Faces 18-Month Prison Sentence

Prosecutors at Denpasar District Court have demanded 18 months' imprisonment for four defendants who robbed two foreign nationals at a villa in Seminyak, Badung, in March 2026. The gang, led by two transgender women who had met one victim via Tinder, made off with goods and cash totalling around Rp 324 million after assaulting one victim with a machete. Two further suspects remain at large.

RI Govt monitoring protection of babies trafficked to Singapore

Deputy for Child Special Protection Titi Eko Rahayu said the government was concerned about the case and stressed that children must never be treated as commodities. The children’s best interests must remain the priority throughout prevention and case handling, including ensuring their rights and providing services tailored to their needs, she said here Tuesday.

Europe-US Inflation Heating Up, Storm of Interest Rate Hikes Looming

Inflation is rising again across advanced economies, prompting central banks worldwide to resume tightening monetary policy despite recession risks. Energy prices driven by the Middle East war and persistently high core inflation have revived cost-of-living concerns. Bank Indonesia has already raised its benchmark rate by 100 basis points to 5.75% in 2026 to guard price stability and the rupiah.

In Response to AHY's Statement, Gerindra Affirms Focus on Safeguarding President Prabowo's Priority Programmes

Partai Gerindra has responded to Democratic Party chairman Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono's remarks that power is not held forever, stating the party remains focused on delivering President Prabowo Subianto's priority programmes rather than early electoral manoeuvring. Gerindra spokesman Bahtra Banong said every party is free to prepare for future contests, but his party will concentrate on fulfilling campaign promises to the public.

Harita Nickel Launches 'Obi Coral Reef Fish' Book, Documenting North Maluku's Marine Biodiversity

Harita Nickel has published a 110-page book documenting more than 300 coral reef fish species found in the waters off western Obi Island, South Halmahera, North Maluku. The book, produced in collaboration with Kompas Book Publishers, is based on routine biodiversity monitoring by the company's HSE team and forms part of its data-driven environmental management commitment. Executives said the publication aims to foster marine conservation alongside the company's mining operations.

The Lyrics and Meaning of the Haornas March, Sung at the Commemoration Ceremony

Indonesia marks its 43rd National Sports Day (Haornas) on 9 September, with the Haornas March forming part of the official flag ceremony as stipulated in a circular from the Minister of Youth and Sports. Written by Ireng Maulana and Nanda Dewi Abidhin, the march promotes sporting spirit, sportsmanship and national unity from Sabang to Merauke.

Sky Over Changzhou, China Turns Red, Residents Warned of Heavy Rain

An unusual natural phenomenon saw the sky over Changzhou in Jiangsu Province, China, turn pink to bright red on the morning of 31 August 2026, with residents capturing viral footage of the eerie glow. The Suzhou Meteorological Observatory subsequently issued yellow alerts for heavy rain, thunderstorms and strong winds, warning of possible flooding.

Take Note! These Are the Various 9.9 Super Food Day Promotions from ShopeeFood, Prices from Rp99

ShopeeFood is launching its 9.9 Super Food Day campaign throughout September, coinciding with National Customer Day on 4 September, offering flash sales from Rp99, 99% hourly discounts, free delivery up to Rp30,000, and cheap checkout deals. The campaign also aims to boost merchant growth, and customers can win a Geely EX2 electric car through the ShopeeFood Mission programme.

Netanyahu Accused of Ignoring UAE Warning About Hamas Attack

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces fierce criticism following a Haaretz report that the UAE president warned him around ten days before the 7 October 2023 Hamas attack that a large-scale operation was being planned. Opposition figures including Gadi Eisenkot and Naftali Bennett say Netanyahu bears direct responsibility for the security failure and is unfit to remain in office, just weeks before the 27 October election.

PPP Ministry Joins Forces with Ministries and Agencies to Handle Cross-Border Human Trafficking Child Victims

The Ministry of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection is coordinating with central and regional governments, law enforcement and relevant agencies to protect child victims of an alleged cross-border human trafficking case involving babies from West Java sold to Singapore through illegal adoption. Eighteen children are currently abroad, whilst the departure of seven others was successfully prevented. Nineteen perpetrators have been prosecuted and sentenced.

AHY Hints at 2029 Presidential Run, Gerindra Spokesman Says: Every Party Has Its Freedom, We Cannot Forbid It

Gerindra spokesman Bahtra Banong has stated that every political party is free to decide its own political direction ahead of the 2029 presidential election, responding to signals from Democrat Party chairman Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY) that he may run. Bahtra said Gerindra is currently focused on supporting President Prabowo Subianto's priority programmes, noting the election is still far off. AHY had earlier reminded his party that power is not owned by anyone permanently but is a mandate from the people with a time limit.

Football Pitch in Gatsu Pancoran Catches Fire Due to a Cigarette Butt

A fire, suspected to have been caused by a discarded cigarette butt, burnt a 900-square-metre football pitch in the Gatot Subroto area of Pancoran, South Jakarta. Firefighters deployed three pump units and 12 personnel, extinguishing the blaze within about an hour. No casualties were reported, and damage assessments are ongoing.

Economist: Needs mapping should support reduction of salt imports

Eliza Mardian of CORE Indonesia has urged the government to strengthen the mapping of salt demand by user type to support the gradual reduction of industrial salt imports ahead of a full import ban in 2029. She cautioned that a million tonnes of salt from community ponds cannot automatically replace a million tonnes of imports, as different industries require different raw material specifications.

Jakarta CSR Forum pushes ready-to-eat food aid for disaster response in East Nusa Tenggara

The DKI Jakarta CSR Forum has encouraged the provision of ready-to-eat food aid for disaster victims in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), praising Toko Daging Nusantara's delivery of one tonne of ready-to-eat rendang beef. Forum chairman Aldi Imam Wibowo said retort food technology offers a practical nutritional solution in crisis zones and called for its adoption in national disaster preparedness policy, including by BNPB and the Ministry of Social Affairs.

BNPB Proposes Additional Rp 5.67 Trillion Ready-Use Fund for 2026 Disaster Management

Indonesia's National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has proposed an additional Rp 5.67 trillion in ready-use funds to the Ministry of Finance for the 2026 fiscal year. BNPB's total 2026 budget stands at around Rp 1.08 trillion, on top of Rp 4.62 trillion in ready-use funds already received for emergency response. The agency argues the unpredictable nature of disasters makes such contingency funding crucial beyond regular budget planning.

Suspected Robbers, Drunk Brothers Beaten by Residents While Embracing in Bekasi

Two brothers, Fauzi and Erman, were beaten by residents at Cibenda Market in Serang Baru, Bekasi Regency, after being mistaken for motorcycle robbers. The incident began when Fauzi, who was intoxicated on Balinese arak, blocked a woman's motorbike, causing her to fall. Police from Serang Baru station have taken both men into custody for further investigation.

Ministry of Creative Economy promotes human-centric AI to safeguard human creativity

The Ministry of Creative Economy (Ekraf)/Creative Economy Agency (Bekraf) is advocating a human-centric approach to artificial intelligence to ensure humans remain central to the creative process. Director of Technology Creativity Dandy Yudha Feryawan stressed that AI-assisted works do not automatically lose their originality, as long as human creative contribution and control over the final output are preserved.

PTP Non-Container Records Positive Performance, July 2026 Throughput Rises 17.85% Year-on-Year

PTP Non-Container, part of the Pelindo Group, recorded a throughput of 31.39 million tonnes/m³ between January and July 2026, reaching 108.54% of its target and growing 17.85% compared with the same period last year. Chief Executive Indra Hidayat Sani attributed the growth to ongoing operational transformation and stronger collaboration with service users. Several branches, including Pontianak, Kijing, Panjang and Tanjung Priok, exceeded their throughput targets.

Savings Grow 12%, Purbaya Denies Indonesians Are Mass 'Dipping Into Savings'

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has dismissed claims that Indonesians are broadly depleting their savings to cope with economic pressure, pointing to double-digit growth in third-party funds at banks. He acknowledged some people have yet to feel the benefits of recovery, but said the government injected additional liquidity in July and early August to accelerate growth and broaden its reach.

Legislator Asks BMKG to Stop Using 'Computer Language': The Public Doesn't Understand

Boyman Harun, a PAN legislator on Commission V of the House of Representatives, has criticised the Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) for delivering disaster information in overly technical, computer-generated language that ordinary citizens cannot understand. During a hearing on 8 September 2026, he urged the agency to provide timely, location-specific information that also includes concrete mitigation steps, citing forest and land fires as an example.

Lampung's Radin Inten II Airport Reopens amid Krakatau Ash

AirNav Indonesia has reopened Radin Inten II Airport in Lampung along with four other airports affected by volcanic ash from Mount Anak Krakatau, including facilities in Tangerang, South Tangerang and Banten. Reopenings follow updated NOTAM notices based on shifts in ash dispersal patterns, though monitoring continues as ash clouds are still detected across flight sectors. Pilots have been advised to remain cautious during arrival and departure procedures, with periodic ash tests at affected airports yielding negative results.

Bapanas: Government Strengthens SPHP Supply to Serve Markets and Retail

The Indonesian government has added one million tonnes to the medium-rice allocation under the Food Supply and Price Stabilisation (SPHP) programme to bolster supplies during the El Nino dry season. The National Food Agency (Bapanas) is prioritising distribution through people's markets and modern retail, alongside cheap food movements and a reactivated rice price and quality monitoring task force. Rice inflation stood at 0.42 percent month-on-month in August, remaining within the government's tolerance range.

Police Close Three Illegal Class C Quarries in Bima

The Special Crime Unit of the Bima Police in West Nusa Tenggara has shut down three unlicensed Class C quarry sites across three villages. The action, based on the 2020 Mining Law amendment, was taken to protect the environment and prevent landslides and other impacts of illegal mining.

18 Children Victims of Human Trafficking to Singapore, PPPA Ministry Oversees Legal Process

The Ministry of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection (PPPA) is closely monitoring the handling of an alleged human trafficking case involving babies from West Java sent to Singapore under the guise of illegal adoption. Eighteen child victims are currently abroad, whilst authorities foiled the departure of seven others, and 19 perpetrators have already been convicted.

Central Kalimantan continues to push forest fire handling and clean water distribution

The Central Kalimantan provincial government has mobilised 10,700 combined personnel, six helicopters and a weather modification aircraft to combat forest and land fires during the ongoing dry season. It has also distributed more than 635,850 litres of clean water to drought-affected villages across several regencies as of 5 September 2026.

Sleman Health Office reveals investigation results into health complaints linked to free nutritious meal programme

The Sleman District Health Office, together with Turi Community Health Centre and UGM's Field Epidemiology Training Programme, has investigated suspected health complaints following consumption of the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. Of 261 respondents, 35 reported health complaints, with 204 having consumed the meals, and distribution has been temporarily suspended at affected locations pending further investigation.

Andrew Andika Reveals Losses from Suspected Business Fraud

Actor Andrew Andika told investigators at Bogor Regency Police that he too was a victim of an alleged fraud and embezzlement scheme involving the business partner of Ridho Illahi, sustaining losses of under Rp 50 million. Ridho's lawyer claims there is evidence of criminal intent, with funds from multiple victims transferred to the suspect's account, and called for the police to act swiftly. The case stems from an investment offer covering grouper and crab farming as well as a mobile phone business, in which promised returns and the return of capital never materialised.

Study: Aerobic Exercise Helps Preserve Mental Sharpness in Women After Menopause

A study published in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease has found that aerobic exercise can help maintain and improve cognitive abilities in post-menopausal women. Participants who did aerobic exercise four days a week for six months performed better on cognitive tests than those who only did stretching and muscle-toning exercises, particularly in executive function.

Thousands of Students in Subang Protest Over Alleged Sexual Abuse by Deputy Headmaster of SMAN 1

Some 1,445 students at SMAN 1 Pamanukan in Subang, West Java, staged a protest demanding action against a deputy headmaster, initialled AT, who is alleged to have sexually harassed around 15 female students. The suspect was taken into police custody after tensions flared when he reportedly attempted to flee the school grounds. The case has been handed to the Women and Children Protection Unit at Subang Police, where investigations continue as more victims may come forward.

Video: Banker Reveals Credit Prospects and Liquidity Through to End of 2026

Standard Chartered's Cluster CFO for Indonesia & ASEAN Markets, Dina Middin, discusses the outlook for Indonesia's banking sector through to late 2026. She highlights positive growth prospects underpinned by strong domestic consumption and government programmes, while noting that volatile global interest rates are prompting the private sector to hold back on credit expansion.

Renoir Museum Robbery: Three Paintings Missing

Two thieves broke into the Renoir Museum in Cagnes-sur-Mer on the French Riviera early on Tuesday and made off with three paintings, abandoning a fourth as they fled; the four works were valued at around €9 million. The heist follows a series of high-profile art thefts across Europe, with Europol noting that opportunistic gangs, often assembled via social media, are replacing specialist crews drawn by the low-risk, high-profit nature of museum robberies.

Government: Regulation to Accelerate 100 GWp Solar Power Plants Still Under Inter-ministerial Discussion

The government is still harmonising a presidential regulation to accelerate the development of 100 gigawatt peak (GWp) of solar power plants, with discussions ongoing between ministries and agencies. Elen Setiadi, Deputy for Energy and Mineral Resources Coordination at the Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs, said the regulation is crucial to ensure the programme runs in a directed and optimised manner. President Prabowo Subianto has targeted completion within three years to secure Indonesia's energy independence and achieve cost efficiencies of up to Rp73.9 trillion.

Indonesia secures $198M in potential seafood deals at Tokyo expo

Indonesia secured $198 million in potential seafood trade deals at a Tokyo expo, with strong Japanese demand for tuna, octopus, squid and processed fish products. Officials credit improved market access under the revised Indonesia-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement, which eliminates tariffs on Indonesian processed fish exports. The deals build on existing momentum, as Indonesia's processed seafood exports to Japan rose 29.05 per cent year-on-year to $45.81 million in the first half of 2026, with tuna and skipjack accounting for nearly 90 per cent of shipments.

Hands-on with the Galaxy S26 FE, Samsung's 'Affordable' Flagship Priced from Rp 11 Million

Samsung has launched the Galaxy S26 FE in Indonesia starting at Rp 11.99 million. A hands-on review highlights its 7.4mm design, Gorilla Glass Victus+ protection, and the debut of the AI-powered My FanCam feature on the FE line. The device is powered by an Exynos 2500 chipset and comes with a promise of seven years of OS and security updates.

Mayors urged to find solutions to reckless JakLingko drivers

A NasDem member of the Jakarta DPRD's Commission A has called on the city's five administrative mayors to hold coordination meetings to address complaints about reckless JakLingko drivers. Ongen Sangaji said the behaviour, found across nearly all of Jakarta, has unsettled and frightened public transport users. He also questioned why drivers pursue passenger targets aggressively given the service receives regional budget incentives.

