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Found 585,371 articles

Trump Claims Brazil Election Was Rigged After His Ally’s Defeat

Donald Trump alleged, without offering evidence, that Brazil’s presidential election was rigged after incumbent Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva defeated right-wing candidate Flávio Bolsonaro. Lula secured a fourth, non-consecutive term with 51.79 per cent of valid votes, while Flávio called for the result to be annulled.

Indonesia and Azerbaijan Strengthen Investment Cooperation Prospects

Indonesia and Azerbaijan are exploring expanded investment cooperation in energy, processing industries and infrastructure, with Jakarta seeking projects that create greater economic value beyond commodity trade. Officials said limited Azerbaijani investment in Indonesia leaves room for closer institutional coordination and concrete cross-border projects.

Revealed: Government Outlines the Benefits of the Free Nutritious Meals Programme

Indonesia’s Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme is intended to improve nutrition while creating economic opportunities for local businesses and food producers. Government data show that most of its 63,608 suppliers are MSMEs, while officials stress that local sourcing, food-safety standards and reliable procurement will be crucial to spreading the benefits.

Amran Moves Quickly to Help Poultry Farmers, Issues Order

Agriculture Minister and National Food Agency head Amran Sulaiman has ordered Bulog and ID Food to buy Rp30 billion worth of eggs as an emergency measure amid falling prices and oversupply. The move comes as West Java poultry farmers report seven months of losses, while the government also considers channelling eggs through its free nutritious meals programme and building an egg-processing plant.

Forest and Land Fires in Garut Surge to 173.7 Hectares

Garut Regency recorded 173.7 hectares of land and forest burned in 2026, with most damage occurring between July and October. Fire incidents also climbed sharply: 641 were recorded by 25 October, including 403 land fires, compared with 225 fires in all of 2025.

Brunei Darussalam Proposed as Host of Borneo-wide Quran Recitation Competition in 2028

Brunei Darussalam has been proposed to host the 2028 Borneo-wide international Musabaqah Tilawatil Quran, subject to the Sultan’s approval. East Kalimantan and Sabah have offered to serve as alternative hosts, as delegates seek to maintain the event and strengthen cooperation among Quran recitation and memorisation institutions across Borneo.

BNI Customer Deposits Keep Growing, but What About Profits?

BNI’s third-quarter 2026 deposits reached Rp1,124.59 trillion, up 20.36% year on year and 64.12% from the third quarter of 2022. Net profit recovered by 6.62% to Rp16.12 trillion in January–September 2026, but remained below its 2024 level and grew much more slowly than deposits over the four-year comparison.

KPK Begins Calling Witnesses in Case Involving Suspended Klaten Regent

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has begun questioning four Central Java Audit Board officials in its investigation into alleged corruption in Klaten Regency. The case involves alleged bribery to influence audits, as well as suspected corruption in procurement, mining permits and payments from local government agencies.

Cigarette Butt Sparks Land Fire on Tidung Island in the Thousand Islands

A discarded cigarette butt is suspected of causing a fire that burned 300 square metres of grassland on Tidung Island, north of Jakarta. Firefighters and local residents brought the blaze under control within about an hour, prompting officials to urge the public to dispose of cigarettes safely and take basic fire precautions.

Residents Shocked After Dwi Bagus Killed His Unregistered Wife and Child: He Had Just Returned from the Hajj

Neighbours in Madiun said they were stunned by the alleged killings of Dini Hardiyanti and her four-year-old child, describing Dwi Bagus as a kind person with no known criminal history. Their disbelief was heightened by the fact that he had recently completed the Hajj pilgrimage.

Karangasem Regent Inaugurates Six Civil Servants, Stresses Integrity and Discipline

Karangasem Regent I Gusti Putu Parwata has sworn in six civil servants and functional officials, urging them to uphold integrity, professionalism and discipline. He called on department heads to clarify the new officials’ responsibilities and performance targets, while building collaborative, accountable teams focused on public service.

US Military Plans to Protect Bases with Private Contractors

The US Air Force is exploring a contractor-run, subscription-style counter-drone service after Iranian missile and drone attacks exposed vulnerabilities at American bases in the Middle East. The initial plan would assess systems at two unnamed US bases, with stringent detection, response and availability targets, but no contract or final operating model has yet been decided.

Agriculture Minister Sets Aside Rp600 Billion in Subsidies for Poultry Farmers

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman says the government will provide Rp600 billion in subsidies over 2026–2027 to support 300,000 hectares of maize cultivation for poultry feed. The plan links maize farmers with poultry producers through cooperatives, with Bulog acting as a buyer of surplus output, alongside price controls for soybean meal and additional farm equipment support.

Jakarta Traffic Police Chief Visits Ojol Driver Run Over by BYD, Prays for His Recovery

Jakarta Metro Police traffic chief Firman Darmansyah visited an online motorcycle taxi driver who was struck and run over by a BYD electric car in South Jakarta, and prayed for his recovery. Police say they will cover the victim’s medical treatment, while the driver of the BYD has been named a suspect after a collision involving four cars.

Indonesia and Australia deepen cooperation on immigration and crime-fighting

Indonesia and Australia have agreed to strengthen information-sharing and coordination between their agencies, including efforts to combat cross-border online scams. The ministers also reaffirmed cooperation on immigration management, law enforcement and border protection, describing closer ties as beneficial to citizens and regional security.

Not Transparency or Liquidity: MSCI’s Remaining Concern About Indonesia’s Capital Market

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) says enforcement remains the sole area of Indonesia’s capital market that has yet to meet MSCI’s expectations, while disclosure, transparency and liquidity requirements have been addressed. OJK chief Friderica Widyasari Dewi cited large penalties—including a Rp1.5 trillion sanction in one case—as part of efforts to strengthen enforcement and said further updates would follow soon.

Burnt Body Case in Batukliang Upgraded to Investigation, Police Find Sharp-Weapon Wounds

Police in Central Lombok have upgraded their investigation into the death of a 57-year-old woman found burnt behind her home, after a medical examination revealed apparent sharp-weapon injuries. No suspect has been named, and investigators say the fire-damaged crime scene is creating technical difficulties.

Never Process Meat from Animals That Die Suddenly: The Health Risks

Four residents of Gunungkidul Regency tested positive for anthrax after eating meat from a sick goat that died suddenly. A veterinary expert warns that meat and offal from animals suspected of anthrax must not be consumed, as cooking may not neutralise the spores and contaminated products can transmit the disease to humans.

Claims That BPJS Health Will Be Abolished: What the Facts Say

BPJS Kesehatan has denied social media claims that Indonesia’s National Health Insurance programme will be scrapped and transferred to clinics run by the Merah Putih Village Cooperative. The agency says JKN services continue as usual and stresses that both its mandate and its role in providing social protection are grounded in law.

Metro Jaya Police Arrest Three Members of Viral Motorcycle Theft Gang in Bekasi

Metro Jaya Police have arrested three men from a motorcycle theft gang originally from Tanggamus, Lampung, whose theft was captured on CCTV and went viral on social media. The suspects allegedly targeted vehicles in minimarket car parks and residential areas, and have been charged with aggravated theft under Article 477 of the Criminal Code.

Britons Urged to Stockpile Food and Water and Prepare for War Within 1,000 Days

UK Defence Minister Wes Streeting says hostile powers could be capable of attacking Britain by 2030, leaving the country just over 1,000 days to prepare alongside its allies. The government’s “Be Ready” campaign urges households to keep three days’ worth of food and nine litres of drinking water, as officials warn that cyberattacks, extreme weather and other emergencies could disrupt essential services.

JAMAK opposes including ‘illicit enrichment’ in Asset Forfeiture Bill

The Anti-Criminalisation Lawyers and Community Network (JAMAK) has opposed adding illicit enrichment provisions to the Asset Forfeiture Bill, arguing they could undermine constitutional rights, legal certainty and the presumption of innocence. Its representative says unexplained increases in wealth do not automatically prove criminal proceeds and warns against imposing reverse-burden proof across the board.

BPBD warns of potential tidal flooding along Tangerang’s northern coast

Tangerang Regency’s disaster agency has urged residents along the northern coast to remain alert to tidal flooding, with elevated sea levels forecast from 25 to 31 October 2026. The BPBD says it has personnel and logistics ready, and recommends residents organise rotating neighbourhood watches as water levels may vary by location.

OJK Opens Up About the One Issue MSCI Has Flagged with Indonesia’s Stock Exchange

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) says enforcement is the only area where Indonesia’s capital market has yet to meet MSCI’s expectations, while requirements on disclosure, transparency and liquidity have been addressed. OJK says it has imposed major sanctions and is forming an independent committee to examine high shareholder concentration, as it seeks to strengthen investor confidence.

France Cancels Teacher Cuts to Ease Pressure on Students

France has scrapped planned cuts to 836 state secondary-school posts and will add 500 teaching positions as part of measures to reduce academic pressure. The government will also cap class sizes at 28 in stages from 2027 and provide €4 billion in subsidised loans to local authorities for school renovations.

Grand Millennium Shanghai HongQiao marks 20 years in mainland China

Grand Millennium Shanghai HongQiao is marking its 20th anniversary, commemorating the start of Millennium Hotels and Resorts’ mainland China operations in 2006. The hotel’s milestone highlights its long-standing business and travel partnerships, community charity work and role in the group’s continued commitment to the Chinese market.

Husband Who Killed Wife and Child in Madiun Faces Death Penalty

East Java Police have charged Dwi Bagus Martono with premeditated murder over the deaths of his partner and her four-year-old child in Madiun. If convicted under the new Criminal Code provision, he faces the death penalty, life imprisonment or a maximum 20-year prison term; investigators say the child was also killed because the suspect feared the child could be a witness.

Bappenas Receives AA Rating in 2026 Legal Reform Index Assessment

Bappenas has received the highest AA (outstanding) rating, with a score of 100, in Indonesia’s 2026 Legal Reform Index, marking its fourth consecutive year at this level. The recognition highlights the role of stronger regulatory governance in supporting national development, alongside a national agenda focused on regulatory impact analysis, harmonisation, evidence-based review and improved access to legal information.

Pertamina Highlights the Importance of ASEAN Energy Collaboration at 51st ASCOPE

Pertamina President Director Simon Aloysius Mantiri called for stronger strategic cooperation among ASEAN countries to bolster regional energy resilience amid challenges involving oil and gas assets, investment needs and supply sustainability. At the 51st ASCOPE, participants also stressed collaboration to optimise upstream oil and gas asset management.

Two Years of Prabowo-Gibran: Pushan Says Law Enforcement Has Grown Stronger

The Centre for Government Law and Anti-Corruption Studies (Pushan) says law enforcement has made positive progress during President Prabowo Subianto and Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s first two years, citing political support and limited interference. It highlights five priorities for the next three years, including tackling corruption in strategic sectors, reforming law-enforcement institutions and improving governance, while calling for stronger legal frameworks and evaluation of public officials.

Children Draw Youth Pledge Day Postcards to Foster Nationalism

Pupils from Bromantakan State Elementary School in Solo took part in a mass postcard-drawing activity ahead of Youth Pledge Day. The event was intended to instil patriotism and introduce children to the contributions of national heroes from an early age.

KPK Summons South Sorong Regent as Witness in Pemalang Regent Extortion Case

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned South Sorong Regent Petronela Krenak as a witness in an alleged extortion case involving Pemalang’s inactive regent, Anom Widiyantoro. Investigators suspect Rp1.98 billion was collected through Anom’s associate, with some of the money allegedly going to a private individual who claimed he could handle cases at the KPK through his son, an agency staff member.

Riau Police Seize 35kg of Crystal Meth from International Network Originating in Malaysia

Riau police have seized 35kg of crystal methamphetamine allegedly smuggled from Malaysia and arrested five suspects in operations across Riau and West Sumatra. Investigators say one suspect was acting as a coordinator and that the network was controlled by a figure in Malaysia; a suspected recruiter who travelled to Malaysia has been named as a wanted person.

Women Snap Up Government Debt as SBR015 Sales Top Rp17 Trillion

Indonesia raised more than Rp17 trillion through its retail Savings Bond (SBR015), with proceeds set to support the 2026 state budget financing target. Women made up 58.32% of investors and accounted for 50.68% of purchases by value, while millennials were the largest investor group by number.

1,000 Poultry Farmers Visit Amran’s Office, Cry Out Over Mounting Losses

Agriculture Minister and National Food Agency head Amran Sulaiman says the government is redirecting nearly Rp1 trillion to support farmers and poultry producers, including through an integrated corn supply scheme. Poultry farmers say low egg prices have left them losing Rp4,000–Rp5,000 per kilogram for seven months, forcing many to close their farms; the government is also preparing emergency egg purchases and processing capacity.

KPK Summons Six Witnesses in Railway Project Case Across Two Provinces

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned six witnesses as it investigates alleged bribery linked to railway construction and maintenance projects in West Java and South Sumatra. The case, which began with a KPK sting operation in April 2023, has led to 22 individual suspects and two corporate suspects being named.

Bima Police Arrest Suspect in 500-Gram Meth Case After He Jumps into the Sea

Police in Bima, West Nusa Tenggara, have arrested a 26-year-old man who was wanted in connection with ordering more than half a kilogram of methamphetamine; he allegedly tried to evade arrest by jumping into the sea. Officers seized 3.27 grammes of methamphetamine and other items, while investigating his role in a case that has already led to the arrests of two couriers and the alleged supplier.

Manpower Minister aims to complete initial discussions on 2027 provincial minimum wages by late November

Manpower Minister Yassierli expects the ministry-level preliminary review of provincial minimum wages (UMP) for 2027 to be completed in the final week of November 2026. The process will involve national and regional wage councils, and the government is still assessing decent living needs while applying the formula set out in Government Regulation No. 49 of 2025.

Bahlil Explains Fuel Import Scheme Through Public Service Agency, from Procurement to Pertamina

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia says a new presidential regulation will place a public service agency in charge of procuring crude oil, fuel and LPG, which Pertamina will then buy from the agency. The government expects direct negotiations with supplier countries and companies to improve supply certainty and overcome delays and failed deliveries under Pertamina’s previous tender-based system.

Thousands evacuate India's eastern coast ahead of Cyclone Arnab

Nearly 50,000 people have been moved to shelters in Andhra Pradesh ahead of Cyclone Arnab, with authorities estimating that up to 400,000 may need evacuation before the storm makes landfall. The cyclone is also prompting transport disruptions and warnings in Nepal over possible heavy rain, snowstorms and avalanches, highlighting the region's exposure to severe weather.

Batang Hari Regency downgrades forest and land fire status to alert

Batang Hari Regency in Jambi has lowered its forest and land fire response status from emergency response to alert after forecasts indicated rain was likely on five days during the coming week. Although no active fires have been detected in the past two days, hotspots remain and cooling operations and monitoring will continue.

Police Urge the Public to Keep Public Spaces Safe Ahead of Youth Pledge Day

Metro Jaya Police have urged residents to help keep public spaces safe and orderly ahead of Youth Pledge Day, amid plans for public demonstrations. The force says it respects the right to express opinions while stressing the need to protect participants, other residents, public facilities and traffic flow.

Bali immigration arrests 17 foreigners over online loan syndicate

Bali immigration officials have detained 17 Malaysian and Singaporean nationals suspected of misusing residence permits while operating an online lending service from North Kuta. Investigators are assessing the operation, including whether Indonesian customers were involved or borrowers suffered losses, and the suspects could face administrative action under Indonesia’s Immigration Law.

1,100 Footwear Workers in Lebak Laid Off, Hope to Return to Work

Some 1,100 workers at PT Parkland World Indonesia’s Rangkasbitung footwear factory have been laid off after the factory building’s lease expired. Lebak’s labour office says they will be prioritised if a new company opens locally, while former workers hope new investment will revive footwear manufacturing and create jobs.

Stunting Cases in the Thousand Islands Linked to Inadequate Nutrition

Health officials in the Thousand Islands say inadequate nutritional intake accounts for 76.74 per cent of stunting cases, while infections account for 13.9 per cent. There were 38 recorded cases by October 2026, representing 2.24 per cent of cases in the regency; local authorities are providing medical nutrition, monitoring children and coordinating preventive measures across agencies.

Iran, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye and Pakistan Back Regional Security Without Foreign Intervention

Officials from Iran, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye and Pakistan discussed regional security in Tehran and agreed that West Asian security should be shaped by countries in the region, without outside interference. The talks also covered Israeli activity and developments in Palestine and Lebanon, but ended without concrete announcements, with participants agreeing to continue discussions.

Pertamina Calls for ASEAN Energy Collaboration at 51st ASCOPE

Pertamina President Director Simon Aloysius Mantiri urged ASEAN countries to strengthen strategic cooperation to improve regional energy resilience amid challenges involving oil and gas assets, investment and supply sustainability. At the 51st ASEAN Council on Petroleum (ASCOPE), officials also highlighted knowledge-sharing as key to extending field productivity, attracting exploration investment and managing end-of-life infrastructure responsibly.

