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Preserving Jemparingan, Mataram-Style Traditional Archery

A community event in Semarang introduced younger participants to jemparingan, a traditional form of Mataram-style archery, as part of activities marking Youth Pledge Day 2026. Recognised as Indonesian Intangible Cultural Heritage, the practice is being sustained through public events so it can be passed on to future generations.

BI Holds Rate at 5.75% as Economist Calls Move a Measured Step to Safeguard Stability and Growth

Bank Indonesia has kept its policy rate at 5.75% while raising the Deposit Facility rate to 5%, alongside measures intended to stabilise the rupiah and support sustainable growth. It will also cut reserve requirements in stages, a move the central bank estimates could inject around Rp190 trillion in additional banking liquidity.

Yesterday: Health Minister’s alleged breathing difficulties and halal certification deadline for MSMEs postponed

The article rounds up five human-interest stories, including the government’s denial that Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin suffered breathing difficulties during a visit to Palangka Raya and the postponement of mandatory halal certification for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises until 2028. It also reports on a mountain rescue, efforts to tackle a forest fire in Way Kambas National Park, and free rice assistance for 33.2 million recipients.

Government preparing framework to involve MSMEs in supplying food for free meals programme

The Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises is developing a framework to expand MSME participation in supplying ingredients to the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. More than 68,000 businesses already supply kitchens run by Nutrition Service Fulfilment Units, but the ministry says participation needs to grow further as the government seeks to strengthen the people’s economy.

Yesterday: The Best Time to Wash Your Face and the Tecno Megabook K15S

This roundup of lifestyle, technology, automotive and entertainment stories includes a survey ranking Communications and Digital Minister Meutya Hafid among the Cabinet’s ten best-performing ministers, as well as the launch of Tecno’s Megabook K15S laptop in Indonesia. It also covers skincare advice, a forthcoming film and newly revealed interior options for Denza’s N8 electric vehicle.

Crime roundup: Pickpockets at a free concert and drug dealers

Police in Jakarta arrested two suspected pickpockets during a free concert in Setiabudi and seized 75.78 grams of suspected methamphetamine from an alleged dealer in Cengkareng. Officers also arrested three suspected drug offenders in Tambora, with one believed to be a dealer and two suspected of drug use.

Minister: Halal certification deadline postponed on president’s orders

UMKM Minister Maman Abdurrahman says the deadline for mandatory halal certification for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises has been postponed from October 2026 to 2028 at President Prabowo Subianto’s direction. The government cited missed certification targets and businesses’ difficulties meeting administrative requirements, and says it will seek a mechanism that balances the statutory obligation with UMKM’s capacity.

Diabetes Can Also Affect Young People: Know the Risk Factors

Diabetes can affect children, teenagers and young adults, and type 2 diabetes may develop gradually without obvious early symptoms. Family history, excess weight, inactivity, dietary habits, prediabetes and other metabolic or pregnancy-related factors can increase risk, while type 1 diabetes has a distinct autoimmune cause and cannot be prevented through lifestyle changes alone.

Memories and Grief as Widodo AS Is Laid to Rest

Former Indonesian military chief Admiral (Ret.) Widodo Adi Sutjipto has died, prompting tributes from senior officials and former leaders who recalled his role in uniting the armed forces during the post-1998 reform transition. He was buried with military honours in Jakarta; his career included leading the Navy and the TNI, serving as Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal and Security Affairs, and joining the Presidential Advisory Council.

Gold Slumps to US$3,900 as Major Headwind Looms Over Recovery Attempt

Gold fell below US$4,000 an ounce after losing 4.1% in a week, with investors weighing whether it can recover or face further pressure from a strong US dollar and uncertainty over interest rates. The Federal Reserve’s policy decision is a key near-term catalyst, while analysts point to US$3,970 as support and say a move above US$4,230 would strengthen the case that the correction has ended. Central-bank buying remains a longer-term support, though it does not rule out further declines.

URI Governor Visits Prabowo’s Hambalang Home to Discuss New Campus in Bogor

President Prabowo Subianto met Universitas Republik Indonesia (URI) Governor Donny Ermawan Taufanto to discuss the university’s leadership education programmes and plans for a new facility in Bogor. The meeting also covered 384 participants in the President’s Future Leaders Programme, who are scheduled to begin internships in early 2027; a parliamentary committee member has previously said it had received no formal information about URI’s legal basis, functions or budget.

The dangers of reheating rice repeatedly: it can cause food poisoning

Rice left at room temperature after cooking can allow Bacillus cereus bacteria to multiply, and reheating it does not necessarily make it safe. The article outlines potential vomiting and diarrhoea symptoms, their typical onset, and advice on hydration and seeking medical care.

Food Allergy or Intolerance? Five Key Differences

Food allergies involve an immune response and can cause life-threatening anaphylaxis, while food intolerances usually stem from difficulty digesting or processing particular ingredients. The article outlines differences in symptoms, timing, triggers and health risks, and advises medical assessment rather than self-diagnosis or unsupported home tests.

Startup Creates AI-Designed Virus and Injects It into a Human Patient

Radical Numerics says it used AI to design a bacteriophage and injected it into a patient to treat a bacterial infection, potentially offering a new approach to antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The claim has drawn scepticism because the results have not been published in a peer-reviewed journal and the company has withheld details about the patient and treating doctor.

Market Turmoil Threatens Investment Issuers

Investment holding companies could face weaker performance amid volatile share markets and MSCI’s consultation on potentially reclassifying Indonesia as a standalone market. Saratoga Investama Sedaya’s portfolio shows mixed year-to-date returns, with TBIG and MDKA falling while ADRO and AADI have risen sharply.

Elvis Presley Song Copyright Holder Sues AI Company Anthropic

The copyright holder for songs by Elvis Presley has sued Anthropic, alleging the AI developer used the compositions without permission to train its Claude chatbot. The case was filed in a US federal court in Northern California; Anthropic had not commented by the time of publication.

Nine Companies Queue for IPOs, Including Three with Large Assets

Nine companies were in the Indonesia Stock Exchange’s IPO pipeline as of 23 October 2026, including three prospective issuers classified as having large-scale assets. Healthcare firms account for the largest share of the pipeline, while seven companies have listed so far this year, raising Rp2.16 trillion.

Are Frequent Thirst and Urination Early Signs of Diabetes? The Facts

Persistent, unexplained thirst and frequent urination can be common symptoms of diabetes, but they may also have other causes and do not by themselves confirm the condition. The article explains why these symptoms occur, lists other warning signs and urges medical assessment when symptoms persist or are accompanied by serious signs of diabetic ketoacidosis.

What to Consider When Designing New Buildings in Heritage Areas

An Indonesian architecture expert says new buildings in heritage areas should respect local historical and architectural character without simply imitating existing styles. She highlights design factors from scale and massing to materials and visual dominance, and says development must comply with heritage-preservation rules, including the 2010 Cultural Heritage Law.

Nine foods to include when trying to conceive, from eggs to leafy greens

A varied, balanced diet can help couples prepare for pregnancy by providing nutrients such as folate, protein and iron, but no individual food is proven to guarantee conception. Women planning a pregnancy are advised to take 400 micrograms of folic acid daily, alongside healthy lifestyle habits and medical advice when needed.

Furore Over Alleged Meeting at Singapore Ambassador’s Residence: Embassy and Dino Patti Djalal Deny It

Singapore’s embassy in Jakarta and former deputy foreign minister Dino Patti Djalal have denied social media claims that Dino and Professor Saiful Mujani visited the Singapore ambassador’s residence on 18 October 2026. Dino said he was in Perth at the time and suggested the post may have been intended to damage his reputation following remarks he made about Indonesia-Singapore relations.

A Busy Week Ahead: Seven Central Banks to Announce Rates as China Holds Key Meeting

Global markets enter a packed week after US stocks fell and Treasury and Indonesian government bond yields rose, amid concerns over AI-related borrowing and escalating US-Iran tensions pushing oil above US$100 a barrel. Investors will focus on policy decisions from seven central banks, China’s Communist Party plenum, and major US and European economic releases, all of which could influence currencies, bonds and risk appetite, including in Indonesia.

MSCI Plans to Downgrade Indonesia’s Market Status; Dasco Says ‘We’ll Set Our Own Rating’

DPR Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad said Indonesia’s capital market had strong fundamentals and could determine its own direction, responding to MSCI’s proposal to reclassify the country from Emerging Market to Standalone Market. MSCI is consulting market participants over concerns including investability, ownership transparency and alleged coordinated trading, with a final decision due by 30 June 2027.

New Development in BYD Incident That Ran Over Ride-Hailing Driver in South Jakarta: Driver Named as Suspect

Police have named the driver of a BYD electric car as a suspect after it struck several vehicles in South Jakarta, injuring a ride-hailing motorcyclist. Investigators are still examining the case, while the injured man has undergone surgery and remains under observation at Fatmawati Hospital.

Houthi-Saudi Arabia War Continues

Fighting between Houthi forces and Saudi Arabia has intensified, with air strikes in Yemen reportedly killing 16 people and Houthi attacks targeting Aden. The Houthis also warned that Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport remains a military target, as Saudi-led forces reported intercepting missiles aimed at Saudi cities.

Student Movement Wins as Vucic Admits Defeat

Former Serbian president Aleksandar Vucic has conceded defeat in a historic election, ending more than a decade of political dominance as a student-led movement takes a parliamentary majority. The result follows nearly two years of protests sparked by a deadly railway station collapse and focused on alleged corruption and increasingly authoritarian rule; the new movement’s policies and choice of prime minister remain unclear.

Air and Sea in Deadly Tandem: Turkish Drone Successfully Controls PİRANA Kamikaze Boat

Türkiye has demonstrated the integration of aerial and maritime unmanned systems, with a Bayraktar TB2 controlling a PİRANA kamikaze boat during a military exercise in the Mediterranean. The boat, carrying a 100-kilogram warhead, struck a surface target in a test that highlights Türkiye’s expanding cross-domain defence capabilities, although details of the control process have not been disclosed.

Steel Poles Fall from Lorry, Crumpling Car in South Tangerang

Steel poles fell from a lorry in Ciputat Timur, South Tangerang, striking an oncoming Suzuki Ertiga and badly damaging its front. No one was injured, and after a temporary traffic diversion the road was reopened while the remaining poles were being cleared.

Obama Takes Aim at Trump over Iran: Seven Months On, What Is the State of the War?

Barack Obama criticised Donald Trump’s handling of the war with Iran, arguing that diplomacy had previously contained Tehran’s nuclear programme without military action. He cited the 2015 JCPOA, from which Trump withdrew in 2018, as evidence that the conflict’s original justification could have been addressed through an agreement.

Agriculture Ministry Targets Rice Farming Insurance Cover for 100,000 Hectares in 2026

The Agriculture Ministry aims to facilitate rice farming insurance (AUTP) for 100,000 hectares in 2026 to help farmers cope with climate change and extreme weather. The minister said the insurance must be supported by reliable enrolment and claims processes, alongside irrigation, seed provision, technology and agricultural assistance; the article also notes recent rice shipments to Malaysia and Saudi Arabia, with domestic supply safeguards emphasised.

Warning: Operation Patuh 2026 Begins Nationwide Today — The Offences Police Are Targeting

Indonesia’s National Police have launched Operation Patuh 2026, running from 26 October to 8 November, with a particular focus on motorists driving against the flow of traffic. The campaign will combine public education, electronic enforcement and warnings, while measuring success by improved road-user behaviour rather than the number of fines issued.

Legislator Praises National Police Chief for Busting Two Major Drug Cases in North Sumatra and Aceh

Democratic Party and PAN lawmakers have praised National Police Chief Suyudi Ario Seto after authorities made two major drug seizures in North Sumatra and Aceh. The operations seized 1.16 tonnes of ketamine hydrochloride and 1.2 tonnes of liquid and crystal methamphetamine, and exposed networks suspected of having international links.

The Hypocrisy of Singapore and Malaysia over Forest and Land Fires in Indonesia

The opinion piece argues that Malaysia and Singapore are quick to criticise Indonesia over forest fires while benefiting from the palm oil industry through corporate investment, financial services and trade. Drawing on academic research, it describes cross-border business and political networks that can shield companies from accountability, while Indonesian communities and the environment bear much of the harm. It concludes that responsibility for fires cannot fairly be placed solely on the Indonesian government or President Prabowo, particularly given the long history of plantation concessions.

Five Facts About the Revocation of Kristalin Ekalestari’s Mining Permit and the Review of Mining Assets Worth Rp5,400 Trillion

Indonesia’s Investment Ministry/BKPM has revoked PT Kristalin Ekalestari’s production-operation mining permit in Central Papua after it was found to have mined in a forest area without the required approval. Separately, the government plans to evaluate five mining concessions whose reserves President Prabowo Subianto has said could be worth US$300 billion (Rp5,400 trillion).

Cheap Energy Is Not Enough: Indonesia Needs Productive Energy

The article argues that affordable energy alone cannot make Indonesia’s economy competitive; reliability, infrastructure, technology and skilled workers are also needed to turn energy into productivity and higher value. It calls for energy policy to be integrated with industrial development, investment, research and workforce planning, and for success to be measured by the capabilities and domestic value created—not just capacity and prices.

More Advanced Than the US Patriot? Türkiye Successfully Tests SİPER Missile Capable of Switching Targets Mid-Flight

Türkiye says its SİPER Ürün-2 long-range air-defence missile has successfully switched to a new target after launch, a capability demonstrated for the first time in a test. The trial also tested engagement of a low-flying target and forms part of Ankara’s effort to develop an integrated national air-defence system, though the published information does not establish the missile’s autonomy or its effectiveness in combat.

Singapore’s Full Response, from Minister to Prime Minister, to Indonesia’s Gas Supply Cuts

Singapore says Indonesia’s short-term reduction in gas exports—less than 2% of the city-state’s daily needs—should have little effect on electricity prices, while it draws on supply safeguards and diversified sources. Senior officials also stressed contractual obligations, as Singapore monitors the situation amid questions about the timing of the cuts and regional haze-related remarks.

KPK Deputy Chairman Proposes State Confiscation of Officials’ Assets Not Declared in Wealth Reports

KPK Deputy Chairman Johanis Tanak has proposed that the Asset Confiscation Bill allow the state to seize public officials’ assets that exceed their declared wealth or are not reported in mandatory LHKPN filings. He says the measure would strengthen reporting compliance, while also arguing that the bill should retain the term “asset confiscation” and provide a mechanism for officials to challenge seizures.

Maluku Governor Urges APINDO to Expand Investment and Job Creation

Maluku Governor Hendrik Lewerissa has urged the Indonesian Employers Association (APINDO) to boost investment and employment, particularly in the province’s maritime, fisheries, agriculture and tourism sectors. APINDO national chair Shinta W. Kamdani said Maluku’s 4.56 per cent economic growth could be raised through downstream processing, skills development and closer cooperation between government, businesses and workers.

Israeli Media Report Military Defiance as IDF Chief Rejects Netanyahu’s Order to Attack Iran

Channel 12 reports that IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir refused Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s instruction to launch an immediate attack on Iran, insisting on in-depth discussion and signed political authorisation. The report alleges Zamir feared Netanyahu was using the Iran issue for political momentum ahead of Israel’s election, although some Israeli officials have dismissed the account as a “lie”.

Mount Lokon on Alert, with Risks of Toxic Gas and Sudden Eruptions

Mount Lokon in North Sulawesi remains at Level II (Alert), with monitoring recording frequent shallow volcanic earthquakes but no evidence of an overall rise in volcanic activity. Authorities warn of toxic gas, sudden phreatic eruptions and lahars, and have urged the public to stay at least 1.5 kilometres from Tompaluan Crater.

Rain Pours on Banjarbaru, South Kalimantan, After Prolonged Dry Spell, Toppling Trees

Rain accompanied by strong winds hit Banjarbaru and other parts of South Kalimantan after a prolonged dry spell, prompting hopes that it will help extinguish forest and land fires and disperse the haze. The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) warned that heavy rain, lightning and strong winds could continue into Sunday evening, with risks including fallen trees and collapsed buildings.

Prameks Jogja–Kutoarjo Timetable for This Week, 26 October–1 November 2026

The Prameks commuter train between Yogyakarta and Kutoarjo will run five services in each direction during the week of 26 October to 1 November 2026. Fares are Rp 8,000 per journey, with passengers able to book through Access by KAI or use contactless payment methods at station gates; direct-arrival passengers are advised to come early because capacity is limited.

The JCI Shock and Unit-linked Risks

The Jakarta Composite Index plunged 11.57% after MSCI announced a consultation on downgrading Indonesia’s market classification, and has since fallen about 44% from its late-January close. The market turmoil also threatens life insurers and unit-linked policyholders, with the Financial Services Authority saying stress tests show life insurers are more exposed and some firms’ capital adequacy ratios may fall below the 120% threshold.

Jogja-Solo KRL Timetable for 26 October–1 November 2026: Full Morning-to-Night Schedule

The Jogja-Solo commuter rail service runs 15 journeys a day, connecting Yogyakarta with Palur via 12 intermediate stations; one service does not run on weekends or national holidays. The article lists departure times at every station and notes that the fare is Rp 8,000, with the journey taking about an hour.

Klungkung Mobile Driving Licence Service Schedule for Monday, 26 October 2026: Locations and Fees

Klungkung’s mobile driving licence service will operate from two locations on Monday, 26 October 2026, from 9am until service ends. It handles renewals of valid SIM A and SIM C licences only; the article also lists the applicable fees and documents applicants must bring.

Explosion at Belitung Scrap Yard Leaves One Person Seriously Injured

An explosion at a scrap-metal collection site in Tanjungpandan, Belitung, left one scrap collector seriously injured. Police have deployed a bomb-disposal unit to secure and examine the scene, while the cause remains unconfirmed; investigators suspect an item among the scrap may have detonated during weighing or cutting.

From Nationalism to Governance and Capital Market Reform in Indonesia

President Prabowo Subianto’s defiant stance towards MSCI has shifted attention to whether Indonesia can address the index provider’s concerns over ownership transparency and coordinated trading. Recent OJK sanctions and announced disclosure reforms offer an opportunity to strengthen market integrity, but their success will depend on consistent enforcement, measurable results and demonstrable protection for minority investors.

Megawati Says Many People Are Intelligent but Lack Steadfastness

Megawati Soekarnoputri urged young people to pair intellectual ability with strong character, courage and integrity grounded in Pancasila. Speaking at a PDIP festival marking Youth Pledge Day, she called on them to stand up for truth and vulnerable communities while ensuring technological progress is guided by ethical responsibility.

Car Crashes into Semi-trailer on Lampung Toll Road, Killing Six

An Avanza carrying members of one family crashed into a semi-trailer on the Terpeka section of the Lampung toll road, killing six people and seriously injuring three. Police said all victims were taken to hospital; one of those killed or injured was a member of the Tulang Bawang Police.

Arjuno-Welirang Forest Fires Extinguished as Police Investigate Cause

The forest and land fires in the Mount Arjuno-Welirang area were extinguished by 25 October, with rain helping to put out embers in terrain inaccessible to ground crews. Police are gathering evidence and statements to determine the cause of the fires, which began in mid-October and affected four administrative areas.

DIY Has Gone Five Months Without Rain

Yogyakarta Special Region has recorded 161 consecutive days without rain as of early October 2026, the longest dry spell in Indonesia this year. BMKG expects the 2026/2027 rainy season to begin around 30 days later than normal, with very strong El Niño conditions likely to persist into early 2027; it has also warned of possible localised heavy rain, strong winds and lightning.

Kristalin’s Mining Licence in Nabire Revoked; Rosan Says It Ensures Legal Certainty

Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani said the revocation of PT Kristalin Ekalestari’s production-operation mining licence reflects legal certainty and safeguards national natural-resource governance. The decision followed recommendations from the Forest Area Enforcement Task Force and a request from the Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry, after field checks found the company had opened mines in forest areas without the required approval.

Flights at Riyadh Airport Resume After Houthi Attack

Flights have resumed at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh after operations were suspended following Houthi attacks, though only a small number of aircraft have taken off and many services remain cancelled. The attacks reportedly killed 13 people and injured more than 300, while Saudi-led forces said they intercepted at least 10 ballistic missiles as warnings of further strikes were activated in the south.

Hundreds of Professors and Doctors Discuss the Mashhad Razavi Manuscript in Jakarta

Around 160 academics from approximately 70 public and private Islamic universities attended a hybrid international seminar in Jakarta on early Islamic Qur’anic manuscripts. The event examined how the Mashhad Razavi manuscript can illuminate the history of Qur’anic writing, recitation traditions and the development of the codex in early Islam.

Continued Investment in PT CNI’s Nickel Project Seen as Vital to Boosting the National Economy

Ten local and customary organisations in Wolo, Southeast Sulawesi, have voiced support for the continuation of PT Ceria Nugraha Indotama’s nickel investment, citing its contribution to jobs, small businesses and the local economy. They urged the government to weigh these community impacts alongside legal certainty and corporate responsibility, and called for dialogue among the company, residents and other stakeholders.

Downstreaming Investment’s Contribution Rises as Government Focuses on Quality

Investment in downstream industries accounted for 35% of Indonesia’s total realised investment in the third quarter of 2026, up from about 26% in 2024, Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani said. The government says it will prioritise projects that create jobs and transfer technology, while streamlining permits and improving regulatory certainty to support sustainable growth.

OJK Central Sulawesi expands public access to finance through 2026 Financial Inclusion Month

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) in Central Sulawesi has used its 2026 Financial Inclusion Month programme to widen access to financial products and services, promote saving among students and strengthen consumer protection. The province recorded financial literacy and inclusion indices of 60.07% and 88.65%, respectively, while activities including an MSME summit sought to connect small businesses with financing.

Police Arrest Three Suspected Drug Dealers in West Jakarta, Seize 4.38g of Crystal Meth

Police in West Jakarta have arrested three people suspected of involvement in drug dealing and seized 4.38g of crystal meth, along with items including scales and packaging materials. Investigators say one suspect identified two alleged suppliers who are now on the wanted list, and the three detainees tested positive for methamphetamine and amphetamine.

On Following Up the Constitutional Court Ruling on Gibran’s Diploma, PDI-P Opens Dialogue with Other Parliamentary Factions: ‘There Is a Criminal Element’

PDI-P secretary-general Hasto Kristiyanto says the party is open to discussing with other parliamentary factions how to follow up the Constitutional Court’s 2023 ruling concerning Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s candidacy. He alleges that the ruling exposed abuse of power and raises questions over eligibility requirements, KPU regulations and public officials’ ethical standards, while warning that the controversy could undermine the government’s legitimacy.

KPK Deputy Proposes Seizing Officials’ Assets Not Declared in Wealth Reports

KPK Deputy Chairman Johanis Tanak has proposed allowing the state to seize public officials’ assets that are omitted from, or exceed what is declared in, their LHKPN wealth reports. He argues that the proposed asset-forfeiture bill should include a process for officials to challenge seizures and retain its current terminology, which he says is consistent with existing anti-corruption law.

Bill Gates Warns AI Could Transform Workers’ Prospects Worldwide Over the Next 20 Years

Bill Gates says the transition to an AI-driven era of abundance could be deeply disruptive, with office roles and physical jobs increasingly exposed to automation. He warns that the shift may create winners and losers, while stressing that work provides purpose and social connection as well as income.