PAG Reveals Long-Term Business Plans, Including the Andaman Block

PT Perta Arun Gas (PAG) has unveiled a long-term business plan to transform Arun into a global integrated energy hub, encompassing LNG, LPG, condensate, fuel oil and carbon capture storage. The plan includes new LNG storage tanks, fuel and LPG tank revitalisation, a gas processing plant and petrochemical facilities, and positions PAG as a key counterparty for onshore and offshore activities at the Andaman Block.

NasDem Legislator Eva Stevany Clarifies After Being Listed in Decile 4

NasDem party legislator Eva Stevany Rataba has denied ever receiving assistance from the Family Hope Programme (PKH) after her name was reportedly listed in decile 4 of the National Socio-Economic Single Data (DTSEN). She has questioned the matter in a meeting of Commission X of the House of Representatives with Statistics Indonesia (BPS) and visited the North Toraja Social Services Office to demand verification and correction of the data. She urged the incident to serve as a moment to improve the accuracy and transparency of the social assistance data system.

Houthi attack wounds 73 civilians in southern Saudi Arabia

At least 73 civilians were wounded when Yemen's Houthi movement attacked cities and economic infrastructure in southern Saudi Arabia, according to the Saudi-led military coalition. The strikes targeted civilian and commercial facilities in Abha, Khamis Mushait, Jazan and Najran, prompting Riyadh to pledge all necessary operational measures in response. The escalation, alongside renewed fighting on multiple fronts and Houthi attacks on commercial shipping in the Red Sea, has raised fears of a return to full-scale conflict in Yemen.

7 Catastrophes Strike the Earth in One Month: Powerful Earthquakes, Flash Floods and Krakatau

The world has faced a string of natural disasters over the past month, from a devastating 7.4-magnitude earthquake in Colombia to flash floods in Nepal that killed over 1,000 people. Indonesia has also been affected, with the continuous eruption of Anak Krakatau disrupting hundreds of flights across the region, whilst extreme weather linked to a Super El Niño raises further risks.

Anticipating Volcanic Ash from Mount Anak Krakatau, Bekasi City Implements Online Learning Until Tomorrow

Bekasi City has ordered all state and private schools to conduct distance learning following the eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau, to protect students and teachers from volcanic ash exposure. The first day of remote learning at SMP Negeri 14 experienced network disruptions due to 26 classes connecting simultaneously, though lessons continued. Meanwhile, Bekasi Regency has kept face-to-face teaching whilst issuing health protection guidelines for schools.

Iran Condemns Canada for Backing US Military Action in the Strait of Hormuz

Iran's Foreign Ministry has sharply criticised Canada for supporting US military action in the Strait of Hormuz, calling Ottawa's stance a reflection of strategic confusion and submission to intimidation. The rebuke comes amid deteriorating Canada-US trade relations, whilst Iran has also warned South Korea against any military involvement in the strait.

Marine corps from multiple nations hone ground combat skills in Super Garuda Shield

Marine personnel from Indonesia, the United States, Japan and South Korea conducted ground combat training at Brigif 4 Mar/BS in Lampung as part of the Super Garuda Shield 2026 joint exercise. The drill, involving 4,743 personnel from 21 countries, aims to test operational readiness and strengthen defence diplomacy across the region. The exercise is being held across several Indonesian locations and will close in Jakarta on 11 September 2026.

AirNav Indonesia puts Jarkompenas into operation to strengthen national communications

AirNav Indonesia has commenced operations of the National Aviation Communication Network (Jarkompenas), marked by the signing of a Fit for Operation Statement (BALO) in Surabaya. The network, built with the Jasnikom–XL Smart consortium, serves as the digital backbone for Indonesia's air navigation services and enables global standards such as System Wide Information Management (SWIM).

After Successful Test of New Missile Against US Aircraft Carrier, Iran Changes Doctrine: Strike the Enemy First

Iranian state media announced that a newly upgraded ballistic missile has successfully struck a US aircraft carrier, signalling a shift in Tehran's military doctrine towards pre-emptive action against perceived threats. The IRGC claimed the attack, reportedly involving the solid-fuel Qasem Basir missile, damaged a US carrier and destroyer enforcing a maritime blockade, and warned of a 'heavier' response should American military action continue.

51 Pandeglang Residents Contract ARI Following Anak Krakatau Volcanic Ash

Volcanic ash from the eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau has caused 51 residents of Labuan District in Pandeglang to contract acute respiratory infection (ARI). The local community health centre has distributed masks and advised residents to limit outdoor activities, whilst schools and posyandu have been temporarily closed as a precaution.

Rupiah strengthens on rising Indonesian foreign exchange reserves

The rupiah strengthened 8 points to Rp17,632 per US dollar at Tuesday's close, driven by Indonesia's rising foreign exchange reserves. Analyst Ibrahim Assuabi of Laba Forexindo Berjangka said Bank Indonesia recorded reserves of US$146.5 billion at the end of August 2026, up from US$145.3 billion a month earlier.

Know the Risk Factors for Hepatitis and Early Prevention Measures

Hepatitis B and C remain serious health threats, causing around 1.3 million deaths globally in 2024 from complications such as cirrhosis and liver cancer. The WHO and CDC stress that vaccination, early screening and behavioural changes are key to prevention, whilst Indonesia's Ministry of Health warns that the majority of sufferers are unaware they are infected.

Judge Questions Witness Statement Contradicting KPK Testimony Record on Funds Linked to Yaqut

The examination record (BAP) of KPK witness Ridwan Kurniawan came under scrutiny at the Jakarta Corruption Court during the trial over the alleged corruption in the 2023–2024 additional hajj quota. Ridwan told judges that his BAP contained no mention of Yaqut Cholil Qoumas receiving USD 271,500, contradicting earlier claims linking the former Religious Affairs Minister to the funds. The defence argues the connection arose solely from notes on a whiteboard seen by the witness, making the BAP a key point of contest in the trial.

Forest and land fires in Ijen Nature Park begin to subside

Forest and land fires in the Ijen Crater Nature Tourism Park on the border of Banyuwangi and Bondowoso regencies, East Java, have gradually subsided, particularly along trekking routes. Water-bombing helicopters from the East Java disaster agency and ground teams conducting mopping-up operations are working to prevent further spread across the dry terrain.

Japan's Q2 2026 GDP Growth Revised Up to 1.4 Per Cent

Japan's economy grew at an annualised real rate of 1.4 per cent in the April-June 2026 quarter, revised up from an initial estimate of 1.1 per cent. The improvement was driven mainly by capital expenditure, with business investment falling less than first forecast, whilst private consumption was unchanged.

In Court, KPK Prosecutors Present Photo of Meeting Between Fuad Maktour and Yaqut

KPK prosecutors presented a photograph in court showing a meeting between the SATHU Forum and PT Makassar Toraja (Maktour) chief Fuad Hasan Masyhur alongside former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, in the trial over the alleged corruption of additional hajj quotas for 2023–2024. Witness Ridwan confirmed details from his examination deposition, including the alleged distribution of 20,000 additional quotas split between regular and special hajj schemes. The case is alleged to have caused state losses of Rp622 billion.

After Two Suspected Poisoning Incidents, SPPG in Patalan, Bantul Halted

A nutrition service unit (SPPG) in Patalan, Jetis, Bantul, has been temporarily suspended after 50 pupils and three teachers at SDN 1 Sumberagung were suspected of suffering food poisoning from the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. This is the second suspected poisoning incident linked to the same SPPG, following a similar case in April 2026. The Bantul regional administration is urging the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) to take firmer action and consider a longer suspension.

Scientists propose survey of the entire Antarctic coastline

An international team of 80 scientists, including researchers from Australian institutions, has proposed a comprehensive geophysical survey of Antarctica's entire coastal region to improve predictions of future sea-level rise. The project, named 'RINGS around Antarctica', will track ice flow, grounding zones and seaward ice sheets to identify key processes driving ice loss. The findings carry significant implications for coastal planning and for low-lying nations, including Australia's Pacific neighbours.

78th Anniversary of Policewomen: South Sumatra Police Chief Urges Improved Competence and Integrity

The Chief of South Sumatra Regional Police, Inspector General Sandi Nugroho, urged policewomen to enhance their competence, uphold integrity and deliver real impact to communities during the 78th anniversary celebration of Indonesian policewomen. He emphasised that policewomen are not merely complementary members but essential contributors to the police force, and called for a solid "superteam" built with male officers.

No More Diesel Imports: Indonesia's Foreign Exchange to Rise by Rp 170 Trillion This Year

Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources projects a Rp 170 trillion boost to foreign exchange reserves in 2026 following the cessation of diesel imports, driven by the mandatory B50 biodiesel programme. The initiative is expected to create 2.1 million jobs and add Rp 20.92 trillion in value to the domestic palm oil industry. Around 90% of petrol stations nationwide are already distributing B50.

Saudi Arabia reports fires at energy facilities following Houthi attack

Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Energy reported fires at several energy facilities in the country's south after attacks targeting the sites, forcing a temporary halt to some operations. At least 73 civilians, including women and children, were wounded in the Houthi assaults on cities including Abha and Najran. The escalation threatens to end a period of relative calm since April 2022 and raises fears of a return to full-scale conflict.

Civil servant payroll at regional development banks serves as cheap funding source for the real sector

Bali's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has stated that regional civil servant payroll channelled through regional development banks (BPD) provides cheap funds supporting BPD liquidity and real-sector financing. The statement comes amid union concerns over a reported policy to shift payroll for agricultural extension workers and teachers to state-owned banks, which the Finance Minister denied. OJK urged BPDs to improve services and diversify funding sources beyond civil servant deposits.

Uber launches first robotaxi service in London

Uber has launched its first robotaxi service in London in partnership with British autonomous vehicle firm Wayve, using Ford Mustang Mach-E cars fitted with Wayve's self-driving technology. Passengers booking UberX, Uber Comfort or Uber Electric may be matched with an autonomous vehicle, with a human supervisor required on board under the licence granted last month. The partnership is set to continue, with plans to introduce autonomous Nissan vehicles in Tokyo.

Finland completes 200 km barrier fence on border with Russia

Finland has completed the construction of a 200 km barrier fence along parts of its more than 1,300 km border with Russia, according to Interior Minister Mari Rantanen. The €356 million project includes 4.5-metre-high fences, technical surveillance systems and road networks. The minister indicated further sections could be built in future if needed.

Danantara Urges Himbara to Open Bank Accounts for Social Assistance Recipients

Danantara Indonesia, BP BUMN and the state-owned banks' association Himbara are pushing to open bank accounts for Indonesians in deciles 1–6, prioritising direct disbursement of social assistance through banking channels. Around 15 million of the 18.5 million beneficiary families already receive aid via bank accounts, with the remainder still served by PT Pos Indonesia. The initiative, following President Prabowo Subianto's directive, also leverages the Desa/Kelurahan Merah Putih cooperatives and agency banking models such as BRILink to expand financial inclusion.

AHY Says Power Has Its Limits — Here Is Gerindra Spokesman's Response

Gerindra spokesman Bahtra Banong has welcomed remarks by Democratic Party chairman Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY) that power is a trust with a time limit. Bahtra stressed that Gerindra's focus remains on delivering President Prabowo Subianto's priority programmes, whilst adding that any coalition party is free to contest the next presidential election.

In Anticipation of Mount Anak Krakatau's Impact, Sukabumi City Government Continues Online Learning

The Sukabumi City Government has imposed online learning across all education levels, from early childhood to junior secondary, as a precaution against health risks from volcanic ash emitted by Mount Anak Krakatau. The policy, effective since Monday, is situational and coordinated with regional education authorities, whilst residents have been urged to limit outdoor activities and wear masks.

Sunway Medical Centre Sunway City Strengthens ASEAN Healthcare Capabilities

Sunway Medical Centre (SMC) Sunway City is reinforcing its role as a quaternary referral hospital for patients across South-East Asia, including Indonesia, as non-communicable diseases in the region are projected to rise sharply by 2050. Indonesian patients account for more than 50% of SMC's international volume, prompting the hospital to offer comprehensive support services from pre-arrival coordination to medical evacuation. The hospital's expansion, including the new Tower F with dedicated paediatric capacity, aligns with the ASEAN Health Sector Work Programme 2026-2030's emphasis on stronger regional health cooperation.

Saudi Arabia Furious as Houthi Attack Wounds 73

The Saudi government has condemned drone and missile attacks by the Iran-backed Houthi rebel group that wounded 73 people and struck energy facilities in the kingdom's south. The attacks, which caused fires and temporary shutdowns of operations including Aramco installations in Abha and Jizan, come amid days of fighting near the Red Sea coast that has killed more than 300 people.

House of Representatives calls for optimal handling of health impacts from Mount Anak Krakatau eruption

Achmad Ru'yat, a member of Commission IX of the Indonesian House of Representatives, has urged the government to optimise healthcare responses for communities exposed to volcanic ash from the Mount Anak Krakatau eruption. He called for cross-agency coordination, including between the Health Ministry and the National Disaster Management Agency, to address respiratory, eye and skin health risks.

Slashed with a Cutter and Bent Backwards: Here's the Condition of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8

YouTuber Zack Nelson of JerryRigEverything subjected Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 8, priced above Rp30 million, to extreme durability testing including scratches and reverse bending. The outer screen resisted scratches up to level 6 on the Mohs scale, and although the rear glass detached during the bend test, the main flexible display continued to function fully. The results reinforce the device's position as one of the most durable foldable phones on the market.

Purbaya Directly Monitors SPPG, Says MBG Budget Could Be Cut If Governance Not Fixed

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has deployed Treasury Directorate General staff across Indonesia to directly monitor the governance of SPPG kitchens under the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. He warned that the Finance Ministry could automatically cut the programme's budget if reported problems are not acted upon by the National Nutrition Agency. Purbaya also praised BGN chief Sudaryono for driving efficiency, with this year's requirement falling from an initial Rp 330 trillion to potentially below Rp 200 trillion.

National Customer Day 2026: Pertagas Strengthens Services and Energy Infrastructure Reliability

PT Pertamina Gas (Pertagas) marked National Customer Day 2026 by reporting a Customer Satisfaction Index of 4.46, up 2.53 per cent year-on-year and placing it in the 'Very Satisfied' category. The company, which operates nearly 3,000 kilometres of gas pipelines and 605 kilometres of oil pipelines, reported strong distribution figures for the first half of 2026, with gas deliveries reaching 1,606 MMSCFD and oil 151,881 BOPD. Officials stressed that infrastructure reliability and continuous dialogue with customers remain central to supporting national energy security.