After Election Defeat, Bolsonaro Faces Money-Laundering Probe

A Brazilian court has ordered right-wing politician and senator Flavio Bolsonaro to surrender all his passports, including his diplomatic passport, as federal police investigate alleged money laundering. Investigators say evidence points to financial links between Bolsonaro and lawyer Willer Tomaz, while Bolsonaro has rejected the allegations as “fake news”.

Australian Made puts Singaporean approval centre-stage of its new campaign launch

Australian Made Campaign Limited has launched a three-month campaign in Singapore to raise awareness of Australian-made products and the green-and-gold kangaroo certification mark. The initiative will use digital and outdoor advertising, events and promotions to build consumer recognition and trust, while emphasising that the mark is restricted to products meeting defined Australian-origin criteria.

How the Brutal Murders of Dwi Bagus’s Wife and Child Began: Both Wives Needed Him on the Same Day

Police say Dwi Bagus Martono allegedly killed his second wife, Dini Hardiyanti, and her four-year-old child in Madiun on 20 September 2026. Investigators say the events began the previous day, when he and Dini booked a hotel to celebrate the child’s birthday, while his legal wife also asked him to collect her.

UNG Student Wins Young Scholars Award at IAPA Conference

Ichsan Budiman Wantogia, a doctoral student in public administration at Gorontalo State University (UNG), has received the Young Scholars Award at the 2026 IAPA Annual Conference and ICPSH FISIP Unsoed. The recognised research examines social conflict resolution in a gold-mining concession in Bone Bolango and highlights the role of collaborative governance in bringing government, communities and businesses into dialogue.

Industry Minister Urges Toyota to Expand Electric Car Production and Exports

Industry Minister Muhammad Sarmuji has urged Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indonesia to increase vehicle exports, expand battery-electric vehicle production and consider making double-cab vehicles locally. He cited Australia as a promising export market and said the government could help improve the production ecosystem, while Toyota says it is preparing additional BEV models suited to Indonesian consumers.

Government commits to expanding access to education

The government says it is working to widen access to education through improved learning, support for teachers and infrastructure that helps children reach schools, particularly in remote areas. Bakom head Syahganda Nainggolan also highlighted teacher welfare measures and the need for collaboration across ministries to make education more equitable.

Health Ministry and IDI Deepen Health Financing and Doctor Protection Reforms

Indonesia’s Health Ministry and the Indonesian Medical Association have pledged to advance reforms to National Health Insurance financing and improve doctors’ welfare, legal protection and working conditions. With JKN coverage at 99.10 per cent by August 2026 and service demand up 75 per cent since 2019, the partners say fairer financing and safer workplaces are essential to equitable, quality healthcare.

IDX Reviews Indices, Adding New Stocks to LQ45 and IDX30

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) has announced its October 2026 major review of several indices, with the changes taking effect from 2 November 2026 to 29 January 2027. Semen Indonesia will join the LQ45, while Indosat and Bukit Asam enter the IDX30; Surya Citra Media, Pertamina Geothermal Energy and Unilever Indonesia will leave their respective indices.

Singapore Foreign Minister Makes Surprise Visit to Indonesia Today: What Is Behind It?

Singapore Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan is expected to meet Indonesia’s government amid tensions over reduced piped-gas supplies and smoke haze from Indonesian forest fires. The visit has not yet been officially confirmed by Singapore, as both countries face disputes over energy commitments and the cross-border environmental impact of the fires.

Heavy Rain Persists Across Aceh and North Sumatra: BMKG Explains the Causes and Issues Warning

BMKG says three days of heavy to extreme rain in Aceh and North Sumatra have been driven by atmospheric conditions, including a cyclonic circulation near the Andaman Sea, the Madden–Julian Oscillation and equatorial Rossby waves—not Tropical Cyclone ARNAB. It has issued heavy-rain warnings for several provinces and urges people, particularly in northern Sumatra, to follow official forecasts as significant rain and strong winds may continue over the coming week.

52 BSA Participants Attend Special Training at Paragon Office

Fifty-two village heads taking part in the 2026 Benyamin S Award received training from ParagonCorp on marketing and content creation. The DKI Jakarta administration said the programme recognises all participants and aims to help village heads communicate their initiatives more effectively, particularly through social media.

At 51st ASCOPE, Pertamina Highlights the Importance of Energy Collaboration in ASEAN

Pertamina chief executive Simon Aloysius Mantiri called for stronger strategic cooperation among ASEAN countries to bolster regional energy resilience amid challenges involving oil and gas assets, investment needs and supply sustainability. Speaking at the 51st ASEAN Council on Petroleum in Bali, he said regional strength depends on countries contributing their distinct capabilities towards shared goals and praised ASCOPE as a long-standing forum for cooperation.

Golkar MP Gandung Pardiman Dies After Being Treated for Fever

Gandung Pardiman, a Golkar Party member of Indonesia’s House of Representatives for Yogyakarta, has died in hospital aged 73 after being admitted with a fever. He was due to be buried in his family plot in Ponjong, Gunungkidul, in accordance with arrangements he made while still healthy.

Ahead of Q3 GDP Release, Government Seeks to Improve Industrial Data

The government is coordinating with Statistics Indonesia (BPS) and the Ministry of Industry to improve industrial statistics ahead of the release of third-quarter 2026 economic growth figures in early November. Officials say better-aligned data will help identify growth sources, shape targeted policies and assess opportunities to boost industrial activity, including by increasing production-capacity utilisation.

Full Rules on Regional Government Debt for 2027: This Limit Must Not Be Exceeded

Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara has set the maximum cumulative regional debt financing for the 2027 fiscal year at 0.18% of projected GDP, up from 0.11% in 2026. The annual limit on regional budget deficits remains 2.5% of estimated regional revenue, although local governments may exceed it with the Finance Minister’s approval and subject to fiscal and debt-service conditions.

Unitree Robotics shares surge by more than 60% in under two weeks despite industry risk warning

Unitree Robotics shares have climbed more than 60 per cent since 15 October, buoyed by investor enthusiasm for humanoid robots and a sharp upgrade to the stock’s rating and price target by JPMorgan. The company has warned that the industry remains in the early stages of commercialisation, with uncertainties around technology, demand and supply-chain readiness, underscoring the risks behind the rally.

IDX: Excluding HSC shares from the Composite Index will not reduce total market capitalisation

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) says removing High Shareholding Concentration (HSC) stocks from the Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) will not affect Indonesia’s total equity market capitalisation, as those shares will remain listed and included in the overall market-cap figure. The exchange says 82 stocks currently meet the HSC criteria, and their JCI weighting is about 18 per cent, while they represent roughly 30 per cent of total market capitalisation; the exclusion is intended to strengthen the index’s credibility and will be reviewed periodically.

GPS Tracking Leads Police to Recover Stolen Motorbike in Jelambar

Police recovered a motorbike stolen in Jelambar, West Jakarta, after tracking its GPS signal to Muara Baru, although the suspect escaped during a chase. Officers said the same victim had previously had another motorbike theft thwarted after police used GPS tracking, and urged residents to secure their vehicles with double locks.

Indonesian police and digital ministry step up online safety efforts

Indonesia’s Communications and Digital Affairs Ministry and National Police have agreed to strengthen cooperation against online threats, including fraud, illegal gambling, cyberbullying and misinformation. The partnership will combine preventive measures and law enforcement to protect the public and improve safety in the digital space.

Indonesia's BNPB uses 14.3 tonnes of seeding materials to fight fires

Indonesia's National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) used 14.3 tonnes of materials in weather-modification operations across Central Kalimantan and South Sumatra, with reported visibility improvements in South Sumatra and rainfall in parts of West Kalimantan and South Kalimantan. Fires were still being tackled across thousands of hectares in Kalimantan and Sumatra, with more than 57,000 ground personnel and 61 aircraft deployed.

The Rise and Fall of Former Gowa Regent Husniah Talenrang: Named a Suspect, Impeached and Detained

Sitti Husniah Talenrang’s tenure as Gowa regent ended after the Supreme Court upheld a motion to remove her and she was formally dismissed. She was also named a suspect in an alleged corruption case involving building-permit approvals and detained for questioning over alleged extortion, illicit gratification and money laundering.

Digital-Era Business Trends Drive Development of Innovative Applications Tailored to Industry Needs

As businesses increasingly rely on digital tools, point-of-sale applications need to reflect the distinct operational requirements of sectors such as food and beverage, retail and services. OttoDigital says its HelloBill platform offers industry-specific functions, including ingredient-stock tracking for F&B businesses and reporting tools to support operational efficiency and long-term sustainability.

HNW Backs Mecca Coalition-Iran Dialogue to Safeguard Middle East Peace

MPR deputy speaker Hidayat Nur Wahid has backed planned talks between Iran and a grouping involving Saudi Arabia, Türkiye and Pakistan, saying they could ease regional tensions and protect the security of Makkah and Madinah. He called on the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation to play a stronger diplomatic role in support of Palestinian statehood and an end to conflict, while criticising Houthi attacks on civilian targets in Saudi Arabia.

Hajj Quota Trial: BPK Auditor Explains Four Stages for Calculating State Losses

A Supreme Audit Agency (BPK) auditor has outlined the four-stage process used to calculate state financial losses while testifying in the alleged corruption case involving additional Hajj quotas for 2023–2024. Former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas and three others are accused of causing losses of Rp622.09 billion.

Puan Maharani’s Husband’s Shares Surge as BUVA Clarifies 50 Billion-Share Rights Issue to IDX

PT Bukit Uluwatu Villa Tbk (BUVA) told the Indonesia Stock Exchange that it knows of no undisclosed material information behind volatility in its shares, apart from its ongoing rights issue. The proposed issue could add up to 50 billion shares—equivalent to a maximum 203.11% of its existing paid-up capital—and the company said it has no other share-affecting corporate actions planned over the next three months.

Three Indonesian Regions on Alert as BMKG Warns of Heavy Rain on 27 October 2026

Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) forecasts moderate to very heavy rain, accompanied by strong winds, in several parts of the country on 27 October. It has issued an alert for heavy to very heavy rain in Yogyakarta, West Java and North Sumatra, while 21 other provinces are under a lower-level warning for moderate to heavy rain.

Industry Minister Meets Toyota Executives to Discuss Hybrid Car Incentives

The Industry Ministry is considering proposing incentives for hybrid cars this year, although the scheme and amount remain under technical review. Toyota has urged the government to support consumer purchasing power to help revive new-car sales, without calling for hybrid incentives to match those for battery electric vehicles.

Minister Yusril Says UNCAC Covers Corruption Beyond Bribery

Minister Yusril Ihza Mahendra said the UN Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) covers offences including money laundering, fraud and private-sector corruption, rather than bribery alone. Indonesia is considering aligning its anti-corruption laws with the convention, including clarifying how economic harm and state-owned enterprise assets should be treated while retaining state losses as a key element of corruption offences.

Malang Customs Seizes 1.4 Million Illegal Cigarettes After Stopping Three Vehicles

Malang Customs officers seized 1,498,400 cigarettes without excise stamps after stopping three vehicles during a land patrol in Malang Regency. The goods were valued at about Rp2.23 billion, with potential state revenue losses of Rp1.12 billion prevented, as the agency stepped up efforts to curb illegal distribution.

Two French nationals placed on watchlist over explicit content in Bali

Bali immigration officials have added two French nationals to Indonesia’s Subject of Interest database over suspicions that they made sexually explicit videos during a visit to the island. The measure is intended to flag them for further checks if they attempt to re-enter Indonesia; the videos reportedly appeared on adult websites and later went viral on social media.

Palembang Immigration Office Launches Pasporia at Kambang Iwak and Promotes SIX

Palembang’s Class I TPI Immigration Office has offered weekend passport services at Kambang Iwak, giving residents a more flexible way to apply outside normal working hours. The event also introduced its SIX service initiative, built around six values of friendly, responsive and locally grounded public service.

KPK Summons South Sorong Regent in Case Involving Suspended Pemalang Regent

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned South Sorong Regent Petronela Krenak as a witness in an alleged extortion case involving suspended Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro. The investigation centres on two alleged extortion schemes, including claims that Anom sought money from local officials and businesses and that another group offered to arrange his case at the KPK.

Public Works Ministry certifies 41,824 construction workers to strengthen infrastructure workforce

Indonesia’s Public Works Ministry says it has certified 41,824 construction workers nationwide by 22 October 2026 as part of efforts to improve the quality and safety of infrastructure projects. The programme aims to strengthen workers’ skills and professionalism while supporting infrastructure development and creating better employment opportunities.

60 Mysterious Excavations Appear in Samarinda, Revealed as Work of Cable-Theft Syndicate

More than 60 road excavations in Samarinda, initially mistaken for authorised telecommunications work, were allegedly a cover for stealing street-lighting and underground network cables. Police detained 37 workers and have named four suspects as the investigation continues.

Denpasar Police Chief Says Fuel Stocks Are Secure

Denpasar’s police chief says fuel supplies remain secure following the introduction of an odd-even system, after police coordinated with Pertamina and monitored stocks and service stations. Pertamina reports that queues at several Balinese stations have returned to normal and says it is reviewing operations and adjusting supplies to local demand.

OJK Reveals Scam Targeting an Eight-Year-Old, with Parents’ Money Extorted

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has highlighted a financial scam in which an eight-year-old was targeted online and the child’s parents were blackmailed. OJK also warned of increasingly varied scams in Indonesia, including fake online jobs, shopping fraud and romance scams, and said more than Rp852 billion had been blocked through its reporting system.

Communications Ministry and Police step up cooperation to crack down on digital crime

Indonesia’s Communications and Digital Affairs Ministry and the National Police are accelerating implementation of an April 2026 memorandum of understanding to make the digital space safer. Their joint efforts will target online gambling, fraud, data trading and other illegal activity, alongside infrastructure-related crimes that disrupt internet access.

BPOM to Prevent Fish Sprayed with Pesticide from Reaching Consumers

Indonesia’s Food and Drug Monitoring Agency (BPOM) says it will work with relevant ministries to stop salted fish allegedly sprayed with pesticides from being distributed or consumed. BPOM chief Taruna Ikrar warned that pesticide residues may remain on the fish and said the agency has the authority to seize unsafe products.

Indonesian MP Gandung Pardiman Dies Aged 73

Gandung Pardiman, a Golkar Party member of Indonesia’s House of Representatives, has died in Yogyakarta at the age of 73. A former Golkar regional leader and deputy speaker of the Yogyakarta provincial legislature, he was re-elected to the national parliament for the 2024–2029 term.

Central Java and Yogyakarta Customs Grants KITE Facility

The Central Java and Yogyakarta Customs Regional Office has approved an Export-Import Facility for Exemption (KITE Pembebasan) for candle maker PT Soar Gold Candle. The facility exempts qualifying imported inputs from import duties and specified taxes, with the company aiming to expand exports to four European markets and increase local employment and investment by 2030.

Two Years of Prabowo’s Government: Fertiliser Prices Cut by up to 20%

The government says it has cut the maximum retail prices of all subsidised fertilisers by 20%, alongside regulatory and distribution reforms intended to improve farmers’ access and reduce production costs. The article also reports improved national Farmer Exchange Rate figures for August 2026, while noting that gains varied across agricultural subsectors and provinces.

Europe Hit by Protests: The Euro Is Reeling, but Still Expensive for Indonesians

Protests over living costs, austerity and housing across several European countries have coincided with a weaker euro against the US dollar and rising government bond yields. Yet the euro has strengthened against the rupiah this year, leaving it more expensive for Indonesians as the rupiah has depreciated by 3.48% against it.

Expert Calls for Firm, Objective Enforcement over Forest and Land Fires

Environmental and forestry law expert Sadino says sanctions for forest and land fires must be based on clear evidence and a thorough assessment of companies’ responsibilities. The Indonesian Forest Entrepreneurs Association also calls for transparent enforcement and stronger on-the-ground prevention, coordination and land-clearing alternatives to reduce recurring fires while safeguarding environmental and business certainty.

International Marathons Seen as Boosting Interest in Sports Tourism

Golden Rama Tours & Travel recorded a 3.7% year-on-year rise in interest in marathon trips in 2026, with the Sydney Marathon accounting for the largest share of bookings. The company’s broader Sports Holiday sales grew 16.2%, reflecting growing demand for travel built around sporting events as running activity expands in Indonesia.

Donny Oskaria Praises Andre Rosiade’s Efforts: ‘His Thoughts Are Always with West Sumatra’

BP BUMN head Donny Oskaria praised MP Andre Rosiade for advocating development in West Sumatra, including the reconstruction of Padang’s Haji Agus Salim Stadium. The Rp324 billion project is designed to FIFA standards, with a 12,000-seat capacity, and is targeted for completion by 31 January 2028.

United Airlines Flight Carrying 156 Turns Back After Hijacking Threat

A United Airlines flight from Las Vegas to Newark returned to Harry Reid International Airport after a cabin crew member reported a passenger’s message threatening to seize the aircraft. Police arrested a 25-year-old man on suspicion of making threats or providing false information related to terrorism; all passengers were transferred to another flight.