Megawati to Young People: Master Science and Technology, but Strengthen Your Moral Character Too

Former president Megawati Soekarnoputri urged young Indonesians to develop expertise in science and technology alongside integrity, moral character and commitment to Pancasila. Speaking at Merah Muda Fest 2026, she also called on them to speak out against injustice and drew lessons from the unity shown by youth leaders at the 1928 Youth Congress.

Severe Haze from Forest and Land Fires Persists as Palu Extends Online Schooling

Palu has extended remote learning for students in early childhood, primary and junior secondary schools because smoke from forest and land fires has pushed air quality into the unhealthy range. The city says the measure will remain in force until further notice, while schools are expected to maintain effective learning and provide alternatives for pupils with limited internet access.

Indonesia Cuts Gas Exports, but Singapore Says Electricity Prices Will Not Rise

Singapore’s Energy and Industry Minister Tan See Leng expects Indonesia’s reduction in natural gas exports to have little immediate effect on electricity prices, as the affected volume is less than 2 per cent of Singapore’s total gas demand. Singapore says it can draw on alternative supplies, including LNG, while warning that global gas-price movements remain a bigger concern.

100 East Kalimantan Police Personnel Deployed to Four Fire-Prone Areas, with West Kutai at Greatest Risk

East Kalimantan Police have deployed 100 personnel for two weeks to support efforts against forest and land fires in four districts, with West Kutai identified as the area at greatest risk. The operation combines firefighting support with law enforcement against parties, including companies, found to have deliberately breached land-clearing rules.

Gibran Volunteer Takes Aim at PDIP over 2024 Election Loss; Deddy Sitorus Calls Them ‘Power Parasites Blind to Reason’

A Gibran volunteer leader accused the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) of resenting Gibran and Joko Widodo over its defeat in the 2024 presidential election. PDIP politician Deddy Sitorus dismissed the charge, saying the party had moved on and attacking the volunteer leader as a sycophant serving those in power.

Major Shake-up: 475 Riau Islands Police Personnel Reassigned; See the List of Officials

The Riau Islands Regional Police have reassigned 475 personnel across the provincial force and its local police units, including officers in strategic investigative and command posts. The force says the transfers are intended to refresh the organisation, develop careers and improve police performance and public services.

Hasto Says PDI-P Supports Military Courts Law Revision, Citing Equality Before the Law

PDI-P Secretary-General Hasto Kristiyanto has backed the Constitutional Court’s decision requiring changes to the Military Courts Law, saying all state officials should be subject to equal legal standards. The Court has given lawmakers two years to amend the 1997 law, with Hasto emphasising that military and police personnel serving in civilian posts should face civilian justice for legal violations.

UGM Student Union Writes to ASEAN Secretary-General, Urging Review of Indonesia’s Compliance over Haze from Forest and Land Fires

The UGM Student Union has asked ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn to commission an independent, transparent assessment of Indonesia’s compliance with the regional haze-pollution agreement. It says fires in parts of Kalimantan have persisted for about four months, harming public health, children’s access to education and residents’ right to clean air, while potentially affecting neighbouring countries.

Run a Small Business? Here Are Five Ways to Make Your MSME Better Known and More Appealing to Consumers

Indonesian micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) are advised to understand consumer needs, maintain quality and innovate, and make better use of digital marketing. These steps can help small businesses reach more customers, compete effectively and build sustainable operations.

BPJS Kesehatan Faces Deficit; UGM Academic Urges Revision of SJSN and BPJS Laws: ‘An Old Illness’

UGM health policy academic Laksono Trisnantoro says BPJS Kesehatan’s recurring funding shortfall is a structural problem that requires changes to the laws governing Indonesia’s national health insurance system. He argues that the government’s Rp20 trillion emergency allocation for 2026 is a warning that short-term budget support cannot ensure JKN’s long-term financial sustainability or protect service quality.

100 Artists Showcase Their Work at Nandur Srawung in Yogyakarta Cultural Park

Yogyakarta Cultural Park is hosting the 13th Nandur Srawung visual arts exhibition from 21 to 28 October 2026, featuring 100 artists selected from 264 open-call applicants. Under the theme “Academy: Landscape”, the exhibition forms the first part of a three-year curatorial platform intended to develop young Indonesian artists’ practices, knowledge and networks.

113 Homes Flooded in Cibinong After Kali Sugu Tamu Embankment Breaches

A breach in the Kali Sugu Tamu embankment flooded 113 homes in Pabuaran Mekar, Cibinong, affecting an estimated 205 people after heavy rain. Floodwater also temporarily blocked the Bogor–Depok alternative route, but both residential areas and the road were reported to be receding or passable again by the evening.

Debt Collectors Cause Alarm in Malioboro, Seize Tourist’s Car Despite Cash Purchase from Dealer

A Bandung tourist said a group claiming to be debt collectors tried to take her car while she was visiting Malioboro, despite her having bought the second-hand vehicle in cash from a dealer. Police took both parties to Yogyakarta Police and checked the vehicle’s registration and identifying numbers with Samsat.

Daya Bumi Advisory Expands Digital Investment Education on Campus

Daya Bumi Advisory and SRE Indonesia held a digital economy investment discussion at Telkom University, attracting 150 students to explore industry prospects, investment choices and risks. The event also launched an equity research competition intended to build students’ skills in analysing companies and preparing for long-term investment decisions.

Minimum Free Float Requirement Prompts Some Listed Companies to Go Private

Indonesia’s plan to raise the minimum public shareholding requirement to 15% has left hundreds of listed companies facing compliance deadlines, while several firms have opted to go private. Market observers argue that a uniform threshold may not improve liquidity and could prompt further delistings, recommending a 10% floor and stronger scrutiny of genuinely independent public ownership.

UPNVY Campus Affected by Yogyakarta–Solo Toll Road, Entrance Access to Change

The Yogyakarta Veteran National Development University (UPNVY) says about 3,016 square metres of its land, including part of its front boundary and security posts, will be affected by the Yogyakarta–Solo toll road project. The campus is preparing to relocate its entrance and exit gates, while project schedules and the sequencing of several toll-road sections remain subject to change.

DIY Fishers Receive Fish Fingerlings, Insurance and Safety Equipment

The Fisheries Ministry and House of Representatives Commission IV have distributed fish-farming inputs, insurance, safety gear and processing equipment to fishing and coastal communities in Bantul. The initiative forms part of efforts to strengthen livelihoods and develop the Poncosari Red-and-White Fishing Village as a coastal economic hub, with the ministry targeting 1,369 such sites nationwide by early 2027.

National Economic Council Proposes Revising Corruption Law to Clarify Investment Risks

Indonesia’s National Economic Council (DEN) has proposed changes to the Corruption Eradication Law that would refine how corruption offences are proved, while retaining state-loss provisions and criminal accountability. Pension-fund representatives say clearer rules could help distinguish ordinary investment losses from corruption, but an insurance analyst warns that any perceived weakening of safeguards for state assets could undermine foreign investor confidence; investment decisions will remain subject to fund strategies and financial regulations.

Daya Bumi Advisory expands investment literacy among young people

Daya Bumi Advisory and SRE Indonesia held a campus programme at Telkom University to help students understand investment opportunities and risks in the digital economy, with input from academics and capital-market professionals. The initiative also introduced an equity research competition, extending the effort to build young people’s capacity to assess companies and make informed long-term investment decisions.

LPS: 161 Banks Liquidated, Including Three Rural Banks in Yogyakarta, Due to Fraud and Competition

Indonesia’s Deposit Insurance Corporation (LPS) says 161 banks had been liquidated nationwide by September 2026, including three rural banks in the Special Region of Yogyakarta. The latest Yogyakarta closure was attributed to inability to compete rather than fraud; across the three cases, eligible deposits totalled Rp59.01 billion, while Rp58.51 billion in guarantee claims had been paid.

Kendal SEZ Attracts Fresh Foreign Investment as Chinese Garment Maker Invests Rp203bn

China’s PT Landstar Garment Indonesia has opened its first Indonesian factory in the Kendal Special Economic Zone, with investment planned to reach Rp203 billion by 2028. The factory will focus overwhelmingly on exports to Japan, with production capacity and local employment expected to expand, adding to the zone’s Rp202.06 trillion in investment commitments.

Habiburokhman Praises Police Chief’s All-Out Crackdown on Drugs in North Sumatra and Aceh

DPR Commission III chairman Habiburokhman praised Police Chief Suyudi Ario Seto for personally leading aggressive operations against drug networks, urging police to sustain the effort and pursue major traffickers. Recent operations included the seizure of 1.16 tonnes of ketamine off North Sumatra and the discovery of a large clandestine drug laboratory in Pidie, Aceh.

Indonesian Consulate in Melbourne Connects Indonesian and Australian Businesses at Forum

The Indonesian Consulate-General in Melbourne has held business-matching meetings and is organising a forum on cybersecurity and digital trust as part of Festival Indonesia 2026. The events aim to strengthen commercial links, while bilateral trade has nearly tripled to A$33 billion in five years under the IA-CEPA and investment has grown by 8.4 per cent.

Walking on the Tracks: Person with Mental Illness Causes Concern for Residents and KAI

A person with a mental health condition entered an active railway track at Maguwo Station in Sleman, prompting KAI security staff and police to intervene. The person was safely removed and referred to a psychiatric hospital for further care, while the incident highlighted the dangers posed by entering operational railway areas.

Batu Bolong in Komodo National Park: A Diving Paradise of Coral Reefs and Sharks

Batu Bolong, in Komodo National Park, is a world-class dive site known for pristine coral gardens and abundant marine life, including reef sharks, turtles and manta rays. Strong currents make it suitable mainly for experienced divers, who are advised to dive at slack tide and follow their guides’ safety instructions.

World Travel Awards 2026: Bali Among Asia’s Leading Wedding Destinations

Bali has been named Asia’s Leading Wedding Destination at the World Travel Awards 2026, beating nominees including Cebu, Ko Samui and Langkawi. The recognition extends Bali’s record to seven wins since 2019, reinforcing the island’s appeal to wedding and tourism markets; the article also lists recommended venues across Bali.

A Portrait of the Bajo Sangkuang Settlement in South Halmahera

The Bajo Sangkuang settlement in South Halmahera is home to around 1,750 members of the Bajo community, whose daily lives and livelihoods are closely tied to the sea. Fishing is both an important source of income and an integral part of the community’s everyday life.

Ministry praises Bank Sumut for supporting post-disaster business recovery

The Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises has praised Bank Sumut for helping businesses recover from disasters in North Sumatra, where 607 entrepreneurs from eight localities took part in a business-capacity programme. The bank says its People’s Business Credit (KUR) scheme, with interest subsidies of up to 100 per cent, is intended to widen access to affordable financing and support businesses beyond the recovery phase.

Nearly 265,000 Foreign Nationals Used Trains in Yogyakarta Rail Division by September 2026

KAI’s Yogyakarta operational division recorded 264,335 foreign-national rail passengers from January to September 2026, up 7.8% year on year. Yogyakarta Station accounted for the largest share of both departures and arrivals, reflecting the railway’s role in connecting international visitors with destinations across Yogyakarta, Solo and surrounding areas.

DPR Commission III urges National Police chief to keep up the ‘full-throttle’ fight against drugs

DPR Commission III chairman Habiburokhman has urged National Police chief Suyudi Ario Seto to maintain an aggressive campaign against drugs and dismantle trafficking networks from top to bottom. He praised recent raids on drug factories and distribution sites, saying they demonstrate the state’s resolve and should galvanise police forces across the country.

Indonesia accelerates paddy field development in Merauke to boost productivity

Deputy Agriculture Minister Muhammad Saleh Mustafa has called for an integrated approach to developing paddy fields in Merauke, with support for infrastructure, production inputs and farmer groups. South Papua’s programme targets 45,993 hectares across 2025 and 2026, as the government seeks to raise productivity, advance food self-sufficiency and improve farmers’ incomes through better market access and cooperatives.

ESDM: Shallow volcanic earthquakes dominate activity at Mount Lokon

Indonesia’s Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry says shallow volcanic earthquakes dominated activity at Mount Lokon from 1 to 15 October 2026, while seismic and visual data showed no overall increase in volcanic activity. The volcano remains at Alert Level II, with authorities warning of possible toxic gas, sudden phreatic eruptions and lahar flows, and advising people to stay at least 1.5 kilometres from Tompaluan Crater.

Reda Says 2026 Asian Para Games Success Is in Line with Asta Cita

Indonesia’s Chef de Mission Reda Manthovani said the team’s 15 gold medals at the 2026 Asian Para Games reflected Asta Cita’s commitment to sporting achievement and the empowerment of people with disabilities. Indonesia finished eighth with 73 medals, exceeding its targets, while Reda called for longer national training camps to improve athletes’ physical preparation ahead of future competitions.

Ombudsman Finds Suspected Extortion of Exporters’ Vehicles at Motaain Border Post

Indonesia’s Ombudsman office in East Nusa Tenggara has identified suspected unofficial charges imposed on drivers transporting exports through the Motaain border post to Timor-Leste. The alleged fees total at least Rp200,000 per vehicle, potentially amounting to Rp104 million a month, and the Ombudsman says the claims require further investigation and clarification by the authorities.

Ahead of Youth Pledge Day, Young People Warned About the Onslaught of Foreign Culture

As Indonesia prepares to mark Youth Pledge Day on 28 October 2026, the founders of Sekolah Darurat Kartini have urged young people to learn the country’s history and preserve its cultural values amid growing foreign influences through technology and social media. A cultural dance competition and discussion in Bekasi brought together schoolchildren, with organisers also stressing the role of compassion, cooperation and patriotism in nurturing national unity.

Instead of Online Loans, Gen Z Urged to Borrow from Cooperatives to Grow Businesses

LPDB Koperasi official Deva Rachman urged young people to use cooperatives rather than relying on online loans, saying member-owned businesses can create jobs and expand economic opportunities. Cooperatives can pool members’ resources, develop markets and distribute surplus, with organised communities—including football supporters—offering potential for collective enterprise.

Megawati Urges Young People to Be Not Only Clever but Also Courageous and Principled

Megawati Sukarnoputri has urged young Indonesians to pair scientific and technological skills with moral responsibility, integrity and courage to defend truth and justice. Speaking at a youth event in Jakarta, she said the country’s future depends as much on young people’s character and commitment to the nation as on their knowledge.

Bantul Shops Secretly Sell Hundreds of Bottles of Alcohol

Police seized 283 bottles of alcoholic drinks and two litres of pure alcohol during raids at 10 locations across Bantul, following public reports and routine enforcement operations. The crackdown targeted suspected sellers and distributors, with the largest haul—96 bottles of ciu—found in Jetis.

Bali Governor Weighs Calls for Rp 5.2 Million Minimum Wage

Bali Governor I Wayan Koster says the provincial government is studying demands to raise the 2025 minimum wage to Rp 5.25 million, while the existing national formula would put it at about Rp 3.45 million. He is open to assessing wages against decent-living needs but says the decision must comply with regulations and account for employers’ capacity; unions warn they will continue pressing for a higher rate.

East Kalimantan Police Deploy 100 Personnel to Tackle Forest and Land Fires

East Kalimantan Police have sent 100 personnel to support efforts to contain forest and land fires across four districts for a two-week deployment. Kutai Barat and Paser have been identified as the areas most at risk, while police say the operation will combine firefighting with law enforcement against deliberate land-clearing fires.

Putin Says Europe Is Facing a Migration Crisis

Russian President Vladimir Putin said Europe is facing a migration crisis, arguing that countries have failed to integrate migrants and their children into European society. He also contrasted Europe’s situation with Russia’s multi-ethnic, multi-faith history, while calling for greater attention to inter-ethnic relations within Russia.

WCCE 2026 Promotes Global Collaboration to Strengthen the Creative Economy Ecosystem

The fifth World Conference on Creative Economy in Jakarta is seeking to turn international dialogue into practical partnerships that expand market access, investment and technology adoption for creative businesses. Indonesia is also advancing the Jakarta Vision on Creative Economy as a contribution to the sector’s place in the global development agenda beyond 2030, while a marketplace at the event showcases more than 200 local MSMEs.

Merah Muda Fest Visitors Donate to Kalimantan Forest and Land Fire Victims

Visitors to Merah Muda Fest 2026 in Jakarta were invited to donate Rp15,000 each through QRIS or barcode payments to support people affected by forest and land fires in Kalimantan. Organised by PDI Perjuangan, the festival combined fundraising with activities commemorating Youth Pledge Day and aims to pass all contributions on after the event.

SAR team evacuates injured hiker near Mount Rinjani

A joint Search and Rescue team evacuated 14-year-old Hikmah after she slipped and injured her leg while hiking at Bukit Pergasingan, near Mount Rinjani, in East Lombok. Rescuers reached her in the late afternoon, gave initial medical treatment and carried her to Sembalun Community Health Centre, where she arrived that evening; the operation was closed after she was handed over safely to her family and medical staff.

Free University Tuition Could Leave Private Universities Losing Students, UAD Warns

Universitas Ahmad Dahlan rector Muchlas MT says a proposed government free-tuition programme must include private universities, or students may gravitate disproportionately towards state institutions and intensify recruitment pressures on private campuses. He urges targeted aid based on household welfare data, alongside a clear division of roles between public and private universities.

Cultural Tourism a Strategic Step to Strengthen Indonesia’s Economy, Observer Says

Lanskap Bali says tourism rooted in local culture can strengthen community incomes while preserving traditions and the environment, and argues that development must extend beyond Bali. The proposal aligns with the Prabowo-Gibran administration’s Asta Cita agenda; official figures show rising tourist numbers and higher tourism revenue in monitored tourist villages.

Flooding and Landslides Hit South Aceh, Submerging Four Villages and Affecting National Road

Heavy rain has caused flooding in four villages across two districts in South Aceh, with water reaching adult waist height in some areas. Floodwaters have also covered a national road, while landslides blocked two points on another route; the local disaster agency has deployed crews to clear mud and is monitoring conditions as rain continues.

UGM Denies Charging Visitor Rp129,500 to Use Mats at Wisdom Park

Universitas Gadjah Mada says it did not charge a visitor Rp129,500 to use mats at Wisdom Park, despite a complaint about the tariff circulating on social media. The university says learning activities and outdoor sports are free, while specially organised events and use of certain facilities are subject to permits and applicable charges.

1,000 Tonnes of Flour Aid Arrives in the Gaza Strip

A shipment of 1,000 tonnes of flour has reached Gaza, with an equal-sized delivery expected the following day. The flour will be distributed directly to bakeries through the World Food Programme and cannot be sold on the open market, but aid constraints mean supplies still meet bakeries’ needs for only one day at a time.

Hanura Party prepares modern strategy for 2029 election

Hanura Party says it is adopting data-driven political planning, including surveys and expert consultancy, to strengthen its organisation and improve its electoral prospects in 2029. The party reports that its branch structure in West Sulawesi is nearly 98 per cent complete and is seeking to build a stronger cadre of candidates across constituencies.

Gerindra Politician Urges Public to Examine Constitutional Rules on Vice-President Gibran

Gerindra legislator Azis Subekti says President Prabowo Subianto cannot unilaterally dismiss Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, as any removal must follow the procedures set out in the 1945 Constitution. He also urges the public to read the Constitutional Court’s ruling in full, noting that it did not order Gibran’s dismissal and that impeachment remains subject to constitutional grounds and due process.

Yogyakarta Temperature Reaches 35.2°C as Residents Complain of Heat and Dizziness

Yogyakarta’s maximum temperature reached 35.2°C on 3 October, and the heat is expected to persist through the month amid the dry season and very strong El Niño conditions. The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) advised residents to limit direct sun exposure, stay hydrated and watch for signs of dehydration or heat exhaustion; the current reading remains below the local record of 36.8°C set in October 2024.

Youth protest in Barcelona turns violent; 100 demonstrators arrested

More than 100 people, including minors, were arrested after a youth demonstration in Barcelona escalated into clashes with police, vandalism and fires. Organised through social media and without an official leader or specific cause, the protest was described as echoing demonstrations taking place elsewhere in Europe.

Ubaidillah Amin: Indonesia’s Capital Market Must Be Independent and Not Rely on Foreign Ratings

Nahdlatul Ulama youth figure Ubaidillah Amin says Indonesia should build its own capacity to assess the quality and prospects of its capital market rather than rely continually on foreign rating agencies. He also called for stronger governance, transparency, investor protection, skilled professionals and coordinated policy to make the market a more resilient investment destination.

Cabinet Secretary: President Receives Update on URI Leadership Education Progress

President Prabowo Subianto met Universitas Republik Indonesia Governor Donny Ermawan Taufanto to discuss the university’s leadership education and training programmes. The update included 384 participants in the President’s Programme for Future Leaders, who are scheduled to begin internships in January and February 2027, as well as plans for a new campus building in Bogor.

Good News: Provincial Government Offers Vehicle Tax Discounts Until 19 November

Maluku’s provincial government is offering a 40% reduction on overdue vehicle tax principal for taxpayers with arrears of at least one year, alongside discounts for timely payers and a first-year exemption for vehicles transferred into the province. The relief runs until 19 November 2026 and is intended to ease residents’ tax obligations while improving regional revenue collection.

As War Costs Mount, Obama Takes Trump to Task

Barack Obama blamed Donald Trump’s war with Iran for rising oil, diesel and consumer prices, arguing that diplomacy had previously curbed Iran’s nuclear programme without military action. Trump said he was considering renewed strikes while leaving the door open to negotiations, and Iran’s army was ordered to maintain its highest combat readiness.

Identity of Human Remains Found in Bantul Pajangan Revealed as Family Recognises Dental Features

A family has identified human remains found in Guwosari, Bantul, as those of 33-year-old local resident Muhammad Rofingi, recognising distinctive features of his teeth. Police said the remains were handed over to his family after physical characteristics were matched; the remains had been discovered by a resident searching for birds.

MP praises North Sumatra Governor’s ban on civil servants using vapes

A member of the House of Representatives has praised North Sumatra Governor Bobby Afif Nasution’s prohibition on vaping by civil servants and other public-sector workers, saying it could help prevent the misuse of narcotics. The governor’s instruction, issued to local governments across the province, calls for monitoring and disciplinary sanctions; the MP has urged that it be strengthened into a regional regulation.

Japan deploys long-range missile launcher in drills with US

Japan used its Type-25 long-range anti-ship missile launcher for the first time in a joint exercise with the United States, part of the Keen Sword drills involving tens of thousands of personnel and eight participating countries. The deployment highlights Japan’s shift towards acquiring counterstrike capabilities, a policy change that has prompted concerns about the risk of miscalculation and pre-emptive action.

Mayor Oking Road in Cibinong Resembles a River as Flooding Leaves Motorcycles Stalled

Heavy rain caused flash flooding on Mayor Oking Road in Cibinong, forcing motorcyclists to push bikes that had stalled after water entered their engines. Bogor Regency’s disaster agency said blocked drainage contributed to the road flooding, while a burst embankment also inundated homes in Pabuaran Indah to a reported depth of one metre.