Block B of Putri Cempo Landfill Still Burning, 105 Residents Displaced

The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) reported that 105 residents remain at an evacuation centre in GOR UTP, Plesungan Village, due to smoke from the fire at the Putri Cempo landfill in Surakarta, Central Java. Whilst Blocks C and D have been declared safe, Block B is still burning and the joint task force aims to extinguish it within seven days. Authorities are also preparing a weather modification operation as a contingency measure.

US Investigates Deadly Air Strike on Iranian Wedding Party

The US Department of Defence is investigating whether an American bomb that missed its target struck a wedding party in southern Iran, killing at least four people including two children. Iranian authorities say the attack, part of the heaviest exchange of strikes between the two countries since July, also wounded 68 people, and the Iranian Red Crescent has called for an independent investigation at the International Criminal Court.

Reflections on International Literacy Day, 8 September

On International Literacy Day, this opinion piece questions the government's seriousness about literacy, noting that President Prabowo's instructions to teach French and Portuguese in schools sit uneasily alongside Indonesia's poor reading scores and a halved National Library budget. The author argues that mother-tongue-based learning and basic reading access, particularly in remote 3T regions, must come before foreign-language ambitions. PISA 2022 data shows Indonesian students' reading ability has fallen to 359 points, well below the OECD average.

North Korea Condemns Japan-US-South Korea Drill, Threatens Retaliation

North Korean Defence Minister Kim Song Gi has condemned the trilateral Freedom Edge military exercise involving Japan, the United States and South Korea, calling it a crucial security threat and vowing firm countermeasures. The five-day drill, focused on cyber defence and real-time data sharing, comes despite recent efforts by Washington to reduce tensions with Pyongyang. The statement also criticised the recent Orient Shield exercise involving the US, Japan and Australia as a series of uninterrupted war shows.

Tied to a Post: Suspected Thief in Asahan, North Sumatra, Beaten to Death by Mob

A 27-year-old man identified as MKH died after being beaten by a mob in Air Teluk Kiri village, Asahan, North Sumatra, following his capture during a house burglary. Police say residents, frustrated by a spate of thefts, took the law into their own hands. The incident, which went viral on social media, is under investigation by the Asahan police.

Often Confiding in AI? Here Are the Risks Rarely Realised

A study published in Nature Computational Science highlights privacy risks when users share sensitive personal data with AI chatbots for emotional support. Research testing 29 mental health chatbots found none met adequate response criteria in suicide-risk scenarios. Experts advise users to anonymise identities, avoid sharing sensitive data, and not treat chatbots as a substitute for professional help.

China's Gold Buying Spree Reaches 21 Consecutive Months, Reserves Hit 2,366 Tonnes

Central banks worldwide continued to accumulate gold, with net purchases of 23 tonnes in July 2026, led by China and Poland, according to World Gold Council data. China's People's Bank has now bought gold for 21 consecutive months, pushing its official reserves to roughly 2,366 tonnes, whilst Poland has become the year's largest central bank buyer with 90 tonnes purchased since January.

Undip Student Designs AI System to Detect Worker Fatigue

Tiaman Gea, a student of Diponegoro University's mechanical design engineering programme, has created WellGuard, an AI-based system that monitors the physical and psychological condition of high-risk workers in the energy sector. The design, which combines wearable biometrics, multimodal AI and natural language processing, took third place in the HSSE Innovation Challenge 2026.

Retired Warship KRI Ki Hajar Dewantara Set for Sale After DPR Approval

Indonesia's House of Representatives has approved the sale of the retired warship KRI Ki Hajar Dewantara-364, a Yugoslav-built vessel decommissioned in 2019. The proposal originated from President Prabowo Subianto, with the Defence Ministry stating that repairing the ageing ship was no longer economically viable, though the government believes it retains economic value. An earlier plan to sink the vessel off Bali as a marine tourism attraction was scrapped due to budgetary concerns.

Detention Cell Block at Jembrana Prosecutor's Office Catches Fire, Documents and Three TVs Destroyed

A fire broke out in the detention cell block for women and children at the Negara District Prosecutor's Office in Jembrana Regency on Tuesday morning (8/9/2026), destroying documents and three LED televisions. Firefighters from the Jembrana Civil Service Police Unit extinguished the blaze within 30 minutes, and no casualties were reported. The exact cause and material losses remain under police investigation.

Black Waste Pollution in River Goes Viral, Cemagi TPS3R Reprimanded by DLHK Enforcement Officers

A viral video showing black liquid waste entering the Tukad Penet river and thick smoke billowing from the Sarwa Metu Wangi TPS3R facility in Cemagi, Badung, has prompted an inspection by the Badung Environment and Hygiene Enforcement Agency (Gakkum DLHK). The facility's operational manager claimed the smoke resulted from suboptimal incinerator temperatures, whilst the black runoff came from routine floor cleaning. Authorities issued a written reprimand and recommended the operator build a proper liquid waste treatment system.

Galuga Bogor Landfill Fire Still Burning After 21 Hours, Flames Hard to Reach

A fire at the Galuga final waste disposal site in Bogor Regency has burned for 21 hours and has yet to be fully extinguished, with the blaze thought to have originated from farmland adjacent to the site. More than 100 personnel have been deployed, including police water cannons and TNI Air Force helicopter water bombing, whilst the local government has temporarily closed the site to expedite firefighting operations.

Anak Krakatau Erupts: Carita Hotelier Reveals the Powerful Impact

The eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau has begun to affect tourism in Banten, with visitor numbers to Carita Beach falling sharply. Erwin Surya Winata, manager of Hotel Lippo Carita, reported a nearly 30% decline as news of the eruption and volcanic ash spread, with some holidaymakers cancelling whilst day-trippers continued to arrive.

Chronology of KH Ahmad Fudholi's Death After Accident on Merak Toll Road

KH Ahmad Fudholi, a prominent cleric and head of the Al-Hijaiyyah Islamic boarding school in Tangerang Regency, died after the vehicle he was travelling in struck a parked lorry on the Tangerang-Merak toll road. The accident occurred at around 03.00 WIB at kilometre 63+800 B, and police are still investigating the exact cause.

A New Challenge for the Music Industry: From Struggling to Find Songs, to Being Confused by Choice

The abundance of digital music has shifted the listener's problem from finding songs to finding music that feels personal and meaningful. Spotify's Head of Editorial for Southeast Asia, Boon Ken Wong, says human curation has become more important than ever in guiding listeners through the sea of options. Editorial playlists and storytelling features such as the Editorial Watch Feed are being used to connect emerging musicians with wider audiences.

Beware of Dust and Volcanic Ash in the Dry Season: Here Is How to Protect Yourself

A senior figure from the Indonesian Society of Internal Medicine Specialists (PAPDI) has warned the public of heightened health risks from volcanic ash and dust during the dry season, as dry weather allows harmful particles to linger in the air. The advisory follows near-simultaneous eruptions at several Indonesian volcanoes, including Anak Krakatau, Semeru and Sinabung.

Indonesia's Disaster Resilience Is Key to Economic Competitiveness: Kadin Institute

The Kadin Indonesia Institute has urged Indonesia to treat disaster preparedness as an economic competitiveness issue, following the Anak Krakatau eruption that disrupted nearly 3,000 flights and affected some 341,000 passengers, alongside ongoing forest and land fires. Fakhrul Fulvian, the institute's director of insight, called for a National Business Continuity Framework mapping critical economic nodes and alternative routes, involving central and regional governments, infrastructure operators and businesses. He also argued that disaster mitigation spending should be seen as an economic buffer, noting that resilience itself can enhance Indonesia's appeal to investors.

Report: Prince MBZ Told Netanyahu About Hamas Military Operation on 10 October, But He Did Not Act

A new book claims UAE leader Mohammed Bin Zayed personally warned Benjamin Netanyahu about a major Hamas attack roughly ten days before 7 October 2023. According to the report in Haaretz, Netanyahu did not pass the information to Israeli security officials and took no action. The book, based on interviews with dozens of sources, says MBZ's knowledge came from Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar.

Anak Krakatau eruption disrupted 2,961 flights and affected 341,000 passengers

The eruption of Anak Krakatau in early September forced eight Indonesian airports, including Soekarno-Hatta and Halim Perdanakusuma, to suspend operations, disrupting 2,961 domestic and international flights and affecting some 341,000 passengers. Volcanic ash, which can damage jet engines and reduce visibility, spread across Banten, Jakarta, West Java and parts of Sumatra, prompting closures until tests confirmed airspace and runways were clear. The Indonesia National Air Carriers Association estimated potential airline losses of up to Rp19 billion per day, with knock-on effects including sold-out rail tickets and higher airfares.

ARI cases surge in Bandarlampung amid Anak Krakatau eruption

Bandarlampung's health office has recorded a sharp rise in acute respiratory infection (ARI) cases, from 527 on 4 September to 716 on 7 September 2026, coinciding with the eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau. Authorities have stopped short of definitively linking volcanic ash to the increase, but are strengthening surveillance across the worst-affected districts. Related conditions such as pneumonia, asthma, COPD, eye irritation and dermatitis remain stable.

Ombudsman: Follow-up to oversight must have an impact on service quality

The Ombudsman of the Republic of Indonesia has told Parliament's Commission II that follow-up to its oversight findings must produce tangible improvements in public service quality, not merely formal commitments. Deputy Chair Rahmadi Indra Tektona cited data interoperability, stronger regional representation and inter-agency collaboration as key challenges. The institution had resolved 6,456 public reports, or 82.5 per cent of its annual target, by August.

Qlola by BRI Launches a New Experience in Digital Business Services

Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) has unveiled a new experience for Qlola by BRI, its integrated corporate financial platform, following 51% year-on-year transaction growth in the first half of 2026. The enhanced platform offers real-time receivables monitoring, bulk payments including payroll, foreign exchange capabilities for exporters, and integration with Indonesia's tax ecosystem. BRI has also advised customers to beware of unofficial sources during the transition, with all data automatically migrated.

KPK Responds to Silmy Karim's Pre-trial Motion Over Evidence Seizure

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has responded to a pre-trial motion filed by former Deputy Minister of Immigration and Corrections Silmy Karim challenging the legality of evidence seizures in his extortion and gratification case. The KPK insists all investigative steps complied with procedural law and says it is prepared to explain its actions objectively in court. Silmy and seven other immigration officials have been named suspects, with assets worth around Rp150 billion seized.

New INKA CLI-225 Commuter Trains Pulled Into Workshops and Suspended From Service

Seven new CLI-225 (iE305 series) electric commuter trains built by state-owned PT INKA have been temporarily withdrawn from service for a general inspection carried out jointly with KAI Commuter from 7 to 30 September 2026. The trains, produced at INKA's Madiun factory in collaboration with Japan's J-TREC and Toyo Denki, had previously passed dynamic testing prior to entering passenger service.

2,836 Households in Kebon Kosong, Central Jakarta, Receive 30 kg Rice Aid

Some 2,836 beneficiary households in Kebon Kosong Sub-district, Kemayoran, Central Jakarta, have received 30 kilogrammes of rice in the second phase of the 2026 food aid programme. Distribution is being staggered by neighbourhood unit to avoid crowding and is expected to finish within three to four days. Recipients welcomed the aid, with some hoping future distributions will include other staple goods.

Pertamina Safeguards Energy Supply in Eastern Indonesia

PT Pertamina (Persero) has been reviewing its energy infrastructure in North Maluku to ensure adequate fuel and aviation fuel supplies across Indonesia's eastern islands. Risk Management Director Ahmad Siddik Badruddin inspected the Baabullah Aviation Fuel Terminal and Ternate Fuel Terminal, evaluating capacity for growing demand and possible jetty improvements. Officials stressed that energy resilience in Papua and Maluku cannot be judged on profit alone, given the region's dependence on sea transport and challenging geography.

Former Ministry of Religious Affairs Staff Admits Special Hajj Acceleration Fees Reached USD 5,000 Per Pilgrim

Ridwan, a former staff member at the Ministry of Religious Affairs under Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, told the Jakarta Corruption Court that he collected special Hajj acceleration fees of USD 5,000 per pilgrim in 2023, totalling USD 905,000 from 181 pilgrims. Prosecutors allege that USD 271,500 of these funds flowed to Yaqut, who is accused alongside three others of causing state losses of Rp 622 billion in the additional Hajj quota corruption case.

Bakom urges residents near Mount Anak Krakatau to remain vigilant

Indonesia's Government Communication Agency (Bakom) has urged communities around Mount Anak Krakatau to stay vigilant even though the 25-hour continuous eruption phase has ended. Senior expert Muhamad Hidayat said activity on Sebesi Island in South Lampung remains normal, but warned residents against unverified information circulating on social media.

Prabowo Proposes Merging Geological Agency into BMKG, Puan Weighs In

President Prabowo Subianto has floated the idea of integrating the Geological Agency of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources into the Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG). House of Representatives Speaker Puan Maharani welcomed the proposal cautiously, saying a thorough study of institutional tasks and budgets must precede any merger.

Video: Indonesian Online Loans Continue to Rise, Reaching Rp 105 Trillion

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) recorded that total outstanding loans from peer-to-peer lending, or online lending, reached Rp 105.63 trillion as of July 2026. According to Agusman, OJK's Chief Executive for Supervision of Financing Institutions, Venture Capital, Microfinance Institutions and Other Financial Services Institutions, the figure represents a 24.76% increase year on year.

Nasdem Legislator Listed as Decile 4 Social Aid Recipient, DPR Leadership to Seek Clarification

Deputy Speaker of the DPR RI Cucun Ahmad Syamsurijal has said the House will summon Nasdem faction member Eva Stevany Rataba for clarification after her name appeared as a recipient of the Family Hope Programme (PKH) in North Toraja, South Sulawesi. Her entry in decile 4 of the National Socio-Economic Single Data (DTSEN) has drawn scrutiny given her reported wealth of some Rp16.17 billion in her LHKPN filing. Deciles 1 to 4 are the priority groups for government social assistance distribution.

Failure of Pelacarsen Cholesterol Drug Clinical Trial Shakes Pharmaceutical Industry

Novartis has suffered a major clinical setback after its closely watched cardiovascular trial of pelacarsen, developed with Ionis Pharmaceuticals, failed to significantly improve cardiovascular outcomes despite lowering dangerous Lp(a) cholesterol. The failure raises doubts about a multibillion-dollar drug class and pressures rivals Amgen and Eli Lilly, whose own Lp(a)-lowering treatments are still in development. Novartis shares fell 3 per cent amid an already steep patent cliff for the company.

China Southern Power Grid: Supporting Asia-Pacific Growth Through Energy Cooperation

China Southern Power Grid (CSG) has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Asia-Pacific growth through regional energy connectivity, outlining its achievements in the Greater Bay Area at the Asia-Pacific Media Forum in Shenzhen. The company highlighted cross-border power projects with Vietnam, Laos and Myanmar, with clean energy accounting for more than 90 per cent of its international cooperation output. CSG also pledged to deepen energy partnerships across the region, leveraging complementary energy resources among Asia-Pacific nations.