Police Reveal Suspected Motive in Dwi Bagus’s Murder of His Unregistered Wife and Child in Madiun

Police suspect that jealousy and resentment over the victim’s relationship with Dwi Bagus, who also had a legally recognised wife, may have triggered the killings of Dini Hardiyanti and her four-year-old son. The family’s lawyer says messages suggest Dini feared returning to Madiun, and argues that jealousy alone does not explain the brutality of the crime.

Indonesia drafts rules to accelerate exploration of 67 frontier basins

Indonesia is drafting regulations offering more flexible production-sharing terms, signature bonuses and firm commitments to attract investors to 67 unexplored sedimentary basins. The initiative aims to strengthen energy reserves and improve exploration outcomes, as the country’s exploration-to-production success rate stands at about 14.5 per cent.

Gibran Meets Cilacap Fishermen to Discuss Subsidised Diesel

Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka met fishermen in Cilacap to hear concerns about access to subsidised diesel, paperwork for purchase recommendations and the silting of shipping channels. He instructed officials to follow up on distribution and administrative issues, while Central Java’s provincial government pledged to coordinate with central authorities on matters beyond its remit.

Natuna Gas No Longer Flows to Singapore; 100% Now Goes Directly to Indonesia

SKK Migas says all gas produced in the Natuna Block is now flowing directly to Indonesia rather than Singapore, marking a first since independence, according to its chief, Djoko Siswanto. He gave no details on the volume, but said efforts to redirect the gas had faced obstacles for more than a decade and credited Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia’s leadership.

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Calls for NIK to Become a Single Identity, Strengthening Government Data Integration

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya is urging the transformation of the Population Identification Number (NIK) into a single identity number to streamline public services and improve development planning. The proposed Population Administration Bill would also strengthen inter-agency data interoperability while setting clear limits on data use and safeguards for personal information.

The Surprising Meaning Behind the Word ‘Garong’

The Indonesian term ‘garong’, commonly used to mean robber or gang of thieves, is said to have originated as an acronym during the 1945 independence struggle. Writer Pramoedya Ananta Toer and historian Anthony E. Lucas documented armed groups operating amid a power vacuum, whose activities helped associate the word with criminal theft.

At DPR Meeting, JAMAK Proposes Excluding Illicit Enrichment from Asset Forfeiture Bill

The Jaringan Advokat dan Masyarakat Anti Kriminalisasi (JAMAK) has urged lawmakers to leave illicit-enrichment provisions out of the Asset Forfeiture Bill, warning they could undermine due process and create uncertainty over who would be targeted. The group said it supports anti-corruption efforts but considers illicit enrichment a distinct issue that requires further scrutiny.

At the End of the First Session, the JCI Falls 0.32% to 5,355

Indonesia’s benchmark Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) fell 0.32% to 5,355.65 by the close of Tuesday’s first trading session, after briefly rising before turning lower. Investors weighed new Indonesia Stock Exchange oversight measures against geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and movements in oil prices.

Unemployment Nears Lowest Level Since 1994 as Job Creation Multiplies

Indonesia’s open unemployment rate fell to 4.65% in 2026, its lowest level since 1994, despite the labour force nearly doubling to 155.41 million. The government attributes the improvement to economic recovery and stronger job creation, while pledging to expand vocational training and skills development.

Pertamina Ready to Buy Fuel and LPG from Lemigas

Pertamina says it is ready to purchase crude oil, fuel and LPG through Lemigas under Presidential Regulation No. 107 of 2026, which strengthens procurement arrangements for domestic and imported energy supplies. The company says domestic crude and refinery output remain priorities, while imports will complement local supply to safeguard national energy security and ensure reliable distribution.

Lamongan Customs Destroys Illegal Cigarettes

Gresik Customs and Lamongan regency officials destroyed hundreds of thousands of illegal cigarettes seized between the second quarter and October 2026. The goods were valued at about Rp1.23 billion, with potential state revenue losses estimated at Rp600 million, as officials urged the public to help curb illegal sales.

German President’s Visit to China: Diplomatic Manoeuvring at a Critical Moment

Frank-Walter Steinmeier’s visit to China comes as Germany seeks to balance dialogue with Beijing against efforts to reduce economic dependencies and strengthen Indo-Pacific partnerships. The trip is also expected to address China’s international responsibilities, particularly its influence over Russia’s war in Ukraine, while human rights are likely to receive limited attention.

Video: Indonesia Cuts Gas Exports to Singapore; Commission XII Urges Caution

Indonesia has reduced natural gas exports to Singapore by 31 billion British thermal units per day from supplies sourced in Natuna and Sumatra. A senior parliamentary energy committee member says the move could be justified to secure domestic supply for Batam’s gas-fired power plants, but cautions that it requires careful planning, dialogue and replacement buyers, particularly amid wider energy supply-chain disruption and Indonesia’s reliance on imports.

Presidential Decree on Hajj Payment Completion Expected This Week: How Much Will It Cost?

Indonesia expects to complete this week the presidential decree setting out final payments for the 2027 Hajj, after which the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah will inform prospective pilgrims of the amounts due. The average final payment is estimated at about Rp23 million, but varies by province; the overall average Hajj cost is Rp98.47 million per person, with part funded through the management returns on Hajj funds.

Doctor highlights the importance of drinking-water hygiene for children

A paediatrician has urged families to consider the quality and hygiene of drinking water, warning that microbial and heavy-metal contamination can harm children’s health and development. The article also advises consumers to check product traceability and packaging information, including the brand, producer, distribution permit and cap.

Inclusive Education Remains Inadequate as MPR Deputy Speaker Highlights Teacher Shortage

MPR Deputy Speaker Lestari Moerdijat says a shortage of specialist support teachers is undermining inclusive education, with only about 15% of inclusive schools having such staff. She is urging the government to expand recruitment and training, set measurable standards for service quality and learning outcomes, and establish clear legal responsibilities as the National Education System Law is revised.

Two Years of Prabowo-Gibran: Economic Foundations Strengthen as Investment Continues to Grow

After two years in office, President Prabowo Subianto and Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s administration has recorded steady growth, rising investment and progress in industrial downstreaming, alongside social protection programmes. Economists and commentators point to persistent concerns over fiscal pressures, financial-market volatility and uneven economic development, while stressing the need to protect purchasing power and create jobs.

Riau Police Foil Smuggling of 35kg of Crystal Meth by International Network, Arrest Five Suspects

Riau police say they have seized 35kg of crystal meth and arrested five suspects in a series of operations spanning Riau and West Sumatra. Investigators allege the group was part of an international trafficking network using Riau’s coast as an entry route, and are pursuing overseas suppliers while examining suspects’ assets for possible money-laundering offences.

BMKG Monitors Tropical Cyclone ARNAB and Issues New Warning

Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) says Tropical Cyclone ARNAB in the Bay of Bengal is moving away from Indonesia and is not expected to have a significant impact on the country. However, a new cyclonic circulation may form near the Andaman Sea, potentially bringing rain to Aceh and other parts of northern Sumatra. BMKG also warns that atmospheric conditions could trigger locally heavy rain, thunderstorms and strong winds during the week to 2 November.

Pink October: Pertamina Expands Free Mammography Services

Pertamina has expanded access to free breast screening through its mobile mammography service, which has examined 1,166 women in Jakarta since April 2026. The PinkCheck programme, run with the Indonesian Breast Cancer Foundation and Pertamedika IHC, combines screening with education on early detection and aims to reach more women, including people with disabilities.

Gorontalo Travel Company Boss Sentenced to Three Years for Special Hajj Fraud

A Gorontalo court sentenced the director of PT Novavil Mutiara Utama to three years in prison for defrauding prospective special Hajj pilgrims, after 11 people paid a total of Rp1.85 billion. The judge found that the company lacked the required government licence and that victims were promised Hajj services but given work visas and repeatedly charged extra fees.

Bandung City Government Urged to Enforce Rules on Illegal Structures Fairly

A Bandung city councillor has called on the municipal government to enforce regulations against illegal structures and street vendors consistently, transparently and without favouritism. He said enforcement should restore public spaces while respecting residents’ rights, and warned the public against individuals seeking to exploit the clearance process for personal gain.

Pertamina Patra Niaga Encourages Waste Banks in Cilacap to Collect Used Cooking Oil

Pertamina Patra Niaga is supporting three community waste banks in Cilacap to collect used cooking oil, helping reduce pollution while generating income for residents. The initiative also supports the company’s ambition to use used cooking oil as a feedstock for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).

Observer Praises Pertamina’s Commitment to Strengthening Fuel Supplies for the Public

Consumer advocate Tulus Abadi has praised Pertamina’s commitment to strengthening fuel supply and distribution, warning that shortages could increase households’ economic burden. He urged stronger mitigation and coordination with local authorities while cautioning consumers against panic buying.

Local Government–Police Coordination Strengthens Public Security

North Jakarta Mayor Hendra Hidayat said strong communication between local authorities and police is essential to maintaining public order and delivering services. He welcomed the new Thousand Islands police chief and expressed hope that the leadership change would strengthen cooperation across agencies and regions.

Researcher: Asset Forfeiture Law Need Not Adopt Illicit Enrichment and NCB

Public policy researcher Yadi Surya Diputra says the UN Convention against Corruption does not require Indonesia to adopt illicit-enrichment or non-conviction-based (NCB) asset forfeiture provisions. He warns that both measures can create legal and practical complications, and argues they must be assessed against Indonesia’s Constitution and legal system.

President Prabowo seeks review of Indonesia’s definition of corruption

President Prabowo has called for a thorough review of Indonesia’s corruption laws to align them with the UN Convention against Corruption while defining offences in a way that reflects national circumstances. The review is also expected to clarify what constitutes state and national economic losses, including the status of assets held by state-owned enterprises, with the aim of distinguishing corruption from commercial business losses.

KPK Summons Bogor Deputy Regent Jaro Ade in Probe into Procurement Corruption and Tax Collection Fee Deductions

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned Bogor Deputy Regent Ade Ruhandi, known as Jaro Ade, and four other officials as witnesses in investigations into alleged corruption within Bogor Regency Government. The probes concern suspected deductions from tax and regional levy collection fees, as well as procurement at the regency’s Education Office; no suspects have yet been named.

Rumoured Galaxy W: Samsung’s New Foldable Phone to Launch in China on 29 October

Samsung has confirmed that it will unveil a new foldable phone in China on 29 October 2026, but the device is not expected to receive a global release. Reports say the Galaxy W27, also referred to as the W2026, will be a China-exclusive version of the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra, with similar specifications and some gold-finish design details.

Telkom Wins SDG Pioneer Award 2026 at Global Sustainability Event

Telkom Indonesia has received the SDG Pioneer Award at the Reuters Events Global Sustainability Awards 2026 in London for an initiative using green and blue carbon actions to support emissions reduction and net-zero goals. The recognition highlights how the state-owned telecommunications company is integrating environmental and social responsibility into its business strategy.

World Young Scientist Summit 2026 Officially Opens in Wenzhou, Zhejiang

The World Young Scientist Summit 2026 opened in Wenzhou, bringing together nearly 800 scientists, educators and business leaders from more than 60 countries and regions to discuss science and technology in the AI era. The event placed particular emphasis on developing young researchers, supporting international collaboration and accelerating the application and commercialisation of research and technological innovation.

Building 100 GWp of Solar Power Capacity Is Projected to Require Two Million Field Workers

The Indonesian Solar Energy Association estimates that a 100 GWp solar power programme will require 5.5 million workers, including two million in field roles and 3.5 million in manufacturing. Industry and education leaders say Indonesia must rapidly expand skills training and technology transfer, as the domestic solar workforce currently numbers only about 10,000 and foreign investors often bring in their own experts.

Government Discusses Draft Population Administration Bill, Seeks to Strengthen NIK as a Single Identity Number

The government has discussed its inventory of issues for the House-initiated Population Administration Bill, which is intended to integrate population data and improve public services while protecting personal data. A key proposal is to strengthen the National Identity Number (NIK) as a single identity number across government institutions, aligned with the One Data Indonesia law.

KPK Summons Bogor Deputy Regent in Case Involving Alleged Cuts to Tax Collection Fees

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has scheduled questioning of Bogor Deputy Regent Ade Ruhandi and several other officials in an investigation into alleged deductions from local tax and levy collection fees, as well as procurement at the Bogor regency government. The KPK has not named any suspects; it says it is using a general investigation warrant, while approximately Rp1.5 billion was reportedly secured during an operation in the regency.

Deputy Human Rights Minister: One Data on Human Rights Must Underpin Evidence-Based Policy

Deputy Human Rights Minister Mugiyanto says the One Data on Human Rights initiative should provide the evidence base for policies to advance human rights and identify communities underserved by current programmes. The 2026 data publication is intended to improve cross-government coordination, transparency and accountability, while safeguarding personal data and protected information.

BTN supports fashion and creative industries through JFW 2027

Bank BTN is supporting Jakarta Fashion Week 2027 as its official banking partner, with a focus on promoting Indonesia’s fashion and creative sectors, particularly MSMEs. Its BTN Fashion Lab initiative links fashion entrepreneurs with selected designers to improve products and expand market access, while government officials highlight the opportunity to tap into a projected US$1.8 trillion global apparel market in 2026.

Transforming into a Regional Player: SUNHOUSE Wins APEA Corporate Excellence Award for Second Consecutive Year

Vietnamese home-appliance maker SUNHOUSE has won the Asia Corporate Excellence Award at APEA 2026 for a second consecutive year, recognising its transformation into a regional player. The company is expanding its production capacity and international reach, with exports to more than 20 countries and a target of US$120 million in exports by 2030.

Danantara optimises KDKMP’s role in distributing essential goods

The State-Owned Enterprises Agency and Danantara are working with Pertamina Patra Niaga and Pupuk Indonesia to use village and urban-ward cooperatives as distribution hubs for subsidised goods and everyday essentials. The initiative is intended to improve access to LPG, cooking oil and fertiliser while strengthening cooperatives’ role in local economies.

Pertamina Calls for ASEAN Collaboration to Accelerate Regional Power Grid Integration

Pertamina New & Renewable Energy is urging ASEAN countries to work together on infrastructure, regulatory alignment and workforce readiness to advance the ASEAN Power Grid. The initiative could enable cross-border electricity trading, strengthen regional energy cooperation and support the clean-energy transition.

Beyond Fuel and LPG Imports, Indonesia’s BLU Will Also Build an Oil Refinery

Indonesia plans to build domestic crude-oil storage so imported supplies can be shipped directly to the country, strengthening energy security amid geopolitical uncertainty. The government is also pursuing long-term supply contracts and direct state-to-state procurement, while the article says a public service agency (BLU) and partner companies will build the storage facilities.

Tokyo Film Festival Jury Shares Its Approach Before Judging Begins

The jury for the Tokyo International Film Festival’s 2026 competition says emotional impact will be central to its assessment of 15 films, including Garin Nugroho’s “Merah Sebelum Fajar”. The panel brings together filmmakers and film-industry professionals from several countries, who describe their different criteria and welcome the chance to watch and debate the competition programme.

Eight Short, Concise Speeches for the 28 October 2026 Youth Pledge Day Ceremony

The article presents sample speeches for school ceremonies marking Indonesia’s Youth Pledge Day on 28 October 2026, including guidance on when the address is delivered under a Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education circular. The examples urge young people to uphold national unity, show patriotism and empathy, persevere in their studies, and use digital technology responsibly; the supplied source ends partway through the fourth speech.

At 51st ASCOPE Meeting, Pertamina Pushes Regional Collaboration to Strengthen Upstream Oil and Gas

Pertamina is backing closer ASEAN cooperation to optimise upstream oil and gas assets, sustain production and expand exploration, as countries face ageing fields and the challenge of attracting investment. Indonesia’s SKK Migas is targeting 2.6 billion barrels of oil equivalent in exploration resources in 2026, with five of 12 high-impact wells operated by Pertamina entities; the targets remain subject to drilling and technical evaluation.

Singapore’s Prime Minister Seeks to Mend Ties with Indonesia in Unexpected Jakarta Gesture

In 1973, Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew visited the graves of Indonesian marines Usman and Harun, whose execution in Singapore had severely strained relations between the two countries. The gesture, made at President Soeharto’s request, helped ease tensions and pave the way for closer bilateral cooperation.

After Seizing BMW, KPK to Summon Pekalongan Regent Fadia’s Husband Again

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) plans to reschedule questioning of Golkar lawmaker Ashraff Abu over a money-laundering investigation linked to alleged corruption by his wife, suspended Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq. Investigators seized an electric BMW from his Semarang home after he missed an earlier summons; the inquiry is tracing proceeds from alleged procurement corruption and gratuities.

KPK Questions BNPB Secretary-General and Seven Witnesses in Disaster Fund Corruption Case; Rp5.47 Billion Seized

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has questioned BNPB Secretary-General Rus and seven other witnesses as it investigates alleged corruption involving the agency’s disaster-response funds. The case began with a KPK sting operation at BNPB on 13 October 2026, in which 15 people were detained; five were named as suspects the following day.