Jambi task force provides logistical support to firefighters tackling blazes

Jambi’s Forest and Land Fire Task Force has delivered food and medicine to firefighters battling blazes across several areas, while deploying teams, fire engines and equipment to contain the fires. Crews have extinguished some fires but face inaccessible hotspots and difficult peatland terrain, where flames can spread underground.

South Korea Reveals Plans to Open a Bali Consulate

South Korea plans to establish a consulate in Denpasar to improve services and protection for its citizens in Bali, with the ambassador stressing that security is vital to maintaining tourist confidence. Talks with Bali Governor Wayan Koster also covered potential cooperation in clean energy, transport, digital technology and AI, and waste management, as well as support for local businesses and sustainable development.

Farm-gate Chilli Prices Fall, So Why Are They Still High in Markets?

Farm-gate chilli prices have fallen over the past fortnight, but retail prices remain elevated as drought limits production and lengthy supply chains add costs. The National Food Agency says supplies are sufficient ahead of Christmas and New Year, while distribution—particularly by sea—will be key to preventing regional price spikes.

Seven Red and White Fishing Villages Planned in Yogyakarta, Fisheries Ministry Aims to Help Fishers Move Up the Value Chain

Indonesia’s Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries plans to establish seven Red and White Fishing Villages in Yogyakarta, including one already built in Bantul in 2025 and six more scheduled for 2026. The national programme aims to turn coastal areas into economic hubs through infrastructure, cooperative support and training intended to improve fish quality and fishers’ incomes.

Jumbo and Pandji’s Comedy Bring WCCE 2026 to Life

At the 2026 World Conference on Creative Economy, filmmaker Ryan Adriandhy and comedian Pandji Pragiwaksono discussed how distinctly Indonesian stories can resonate with international audiences. They also highlighted the opportunities and structural challenges facing Indonesia’s creative industries, including limited performance venues, costly rental models and the concentration of opportunities in Jakarta.

More Than 3.3 Hectares of Land and Rp5.4 Billion in Cash: Assets Seized and Frozen by Bareskrim in the FH Case File

Indonesian police have seized and frozen 110 land and building assets, as well as nearly Rp5.4 billion in cash, in the case involving PT Dana Syariah Indonesia, aiming to recover victims’ losses. The seizure includes assets held by affiliated parties and companies; meanwhile, 5,102 victims have claimed restitution totalling about Rp1.07 trillion.

Police Raid Manado Drug Den, Arrest Four and Seize 111 Methamphetamine Packages

North Sulawesi police arrested four people during a raid on suspected drug-trafficking locations in Manado, seizing 111 packages of methamphetamine weighing 51 grams. The operation involved 20 officers, and investigators say they will develop the case further.

Yogyakarta Vocational School Aid Funds Embezzled of Rp125 Million Using Fake Activities

Bantul police have named a 44-year-old man as a suspect in the alleged corruption of Rp125 million in government aid for a vocational school programme in 2023. Investigators say fictitious activities were listed in progress reports to secure the second instalment, while an audit found the full amount disbursed had become a state loss.

Salary Gone Too Quickly? How to Manage Your Money and Avoid Running Short at Month-End

Digital payments, online shopping promotions and buy-now-pay-later services can make spending difficult to track, leaving even young workers on modest or higher salaries short of cash. The 50-30-20 budgeting rule offers a framework for dividing income among essentials, lifestyle spending and savings or investments, with practical steps for controlling each category.

KJRI Melbourne Holds Festival to Showcase Indonesian Culture and MSMEs

The Indonesian Consulate General in Melbourne drew more than 6,000 visitors to its annual festival, featuring performances, regional cuisine and products from Indonesian micro, small and medium-sized enterprises. Now in its 13th year, the event also promoted consular support and domestic-violence awareness, while officials highlighted the opportunity to encourage Australian tourists to explore destinations beyond Bali.

Moestar Urges Indonesians to Strengthen Dialogue and Democratic Maturity

Moestar Putra Jaya, chair of the Jayabaya University Foundation, says Indonesia should learn from protests in Europe by addressing public grievances early through responsive policies and open communication. He argues that peaceful protest and criticism are democratic rights, while government and public figures must help prevent tensions escalating into violence that harms communities and economic activity.

Police Arrest Three Suspected Drug Offenders in West Jakarta’s Tambora

Police in West Jakarta have arrested three people suspected of involvement in narcotics offences, seizing 4.38 grams of suspected methamphetamine and items allegedly linked to drug distribution. Investigators say two other suspects are being sought and are tracing the source of the drugs, which were allegedly obtained in a quantity of about 30 grams.

Yogyakarta Palace Siren Sounds Unexpectedly: What Was the Warning?

A siren mounted above Plengkung Nirbaya, also known as Plengkung Gading, at the Yogyakarta Palace sounded for about five minutes on Saturday night, alarming nearby residents. Police said no emergency was found and an initial assessment suggested an electrical fault, possibly a short circuit, although the cause has not been confirmed.

Indonesia’s digital shift: From connectivity to growth and protection

Indonesia’s digital transformation has expanded internet access and supported a growing digital economy, with the government targeting faster broadband, wider investment and stronger technology talent. As it enters its third year, the administration is prioritising AI governance, personal data protection and child safety online, while seeking to ensure connectivity generates inclusive growth and public trust.

Festival Negeri Kami Brings Together 38 Provinces on One Stage at TMII

Festival Negeri Kami 2026 has opened at Taman Mini Indonesia Indah, bringing representatives from all 38 Indonesian provinces together to showcase their regional arts and traditions. The Culture Ministry said the event can educate the public about Indonesia’s diversity, while also highlighting culture as an economic asset and supporting the preservation and development of cultural heritage.

Danantara’s Three Strategic Priority Sectors for 2027

Danantara plans to prioritise critical minerals, downstream processing and digital infrastructure—including data centres and artificial intelligence—in its investment strategy for 2027. It is also exploring projects in food security, low- and zero-carbon energy, and education, while the fund’s chief investment officer says it has begun buying Indonesian shares, particularly those of state-owned companies.

Not Just Jakarta: The Cities with the Highest Cost of Living

KHL figures compiled by the Manpower Ministry, the National Economic Council and Statistics Indonesia show that Jakarta has the country’s highest decent-living-cost estimate, at nearly Rp5.9 million a month. The data also highlights high costs in resource-rich, island and remote regions, and KHL figures are used as one consideration in setting minimum-wage increases.

Tracing the Youth Pledge: Keeping the Spirit of Unity Alive Among Young People

A heritage walk at Merah Muda Fest 2026 in Jakarta marked the 98th Youth Pledge Day and looked ahead to the pledge’s centenary in 2028. The event encouraged young people to sustain national unity through creativity, collaboration and concern for others.

Kapuk Youth Organisation Marks Youth Pledge Day

The Karang Taruna youth organisation in RW 007, Kapuk, West Jakarta, held a Youth Pledge Day event promoting youth participation, Indonesian arts and culture, and environmental awareness. Local officials praised the initiative as a model for other neighbourhoods and urged continued opportunities for young people to develop their creativity and contribute to their communities.

Police seize 75 grammes of methamphetamine from alleged dealer in West Jakarta’s Cengkareng

Police in Cengkareng have arrested a man suspected of dealing drugs and seized 75.78 grammes of suspected methamphetamine. Officers also confiscated packaging, a digital scale, a mobile phone and a motorbike; the suspect faces charges under Indonesia’s Narcotics Law and a 2026 criminal penalties adjustment law.

Bicara Udara Urges Runners to Highlight Pollution Risks and the Right to Clean Air

Bicara Udara used the Jakarta Running Festival 2026 to encourage runners to check air-quality information and promote clean air as a public-health concern and a right. The organisation launched an educational guide and introduced mobile monitoring in Jakarta, while also drawing attention to the unequal effects of pollution and the impact of forest and land fires in Kalimantan and Sumatra.

JCI Surges 4.9% in a Week as Indonesia’s Capital Market Shows Resilience Amid Pressure

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) rose 4.9% in the week to 23 October, despite continued foreign net selling that brought the year-to-date total to Rp94.87 trillion. OJK chief Friderica Widyasari Dewi attributed the rebound to domestic buybacks and retail investors, while pointing to listed companies’ earnings, market disclosure rules and enforcement efforts as supports for confidence amid MSCI scrutiny.

MITTE Bintaro Officially Opens, with 90% of Staff from South Tangerang

The newly opened MITTE Bintaro culinary destination says about 90% of its employees are residents of South Tangerang, a commitment welcomed by the city’s mayor as a boost to local jobs and economic activity. Officials also said the venue could support small businesses, creative industries and regional revenue, while its integrated food and communal-space concept reflects intensifying competition in the local culinary sector.

Danantara Targets US$30 Billion in Investment at Asia Forum

BPI Danantara aims to mobilise US$30 billion in investment through DTIIF 2026 and The New Asia Forum, scheduled for 3–4 December in Bali. The target is not a binding commitment, and its delivery will depend on whether investor interest becomes project-level financing amid currency, cost and governance risks.

Motorcycle Wrecked as Man from Magelang Dies after Hitting Power Pole in Badung

A 33-year-old man from Magelang, Central Java, died after his motorcycle struck a roadside electricity pole in Badung early on Sunday. Police said he was travelling at high speed and classified the incident as a single-vehicle crash; his body was taken to Prof Ngoerah General Hospital in Denpasar.

Putin Denies Russia Is Behind Wave of Demonstrations Across Europe

Vladimir Putin has rejected claims that Moscow provoked protests in several European countries, attributing the unrest instead to domestic political failures, including economic and financial policy mistakes. Protests have taken place in France, Italy, Albania, Belgium and Spain, over issues ranging from living costs to demands for political change.

Danantara Chief Warns Investors Against Buying Shares Solely Because Prices Have Fallen

Danantara CIO Pandu Sjahrir has urged investors to assess companies’ fundamentals rather than treating falling share prices as an automatic buying opportunity, amid concerns over MSCI’s proposed reclassification of Indonesia’s equity market. He highlighted profitability, growth, cash flow, debt and governance, while noting that some large companies—particularly in banking and consumer sectors—combine strong returns on equity with low price-to-earnings ratios.

Police Secure Scrap Metal Yard Blast Site in Belitung

Bomb-disposal officers have secured the site of an explosion at a scrap metal collection yard in Belitung, where one person was seriously injured. Police suspect an item of scrap metal may have detonated while being weighed or cut, but are awaiting a full examination and warn collectors to report suspicious objects.

BPK Finds Four Loss-Making Airports Managed by PT Angkasa Pura Indonesia

Indonesia’s Audit Board (BPK) says four airports operated by PT Angkasa Pura Indonesia have recorded negative financial performance, while the company remains liable for fixed contributions of Rp171.10 billion and investment commitments totalling Rp3.62 trillion. BPK attributes the risks partly to unrealistic passenger-traffic projections and warns that the obligations could strain the company’s liquidity and financial performance.

Megawati Urges Young People to Master Science and Technology and Strengthen National Character

Former president Megawati Soekarnoputri has urged Indonesia’s younger generation to develop scientific and technological expertise while upholding integrity, courage and Pancasila values. Speaking at Merah Muda Fest 2026, she invoked the Youth Pledge’s history and called on young people to turn patriotic celebrations into concrete action.

Gold Prices Could Fall to Rp 2.39 Million per Gram Next Week, Forecast Says

Gold and precious-metal prices are expected to remain volatile next week, with bullion forecast to trade between Rp 2.39 million and Rp 2.69 million per gram. Analyst Ibrahim Assuaibi also expects a stronger US dollar, rising oil prices and a weaker rupiah, citing escalating geopolitical tensions in Europe and the Middle East as key drivers.

Prabowo Meets URI Governor in Hambalang to Discuss P3MD and Campus Construction

President Prabowo Subianto met Universitas Republik Indonesia Governor Donny Ermawan Taufanto at his residence in Hambalang, where they discussed the P3MD leadership programme and progress on the university’s campus facilities. Donny reported that 384 participants are scheduled to undertake internships in January and February 2027, while the government said URI is intended to help prepare capable, nationally minded future leaders.

Renewable Energy Shares: Prospects and Recommendations for BREN, PGEO, KEEN and TOBA

Indonesia’s renewable energy expansion targets under the 2025–2034 electricity plan could create growth opportunities for BREN, PGEO, KEEN and TOBA, although project delivery, electricity tariffs, valuations and cash-flow conversion remain key considerations. Analysts highlight potential benefits from regulatory changes and solar development, while flagging company-specific operational, governance and profitability risks; recommendations include buy or accumulation strategies for selected shares.

Foreign Policy: Saudi Arabia’s Bet on Trump Ends in a Security Disaster

An analysis by Foreign Policy’s Nicholas Grossman argues that Saudi Arabia’s close ties and substantial investments in Donald Trump’s circle did not secure the kingdom’s interests as the US war with Iran destabilised the Gulf security order. Disruptions to energy routes and Riyadh’s reliance on US military protection have exposed the limits of personal diplomacy and the need for independent defence capacity.

PDIP Welcomes PKS’s Invitation to Pursue Gibran’s Diploma Controversy in Parliament

PDIP Secretary-General Hasto Kristiyanto says his party is open to dialogue with other parliamentary factions over the controversy surrounding Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s qualifications and the Constitutional Court ruling. He also called for forest-fire prevention measures, including reforestation, a moratorium on forest conversion and tougher penalties for those responsible for damage.

Indonesia’s Economic Growth Exceeds Global Average, Airlangga Reports 5.45% Expansion

Co-ordinating Economic Affairs Minister Airlangga Hartarto told President Prabowo Subianto that Indonesia’s economy grew 5.45% cumulatively in the first half of 2026, above the cited global average of about 3% and, according to his comparison, the highest rate in the G20. The figures cover year-on-year growth for the six-month period, while separate indicators cited by the government include manufacturing PMI at 52.4, consumer confidence at 118.1 and a trade surplus of 7.25.

10 Vegetables to Replace Rice in Your Diet: Rich in Nutrients and Fibre

Starchy vegetables and legumes can provide fibre, vitamins and minerals, and may serve as alternatives to rice when eaten in appropriate portions. The article outlines ten options and recommends paying attention to portion size and preparation, particularly for people managing blood sugar or following a low-carbohydrate diet.

Iran: Shipping Routes Through the Strait of Hormuz Will Never Be the Same After the War

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi says the war with the United States and Israel has created new realities for the Middle East and that shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, as well as its management, will change permanently. Tehran and Washington remain at odds over control of the strategic waterway, with diplomacy stalled after a temporary agreement in June.

Explosion at Scrap Metal Yard Causes Alarm; Police Investigate Triggering Object

Police are investigating an explosion at a scrap metal collection site in Tanjungpandan, Belitung, which left one scrap collector seriously injured. Bomb-disposal officers are examining the scene to establish the cause and rule out further hazards; investigators suspect an object among the collected metal may have exploded during weighing or cutting, but this has not been confirmed.

JK at Yale: Advanced Weapons Do Not Guarantee Victory

Former Indonesian vice-president Jusuf Kalla told an audience at Yale University that advanced weaponry alone does not determine the outcome of modern conflicts; strategy, resilience and the ability to operate technology are also decisive. He also urged the international community to put humanity at the centre of responses to global crises, including armed conflict and natural disasters.

Gibran Diploma Controversy: PDI-P Opens Dialogue with PKS

PDI-P says it is willing to discuss the controversy over Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s diploma with the Prosperous Justice Party (PKS), with party secretary-general Hasto Kristiyanto alleging that the Constitutional Court’s 2023 ruling involved an abuse of power. PKS has separately said it will consult other parliamentary factions and consider proposals including an inquiry or the right to express an opinion, while parliament is in recess.

Higher Education Minister Seeks to Strengthen University Leadership, with Research and Industry Links in Focus

Higher Education, Science and Technology Minister Brian Yuliarto says leadership training for university rectors can improve campus governance and foster research and industry collaboration. The programme, organised by the Indonesian Association of Private Higher Education Institutions, is expected to expand to university leaders and academic units nationwide, while also giving the ministry feedback on its policies and services.

Wildfire Closes in on Elephant and Deer Routes in Lampung’s Way Kambas National Park

Residents say forest and land fires have surrounded routes used by wild elephants and other wildlife in Way Kambas National Park, prompting locals to join a response team in fighting the blaze. Park officials say the fire is on the boundary with a company in Central Lampung Regency, not in the park’s core area or the Elephant Conservation Centre.

UNM’s Margonda Information Systems Programme Aims to Develop Future Digital Talent

Universitas Nusa Mandiri’s Margonda campus has introduced an undergraduate Information Systems programme designed to meet industry demand for professionals with technology, data-analysis and business skills. The university says students will gain practical experience and can apply through its online admissions service, with fee promotions and scholarships available during the current intake.

Tito Among Top Five Merah Putih Cabinet Ministers for Performance

Home Affairs Minister Muhammad Tito Karnavian ranked among the five ministers receiving the most positive performance assessments in an Indonesia Political Opinion (IPO) survey, with 12 per cent. Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman led the poll at 33 per cent; the survey interviewed 1,200 respondents across Indonesia between 12 and 20 October 2026.

Government postpones mandatory halal certification for MSMEs until 2028

The government has postponed the deadline for mandatory halal certification for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) until 2028, after many businesses failed to meet the original target. The delay, ordered by President Prabowo Subianto in response to business owners’ concerns about the administrative burden, will give the government time to develop a workable approach that balances legal requirements with MSMEs’ capacity.

NASA Highlights Indonesia’s Forest and Land Fires, Issues Special Warning

NASA says fire activity in Kalimantan and Papua has surged in 2026 amid El Niño-driven drought, raising the risk of substantial carbon emissions. Fires have already generated unusually high emissions in Papua, while smoke has disrupted flights and schools and worsened air quality; researchers say many blazes are ignited by human activity and can spread out of control in dry conditions.

A Dozen Residents Regret Looting Burnt Snack Warehouse

Police in Bengkulu detained 12 people, including adults and students, on suspicion of taking snacks from a warehouse after it caught fire. The suspects reportedly took quantities ranging from several packets to about 120, and later apologised in a video, promising not to repeat the offence.

Eating Before Bed Can Raise Blood Sugar Levels

Eating a large meal rich in sugar and refined carbohydrates shortly before sleeping may raise blood sugar overnight, particularly for people with prediabetes or diabetes. Research has linked a short gap between dinner and bedtime with a higher risk of type 2 diabetes, although it does not establish that late-night eating directly causes the condition.

How the IDX Composite Performed Over the Week After the IDX Removed HSC Stocks

The IDX Composite rose 4.90% in the week to 23 October 2026, while daily trading value and market capitalisation also increased after the Indonesia Stock Exchange announced changes to the index’s constituent-selection criteria. Despite the gains, foreign investors netted out Rp1.28 trillion, and the exchange adjusted the lower auto-rejection limit for certain low-priced shares through the end of the year.

Babel Brimob Bomb Squad Secures Scrap-Metal Yard After Explosion

A bomb-disposal unit from the Bangka Belitung police mobile brigade has secured the site of an explosion at a scrap-metal yard in Belitung after a scrap collector was seriously injured. Police suspect an object among the scrap may have detonated during weighing or cutting, but say the cause remains under investigation and are checking for further hazards.

Students Should Develop Problem-Solving Skills During University

Universitas Nusa Mandiri says students should build problem-solving abilities throughout their studies to prepare for the demands of professional work. The university is using case studies, group projects, research and interactive discussions to strengthen analytical thinking, while presenting mistakes as valuable opportunities to learn.

Pelalawan Police Distribute Food Parcels in a ‘Police with the Community’ Initiative

Pelalawan Police and the Pelalawan branch of the National Zakat Agency distributed 140 food parcels to residents in the coastal area of Kuala Kampar. The operation highlights efforts to support communities with limited access to services and strengthen ties between police and residents in remote waterside areas.

Iran says the Middle East will be transformed after the war

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi says the conflict with the United States and Israel has created new realities across the Middle East, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz. Tehran and Washington remain at odds over control and freedom of navigation in the strategic waterway, while diplomatic talks have stalled amid rising tensions.

IPO Poll: Amran, Sugiono and Tito Among Ministers Rated as Top Performers

An Indonesia Political Opinion (IPO) survey found that Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman received the highest rating among ministers, at 33%, while Home Affairs Minister Muhammad Tito Karnavian was rated at 12%. The poll, conducted among 1,200 respondents nationwide in October 2026, offers a snapshot of public perceptions of ministers’ performance.

OIC Condemns Houthi Missile Attacks Said to Have Targeted Makkah and Madinah

The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation condemned reported Houthi missile launches towards Saudi cities, including areas near Makkah, and urged Muslim countries to unite against the group. Saudi authorities said two ballistic missiles were intercepted and debris fell at several locations, while the Houthis denied targeting the holy cities and said their operations were aimed at oil facilities and military bases.

Preserving Heritage Areas to Safeguard Their Character

Preserving cultural heritage areas is not about preventing all change, but managing new development so it responds to contemporary needs while respecting the area’s defining character. Architect Nadia Purwestri says infill buildings should be recognisably contemporary rather than imitating historic structures, and should not overwhelm their heritage surroundings; such projects must also comply with Indonesia’s cultural heritage and spatial planning regulations.

Plengkung Gading Siren Suddenly Wails, Panicking Jogja Residents

A siren atop Plengkung Gading in Yogyakarta sounded unexpectedly for about five minutes on Saturday night, alarming nearby residents. Police said there was no emergency and suspected an electrical short circuit; residents and local officials switched off its power.

Gerindra Legislator Responds to Prolonged Dispute Over Gibran’s Diploma

Gerindra lawmaker Azis Subekti says President Prabowo Subianto has no authority to dismiss Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka unilaterally. He argues that removal must follow the constitutional impeachment process, and that the Constitutional Court’s ruling neither annulled Gibran’s position nor ordered his dismissal.

Fishermen Protest as Green Energy Project Is Blamed for Falling Catches and Flooding

Fishermen and residents on Sri Lanka’s Mannar Peninsula say a wind-power project has coincided with declining catches, flooding and worsening access to safe drinking water. The government has frozen new projects in the area and is studying flood mitigation, but residents say promised action has not materialised, highlighting tensions between renewable-energy ambitions and local livelihoods.

Clean Water Crisis in Trenggalek Affects 43,000 People

A clean water shortage in Trenggalek, East Java, has affected more than 43,000 people across 14 sub-districts and 67 villages, according to the local disaster management agency. University of Jember alumni volunteers have delivered water to residents in Kedungsigit village, supporting efforts to meet households’ basic needs.

Central Jakarta City Administration backs creative economy development to deliver tangible benefits

Central Jakarta Deputy Mayor Eric PZ Lumbun says the creative economy should generate business opportunities and jobs, contributing directly to economic growth. The Pusatphoria 2026 event brought together creative-sector activities and workshops for 100 vocational students, as the city administration seeks to strengthen collaboration and opportunities for young people.

Flash Flooding on Jalan Mayor Oking in Cibinong Leaves Several Motorcycles Stalled

Heavy rain caused flooding on Jalan Mayor Oking in Cibinong, Bogor, forcing several motorcyclists to push their stalled vehicles through water that submerged their wheels. Bogor’s disaster management agency said the road flooding had receded, while a separate flood in a Pabuaran housing area reached one metre after an embankment failed; teams were pumping water from affected homes as they assessed the damage.