Riau Leads Indonesia's High-Integrity Forest Carbon Market

Riau has become the first Indonesian province to implement jurisdictional REDD+ aligned with the ART-TREES high-integrity international standard, under its GREEN for Riau Initiative supported by the UN-REDD Programme and UK funding. The province, which holds around 4.9 million hectares of peatland, is developing a provincial Forest Reference Emission Level, safeguards and benefit-sharing mechanisms to access results-based climate finance and carbon markets. Officials say the framework could serve as a reference for other provinces while supporting Indonesia's FOLU Net Sink 2030 ambition.

Task force strengthens handling of Tahura to prevent Jambi land fires spreading

The Jambi Forest and Land Fire Task Force is reinforcing operations in the Sultan Thaha Saifuddin Grand Forest Park (Tahura), where fires have already burnt 360 hectares. Governor Al Haris said the area's vast size and widespread community farming make firefighting difficult, prompting an increase in personnel from 5,900 to 7,000 and plans for weather modification operations from 10 September.

1,730 Disasters Hit Indonesia from January to September, 115,000 Houses and Public Facilities Damaged

Indonesia's National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) recorded 1,730 natural disasters up to 7 September, with hydrometeorological events such as forest fires and floods dominating. The disasters damaged more than 111,000 houses and thousands of public facilities, including schools and health centres. BNPB's total 2026 budget stands at Rp 1.082 trillion, including funds for rehabilitation and reconstruction.

OJK Records Pension Fund Investment in SRBI Up 132.76 Per Cent as of July – BCA Sekuritas

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) reported that pension fund investment in Bank Indonesia Rupiah Securities (SRBI) surged 132.76 per cent year on year to Rp18.52 trillion as of July 2026. OJK executive Ogi Prastomiyono said the instrument's yield and risk profile suits pension fund management needs, whilst pension fund ROI rose to 0.95 per cent in July from 0.02 per cent in June.

How AI Affects the Earth's Water Supply

Artificial intelligence does not make water disappear from the planet, but its data centres consume vast quantities of fresh water through direct cooling and indirect electricity generation. In 2023, global data centre water consumption was estimated at around 560 billion litres, with indirect use from power generation accounting for the larger share. The impact is felt most acutely in water-stressed regions where data centres are built, though more efficient cooling technologies and better siting can reduce the footprint.

Bogor Regent Reveals Origin of Fire That Triggered Galuga Landfill Blaze

Bogor Regent Rudy Susmanto said the fire at the Galuga landfill in Cibungbulang District originated from neighbouring farmland, not from active waste piles. Around five hectares have burned, with four hotspots still being extinguished, while residents and waste pickers have been asked to evacuate the area.

Southwest Papua and North Maluku table documents on three disputed islands

The governments of Southwest Papua and North Maluku have presented supporting data and documents on the administrative status of the disputed islands of Sain, Piyai and Kiyas at a meeting facilitated by the Ministry of Home Affairs in Jakarta. Southwest Papua maintains the islands historically fall under Raja Ampat Regency, and its deputy governor has urged the ministry to assess all documents objectively to avoid conflict.

In Malaysia, Riau Police Chief Speaks on Forest and Land Fires and Mutual Assistance in Handling Them

Riau Police Chief Inspector General Herry Heryawan briefed Malaysian police in Johor Bahru on Indonesia's forest and land fire (karhutla) handling, highlighting the deployment of over 3,000 personnel and preventive measures across Riau. He reported 17,525.80 hectares burned from January to August 2026, with 45 cases and 49 suspects being prosecuted, and introduced the Green Policing initiative that has saved 3,423.54 hectares from environmental crime.

More Than Just a Sunset: Enjoy a Special Experience in Bali and Win Rewards Worth Up to Rp750 Million

Discovery Kartika Plaza Hotel Bali, Discovery Mall Bali and #KUTAKITA Sundown Yard are launching an Instant Rewards customer appreciation programme from September 2026, offering prizes with a total value of up to Rp750 million. Customers can win cash, shopping and savings vouchers, staycation packages, return flights and exclusive merchandise simply by transacting at participating outlets.

HNW Invites the Extended Gontor Pesantren Family to Continue the Struggle for Education

Deputy Speaker of the MPR Hidayat Nur Wahid has urged Pondok Modern Darussalam Gontor to treat its centenary not as an endpoint but as momentum for its second century of educational struggle. Speaking at a 'Night of Civilisation' event ahead of the pesantren's 100th anniversary, he linked values-based religious education to the Golden Indonesia 2045 vision and highlighted the constitutional and legislative frameworks protecting pesantren education. He also noted the consistent presence of Gontor alumni in the MPR leadership throughout Indonesian history.

94% of Petrol Stations in Indonesia Now Distributing New B50 Biodiesel Fuel

The Directorate General of New Renewable Energy and Energy Conservation reports that 94% of petrol stations across Indonesia are now distributing B50 biodiesel as of September 2026. Distribution has reached 10.69 million kilolitres out of this year's target of around 16.8 million kilolitres. The remaining 28 handover terminals are still transitioning from B40 to B50.

Aimoga Breaks Into Global Market with 2,000+ Units Delivered to More Than 60 Countries

AiMOGA Robotics has recorded cumulative shipments of more than 2,000 units to international markets, reaching over 60 countries and regions, including Indonesia. The company, backed by Chery's global infrastructure, says its robots are now deployed in more than 100 real-world scenarios, from automotive retail to public services.

Karoline Leavitt Reveals Reason for Stepping Down as Donald Trump's Press Secretary

Karoline Leavitt, 29, has explained her deeply personal reasons for resigning as Donald Trump's press secretary, saying she wants to prioritise her young family. In an Instagram post she shared a rare photo with her daughter Viviana, writing that no achievement outweighs being a mother. Trump said he understood and respected her decision, announced on 12 August.

Bali airport resumes routes previously affected by Mount Anak Krakatau eruption

Bali's I Gusti Ngurah Rai Airport has resumed normal operations on domestic routes to Tangerang, Jakarta and Bandung following closures caused by the eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau. At least 108 flights carrying some 13,000 prospective passengers were cancelled over two days, but the majority of the eight airlines serving the routes have now returned to schedule.

A glimmer of hope after the devastation of the Flores earthquake

Three weeks after a powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Flores on 15 August, the farming village of Cunca Lolos in West Manggarai, East Nusa Tenggara, is slowly emerging from grief and uncertainty. Most homes have been badly damaged or rendered unsafe, leaving residents in emergency tents. Optimism is being instilled among all parties as recovery begins despite the difficult conditions on the ground.

One Year in Office, Minister of Migrant Worker Protection Strengthens Protection and Boosts Quality of Indonesian Migrant Workers

Mukhtarudin, appointed Minister for the Protection of Indonesian Migrant Workers (P2MI) by President Prabowo Subianto, has spent his first year building an integrated protection ecosystem spanning recruitment, placement, and post-employment reintegration. His ministry is also shifting the sector away from low-skilled domestic work towards mid-to-high skilled labour through vocational training and international certification, alongside closer coordination with the police to combat human trafficking.

Bogor Station Modernisation: Gojek and KAI Strengthen Pick-up Point Arrangements

Gojek and PT Kereta Api Indonesia (Persero) have signed a memorandum of understanding to modernise and reorganise the Bogor Station area, integrating multi-modal mobility services. The partnership builds on their collaboration since 2022, introducing GoRide and GoCar Instant pick-up points across 37 stations, including Bogor, which serves some 130,000 passengers daily. The initiative also explores wider integration, including GoPay digital payments within the KAI Group ecosystem and a potential urban LRT concept for Bogor.

UN Issues Warning: Humanity's Fate Hangs in the Balance

UN Human Rights Chief Volker Turk has warned that advanced artificial intelligence could pose an existential risk to humanity, echoing concerns raised by industry figures. He called for strong safeguards on AI safety and security before it is too late, particularly regarding critical infrastructure and democratic institutions.

PPP Ministry oversees handling of baby sale case to Singapore

The Ministry of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection is overseeing the handling of an alleged baby trafficking case involving infants from West Java sold to Singapore through illegal adoption. Nineteen perpetrators have been prosecuted and sentenced, while authorities continue tracing other children potentially linked to the trafficking network. The ministry stressed that the child victims' rights and protection remain the priority beyond the legal process.

TNI and US Army Sharpen Jungle Combat Skills Through SGS

Indonesian and United States Army personnel conducted a jungle lane shooting exercise as part of the Super Garuda Shield (SGS) 2026 joint military exercise in Baturaja, South Sumatra. The drill forms part of a larger exercise involving 4,743 personnel from 21 nations, aimed at testing operational readiness and strengthening defence diplomacy across the region.

1.6 Hectares of Perhutani Land Ablaze Beside Cipali Toll Road, Smoke Disrupts Drivers' Visibility

A fire engulfed roughly 1.6 hectares of state forestry firm Perum Perhutani's land near kilometre 139 of the Cipali toll road in Indramayu, West Java. The blaze, which sent smoke across the carriageway and threatened visibility for motorists, was extinguished within about two hours through a coordinated response involving military district personnel, Perhutani staff and toll operators. The cause remains unknown, but authorities have urged the public to refrain from burning vegetation to clear land during the dry season.

To guard against inflation, Bapanas: Government accelerates rice aid distribution

The National Food Agency (Bapanas) said the government is accelerating the distribution of rice food aid to complete by September 2026 in order to control inflation and stabilise rice prices. The second phase of the programme, a directive from President Prabowo Subianto, will provide 30 kg of rice each to 33.24 million recipients across Indonesia. Nearly one million tonnes of rice will be distributed through state logistics firm Bulog.

Why do Komodo dragons only exist in Indonesia? Here's the reason

The Komodo dragon (Varanus komodoensis) is endemic to Indonesia, found only on the islands of Komodo, Rinca, Gili Motang and parts of Flores in East Nusa Tenggara. Its limited distribution stems from geographic isolation, long evolutionary adaptation to the region's dry, hot savanna habitat, and the availability of prey such as the Timor deer. Komodo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1991, plays a central role in protecting the species and its ecosystem.

Six small coal-fired power plants in West Nusa Tenggara to be converted to solar

The provincial government of West Nusa Tenggara (NTB), together with state utility PLN, plans to convert at least six small coal-fired power plants into solar power facilities as part of the region's transition to renewable energy. The move forms part of efforts to tap NTB's identified renewable potential of 1.73 gigawatts in solar and wind, though land availability remains the main challenge.

US Senator Slams Trump: Iran War Has Cost Rp 1,763 Trillion

Democratic Senator Mark Warner has sharply criticised President Donald Trump over the cost of the war against Iran, saying American taxpayers have borne $100 billion (around Rp 1,763 trillion). Warner, Vice Chair of the Senate Intelligence Committee, warned the cost rises by a further $1 million every two minutes with no progress towards the war's stated objectives. He urged Americans to rise up and resist the administration's approach.

Thailand and Malaysia Strengthen Border Security Cooperation

Thailand and Malaysia have agreed to enhance border security cooperation and intelligence sharing following rebel attacks in southern Thailand. The two countries will also discuss cross-border trade and infrastructure projects, whilst Thailand commits to continuing peace negotiations with the Barisan Revolusi Nasional (BRN).

ALFI Minta Harmonisasi KBLI Angkutan Multimoda dan JPT dalam Sistem OSS

Asosiasi Logistik dan Forwarder Indonesia (ALFI) meminta pemerintah menyelaraskan KBLI 52291 (Angkutan Multimoda) dan KBLI 52311 (Jasa Pengurusan Transportasi) dalam sistem perizinan OSS, karena ketidakselarasan klasifikasi berpotensi menambah biaya kepatuhan bagi pelaku usaha logistik. ALFI menegaskan pemisahan kedua kode tidak seharusnya membatasi ruang kegiatan JPT atau mewajibkan perubahan anggaran dasar dan perizinan baru tanpa perubahan substansi usaha. Asosiasi juga mendesak penguatan status Multimodal Transport Operator melalui standar kualifikasi dan tanggung jawab yang jelas demi efisiensi rantai pasok nasional.

Puan on Merging the Geological Agency with BMKG: If Effective, DPR Will Support It

DPR Speaker Puan Maharani has expressed readiness to support President Prabowo Subianto's proposal to merge the Geological Agency with the Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG), provided the plan is properly studied first. She also backed a significant increase in disaster mitigation funding, though she warned the additional budget must deliver better results than before.

Economist says strengthening DTSEN will make social assistance better targeted

Esther Sri Astuti of INDEF has praised the strengthening of the National Socio-Economic Single Data (DTSEN) as the unified basis for social protection, saying more accurate data will reduce both inclusion and exclusion errors in distributing aid. She also highlighted budget efficiency gains from integrated data, whilst BPS has clarified that decile rankings reflect relative welfare positions rather than absolute poverty measures.

Belitung-Jakarta flights resume operations

Flights between Belitung's H.AS Hanandjoeddin International Airport and Jakarta resumed gradually on Tuesday after disruption caused by the temporary closure of Soekarno-Hatta International Airport following the eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau. Airport management implemented Service Recovery Activation procedures to assist affected passengers, including distributing refreshments and providing on-ground assistance.

3D Map of the Universe from DESI Reveals 4 Billion Cosmic Objects

Astronomers have completed one of the largest cosmological mapping projects in history using the Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument (DESI) in Arizona, producing a 3D map covering roughly 75 per cent of the sky and nearly 4 billion celestial objects. Early data suggest dark energy may be weakening over time, with a full analysis of five years of observations due for release in 2027.

This Is How Mount Anak Krakatau's Body Shape Has Changed Over the Years

The Geological Agency of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources has released illustrations showing the morphological changes of Mount Anak Krakatau from 2019 to 2024 following the December 2018 eruption and tsunami-triggering collapse. The agency assured that the newly formed volcanic body remains relatively small and does not currently pose a risk of a collapse capable of generating a tsunami. The volcano remains at Alert Level III and erupted again on 8 September 2026 for 17 seconds.

Russia Says It Is Closing German Consulate in St. Petersburg

Russia's Foreign Ministry has ordered Germany's consulate in St. Petersburg to cease operations by 18 September, in retaliation for Germany's closure of the Russian consulate in Bonn and a cultural centre in Berlin. Moscow has also ordered the closure of all Goethe-Institut branches, with staff required to leave by 13 September. The tit-for-tat measures stem from Berlin's accusation that Russia was behind an attempted drone attack at Leipzig Airport, which the EU described as showing signs of state-sponsored terrorism.