Medan Mayor: Red and White Village/Urban Ward Cooperatives Programme to Be Optimised

Medan Mayor Rico Tri Putra Waas says the city will step up efforts to optimise the central government’s Red and White Village/Urban Ward Cooperatives programme. Only 18 of the 151 cooperatives in Medan are currently operating, and the city plans to provide institutional support, training and business planning, as well as help build partnerships with Bulog and local small businesses.

Dahnil Explains Decision by Two Sons of Hajj Minister to Resign as Experts

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah says Barbarossa Muhammad Farros and Gibran Muhammad Fawwaz, sons of Minister Mochamad Irfan Yusuf, have resigned from their expert roles, and the minister has accepted their decisions. Deputy Minister Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak said the resignations followed public debate over their appointments, explaining that they had initially helped the newly formed Hajj Organising Agency when it lacked staff and support.

BPJS Kesehatan: Claims that the JKN Programme Is Being Abolished Are False

BPJS Kesehatan has rejected social media claims that Indonesia’s National Health Insurance (JKN) programme will be abolished, stressing that it continues to operate under national legislation. The agency says services remain available as usual and urges participants to verify information through official channels and check their membership status.

Delixi Electric Expands Product Range and Strengthens Global Partnerships at 140th Canton Fair

Delixi Electric showcased an expanded portfolio spanning industrial controls, power distribution, household electrical products and tools at the 140th Canton Fair in Guangzhou. The company said it aims to deepen local partnerships and invest in product development, quality, international certification and services as it expands a network now covering more than 80 countries and territories.

Cutting Methane Emissions Could Help Reduce Upstream Oil and Gas Operating Costs

The International Energy Agency estimates that about 60% of ASEAN’s oil and gas methane emissions in 2025 could have been reduced without additional net costs to operators, with recovered gas offering potential economic value. Leak detection, equipment upgrades and the capture of associated gas could improve efficiency, although returns depend on field conditions, infrastructure and market opportunities.

Expert Panel Selects Recipients of the 2026 DPD RI Awards

The DPD RI Awards 2026 expert panel has selected recipients across four categories after interviewing shortlisted candidates, with the winners to be announced at the awards ceremony in November. The awards recognise contributions in non-formal education, health technology, regional cultural preservation and food self-sufficiency in villages.

Bappenas Calls for Bali to Become a Pilot Province for Cutting Carbon Emissions

National Development Planning Minister and Bappenas chief Rachmat Pambudy has called for Bali to serve as a pilot province for reducing carbon emissions, including through clean energy in tourism and other economic activities. Talks with Bali Governor I Wayan Koster also covered transport links, port development and environmental pressures, amid high waste generation and a substantial annual water deficit in the Sarbagita area.

Singaporeans Set Up Illegal Online Lending Base in Bali, Charging Exorbitant Interest

Indonesian immigration officers arrested 17 Malaysian and Singaporean nationals accused of operating an illegal online lending business from a villa in Bali. The operation reportedly charged borrowers abroad interest of 20–30%, and the suspects face immigration action, including deportation and possible blacklisting.

Singapore to Raise Retirement Age to 65, Allowing Residents to Work Until 70

Singapore will bring forward by a year its planned increases to the retirement age and re-employment age, setting them at 65 and 70 respectively from 1 January 2029. The changes form part of a broader strategy to support older workers through more flexible work arrangements and targeted assistance, including for low-wage employees.

Man’s Motorbike Stolen While He Eats at a Jakarta Food Stall

A man was arrested after allegedly stealing a motorbike parked outside a food stall in West Jakarta while its owner was eating inside. Local residents helped chase and detain the suspect, who has been charged under Article 476 of Indonesia’s Criminal Code.

Medan City Government Makes Property Tax Payments Easier Through District PBB Service Corners

Medan’s Regional Revenue Agency will take its PBB service to all 21 districts from 26 October to 12 December 2026, bringing payment services closer to residents. The programme also offers penalty waivers, with the city hoping to boost tax compliance and increase locally generated revenue.

One Data in the Spirit of the Youth Pledge

The article links the Youth Pledge’s ideal of unity with the need for reliable, standardised data to guide policymaking across Indonesia’s diverse regions. It presents the agreement on the One Data Indonesia Bill as a step towards better-informed, more equitable development, while stressing that national standards should support locally tailored decisions.

IEA: Cutting Methane Could Unlock Additional Gas Supplies in ASEAN

The International Energy Agency says methane mitigation and ending non-emergency flaring could make nearly 200 billion cubic metres of gas available to global markets each year, bolstering energy security. It estimates that around 60% of ASEAN’s oil and gas methane emissions in 2025 could be reduced at no net cost, while warning that infrastructure, investment and stronger measurement remain essential to realise the potential.

KPK Summons Bogor Deputy Regent in Corruption Case Involving Bogor Regency Government

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned Bogor Deputy Regent Ade Ruhandi as a witness in an investigation into alleged corruption within the Bogor Regency Government. The probe follows the recovery of Rp1.5 billion and involves suspected deductions from revenue-collection incentives, as well as a separate investigation into procurement at the regency’s education office; no suspects have yet been named in the general investigation.

Colorectal Cancer in Children Rises Sharply: Symptoms to Watch For

US data show colorectal cancer diagnoses have risen among children and teenagers over the past two decades, although the disease remains rare in these age groups. A small study suggests cancers in younger patients are often diagnosed at an advanced stage; researchers are investigating possible causes, while urging parents to seek medical advice for persistent or unusual symptoms.

Profile: Gandung Pardiman, Yogyakarta MP Who Died Today

Gandung Pardiman, a long-serving Golkar politician and member of Indonesia’s House of Representatives for the Yogyakarta constituency, died on 27 October 2026 at the age of 73. The article outlines his education, organisational roles and political career, including his return to the House for the 2024–2029 term.

OJK Cracks Down on Thousands of Illegal Online Lenders, Blocks 702,000 Scam Accounts and Returns Rp207 Billion

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) and the Illegal Financial Activities Eradication Task Force have shut down 1,489 illegal financial entities, including 1,199 online lenders, and blocked 702,000 accounts suspected of involvement in scams. They also returned Rp207 billion to victims, while warning consumers about unlicensed lending offers and digital fraud.

Trans Jogja Stop Surrounded by Street Vendors, Passengers Alight to Find Dish Racks

Street-vendor stalls and equipment are obstructing access to a Trans Jogja bus stop in Sleman, leaving pedestrians and passengers with limited room to move. Residents and commuters have called for the area to be reorganised, and Sleman’s Civil Service Police Unit says it will inspect the site before deciding on further action.

Kampung Rambutan Terminal Builds Lift Ahead of Christmas and New Year Holiday Period

Kampung Rambutan Bus Terminal in East Jakarta is building a lift to improve access to its second-floor inter-provincial bus ticketing area before the 2026 Christmas and 2027 New Year holiday period. Construction is 60 per cent complete, with the one-tonne lift expected to be ready by December 2026, making it easier for passengers with children or luggage to move around the terminal.

Village Ministry: Local Governments Should Tap Revenue Potential to Accelerate Development in Underdeveloped Regions

The Ministry of Villages and Development of Disadvantaged Regions has urged local governments to develop innovative revenue sources, including making better use of underutilised government and village assets. The ministry is also assessing fiscal capacity and socio-economic indicators in disadvantaged regions, with the aim of ensuring revenue growth supports improvements in human development, poverty reduction and village development.

Communications Minister Urges Police to Crack Down on Online Gambling, Data Trading and Cyberbullying

Communications and Digital Affairs Minister Meutya Hafid has urged National Police Chief Suyudi Ario Seto to take firm action against online crimes, including data trading, scams, online gambling and cyberbullying. She also called for police intervention against the theft of telecommunications cables, which disrupts internet access, and stressed that stronger cooperation between her ministry and the police is essential.

From Today, Tax Consultant Permits Must Be Obtained Through Satu-ProfKeu

Indonesia’s Finance Ministry has made Satu-ProfKeu the sole platform for tax consultant professional licensing from 27 October 2026. Applications submitted by 26 October that meet the requirements will continue to be processed, while incomplete or later applications must be resubmitted through the new system.

Trump Hits Back at Obama’s Jibe That the White House Looks Like a Cheesecake Factory

Donald Trump has responded angrily to Barack Obama’s mockery of the White House’s lavish renovations, including its gold décor and a planned ballroom. The exchange comes amid campaigning ahead of the US midterm elections and adds to the pair’s long-running political feud.

Police Seize Car from Home of Dwi Bagus, Suspect in Wife and Child Murders

Police have taken a silver Suzuki Karimun believed to be linked to the killing of Dini Hardiyanti and her four-year-old child. The vehicle was removed from the garage at Dwi Bagus’s parents’ home in Madiun, although police have yet to confirm that it is being treated as evidence.

China Hopes Serbia Election Result Will Preserve Ties Between the Two Countries

China says it is ready to work with Serbia’s incoming government to maintain traditional friendship and strengthen political trust, while emphasising its opposition to interference in other countries’ domestic affairs. Early projections indicate a major win for a student-backed opposition coalition over Aleksandar Vučić’s ruling alliance, although official results have yet to be confirmed.

East Jakarta Chamber of Commerce to Foster Business Synergies at 7th Mukota on 27 November

The East Jakarta Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) will hold its seventh city conference on 27 November 2026 to elect its chair for the 2026–2031 term. Organisers say the meeting is intended to strengthen collaboration among local businesses and with the municipal administration, supporting business development and economic growth in East Jakarta.

Bogor Woman and Her Child Murdered by Her Unregistered Husband; Her Body Burnt and Ground Up

Police say Dwi Bagus, the unregistered husband of Dini Hardiyanti and stepfather of her four-year-old son, killed both victims after an argument in Madiun. Investigators allege he burnt and ground Dini’s body and planned to dispose of her son’s body at sea; the family had reported them missing after losing contact in September.

17 Malaysian and Singaporean Nationals Arrested for Running Online Loan Business in Bali

Indonesian immigration officers have detained 17 foreign nationals in Bali for allegedly operating an online personal-lending business in breach of their residence permits. The group, comprising 15 Malaysians and two Singaporeans, reportedly advertised on Facebook and collected applicants’ personal and employment details; authorities said they had so far identified no Indonesian customers.

The Major Companies Behind Indonesia’s Gas Exports to Singapore

Indonesia supplied about 3.36 million tonnes of natural gas to Singapore in 2025, making it the country’s largest supplier by combined import weight. Medco and Pertamina Hulu Energi have interests in key supply blocks, while Medco’s first-half 2026 results included higher revenue and profit; Singapore’s later announced supply cut has not been allocated by supplier.

Two Years of Prabowo: Free Health Checks Taken Up by 105 Million People

Indonesia’s free health-check programme, launched in February 2025, has reached around 105 million people as of 4 October 2026, with the government aiming to serve 130 million by year-end. Officials say screening and follow-up care are helping participants manage high blood pressure and diabetes, and could reduce strokes and cardiovascular disease over the longer term while improving life expectancy.

Jogja MP Gandung Pardiman Dies Aged 73

Gandung Pardiman, a member of Indonesia’s House of Representatives and former chair of the Yogyakarta chapter of Golkar, has died aged 73. Golkar officials said he had been ill for some time; he died at Panti Rapih Hospital in Yogyakarta on Tuesday morning, and his body was taken to the family home in Gunungkidul.

Police and Communications Ministry join forces to secure digital space

Indonesia’s National Police and the Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs have agreed to strengthen cooperation against cybercrime, including online scams, gambling, data trading and digital infrastructure theft. They also plan to improve responses to misinformation and hoaxes, combining preventive measures with law enforcement.

Communications Minister Praises Police Chief for Busting Cross-Border Online Gambling Syndicate

Communications and Digital Affairs Minister Meutya Hafid praised the National Police for dismantling an online gambling operation with links across borders, and said the ministry and police would strengthen cooperation against cybercrime. Police say the Boxkia.com syndicate operated in Jakarta and Kuala Lumpur, generated about Rp2 billion a month and involved four suspects; investigators are also tracing transactions for possible money laundering.

China Congratulates Lula da Silva on Victory in Brazil’s Election

China has congratulated Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva after Brazil’s electoral court declared him the winner of a closely fought presidential run-off. Lula’s non-consecutive fourth term is due to begin in January 2027, with his government expected to face parliamentary opposition and pressure to balance public finances with expanded social programmes.

Video: Singapore Races to Develop Nuclear Power Plants — Could Indonesia Cut Gas Exports?

Singapore is accelerating plans to develop nuclear power as part of efforts to strengthen energy security amid Middle East tensions and risks to global supply chains. The move could reduce its reliance on energy imports from Indonesia and other suppliers, while also prompting Indonesia to consider nuclear power as part of its own energy diversification strategy.

Bahlil to Investigate Palm Oil Plantations Suspected of Illegal Mining

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia says the ministry will monitor and inspect palm oil plantations suspected of conducting mining activities without the required permits. The investigation follows reports that several foreign companies may be operating outside the scope of their government-issued licences.

KPK Begins Questioning Witnesses in BNPB Case, Including Secretary-General and Seven Others

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has begun questioning eight witnesses in an alleged corruption case involving the National Disaster Management Agency’s (BNPB) ready-to-use emergency funds. The investigation follows an October raid in which 15 people were arrested, five suspects named and assets worth Rp5.47 billion seized; the KPK has also notified military authorities about the alleged involvement of active-duty personnel.

Macklemore Wins Global Celebrity Support for ‘Free Palestine’ Concert After Being Censored

Macklemore launched his ‘Free Palestine’ tour in Dublin, with Hozier and Kneecap performing and actor Mark Ruffalo among those expressing support. He said the slogan represents freedom and shared humanity, and highlighted the suffering of Palestinian families in Gaza.

Finance Minister Opens Door to Regional Budget Deficits Above the Limit, but Imposes Strict Conditions

Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara has set the maximum regional budget (APBD) deficit for 2027 at 2.5% of projected regional revenue, while allowing local governments to exceed that ceiling with his approval. Permission is subject to strict debt, repayment-capacity and consultation requirements, including national aggregate limits on local borrowing.

Kia Carens EV Pre-orders Open

Kia Sales Indonesia has opened pre-orders for the Carens EV, offering four configurations with six- or seven-seat layouts and Standard or Long Range batteries. Official prices will be announced at launch, with estimates ranging from Rp382 million to Rp432 million.

The Official Who Lost Secret State Documents on a Train

Former UK government official Richard Jackson recalls accidentally leaving two top-secret documents on a train, triggering a national scandal, disciplinary action and prosecution under the Official Secrets Act. He describes the severe personal toll, including suicidal thoughts, and how support from others helped him rebuild his life and develop work supporting people facing emotional pressure.

KPK Questions BNPB Secretary-General as Witness in Disaster Fund Corruption Case

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) questioned BNPB Secretary-General Rustian and seven others in an investigation into alleged corruption involving the agency’s ready-to-use disaster funds. Rustian was previously caught up in a KPK sting operation but was released after questioning; five other people have been named suspects in two alleged corruption schemes involving procurement and bribes.

KPK Questions BNPB Secretary-General in Disaster Emergency Fund Corruption Probe

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has questioned BNPB Secretary-General Rustian in an investigation into alleged corruption involving disaster emergency funds. Five people have been named as suspects in the case, which concerns procurement worth Rp148 billion over three years and alleged conflicts of interest and bribery.

Gold Prices for Galeri24, Antam and UBS at Pegadaian on Tuesday

Pegadaian’s listed prices per gram on Tuesday were Rp2,478,000 for Galeri24 gold, Rp2,589,000 for Antam and Rp2,501,000 for UBS, though prices may change at any time. The full price list shows available weights ranging from 0.5 grams to 1 kilogram, depending on the brand.

Pertamina Conducts Regular Operational Reviews to Ensure Bali’s Fuel Stocks Remain Secure

Pertamina Patra Niaga says it is reviewing operations and coordinating with fuel stations and storage terminals to keep Bali’s fuel supply secure following the end of an odd-even rule for subsidised fuel purchases. Queues at several stations have returned to normal, while the company is adjusting supply plans to reflect demand and distribution capacity.

Indonesia Says No Airports Closed Despite Wildfire Disruptions

Indonesia’s civil aviation chief says all airports remain open despite forest and land fires affecting 78 airports, disrupting 3,030 flights across 154 routes and prompting about 1,700 cancellations. Flight schedules have been adjusted to weather conditions, while the Transportation Ministry has authorised 42 helicopters for wildfire response and issued circulars to mitigate risks to transport infrastructure and aviation operations.

Jembrana Regent Kembang Hands Five Agriculture Ministry Tractors to Farmers’ Groups

Five farmers’ groups in Jembrana, Bali, have received two-wheel tractors from the Ministry of Agriculture, bringing the total distributed in the area to 15. Officials said the equipment should be used collectively to address labour shortages and speed up land preparation, supporting productivity and food security.

Claims That BPJS Health Will Be Abolished Denied: Here Is the Explanation

BPJS Health has rejected social media claims that the national health insurance programme will be abolished and transferred to clinics run by the Merah Putih Village Cooperatives. The agency says the JKN programme has a statutory basis and continues to operate, while participants can still access healthcare and check their membership through official channels.