Bahtsul Masail Forum Examines the Ruling on Planting Oil Palm on Land Deliberately Burnt in Forest Fires

A national Bahtsul Masail forum has ruled that planting oil palm and other industrial crops on land deliberately burnt in forest and land fires is forbidden under Islamic law. Its six recommendations also call for stronger penalties, protection of Indigenous communities and forests, review of a legal exemption for customary burning, and passage of an Indigenous Peoples law.

Police Uncover Stockpiling of 3.3 Tonnes of Subsidised Diesel in Bengkulu After Residents’ Tip-Off; Four Detained

Police in Rejang Lebong, Bengkulu, say they uncovered the alleged stockpiling of 3.3 tonnes of subsidised biodiesel after receiving a report from residents. Four local men were detained, and vehicles and fuel-storage equipment were seized as investigators prepare to consult the downstream oil and gas regulator, BPH Migas.

PDI-P Secretary-General Reaffirms Commitment to Nurturing Young Leaders of Character

PDI-P Secretary-General Hasto Kristiyanto says the party aims to give young people a platform to develop as future leaders, with an emphasis on science, technology and social responsibility. The message was delivered at Merah Muda Fest 2026 in Jakarta, part of events marking the 98th anniversary of the Youth Pledge, despite references in the article to preparations for its centenary in 2028.

Pramono Claims Jakarta’s Air Pollution Fell for Two Days After Weather Modification

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung said weather-modification operations helped reduce air pollution during the Jakarta Running Festival and a Kanye West concert on 24–25 October, citing air-quality index readings of 61 in the early morning and 80 by midday. He said rain was induced in several areas but avoided at Gelora Bung Karno during the concert, and that the Jakarta administration has budgeted to continue the operations when cloud conditions allow.

Sarmuji officially installs IAS as South Sulawesi Golkar chairman

Golkar secretary-general Muhammad Sarmuji has installed Ilham Arief Sirajuddin as chairman of the party’s South Sulawesi provincial board for 2025–2030. Sirajuddin says the new leadership will seek to increase the party’s votes and seats by 50 per cent, with organisational consolidation across the province targeted for completion by December 2026.

DSLNG Pledges to Improve Energy-Use Efficiency

PT Donggi Senoro LNG (DSLNG) says it is improving energy-use efficiency through innovation and optimisation of its existing facilities. Its system engineering and reuse of boil-off gas cut total flaring by 49 per cent, exceeding a 40 per cent target, and earned the company a 2026 Subroto Energy Award for Best Technology Innovation.

IPO Survey: 66% of the Public Satisfied with Prabowo’s Performance

A survey by Indonesia Political Opinion (IPO) found that 66% of respondents were satisfied with President Prabowo Subianto’s performance, while 34% were dissatisfied to some degree. Respondents cited anti-corruption efforts and social assistance among factors shaping their views, but identified staple-food price controls, corruption and job creation as urgent priorities for the government.

Why Did Prabowo Summon the Head of the Republic of Indonesia University to Hambalang?

President Prabowo Subianto met University of the Republic of Indonesia Governor Donny Ermawan Taufanto in Hambalang to discuss the university’s leadership education and training programmes. The governor also reported on 384 participants in a presidential future-leaders programme, who are due to begin internships in January and February 2027, and progress on a university building in Bogor.

Indonesia’s Best-Selling Cars in 2026: Consumers Begin to Turn Away from the Mass-Market LCGC

Indonesia’s car industry association says rising electric-vehicle adoption is putting pressure on sales of low-cost green cars (LCGC), once a highly successful segment with a 24% share of national car sales. In September 2026, BYD Atto 1 led wholesale EV sales with 4,840 units, well ahead of the Jaecoo J5 EV and Geely EX2, although wholesale figures measure deliveries to dealers rather than purchases by end customers.

PT PAL boosts defence technology self-reliance through KSOT and torpedo development

PT PAL Indonesia says its autonomous unmanned submarine (KSOT) and Piranha torpedo have received an ASEAN engineering award, recognising technologies designed and developed by Indonesian engineers. The company says the projects support domestic defence-industry capabilities, including a domestic-content level of more than 50 per cent for the KSOT, and are being advanced alongside university partnerships.

Indonesia’s MSME Financing Gap Reaches US$50.8 Billion a Year

Indonesia Impact Alliance estimates that the country’s MSME financing gap stands at US$50.8 billion annually, with growing businesses particularly constrained in accessing capital of US$100,000 to US$2 million. At the 2026 Indonesia Impact Investment Summit, government, investors and business leaders discussed ways to expand funding through locally tailored finance, blended financing and stronger coordination between investors and business-support programmes.

Musim Mas Completes Five-Year Programme for Independent Smallholders in Aceh, Strengthening Oil Palm Farmers’ Livelihoods

Musim Mas has completed a five-year programme in Subulussalam, Aceh, training 117 government agricultural extension officers who went on to reach 2,239 independent smallholders across 48 villages. The initiative combined sustainable farming and financial training with environmental monitoring, and its results point to a collaborative supply-chain model for improving livelihoods while reducing deforestation risks.

Apple’s First Foldable Phone, the iPhone Duo, Fails Extreme Durability Tests

Apple’s first foldable phone, the iPhone Duo, failed several extreme durability tests, with debris entering its titanium hinge and damage rendering the inner flexible display unusable. The findings highlight vulnerabilities common to first-generation foldables, despite the device’s IP68 rating; replacing the inner screen is estimated to cost around US$1,000.

Singapore Embassy Denies Reports of Visits by Dino Patti Djalal and Saiful Mujani, Calls Them Disinformation

Singapore’s embassy in Jakarta and former deputy foreign minister Dino Patti Djalal have denied social media claims that Dino and academic Saiful Mujani visited the Singapore ambassador’s residence on 18 October 2026. Dino said he was in Perth at the time and alleged the posts were intended to damage his reputation and intimidate people expressing views publicly; the embassy said it would work with Indonesia’s Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs to address the disinformation.

Deputy Creative Economy Minister: Creative Economy Must Unite People Without Discrimination

Deputy Creative Economy Minister Irene Umar said the 2026 World Conference on Creative Economy in Jakarta should foster inclusive global growth and turn dialogue into practical partnerships, investment and technology access. The event also showcases more than 200 local small businesses and will produce the Jakarta Vision on Creative Economy, intended to strengthen the sector’s role in global development beyond 2030.

Japan, US and South Korea explore exporting nuclear reactors to Indonesia

Japan, the United States and South Korea are considering exporting jointly developed next-generation small modular reactors (SMRs) to Indonesia, as part of a government-backed initiative to offer an alternative to Russian and Chinese nuclear technology. Malaysia and the Philippines are also potential destinations, with the three countries dividing design, construction and equipment-manufacturing roles.

SGN prepares 1,000 water pumps to safeguard sugar cane productivity at Rendeng Sugar Factory

PT Sinergi Gula Nusantara is preparing 1,000 water pumps for sugar cane farmers supplying Rendeng Sugar Factory in Jepara, Central Java, to improve irrigation and protect crop yields. The initiative forms part of efforts to strengthen the sugar industry’s upstream supply chain and support Indonesia’s national sugar self-sufficiency target.

PKS Wants to Discuss Gibran’s Diploma Controversy in Parliament; PDI-P Ready to Engage

PDI-P says it is open to dialogue after PKS proposed building cross-party support in Parliament to address public concerns over Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s educational credentials. The dispute has broader political implications, with PDI-P’s Hasto Kristiyanto arguing that it raises questions about constitutional requirements, ethics and the legitimacy of leadership, while PKS says it will first consult other parliamentary factions.

Danantara to Award Scholarships to 800 Students Each Year: Here Are the Requirements

Danantara Indonesia Trust plans to channel at least US$100 million a year to government-backed social programmes, including education, healthcare and clean water. Its Asa Nusantara scholarship initiative will support 800 undergraduate and vocational students in STEM and health fields, prioritising applicants from disadvantaged communities, while two other initiatives target water and sanitation and healthcare staffing.

Singapore Embassy Denies Saiful Mujani and Dino Patti Djalal Visit

Singapore’s embassy in Jakarta and former deputy foreign minister Dino Patti Djalal have denied social media claims that he and Professor Saiful Mujani visited the ambassador’s residence on 18 October 2026, describing the reports as disinformation. Dino said he was in Perth at the time and plans to raise the matter with Indonesia’s communications minister, warning that coordinated false posts could intimidate people expressing views publicly.

Bahlil Named Most Popular Minister in IPO Survey

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia topped the Indonesia Political Opinion (IPO) survey, leading in both top-of-mind recognition and overall popularity among ministers. He also recorded the strongest popularity and satisfaction ratings among economic ministers, while other ministers led the political-security and law categories.

PGN Installs Nearly 50,000 Household Gas Connections in Surabaya

State-owned gas company PGN has installed nearly 50,000 household natural gas connections in Surabaya, against a target of 59,900 for 2025–2026. The company is expanding the network in stages and conducting safety and service outreach, with further coverage planned for Lontar and other neighbourhoods.

Yangon Embassy to Hold Indonesia Expo 2026 to Strengthen Bilateral Ties

Indonesia Expo 2026 will bring together Indonesian and Myanmar businesses, universities and associations to promote trade, investment, education and tourism partnerships. The event comes as bilateral trade reached about US$1.03 billion in 2025, with Indonesia recording a substantial trade surplus and importing rice from Myanmar to support domestic food needs.

Motorcyclist Hit by Commuter Train After Crossing Barrier at Pasar Minggu

A motorcyclist was seriously injured after being struck by a Nambo–Jakarta Kota commuter train at a level crossing near Pasar Minggu station. KAI Commuter reiterated that road users must stop when warning signals sound and give priority to passing trains, as required by Indonesian law.

Jakarta reports improved air quality after two-day weather operations

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung said a two-day weather-modification operation helped lower pollution and improve conditions during the Jakarta Running Festival. The provincial government plans to continue the operations when funding and cloud conditions permit, while coordinating to avoid disruption to major public events.

Japanese carmakers cut development time to catch up with China

Japanese automakers are trying to shorten vehicle development cycles as Chinese rivals bring new models to market more quickly. Nissan, Honda, Toyota, Suzuki and Mitsubishi are pursuing shared platforms, AI and digital tools, and simpler parts strategies, with targets ranging from two to three years for new models.

Rejang Lebong Police uncover stockpiling of 3.3 tonnes of subsidised fuel

Police in Rejang Lebong, Bengkulu, say they have uncovered the alleged stockpiling of 3.3 tonnes of subsidised biosolar and detained four suspects. The case began with a public tip-off and is being investigated under Indonesia’s Oil and Gas Law, with police planning to consult an expert from the downstream oil and gas regulator, BPH Migas.

Houthis Attack Two Holy Cities; Grand Mosque Imam Says Muslims Are Being Targeted with Malice

Sheikh Abdulrahman Al-Sudais condemned repeated Houthi missile and drone attacks aimed at Makkah and Madinah, calling the holy cities’ security a red line. Saudi air defences also intercepted multiple attacks on Riyadh and other areas, while authorities partially reopened King Khalid International Airport despite the continuing threat.

Creative Economy Ministry Launches Three Strategic Initiatives at WCCE 2026, Targeting 27.4 Million Creative Workers

Indonesia’s Creative Economy Ministry unveiled three initiatives at the 2026 World Conference on Creative Economy: a data model developed with WIPO, an economic outlook produced with Katadata, and a national talent-development platform. The sector grew by about 6.8% in 2025, employed 27.4 million people and generated US$31.9 billion in exports; the initiatives aim to strengthen evidence-based policy, productivity and creators’ ability to earn from their work.

Four Renewable Energy Stocks Face Different Catalysts and Prospects

Indonesia’s BREN, KEEN and TOBA have distinct growth drivers, ranging from geothermal and power-generation expansion to a proposed acquisition and waste-management investment. The article outlines company targets and market catalysts, including BREN’s planned buyback, KEEN’s new hydropower capacity and TOBA’s proposed funding of up to S$555 million, while noting that the investment proposals remain subject to shareholder approval where applicable.

Garut Agriculture Office Estimates 7,869 Hectares of Rice Harvest in October

Garut Regency expects rice to be harvested across 7,869.07 hectares in October 2026, with irrigation supporting crops despite the dry season. Drought has caused 221.40 hectares to suffer total crop failure, while January–September production of harvested dry paddy rose from the same period last year.

Creativillage 2026: A Space to Explore Creative-Economy Ideas and Works

Creativillage 2026, part of the World Conference on Creative Economy, is giving visitors an interactive way to discover Indonesia’s creative-economy sector at Village Two MGP Space in Jakarta. The exhibition also gives creative-industry players an opportunity to present their ideas, innovations and work to a wider public.

PDI-P backs Military Court Law revision following Constitutional Court ruling

PDI-P has backed a Constitutional Court ruling requiring revisions to the Military Court Law, saying civilian justice and equality before the law must apply to state officials, including military and police personnel. Parliament and the government have two years to amend the 1997 law; otherwise, it will be deemed unconstitutional and lose binding legal force.

‘Tabola Bale’ at WCCE 2026: Teuku Riefky Wants Creators to Prosper

Creative Economy Minister Teuku Riefky Harsya says industry growth must translate into greater value and sustainable livelihoods for creators, not just higher investment, exports and employment. At the World Conference on Creative Economy in Jakarta, the government launched data, outlook and talent-development initiatives and endorsed the Jakarta Vision on Creative Economy to strengthen the sector at home and globally.

DPR Commission XI Responds to Prabowo on MSCI, Says Indonesia’s Economy Is Built on the Strength of Its People

DPR Commission XI chairman Mukhamad Misbakhun said President Prabowo Subianto’s remarks on MSCI underscored the strength and resilience of Indonesia’s economy, while urging caution amid pressure on the stock market. He said the commission regularly reviews the capital market and that Indonesia is working to rebuild investor confidence and meet international stock-market governance standards.

Lawamena Clinic Takes Healthcare Services Directly to Wayame Residents

Lawamena Main Clinic and partner health organisations provided free examinations, screenings and consultations to residents of Waringin Cap in Wayame, as part of Open Clinic Day 2026. The outreach also included home visits for people with mental health conditions and aims to bring healthcare closer to communities in Maluku.

Indonesia to Prepare Global Partnership Forum to Protect Coral Reefs

Indonesia’s embassy in Washington, D.C., and the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries are planning a forum next spring to bring together international financiers and conservation organisations to protect the Coral Triangle. The initiative aims to turn international support into financing, knowledge-sharing and practical programmes, building on earlier conservation partnerships and linking reef protection with food security, the blue economy and coastal livelihoods.

KAI Divre IV Adds 196 Level-Crossing Attendants to Strengthen Safety

KAI’s Tanjungkarang regional division has added 196 level-crossing attendants, bringing its total to 380 across 49 crossings. The staffing increase is intended to strengthen monitoring and help prevent accidents in Lampung and parts of South Sumatra.

Health Minister Budi Warns of PM2.5 Pollution Danger in Palangka Raya

Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin has warned that thick haze in Palangka Raya, Central Kalimantan, has driven PM2.5 pollution to very high levels. He urged residents to ensure masks fit properly and seek medical care if they develop severe coughing or shortness of breath.

Why Is the US Dollar Continuing to Strengthen, Pushing the Rupiah Towards Rp18,000 per US Dollar?

The rupiah remains under pressure as the US dollar strengthens, with US Treasury yields above 5% encouraging investors to favour US assets over emerging markets. Bank Indonesia also cited capital outflows, global and domestic pressures, and MSCI’s announcement of discussions about classifying Indonesia’s stock market as a standalone market as factors weighing on the currency.

Construction of 259 Merah Putih Cooperative Outlets in Gresik Completed

Gresik has completed construction of 259 outlets for its Merah Putih village and urban-ward cooperatives, while six remain under construction and 91 have yet to begin. The regency is also preparing 190 cooperatives for operational-readiness verification, with officials stressing that success depends on productive businesses, professional management and effective governance.

Modular Homes Erected for Earthquake-Affected Residents in China’s Xizang

The first modular homes have been erected for residents affected by a magnitude-7.0 earthquake that struck Baqen County in Nagqu, Xizang, on 24 October. Residents of a village in Maru are the first group set to benefit, with installation beginning on Saturday.

Indonesia Cuts Gas Exports as Singapore Turns to LNG and Considers Nuclear Energy

Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong said the country’s gas importers would take necessary steps to protect their contractual rights after Indonesia reduced pipeline gas exports. Singapore says the short-term supply cut is limited, while continuing to assess nuclear power as a long-term option alongside LNG imports to diversify its energy supply.

West Kalimantan Deputy Governor Urges Singkawang Trail Tourism Event to Become National Fixture

West Kalimantan Deputy Governor Krisantus Kurniawan has urged organisers to develop Singkawang Trail Wisata into a national and international event, promoting local tourism and supporting the community economy. The 2026 event drew about 1,100 participants, with local officials highlighting its potential to boost small businesses and promote Singkawang as a sports tourism destination.

Spicy, Aromatic Jumbo Tuna Jaw in Mataram: A Filling Meal for Just Rp35,000

A Mataram seafood restaurant has gone viral for its generously sized grilled tuna jaw, served with rice and accompaniments for Rp35,000. Diners praise its distinctive spice-rich flavour, hearty portion and affordable price, while the restaurant also offers a range of other seafood dishes.

World’s 10 Safest Countries: Indonesia’s Ranking Falls

The 2026 Global Peace Index says global peacefulness has deteriorated, with armed conflict a major driver. Iceland remains the world’s most peaceful country for the 19th consecutive year, while Indonesia’s score fell by 2.5 per cent, leaving it 69th globally amid weaker public safety and security indicators and rising political instability and political terror.

Malang city government asks police to investigate Supit Urang landfill fire

Malang city government has asked local police to investigate a fire at Supit Urang landfill, which has affected about 15 hectares across its old and new landfill areas. The mayor said video footage suggests someone may have deliberately burned bamboo thickets nearby to clear land for an orange orchard, while police say they are still examining evidence before determining whether a suspect can be named.

Viral Video Shows Dutch Tourist in Fight with Man in Manokwari; Police Step In

Police in Manokwari are investigating an assault involving a Dutch tourist and a local resident after footage of their confrontation circulated on social media. The police chief said specialist and rapid-response teams have been deployed to find the assailant, while urging the public to remain calm and avoid taking the law into their own hands.

SBY Recalls Memories with Widodo AS, from the 1998 Crisis to Safeguarding Indonesia’s Unity

Former president Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono paid tribute to retired admiral Widodo AS, recalling their years of service together and Widodo’s role during Indonesia’s 1998 crisis. Yudhoyono praised his commitment to the constitution and national unity, while TNI Commander Agus Subiyanto described him as a professional leader and role model for younger officers.

Indonesia Drafts Creative Economy Blueprint at WCCE 2026

Indonesia used the 5th World Conference on Creative Economy in Jakarta to advance a blueprint for the sector, the Jakarta Vision on Creative Economy, intended to strengthen its role in the post-2030 global development agenda. Officials said the event would foster practical collaboration and access to markets, investment and technology, while creative marketplace Pasar Wiwitan showcased more than 200 local MSMEs.

Efficiency Is Not Enough: SOE Development Needs a Long-Term Business Plan, Analyst Says

SOE analyst Herry Gunawan says the government’s streamlining of state-owned enterprises can reduce overlapping operations, but must be guided by a five- to ten-year development roadmap. He argues that BP BUMN and Danantara should identify strategic priorities—including strengthening domestic refining capacity to reduce dependence on imports—so consolidation supports national industrial needs.

BPK Member Fathan Subchi Dies While on Assignment in Moscow

Fathan Subchi, a member of Indonesia’s Supreme Audit Agency (BPK) for the 2024–2029 term, has died aged 56 while carrying out an audit assignment in Moscow. BPK paid tribute to his service and extended condolences to his family.

Elon Musk Becomes an Investor in Company Behind Film Criticising Him

Elon Musk has reportedly invested US$1 billion in Skydance, the media company whose subsidiary HBO is due to air a documentary examining controversies surrounding him in 2027. The investment has raised questions about whether the film will go ahead, although Skydance has reportedly assured director Alex Gibney that it will, and there is no evidence Musk has sought to block or alter it.

Joint Officers Step Up Monitoring along Cianjur’s Southern Coast

Joint officers in Cidaun, Cianjur, have increased patrols and warnings along the southern coastline as extreme weather brings waves of up to five metres. The move follows two recent maritime accidents in which fishermen went missing, prompting officials to urge fishermen and visitors to stay away from the shore and avoid going to sea until conditions improve.

Smoke Haze in Ambon: Lawamena Clinic Distributes Free Masks and Vitamins

Lawamena Main Clinic distributed free masks and vitamins at two locations in Ambon as smoke haze from forest and land fires affected air quality. The initiative formed part of Open Clinic Day 2026, which also brought free health services to residents of Wayame, and included advice for people to limit exposure and seek medical care if symptoms develop.

Forest and Land Fire Smoke Threatens Children as PM2.5 Particles Reach the Lungs

A paediatrician has warned that fine PM2.5 particles in smoke from forest and land fires can penetrate deep into children’s lungs and trigger inflammation with wider effects on the body. Children face greater risks because their airways are smaller and they breathe faster, prompting calls for parents to take smoke exposure seriously and watch for respiratory symptoms.

As Interest Rates Move, Islamic Banks Remain Agile Without Crossing the Line

Although Bank Indonesia kept its benchmark rate at 5.75 per cent on 21 October 2026, it raised the Deposit Facility rate and gradually eased reserve requirements for Islamic banks, shifting liquidity conditions and market return benchmarks. The article argues that Islamic banks can adjust new financing and investment products to market conditions, but must honour existing contracts, clearly disclose risks and protect customers while maintaining competitiveness.

Tecno Megabook K15S Officially Launches in Indonesia: Specifications at a Glance

Tecno has launched the Megabook K15S in Indonesia, featuring a 15.6-inch Full HD display, AMD Ryzen 5 7430U processor and 70 Wh battery. The laptop is priced from Rp8.599 million and includes nine ports, upgradeable memory and Tecno’s OneLeap device-integration feature.

Hunger Threatens Gaza Again: ‘What Will We Eat Today?’

Families in Gaza fear a renewed wave of hunger as food supplies dwindle, fruit and vegetables become scarce, and soaring prices put remaining goods beyond many people’s reach. Displaced father Mohammed Shurrab says the prospect of another food crisis has revived painful memories and urges international actors to intervene before conditions worsen.

Practitioner: Temon District Can Become a Driving Force for Kulon Progo’s Economy

Tourism practitioner Kus Endarto says Temon’s proximity to Yogyakarta International Airport gives it the potential to drive Kulon Progo’s economy, provided arriving passengers are encouraged to stay, spend and visit local attractions. He proposes an international-standard, multi-purpose indoor arena near the airport to boost MICE tourism and attract a regular programme of major events, addressing low hotel occupancy in the area.