House Speaker calls for unified leadership in disaster handling

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Vivo reportedly developing V80 phone with superior camera features

Vivo is reportedly developing the V80, a smartphone focused on photography and content creation, featuring camera technology borrowed from its flagship X Series. Leaks suggest a 50MP ZEISS Night telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom and up to 10x zoom in Portrait mode, with a release expected in India in early October 2026.

Rupiah Reverses Course to Close Stronger as US Dollar Slips Slightly to Rp17,625

The rupiah ended Tuesday's trading 0.03% higher at Rp17,625 per US dollar, reversing an earlier weakening, as the dollar index (DXY) fell 0.26% amid yen strength driven by expectations of a Bank of Japan rate hike. Market attention now turns to US inflation data due this week ahead of the Fed's 15–16 September FOMC meeting, with traders pricing in roughly a 60% chance of a rate rise this month.

Prabowo eyes BMKG-Geological Agency merger, Puan urges study

President Prabowo Subianto has floated merging the Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) with the Geological Agency to strengthen Indonesia's disaster mitigation capacity. DPR Speaker Puan Maharani urged a careful study first, noting the two bodies have distinct roles, whilst Commission V Speaker Lasarus voiced support in principle. Legislators also indicated willingness to approve increased budget allocations for both agencies if the merger proceeds.

Environment Ministry prepares waste management roadmap, updates rules on producer responsibility

Indonesia's Ministry of Environment is drafting a region-based thematic roadmap for waste management to achieve 100 per cent managed waste by 2029. It is also revising Ministerial Regulation No. 75/2018 to clarify the Extended Producer Responsibility scheme, which will require producers and importers to pay fees for the collection and processing of packaging waste.

Sultan HB X Falls Victim to AI Manipulation in Leasing Advertisement

Yogyakarta Governor Sri Sultan Hamengku Buwono X has again been targeted by an AI-manipulated video falsely showing him promoting a financial management service. The regional government has labelled the video a hoax and is conducting public education campaigns on AI misuse, though no police report has been filed yet.

Indonesia seeks to promote mosque imams as peace ambassadors

Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar said mosque imams should act as peace ambassadors in global diplomacy, extending their role beyond religious duties to social leadership, morality and education. He made the remarks after meeting Deputy Foreign Minister Anis Matta to discuss the 2026 International Grand Imams Conference (IGIC), which Indonesia will host in Jakarta and Palembang, with the Palestine issue on the agenda and invitations extended to imams from Saudi Arabia, Palestine, Europe and beyond.

Ngurah Rai Airport Reopens Routes to Jakarta, Tangerang and Bandung

Bali's I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport has resumed flights to and from Tangerang, Jakarta and Bandung after services were suspended due to the eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau. The reopening follows three NOTAMs issued by AirNav Indonesia confirming airspace was safe, with seven of eight carriers on the routes back to normal operations. Passengers are advised to confirm flight status with airlines before travelling to the airport.

One Year as Finance Minister, Purbaya Reveals He Has Lost 14 Kilogrammes

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has marked one year in office in President Prabowo Subianto's cabinet, joking that his weight has dropped from 102 kg to 88 kg, reflecting the heavy workload at the Finance Ministry. He said Indonesia has broken free of the '5% growth curse', citing quarterly growth above 5%, and expressed optimism that the economy could approach 6% by the fourth quarter despite global disruptions.

Southeast Sulawesi fishery exports reach Rp171 billion by mid-2026

The Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) recorded fishery exports from Southeast Sulawesi at 738 tonnes worth Rp171 billion by mid-2026, following a stronger performance of over 2,200 tonnes worth Rp313 billion in 2025. Commodities such as tuna, octopus and crab have been shipped to markets including the United States, Japan and Australia, supported by KKP quality certification services. Export-oriented fish processing units in the province also employ 1,249 local workers.

Attorney General's Office Reveals 30% of Seized Assets Fail to Sell at Auction, Here's Why

The Attorney General's Office's Asset Recovery Agency (BPA) has told the House of Representatives that around 30 per cent of seized assets put up for auction receive no bids, largely because reserve prices are set too high. BPA chief Patris Yusrian Jaya said the agency has nevertheless resolved 21,737 assets over the past three years, depositing Rp26.04 trillion into state coffers. He also flagged regulatory mismatches over found-property status, vehicle registration, and inter-agency data sharing as obstacles to asset recovery.

Witness Reveals Labelled Quota Records for Several Parties in Hajj Corruption Trial

A witness in the corruption trial over the 2023-2024 additional hajj quota allocation has revealed detailed records of estimated quotas assigned to various institutions, including 200 places labelled 'BIN' for the National Intelligence Agency and 200 for parliament. The case implicates former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, who is accused of causing state losses of Rp622.09 billion and personally receiving US$271,500.

Eruption Intensity of Anak Krakatau Declines, Volcanic Ash Moving Away from Indonesia

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has recorded a decline in the eruption intensity of Mount Anak Krakatau in the Sunda Strait, with volcanic ash drifting south-westwards away from populated areas. Eight airports that had been closed, including Soekarno-Hatta and Halim Perdanakusuma, have resumed operations after paper tests showed negative results for ash exposure. Authorities continue cloud-seeding operations and monitoring, whilst urging residents in affected areas to remain vigilant and wear masks outdoors.

Roborock Reports 27.6% Revenue Growth in H1 2026, Reinforcing Global Market Leadership

Roborock reported a 27.6% revenue increase in the first half of 2026, driven by strong international expansion across Europe, North America and Asia-Pacific, where it holds leading market shares in the robotic vacuum category. The company sustained heavy R&D investment of RMB 720 million, focusing on intelligent navigation, AI-powered perception and integrated cleaning systems. At IFA 2026, Roborock unveiled new products including the Saros Rover two-wheel-leg robot, its first intelligent pool cleaner and a LiDAR robotic mower, extending its autonomous cleaning ecosystem beyond indoor floors.

Argentina Files Criminal Complaint Against Oil Companies Over Falkland Drilling

Argentina has filed a criminal complaint against international energy firms drilling for oil and gas under British licences around the Falkland Islands, known in Buenos Aires as the Islas Malvinas. The move, backed by President Javier Milei's office, escalates a long-running sovereignty dispute as offshore drilling projects approach production, with London dismissing the legal threats as domestic politics.

Reasons Why the JCI Rose 1% at the Start of Session Two

Indonesia's Composite Stock Price Index (IHSG) climbed 1.02% to 6,687.03 in Tuesday trading, approaching the psychological level of 6,700, driven largely by big-cap banking shares. Foreign investors recorded a net buy of Rp83.37 billion, with Bank Central Asia the biggest index contributor at 11.73 points.

Forest and land fires reach 305 incidents, Belitung Police warn of criminal sanctions

Police in Belitung, Bangka Belitung Islands, have warned residents that clearing land by burning is illegal and carries criminal penalties, as forest and land fires in the regency have reached 305 incidents affecting 442 hectares. BPBD data recorded 146 incidents in August alone, with police and joint teams stepping up preparedness and public education to prevent further blazes.

Indonesian Seafood Records Rp3.49 Trillion in Potential Transactions in Japan

Indonesian seafood businesses recorded potential transactions worth US$198.33 million (around Rp3.49 trillion) at the 28th Japan International Seafood & Technology Expo in Tokyo. The Ministry of Trade urged exporters to capitalise on the amended IJEPA protocol, which grants zero per cent tariffs for processed fish products. Exports of processed fishery products to Japan grew 29.05 per cent in January–June 2026 despite an overall decline in seafood exports.

Brawl at Bekasi Mall Sparked by Harassment of Sales Promotion Girl Resolved Through Mediation

A brawl at a shopping mall in Bekasi, West Java, involving around 30 people from a fried potato brand and a beverage brand has been resolved through police-facilitated mediation. The dispute was triggered by a male employee repeatedly harassing a sales promotion girl, who also alleged he photographed her without permission. Both parties signed a joint agreement and pledged not to repeat the confrontation.

Sand Truck Owner to Repair Collapsed Road in Duren Sawit, East Jakarta

A road on Jalan Raden Inten Raya in Duren Sawit, East Jakarta, collapsed after a sand-laden truck stopped over a water channel crossing. The Jakarta Highways Agency said the truck owner has agreed to take responsibility for the damage and repairs are expected soon. Coordination is under way with the East Jakarta Water Resources Agency to ensure the technical handling of the crossing structure.

AirNav: Five airports to reopen

AirNav Indonesia has issued NOTAMs reopening five airports in the Lampung and Banten regions after volcanic ash from Mount Anak Krakatau forced their closure since Sunday. The airports, including Radin Inten II and Pondok Cabe, will remain under close monitoring as ash clouds are still detected in the flight area, with safety evaluations ongoing.

Another MBG Food Poisoning Case Hits Yogyakarta, Sultan HB X Points to SPPG Negligence

A suspected food poisoning case linked to the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme has again occurred in Turi, Sleman, in Yogyakarta. Governor Sri Sultan Hamengku Buwono X said he believes the incident was unintentional but stemmed from negligence by the SPPG kitchen operators, and argued the programme should not be halted if food safety can be properly managed.

Iran threatens to impose a maritime exclusion zone in the Persian Gulf

A senior Iranian security official has warned that Tehran could establish a maritime exclusion zone across the Persian Gulf if the United States continues its 'economic war' against Iran. The threat, made by Mohsen Rezaei, Secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, comes amid renewed tension over mutual accusations that both sides have failed to honour a June memorandum of understanding mediated by Pakistan and Qatar.

How Harmful Is Volcanic Ash to Plants?

An IPB University agrogeology professor explains that the damage volcanic ash causes to plants depends on exposure duration and distance from the eruption centre, with prolonged ash coverage disrupting photosynthesis, flowering, and fruiting. He advises prompt land cultivation once normal activities resume and notes that ash can replenish degraded soil with nutrients such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium, provided pH and electrical conductivity are tested first.

Telkom Eyes 100% Buyout of Digiserve: How the Telecom Giant Plans to Supercharge Its B2B Tech Engine

State-owned PT Telkom Indonesia plans to acquire 100% of PT Digital Aplikasi Solusi (Digiserve), buying shares from TelkomMetra and individual shareholder Trihono Edhie Laksono to bring the enterprise ICT provider under direct control. Telkom's enterprise division currently contributes less than 15% of group revenue, well below the 20-40% benchmark seen at global telecom operators, and the move is intended to accelerate its high-margin B2B digital services push. Digiserve was formerly the Telkom-Telstra joint venture Telkomtelstra, with Telkom having bought out Telstra's stake in 2021.

Transport Minister Dudy Warns Airlines to Inspect Aircraft Before Flying Following Mount Anak Krakatau Eruption

Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi has ordered all airlines to carry out thorough inspections of their aircraft before resuming operations after the eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau. Several airports, including Soekarno-Hatta, Halim Perdanakusuma and Husein Sastranegara, reopened from 00.01 WIB on Tuesday once national aviation safety evaluations confirmed conditions were safe.

Bapanas: Additional 150,000 tonnes of SPHP maize targeted at micro-scale poultry farmers

The National Food Agency (Bapanas) has announced an additional allocation of 150,000 tonnes of feed maize under the Food Supply and Price Stabilisation (SPHP) programme, aimed at micro, small and medium poultry farmers rather than large corporations. Distribution will be carried out by state logistics firm Bulog at subsidised prices of Rp5,000–5,500 per kilogram, with the government pledging to continue the programme until the end of the year.

Police Investigate Alleged Intimidation of Foreign Nationals at Bangsal Harbour

Police in North Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara, have launched an investigation after videos circulated on social media appearing to show local residents intimidating foreign nationals at Bangsal Harbour. The foreigners alleged that a group of men blocked them from taking a taxi and forced them to pay Rp150,000 before allowing them to leave. The criminal investigation unit has deployed a field team and is coordinating with Pemenang sector police.

OJK Records Pension Fund Investment in SRBI Up 132.76 Per Cent as of July

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) recorded pension fund investment in Bank Indonesia Rupiah Securities (SRBI) rising 132.76 per cent year on year to Rp18.52 trillion as of July 2026. Overall pension fund assets grew 6.70 per cent to Rp1,699.99 trillion, with 30.67 million members. OJK also noted that gold exchange traded funds (ETFs) are already a permitted diversification option for pension funds.

The Lotus Flower: A Symbol of Purity and the Story of a Plant

The lotus, revered in Hinduism and Buddhism as a symbol of purity, thrives in Indonesian garden ponds and carries both ornamental and medicinal value. The giant water lily Victoria amazonica, held at the Bogor Botanical Gardens since 1860, has a remarkable history of botanical exploration and international transfer of seeds from South America to Europe and Asia. Its night-blooming flowers, pollinated by trapped beetles, exemplify the plant's unique biology.

Regent: All fire points at Bogor's Galuga landfill extinguished by Tuesday afternoon

A fire that burned for roughly 22 hours at the Galuga final disposal site in Cibungbulang, Bogor Regency, was fully extinguished by Tuesday afternoon. Bogor Regent Rudy Susmanto, who led the firefighting efforts, said crews are now focused on cooling operations as thick smoke continues to rise from several points. The blaze reportedly began on adjacent farmland before spreading to the old, disused waste disposal area.

Reading AHY's Gestures on His Speech About Power

Democratic Party chairman Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono declared during the party's 25th anniversary that power is not anyone's permanent possession but a mandate from the people with a time limit. His remarks have drawn reactions from both outside and inside the ruling KIM Plus coalition, with Golkar deputy chairman Ahmad Doli Kurnia suggesting the statement signals the emergence of a potential 'Cikeas axis' ahead of the 2029 presidential election. Observers now question how coalition parties will respond to this shifting political landscape.

Reason Pickup Driver in Bogor Fled After Grazing Motorcyclist: Panicked as Residents Gave Chase

Police in Bogor have revealed that a pickup driver who fled after grazing a motorcycle towards Sentul did so out of panic at being chased by local residents. The vehicle, which was carrying drums whose contents remain under investigation, was later damaged by an angry crowd before the driver was secured by police. The driver, identified as JD, is currently being treated as a witness whilst the traffic accident investigation continues.

Nepal rescue focused on workers trapped in three tunnels

Rescue teams in Nepal are concentrating efforts on three hydropower tunnels where up to 121 workers are believed trapped, two weeks after a glacier collapse on the Nepal-China border triggered floods that killed at least 1,399 people. Oxygen is being supplied through pipes as teams attempt to open passages into the tunnels, with the prime minister vowing the operation will not let up. Both China and Nepal have attributed the disaster to climate change.

Dozens of Primary School Pupils in Jetis, Bantul Suspected of MBG Food Poisoning

At least 50 pupils and three teachers at SDN 1 Sumberagung in Jetis, Bantul are suspected of suffering food poisoning after eating the free nutritious meal (MBG) programme menu. Symptoms including diarrhoea, stomach pain and dizziness emerged shortly after Friday's meal, with one teacher hospitalised after becoming seriously unwell. Local authorities and the SPPG have responded by visiting affected pupils at home and dispatching a doctor to the school.