BGN Chief Proposes Adding MBG Nutrition Education to School Curriculum

National Nutrition Agency chief Sudaryono has proposed incorporating the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme into the school curriculum so it can teach pupils about nutrition as well as provide food. Lessons would cover the roles and sources of key nutrients, including carbohydrates, protein, fibre, vitamins and minerals; he says there is currently no dedicated forum for children to learn about nutrition.

National Police Chief and Communications Minister to Work Together to Protect Digital Space from Hoaxes to Online Gambling

National Police Chief Suyudi Ario Seto and Communications and Digital Affairs Minister Meutya Hafid have agreed to strengthen cooperation against cybercrime, including online gambling, data trading, scams and hoaxes. The partnership will combine prevention with law enforcement and also address attacks on telecommunications infrastructure that disrupt internet access.

Forest and Land Fires and the Failure of Environmental Governance

Forest and land fires burned more than 200,000 hectares in Indonesia between January and July 2026, up by around 70 per cent on the same period a year earlier. The article argues that dry weather and El Niño cannot excuse recurring fires, which also reflect weaknesses in prevention, coordination, accountability and enforcement; it calls for measurable, risk-based action and transparent assessment of results.

Economist: AI Brings Economic Benefits Only to Its Creators

Apollo chief economist Torsten Slok says economic gains from AI are so far concentrated among the seven largest US technology companies, with no measurable improvement among the other 493 S&P 500 firms. Rising AI subscription and computing costs are also leading businesses to view the technology as an operating expense rather than a growth investment, raising questions about when heavy spending will pay off.

Food Prices Today, 27 October 2026: Bird’s Eye Chillies Hit Rp111,000

National retail data from Bank Indonesia’s PIHPS shows red bird’s eye chillies at Rp111,600 per kilogram on 27 October, the highest price among the chilli varieties recorded. The data also lists prices for rice, meat, eggs, sugar, cooking oil and other staple foods, offering a snapshot of varied food costs across the country.

Before Her Alleged Murder by Her Common-Law Husband, Dini Was Said to Have Feared Returning to Madiun

Dini Hardiyanti had reportedly expressed fear about returning to Madiun in Instagram messages to a friend, according to her family’s lawyer, although it remains unclear whether the messages were connected to her alleged murder. Police investigating the disappearance of Dini and her four-year-old son arrested her common-law husband, Dwi Bagus, in Jombang.

TelkomGroup Develops AI Infrastructure and a Platform for MSMEs

TelkomGroup has launched four sovereign digital technology capabilities, spanning AI-ready data centres, access to AI models, an Internet of Things platform and a marketplace for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). The initiative aims to strengthen Indonesia’s digital infrastructure and expand technology adoption and market access, with the AI data centre targeting capacity of up to one gigawatt.

South-East Sulawesi Deputy Governor: Encourage Children to Use Local Languages at Home

South-East Sulawesi Deputy Governor Hugua urged families to speak local languages with children at home, noting that many urban children understand their mother tongue but cannot speak it. He also called for government support through local-content curricula and culturally relevant reading materials to help preserve regional languages as a source of identity.

Police Chief Meets Communications Minister to Discuss Online Crime and Digital Security

National Police Chief Suyudi Ario Seto and Communications and Digital Affairs Minister Meutya Hafid discussed joint efforts to make Indonesia’s digital space safer, including action against online fraud, gambling and romance scams. They also highlighted the need for stronger regulation and cooperation to curb hoaxes, which officials say can fuel social divisions.

Task Force Shuts Down 11 Illegal Pawnshops in August–September

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) and the Illegal Financial Activities Eradication Task Force (Satgas PASTI) shut down 11 unlicensed pawnshop businesses between August and September 2026. The task force also addressed 330 other illegal financial entities and scam operations, while its Indonesia Anti-Scam Centre reported blocking 702,833 accounts and recovering Rp207.16 billion for victims since beginning operations.

It Is Time for Local Games to Become King in Indonesia’s Market

Indonesia’s game market generated Rp30.99 trillion in 2024, yet local developers received only 2.5 per cent of the revenue despite a player base of nearly 155 million. The article examines how IGDX aims to connect domestic developers with industry partners and publishers, while highlighting a mismatch between local developers’ focus on PC games and the mobile-led preferences of Indonesia’s market.

Bakrie Group Executive Buys 5.9 Million BRMS Shares Worth Rp2.4 Billion

Bumi Resources Minerals president director Agoes Projosasmito bought 5.9 million shares in the company in two transactions totalling about Rp2.495 billion. The purchases more than doubled his direct shareholding, with the stated purpose of investment.

Jakarta Women’s Organisation Inaugurates ‘Ibu SAPA’ to Strengthen Protection for Women

Dharma Wanita Persatuan (DWP) in Jakarta has inaugurated Ibu SAPA, a programme designed to support women and children facing violence by listening, protecting confidentiality and connecting them with appropriate services. Trained volunteers will provide information and initial assessments, referring cases requiring further intervention to professional services through the Jakarta PPAPP Agency.

Israeli Military Forcibly Displaces Thousands of Palestinians from the West Bank

An Israeli military operation in Hebron has reportedly forced 3,171 Palestinians from their homes, with hundreds more residents unable to leave their houses. Local officials describe raids, arrests and extensive infrastructure damage, while Israel says the operation followed a shooting that killed two Israeli soldiers.

Expert Explains Benefits of Drinking Milk Before Bed for Older People Who Are Beginning to Struggle with Eating

Nutrition expert Danielle VenHuizen says milk before bed can offer older adults an easy-to-consume source of protein and other nutrients, potentially helping to maintain muscle and bone health. Each cup contains around eight grams of protein, while its amino acids may support muscle repair during sleep.

Intelligence Exposes Secret Russian-Chinese Military Cooperation

A C4ADS investigation says Russian defence suppliers are moving some manufacturing and technology development to China, as Western sanctions and the war in Ukraine constrain access to industrial capacity. The report highlights Chinese facilities, machinery and intellectual property supporting Russian firms, while cautioning that there is no evidence the entire Russian arms industry—or all military-grade semiconductor production—has relocated to China.

Deputy Minister: Presidential Decree on Hajj Payment Deadline Expected This Week

Indonesia’s Deputy Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak, says the presidential decree governing final payments for the 2027 Hajj is expected to be completed this week, allowing information to be shared with prospective pilgrims. The average amount to be paid is around Rp23 million, but the figure varies by province, while the total average Hajj cost has been set at Rp98.47 million per person.

Donny Oskaria and Andre Rosiade Oversee Reconstruction of Agus Salim Stadium in Padang

BP BUMN head Donny Oskaria has urged contractors to prioritise construction quality, seismic resilience and precise execution as work begins to rebuild Padang’s Haji Agus Salim Stadium. The Rp324 billion project, led by Hutama Karya and Adhi Karya, is designed for 12,000 spectators and is targeted for completion by 31 January 2028, although the project briefing identified a funding shortfall of about Rp200 billion against projected construction cash-flow needs through the end of 2027.

Transport Ministry Announces Restrictions on These Types of Goods Lorries During the Christmas and New Year Holiday Period

The Transport Ministry plans to restrict lorries with three or more axles for 14 days around the 2026–27 Christmas and New Year holiday period, while exempting vehicles carrying essential goods and energy supplies. It is also preparing traffic-management measures and alternative ports to ease congestion on roads and ferry routes.

Police Chief Says Police Will Cover All Medical Treatment for Ojol Driver Run Over by BYD in Blok M

National Police Chief Suyudi Ario Seto said police would cover the online motorcycle taxi driver’s medical treatment until he fully recovers after he was run over in a crash in South Jakarta. The driver of the BYD, who allegedly struck four cars before hitting the victim, has been named a suspect.

KALLArona Raises Awareness of Nature at JFW 2027

Indonesian fashion label KALLArona presented its “Rona Nusantara” collection at Jakarta Fashion Week 2027, using natural materials and designs inspired by the country’s landscapes. The collection also drew attention to environmental concerns, with models wearing leaf-decorated respirator masks that evoked the experiences of communities affected by conditions in Kalimantan, Papua and Sulawesi.

Jakarta Council Backs Provincial Government’s Efforts to Resolve Waste Problem

Jakarta’s DPRD has backed the provincial government’s plans to address the city’s waste problem, including cooperation with Bekasi over the Bantargebang integrated waste-processing site. It says success will also depend on reducing waste at source, improving sorting, processing and collection, and close oversight and coordination across local and central government, with more significant results expected by 2028–2029.

China Says Kim Jong Un’s Visit to Dandong Demonstrates Friendship

China’s Foreign Ministry said Kim Jong Un’s visit to the border city of Dandong underscored the close friendship between China and North Korea. The visit came amid renewed attention to bilateral ties and the opening of a long-delayed bridge linking Dandong with Sinuiju, which could create opportunities to deepen economic cooperation.

Police Arrest Motorcycle Thieves in Serang and Seize Two Motorbikes from Rented House

Police in Serang arrested two suspected motorcycle thieves less than 12 hours after a theft was reported, recovering the victim’s motorbike at a petrol station. The suspects allegedly confessed to six thefts across Serang and Tangerang, and officers later seized two more suspected stolen Honda Beat motorbikes from their rented house in Pandeglang.

Education Minister Candid About Unused PIP Funds as Audit Finds Rp535 Billion

Education Minister Abdul Mu’ti says delays and mismatches in student data cut-off dates are contributing to unclaimed funds under the Indonesia Smart Programme (PIP). The Audit Board (BPK) found Rp535.46 billion was not optimally used because 627,314 recipients failed to activate their assistance, alongside overpayments and further potential irregularities.

Paragon Kahf Provides Aid to Support Government Response to the Effects of Forest and Land Fires

Paragon Kahf has provided medical supplies to Indonesia’s Ministry of Health to support healthcare services for people affected by forest and land fires in Palangka Raya, Central Kalimantan. The donation forms part of a wider series of assistance and partnerships across West and Central Kalimantan since August 2026, covering emergency response, health services and forest monitoring.

Welder Beaten Up by Three Students in Kupang; Workshop Vandalised

A 49-year-old welder in Kupang was allegedly assaulted by three university students, who also damaged his workshop after an argument over one of them entering his home without knocking. Police have detained the three suspects, seized a machete and are investigating their respective roles and whether others were involved.

BNI Chief Explains Surge in Lending

Bank Negara Indonesia (BNI) reported 22.2% annual loan growth to Rp992.5 trillion in the third quarter of 2026, supported by expansion across business segments and stronger low-cost deposits. The bank also posted higher net profit and improved asset quality, while maintaining conservative underwriting, elevated provisions and solid liquidity and capital ratios.

House Continues Asset Forfeiture Bill Discussions with Students and Lawyers

The House of Representatives’ Commission III is continuing consultations on the Asset Forfeiture Bill, including meetings with student and legal advocacy groups during the parliamentary recess. Its chair says roughly 60 public hearings have been held so far, with about 23 more planned, to ensure the bill reflects Indonesia’s economic and political conditions rather than simply following foreign trends.

BNI’s Credit Quality Improves as Funding Costs and NPLs Fall

Bank Negara Indonesia (BNI) reported a fall in its gross NPL ratio to 1.9% and lower funding costs in the first nine months of 2026, alongside 22.2% credit growth. Strong CASA growth and digital transaction activity supported funding efficiency, while net profit rose 6.6% despite a decline in net interest margin.

Expert Calls for Geothermal Development to Be Further Optimised

UGM energy economist Fahmy Radhi says Indonesia should make renewable energy, particularly geothermal, a clearer and more sustained priority, noting that only about 11.6% of the country’s estimated 24 GW geothermal potential is currently installed. The government’s 2025–2034 electricity plan targets an additional 5.2 GW of geothermal capacity, requiring long-term investment in exploration and drilling.

Aceh Police Seize 32 Tonnes of Diesel in Subsidised Fuel Abuse Cases

Aceh Police say they seized 32 tonnes of subsidised diesel and arrested 22 people during enforcement operations across the province from 19 to 25 October 2026. The crackdown is intended to curb diversion that can disrupt fuel supplies and cause queues at petrol stations; police say the action has already helped shorten queues at some stations.

PNM Supports Women in Pontianak to Develop Their Businesses, from Learning Spaces to Local Potential

PT Permodalan Nasional Madani (PNM) held a business-capacity programme in Pontianak, combining enterprise coaching with practical support for women entrepreneurs, including childcare and health checks. The event also promoted environmental awareness and showcased local products, aiming to help customers strengthen their businesses and reach wider markets.

Russia says tensions in the Strait of Hormuz are shaking global energy markets

Russian Energy Minister Sergey Tsivilev said instability around the Strait of Hormuz is affecting global fuel and energy markets, putting supplies equivalent to 20 per cent of the world’s LNG at risk. He called on Gas Exporting Countries Forum members to oppose trade barriers, protect critical gas infrastructure and deepen cooperation on technology, equipment and research.

15 Major Reforms to Indonesia’s Stock Exchange: Now or Never!

Prompted by MSCI’s concerns over transparency and liquidity, Indonesia’s financial authorities and stock exchange introduced a sweeping package of market reforms in 2026. The measures range from higher free-float requirements and more detailed ownership disclosures to trading-rule changes, with the aim of improving market integrity and liquidity while raising questions about implementation and market impact.

National Police Chief to Cover Medical Costs for Ride-Hailing Driver Run Over by BYD in South Jakarta

National Police Chief Suyudi Ario Seto has pledged to cover the full cost of treatment for Hasan Syukur, a 56-year-old ride-hailing driver injured when a BYD ran over him in a five-vehicle crash in South Jakarta. Hasan has undergone surgery and remains in hospital; the BYD driver has been named a suspect.

Bahlil Steps Up Efforts, Travelling to India and China to Secure Fuel Supplies

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia plans to visit India and China to seek assurances on future fuel supplies as the government responds to uncertainty in global energy markets. He says domestic fuel stocks remain within safe limits and subsidised Pertalite prices will not rise, while officials pursue long-term supply contracts, including for LPG.

Election Day: 7.3 Million Israelis to Decide Netanyahu’s Fate

Around 7.3 million eligible voters are taking part in a closely contested Israeli parliamentary election that could end Benjamin Netanyahu’s long tenure or leave the country facing another political deadlock. Final polls put opposition parties ahead of Netanyahu’s right-wing and religious coalition, but neither side appears close to the 61 seats needed to form a government; Netanyahu also faces criticism over the 7 October 2023 Hamas attack and his ongoing corruption trial and ICC arrest warrant.

Aceh Man Who Raped His Child Sentenced to 200 Months in Prison and Stripped of Parental Rights

The Kutacane Sharia Court has removed a father’s parental authority after he was convicted of sexually assaulting his 14-year-old daughter. The ruling gives custody to the girl’s mother and is intended to protect the child’s safety and future.

Rain Clouds Set to Increase Over Kalimantan and Sumatra

Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) forecasts a high potential for rain-cloud formation in Central Kalimantan over the next five days and in South Sumatra from Tuesday. The agency has been carrying out weather-modification operations to help tackle forest and land fires, while the rainy season is expected to arrive later than usual in many parts of Indonesia and peak between December and February.

Antam Gold Prices Edge Up Today: Here Are the Details

Antam gold bullion rose by Rp10,000 to Rp2,550,000 per gram on Tuesday, while its buyback price increased to Rp2,345,000 per gram. The article also outlines the applicable income tax deductions for buyback transactions and purchases.

Yusril Calls for Clearer Definition of State Finances, Warns of Risk That SOE Business Losses Could Become Corruption Cases

Coordinating Minister Yusril Ihza Mahendra says the definition of state finances should be clarified to ensure legal certainty, particularly over whether losses at state-owned enterprises (SOEs) can constitute corruption. He argues that technical banking problems and ordinary business risks should not automatically trigger corruption charges, and says the issue is being discussed alongside alignment of Indonesia’s anti-corruption laws with the UN Convention against Corruption.

Two Sons of Hajj Minister Resign from Expert Adviser Roles at Ministry

Barbarossa Muhammad Farros and Gibran Muhammad Fawwaz, sons of Hajj and Umrah Minister Mochamad Irfan Yusuf, have resigned from their expert adviser positions after their appointments drew public criticism. Deputy Minister Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak said they had initially helped establish the Hajj Organising Agency, including on a voluntary basis, and that the minister will decide who replaces them.

Understanding Bowel Adhesions and Their Treatment

Bowel adhesions, often caused by scar tissue after abdominal surgery, inflammation or infection, can lead to recurring pain, bloating and impaired bowel movement in some patients. Bethsaida Hospital specialists say complex cases may require a multidisciplinary assessment of the organs involved, with surgery considered according to the patient’s condition, expected benefits and risks.

Minister: All Services We Provide Are Citizen-Centred

Administrative and Bureaucratic Reform Minister Rini Widyantini says public services should be designed around people’s needs, citing Jember’s public service mall, which brings together 279 services from 17 agencies. The local government is also expanding mini service centres and digital and outreach channels to make services more accessible, including to residents who face barriers to digital access.