Pramono Opens Taman Harapan Seventh-day Adventist Church, Reaffirms Jakarta as a Home for Diversity

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has inaugurated the Taman Harapan Jaya Seventh-day Adventist Church in East Jakarta, describing the capital as a home where all residents should be able to worship and live without discrimination. The church is 80 per cent complete and has received Rp40.8 million in operational assistance from the provincial government; its congregation also thanked the governor for helping secure its building permit.

Wildfire at Way Kambas National Park: Fire Burns Along Elephant Route

A fire has broken out along a wildlife corridor in Way Kambas National Park, where wild elephants and other animals, including deer, travel. Local residents and a joint response team are helping to contain it; the park’s head says the blaze is at the boundary with a company’s land, not in the park’s core conservation area.

Indonesia Cuts Gas Exports as Singapore Seeks Alternative LNG Supplies

Singapore is seeking alternative international LNG supplies and expanding import capacity after Indonesia redirected gas to meet domestic power-generation needs. The curtailed volume is expected to be less than 2% of Singapore’s daily gas demand, but the move highlights the importance of diversifying supplies and regional energy cooperation.

Complaints Over Kota Bambu Pedestrian Bridge Prompt Pramono to Order Urgent Repairs

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has ordered the city’s Bina Marga agency to repair the Kota Bambu pedestrian bridge after complaints that it is inaccessible to disabled people and older residents. The bridge serves an area near major hospitals, and officials have yet to specify whether repairs will include a lift, ramps or other accessibility improvements.

Houthis and Saudi-led Coalition Launch Large-Scale Attacks on Each Other

The Houthis and the Saudi-led coalition exchanged missile, drone and air attacks, with both sides reporting strikes across Yemen and Saudi Arabia. The escalation reportedly caused civilian casualties in Yemen and came amid a government-backed offensive against Houthi forces, prompting the United States to update travel advisories for several Middle Eastern countries.

Sumbing Mountain Wildfires Extinguished, Affecting 974 Hectares

Wildfires on Mount Sumbing in Central Java have been extinguished after burning a total of 974 hectares across Wonosobo, Temanggung and Magelang. Authorities and volunteers will continue monitoring the area; helicopter water-bombing was called off because of poor weather.

Video: Automotive Businesses Rely on This Type of Car to Boost Sales

Gaikindo chairman Jongki D. Sugiarto says incentives for hybrid vehicles could help lift car sales, citing their fuel efficiency, lower emissions and continued use of locally produced parts. The association estimates that around 800,000 vehicles could be sold in 2026, rising towards 900,000 with hybrid incentives, while cars priced below Rp300 million account for 60% of annual domestic sales.

Get Ready: Global Central Banks Set to Influence Markets Next Week

A packed calendar of central-bank decisions and economic releases from 26 to 30 October 2026 is expected to shape global markets, with implications for the rupiah, bond yields and foreign capital flows. Investors will focus on the Federal Reserve, ECB and Bank of Japan, alongside US and eurozone growth and inflation data that could alter expectations for interest rates.

With ETLE in Place, Are Manual Traffic Tickets Still Needed?

Former House of Representatives member Soeharno Panca Atmaja says manual traffic enforcement remains necessary for serious offences that electronic traffic law enforcement (ETLE) cameras cannot reliably capture. He argues that a transparent, selective combination of manual and electronic enforcement could improve road safety, particularly in areas with limited camera coverage.

Boat Breaks Down, Leaving Two Sikka Fishermen Adrift at Sea

Two fishermen whose boat suffered engine failure off Talibura, Sikka, were rescued safely by a joint search-and-rescue team on Sunday. The operation concluded after they were brought ashore at Mageramut Pier and handed over to their families.

Singapore Embassy Denies Dino Patti Djalal and Saiful Mujani Met the Ambassador: Visit Never Took Place

Singapore’s embassy in Jakarta has dismissed social media claims that former Indonesian deputy foreign minister Dino Patti Djalal and political observer Saiful Mujani visited the ambassador’s residence on 18 October 2026, calling them disinformation. The embassy said it would work with Indonesia’s Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs to address the spread of the claim; Djalal said he was in Perth for a climate-change event and had not met Mujani.

Rustini urges children affected by forest and land fires to stay motivated in their studies

Rustini Muhaimin Iskandar encouraged children affected by forest and land fires in South Kalimantan to continue studying, reading and pursuing their ambitions despite disruption caused by the fires. She said making reading enjoyable can help nurture confident, well-informed children with high aspirations.

Volkswagen plans to cut an additional 12,000 jobs by 2030

Volkswagen is reportedly planning to eliminate a further 12,000 jobs by 2030 as part of a cost-saving drive, on top of more than 35,000 positions covered by an earlier workforce optimisation programme. The company says the cuts will be handled in a socially responsible way, while IG Metall has threatened strikes from 2027 amid upcoming collective bargaining talks.

UN Secretary-General Concerned by Israel’s Closure of the West Bank

UN Secretary-General António Guterres has voiced deep concern over Israeli closures imposed on Palestinian communities in the West Bank, saying they restrict movement, access to essential services and livelihoods. He also condemned settler violence and raised concerns about demolitions and displacement in Hebron, civilian deaths in Gaza and limits on humanitarian aid ahead of winter.

10 Prospective Domestic Workers Allegedly Held Captive by Agency in Surabaya

Ten prospective domestic workers were found at a Surabaya recruitment agency after two people sought help from a municipal patrol, raising suspicions that they had been held against their will. The city has temporarily sealed the premises over concerns about possible human trafficking and business licensing, while authorities coordinate their return to their home regions.

Fishermen Find Human Remains on Selayar Beach

Two fishermen found human remains on Bonesialla Beach in Selayar Islands Regency, South Sulawesi. The remains are believed to be those of a 65-year-old fisherman who went missing while fishing in late September; authorities say further examination was needed to confirm his identity and cause of death before he was buried in his home village.

Protests Sweep Several Italian Cities, with Clashes Reported

Demonstrations over the rising cost of living, military expansion and increased arms spending took place in several Italian cities, with clashes between protesters and police reported in Bologna, Rome and Turin. After unrest and looting the previous weekend, Italy deployed additional police, while Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni called for the protection of peaceful demonstrators and the public.

Schizophrenic Man Who Killed Indonesian National in Germany Avoids Prison Sentence

A German court has ruled that the 27-year-old man who killed Indonesian national Isaac Hansen Averino cannot be held criminally responsible because he has paranoid schizophrenia. Instead of prison, he will receive treatment in a forensic psychiatric facility for an indefinite period, with release dependent on his recovery and the risk he poses to the public. The victim’s family says the ruling is legally appropriate but cannot ease their grief.

SCG Integrates ESG to Strengthen Business Sustainability in Indonesia

SCG says embedding environmental, social and governance (ESG) principles in investment decisions and operations helps it manage risk, improve efficiency and maintain long-term competitiveness in Indonesia. Its initiatives include emissions targets, alternative fuels and raw materials, and a waste-to-fuel facility developed with the Sukabumi Regency Government.

Economists Say 6% Growth Target Will Be Difficult to Achieve

A survey by LPEM FEB UI found that 59% of 63 economists consider the government’s 6% growth assumption for 2027 the macroeconomic target least likely to be met. Respondents also flagged the Free Nutritious Meals programme and Merah Putih Village Cooperatives as the government agendas most at risk of falling short of expectations.

One Human Rights Data System: When Technology Is Not the Goal

Indonesia has built more than 27,400 government applications, but the proliferation has led to duplicated functions, disconnected services and fragmented data. The article argues that agencies should identify and assess existing data sources and pursue data-sharing before creating new systems, so digitalisation can support integration and evidence-based policymaking.

Jasa Marga Schedules Toll Road Maintenance: Check the Timings

Jasa Marga says its subsidiary will carry out periodic toll-road maintenance to preserve infrastructure, meet minimum service standards and improve road safety, with some work scheduled overnight to limit disruption. The company says major reconstruction can take one to four days and warns that overloaded vehicles are a key cause of pavement damage.

Germany to Require Social Media Platforms to Prioritise Public Broadcasters’ Content

German state governments are considering a draft agreement that would require social media platforms to ensure one in every five posts is informative material from public-service broadcasters or other media approved as contributing to diversity of opinion. The proposal would give qualifying outlets priority in recommendation algorithms, while private and independent media would have to apply for eligibility; consultation runs until 13 November, after which state governments and regional parliaments must approve the draft.

Tri Tito Combines Work Meetings of Dekranas, PKK and Posyandu to Cut Costs

Tri Tito Karnavian has brought the work meetings of Dekranas, the Family Welfare Movement (PKK) and Posyandu together in a single forum to improve budget efficiency and coordination. The meeting also involved government bodies discussing regulatory and regional funding support, with the stated aim of sustaining programmes and delivering tangible benefits to communities.

British Ship Sinks After Attack, Leaving Thousands Dead

The German submarine U-20 torpedoed the British passenger liner RMS Lusitania off Ireland in May 1915, killing around 1,200 people, including about 130 Americans. The article recounts the wartime context and the ship’s rapid sinking, as well as enduring speculation over whether a second explosion was caused by secret explosives aboard.

Sumedang develops Revolper to boost rice productivity

Sumedang regency is expanding its Revolusi Pertanian (Revolper) programme, combining improved cultivation methods, quality seeds and stronger irrigation to raise rice yields and farmers’ incomes. Initial plot results reportedly show productivity gains approaching 100 per cent, while the regency’s 2025 rice production was 294,000 tonnes against annual consumption needs of about 103,000 tonnes.

A Bureaucratic Culture of ‘Looking Busy’ Is Not Enough

The article argues that the success of President Prabowo Subianto’s priorities depends not merely on policy design, but on a capable civil service that delivers measurable benefits to the public. It calls for merit-based appointments and an independent body to oversee the civil-service merit system, warning that weak staffing decisions can undermine state capacity and public services.

Five Activists and Students from Bima Arrested in Mataram on Suspicion of Methamphetamine Distribution

West Nusa Tenggara police have arrested five activists and students from Bima on suspicion of involvement in methamphetamine distribution, seizing 28.24 grams of suspected drugs and other items. The arrests followed reports of alleged transactions at a boarding house in Mataram; police say their investigation is continuing.

Pramono Anung Bars DKI Civil Servants from Meetings if Late, Even by Two Minutes

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung says civil servants who arrive one or two minutes late may be asked to leave meetings, as he seeks to instil a more disciplined, corporate-style work culture in the provincial administration. The report does not clarify whether the policy is a formal rule for all DKI Jakarta civil servants or a practice applied in meetings he chairs, nor how urgent circumstances will be handled.

Airlangga: MSCI Cannot Dictate to Global Investors

Coordinating Economic Affairs Minister Airlangga Hartarto says any downgrade of Indonesia’s equity market by MSCI could be mitigated because global investors also use benchmarks such as S&P and FTSE Russell. The government and market authorities have until June 2027 to address MSCI’s concerns, including raising the minimum public shareholding (free float) to 15% and pursuing stock exchange demutualisation.

Two PKB Officials Remember BPK Member Fathan Subchi as a Hard Worker

Two officials from the National Awakening Party (PKB) have paid tribute to Fathan Subchi, a member of Indonesia’s Supreme Audit Board (BPK), recalling his hard work, kindness and accessibility. The BPK said Subchi died on 25 October 2026, aged 56, while on an official visit to Russia.

Indonesia extends rice aid to low-income households through December

President Prabowo Subianto has approved a further phase of rice assistance for 33.2 million recipients, with one million tonnes allocated through December. The programme provides each household with 10 kilograms a month for three months, distributed in one instalment, to help secure food supplies and ease the impact of high and fluctuating prices.

Agriculture Minister: President Prabowo’s policies boost Lampung farmers’ purchasing power

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman says lower fertiliser costs, stronger commodity prices and a halt to cassava imports are improving farmers’ purchasing power in Lampung. The province reports rising vehicle purchases and economic activity, while the government cites a record Farmers’ Terms of Trade of 131.11; the article cautions that vehicle sales alone do not prove the gains stem entirely from farm incomes or policy.

Pramono Says Jakarta’s Air Pollution Was Low for Two Days, Making Residents ‘Happy’

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung attributed two days of low air pollution to cloud-seeding operations ordered by the provincial government. He said rainfall was directed towards areas around the city while avoiding the Gelora Bung Karno stadium so that the Jakarta Running Festival and a concert could proceed without disruption.

Investors No Longer See the US Dollar as a Safe Haven, Turning to Two Other Currencies

ING says market volatility driven by concerns over artificial intelligence and rising oil prices has prompted investors to favour the Japanese yen and Swiss franc over the US dollar. The shift reflects how the source of a shock can shape safe-haven flows, but does not signal an end to the dollar’s central role in global finance.

Indonesia has significant potential to adopt cloud-native technology

Arupa Cloud Nusantara and Civo have launched a sovereign public cloud region in Jakarta, offering Kubernetes, virtual machines and related services with local operations and customer data kept under Indonesian jurisdiction. The launch expands local options for companies modernising applications, with the partners highlighting cost transparency, local support and plans to introduce GPU services in December 2026.

Muhammadiyah’s LPHU Consolidates KBIHUs to Strengthen Services for Hajj Pilgrims

Muhammadiyah’s Hajj and Umrah Development Institute (LPHU) has convened a national meeting to consolidate its Hajj and Umrah Guidance Groups (KBIHUs) and improve services for pilgrims. Its chair says closer cooperation could unlock significant economic opportunities, from Hajj training and supplies to souvenirs and Umrah services.

Dozens of Riders Race at Swank Rally during Tabanan’s Slidetober Fest 2026

Sixty local and international riders took part in the Swank Rally, held at Ciputra Beach Resort in Tabanan as part of Deus Ex Machina’s three-day Slidetober Fest. Organisers said the festival celebrates motorcycling and surfing, while the event is intended to showcase the coastal venue and support sport tourism and the local economy.

Agriculture Minister Amran prepares pumps and tractors to help Lampung farmers

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman has pledged free seeds, three water pumps and five hand tractors to support farmers in Pringsewu, Lampung, including those whose crops failed across about 300 hectares. The government will also examine irrigation options and extend access to agricultural machinery assistance to planting labourers, aiming to restore production and strengthen food supplies.

MSCI Reviews Capital Market: What Needs to Be Fixed to Maintain Confidence?

MSCI has warned that shortcomings in transparency, trading integrity and market oversight could put Indonesia’s access to its emerging- and frontier-market indices at risk. The country must demonstrate tangible reforms and effective enforcement before MSCI’s review concludes in June 2027.

Hekrafnas 2026 a chance to expand Indonesia’s creative markets

Indonesia’s National Creative Economy Day 2026 is being used to promote collaboration and commercialisation of intellectual property to help creative products reach wider domestic and international markets. The government says initiatives including Creative by Indonesia will connect local talent and cultural assets with industry and buyers, while events with Gekrafs involved partners across Indonesia and overseas.

Police Investigate Viral Claim That Intoxicated Youths Caused Bogor Fire

Police are investigating the cause of a fire that destroyed three shops on Jalan Suryakencana in Bogor, after social media claims blamed intoxicated youths. The mayor said preliminary indications point to an electrical short circuit, potentially worsened by batteries from an electric bicycle, but the investigation is ongoing.

Indonesia–Myanmar Business Opportunities to Expand Through Indonesia Expo 2026

The Indonesian Embassy in Yangon will host Indonesia Expo 2026 on 30–31 October, bringing together 39 Indonesian companies, educational institutions and associations with 19 Myanmar businesses. The event will promote trade, investment and education ties, with planned business and university cooperation agreements alongside product showcases and public activities.

A Bajo Community in Bajo Sangkuang, South Halmahera

Bajo Sangkuang in South Halmahera is home to around 1,750 members of the Bajo ethnic group, whose main livelihood is fishing, according to the local government. The photographs document the community’s coastal settlement and daily life in North Maluku.

Mandiri Bullion Bank Services Expand Access to Gold Investment

Bank Mandiri is expanding its bullion banking services, offering gold savings, instalment financing and physical gold collection through a single ecosystem. The services are accessible via Livin’ by Mandiri, with small minimum transaction sizes and a network of gold ATMs and branches; the bank’s app had 42.6 million registered users as of September 2026.

Commission IX Urges Young People to Uphold the Spirit of Unity Behind the Youth Pledge

DPR Commission IX Deputy Chair Charles Honoris has urged young people to preserve national unity and draw inspiration from Indonesia’s Youth Pledge of 1928. A commemorative 3-kilometre walk retraced historic sites in Jakarta, and forms part of preparations leading up to the pledge’s centenary in 2028.

Haze from Forest and Land Fires Blankets Kapuas, Visibility Falls to 100 Metres

Thick haze from forest and land fires has reduced visibility in parts of Kapuas, Central Kalimantan, to between 100 and 200 metres, prompting officials to urge residents to take precautions. Authorities report 13 fires covering 865 hectares and 1,595 hotspots as of 24 October, with Mantangai accounting for most of the hotspots.

Forest and Land Fires Spread Across Java; BNPB Reports Fire Hotspots

Indonesia’s National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) reported continuing forest and land fires in West and Central Java, with crews still monitoring and suppressing blazes in Kuningan while fires in Ciamis and Grobogan have been put out. No fatalities were reported, and the causes of the Kuningan and Ciamis fires remain under investigation; the Grobogan fire was reportedly triggered by residents burning rubbish.

Denza Reveals New Interior Colours for N8 Ahead of Launch

BYD’s premium brand Denza has unveiled four interior colour schemes for its N8 electric vehicle ahead of pre-orders opening in China on 26 October 2026. The model is also set to feature a 30-inch central touchscreen and claims a range of up to 1,003 kilometres, while pricing and final variant details remain undisclosed.

PTPN IV PalmCo Strengthens Emergency Smoke Mitigation Measures Amid Forest and Land Fires

PTPN IV PalmCo has expanded its preparations for smoke emergencies linked to forest and land fires, combining real-time hotspot monitoring with additional equipment and trained response teams. The company has also distributed clean water and masks to affected communities in Kalimantan, while coordinating its response with local authorities and promoting land clearing without fire.

Baleg Deputy Chairman: Fathan Subchi Expected to Arrive from Russia on Monday

BPK member Fathan Subchi’s body is expected to arrive in Jakarta on Monday after being flown from Russia, where he died while on duty in Moscow. He is to lie in state and receive Muslim funeral prayers at the BPK office and a family home in East Jakarta before burial in Central Java.

Pertamina-supported SMEs: From preserving batik to reaching international markets

Three SMEs supported by Pertamina illustrate how business growth can create wider social and cultural benefits, from preserving batik traditions to empowering women, people with disabilities and local artisans. Adhimas Batik has expanded its products and educational activities, while Pertamina’s training and exhibition support has helped it reach overseas markets; the article also profiles Yogyakarta creative venture Joglo Ayu Tenan.

IDEC 2027 to Return to Jakarta with a Showcase of Dental Innovations

The fifth Indonesia Dental Exhibition & Conference will take place in Jakarta on 19–21 November 2027, bringing together dental professionals, suppliers and manufacturers. Organisers aim to attract 250 brands and 7,000 visitors, positioning the event as a platform for professional development and innovation that supports Indonesia’s ambitions in health tourism.

Beijing’s Great Wall Museum reopens after renovation

The Great Wall Museum of China at the foot of Beijing’s Badaling section has reopened following a comprehensive renovation and redevelopment. Its expanded facilities and displays explore more than 2,000 years of construction and conservation, as well as the Great Wall’s role in cultural exchange beyond its military function.

Video: With Raw Coconut Imports High, Indonesia Must Promote Downstream Processing

Royal Agro Industri is expanding coconut processing to serve international demand, with products already sold in 35 countries and a target of 50 by 2027. The sector’s growth is constrained by ageing farmers and trees, the export of mostly unprocessed coconuts, and high logistics costs, prompting calls for greater downstream processing.

Looking to Replace Your Air Conditioner or Mattress? Transmart Is Offering Major Discounts

Transmart is discounting selected bedroom products, including an LG inverter air conditioner, an Elite mattress and bedsheets. The offers could help shoppers refresh their bedrooms for less, but stock is limited and prices and availability should be confirmed at stores.

Revitalisation of the National Gallery of Indonesia Begins, with Facilities Set for Upgrades

The National Gallery of Indonesia has begun a revitalisation project covering several buildings, landscaping, public amenities and mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems. The government and contractor Nindya Karya say the works are intended to improve the gallery’s exhibition, collection-management and public functions, while making the site safer and more accessible.

PDI-P Proposes Banning Plantations on Land Affected by Forest and Land Fires, Including Oil Palm

PDI-P secretary-general Hasto Kristiyanto has urged the government to prohibit land affected by forest and land fires from being converted to plantations, including oil palm, and to reforest burned areas. He also called for strict legal action against those responsible and improved fire-prevention planning well before the dry season, amid criticism from neighbouring countries over Indonesian haze.

Xiaomi Confirms Redmi Book 16 2027 Will Include a Numeric Keypad

Xiaomi has confirmed that its 2027 Redmi Book 16 will feature a dedicated numeric keypad, responding to user demand for improved everyday productivity. The refreshed range is also expected to offer removable DDR5 memory and Intel’s upcoming Wildcat Lake processors, with pricing and full specifications due at its China launch.

Indonesia and Russia explore pharmaceutical technology transfers to cut imports

Indonesia and Russia are discussing technology transfers, potential local manufacturing and regulatory cooperation to strengthen Indonesia’s pharmaceutical industry and reduce dependence on imported medicines, particularly insulin and other advanced treatments. The talks also cover a proposed memorandum of understanding, GMP inspection training and a possible mutual recognition framework to ease market access.

Tarutung-Sipirok Route Reopens as Permanent Repairs to Subsided Road Are Rushed

Traffic has resumed on the Tarutung-Sipirok-Padangsidimpuan route in South Tapanuli after emergency work reopened a road section that collapsed following heavy rain. Authorities are urging accelerated permanent repairs, including a retaining wall reinforced with bored piles, and continued monitoring to reduce the risk of further subsidence and protect local connectivity.

Search Continues for Missing 70-Year-Old Woman in Tabanan, with SAR Team Involved

A 70-year-old woman who went missing from her home in Tabanan on Saturday morning has not yet been found. After initial searches by police and residents were unsuccessful, the search is set to resume with the Tabanan Police SAR team and the regional disaster management agency.

Tourism Ministry Promotes Jayawijaya Coffee Plantations as a Tourist Attraction

Indonesia’s Tourism Ministry is encouraging Jayawijaya’s coffee plantations, alongside its natural and cultural assets, to be developed as agrotourism attractions that can boost local incomes. Deputy Tourism Minister Ni Luh Enik Ermawati said coordinated support and events such as the Baliem Valley Cultural Festival could help attract visitors and extend their stays.

3.8 Million Students to Take 2026 Academic Ability Test as MPR Deputy Speaker Calls for Classroom Improvements

Some 3.86 million students have registered for Indonesia’s 2026 Academic Ability Test (TKA), which began on 26 October and is designed to assess secondary-school pupils. MPR Deputy Speaker Lestari Moerdijat says the results must lead to targeted teaching improvements, warning that poor internet access and unequal infrastructure could undermine fairness and that funding must also support remedial programmes and teacher training.