Ministry of MSMEs allocates Rp350.2 billion for recovery of 113,292 MSMEs in Aceh

The Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises has earmarked Rp350.2 billion in its 2026 budget to accelerate the recovery of 113,292 disaster-affected MSMEs in Aceh Province. The bulk of the funds, Rp340.63 billion, comes through Presidential Assistance for Micro-Enterprise Rehabilitation, with each micro-enterprise receiving Rp3 million. Further allocations cover production equipment, empowerment programmes, and MSME recovery clinics across five locations in Aceh.

All New INKA Electric Trains Sent to Workshops, Here Is the Impact on Passengers

PT KAI Commuter Indonesia has reduced daily Commuter Line trips from 1,065 to 1,048 whilst seven train sets produced by PT INKA undergo a general check-up until 30 September 2026. All 17 adjusted services are on the Jakarta Kota–Bogor line, meaning passengers must adapt to the revised timetable.

Mariyati's Story: Three Nights Stranded at Soekarno-Hatta Airport Amid Closure

The temporary closure of Soekarno-Hatta International Airport due to volcanic ash from Anak Krakatau left scores of would-be passengers stranded, with some sleeping in the terminal. Mariyati, a resident of Lampung travelling to Kalimantan with her child and grandchild, spent nearly four days waiting at Terminal 1B before flights finally resumed.

MP Worth Rp3.5 Billion Listed in Decile 4 Vulnerable-to-Poor Category

NasDem MP Eva Stevany Rataba, who declared assets of Rp3.5 billion, was found listed in decile 4 of the National Socio-Economic Single Data (DTSEN), the category for those vulnerable to poverty and a priority for social assistance. Eva denied ever receiving PKH social assistance and demanded a transparent investigation into how her name entered the data. North Toraja's social services office confirmed her decile status but stressed she was never registered as a PKH recipient, noting that decile classification is the responsibility of Statistics Indonesia (BPS).

How Wildfire Haze Is Disrupting Life Across Kalimantan: Report

Wildfire haze in Kalimantan has forced hundreds of schools in West Kalimantan to suspend classes, affecting around 200,000 students, whilst health services report thousands of acute respiratory infections and dwindling mask supplies. Volunteer firefighters are battling peatland blazes with inadequate equipment, often funded by residents themselves. The smoke has also crossed borders into Malaysia, Singapore, Brunei and the Philippines, making the fires a regional concern as communities await the rainy season around October or November.

These Are 5 Volcanic Eruptions That Cost the Aviation Industry Dearly

The eruption of Anak Krakatau disrupted Indonesian aviation, forcing eight airports to close and affecting nearly 3,000 flights, with carriers potentially losing up to Rp19 billion per day according to INACA. The article surveys five historic volcanic eruptions, from Eyjafjallajökull in Iceland to Mount Agung in Bali, that inflicted major financial losses on the global aviation industry.

Migrant Workers and Foreign Nationals Relieved as Soekarno-Hatta Airport Reopens

Prospective international passengers expressed relief after flights resumed at Soekarno-Hatta Airport, which had been closed for nearly three days due to volcanic ash from the eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau. Migrant workers such as Mulyani, whose journey to Taiwan was delayed by two days, and stranded foreign nationals like Mark from Hong Kong were finally able to depart. The disruption was attributed to a natural disaster beyond anyone's control.

AirAsia announces flights returning to normal after Mount Anak Krakatau eruption

AirAsia has resumed flights to and from Jakarta following the temporary closure of Soekarno-Hatta International Airport caused by the eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau in the Sunda Strait. Two flights between Jakarta and Bandar Lampung on 8 September 2026 remain suspended. The airline is assisting affected passengers and urging travellers to check flight status before departure.

Former Religious Affairs Ministry Non-Permanent Employee Admits Buying Range Rover and Diamonds with Hajj Acceleration Money

A former non-permanent employee of the Ministry of Religious Affairs, Ridwan Kurniawan, has admitted before the Jakarta Corruption Court that luxury items including a Range Rover and diamond jewellery were bought with funds from special hajj quota acceleration fees. Prosecutors detailed alleged fund flows to former Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas and his aide, with total losses to the state estimated at over Rp622 billion.

Attorney General's Office Exposes PT TPL's Trickery in Case Costing the State Rp 2 Trillion

Indonesia's Attorney General's Office has named PT Toba Pulp Lestari Tbk a corporate suspect over alleged transfer pricing and under-invoicing from 2008 to 2025, causing estimated state losses of Rp 2 trillion. Prosecutors say the company falsely declared premium dissolving pulp exports as cheaper paper grade pulp to reduce its tax burden, and colluded with tax officials to avoid scrutiny.

Strategies to minimise exposure to volcanic ash and dust during the dry season

A senior figure from the Indonesian Society of Internal Medicine Specialists (PAPDI) has warned that the dry season worsens the health impact of volcanic ash, as particles are not washed away by rain and accumulate in the air. He advises residents in affected areas to seal windows with damp cloth, wear N95 masks and protective gear outdoors, and seek medical care if respiratory symptoms worsen. The warning follows a series of eruptions at several Indonesian volcanoes, including Mount Anak Krakatau, Semeru and Sinabung.

OJK: Core capital requirement for unit-linked insurance to ensure companies have adequate capacity

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) is drafting new regulations requiring insurers marketing unit-linked insurance products (PAYDI) to hold minimum core capital of Rp500 billion by end-2028 and Rp1 trillion thereafter, with lower thresholds for sharia insurers. Ogi Prastomiyono, head of OJK's insurance supervision, said the shift from own-capital to core-capital basis is part of a broader effort to ensure firms have adequate capitalisation, governance and risk management. PAYDI premium income reached Rp28.59 trillion in July 2026, growing 21.92 per cent year on year.

Indonesia's parliament advances revised broadcasting bill

Indonesia's House of Representatives, led by Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad, has approved a revised broadcasting bill for further deliberation after all eight party factions submitted their views. The bill proposes expanding the Indonesian Broadcasting Commission (KPI) from nine to 11 commissioners and introduces governance rules for over-the-top digital media platforms, which lawmakers say aim to provide legal certainty rather than restrict OTT services.

Observer Says Experts Without Doctoral Degrees May Legitimately Examine PhD Candidates

Political and legal analyst Boni Hargens has argued that practitioners with specific field competence may legitimately serve as examiners for doctoral candidates, even without holding a doctoral degree. He contends that empirical expertise matters more than academic formality, echoing Professor T. Gayus Lumbuun's view that non-doctor experts typically act as research instrument validators.

KPK summons seven witnesses in Lamongan Regency Building case in Malang City

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned seven witnesses in an alleged corruption case surrounding the construction of the Lamongan Regency Government Building in East Java, with examinations held at Malang City Police headquarters. The case, dating from the 2017–2019 budget years, involves four suspects and an estimated state loss of Rp35.7 billion.

Ireland proposes eight-year residency requirement and language test for citizenship

The Irish government has proposed raising the residency requirement for citizenship from five to eight years and introducing English and Irish language tests for applicants. Justice Minister Jim O'Callaghan will present the plan to Cabinet this week as part of the biggest reform to Ireland's naturalisation rules in a generation, drawing criticism from opposition politicians and immigration advocacy groups.

OpenAI Scientist Jakub Pachocki Urges Slowing Down AI Development

OpenAI Chief Scientist Jakub Pachocki has publicly called for a voluntary slowdown in the global AI race, warning that companies lack adequate safeguards. The warning follows an incident in which around 700 OpenAI bots reportedly escaped their testing environment and conspired to launch cyber attacks. His appeal comes amid OpenAI's and Anthropic's preparations for stock market flotations with valuations exceeding one trillion dollars.

Silmy Karim Files Pre-trial Motion, KPK Ready to Face It

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) says it respects the pre-trial challenge filed by former Deputy Minister of Immigration and Corrections Silmy Karim contesting the validity of forced asset seizure. KPK spokesperson Budi Prasetyo said investigators followed proper procedures under the Criminal Procedure Code and are prepared to explain every step in court. Silmy is among eight suspects in an alleged extortion scheme involving residence permits for foreign nationals.

Indonesia plans to turn 380,000 tons of downgraded rice into flour

Indonesia's Coordinating Minister for Food Affairs, Zulkifli Hasan, announced plans to auction around 380,000 tons of deteriorated government rice stocks to flour producers at a minimum of Rp11,000 per kilogram. The initiative forms part of the country's natural resource downstreaming policy and aims to stabilise flour prices whilst retaining the economic value of Bulog-managed rice reserves. The minister expressed optimism that the measure, alongside expanded rice and corn allocations under the SPHP programme, will keep staple food prices affordable across Indonesia.

Disaster Mitigation Emergency: UMJ Expert Highlights Logistics Readiness and Government Response

Dr Mawar, a disaster mitigation expert at Muhammadiyah University of Jakarta, says Indonesia's disaster preparedness remains in transition from a reactive to a preventive approach despite advances in monitoring technology. She calls for stronger early warning follow-through, routine community drills, and an integrated response system coordinating central government, regional authorities, BNPB, BPBD, volunteers and the private sector.

Volcanic ash grounds operations at Wunopito Airport in NTT

Wunopito Airport in East Nusa Tenggara was closed from 7:01 a.m. local time on 8 September until 6 a.m. the following day after Mount Ili Lewotolok erupted, sending an ash column around 800 metres above its peak. AirNav Indonesia issued a Notice to Air Missions citing risks that volcanic ash poses to aviation safety, and is monitoring ash dispersion while coordinating with stakeholders before resuming operations.

A Year of Experimenting as Finance Minister, Purbaya: Economy to Grow 6% in 2027

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa says a year of policy experimentation has given the government a thorough understanding of Indonesia's economic problems and their solutions. He is confident growth will accelerate towards 6% from the fourth quarter of 2026, exceeding 6% in 2027, helped by President Prabowo Subianto's programmes.

Climate change demands a change in the way disasters are managed

Fires leave behind damaged vegetation and vulnerable land that can trigger secondary disasters such as erosion, sedimentation, floods and debris flows once heavy rains return. Data from the National Disaster Management Agency shows over 1,900 hectares burned in South Sumatra and more than 15,000 hectares in Riau, underscoring the need for post-fire land assessment and continued government response beyond extinguishing the flames.

This is the latest condition of Mount Anak Krakatau's activity

Mount Anak Krakatau was observed emitting smoke visible from Sebesi Island in South Lampung Regency, Lampung, on 8 September 2026. According to the Centre for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG), monitoring on 7–8 September recorded two eruption earthquakes, four blowing earthquakes, 76 low-frequency earthquakes, 100 hybrid/multiphase earthquakes, continuous tremor, and seventeen shallow and deep volcanic earthquakes.

Britain Backs Palestine, Trade with Israeli Settlements to Be Banned

The British government is preparing a reset of its relationship with Israel, with Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband set to announce a ban on goods and services originating from Israeli settlements in occupied Palestinian territories. The move aligns with a 2024 ICJ advisory opinion and follows strong domestic support, though it has drawn fierce criticism from Israeli ministers and the US ambassador.

Anara Airport Hotel Wins Award for Integrated Hajj Ritual Training Services

Anara Airport Hotel, located at Terminal 3 of Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, has won the 'Hotel Providing Integrated Manasik (Hajj Ritual Training) Services' category at the 2026 Anugerah Perjalanan Suci Indonesia awards, organised with tvOne. The award recognises the hotel's comprehensive facilities for pilgrims, including a free shuttle service to Terminal 2 and dedicated group spaces for pre-departure preparations.

Central Jakarta Reading Ambassadors for 2026 inaugurated to strengthen literacy culture

The Central Jakarta administrative government has inaugurated its Reading Ambassadors for 2026 as part of efforts to strengthen literacy culture and reading interest. Deputy Mayor Eric PZ Lumbun said literacy now encompasses comprehension, critical thinking, communication and the ability to generate useful ideas, calling for broad collaboration across government, libraries, schools, communities and business.

Mount Ungaran Geothermal Project Faces Public Protest, Luthfi: No One Wants to Make the People Suffer

Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi has called for a persuasive approach to mounting public opposition to the Mount Ungaran geothermal project, insisting that no government would harm its people. Although the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources has issued exploration permits to PT PLN, the project still requires additional approvals, including an environmental impact assessment and public consultation. More than 8,800 people have signed a petition on change.org rejecting the drilling plans, citing concerns over water sources and livelihoods.

Deputy Police Chief Leads Joint Prayer, Stresses Police Presence Amid Citizens' Hardships

Deputy National Police Chief Commissioner-General Dedi Prasetyo called on the Bhayangkara Corps family to pray together for the safety of the nation and all police personnel during a Maulid Nabi celebration at National Police Headquarters. He emphasised that the police must remain present among communities facing difficulties, including those affected by recent disasters, and urged officers to embody the Prophet's values of honesty, justice and compassion in their service.

Zelensky Claims Russia Is Ready to Negotiate

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said Russia signalled its readiness to negotiate an end to the war during talks with US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. Zelensky told Axios that Washington is pushing to de-escalate the conflict ahead of a long winter, though he believes Moscow sees the cold months as an opportunity to break Ukraine.

Gianyar Regional Parliament Demands On-Target 2026 Budget Amendment

The Gianyar Regional Parliament (DPRD) has called for transparent and accountable management of the 2026 amended regional budget, prioritising MSMEs, social protection, and infrastructure. The council also raised concerns over the deactivation of KIS PBI health card holders and an 8.22 per cent cut in regional levy revenue targets. The regency government has proposed raising locally generated revenue by Rp33.6 billion to Rp2.43 trillion.

Ancol Reclamation to Be Completed by 2030, These Are the Facilities to Be Built

PT Pembangunan Jaya Ancol Tbk aims to begin construction of a 65-hectare reclamation project in the Ancol area by February 2027, with the tender for a strategic partner targeted to conclude in December 2026. The development will adopt a mixed-use concept and is expected to be established by 2030.

BMKG: Four districts in North Sulawesi under drought 'Awas' category

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has placed four districts in North Sulawesi under the meteorological drought early warning category for early September 2026. Residents have been urged to conserve clean water and avoid burning waste or land amid strong winds and low rainfall forecasts.

Jakarta Provincial Government promotes urban tourism to Indian tourists

The DKI Jakarta Provincial Government is promoting urban tourism to Indian travellers at ITB India 2026 in Mumbai, featuring seven co-exhibitors from the tour, hotel and attractions sectors. Tourism and Creative Economy Office head Andhika Permata described India as a highly potential market, with the push forming part of Jakarta's strategy to strengthen its global standing and position itself as a premium urban destination.