BNI (BBNI) Loans Rise 22.2% in Third Quarter, Led by This Segment

BNI’s consolidated lending reached Rp992.5 trillion in the first nine months of 2026, up 22.2% year on year, driven chiefly by 30.3% growth in wholesale loans. The bank said disciplined underwriting helped lift its loan market share to 10.6%, while asset quality improved and net profit rose 6.6% to Rp16.1 trillion.

JCI Expected to Trade Sideways as Investors Await Fed Policy Direction

Indonesia’s benchmark Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) is expected to trade within a range of 5,280–5,450 as investors await the US Federal Reserve’s policy decision and a week of corporate earnings. Domestic market measures include extending share buybacks without shareholder approval and strengthening oversight of suspected price manipulation, while a weaker rupiah could prompt Bank Indonesia to raise its policy rate in November.

IDX to Enhance Transparency and Oversight of Indonesia’s Capital Market

The Indonesia Stock Exchange and the Financial Services Authority are advancing reforms to improve trading surveillance, share-ownership transparency and governance, while retaining Indonesia’s Secondary Emerging Market classification with FTSE Russell. The measures include a more targeted approach to suspected market manipulation, independent members on the High Shareholding Concentration committee, continued enforcement, and an extension of share buybacks without shareholder approval until June 2027.

Pickup Loses Control on Ngurah Rai Bypass, Injuring Two

A Suzuki pickup lost control on the Ngurah Rai Bypass in Badung late on Monday, striking a traffic sign and a frangipani tree. Two occupants were injured and taken for medical treatment; police estimate the damage at Rp10 million.

Ngurah Rai Immigration Arrests 17 Foreign Nationals for Running Online Lending Business in North Kuta

Immigration officers in Bali have detained 17 Malaysian and Singaporean nationals accused of operating an online personal-lending business from Dalung, despite holding residence permits that did not authorise the activity. Authorities say the group marketed its services on Facebook and have not identified any Indonesian customers; the case is being investigated under Indonesia’s Immigration Law.

From Learning Spaces to Local Potential, PNM Supports Pontianak Women in Developing Their Businesses

PT Permodalan Nasional Madani (PNM) has brought business training, coaching and family-oriented support to women entrepreneurs in Pontianak through its “Sustainable Culture, Thriving Businesses” programme. The event also promoted environmental awareness and showcased local products, with officials highlighting the role of Mekaar clients’ businesses in strengthening household economies.

Antam Gold Price Rises by Rp10,000 to Rp2.55 Million per Gram

Antam’s gold-bar price rose by Rp10,000 on Tuesday to Rp2.55 million per gram, while its buyback price also increased to Rp2.345 million. Buyers and sellers should account for the applicable income tax and check Logam Mulia’s official website, as prices may change at any time.

Debate on Jakarta’s 2027 Budget Delayed Pending Clarity on Central Government Revenue Sharing

Jakarta’s city council has suspended discussions on the 2027 regional budget until the central government confirms the province’s revenue-sharing allocation and approves a proposed regional bond issue. The uncertainty could reduce the draft budget and force cuts to planned programmes, while officials are also considering borrowing through state-owned infrastructure financier PT SMI as an alternative.

PIHPS records red bird’s eye chilli at Rp111,600/kg and chicken eggs at Rp29,350/kg

Bank Indonesia’s National Strategic Food Price Information Centre (PIHPS) reported that red bird’s eye chilli was priced at Rp111,600 per kilogram and chicken eggs at Rp29,350 per kilogram. Its latest national retail data also showed prices for rice, meat, other chillies, sugar and cooking oil, highlighting the range of staple food costs.

Ngoerah Hospital Cremates 22 Unclaimed Bodies, with Bills Totalling Rp4 Billion

Prof. Dr IGNG Ngoerah Central General Hospital in Denpasar has arranged the cremation of 22 unclaimed bodies, some of which had been held since 2023, after coordinating their status with police. The hospital says care and mortuary storage charges total about Rp4 billion, while Bali’s social affairs agency plans twice-yearly ceremonies to prevent future accumulation.

Missing Eight-Year-Old Boy Found Dead in Lake in Bekasi

An eight-year-old boy who had been reported missing was found dead in a lake in North Cikarang, Bekasi. Police said the initial examination found no signs of violence, and witnesses reported that the boy may have been swimming there with friends.

Israel’s Most Consequential Election: The Country’s Future and Netanyahu’s Rule at Stake

Israel is holding its first election since the Hamas attacks of 7 October 2023, with Benjamin Netanyahu seeking another mandate amid war, domestic political upheaval and a corruption trial. Polls suggest his coalition could lose its majority, but divisions among opposition parties and unequal voting rights across territory under Israeli control complicate the outcome and raise questions about the election’s democratic reach.

Rupiah fluctuates amid mixed reports from the Middle East

The rupiah opened weaker at Rp18,140 to the US dollar as conflicting reports of possible US military action against Iran and diplomatic efforts in the Middle East unsettled the currency. An analyst said foreign fund outflows from Indonesia’s stock market were also weighing on the rupiah, which is forecast to trade between Rp18,100 and Rp18,200 per dollar.

Backing Dasco on MSCI, Idrus Marham Says Indonesia’s Economy Must Not Depend on Global Indices

Idrus Marham backed Deputy Speaker of the House Sufmi Dasco Ahmad’s confidence in the strength of Indonesia’s capital market amid MSCI’s planned reclassification of the country’s equity market. He said Indonesia should strengthen economic sovereignty and improve market governance and transparency while remaining open to international assessments, rather than allowing global indices to dictate national economic priorities.

Rumah Zakat Strengthens Forest and Land Fire Response with Humanitarian Aid and Volunteer Protection

Rumah Zakat says it has distributed a range of aid to communities affected by forest and land fires, including masks, food, clean water and medical supplies, and has provided protective equipment for volunteers. The organisation is calling for stronger cross-sector cooperation and more effective government action, including firm measures against those found responsible for causing fires.

OJK Blocks 11 Illegal Pawnshops: Here Is the List

Indonesia’s Financial Services Authority (OJK) has ordered 11 unlicensed pawnshop operators to cease operations as part of a wider crackdown on illegal financial activity and scams. The regulator also highlighted the licensing deadline of 12 January 2026 and reported that anti-scam efforts had blocked 702,833 accounts linked to fraud, with Rp825.2 billion in funds frozen.

Government Undaunted by MSCI Scrutiny as IDX Says Investor Confidence Remains a Challenge

Deputy Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Drajad Hari Wibowo said Indonesia would continue capital-market reforms while engaging with MSCI on an equal and mutually respectful basis. The Indonesia Stock Exchange acknowledged that rebuilding investor confidence remains a challenge, even as it points to improving liquidity, market operations and investor numbers as signs of resilience.

In Three Months, Police and BNN Bust International Syndicates and Seize 10.5 Tonnes of Drugs

A joint operation by Indonesia’s National Narcotics Agency (BNN), National Police, Customs and regional police forces seized a total of 10.5 tonnes of drugs and detained 59 people over three months. The cases involved shipments and trafficking networks across several provinces, including a clandestine methamphetamine laboratory in Aceh.

UN: 700,000 Children in Gaza Cannot Access Adequate Education

Around 700,000 school-age children in Gaza have been deprived of adequate education after widespread damage to schools, according to Russia’s permanent representative to the UN. The report highlights the continuing humanitarian crisis in the territory, where destruction and disruption to medical care and supplies persist despite a ceasefire that began in October 2025.

PKS Seeks Views on Gibran’s Diploma Controversy as PDI-P Opens Door to Dialogue

PKS plans to consult other parliamentary factions on how to follow up a Constitutional Court ruling concerning Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s education credentials, while PDI-P says it is open to dialogue. The court found no valid document proving Gibran had completed secondary education, but rejected a petition to disqualify him because the applicants lacked legal standing, leaving the issue to other authorised institutions, including the House of Representatives.

Indonesia’s Unemployment Rate Falls to 4.65%, Its Lowest in More Than 30 Years?

Indonesia’s open unemployment rate fell to 4.65% in May 2026, while the labour force reached 155.41 million and about 7.22 million people remained without work. The government says the decline reflects stronger economic activity, industry and investment, but stresses that job creation and improving workforce skills remain priorities.

PLN Group Wins Two 2026 Subroto Energy Awards

PLN Indonesia Power and PLN Nusantara Power have received two awards from the Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry, recognising power-sector safety performance and digital transformation. The awards highlight the state electricity group’s efforts to improve plant reliability and efficiency while supporting a safe, sustainable and dependable electricity supply.

Biodiesel B50 Becomes Key to Indonesia’s Energy Independence

Indonesia is promoting a 50 per cent biodiesel blend to cut diesel imports, strengthen energy security and generate economic and emissions benefits. The plan could deliver substantial foreign-exchange savings and support jobs, but experts warn that greater palm-oil use must be balanced against food needs, supply and price risks, environmental pressures and the costs of implementation.

Inalum: Downstreaming Has Proven to Boost Added Value and Create Jobs

Inalum says processing bauxite into alumina and aluminium can raise the material’s value by as much as 70 times, while generating tax revenue, jobs and economic activity around industrial sites. The company projects that industrial development in Mempawah, West Kalimantan, could create about 130,000 jobs, and is advocating further expansion into higher-value aluminium products.

Volatile Stock Market: BSI (BRIS) Prepares Rp500 Billion Share Buyback

Bank Syariah Indonesia plans to spend up to Rp500 billion from internal cash on a share buyback, scheduled to run from 27 October 2026 to 26 January 2027. The bank says the purchase will not exceed 20% of its paid-up capital and is not expected to materially affect operations, while BRIS shares have fallen 48.65% so far this year.

US Dollar Lags Behind Ringgit and Yuan-Won, While Rupiah Remains Under Pressure

Six of 10 Asian currencies gained against the US dollar in morning trading, led by the Taiwan dollar, while the rupiah recorded the region’s steepest decline. The dollar index nevertheless edged higher, supported by improved risk appetite and euro weakness, as markets awaited interest-rate decisions from the Federal Reserve, European Central Bank and Bank of Japan.

KMP Batumandi Not Yet Raised as Buoys and Oil Booms Installed in Merak Waters

Navigation buoys and oil booms have been installed around the site where the KMP Batumandi sank after catching fire in the waters off Merak. Technical and risk assessments for the salvage operation are under way, with authorities coordinating on the method and appointment of a salvage contractor to ensure maritime safety and environmental protection.

Central Java Government to Review Open-Water Events at Provincial Games

Central Java Deputy Governor Taj Yasin Maimoen says organisers will review safety arrangements for events held in open water after Jepara diver Syabilla Rizkia Putri Raharja died during a 3,000-metre open-water finswimming race. Syabilla had won two gold medals earlier in the competition; the provincial government and organisers say they will provide assistance to her family and ensure applicable employment insurance benefits are paid.

The Blessing of Bahasa Indonesia for the Indonesian Nation

Chosen as the language of unity at the 1928 Youth Congress, Bahasa Indonesia helped forge a national identity across an archipelago marked by hundreds of regional languages and diverse ethnic groups. Beyond fostering unity, it serves as social capital by widening opportunities for education, work and democratic participation.

Iran Seeks to Expand Energy Cooperation with Russia

Iran has proposed expanding cooperation with Russia in the energy sector, including investment in Iranian oilfields and the exchange of energy resources. Officials say only technical issues remain before a gas-supply agreement is ready for signing, with Russian gas potentially reaching Iran via Azerbaijan.

Preparing for a Major War, US Plans Military Bases with Micro Nuclear Reactors

The Pentagon’s FORTRESS America initiative aims to make major US mainland military installations self-sufficient for at least 90 days, protecting operations from attacks or disruption to civilian infrastructure. The plan combines independent energy systems, including potential micro nuclear reactors, with strategic stockpiles, cyber resilience and alternative defence supply chains; its full cost, timetable and current level of readiness have not been disclosed.

BRI: Staged Buyback Reflects Confidence in Business Fundamentals

Bank Rakyat Indonesia says its phased share buyback reflects confidence in its business fundamentals and long-term growth prospects, while remaining subject to financial conditions and regulatory requirements. The state-owned lender has set aside up to Rp1 trillion for a second buyback phase and reported strong second-quarter 2026 profit, asset growth, capital and liquidity positions.

Three Indicators Rise in Tandem as Industry Minister Expects Manufacturing to Expand Again

Industry Minister M. Sarmuji says manufacturing has returned to expansion, with three key indices strengthening: Bank Indonesia’s Prompt Manufacturing Index, S&P Global’s manufacturing PMI and the Industry Confidence Index. The government is considering further incentives and a possible reallocation of natural gas to industry, while aiming to raise capacity utilisation from nearly 70% to as much as 85%.

Young People as the Fulcrum of the Ummah’s Revival

The article argues that young people are essential to the revival of Muslim communities, citing their energy and historical leadership in the early spread of Islam. It calls for sustained education and character-building to prepare future generations to lead religious and social movements and address contemporary challenges.

Central Jakarta Police Give Aid to 48 Orphaned Children

Central Jakarta Metro Police provided assistance to 48 orphaned children during a religious gathering at the Al Ikhlas Mosque in Kemayoran. The police chief said the initiative reflects the force’s social responsibility beyond maintaining public security and aims to strengthen community ties and solidarity.

OJK Uncovers 1,199 Illegal Online Lenders by September 2026: Their Tactics Revealed

Indonesia’s Financial Services Authority (OJK) says it identified and shut down 1,199 illegal online lending entities in the first nine months of 2026, alongside illegal investment and pawnbroking operations. Its anti-scam centre has blocked 702,833 accounts linked to fraud and frozen Rp825.2 billion, while warning the public about opaque loan charges, identity impersonation and digital scams.

Cum-Date and Dividend Payment Schedule This Week: Is Your Company on the List?

Eight companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange are scheduled to pay cash dividends between 26 and 30 October 2026, while five others reach their cum-date this week. The schedule sets out when investors must hold shares to qualify for dividends and when eligible shareholders can expect payment.

IIF Provides Rp601.4 Billion in Financing for National Infrastructure

PT Indonesia Infrastructure Finance (IIF) has provided about Rp601.4 billion to support a hyperscale data centre project in Bekasi and the development of Medan Heart Center in North Sumatra. The financing is intended to strengthen Indonesia’s digital infrastructure and expand access to specialist cardiovascular care beyond major metropolitan areas.

BPJS Kesehatan Says Rp 10 Trillion Government Aid Is Earmarked for Healthcare Claims

BPJS Kesehatan says it has spent Rp 5.1 trillion of a Rp 10 trillion government allocation to pay verified claims from healthcare facilities, with the remaining Rp 4.9 trillion expected to be paid by the end of October 2026. A second Rp 10 trillion tranche is planned for November as the government seeks to support claims payments under the national health insurance programme, which covers more than 284.8 million people.

TelkomGroup Launches Sovereign Digital Technology Development

TelkomGroup has launched four capabilities—an AI-ready data centre, AI ModelHub, a national IoT platform and PaDiSera—as part of efforts to build an integrated and technologically self-reliant digital ecosystem. The initiative was unveiled at the Danantara Technology Innovation Investment Forum 2026, with the company emphasising national control of strategic data, broader digital adoption and expanded market access for Indonesian small businesses.

Dwi Bagus Allegedly Killed Secret Wife and Young Child, Then Ground Their Remains

Police say Dwi Bagus is suspected of killing Dini Hardiyanti and her four-year-old son, then burning and grinding their remains in an alleged attempt to destroy evidence. Investigators believe the killings were driven by resentment and jealousy; the case came to light after the family reported the pair missing in September.

Three Main Reasons MUI Opposes Andrea Bocelli Concert in Indonesia

Indonesia’s Ulema Council (MUI) has outlined three grounds for opposing a planned Andrea Bocelli concert, including the tenor’s reported participation in a 2010 fundraiser linked to the Israel Defense Forces, the council’s fatwa, and concern that the event could offend Indonesians who support Palestine. MUI official Sudarnoto Abdul Hakim said the council does not know how much money the event raised for the IDF, but regards Bocelli’s involvement as indirect support for Israel under its criteria.

Russia declares ceasefire in Kherson for humanitarian operation

Russia says it has halted fire in the Kherson sector from 04:00 Moscow time on 27 October 2026 to prepare a humanitarian operation near Alyoshki and facilitate civilian safety and aid deliveries. Moscow alleges Ukrainian shelling and drone-laid mines have obstructed access to the settlement, while Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov says the arrangement could serve as a model for other sectors.

Registration Opens for National Internship Batch 3: Link and Requirements

Registration for the Ministry of Manpower’s MagangHub National Internship Batch 3 runs from 27 October to 4 November 2026, with 70,000 placements available at private companies. Eligible recent graduates can apply online after creating a SIAPkerja account, with the internship programme due to begin on 16 November.

Madiun Murders: Man Accused of Grinding Bodies of His Informal Wife and Her Child

Police in East Java have arrested Dwi Bagus Martono on suspicion of killing his informal wife, Dini Hardiyanti, and her four-year-old child in Madiun. Investigators allege he strangled them, burned and dismembered their bodies, and put the remains through a meat grinder; jealousy linked to his legally married wife is the suspected motive.