Highlighting Transport and Environmental Problems in West Java, KDM Calls on Indonesian Engineers to Find Solutions Together

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has urged Indonesian engineers to uphold their professional code of ethics and help address everyday problems such as traffic congestion and flooding. He proposed replacing ageing public transport with newer, environmentally friendly vehicles, while the Indonesian Engineers Association said it was ready to work with regional governments on a sustainable model that preserves drivers’ livelihoods.

Volkswagen ID. Unyx 09 Officially Goes on Sale in China

Volkswagen has launched the ID. Unyx 09 electric saloon in China, offering 5C fast charging and a maximum CLTC-rated range of 755 kilometres. Priced from 179,900 to 249,900 yuan, the model combines a CATL-supplied LFP battery with driver-assistance features as Volkswagen competes in China’s crowded electric-vehicle market.

Deputy Minister hopes KUR disbursements in South Kalimantan will reach Rp5 trillion

Deputy Minister for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Helvi Moraza said KUR lending in South Kalimantan had reached Rp3.8 trillion by October 2026, with a target of Rp5 trillion by year-end. The province has 61,251 KUR borrowers, while officials also highlighted growth in its MSME sector and the role of the Kumitra Jamboree in connecting businesses with services, partners and markets.

Warmindo Vandalism Case in Yogyakarta Settled Amicably After Bluetooth Dispute

Two people identified by police in the vandalism and assault at a Warmindo eatery in Yogyakarta have apologised and agreed to compensate the owner for the damage. The dispute began when a group could not connect their phones to the eatery’s password-protected speaker; the assaulted employee sustained bruising, but the victim did not pursue legal action.

Pramono says Jakarta air pollution fell significantly after two days of weather modification

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung said two consecutive days of weather-modification operations helped lower air pollution during the Jakarta Running Festival. He said rain was directed towards selected areas while the Gelora Bung Karno venue was kept dry for a concert, and pledged to continue the operations when cloud conditions and funding allow.

Saudi Arabia Reopens Airport Despite Houthi Drone and Missile Attacks

Saudi Arabia has reopened two terminals at King Khalid International Airport for domestic and international flights, even as Houthi forces continue launching drones and missiles towards Riyadh and southern areas. The reopening follows a deadly attack earlier this month and comes amid renewed fighting in Yemen that has disrupted a UN-mediated truce and raised concerns over strategic Red Sea shipping routes.

BPK Member Fathan Subchi Dies in Russia, to Be Buried in Demak

Fathan Subchi, a member of Indonesia’s Audit Board (BPK), has died aged 56 while on an audit assignment in Moscow. He had served on the board since October 2024, and is expected to be buried in Demak after his body is taken to Jakarta for prayers.

Banten Governor Andra Soni Reaffirms Commitment to Preserving the Baduy Environment

Banten Governor Andra Soni says the provincial government will continue supporting environmental conservation and protecting the customary rights of the Baduy people. A tree-planting campaign has distributed 70,000 seedlings across 68 villages, combining forest rehabilitation with potential economic benefits for local communities.

Chinese National Who Ran Amok in Tabanan Residential Area Transferred to Immigration Detention Centre

A 34-year-old Chinese national was detained after causing a disturbance in a residential area in Pandak Bandung village, Tabanan, and has been transferred to the Denpasar Immigration Detention Centre. Immigration officials say he underwent immigration and health checks, including a mental health examination that found no indication of a disorder, while authorities continue investigating the incident and his account.

NATO Praises Turkey’s Defence Industry Revolution as Military Exports Top Rp180 Trillion

NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte has praised Turkey’s rapid expansion of its defence industry, describing it as a revolution and a model for alliance members seeking to increase weapons production. The article also highlights growing cooperation with Canada and Turkey’s shift from relying on foreign arms imports to becoming a producer and exporter, while noting that some advanced technologies remain dependent on international partnerships.

PDI-P Marks Lead-up to 100th Anniversary of Youth Pledge, Urges Young People to Master Technology

PDI-P has begun a series of events ahead of the 100th anniversary of Indonesia’s Youth Pledge, encouraging young people to master science and technology and apply their knowledge for the country’s progress. Secretary-General Hasto Kristiyanto said the party’s message also stresses leadership, character and standing with people facing oppression and injustice.

Gerindra Scrutinises Claims Dino Patti Djalal Met Singapore’s Ambassador

Gerindra says it is investigating social media claims that opposition figures, including former deputy foreign minister Dino Patti Djalal and Saiful Mujani, met Singapore’s ambassador in Jakarta. The party says criticism of the government is legitimate in a democracy, but should be constructive and free of foreign interests.

Sherly Tjoanda Laos: From the Business World to the Governor’s Office, with Nearly Rp1 Trillion in Wealth

Sherly Tjoanda Laos’s business background may inform her understanding of enterprise and investment, but her leadership as North Maluku’s governor will ultimately be judged by policy outcomes. Key tests include equitable development, quality public services, job creation and whether investment benefits communities while protecting the environment.

Sleman develops healthy rice farming using environmentally friendly irrigation

The Ngudi Mulyo Farmers’ Group in Sleman is using an environmentally friendly irrigation system to grow healthy rice, achieving yields above the usual average. Officials said the 12.5-hectare area produced 9.76 tonnes of harvested dry paddy per hectare and 7.84 tonnes of milled dry paddy, and hope other farmers will adopt the approach.

Transmart Full Day Sale Today: 50% Discounts Plus an Extra 20% Ahead of Payday

Transmart is holding a one-day sale across its Indonesian stores, offering discounts of up to 50% plus an additional 20% on selected household and other goods. The extra reduction requires a minimum spend of Rp300,000 and payment through specified Allo or Bank Mega services.

Wave of Protests Rocks Europe as Italy Sees Unrest and Portugal Erupts

Demonstrations over living costs, housing and social demands spread across Europe, with clashes reported in several Italian cities and police clearing a housing protest camp in Lisbon. Portugal’s housing affordability crisis is particularly acute: property prices have more than doubled since 2017, while rents for new contracts have almost doubled, with young people among the hardest hit.

BKPM Revokes Papua Gold Mining Permit, Returning 3,500 Hectares of Concession to the State

Indonesia’s Investment and Downstreaming Ministry/BKPM has revoked PT Kristalin Ekalestari’s gold-mining production-operation permit in Nabire, Central Papua, after finding the company had opened mining areas in forest land without the required approval and had operated beyond its licensed area. The decision cancels the company’s permit and returns the 3,500-hectare concession to the state; the report’s text ends just as it introduces two follow-up oversight measures.

NEXT: DSI’s success should be measured by transaction oversight and transparency

NEXT Indonesia Center director Herry Gunawan says Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia (DSI) should be judged on whether it strengthens export oversight, improves transaction transparency and accurately records export values. He warns that DSI must prioritise preventing export leakage and monitoring commodities, rather than becoming primarily a new exporter, and calls for integrated data systems to detect pricing and volume anomalies that could reduce state revenue.

Bima Arya Urges Bundo Kanduang to Preserve Minangkabau Customs and Take Them Global

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya Sugiarto has called on the Bundo Kanduang association to safeguard Minangkabau customs and religious values, and pass them on to younger generations. He said the community’s resilience and contributions to Indonesia should be matched by wider recognition of its ideas and economic achievements, while urging the association to guide Generation Z.

Driver of Electric Car That Ran Over Ride-Hailing Motorcyclist in South Jakarta Named as Suspect

Police have named the 46-year-old driver of a BYD electric car as a suspect after a collision involving five vehicles in South Jakarta. The injured ride-hailing motorcyclist suffered a broken left leg and is undergoing treatment; the driver tested negative for drugs and alcohol.

“Guardian. For Family”: TIGGO7 Crash Test Demonstrates CHERY’s Commitment to Family Safety

CHERY says its TIGGO7 passed a 50 km/h truck crash test at its Longshan Crash Laboratory in Wuhu, with the test demonstrating the vehicle’s occupant-protection systems. The event formed part of the company’s efforts to highlight safety as a core development principle and its commitment to families worldwide.

Ekraf Partners with Tencent to Develop IP and Creative Talent, Aiming to Take Indonesian Works Global

Indonesia’s Ministry of Creative Economy has signed a three-year memorandum of understanding with Tencent to develop intellectual property, strengthen creative talent and explore international content distribution. The collaboration includes training in areas such as game design, monetisation, AI and cloud computing, as well as opportunities to support local game studios and esports talent.

Survey: PAN’s Electability Rises to 5.8% as Zulhas Ranks Among Top Three Ministers for Performance

An Indonesia Political Opinion survey found that Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman received the highest performance rating, while Zulkifli Hasan placed third with 24.5%. The poll also put PAN’s electability at 5.8%, up 0.7 percentage points from its previous survey, ranking the party sixth.

Aceh police detain suspect in illegal gold mining case

Police in Nagan Raya, Aceh, have detained a suspect accused of owning an excavator and financing an unlicensed gold-mining operation in Tuwi Meulesong. Investigators seized mining equipment and are continuing to gather evidence under Indonesia’s mineral and coal mining law.

Tri Tito Karnavian Calls for Budget Efficiencies by Integrating Work Meetings of Dekranas, TP PKK and TP Posyandu

Tri Tito Karnavian has proposed holding joint work meetings for three community empowerment organisations to improve budget efficiency and coordination without diminishing their respective roles. The forum is also intended to strengthen regulatory and regional budget support, and develop programmes that deliver tangible benefits to artisans, families and communities.

SBY Remembers Former TNI Commander Widodo AS as a Statesmanlike Soldier

Former president Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono paid tribute to former TNI commander Widodo AS at his state military funeral, recalling his service during the 1998 crisis and his efforts to preserve national unity. TNI Commander General Agus Subiyanto also praised Widodo as a professional leader and role model for younger officers.

Qatar’s Years of Culture Initiative Announces Partner Countries Through 2030

Qatar’s Years of Culture initiative has named Italy, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Portugal and Spain as partners for 2028–2030, following previously announced partnerships with Egypt and Greece in 2027. The programme uses cultural exchange to strengthen international ties while supporting Qatar’s creative industries and social and economic development.

Tri Tito Karnavian Promotes Budget Savings Through Joint Meetings of Three Organisations

Tri Tito Karnavian has brought the work meetings of Dekranas, TP PKK and TP Posyandu together in a single forum to reduce operating costs while maintaining strategic discussions and improving coordination. The initiative is intended to support the organisations’ community empowerment programmes, with central government agencies also outlining regulatory and local budget support.

Vino G. Bastian and Pevita Pearce to Star in ‘Gasigogi’

Indonesian actors Vino G. Bastian and Pevita Pearce will lead ‘Gasigogi’, a Falcon Pictures production directed by South Korean filmmaker Lee Hwan-kyung. Set in Indonesia, the film tells the story of a father who will do anything to save his son, and is currently in production.

Iran Shoots Down US Drone as Trump Leaves Open the Option of Strikes

Iran says its military shot down a US-made LUCAS drone over the southern port city of Bandar Abbas, as President Donald Trump said the United States could attack Iran as soon as the following day. Trump also said Tehran could avert further military action by reaching an agreement with Washington, while reports said aircraft aboard the USS George Washington carrier strike group had been placed on alert.

Why Was This Toxic US Rocket Eventually Destroyed?

The United States destroyed its stockpile of M55 chemical rockets, which carried nerve agents including GB (sarin) and VX, as well as other chemical munitions. Their ageing propellant could lose stabiliser and potentially ignite spontaneously, posing a danger even while the rockets remained in storage.

Saudi-led Coalition Intercepts Houthi Cruise Missile over Khamis Mushait

The Saudi-led coalition in Yemen says it intercepted and destroyed a Houthi cruise missile aimed at Khamis Mushait, following the interception of a ballistic missile and two drones headed for Riyadh earlier on Sunday. The incidents come amid escalating hostilities involving attacks on Saudi energy and aviation infrastructure and coalition strikes on Houthi positions in Yemen.

Online Motorcycle Taxi Driver Shot by Unknown Assailants in Sukabumi; Police Hunt Suspects

An online motorcycle taxi driver was found wounded by a suspected gunshot near Sukabumi Station shortly after midnight on 25 October 2026 and underwent surgery. Police are investigating the incident, which they say may have been planned, and are seeking two suspected assailants.

High-school students take on diplomat roles and debate global crises at HSMUN 2026

High-school students represented countries and organisations at the 18th HighScope Model United Nations in Jakarta, negotiating resolutions on issues ranging from conflict and refugee movements to public health and media literacy. The conference also included a simulation of Indonesia’s national parliament, where participants examined education policy in light of the Indonesia Emas 2045 vision.

One Year On, Social Affairs Ministry Strengthens Safe Spaces for Students at Sekolah Rakyat

As the Social Affairs Ministry’s Sekolah Rakyat programme marks its first year, the ministry says it is reviewing safeguarding and support arrangements at its residential schools following reports of social-adjustment incidents. It plans to strengthen supervision, psychosocial support and child-protection measures ahead of the inauguration of 100 school buildings in Makassar on 28 October 2026.

Video: KAI Logistics’ Strategy for Meeting Demand for Halal Freight Services

KAI Logistik is pursuing four strategies to strengthen its rail freight business, including diversifying its markets, improving service reliability, using its rolling stock more efficiently and expanding digital services. The company is also preparing a halal logistics supply chain and aims to shift goods carried by overweight and oversized trucks to rail, while developing more sustainable services in agriculture.

Energy and Mineral Sector Non-Tax Revenue Target Raised to Rp165 Trillion for 2026

The government has raised its 2026 non-tax state revenue (PNBP) target for the energy and mineral resources sector from Rp137 trillion to Rp165 trillion, after receipts reached Rp127.71 trillion by September. Officials expect contributions from coal, upstream oil and gas, and downstream processing, while stressing that greater domestic value-added and responsible mining matter more than simply increasing production volumes.

Waqf Forests Can Prevent Wildfires and Provide Income for Local Residents

Local involvement in managing waqf forests could help prevent forest and land fires while giving nearby residents a direct economic stake in protecting the land. Experts also highlighted productive waqf as a source of resources for firefighting and drought relief, while calling for further academic research into the role of Islamic social finance in environmental resilience.

BPK Member Fathan Subchi Dies

Fathan Subchi, a member of Indonesia’s Supreme Audit Board (BPK) for the 2024–2029 term, has died aged 56 while carrying out audit duties in Moscow. BPK paid tribute to his service and expressed condolences to his family.

60-Year-Old Foreign Woman Found Dead in North Kuta Villa After Losing Contact

A foreign woman believed to be around 60 was found dead in a villa in North Kuta, Bali, after a relative reported being unable to contact her for several days. Medical staff said she had been dead for more than five days; police are investigating the cause of death and reported finding no other evidence pointing to its circumstances.

LPEM UI Survey: 52% of Experts Say Indonesia’s Economy Has Deteriorated

A survey of 63 economists by LPEM FEB UI found that 52% believe Indonesia’s economic conditions have worsened over the past three months, while 78% consider inflationary pressures high. The survey also found that 73% believe job creation has weakened over the past six months and 56% say the business environment has deteriorated.

IPW Backs Police Chief’s Proposal for a Total Vape Ban to Prevent Liquid Narcotics

Indonesia Police Watch (IPW) has urged President Prabowo Subianto to issue a presidential instruction banning vape use in government institutions, supporting National Police Chief Suyudi Ario Seto’s campaign against narcotics. IPW says vapes could facilitate the circulation of liquid narcotics, citing existing restrictions and a religious ruling against vape misuse as precedents.

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya Urges Bundo Kanduang to Preserve Minangkabau Customs

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya Sugiarto called on the Bundo Kanduang association to safeguard Minangkabau customs and religious values, and to pass them on to younger generations. He said the community’s resilience and contributions to Indonesia are rooted in solidarity and cultural values, and urged the association to foster young people’s character while promoting Minangkabau intellectual and economic achievements.

Tourist Minibus Crashes in Demak, Killing One Person

An Isuzu Elf carrying tourists from Jepara crashed on the Pantura route in Demak, killing one passenger and injuring eight others. Two of the injured passengers were taken to hospital, while the remaining six received outpatient treatment; the group had been travelling to Yogyakarta for an organisational handover event.

Aramco Headquarters in Saudi Arabia Attacked: Could Indonesia Feel the Fallout?

Saudi Aramco reportedly ordered staff to leave its Dhahran headquarters and work remotely after the site was attacked, amid escalating tensions involving Saudi Arabia and Yemen’s Houthi group. The article examines the scale of Aramco’s global operations, refining and production capacity, and declining 2025 revenue, highlighting the potential risks to energy infrastructure and supply if the conflict spreads.

Tri Tito Pushes for Budget Efficiency Through Joint Dekranas, TP PKK and Posyandu Working Meetings

Tri Tito Karnavian has called for Dekranas, TP PKK and TP Posyandu to combine their working meetings in a single forum to improve budget efficiency and coordination. The integrated meeting is intended to support sustainable community programmes and deliver practical benefits, including stronger livelihoods for artisans and improved family welfare.

SBY: Admiral (Ret.) Widodo AS Was a Soldier and Statesman

Former president Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono paid tribute to former Indonesian military commander Widodo AS, describing him as a patriotic soldier and statesman who served the country through periods of political upheaval. Widodo, who also served as Navy chief of staff and coordinating minister for political, legal and security affairs, was buried with a state military ceremony in Jakarta.

Protests Spread Beyond France, Returning to Portugal and Italy

Protests over the cost of living and other social concerns have continued in Italy and Portugal, following demonstrations in France. Italian cities saw clashes and heavy police deployments, while police in Lisbon dismantled a housing protest camp and made several arrests amid a severe affordability crisis.

World Mosque Youth Develops Poverty Alleviation Programme

World Mosque Youth has proposed working with Indonesia’s National Amil Zakat Agency (BAZNAS) on mosque-centred social assistance and economic empowerment. Its proposed Mosque Cares for Poverty programme includes a food bank and needs-based distribution of essentials, alongside scholarships and training for mosque imams.

Indonesian Navy Holds Tactical Exercises in the Java Sea and Makassar Strait

The Indonesian Navy conducted L-3 tactical drills involving two vessels under Fleet Command III’s operational control, practising replenishment at sea, signal communications and coordinated manoeuvres. The exercises are intended to improve crews’ skills, communications and interoperability in support of maritime security and national interests.

BSI Promotes Investment in Human Capital Through Scholarships

Bank Syariah Indonesia says its scholarship programme has supported 21,153 students in partnership with 190 universities nationwide. The programme has produced 1,182 graduates, with reported social impacts including 548 alumni families moving out of poverty and 70 alumni becoming zakat payers.

Fugitive from South Sulawesi Police Arrested in Labuan Bajo After Moving Between Regions

A man wanted by South Sulawesi Police was arrested in Labuan Bajo after allegedly stealing an iPhone 17 Pro Max during a cash-on-delivery sale. Police say he is also a suspect in several other cases, including an alleged Rp 1.2 billion investment and trading fraud in Makassar, and have charged him with fraud.

Indonesian and Malaysian Artists Strengthen Ties at SNF 2026

Artists from Indonesia and Malaysia joined forces at the inaugural Saga Nusantara Festival in Mukah, Sarawak, to celebrate Melanau and Javanese heritage through music, dance and other cultural traditions. Organisers and officials said the exchange would deepen community ties and also create opportunities to promote local products and support the local economy.

To Compete with China, Japanese Carmakers Cut Development Times

Japanese carmakers are accelerating vehicle development to catch up with Chinese rivals, which can bring new models to market in under two years. Nissan, Honda, Toyota, Suzuki and Mitsubishi are pursuing platform sharing, AI and digital tools, and parts standardisation to shorten development cycles and improve efficiency.

Single-price fuel supports the economy of residents in Mahakam Ulu’s remote 3T region

Indonesia’s single-price fuel policy is helping sustain economic activity in Mahakam Ulu, East Kalimantan, despite dry-season disruption to river transport. Road deliveries keep supplies flowing, while equal prices and allocation recommendations based on distance help reduce costs for residents in remote areas.

Government distributes rice aid to 33.2 million recipients

The government will provide 33.2 million low-income recipients with 30 kilograms of free rice each for October to December 2026, with a total allocation of one million tonnes. The programme, approved by the President and delivered with Bulog’s support, is intended to protect food access and ease household expenses amid high rice prices.

PDI-P Legislator Praises Riau Police for Exposing Subsidised Fuel Diversion, Urges Probe into Mafia Network

Dewi Juliani, a PDI-P legislator representing Riau I, praised Riau Police for arresting dozens of people over alleged subsidised fuel diversion, but called for investigators to trace the entire supply chain. She said persistent shortages and queues for diesel despite Pertamina’s quota deliveries warrant scrutiny, and urged tighter oversight and enforcement to ensure subsidised fuel reaches intended recipients.

Seruni and Dekranas Support the Preservation of Gringsing Weaving in Tenganan Pegringsingan Traditional Village

Seruni and the National Crafts Council (Dekranas) have supported the preservation of Bali’s traditional Gringsing weaving during a visit to Tenganan Pegringsingan, Karangasem. The delegation provided 500 pairs of glasses to older residents, including weavers, and highlighted the need to pass the craft on to younger generations.

People’s Schools Expand Access to Education as Students Rack Up Thousands of Achievements

Indonesia’s People’s Schools programme has provided free education to more than 44,000 children from low-income families and now operates at 182 sites. Students recorded thousands of achievements in 2025, while the government plans to expand capacity and build permanent schools across the country.

Riots at Demonstration in Spain: 100 Arrested and Shops Looted

Violence erupted during a demonstration in Barcelona, leaving more than 30 fires and 14 shops damaged or looted; police arrested 100 people, around a quarter of them minors. The unrest followed calls for an anti-system protest circulated on social media, while local authorities said it was separate from a peaceful housing-rights demonstration.

Orthopaedic Charity Event on Santri Day Highlights Importance of Joint Health for Worship

An orthopaedic professor used a charity event held for National Santri Day to emphasise that maintaining knee health can support an active life and make Islamic prayer more comfortable into old age. Medical screenings at the event found knee pain among all four attendees, with some reporting difficulty performing prayer movements.

BRILink Agent Fillio Reaches Dumai’s Outskirts, Bringing Inclusive Financial Services Closer to Communities

Rahmi’s BRILink Agent Fillio in Dumai has grown from a mobile-phone credit kiosk into a four-outlet network offering transfers, bill payments and support for local traders. BRI says its agent network, which exceeded one million outlets by the end of September 2026, is expanding access to banking and supporting economic activity across Indonesia.

PLN Merges Two Subsidiaries to Establish PLN Services Subholding

PLN has merged PLN Electricity Services and PLN Nusa Daya into a new subholding, PLN Services, as part of a government-backed effort to streamline state-owned enterprises. The integration is intended to reduce duplication, improve operational efficiency and service reliability, and sharpen capital allocation across the group.

Susi Air to Resume Nagan Raya Flights to Medan and Banda Aceh on 2 November

Susi Air is set to restart services from Cut Nyak Dhien Airport in Nagan Raya to Medan and Banda Aceh on 2 November, with four weekly flights to Medan and two to Banda Aceh. The local administration says the resumption will restore airport activity and improve transport links supporting residents, businesses and regional development after services were disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Attended by 6,000 Runners, Laswi Heritage Run 2026 Showcases Bandung’s Sport Tourism Potential

Some 6,000 participants took part in a 5K run through Bandung’s historic heritage district, an event organised at Tamansari Laswi City by WIKA Realty and partners. The organisers said the adaptive-reuse site can host community and sporting events, supporting local food businesses and Bandung’s sport tourism ambitions.