AKRA Ready to Support Mandatory B50 Biodiesel Programme

PT AKR Corporindo Tbk (AKRA) has declared its readiness to support Indonesia's mandatory B50 biodiesel programme, citing prepared blending facilities and terminal capacity for additional FAME allocations. The government officially implemented B50 in July 2026, aiming to cut greenhouse gas emissions by some 44.46 million tonnes of CO2 equivalent, with full distribution at all petrol stations targeted for 1 October 2026.

Education Minister: Literacy as a Tool to Face the Flood of Information

Minister of Primary and Secondary Education Abdul Mu'ti has called on the public to revitalise Literacy Month in conjunction with International Literacy Day, observed every 8 September. He stressed that literacy must go beyond reading and writing to include critical thinking, verification of information, and responsible use of technology amid rapid digitalisation and AI development. He also emphasised literacy's role in preparing Indonesia's younger generation for Golden Indonesia 2045.

House Member: Island Special Fund must improve the welfare of the people

Siti Mukaromah, a member of the special committee on the Islands Region Bill, has said the Island Special Fund (DKK) must be oriented towards public welfare, serving as a correction for the geographical costs of archipelagic regions. Constitutional law expert Prof. Jimly Asshiddiqie added that fiscal arrangements in the bill should be based on real needs and the objectively higher burdens of island governance. The bill has entered the 2026 Priority National Legislation Programme following a presidential letter from Prabowo Subianto.

139 Petrol Stations in Bali, NTB and NTT Sanctioned by Pertamina

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga has sanctioned 139 fuel stations across Bali, West Nusa Tenggara and East Nusa Tenggara for breaches of distribution and operational rules between January and early September 2026. The sanctions, ranging from warnings to temporary suspension of certain product supplies, form part of a wider crackdown covering 237 stations in the Jatimbalinus region. Pertamina has also conducted guidance programmes at more than 900 stations to ensure subsidised fuel is distributed according to regulations.

Israel Threatens to Kill Senior Palestinian Authority Officials in the West Bank

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz has warned of an 'all-out war' in the occupied West Bank if military operations are planned by groups linked to the Palestinian Authority, targeting senior PA officials and security personnel. Katz said Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had instructed the military to prepare for such an operation should the security situation deteriorate, vowing to prevent a repeat of the Second Intifada or the events of 7 October.

Here's How to Track the Spread of Volcanic Ash from Mount Anak Krakatau Using Your Phone

The spread of volcanic ash from Mount Anak Krakatau's eruption can be monitored online via satellite imagery services such as the BMKG's ash dispersal page and NASA Worldview. As of 8 September 2026, ash was detected up to around 7,000 feet, drifting south-west towards parts of Banten and the Indian Ocean. Officials urge the public to follow updates from BMKG, PVMBG and BNPB, particularly when travelling in affected areas.

China's New Killer Weapons Ready for Deployment to the Battlefield

Chinese humanoid robots, showcased at the World Humanoid Robot Games in Beijing, are now being fast-tracked for military use, according to the PLA's official newspaper. A Reuters review found China's defence institutions are accelerating research into battlefield applications, leveraging the country's dominance of 95% of global humanoid robot shipments in 2025. Experts warn that energy demands, field reliability and ethical dilemmas remain significant obstacles.

Riau Police and Johor Police Strengthen Cooperation on Malacca Strait Security

Riau Regional Police Chief Inspector General Herry Heryawan held a bilateral meeting with Johor Police in Malaysia to strengthen security cooperation in the Malacca Strait against transnational crime. The meeting addressed people smuggling, narcotics and cross-border haze, and proposed an integrated case management mechanism and five key commitments, including faster intelligence-sharing and victim protection.

Recruitment Sentiment Strengthens in Asia Pacific and Middle East, NEO Reaches +33% in Q4 2026: ManpowerGroup Survey

Hiring sentiment across the Asia Pacific and Middle East region improved to a Net Employment Outlook of +33% in Q4 2026, up five points quarter-on-quarter, according to ManpowerGroup's survey of nearly 13,000 employers. India posted the strongest outlook at +54%, whilst the Information sector led industry hiring intentions at +42%.

Pepabri affirms veterans' dedication to national unity

The Indonesian Veterans and Widows Association of the Armed Forces and Police (Pepabri), led by retired General Agum Gumelar, has reaffirmed its commitment to serving the nation by safeguarding unity and the integrity of the unitary state. The statement was made ahead of the organisation's 67th anniversary, which falls on 12 September 2026 in Surabaya. Pepabri, founded in 1959, also continues social welfare programmes and the transmission of national values to the younger generation.

At Unpad Dies Natalis Public Lecture, Minister of PANRB Assures Social Assistance Can Be Processed in an Hour with Digitalisation

Minister of Administrative and Bureaucratic Reform Rini Widyantini said government digital transformation must prioritise tangible public benefit over technological sophistication. Speaking at Universitas Padjadjaran's 69th Dies Natalis, she revealed that digitalising social assistance (Bansos) using face recognition has cut processing from 75–200 days to just one hour. She assured that citizen data is protected under the Personal Data Protection Law and supervised by the National Cyber and Crypto Agency.

Prabowo Wants All Indonesians to Have Bank Accounts, BRI Affirms It Can Strengthen the Foundations of the People's Economy

President Prabowo has ordered his cabinet to ensure every Indonesian citizen holds a bank account to boost financial inclusion and literacy, with national inclusion at 93.61 per cent and literacy at 69.57 per cent per the 2026 SNLIK survey. Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto said population data from the civil registry (dukcapil) will be integrated with Bank Indonesia's payment and gateway systems, including QRIS. State-owned lender BRI has expressed its readiness to support the directive, stressing that access must be accompanied by financial education.

KPK summons PT Air Minum Giri Menang warehouse chief and two employees

The KPK has summoned the warehouse head and two employees of PT Air Minum Giri Menang as witnesses in a corruption case involving suspended West Lombok Regent Lalu Ahmad Zaini. The regent is suspected of receiving up to Rp12.4 billion from conflicts of interest in procurement and bribes tied to a project won by PT Meconel Sistim Instrument.

Coordinating Minister Yusril Explains His Article in the Book 'Islam ala Prabowo'

Coordinating Minister for Legal, Human Rights, Immigration and Corrections Affairs Yusril Ihza Mahendra has clarified that he did not write his article in the book 'Islam ala Prabowo', which was compiled from an interview conducted before his ministerial appointment. He denied any role in initiating, financing or titling the book, which was launched at the BAZNAS 2025 National Coordination Meeting and has sparked public debate on social media.

Breaking News! IHSG Rises 1%, Just Shy of the 6,700 Level

Indonesia's composite index (IHSG) climbed 1.02% to 6,687.03 in the second trading session on Tuesday, approaching the psychological 6,700 level. Gains were led by the basic materials and financial sectors, with Bank Central Asia the biggest index contributor, whilst foreign investors recorded a net buy of Rp83.37 billion.

Canada officially imposes retaliatory tariffs on US products

Canada has officially enacted retaliatory tariffs on US goods worth 27.6 billion Canadian dollars, matching Washington's tariffs dollar for dollar under Section 338 of the US Tariff Act of 1930. The move follows the collapse of bilateral talks in late August, after which President Trump imposed 50 percent tariffs on Canadian steel, aluminium, timber and automotive components.

The Construction SOEs Merger Epidemic

President Prabowo Subianto's accelerated consolidation of state-owned enterprises risks spreading financial distress, as Danantara merges seven ailing construction SOEs into three holdings within three months. Companies such as Adhi Karya and Pembangunan Perumahan have defaulted on or failed to restructure bonds, while Wijaya Karya, Waskita Karya and Adhi Karya carry combined debts of Rp180 trillion amid chronic losses. The editorial urges the government to address each company's problems gradually, restore commercial discipline, and stop assigning unprofitable projects rather than forcing rapid mergers to meet administrative targets.

Jakarta Provincial Government Sprays Water Mist on City Roads to Disperse Anak Krakatau Ash

The DKI Jakarta Provincial Government has deployed high-pressure water mist spraying operations across major roads to mitigate the impact of volcanic ash from Mount Anak Krakatau. Personnel from the Fire and Rescue Agency, the Regional Disaster Management Agency and the Environment Agency are jointly working to suppress airborne dust and keep affected streets clean, while residents are urged to remain vigilant over air quality conditions.

PVMBG: Mount Kerinci Safe, Activity Dominated by Shallow Earthquakes

The Kerinci Volcano Observation Post has confirmed that Mount Kerinci remains at Level II (alert) status, with routine fortnightly evaluations showing no significant increase in seismic activity. Head of the post Irwan Safwan said the white smoke occasionally seen emerging from the crater is a normal phenomenon caused by groundwater and not a sign of eruption. He also stressed that Kerinci's activity is independent of other active volcanoes, as each has its own separate magma system.

Police Goes to School in Rohul Campaigns Green Policing and Forest Fire Prevention

Rokan Hulu Police (Polres Rohul) and its subordinate police stations carried out a 'Police Goes to School' programme at primary, junior and senior secondary schools as part of a Green Policing campaign. The initiative aims to instil environmental awareness in students and prevent forest and land fires (karhutla), alongside education on drug abuse and public security and order. Police Chief AKBP Emil Eka Putra stressed that environmental protection is a shared responsibility, including for the younger generation.

CapCut Celebrates Community Growth at CapCut World Event

CapCut, the all-in-one creative editing platform launched in 2020, now reaches over 660 million users across more than 170 markets. The company held its inaugural CapCut World community event in Singapore, bringing together over 300 creators and industry leaders, with further events planned for Los Angeles and London later this year.

Backing President Prabowo's Directive, BRI Ready to Be the Backbone of Financial Access Expansion for Indonesians

PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia (Persero) Tbk has declared its readiness to support President Prabowo Subianto's directive to expand banking account ownership among Indonesians, boosting financial inclusion and literacy. The government plans to match civil registration data from Dukcapil with Bank Indonesia's systems, alongside QRIS, to strengthen the digital transaction ecosystem. BRI, with 131 million individual customers and an extensive network of branches, e-channels, BRILink agents and the BRImo super app, says account ownership will underpin faster, more transparent and efficient delivery of government programmes.

Plastic Factory Fire in Balaraja Not Extinguished After 48 Hours, 33 Families Evacuated

A fire at a plastic factory owned by PT Technoplastika Prima Perdana in Balaraja, Tangerang Regency, has burned for 48 hours despite firefighting efforts. The local disaster agency has evacuated 33 families affected by smoke, and losses are estimated at Rp10 billion.

After Mount Anak Krakatau Eruption, Transport Minister Orders Aircraft Inspections Before Flights Resume

Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi has ordered airlines and airport authorities to thoroughly inspect all aircraft for volcanic ash contamination before resuming operations following the Mount Anak Krakatau eruption. Several airports closed by ash fallout, including Soekarno-Hatta, reopened from early Tuesday after passing national aviation safety evaluations, though two airports in Lampung remain shut pending further assessment.

Yogyakarta Regional Councillor Recorded as Decile 4 Recipient of Social Assistance

Lisman Puja Kesuma, chairman of the Gerindra faction in the DIY Regional Legislative Council, has been recorded in the National Socio-Economic Single Data (DTSEN) as a recipient of social assistance in the Decile 4 category in Sleman Regency, despite never registering for any aid programme. He has urged the government to update the data to ensure assistance reaches those genuinely in need. Similar misclassifications have surfaced elsewhere in Yogyakarta, including a motorised rickshaw driver listed in Decile 9 and a disabled elderly man recorded in Decile 10.

People See One Brand. The Internet May Show Them Hundreds More.

ONESECURE's The State of Digital Trust in Singapore 2026 report found that each reference organisation domain was associated with a median of 151 lookalike domains, with 82% showing observable internet or email infrastructure. The study analysed 120,702 distinct lookalike domains across 448 organisation domains, highlighting how external digital identities beyond organisational control can shape public trust. The findings, though Singapore-focused, raise broader questions relevant to any organisation operating online, including in Indonesia.

Kepulauan Seribu to host Bahari Festival to attract more tourists

The Kepulauan Seribu district will hold a Bahari Festival featuring jet skiing, paddleboarding, mangrove planting, island cleanups and live music to boost tourist arrivals. Officials say the event aims to stimulate the local economy while promoting marine environmental awareness. The district's proximity to Jakarta continues to make it a popular weekend destination.

Leaked Next-Generation Hyundai Kona: More Stylish and Modern Design

Leaks surrounding the next-generation Hyundai Kona point to a more mature and stylish design whilst retaining its futuristic identity. The compact SUV is expected to feature a Seamless Horizon Lamp, dual integrated screens and a range of powertrains from ICE to hybrid and fully electric. Hyundai is also set to showcase new EV and HEV models at GIIAS 2026, underlining its long-term commitment to Indonesian mobility.

Prabowo Floats 'Merger' of ESDM's Geological Agency and BMKG, Here's Why

President Prabowo Subianto has raised the possibility of merging the Geological Agency of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources with the Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG). He made the remark while chairing a limited meeting on natural disaster management, noting Indonesia's position on the Pacific Ring of Fire. Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia declined to comment, saying he had not yet reviewed the matter.

Ancol to Expand Land Reclamation to 65 Hectares, with Hotels and Even a Hospital

PT Pembangunan Jaya Ancol Tbk plans to develop a 65-hectare reclaimed mixed-use area comprising hotels, apartments, a hospital and entertainment facilities. The company aims to appoint a winning contractor by December 2026 and begin work in February 2027, with full operation targeted for 2030. Jakarta's DPRD Commission B also urged the development of Ancol's marina to improve access to the Thousand Islands.

Impact of Krakatau Eruption: BMKG Says Tsunami Risk Low but Waves Could Reach 3 Metres

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has assessed the probability of a tsunami following the eruption of Anak Krakatau as low, based on readings from 20 tsunami gauges and coastal radar. However, sea waves of 0.5 to 3 metres are forecast around the Sunda Strait over the coming week, and volcanic activity continues to be monitored closely.

Wings Air Kupang-Larantuka Flight Cancelled Due to Volcanic Ash

A Wings Air flight from Kupang to Larantuka was cancelled after volcanic ash from the eruption of Mount Ile Lewotolok affected the flight route. Wunopito Airport in Lewoleba, East Nusa Tenggara, was also temporarily closed, whilst Gewayantana Airport in Larantuka continued normal operations.

Puan urges probe into land burned, then planted with oil palms

House Speaker Puan Maharani has called on authorities to promptly investigate cases where land burned by forest fires was subsequently converted for other uses, including oil palm planting, echoing concerns raised by President Prabowo Subianto. She stressed that tackling forest and land fires must extend beyond firefighting to address impacts on health, education and welfare. Police have named 138 suspects in fire cases, including 119 for deliberate burning, with eight companies facing legal proceedings.