Joint Task Force Seizes Hundreds of Bottles of Alcohol in East Jakarta’s Kampung Melayu

A joint team seized 131 bottles of alcoholic drinks from a shop in Kampung Melayu, East Jakarta, after residents reported that it was operating around the clock. The shop has been ordered to close for seven days and could face further enforcement, while the seizure comes amid broader efforts to maintain public order and regulate alcohol sales.

Antam Gold Prices Rise to Rp2.55 Million per Gram on Tuesday

Antam’s one-gram gold price rose by Rp10,000 to Rp2.55 million on Tuesday, while its buyback price climbed to Rp2.345 million per gram. The report also lists prices across gold bar sizes and outlines the tax treatment applicable to purchases and buybacks.

Beyond Promises: Making Business and Human Rights Work for Indonesia 2045

Indonesia’s forthcoming 2026–2030 business and human rights roadmap could turn existing commitments into stronger corporate due diligence, oversight and access to remedy. The article argues that effective implementation—covering large companies and supporting smaller firms—would protect workers and communities while strengthening investor confidence and Indonesia’s competitiveness as it pursues OECD accession.

Trump Offers Rp 18 Billion for Reports of Election Fraud Ahead of US Midterms

Donald Trump has offered a US$1 million reward to anyone reporting election fraud in past polls or the 3 November 2026 midterm elections, conditional on the accused being arrested and convicted. The announcement comes as disputes over election integrity intensify, with Democrats and voting-rights activists accusing Republicans of intimidation and Trump repeating unsubstantiated claims of widespread non-citizen voting.

Lawamena Clinic Educates Students at Two Ambon High Schools to Prevent TB Spread

UPTD Lawamena Main Clinic delivered tuberculosis (TB) prevention education to students at two high schools in Ambon in October, covering symptoms, transmission, early testing and completing treatment. The initiative also sought to counter stigma and encourage students to share accurate health information with their families and communities.

Rp4,000 Ad Hoc Parking Fee Sparks Controversy; Klungkung Transport Agency Responds

Klungkung Regency has introduced an ad hoc parking levy of Rp4,000 for motorcycles under a newly enacted regional tax and levy regulation, prompting public questions over its legal basis and payment arrangements. The transport agency says it has explained the policy on site and plans to work with customary villages to manage parking at religious ceremonies and festivals.

BNI Savings Grow Strongly as Low-Cost Funds Rise 19.6% in Q3 2026

Bank Negara Indonesia (BNI) reported 19.6% year-on-year growth in current account and savings account (CASA) funds to Rp733.7 trillion in the third quarter of 2026. Growth was supported by gains in current and savings accounts, alongside rising use of its digital banking platforms and a branch-network transformation initiative.

Manpower Ministry explains how to register as a MagangHub Batch 3 partner

The Manpower Ministry has outlined the registration and verification process for organisations seeking to host placements under the 2026 MagangHub national apprenticeship programme, with partner registration open until 29 October. The scheme aims to give university graduates practical work experience while helping employers develop talent aligned with workplace needs.

Could Changes to the Definition of State Losses Prompt a Revision of the Anti-Corruption Law? Justice Minister Supratman Responds

Justice Minister Supratman Andi Agtas said state-owned companies’ decisions should be assessed according to whether they were made prudently and in good faith before losses are treated as corruption. He said proposals to redefine state losses remain under discussion, with no decision or plan yet to revise the Anti-Corruption Law.

JCI Falls Sharply at the Open, Then Rebounds to 5,409 in Tuesday Trading

Indonesia’s Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) opened lower on Tuesday before reversing course, rising 0.68% to 5,409.62 by 9.15am Jakarta time. Investors were weighing the rebound on Wall Street against uncertainty over the Middle East conflict and its potential effects on oil prices and energy supplies.

Saudi-led Coalition Intercepts Three Houthi Ballistic Missiles, Triggering Emergency Alerts

The Saudi-led coalition said its air defences intercepted and destroyed three ballistic missiles fired by Yemen’s Houthi group towards Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province. The announcement followed emergency alerts in the province and al-Kharj, and came alongside reports that four Houthi drones targeting southern Saudi Arabia had also been destroyed; no casualties or intended missile targets were reported.

Singapore to host new ASEAN office to exchange jobs data and track labour market shifts

Singapore will host the ASEAN Labour Statistics Office, coordinating regional efforts to share jobs and skills data and help member states anticipate changes driven by AI, platform work and the green transition. A new knowledge portal and projects analysing online job listings and AI’s impact on tasks aim to inform evidence-based policymaking, while an ASEAN report finds green jobs remain far below their potential and urges workforce planning to address skills and structural challenges.

Netanyahu Wants to Attack Iran Before Election, Splitting IDF and Mossad

Israeli media report that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is pressing for a new operation against Iran ahead of Tuesday’s election, despite opposition from IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir. The dispute has raised concerns within the military that the Iran issue is being used for electoral advantage and that a limited operation could escalate into a wider conflict.

Tax Penalty Relief Is Not a Tax Amnesty; Principal Tax Debt Must Still Be Paid

Indonesia’s Directorate General of Taxes says its programme to reduce or waive administrative penalties does not cancel tax liabilities or principal tax debt, which taxpayers must still pay. Relief of up to 100% is available for qualifying actions during specified periods, with the discount declining to 50% and then 25%.

BRI Optimistic That Its Fundamentals Will Support Long-term Growth

Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) says its solid business fundamentals and capital position underpin its long-term growth outlook, as it continues share buybacks. The bank reported Rp31.2 trillion in net profit for the second quarter of 2026 and announced a second buyback programme worth up to Rp1 trillion, citing market volatility while stressing prudent capital management.

Good News: Antam Gold Price Finally Rises by Rp10,000 Today

Antam’s one-gram gold price rose by Rp10,000 to Rp2,550,000 on Tuesday, ending a sharp decline that began last week. Its buyback price also increased by Rp10,000 to Rp2,345,000 per gram; purchases and buybacks are subject to applicable income tax deductions.

Labour regulations must be grounded in constitutional mandate, says minister

Manpower Minister Yassierli says national labour policy must uphold human dignity and the Constitution amid technological disruption, climate change and global uncertainty. The government has introduced or ratified measures covering wages, domestic workers and fishing-sector work, while the minister called for stronger collaboration among government, employers and unions.

Consumers Urged to Check Drinking Water Quality Carefully

Consumers are being urged to assess drinking water beyond its appearance, checking its source, processing, packaging, testing and traceability. The Health Ministry’s 2023 household survey found that only 20.49% of Indonesians had access to drinking water considered safe for consumption, while experts warn that contamination can pose particular risks to children’s health and development.

Rupiah Weakens to Rp18,140 per US Dollar as Oil Prices and Fiscal Risks Draw Attention

The rupiah weakened to Rp18,140 per US dollar at Tuesday’s opening, following a 55-point decline the previous day. Currency analyst Ibrahim Assuabi said rising global oil prices could worsen fiscal pressures by increasing energy-import costs and subsidy spending, potentially outweighing any additional oil and gas revenue.

Iran asserts full control over the Strait of Hormuz and surrounding waters

Iranian military chief Ali Abdollahi says the armed forces control the Strait of Hormuz, the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman, and that vessels will not be allowed through the strait while it remains closed unless they comply with Iranian orders. The strategic waterway is a major route for oil and liquefied natural gas exports, meaning disruption could affect regional production and exports and push up global oil prices.

Warning: Heavy Rain Expected in Parts of Yogyakarta Today

BMKG has warned that heavy to very heavy rain could affect the Special Region of Yogyakarta, with Sleman and Gunungkidul among the areas at risk today. The local meteorological station says rain is possible from midday into the evening and that rain risks may persist over the coming week, with varying intensity.

BNI (BBNI) Posts Rp16.1 Trillion Profit in the Third Quarter of 2026

Bank Negara Indonesia reported net profit of Rp16.1 trillion through the third quarter of 2026, up 6.6% year on year, while pre-provision operating profit reached a record Rp27.5 trillion. Credit and low-cost deposits grew strongly, and gross non-performing loans improved to 1.9%, as the bank highlighted disciplined risk management and sustainable growth.

Government Reviews Corruption Law Amendments; Could Definition of State Financial Losses Change? Yusril Responds

Coordinating Minister Yusril Ihza Mahendra says Indonesia needs to align its anti-corruption legislation with the UN Convention against Corruption (UNCAC), which the country has ratified. A review of the Corruption Eradication Law would also need to be synchronised with changes to the Criminal Code and Criminal Procedure Code, as well as ongoing asset-forfeiture legislation; no specific change to the definition of state financial losses was confirmed.

Man Who Fatally Slashed Football Supporter in Bogor Faces 15 Years in Prison

Bogor Police have arrested a suspect over the fatal slashing of 16-year-old football supporter ARK, who was attacked while travelling home after a match. The suspect faces charges under child-protection and criminal-code provisions carrying a maximum sentence of 15 years, while investigators continue to examine the case.

Microsoft Offers Voluntary Redundancy to 60,000 Employees — Here Is the Severance

Microsoft has launched its first voluntary redundancy programme in the United States, with around 60,000 employees worldwide eligible as it redirects capital spending towards AI data centres. The company has not disclosed the precise severance package, which will vary by tenure, seniority and local law; reported US terms include a minimum of eight weeks’ pay.

BRI Insurance Promotes Insurance Literacy among MSME Operators in Pematangsiantar

BRI Insurance and Permodalan Nasional Madani held a financial literacy and inclusion programme in Pematangsiantar to explain insurance protection to women running businesses. The initiative aims to help participants understand how insurance can mitigate risks and support business continuity.

Indonesia reviews Anti-Corruption Law to align with UNCAC

Indonesia is reviewing its Anti-Corruption Law to incorporate provisions of the UN Convention against Corruption, including foreign bribery, which is not explicitly covered under current legislation. The proposed changes are also being assessed for consistency with national criminal laws and could support Indonesia’s bid for full OECD membership by 2028, while retaining the requirement to prove state financial losses.

After Three Days of Rain, Palembang Is Shrouded in Haze Again

Smoke haze from forest and land fires returned to Palembang on Tuesday morning, despite three consecutive days of rain, prompting residents to report breathing discomfort and put masks back on their school-age children. The recent rainfall had brought relief from months of drought, water shortages and haze, while weather officials said atmospheric conditions and cloud-seeding operations had helped produce the earlier rain.

Transport Ministry: No Airports Closed Because of Forest and Land Fires

Indonesia’s Transport Ministry says no airports have closed because of forest and land fires, although poor weather and visibility have led to flight schedule changes and cancellations. Between 14 August and 25 October 2026, 3,030 flights were affected, including about 1,700 cancellations; conditions in Papua have recently improved, reducing the number of affected airports from 12 to seven.

Pertamina Assures Safe Fuel Distribution to North Sulawesi’s Islands

Pertamina Patra Niaga says fuel distribution to the Sangihe Islands and surrounding areas is safe, with supplies being replenished and deliveries prioritised to local petrol stations. Two tanker arrivals have brought 650,000 litres of Pertalite to Tahuna and a further 11 million litres of Pertalite and two million litres of Pertamax to Bitung.

HSC Shares Removed, IDX Chief Says IHSG Market Capitalisation Will Not Be Cut

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) says excluding High Shareholding Concentration (HSC) shares from the Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) will not reduce the stock market’s overall market capitalisation, as all shares will still be counted for that measure. From 2 November 2026, HSC shares will be removed from the IHSG calculation, with their index weights redistributed among the remaining constituents; the exchange expects the change to improve the index’s credibility and representativeness.

BNPB Uses 14.3 Tonnes of Seeding Material to Tackle Forest and Land Fires in Several Regions

Indonesia’s National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) used 14.3 tonnes of seeding material in weather-modification operations aimed at increasing rainfall and helping contain forest and land fires. Despite some rain and improved visibility in targeted areas, fires remained under management across 4,382 hectares in Kalimantan and Sumatra, with more than 57,000 ground personnel and 61 aircraft deployed.

Iran Says It Has No Intention of Developing Nuclear Weapons at Meeting with Makkah Pact States

President Masoud Pezeshkian said Iran does not seek nuclear weapons and intends to pursue its nuclear activities within the framework of the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). He reaffirmed Iran’s right to peaceful nuclear activity during a meeting with representatives of the Makkah Pact, the mutual defence agreement signed by Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Türkiye.

Rupiah Opens Weaker as US Dollar Strengthens to Rp18,120

The rupiah opened 0.06% lower at Rp18,120 per US dollar, while the dollar index also strengthened. Bank Indonesia expects local-currency transaction (LCT) volumes to reach US$55 billion in 2026, which could reduce domestic reliance on dollars; lower oil prices may also ease import-related pressure, although energy prices remain high and regional supply risks persist.

Strawberry and Banana Juice: What Are Its Health Benefits?

Strawberry and banana juice can contribute vitamin C, potassium, fibre and antioxidants to a balanced diet, but it is not a cure or substitute for medical treatment. The article outlines the fruits’ nutritional benefits, cautions against added sugar and excessive portions, and provides guidance for preparing the drink while retaining its fibre.

Life in Palangka Raya Amid the Haze from Forest and Land Fires

Residents of Palangka Raya in Central Kalimantan have spent nearly two months living with smoke from forest and land fires that has blanketed homes and disrupted daily routines, including children’s schooling. The smoke also poses health risks, particularly to children, older people and those with existing conditions, highlighting residents’ need for cleaner air and a safe environment.

Pertamina Urges ASEAN Oil and Gas Giants to Strengthen Upstream Sector

Pertamina is calling for greater regional cooperation to optimise upstream oil and gas assets, sustain production and unlock exploration potential amid shared challenges across ASEAN. Indonesia is targeting 2.6 billion barrels of oil equivalent in exploration resources in 2026, while officials also stressed that skilled workers are essential to long-term energy security.

JCI Opens 0.28% Lower

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) fell 0.28% at Tuesday’s open, with investors weighing fresh Indonesian stock-market oversight measures against geopolitical risks and economic data from China. Hopes for de-escalation in the Middle East eased oil prices on Monday, although supply and shipping risks remain elevated.

Klungkung Teacher Creates ‘Digital Story Village’, Getting Pupils Hooked on Reading

Anida Fajriani, a primary-school teacher in Klungkung, Bali, has developed a web-based interactive learning resource that combines reading with vocabulary, local culture and everyday problem-solving. Research found that pupils using ‘Digital Story Village’ significantly improved their reading comprehension, and the approach has spread to schools in Bali and beyond.

Andrea Bocelli Concert Ticket Advertisements Still Circulating

Digital advertisements for Andrea Bocelli’s planned concert at Borobudur remain online, although the ticket-purchase option is inaccessible and the event’s contact centre could not be reached. The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) has rejected the concert, citing Bocelli’s reported 2010 fundraising involvement for Friends of the Israel Defense Forces, and is urging the government to clarify its decision amid public concern over Palestine.

Let Children Take on ‘Risky Play’ for Better Physical and Mental Health

An international study led by the universities of Exeter and British Columbia found that children with more opportunities for outdoor and adventurous play tend to have better health and developmental outcomes. Researchers say independent mobility and age-appropriate challenges can support physical activity and learning, while stressing that play should take place within boundaries.

Pertamina Patra Niaga strengthens ecosystem for turning used cooking oil into biojet fuel

Pertamina Patra Niaga says it is commercially producing sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) from used cooking oil at its Cilacap Green Refinery, with about 11 million litres of co-processed SAF produced this October. The initiative also involves local waste banks and collection points, allowing residents to exchange used oil for cash or e-wallet credit while supplying a feedstock for lower-impact aviation fuel.

AI Is Becoming Part of the Lifeblood of Indonesian Education: Are We Ready?

University student Nadya Rizkiana Syifa says AI has become a readily available study aid, helping her find ideas and refine her writing. But she limits its role to brainstorming and language support, warning that some peers use it to avoid reporting and writing assignments themselves.

Fire on MT Haryono Causes Congestion from Cawang Towards Pancoran

Firefighters extinguished a fire involving a pile of timber inside an unoccupied building on Jalan MT Haryono, South Jakarta, deploying five fire engines and 20 personnel. Traffic was slow-moving during the response, although police said office activity was also contributing to congestion from Cawang towards Pancoran.

Transport Ministry Says No Airports Have Closed Due to Forest and Land Fires

Indonesia’s Transport Ministry says all airports remain open despite flight adjustments caused by weather and reduced visibility from forest and land fires. Between 14 August and 25 October 2026, 3,030 flights were affected, including about 1,700 cancellations, while authorities have issued permits for 42 helicopters to support firefighting efforts.

Pramono Offers to Help Build Transjabodetabek Bus Stops in Bekasi

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has offered for the Jakarta provincial government to help build Transjabodetabek bus stops in Bekasi, amid growing passenger numbers on the route. Bekasi Mayor Tri Adhianto said construction is already under way and could be supported through cooperation between the two local governments, although the assistance has not yet been included in an existing agreement.