Intoxicated Woman Found Lying Outside Bogor Mosque, Allegedly Abandoned by Male Motorcyclist

An unidentified woman was found lying outside a mosque in Tanah Sareal, Bogor, at about 2.20am, apparently heavily intoxicated and without identification. Police said witnesses saw her being dropped off by a motorcyclist, who then fled; she was taken into the care of the Social Affairs Office.

Indonesia launches locally led oversight programme for subsidised fuel

Indonesia has launched a programme to train young graduates as field officers monitoring energy distribution, with a focus on preventing leakage and misuse of subsidised and assigned fuels. Officers will mainly work in their home provinces or nearby areas, using local knowledge to improve oversight and help ensure subsidies reach the public fairly and effectively.

Sarana Menara (TOWR) to Receive Rp176 Billion Interim Dividend from Protelindo

Protelindo will distribute an interim dividend of Rp176 billion for the 2026 financial year, with Sarana Menara Nusantara, which owns 99.99% of the company, set to receive almost all of it. The payout amounts to around Rp3.02 per share and, according to Protelindo, will not materially affect its operations or financial position.

East Kalimantan Provincial Government Pushes to Improve Financial Literacy and Inclusion

East Kalimantan’s provincial government and the Financial Services Authority (OJK) are seeking to widen access to safe, affordable financial services while strengthening public understanding of financial products and risks. The campaign comes amid thousands of complaints to the regional OJK, including reports of illegal lending, fraudulent investments and romance scams; the authority urges consumers to verify providers and report cybercrime promptly.

France Riots: Police Arrest 1,000 People

Violence and looting during mass demonstrations across France led to nearly 1,000 arrests, as protesters rallied over the rising cost of living and education. Authorities and unions offered sharply differing estimates of turnout, while a major security deployment sought to prevent a repeat of widespread damage the previous weekend.

MP: Oversight of Gas Supplies Must Deliver Tangible Benefits for Businesses

A House of Representatives member has praised the Industry Minister’s commitment to securing gas supplies for domestic industry, but says the effort must translate into reliable availability and competitive prices. He called for consistent implementation of priority gas allocation and closer coordination across government and energy-sector stakeholders, particularly to support gas-dependent industries.

Jakarta Governor cites major events as evidence of economic resilience

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung says major concerts and sporting events demonstrate the capital’s economic vitality, citing high attendance and more than Rp250 billion in turnover from the Pestapora festival. He also points to Jakarta’s 5.52 per cent economic growth, above the national rate of 5.29 per cent, as evidence of resilience amid global uncertainty.

Two suspected armed-group members killed in Papua clash, says TNI

TNI says two suspected members of the Ndugama-Nderakma group were killed in a clash with troops in Papua on 23 October, after the group allegedly opened fire near a residential area. Authorities are identifying the dead, while the military says it seized weapons, communications equipment, documents and Rp88 million, and has urged armed group members to end the violence.

For the Sake of the ‘Business Climate’, Luhut Proposes Narrowing the Definition of Corruption to Bribery

National Economic Council chief Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan’s remarks suggesting corruption should focus on bribery rather than state losses triggered controversy, with the KPK and Indonesia Corruption Watch opposing the idea. Luhut later clarified that state-loss offences would remain in the law, while proposing clearer evidentiary standards and additional offences under the UN anti-corruption convention. The debate centres on aligning Indonesian law with UNCAC while ensuring that legal certainty does not weaken efforts to combat corruption.

Ipda Purnomo Receives 2026 Inspirational Bhayangkara Santri Award

Lamongan police officer Ipda Purnomo has received the 2026 Inspirational Bhayangkara Santri Award for his humanitarian work caring for people with mental health conditions through a foundation he established. The award recognises the contribution of santri and Islamic boarding schools to Indonesian society, while highlighting cooperation between the police and local communities.

Pramono Vows to Make West Jakarta’s Kota Bambu Pedestrian Bridge Disability-Friendly

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung says the Kota Bambu pedestrian bridge will be repaired after complaints that it is inaccessible to people with disabilities, particularly as it serves people travelling to nearby hospitals. The repair is part of a wider city programme to upgrade pedestrian bridges and dismantle those no longer functioning properly, with some work scheduled to begin in early 2027.

Energy Ministry Launches Energy Guardians to Monitor Subsidised Fuel Distribution at 3,679 Petrol Stations

The Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry has launched the 2026 Energy Guardians programme to oversee subsidised and assignment fuel distribution at 3,679 petrol stations nationwide. The initiative will recruit local university graduates to strengthen monitoring, prevent misuse and improve the accuracy of subsidy oversight, with applications open from 23 October to 1 November 2026.

Indonesia steps up forest-fire response at Way Kambas National Park

Indonesia’s disaster agency has stepped up coordinated firefighting at Way Kambas National Park, bringing together national and regional agencies, security forces and park authorities. The response also includes weather-modification flights dispersing sodium chloride, with officials stressing integrated data and prevention measures to protect the conservation area.

Ukrainian Drones Suddenly Go Blind as Elon Musk Admits Starlink Restrictions

Elon Musk said SpaceX restricted Ukraine’s use of Starlink after it was allegedly used for offensive drone operations, disrupting communications for Ukrainian military units. The outage affected drone missions, battlefield communications and logistics, highlighting Kyiv’s reliance on SpaceX’s satellite network; President Volodymyr Zelenskyy later said connection speeds had been restored.

243 Individuals and 14 Corporations Named as Suspects in Forest and Land Fires

Police have named 243 individuals and 14 corporations as suspects in forest and land fires across Indonesia, with corporate cases accounting for a far larger area of burned land. President Prabowo Subianto has made tackling the fires a priority, describing deliberate burning as environmental terrorism and ordering authorities to investigate those responsible and revoke permits where violations are proven.

Seruni and Dekranas Support the Preservation of Gringsing Weaving

Seruni and the National Crafts Council (Dekranas) have pledged support for preserving Gringsing weaving, a cultural tradition of Tenganan Pegringsingan village in Bali. During a visit, they donated 500 pairs of glasses to older residents, particularly weavers, and highlighted the need to pass the craft on to younger generations.

Tri Adhianto Opens UP Padel and Malaka Toast, Invites Investors to Develop Businesses in Bekasi

Bekasi Mayor Tri Adhianto has called on investors to expand their businesses in the city, citing the need for clear legal protections and efficient public services. The opening of a venue combining padel facilities and food outlet Malaka Toast comes as Bekasi promotes investment and prepares to host West Java’s 15th Provincial Sports Week in November 2026.

BPK Member Fathan Subchi Dies

Fathan Subchi, a member of Indonesia’s Audit Board (BPK) for the 2024–2029 term and a former two-term legislator, has died. Tributes were issued by the National Awakening Party (PKB) and House Commission XI chairman Mukhamad Misbakhun, who had served alongside him in the commission.

Police Chief Calls for Total Vape Ban to Prevent Liquid Narcotics

National Police Chief Suyudi Ario Seto has called for a complete ban on e-cigarettes, arguing that vape cartridges could conceal liquid narcotics that are difficult to identify by sight. He praised North Sumatra’s ban on vaping among civil servants and said the proposal aligns with a recommendation he made to the House of Representatives while leading the National Narcotics Agency.

House Commission XI Urges Caution in Interpreting Prabowo’s Remarks on MSCI

Commission XI chairman Misbakhun said President Prabowo’s defiant remarks to global index provider MSCI should not be read as a direct confrontation, but as an effort to reassure Indonesians and signal the country’s commitment to international market-governance standards. The comments come as MSCI considers downgrading Indonesia from emerging-market to standalone-market status, citing concerns over share-ownership transparency and coordinated trading practices.

Video: Food Loss Risks and El Niño Threaten Food Self-Sufficiency — What Is the Solution?

The government cites surplus production in several staple commodities as evidence of progress towards food self-sufficiency, a priority of President Prabowo Subianto’s administration. Analysts caution that El Niño, distribution bottlenecks and food loss could undermine the gains, with implications for imports, inflation and household purchasing power.

One Year On, How Has the Sekolah Rakyat Programme Progressed?

The government says its Sekolah Rakyat programme has expanded access to education for children from low-income and vulnerable families, with more than 45,000 pupils enrolled or being reached across two academic years. It is also building permanent school facilities, with a target of 500 buildings within three to four years, while citing student achievements as evidence of the programme’s wider impact.

Health Minister Uses Oxygen Amid Haze from Forest and Land Fires; Health Ministry Responds

The Health Ministry says a widely circulated photograph of Budi Gunadi Sadikin using an oxygen facility during a visit to Palangka Raya was intended to demonstrate services available to haze-affected residents. It denied social media claims that the minister was suffering breathing difficulties and urged the public to verify information before sharing it.

Police Arrest Suspected Fuel Hoarder in East Lombok and Seize 1,734 Litres of Pertalite

Police in East Lombok have arrested a man suspected of hoarding subsidised Pertalite and seized 1,734 litres stored in 51 jerrycans, along with the car used to transport it. Investigators are probing the fuel’s source, its intended destination and whether others were involved.

Brimob Joins Church Service with Pasar Minggu Community to Strengthen Ties

Fourteen Brimob personnel attended a service at HKBP Pasar Minggu Church in South Jakarta as part of their spiritual development and an effort to build stronger relations with the public. The Metro Jaya Mobile Brigade chief said spiritual guidance supports officers’ moral conduct, integrity and respectful engagement across religious and social differences.

Petrol Station Attendant Exposed in Scheme to Hoard 795 Litres of Pertalite

Denpasar police have uncovered a scheme involving a petrol station operator who allegedly used customers’ fuel-subsidy barcodes to buy Pertalite for resale, seizing 795 litres and detaining four people. The group reportedly earned up to Rp75 million a month; the suspects face up to six years in prison and a fine of Rp60 billion.

JK Calls for Humanitarian Values to Guide Responses to Global Crises

Former Indonesian vice-president Jusuf Kalla has called for humanitarian values to underpin responses to global crises, including armed conflicts and natural disasters. Speaking at Yale University, he said military strength alone cannot resolve security challenges and stressed the importance of understanding root causes, dialogue and a humanitarian approach to achieving peace.

At Kanye West Concert, Sahroni Says Indonesia Is Highly Suitable for International Events

Ahmad Sahroni, a deputy chair of the House of Representatives’ Commission III, said the orderly staging of Ye (Kanye West)’s concert at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium demonstrated Indonesia’s ability to host major international events. He also noted that overseas visitors attending the concert boosted local hospitality and economic activity, and called for more events of comparable quality.

Residents Startled as Plengkung Gading Siren Suddenly Sounds by Itself

A siren at Plengkung Gading in Yogyakarta sounded unexpectedly for about five minutes on Saturday night, alarming nearby residents. Police said the likely cause was an electrical short circuit, and the siren was switched off after residents and local officials confirmed there was no emergency.

Combined Hyundai and Kia Sales in China Fall Below 10,000 Units

Combined retail sales by Hyundai Motor and Kia in China fell 39 per cent year on year to about 9,000 vehicles in September, dropping below 10,000 for the first time this year as demand weakened. Their market share fell to 0.6 per cent, and sales of Hyundai’s China-specific electric models have so far failed to reverse the decline.

SBY and Sjafrie Attend Funeral of Former TNI Commander Widodo AS

Former Indonesian Military (TNI) commander Widodo Adi Sutjipto has died, with former president Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono and senior government and military officials attending his funeral in Jakarta. Widodo led the TNI from 1999 to 2002 and later served as coordinating minister for political, legal and security affairs from 2004 to 2009.

As AI Music Grows, PAPPRI Jakarta Urges Musicians to Keep Creating

PAPPRI Jakarta chair Ussy Pieters has warned that AI-generated music could undermine human creativity, urging musicians to keep developing their skills and producing original work. The association’s 2026 Jabodetabek Band Parade brought together 24 groups across genres, prioritising community, performance and musical exchange rather than competition.

Revealed: Kim Jong Un’s Aim After Surprise Crossing into China

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un made a brief visit to China’s border city of Dandong, where he toured a Korean War memorial and crossed a newly opened bridge linking the two countries. The visit, framed by both sides’ shared wartime history, comes as Beijing and Pyongyang seek to expand trade and strengthen economic ties ahead of US President Donald Trump’s visit to the region.

Government Races to Develop 45,993 Hectares of Rice Fields in South Papua, with Merauke Set to Become a National Food Hub

The government is accelerating its People’s Rice Field Development programme in Merauke, South Papua, where 45,993 hectares are being developed across 2025 and 2026. Deputy Agriculture Minister Muhammad Saleh Mustafa said the effort must be matched by irrigation, farm roads, machinery, fertiliser, seeds and farmer support so the newly opened land becomes productive and strengthens national food self-sufficiency.

Singapore Says Electricity Prices Are Safe as Indonesia Cuts Gas Exports

Singapore expects Indonesia’s temporary reduction in natural gas exports to have no significant short-term effect on electricity prices, as the cut represents less than 2 per cent of its daily gas needs. The government says supplies remain adequate and points to measures including diversified imports, LNG reserves and backup diesel stocks, while Indonesia redirects gas to meet rising domestic electricity demand.

Thousands of Albanians Protest High Cost of Living and Demand Prime Minister’s Resignation

Thousands of people demonstrated in Tirana over the rising cost of living and alleged corruption, with clashes leaving more than 300 protesters and police officers injured. Protesters called for Prime Minister Edi Rama to resign, as the government blamed foreign actors and anti-EU groups for fuelling unrest.

Government Prepares Christmas and New Year Transport Discounts for 16.6 Million Passengers

The government plans to allocate Rp 883.4 billion for transport discounts during the 2026–27 Christmas and New Year holiday period, with benefits expected to reach around 16.6 million passengers. Discounts will cover air, rail, sea and ferry travel, through a mix of tax relief, fare reductions and waived port charges.

Mesuji Police Uncover Drug Network and Seize Hundreds of Ecstasy Pills

Police in Mesuji, Lampung, have arrested three suspects in a series of raids and seized 230 ecstasy pills, methamphetamine and a homemade firearm with ammunition. Investigators are pursuing the alleged main supplier and investigating the weapon’s ownership; the suspects face a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison.

Trump Hints at Attack as Iran Shoots Down US Drone over Bandar Abbas

Iran says it shot down a US-made LUCAS drone over the southern port city of Bandar Abbas, amid fears of a wider Middle East conflict. Donald Trump said the United States could attack Iran as soon as the following day, while also suggesting Tehran could avert further military action by reaching an agreement with Washington.

Crews cool three blocks after Ciremai wildfire contained

Fire crews are cooling three areas in Mount Ciremai National Park after the wildfire was brought under control, with drone and field checks finding no active hotspots by Saturday night. Teams will continue monitoring and mop-up work, supported by planned weather modification and Indonesian Air Force water-bombing, despite difficult terrain and a shortage of transport vehicles.

Pramono Welcomes Ye Concert Drawing 30,000 Foreign Tourists: ‘That Never Happened Before’

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung said recent international concerts and sporting events have attracted tens of thousands of visitors, including an estimated 30,000 foreign attendees at Kanye West’s Ye concert. He credited the city’s more open and transparent approach, and pointed to upcoming BTS and Westlife concerts as evidence of Jakarta’s growing appeal as a global events destination.

Ice Seller in Java Built a Fortune Worth Nearly Rp10 Trillion

Tasripin, a Semarang entrepreneur who made his fortune producing and selling ice in the colonial era, reportedly left an estate of 45 million guilders in 1919. Adjusted by the historical and current price of rice, that wealth is estimated at about Rp9.7 trillion today; his story highlights how the once-scarce commodity created major business opportunities.

Mother orangutan and her infant rescued in Central Kalimantan

Authorities and the Orangutan Foundation International rescued an orangutan mother and her 10-month-old infant in Kandan Village, Central Kalimantan, after residents reported their presence. The mother had cords—suspected to be snares—wrapped around both wrists and sustained serious wounds; a veterinarian treated her following the rescue.

Police Break Up Illegal Street Race in Makasar, East Jakarta; Six Young Men and Motorcycles Seized

A joint Brimob and East Jakarta police patrol broke up an illegal street race on Jalan Taman Mini, detaining six young men and impounding six motorcycles. Officers said the patrols are intended to prevent street racing, brawls and other public-order disturbances, and urged parents to monitor their children and residents to call the police emergency number 110 if needed.

Police Rescue Injured Mother Orangutan and Baby at Central Kalimantan Fire Site

Indonesian police rescued a severely injured mother orangutan and her approximately nine-month-old baby from a forest and land fire zone in Sampit, Kotawaringin Timur. The operation, conducted with conservation agencies, also highlighted the wider effects of the fires on wildlife and habitat in and around Tanjung Puting National Park.

Indonesia Cuts Gas Exports as Singapore Calls for Contractual Commitments to Be Honoured

Indonesia began reducing gas supplies to Singapore by 31 million standard cubic feet per day, a measure affecting about 17 BBTUD for 18 days and less than 2% of Singapore’s daily gas needs. Prime Minister Lawrence Wong urged parties to honour commercial contracts, while the disruption has renewed attention to Singapore’s supply resilience and its assessment of nuclear power as a future energy source.

Online Taxi Driver Robbed and Murdered; Body Dumped in Palm Oil Plantation

Police in North Sumatra have arrested two suspects over the robbery and murder of online taxi driver Muhammad Imran, whose body was found in a drainage ditch in Asahan. Investigators say he was allegedly robbed in Deli Serdang, and are continuing to search for stolen property and other evidence.

Dino Patti Denies Meeting Singapore’s Ambassador, but Says He Will Invite Him to Dinner

Former deputy foreign minister Dino Patti Djalal has denied a social media claim that he visited Singapore’s ambassador in Jakarta, saying he was in Perth at the time. He called the posts fabricated and potentially part of a coordinated effort to intimidate critics, and said he would raise the issue with Communications and Digital Affairs Minister Meutya Hafid.

15 Million Workers at Risk of Losing Their Livelihoods to AI in Goldman Sachs’ Worst-Case Scenario

Goldman Sachs estimates that AI could displace up to 9 per cent of workers in the United States and other advanced economies—equivalent to around 15 million people—as businesses automate tasks and raise productivity. The bank expects disruption to build gradually, but warns that an economic slowdown could accelerate AI-related automation and job losses, worsening the broader business cycle.

Ojol Driver Injured in BYD Crash in South Jakarta Receives Rp20 Million Treatment Guarantee from Jasa Raharja

Jasa Raharja has guaranteed up to Rp20 million in medical costs for an online motorcycle-taxi driver injured in a multi-vehicle crash involving an electric car in South Jakarta. The state-owned insurer has also visited the hospital and coordinated with staff to monitor his treatment and ensure the guarantee is implemented.

Dradjad Outlines Indonesia’s Economic Growth and 2027 Target

The government is targeting 6 per cent economic growth in 2027 and 8 per cent over the medium term, supported by investment, productivity and higher-value exports. Deputy Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Dradjad Hari Wibowo cited solid economic fundamentals, improving manufacturing activity and strong banking indicators, while outlining measures to boost investment and household welfare.

Airlangga Says Risk of Indonesia’s Stock Market Downgrade Can Be Mitigated

Co-ordinating Economic Affairs Minister Airlangga Hartarto said a possible MSCI reclassification of Indonesia from Emerging Market to Standalone Market would not necessarily deter foreign investment, as investors also use indices such as S&P and FTSE Russell. The government has until June 2027 to pursue capital-market reforms, including raising the minimum public float to 15 per cent and demutualising the Indonesia Stock Exchange.

Do Not Buy These: 38 Dangerous Illegal Medicines and Herbal Remedies

Indonesia’s Food and Drug Monitoring Agency (BPOM) has identified 38 illegal traditional-medicine products during inspections in July 2026, including products containing the pharmaceutical ingredient pyrimidenafil. The agency is investigating those involved in producing, distributing and promoting them, and has urged consumers to be wary of products making exaggerated promises of instant effects.

Pertamina: Supported MSMEs Deliver Social Benefits to Communities

Pertamina says its supported micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) are generating benefits beyond profit, including preserving batik traditions, creating opportunities for women and people with disabilities, and supporting local craftspeople. The state-owned energy company says its training, business mentoring and market access programmes have helped three enterprises expand their reach, including overseas.

Government accelerates land clearing for rice fields in Merauke to boost food production

The government is accelerating its People’s Rice Field Development programme in South Papua, where 45,993 hectares are planned for development across 2025 and 2026. Deputy Agriculture Minister Muhammad Saleh Mustafa says infrastructure, farm inputs and farmer institutions must be strengthened alongside land expansion to raise output and ensure farmers benefit through better market access and bargaining power.

UN food aid for Gaza refugees to be cut due to funding shortfall

The World Food Programme says funding shortages will force it to suspend monthly assistance for 500,000 people in Gaza. A further 1.1 million Palestinians—about half the territory’s population—will continue to receive food or cash assistance, but at reduced levels, despite urgent humanitarian needs.

Jakarta Metro Police Distribute 1,000 Food Parcels to Kampung Ambon Residents

Jakarta Metro Police distributed 1,000 food parcels and provided health services, including general treatment and circumcision, to residents of Kampung Ambon in West Jakarta. The initiative forms part of a wider social-recovery effort following intensive action against drug trafficking, with police saying that enforcement must be accompanied by support addressing residents’ welfare and local conditions.

NTB Police Seize 1,734 Litres of Subsidised Fuel in East Lombok

Police in West Nusa Tenggara seized 1,734 litres of subsidised Pertalite from a house in East Lombok following a public tip-off about alleged fuel misuse and hoarding. A farmer and a car believed to have been used to transport the fuel were also detained as investigators examine its origin, destination and possible involvement of others.

Indonesia Cuts Gas Supplies as Singapore Looks to Nuclear Power for Electricity

Indonesia has reduced natural gas exports to Singapore to redirect supplies towards domestic electricity needs, prompting Prime Minister Lawrence Wong to call on parties to honour their commercial contracts. The cut is less than 2% of Singapore’s daily gas demand, but underscores the city-state’s reliance on imported gas and its plans to diversify through LNG and assess nuclear power.

Pramono Tells Late DKI Civil Servants They Cannot Attend Meetings

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung says civil servants who arrive late will be barred from meetings as part of efforts to instil corporate culture and improve workplace discipline. He also says government decisions are made openly through meetings rather than unilaterally.

South Bangka Transmigration Farmers Explore Supply Opportunities with Nutrition Service Unit

Farmers in Batu Betumpang are exploring supplying vegetables to the Pulau Besar Nutrition Fulfilment Service Unit (SPPG), seeking a reliable new market for their produce. With support from an IPB University team, 18 farmers harvested 107 kilograms of vegetables and received guidance on meeting buyer requirements, while the SPPG requested advance coordination on orders.

Vespa S 150 Enters Production Line in Cikarang, with Faster Distribution Expected

PT Piaggio Indonesia has added the Vespa S 150 to the locally assembled models at its Cikarang plant, which previously produced only the Vespa LX. The company expects local production to help improve distribution to dealers and make better use of the facility, which has a maximum annual capacity of 10,000 units.