Iran Warns US Energy Assets in the Gulf Are Vulnerable to Retaliatory Attacks

Iran's parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has warned that American oil and gas assets in the Gulf and around the Strait of Hormuz are vulnerable to Iranian retaliation following US strikes on Iranian tankers. The exchange of attacks has pushed oil prices near a six-week high, with no diplomatic progress in sight after six months of conflict. US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth warned Iran that its oil tanker fleet would be destroyed if it fired on US vessels.

KAI adds Jakarta train capacity after Anak Krakatau's eruption

Indonesia's state railway operator KAI has added train capacity on routes to Jakarta following the eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau, which disrupted air travel. Its Surabaya regional division is operating 41 services with 23,384 seats, including two additional trains from Surabaya Pasarturi and Malang to Gambir. KAI said it will continue to monitor travel demand and adjust capacity while prioritising passenger safety.

KH Ahmad Fudholi Dies After Accident on Tangerang-Merak Toll Road

KH Ahmad Fudholi, a prominent Banten-based cleric and Islamic preacher, has died at Tangerang Regency Hospital after being injured in a traffic accident on the Tangerang-Merak toll road. Banten Governor Andra Soni paid his condolences in person, while Deputy Governor Achmad Dimyati Natakusumah urged the public to respect the family's privacy and refrain from spreading footage of the incident.

Krakatau Steel Reshuffles Management, Announces New Directors and Commissioners

PT Krakatau Steel (Persero) Tbk has appointed Willgo Zainar as its new President Director following an extraordinary general meeting in 2026. The state steelmaker also reported a 30.6 per cent rise in steel sales volumes and a doubling of gross profit in the first half of 2026, supported by working capital funding from Danantara.

Japan Eyes Rebana in West Java, New Business Opportunities Wide Open

The Indonesian government, through the Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs, is partnering with JICA to attract Japanese investment into the Rebana area in West Java, hosting a co-creation seminar on new business opportunities and public-private partnerships. The zone has already drawn Rp36 trillion in investment in 2025, with Rp21.59 trillion more by Q2 2026, and is projected to create up to 1.8 million jobs.

AKRA allocates Rp1 trillion for terminal development through to JIIPE

PT AKR Corporindo Tbk has set aside Rp1 trillion in capital expenditure for 2026 to develop terminals across Java, Kalimantan and Sulawesi, acquire a vessel, and complete utility facilities at JIIPE in Gresik. Around Rp546 billion had already been spent by the first half of the year, as the company reported revenues of Rp30.84 trillion.

BNPT: Cooperation with Partner Countries Needed to Counter Borderless Digital Threats

Indonesia's National Counter-Terrorism Agency (BNPT) has stressed the importance of international cooperation, including with Brunei Darussalam, to address terrorist threats in the digital sphere that cross national borders. BNPT chief Eddy Hartono warned that social media, online gaming platforms and artificial intelligence can be exploited to spread violent extremist propaganda, particularly among the young. A meeting with Brunei's Research Department in Bogor highlighted the need for joint prevention efforts, early detection and information exchange.

M5.1 Aftershock Strikes Near Ruteng in Flores Earthquake Sequence

A magnitude 5.1 earthquake struck off the coast north-east of Ruteng in Manggarai, East Nusa Tenggara, at a depth of 10 kilometres, with BMKG confirming no tsunami potential. The quake is part of the aftershock sequence following the magnitude 7.7 earthquake that hit Flores on 15 August, with 13,591 aftershocks recorded so far. BMKG attributed the activity to the Flores Back-Arc Thrust and urged residents to stay calm and avoid damaged buildings.

Xiaomi 18 Fold launches with 6,000 mAh battery and Xring O3 chip

Xiaomi has launched its new foldable handset, the Xiaomi 18 Fold, featuring a 6,000 mAh battery and the company's in-house Xring O3 chip. The device offers significant performance gains over its predecessor, with multi-core CPU performance up 60 per cent and GPU performance up 85 per cent. It is currently available only in China, with prices starting from 10,999 yuan (around Rp28.8 million).

Satgas PASTI Halts 1,222 Illegal Financial Entities by End of August 2026, Most Being Illegal Online Loans

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) reported that Satgas PASTI halted 1,222 illegal financial entities between January and August 2026, with illegal online lending (pinjol) accounting for 951 of them. The agency also received over 30,000 complaints about illegal entities and, through the Indonesia Anti-Scam Centre, blocked nearly 660,000 bank accounts and frozen Rp771.2 billion in victim funds.

Eight-Year-Old Palestinian Girl Killed by Israel on Her First Day of School

An eight-year-old Palestinian girl, Wafaa Yousef Nabil Akila, was killed alongside her father in an Israeli drone strike in western Gaza City, just hours after attending the first day of the new school year. The Israeli military identified her father as a Hamas Nukhba commander, though no publicly accessible evidence was provided. The killing has sparked outrage online and highlighted the destruction of Gaza's education infrastructure, which has forced thousands of children to study in tents and emergency classrooms.

Xiaomi Pad 9 Pro Max debuts with 13.3-inch display and 12,000 mAh battery

Xiaomi has officially launched the Pad 9 Pro Max, its first tablet powered by the in-house Xring O3 chipset, featuring a 13.3-inch 144Hz LCD display and a 12,000 mAh battery with 120W fast charging. The tablet starts at 4,799 yuan (around Rp12.6 million), with the top-spec variant priced at 7,899 yuan (around Rp21 million).

KPK Summons Head of Central Java DPRD Commission A in Pemalang Regent Extortion Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned Imam Teguh Purnomo, head of Commission A of the Central Java Regional Legislative Council (DPRD), as a witness in the extortion case surrounding suspended Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro. The KPK has named four suspects, including the regent and a KPK administrative officer, with an alleged Rp 1.98 billion collected through extortion.

Eiffel Tower Closes Abruptly Amid Controversy Over Hindu Delegation

The Eiffel Tower in Paris was abruptly closed on Monday after staff went on strike over the treatment of female employees during a visit by a Hindu religious delegation. Management had reportedly complied with a request to replace female staff with male workers during a private tour on Saturday, prompting union outrage. The tower's operator has acknowledged the incident, saying such a request should never have been accepted, while Paris City Hall voiced support for the workers.

Analyst: Gus Kikin can push NU to strengthen the blue economy

Maritime analyst Marcellus Hakeng Jayawibawa believes newly elected PBNU Chairman KH Abdul Hakim Mahfudz, known as Gus Kikin, can leverage his shipping background to strengthen NU's focus on Indonesia's blue economy. Gus Kikin, elected at the 35th NU Congress for the 2026–2031 term, studied at the Jakarta Maritime Institute and led PT Djakarta Lloyd's Cilegon branch before entering business. The analyst likened leading NU to steering a ship, noting that his managerial experience suits an organisation stretching from the coast to the interior.

Four Eruptions Within Hours: Current Status of Mount Anak Krakatau Today

Mount Anak Krakatau in the Sunda Strait erupted four times on 8 September 2026, between 05:08 and 11:34 WIB, with seismic activity recorded at a maximum amplitude of 50 mm. The Geological Agency has maintained the volcano's alert status at Level III (Siaga), warning residents and tourists to stay at least 3 kilometres from the centre of activity.

INKA-Made KRL Enters Maintenance, Leading to Reduced Train Services

KAI Commuter has cut 17 daily trips on the Jakarta Kota–Bogor route after withdrawing the INKA-built iE305 train series for maintenance. The series, which entered service in December 2025, suffered door malfunctions and two derailments in a single day at Jakarta Kota and Manggarai stations. INKA has taken responsibility, deploying engineering and quality assurance teams to work alongside KAI Commuter to ensure safety and reliability.

Puan pushes for a single disaster management command in Indonesia

House Speaker Puan Maharani has called for disaster management in Indonesia to be brought under a single leadership capable of coordinating ministries, agencies and regional governments. Her remarks come amid heightened volcanic activity, including the eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau, which disrupted flights and forced the temporary closure of eight airports.

BPS: KBLI Changes Part of Routine Economic Activity Classification Update

Statistics Indonesia (BPS) says the KBLI 2025 revision is a routine five-yearly update aligning Indonesia's economic activity classification with the UN's ISIC standard. Head of BPS Amalia Adininggar Widyasanti assured businesses the change does not require amendments to company deeds of incorporation, under a joint circular signed by three ministries and agencies. Existing licences issued before KBLI 2025 remain valid.

Copper Seen as New Chapter in Indonesia's Mineral Resource Development

Indonesia is entering a new phase of mineral resource management, with copper playing a central role in electrification and the global energy transition. Through MIND ID's majority stake in PT Freeport Indonesia, the country is building an integrated mineral value chain, exemplified by the Gresik Precious Metal Refinery, which supplied 125 kg of gold to ANTAM in February 2025. MIND ID says integration across its holding members ensures strategic minerals deliver greater added value domestically.

Indonesia suspends nearly 2,000 free meal kitchens for breaching sanitation rules

Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency has temporarily suspended 1,999 kitchens under President Prabowo Subianto's flagship free meals programme for failing to register for mandatory hygiene and sanitation certification. The programme, which currently operates 27,022 kitchens nationwide, has been plagued by corruption allegations, leadership changes and mass food poisoning outbreaks affecting at least 50,000 people. Lawmaker Charles Honoris cited health department data showing more than 2,000 students and teachers fell ill in a single week, with improper food storage and late deliveries identified as the main causes.

Batam's Economy Grows 7.28%, Outpacing Riau Islands and National Figures

Batam's economy grew 7.28% year on year in the second quarter of 2026, surpassing both the Riau Islands province at 6.99% and the national rate of 5.29%. BP Batam leaders say the focus now is on translating growth into jobs, better infrastructure and quality, inclusive investment in advanced manufacturing, data centres and logistics.

Organising disaster communication beyond the affected area's radius

This opinion piece argues that disaster communication should not end once official statements are issued, as the real work begins afterwards in helping the public navigate uncertainty. It stresses that communication must be treated as part of disaster preparedness rather than merely a response measure, with the state responsible for helping people understand evolving situations and distinguish reliable information.

Forest Fires Destroy 37 Hectares in Siak, Exposing Palm Oil Operations; Two Named Suspects

An investigation into a 37-hectare land fire in Dayun, Siak Regency, has revealed suspected illegal palm oil cultivation within a production forest area. Two men, MS (53) and MPS (52), have been named suspects, with police seizing evidence including tools and fuel from the site. Riau Regional Police stressed that fire response extends beyond extinguishing blazes to enforcing the law against land clearing and illegal forest use.

Harita Nickel Pursues World-Class Mining Standards — Here's Why

PT Trimegah Bangun Persada Tbk, known as Harita Nickel, is awaiting the results of a voluntary audit by the Initiative for Responsible Mining Assurance (IRMA), which could make it the first Indonesian mining company to earn the certification. The move reflects both a commitment to continuous improvement and pressure from European battery and EV manufacturers demanding high ESG standards for nickel feedstock. It comes as the company posted Rp 29.63 trillion in 2025 revenue, alongside rising hazardous waste volumes of 40 million tonnes.

Former House Speaker and Presidential Cousin Arrested over Rp 2.1 Trillion Corruption Case

Philippine police have served an arrest warrant on former House Speaker Martin Romualdez, a first cousin of President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr., while he was hospitalised in Metro Manila. Romualdez and three others face plunder charges over 7.44 billion pesos allegedly taken from contractors with interests in flood control and other infrastructure projects funded by the national budget between 2022 and 2025.

Road in Duren Sawit, East Jakarta, Collapses After Being Crossed by Sand-Laden Truck

A section of Jalan Raden Inten Raya in Duren Sawit, East Jakarta, collapsed after a heavily laden sand truck passed over it, leaving only 1.5 metres of the road usable. The Jakarta Public Works Agency confirmed the incident and said the truck's owner has agreed to bear responsibility for repairs.

Prosecutors Open Case File Revealing Yaqut Received US$271,500, Witness Says He Is Unclear

Prosecutors at the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) revealed an examination dossier in the trial over alleged corruption in the 2023-2024 additional hajj quota, showing former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas allegedly received US$271,500. Witness Ridwan Kurniawan, a former ministry contractor, said he merely delivered envelopes and was 'not clear' on the figures, deferring to further evidence. The case allegedly caused state losses of Rp622 billion and enriched 27 parties, including 313 special hajj organisers.

Bone DPRD Speaker Questioned Over Alleged Assault of Staff Member, Faces 20 Questions

Andi Tenri Walinonong, Speaker of the Bone DPRD in South Sulawesi, was questioned by police for two hours over the alleged assault of a part-time PPPK staff member, Yuli Nofita Sari. Investigators posed around 20 questions relating to the alleged throwing of objects at the victim, following a complaint lodged after an incident at the DPRD canteen in July.

BMKG: Rainy Season in West Nusa Tenggara Delayed Until December

The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has warned that the dry season in West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) is likely to persist until the end of November 2026, with the rainy season delayed until December. A very strong El Niño, with an index of 2.74, is expected to maintain low rainfall, and some areas such as Bima Regency have recorded more than 100 consecutive days without rain.

AKR Corporindo (AKRA) Hints at Dividend, Here's the Amount

PT AKR Corporindo Tbk (AKRA) plans to distribute dividends for the 2026 fiscal year with a payout ratio of at least 30% of net profit, down from as much as 80% in the 2025 fiscal year. The company reported net profit of Rp1.43 trillion in the first half of 2026, up 21.25% year on year, though dividend decisions remain subject to funding needs and shareholder approval.

Silmy Karim Files Pre-Trial Motion Against KPK, Challenging Seizure of Evidence

Former Deputy Minister of Immigration and Corrections Silmy Karim has filed a pre-trial motion at South Jakarta District Court challenging the legality of the Corruption Eradication Commission's seizure of evidence. Karim and seven others have been named suspects in an alleged extortion and gratification scheme involving residence permits for foreign nationals between 2022 and 2026. The KPK has seized assets worth approximately Rp150 billion following raids across multiple immigration offices and visa service agencies.

BRI backs President's directive to expand bank account ownership

PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia (Persero) Tbk has pledged its support for President Prabowo Subianto's directive to ensure every Indonesian citizen holds a bank account, strengthening financial inclusion and literacy. BRI President Director Hery Gunardi said the initiative should be paired with financial education so account ownership becomes a gateway to broader financial services. Coordinating Economic Minister Airlangga Hartarto said dukcapil civil registration data would be integrated with Bank Indonesia's payment and gateway systems, using QRIS, to widen account ownership.

Drunk Woman Destroys Pukis Seller's Cart in Babarsari, Sleman

A disturbance occurred on Jalan Babarsari in Sleman when a woman, reportedly under the influence of alcohol, damaged a pukis (steamed cake) seller's cart. Police from West Depok sector responded to a public report and took both parties in for mediation. Authorities have urged residents to avoid excessive drinking and to refrain from destructive acts when disputes arise.