Gekrafs partners with the National Police to develop the creative economy

The National Creative Economy Movement (Gekrafs) has signed an agreement with the National Police to protect creative works and support the growth of Indonesia’s creative industries. The partnership was announced at the 2026 National Creative Economy Day event, alongside separate agreements and initiatives intended to strengthen the sector’s ecosystem.

Deputy minister urges completion of Suwung waste treatment facility

Deputy Environment Minister Diaz Hendropriyono urged the swift completion of a wastewater treatment facility at Bali’s Suwung Landfill to stop leachate from harming nearby mangroves. He also warned that the landfill could reach capacity within two to three months, calling for household waste sorting alongside improved treatment infrastructure.

Demak Man Arrested at Gilimanuk While Attempting to Take Stolen Motorbike off Bali

Police arrested a 36-year-old man from Demak at Gilimanuk Port as he allegedly attempted to take a motorbike stolen in Tabanan off Bali. The scooter was reportedly taken just hours earlier, and the suspect was also accused of stealing Rp 300,000 in cash.

Targeting US$30 Billion in Investment, Danantara Unveils Flagship Projects

Danantara says it is seeking strategic co-investors to support domestic investment, including in innovation and technology, and to strengthen Indonesian industry and add value to national products. It expects its projects and upcoming regional forums to help mobilise global capital towards Asia, including Indonesia, with an investment target of US$30 billion.

Shocking: Discoverer of Noah’s Ark Says He Was Threatened with Murder

Andrew Jones, founder of Noah’s Ark Scans, says he received death threats and moved home while investigating a possible site of Noah’s Ark in Turkey. The team also faced lengthy permit delays and criticism, but Jones says the search will continue.

Ukrainian Drones Reach 2,500km, Reportedly Setting Russian Plants Ablaze

Ukrainian drone strikes reportedly caused fires at two Russian petrochemical plants producing synthetic rubber and other industrial chemicals, with one facility in Samara officially claimed as a target and a second in Omsk identified through monitoring reports. The reported attacks highlight the reach of Ukraine’s drone campaign and the potential vulnerability of supply chains serving civilian and military industries, although the damage and any effects on Russian weapons production remain unverified.

Iran Draws Up Plan to Cut Undersea Internet Cables, Threatening Major US Investments in the Gulf

Two Iranian security officials told Reuters that Tehran has prepared plans to target undersea communications cables in the Gulf if the United States and Israel attack Iran again. Iran has also warned it could obstruct repairs, although an industry analyst said the global impact may be limited because less than 1% of international bandwidth passes through the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran Begins Preparing Plans to Cut Undersea Internet Cables in the Gulf

Two senior Iranian security officials told Reuters that Tehran has drawn up plans to target undersea communications cables in the Gulf if the United States and Israel attack Iran again. Iranian officials have also warned that seven major cables in the Strait of Hormuz could be targeted, although analysts say the global impact may be limited because less than one per cent of international bandwidth passes through the strait.

Bantul Regency Says Tourism Awareness Is Growing Among Residents in the Southern Coastal Area

Bantul Regency says local communities are increasingly developing and managing new tourism destinations along the southern coast, creating opportunities for local economic activity. Residents have built facilities at Tall Wolu Beach through self-funding, while the local government says limited budgets have constrained its support.

Indonesia links land conservation to aquatic ecosystem protection

Indonesia is promoting an integrated approach to environmental protection, linking land conservation with the health of rivers, lakes and oceans. Community-led peatland and mangrove programmes, stronger controls on land-based plastic waste and proposed extended producer responsibility rules are among the measures, while Indonesia is also advocating international action to protect karst groundwater ecosystems.

Pramono Praises Jakarta Infrastructure Improvements Funded Without Regional Budget

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung says repairs to key infrastructure and public spaces, including Semanggi, Bundaran HI and Bundaran Dukuh Atas, are being financed by private-sector partners rather than the regional budget. He says the projects reflect growing business confidence and hopes this will help attract investors, as Jakarta draws more international events and visitors.

Dino Patti Djalal Denies Claims He Met Singapore’s Ambassador, Citing His Alibi

Former deputy foreign minister Dino Patti Djalal has rejected social media claims that he and political analyst Saiful Mujani met Singapore’s ambassador to Indonesia amid tensions between the two countries. Dino said he was in Perth attending an international climate change conference and warned that fabricated posts may be part of a coordinated campaign to intimidate civil society and undermine freedom of speech.

Deputy Minister for SMEs Opens Kumitra Jamboree 2026 in Banjarmasin

Deputy Minister for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Helvi Moraza opened the Kumitra Jamboree 2026 in Banjarmasin, bringing together central and regional governments, businesses, financial institutions and SME associations. South Kalimantan has more than 518,000 SMEs, and the event included agreements for People’s Business Credit (KUR) loans to eligible micro-enterprises to improve access to finance.

Jakarta to Upgrade Kota Bambu Pedestrian Bridge for Disabled and Older People

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has ordered the city’s Bina Marga agency to improve facilities at the Kota Bambu pedestrian bridge, following complaints that it is inaccessible to disabled people and older residents. The bridge provides access to several hospitals, including Harapan Kita and Dharmais; the provincial government also plans to demolish non-functioning pedestrian bridges from October to November 2026, with some improvement work due to begin in early 2027.

Gladen Alit Jemparingan Welcomes Youth Pledge Day in Semarang

A Gladen Alit Jemparingan event was held in Semarang to mark Indonesia’s 2026 Youth Pledge Day and promote the preservation of jemparingan, a traditional Mataram-style form of archery. The activity highlights efforts to sustain a practice recognised as Indonesian Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Klaten Steps Up Outreach for 13-Year Compulsory Education Programme

Klaten Regency is promoting wider access to early childhood education as part of Indonesia’s 13-year compulsory education programme, which includes a year of pre-primary schooling before primary school. Officials say 4,369 children in the regency remain without early-childhood education services, prompting efforts to expand coverage and strengthen community participation.

Danantara Says Technology and Digital Talent Roadmaps Must Become Impactful Investments

Danantara Indonesia says the country must turn its technology and digital talent roadmaps into commercially viable, scalable investments with lasting national benefits. It wants government and state-owned enterprises to act as early buyers of domestic technology, while a new semiconductor chip-design training initiative aims to develop up to 15,000 Indonesian talents.

Tens of Thousands of Foreign Visitors Attend Kanye West Concert at GBK; Pramono Says Jakarta’s Macroeconomy Is Holding Up

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung says the capital’s economy remains resilient amid global pressures, citing large events that attract international visitors and generate activity across local sectors. He highlighted a Kanye West concert, the Jakarta Running Festival and Pestapora, while noting that Jakarta’s reported economic growth of 5.52 per cent exceeded the national rate of 5.29 per cent.

Bali Governor Warns Hotels Over Failure to Source Locally

Bali Governor Wayan Koster says hotels and restaurants that do not make adequate use of local products will face stepped-up inspections, three formal warnings and potentially a review of their business licences. He argues that sourcing locally can channel tourism spending to farmers, fishers, artisans and small businesses, while also reinforcing policies supporting Balinese textiles and traditional dress.

Woman Killed in Crocodile Attack While Bathing in Bondo Kodi River, Southwest Sumba

A 24-year-old woman, Selviana Ambu Kaka, was killed in a crocodile attack while bathing in the Bondo Kodi River in Southwest Sumba, East Nusa Tenggara. Her body was found several hours later, about 25 to 30 metres from where she was attacked, with multiple bite wounds.

Polri and GEKRAFS Sign MoU to Protect Creative Works and Promote the Sector’s Potential

Indonesia’s National Police (Polri) and the National Creative Economy Movement (GEKRAFS) have signed an MoU to support the creative industries, including protecting creative works and developing the sector’s potential. The agreement was announced at the 2026 National Creative Economy Day summit, where GEKRAFS also signed separate agreements with Indonesia’s Consulate General in Pakistan and the Ministry of Law.

Klaten Regency Government Encourages Santri to Help Realise a Golden Indonesia

Klaten’s acting regent has urged Islamic boarding-school students to contribute to national development through continued study and fostering social harmony, linking their role to the vision of a Golden Indonesia 2045. The regency government also pledged continued support for Islamic educational institutions, particularly pesantren.

Latest Update on Ride-Hailing Driver Run Over by BYD in Blok M

A 56-year-old ride-hailing driver is recovering at Fatmawati Hospital after suffering a broken left leg in a multi-vehicle crash involving a BYD in South Jakarta. Police say the BYD driver has been named a suspect, but investigators are still examining what caused the collision.

Nine Companies in IPO Queue, IDX Offers a Glimpse

Nine companies are in the Indonesia Stock Exchange’s IPO pipeline, spanning healthcare, basic materials, energy and financials. The exchange says seven firms have listed so far in 2026, raising a combined Rp2.16 trillion.

SAR Team Evacuates 19 Passengers from Motorboat Disabled in Central Sulawesi

A joint search and rescue team evacuated 19 people after their motorboat suffered engine failure in the waters off Banggai Islands Regency, Central Sulawesi. All passengers, including the boat’s captain, were brought safely to Tangkiang Port and were reported to be in good health.

UI Economist Highlights Weak Law Enforcement and Its Impact on Investors

University of Indonesia economist Edy Priyono says inconsistent enforcement, regulatory loopholes and concerns over the independence of law-enforcement officials are undermining Indonesia’s investment climate. He argues that reform must extend beyond the capital market to goods and services and labour markets, as legal uncertainty also troubles businesses investing in the real economy.

Bantul Promotes Community-Based Tourism Development

Bantul Regency is backing community-managed tourism through village tourism initiatives, with officials providing mentoring and identifying destinations for more targeted support. The approach aims to spread tourism benefits more evenly and help local groups achieve sustainable economic independence, while tourism revenues remain with the communities that manage the sites.

At Least 300 Houthi Fighters Neutralised in Yemen in a Day

Yemen’s military says its forces neutralised 307 Houthi fighters, including commanders, during 736 operations over 24 hours, and destroyed or damaged 68 military vehicles and weapons. The offensive, dubbed Dawn of Yemen, targeted command centres, troop concentrations, weapons depots and supply routes, amid ongoing fighting in Taiz and a wider conflict that has divided control of the country since 2014.

Mayapada Hospital strengthens neurological and brain care services

Mayapada Hospital Jakarta Selatan is strengthening neurological care through a medical forum involving more than 2,000 doctors, with sessions on multidisciplinary treatment and advanced neurosurgical techniques. The initiative supports the hospital’s Tahir Neuroscience Center and comes amid Indonesia’s substantial stroke burden, with the hospital citing its international standards and recognition as a stroke-ready facility.

Pramono Bans Late Officials from Meetings, Even if They Are One Minute Late

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung says officials who arrive late to meetings at City Hall will be asked not to attend, as part of efforts to instil discipline among civil servants. He also says decisions at City Hall should be made openly through meetings, reflecting a corporate culture of transparency and collective decision-making.

Police: People Injured in Shooting Near Florida University Stadium

A shooting near Florida A&M University’s Bragg Memorial Stadium left an unspecified number of people injured, prompting police investigations and shelter-in-place warnings across Tallahassee. Authorities said the area was secured, while the cause and circumstances of the shooting remain under investigation; officials reported no indication that Florida State University community members were involved.

Farmers in Aceh Tamiang harvest rice by hand amid flooding

Farmers in Bendahara, Aceh Tamiang, are harvesting rice manually as floodwater from a breached river embankment continues to inundate fields. The prolonged flooding has caused rice stalks to rot and grains to fall, while damaged crops, limited labour and inaccessible machinery threaten the livelihoods of more than 100 farmers.

Indonesia Cuts Gas Exports to Singapore by 31 BBTUD as Aspermigas Flags Investment Risks

SKK Migas has cut gas supplies to Singapore by 31 billion British thermal units per day, drawing concern from Aspermigas that altering contracted allocations could undermine investor confidence. The association says domestic supply needs must be balanced with export rights and contractual certainty; the cut represents about 2 per cent of Singapore’s gas demand, according to a report cited by its chairman.

PHE Pushes for Cross-Border CCS Projects in Asia-Pacific

Pertamina Hulu Energi is advocating long-term regulatory, institutional and financial certainty to attract Japanese emitters to cross-border carbon capture and storage projects in Indonesia. The company aims to reach a final investment decision on the Asia-Pacific region’s first commercial cross-border CCS project within two to three years, with the goal of making Indonesia a regional carbon storage hub.

Kanye West Concert Wraps Up; Pramono Says BTS to Perform in December and Westlife in January

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung says the city is consolidating its position as a destination for major international concerts, with BTS and Westlife among the acts expected in the coming months. He argues that international events are supporting the capital’s economy, citing attendance at Ye’s concert and an estimated Rp 250 billion in spending generated by the Pestapora festival.

Military Ceremony Held for Former TNI Commander Widodo AS at Kalibata Heroes Cemetery

Former Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) commander Widodo Adi Sutjipto was buried with military honours at Kalibata Heroes Cemetery in South Jakarta. Senior officials and former president Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono attended the ceremony, where the current TNI commander praised Widodo’s service as an example to others.

Telkom (TLKM) Expands AI Data Centre Capacity as BRI Danareksa Sets Rp3,500 Share Price Target

Telkom is expanding its NeutraDC data centre in Batam to 118 MW and plans to grow Telin’s enterprise value to Rp40 trillion–Rp45 trillion by 2030, positioning both businesses to benefit from demand for AI and global connectivity. BRI Danareksa maintains a buy rating and a Rp3,500 target price for TLKM, while warning that major power and water constraints, higher investment needs and insufficient 5G spending remain risks.

Border Agency Chief to Build Southernmost Zero-Kilometre Monument in Rote Ndao

BNPPDT chief General Maruli Simanjuntak says construction of a monument marking Indonesia’s southernmost zero-kilometre point in Rote Ndao is expected to begin in the first or second quarter of 2027. He says the project should go hand in hand with basic infrastructure improvements, including roads, clean water and village links, and has called for local bridge repairs to be identified.

Viral Reports Say Indonesian Navy Member Killed Wife in Mataram

An Indonesian Navy member in Mataram is suspected of killing his wife, with the case now under investigation by the Mataram Naval Base’s military police. Officials confirmed the incident occurred in Mataram, not East Lombok, but have not disclosed the suspect’s identity, the circumstances or the alleged motive.

South Korea’s Deadliest Gas Explosion Began with a Drilling Error

A gas leak caused by an unauthorised drilling operation triggered a deadly explosion at a Daegu subway construction site in 1995, killing 100 people and injuring 143. The incident also destroyed 91 vehicles and 74 nearby buildings, highlighting the consequences of striking an underground gas main during construction.

New Sydney International Airport begins operations, with 24-hour flights

Western Sydney International Airport has welcomed its first passenger flight, completing a construction project that took nearly seven years. The airport can operate around the clock, unlike Sydney’s existing airport, and plans to expand capacity from an initial 10 million passengers annually to more than 80 million.

Cak Imin Urges Pesantren to Help Prevent Forest and Land Fires

PKB chairman Muhaimin Iskandar has called on the government to involve Islamic boarding schools and local communities in preventing forest and land fires and protecting the environment, particularly in South Kalimantan. He also highlighted a lack of adequate facilities at pesantren nationwide, saying the state should expand its support for their educational infrastructure.

Pramono Says Jakarta Projects Are Being Built Without APBD Funding, Citing Concerts and JRF

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung says economic activity generated by international concerts and events, including the Jakarta Running Festival, is helping the capital fund development without relying wholly on its regional budget (APBD). He cited renovations at Semanggi, Bundaran HI and Dukuh Atas as projects supported through trust and cooperation with the business sector amid economic pressure on the city government.

Operation Patuh 2026 to Target Drivers Using Phones and Driving Against Traffic

Indonesia’s National Police Traffic Corps will launch Operation Patuh 2026 nationwide from 26 October to 8 November, targeting road-safety violations monitored by electronic traffic cameras. Offences include using a mobile phone while driving, failing to wear a seat belt or compliant helmet, running red lights, speeding and driving against traffic.

Kana Cooperative Targets Indonesia’s Largest Brown Sugar Factory, Partners with ORIX

Kana Cooperative is seeking to expand PT Indogula Jayabaya’s sugar-processing operations in Kediri, aiming to build Indonesia’s largest brown sugar factory using sugar cane. ORIX Indonesia Finance has provided financing support, while Nextcore Innovative Solutions will advise on growth strategy; the financing amount and final production target have not been disclosed.

Indonesian police use sonar and drone to search for missing Komodo diver

East Nusa Tenggara police and a joint search-and-rescue team used sonar and underwater robotic equipment to search for a dive master missing after the Feronia sank in Komodo National Park, but found neither the victim nor the main wreckage. Basarnas ended the operation after ten days, while water police continue patrols and have urged vessels to report any signs of the diver or wreckage.

HRC to Begin Selling Racing Components in 2027

Honda Racing Corporation plans to launch performance components for selected Honda and Acura models from March 2027, including lightweight forged wheels and exhaust systems. The parts will be unveiled at SEMA 2026 and sold through dealerships and Honda’s online shop, giving customers a racing-developed alternative to independent aftermarket upgrades; prices have not yet been announced.

Green Energy Stocks Have Positive Catalysts: Recommendations for BREN, KEEN, TOBA and PGEO

Analysts point to capacity expansion, a proposed buyback and investment in waste-management operations as catalysts for four Indonesian green-energy stocks, while issuing differing recommendations. Their views range from selling BREN into strength to buying KEEN, accumulating or trading TOBA, and holding PGEO, reflecting distinct growth prospects and valuation considerations.

BoP Deemed Ineffective, Indonesia Urged to Consider Other Options to Defend Palestine

An international relations lecturer says Indonesia should review its participation in the Board of Peace (BoP), arguing that the body has not stopped Israel’s actions in Palestine. He urged the government to consult Arab members while pursuing other diplomatic channels, citing Türkiye’s approach as an example.

Lemhannas Urges Press to Build Nationalist Journalism Ahead of Golden Indonesia

Lemhannas Governor TB Ace Hasan Syadzily has urged journalists to practise critical, independent and ethical journalism as Indonesia works towards its 2045 national development goal. He said credible reporting is essential to national resilience and democracy amid digital propaganda, disinformation and polarisation.

Kupang Regency allocates Rp5 billion for Amfoang cultural tourism

Kupang Regency plans to allocate Rp5 billion in 2027 to develop traditional villages in Amfoang as cultural tourism destinations, aiming to bring economic benefits to local communities. The regent also outlined plans for improved road access and agricultural support, while an MP called for sustainable development of the area’s natural resources alongside investment in skills and education.

Business Leader: Hybrid Car Incentives Would Boost Indonesia’s Automotive Sales

Gaikindo chairman Jongki D. Sugiarto says incentives for hybrid vehicles could help lift Indonesian car sales, citing their fuel efficiency, lower pollution and continued use of locally made components. The association expects sales of 800,000 vehicles in 2026 and says incentives could push the figure towards 900,000, while also urging government support for cars priced below Rp300 million, which account for 60 per cent of annual sales.

Sports and Digital Gaming Collaboration Explored to Promote Tourism

Nuswantara and its partners are exploring links between sport, digital gaming and travel to promote Indonesian destinations and local economic potential. Initiatives include a game featuring six destinations, women’s sports and fitness activities, esports outreach and themed travel, as part of preparations for OGFC Unite in April 2027.

Trading Windfall of Rp7.2 Billion: Soldier Faces Up to 20 Years in Prison

A US soldier has been charged with allegedly using confidential military information about the operation to capture Nicolás Maduro to place bets on Polymarket, earning more than US$400,000 (about Rp7.2 billion). The case highlights that federal national-security and insider-trading laws apply to prediction markets, with the soldier facing charges carrying maximum sentences of up to 20 years.

Police Detain Eight Teenagers Suspected of Planning a Brawl in East Jakarta; Machetes and Sickles Seized

Police detained eight teenagers in Cakung, East Jakarta, after a patrol found them allegedly preparing for a brawl, and seized long machetes, sickles, motorbikes and mobile phones. The operation forms part of wider patrols intended to prevent street fights, illegal racing and other crimes, with police urging parents and residents to help identify potential security threats.

OJK Facilitates Digital Financing for MSMEs and Agriculture in Southeast Sulawesi

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) is supporting digital financing across agricultural value chains and micro, small and medium-sized enterprises in Southeast Sulawesi to broaden access to credit and strengthen the regional economy. The initiative will use enterprise resource planning systems and credit scoring, with the province’s economy having grown by 6.19 per cent year on year in the second quarter.

Sri Lankan wind project fuels anger as fish catches plunge

Residents on Sri Lanka’s Mannar peninsula blame a state-owned wind farm for declining fish catches and worsening floods, although they acknowledge that they have no proof linking the turbines to these problems. The dispute has intensified local opposition to further construction even as the government pursues a 70% renewable electricity target by 2030 and fuel costs rise.

SBY, Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs and National Police Chief Attend Funeral of Former TNI Commander Widodo AS

Former Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) commander Widodo Adi Sutjipto was laid to rest at Kalibata Heroes Cemetery in South Jakarta, with former president Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono and senior government and security officials in attendance. Widodo led the TNI from 1999 to 2002 and served as coordinating minister for political, legal and security affairs from 2004 to 2009.

Government Tightens Fuel Distribution Oversight with Energy Guardian Programme for 3,679 Petrol Stations

The government has launched the 2026 Energy Guardian Programme to strengthen oversight of subsidised and assigned fuel distribution at 3,679 petrol stations nationwide. Local graduates will be recruited to monitor supplies, improve oversight data and help prevent leakage and misuse, as part of broader efforts to make energy subsidies transparent and accurately targeted.

Twelve Injured in Shooting at Florida University Homecoming

Twelve people were injured in a shooting near Florida A&M University’s Bragg Memorial Stadium during a homecoming event in Tallahassee. Police said at least three victims were seriously injured and nine were stable; an initial investigation indicated a physical altercation preceded the shooting.

JCI Rebounds to 5,439 in Weekly Trading as Market Capitalisation Reaches Rp 9,583 Trillion

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) rose 4.9% in the week to 23 October, with market capitalisation increasing to Rp 9,583 trillion and average daily transaction value climbing 25.42%. The recovery came amid concerns that MSCI could downgrade Indonesia to standalone-market status, while foreign investors remained net sellers and the Indonesia Stock Exchange adjusted lower auto-rejection limits for certain shares.

Banyuwangi’s Gandrung Sewu 2026 Takes on a Glow-in-the-Dark Concept

Banyuwangi’s annual Gandrung Sewu performance was staged at night for the first time, combining traditional dance with glow-in-the-dark costumes, specially designed lighting and a drone show. The event featured around 1,300 dancers and was praised by local and national officials as an innovative way to keep cultural traditions relevant to younger generations.

JRF, Kanye West and Pestapora Show Jakarta’s Economy Is in Good Shape

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung says major events, including the Jakarta Running Festival, a Kanye West concert and Pestapora, reflect the capital’s resilient macroeconomic condition despite global pressures. He cited more than Rp250 billion in transactions generated by Pestapora and said Jakarta’s 5.52 per cent economic growth exceeded the national rate of 5.29 per cent.