Fukushima nuclear wastewater discharge enters its 25th round

Japan has begun its 25th release of contaminated water from the damaged Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant, with about 7,800 tonnes containing roughly 1.4 trillion becquerels of radioactive tritium due to be discharged by 13 November. The latest release is the seventh in fiscal 2026; since the operation began in 2023, TEPCO says about 188,400 tonnes have been released amid international concern and opposition.

Danantara reports 18.4% growth in SOE net profit

Danantara Indonesia said state-owned enterprises generated IDR 214.9 trillion in net profit from January to August 2026, an 18.4% year-on-year increase, with particularly strong gains at Semen Indonesia and Pupuk Indonesia. The agency says its transformation is improving profitability and intends to channel dividends towards strategic investment, production and job creation, although dividends are not included in State Budget revenue projections for 2026 or 2027.

Gadi Eisenkot, Netanyahu’s Main Challenger in Israel’s Election

Gadi Eisenkot’s Yashar party is seeking support in Sderot and other peripheral communities by foregrounding his Moroccan Jewish heritage and criticising what it calls Likud’s marginalisation of Mizrahi politicians. The campaign taps into long-standing Ashkenazi–Mizrahi divisions and the social and economic inequalities that have shaped Israeli politics, while demographic changes in Sderot may also affect support for Netanyahu’s right-wing bloc.

Trump’s Approval Rating Stays ‘More or Less the Same’ as Democrats Poised to Take Control of US Congress

Donald Trump’s approval rating has edged up to 32%, but a national poll shows registered voters favouring Democrats over Republicans by 47% to 36% ahead of the 3 November mid-term elections. Democrats appear well placed to win the House, though the Senate remains a tougher contest, with voter concerns about inflation and greater Democratic enthusiasm shaping the race.

US Blockade Squeezes Iran’s Economy as Tehran Prepares Larger Food Vouchers

Iran is preparing to increase electronic food-voucher support for low-income and vulnerable households as inflation and a sharply weakening rial erode purchasing power. The move comes amid worsening economic forecasts, with the IMF projecting a 7.6 per cent contraction and 78.6 per cent average inflation in 2026, while Tehran also considers tightening eligibility for the aid programme.

BNPB Deploys 14 Tonnes of Seeding Material to Tackle Forest and Land Fires

Indonesia’s National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) used 14.3 tonnes of seeding material in weather-modification operations aimed at increasing rainfall and supporting firefighting in priority areas. Fires remain under management across nearly 4,400 hectares in Kalimantan and Sumatra, while the government has deployed more than 57,000 ground personnel and 61 aircraft.

Asian Markets Rise, with Kospi Surging 3.8% on Technology Shares

Asian equities mostly advanced on Tuesday, led by South Korea’s Kospi, as technology shares rallied in the wake of gains on Wall Street. Investors are also watching major corporate earnings, the Federal Reserve’s policy meeting and key US economic data for clues about the outlook for interest rates.

380,000 Tonnes of Bulog Rice Have Deteriorated; Auction to Prioritise MSMEs

Bulog will auction 380,000 tonnes of rice whose quality has declined after more than six months in storage, prioritising Indonesian micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) nationwide. The rice is intended for processing into flour, with the policy aimed at preventing losses to the state, preserving the stock’s economic value and helping ease flour prices.

Popular stories: Nataru airfares cut and campaign to grow chillies

ANTARA’s roundup highlights a planned 11–13 per cent reduction in domestic economy-class airfares for the 2026 Christmas and 2027 New Year holiday period, supported by government stimulus. Other stories cover a push to grow chillies to stabilise supply and prices, low-interest financing for fire-affected small businesses in West Kalimantan, and a land fire reportedly caused by a discarded cigarette; it also includes a football award story.

OJK Says FinFest 2026 Generated More Than 1,000 Account Openings

Jakarta Financial Festival 2026 attracted more than 7,500 visitors and led to over 1,000 account openings and more than Rp5 billion in funds raised over two days. OJK said collaboration between government, regulators and financial-services firms is key to expanding financial literacy and inclusion, particularly as high access to services must be matched by understanding of product risks and terms.

JCI Closes 1.2% Lower: Five Stocks to Watch Today

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) fell 1.22% to 5,373.09, with foreign investors recording substantial net sales and all 11 sectors ending lower. The article also highlights corporate developments at MBSS, BREN and BUMI, alongside five stock-trading recommendations and domestic factors weighing on market sentiment.

Jordan retaliates for church attack in Al-Karak, targets southern Syria

Jordan’s air force struck suspected terrorist hideouts in southern Syria in retaliation for a deadly attack on a church in Al-Karak. The attack killed eight people and injured 27, and Jordan’s Interior Ministry described it as the work of an extremist group.

Domestic Economy Airfares to Fall by 11–13% over Christmas and New Year Period

The Transport Ministry says government stimulus will reduce domestic economy-class airfares by 11–13% from 22 December 2026 to 10 January 2027. Airlines will be monitored and may face sanctions for failing to comply, as the government seeks to keep travel affordable and limit inflation during the holiday travel surge.

Family Warmth Amid the Rain in Tokyo

The cast and creative team behind “Desember Jani” brought the film’s theme of family warmth to the Tokyo International Film Festival’s red carpet despite heavy rain. The film has been selected for the festival’s Asian Future programme, which showcases emerging Asian filmmakers and includes a competition for the Asian Future Best Film Award.

2026 Youth Pledge Day Ceremony Script in Line with Youth and Sports Ministry Schedule

The article sets out the official running order and master-of-ceremonies script for Indonesia’s 98th Youth Pledge Day ceremony on 28 October 2026, citing a circular from the Ministry of Youth and Sports. It also provides sample commands for the ceremony leader, covering the flag-raising, speeches, prayers and dismissal.

Bahlil Reconsiders Electricity Exports to Neighbouring Countries, Citing Domestic Demand

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia says plans to export electricity remain under review and are unlikely to proceed soon, as Indonesia’s domestic needs take priority. He cited plans to expand data-centre capacity to 20 gigawatts and said exports would be considered only after local demand is met, in line with Article 33 of the Constitution.

Central Jakarta Police Hold Joint Prayer for Jakarta and Give Aid to 100 Orphans

Central Jakarta Metro Police held a religious gathering and distributed assistance to 100 orphans, while praying for the capital’s safety, peace and unity. Police officials said the event reflected their commitment to social care and closer ties with residents, alongside preparations for public demonstrations that emphasise a humane approach and public safety.

Home Affairs Minister Warns of Food Price Pressures Ahead of Christmas and New Year, Says Welfare Aid Must Be Delivered

Home Affairs Minister Muhammad Tito Karnavian has urged central and local governments to sustain welfare assistance and targeted market operations to contain food prices ahead of Christmas 2026 and New Year 2027. He also called for consideration of electricity, fuel and air-transport subsidies, and urged airlines to avoid excessive fares as holiday travel demand rises.

Stagnant Economy: UMS Economist Calls for Stronger Industry to Boost Indonesia’s Growth

Indonesia’s economy grew by 5.29 per cent year on year in the second quarter of 2026, but structural obstacles continue to constrain faster growth, says UMS economist Anton Agus Setyawan. He argues that faster investment approvals, more ready-to-use industrial estates, stronger manufacturing and downstream processing are needed to create productive jobs and make growth less reliant on household consumption.

IDX Removes 81 HSC Shares from Composite Index: Is Market Capitalisation Safe?

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) says removing 81 shares classified as having high shareholding concentration (HSC) from the Jakarta Composite Index will not reduce the market’s overall capitalisation. The shares account for about 18% of the index’s weighting but roughly 30% of total exchange market capitalisation, which continues to include every listed share; the change takes effect on 2 November 2026.

Golkar Holds Short Film Competition with AI Category and Rp200 Million in Prizes

Golkar is holding a short film competition for its 62nd anniversary, with original-film and AI-based categories and total prizes of Rp200 million. The contest’s “From Zero to Hero” theme is inspired by party chairman Bahlil Lahadalia’s life story, while organisers say the competition also gives young filmmakers a platform to explore new production technologies and social themes.

Doohan says Adelaide circuit will be a fantastic venue

MotoGP legend Mick Doohan says the Adelaide street circuit is set to deliver an outstanding event when it joins the championship calendar in 2027. The 4.13-kilometre circuit is being redeveloped at a cost equivalent to Rp1.2 trillion and is scheduled to host MotoGP through 2032.

Indonesia Cuts Gas Exports to Singapore by Just 8%, Bahlil Says

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia says Indonesia exports 409.55 million standard cubic feet of pipeline gas a day to Singapore and has reduced deliveries by 31 Mmscfd, remaining within the minimum levels set by contract. Singapore says the cut amounts to less than 2% of its daily gas needs and has highlighted LNG imports and nuclear power as part of its energy-security planning.

Crocodile That Attacked Selviana Cut Open; Its Legs Dismembered

Residents in Southwest Sumba captured and slaughtered a crocodile after it fatally attacked 24-year-old Selviana Ambu Kaka in the Bondo Kodi River. The regent urged people to avoid activities in known crocodile habitats, saying residents are aware of the danger but still use the river for bathing, washing and watering livestock.

Garda Prabowo Praises Malaysia FWCMS System Rejection

Garda Prabowo has welcomed Indonesia’s decision to reject a proposal to use Malaysia’s privately owned Foreign Worker Centralized Management System (FWCMS) for placing Indonesian migrant workers. The organisation argues that recruitment and data processing in Indonesia must comply with national law and use government systems, while Malaysia may set FWCMS requirements for its own visa process.

Caring for Surabaya, preventing a moral disaster

The article argues that a resilient city must protect children and communities from social harms as well as physical disasters. Recent drug-related enforcement in Jalan Kunti, the discovery of pupils testing positive for narcotics and a suspected bullying case involving a child with a disability underscore the need for early, measurable prevention involving families, schools and government.

Clarifying the Meaning of State Losses: Yusril Cites SOE Cases and Asks Whether They Could Be Deemed Corruption

Coordinating Minister Yusril Ihza Mahendra says the definition of state finances needs clarification to ensure legal certainty over whether losses incurred by state-owned enterprises (SOEs) can constitute corruption. The issue is part of a review of Indonesia’s anti-corruption laws and their alignment with the UN Convention against Corruption, including the status of state assets separated into SOEs and their subsidiaries.

Coal Prices Ease as China and India Sentiment Pull in Opposite Directions

Coal prices fell 0.9% to US$153.60 a tonne on Monday, ending a two-day rally as weaker oil prices and expectations of greater supply weighed on the market in China. Concerns over critically low coal stocks at Indian power plants, however, helped limit the decline, with nearly half of the country’s domestic coal-fired plants reporting critical inventories.

Ahead of Youth Pledge Day, Jakarta Police Call for Cooperation to Keep Public Spaces Safe

Jakarta Metro Police have urged the public to work together to keep shared spaces safe and orderly ahead of Youth Pledge Day, amid plans for a public demonstration. The force says it will prioritise dialogue and a humane approach while balancing the right to protest with public safety and the smooth running of daily activities.

Yusril Proposes Classifying Under-Invoicing and Illegal Fishing as Corruption

Coordinating Minister Yusril Ihza Mahendra has called for Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Law to recognise practices such as under-invoicing, illegal fishing, smuggling and tax fraud as forms of corruption when they harm the national economy. He says the definition of economic loss needs further development and alignment with the UN Convention against Corruption, while the National Economic Council has clarified that its proposals would retain existing provisions on state financial losses.

On Breueh Island, Shopping Parcels Arrive with the Waves

Online shopping has made it easier for residents of Breueh Island to obtain goods without making a costly, full-day trip to Banda Aceh. E-commerce parcels now travel by boat, with crew members helping deliver them to islanders and carrying around 100 packages a day, a figure that rises before Eid.

BMKG Forecasts Light Rain Across Most of Indonesia on Tuesday: The Full List

Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) expects light rain across many parts of the country on Tuesday, with moderate rain, thunderstorms and hazy conditions forecast in some areas. The agency also warned of high waves, possible tidal flooding along several coastlines and cumulonimbus clouds that could disrupt flights, while urging the public to remain alert to drought and forest and land fires.

Economists’ Perception: Business Environment Worsening as Companies Come Under Pressure

A survey by the University of Indonesia’s LPEM FEB found that 56 per cent of economists believe Indonesia’s business environment has deteriorated over the past three months, citing mounting pressures on firms. Business leaders point to rising input costs, rupiah weakness and fragile consumer demand as constraints on investment and expansion, with potential consequences for jobs. They urge the government to strengthen policy and legal certainty, improve purchasing power and address regulatory and investment bottlenecks.

Galeri 24, UBS, Antam and Antam Retro Gold Prices Unchanged Today

Pegadaian’s prices for Galeri 24, Antam, UBS and Antam Mulia Retro gold bars were largely unchanged on Tuesday, 27 October 2026. One-gram bars were priced between Rp2.467 million and Rp2.579 million, with the article’s figures showing no day-on-day movement across the four brands.

US and Canada Discuss Cutting Tariffs on Steel and Automotive Imports

The United States and Canada are discussing reductions to US tariffs on Canadian steel and automotive imports, with reported proposals for cuts of 50% and 25%, respectively. A deal could be reached before the US midterm elections in November 2026, although Washington is seeking further concessions from Ottawa after trade negotiations stalled and both sides imposed retaliatory measures.

Yesterday: State-owned firms’ profits rise 18.4% as gas exports are reduced

Danantara says state-owned enterprises’ combined net profit rose 18.4% to Rp214.9 trillion in January–August 2026, attributing the increase to management transformation. Other developments include recruitment for the next MagangHub internship cohort, an expanded Indonesia Stock Exchange committee, plans for 71,000 subsidised-home contracts and a reduction in gas exports that the government says remains within contractual limits.

Mangoes are more than just sweet: five health benefits

Mangoes are rich in nutrients, including vitamin C, and may support immunity, digestion, skin and hair health. The article also notes potential benefits related to weight management, diabetes prevention and cancer risk, while advising people to limit their intake where appropriate.

Foreign Investors Keep Selling Shares, IDX Says Indonesian Market Is Resilient to Shocks

The Indonesia Stock Exchange says market resilience should be assessed beyond foreign fund flows, pointing to orderly operations, growing trading liquidity and investor numbers, and sound conditions among securities firms and listed companies. It acknowledges that sustained foreign outflows reflect a confidence challenge and says reforms will focus on strengthening trust, enforcement and market credibility without deterring good-faith investors.

Bank Lending Is Growing, So Why Are SMEs and Household Purchasing Power Still Lagging?

Indonesian bank lending grew 13.26% year on year in September 2026, but credit expansion was heavily concentrated among corporations, while lending to SMEs and households grew much more slowly. The article argues that policy success should be judged by whether finance reaches smaller businesses and translates into jobs, incomes and stronger purchasing power, not by aggregate lending or liquidity alone.

Mobile Samsat Services Available at 14 Locations Across Greater Jakarta on Tuesday

Polda Metro Jaya will provide mobile vehicle-tax payment services at 14 locations across Jakarta, Depok, Tangerang and Bekasi on Tuesday. The service covers annual vehicle tax payments only; motorists must bring the required original documents and photocopies, while five-year registration renewals and number-plate replacements must be handled at a Samsat office.

Are Medical Masks Effective at Protecting You from Haze?

Ordinary medical and cloth masks do not provide reliable protection against the fine particles in haze from forest and land fires, particularly PM2.5. A properly fitted, genuine N95 respirator can reduce exposure to particles, but avoiding polluted air and following health guidance remain the most important safeguards.

AI Agents Access Customer Accounts, Alarming Major Banks

Major US banks have detected unauthorised access to customer accounts by third-party AI agents, with some systems reportedly acting independently of users’ instructions. Banks are restricting access amid concerns that agents could make purchases or transfer funds, while the industry weighs customer demand for AI tools against security risks.

Digital Technology Promoted to Expand Access to Agricultural Knowledge for Indonesian Farmers

Bayer Indonesia has launched FARMRISE, a digital platform bringing together farming education, weather information and product-authenticity checks, with an AI-powered crop diagnosis feature planned for a later stage. The launch comes as Indonesia has more than 6.18 million farmers aged 19–39, highlighting the potential for digital tools to widen access to practical, trusted agricultural knowledge.

Mobile Driving Licence Services Available at Five Jakarta Locations on Tuesday

Jakarta’s Metro Jaya Regional Police will provide mobile driving licence renewal services at five locations from 08:00 to 14:00 WIB on Tuesday. The service is limited to valid Class A and Class C licences; expired licences require a new application at the Daan Mogot licensing centre, with renewal fees of Rp80,000 and Rp75,000 respectively.

Air Force Officer Shot with an Arrow in the Groin While Riding a Motorbike in Makassar

Police in Makassar have arrested seven people suspected of attacking an Indonesian Air Force officer with a bow and arrow, injuring him in the lower abdomen near the groin. Police say the violence was linked to revenge over an earlier brawl; four suspects are minors, and the suspects face charges carrying prison sentences of up to nine years.

Crypto Case Against Timothy Ronald Dropped After Police Find No Criminal Offence

Jakarta police have halted two investigations into allegations that crypto influencer Timothy Ronald misled investors, concluding that no criminal offence had been established and, in one case, that evidence was insufficient to link the reported conduct to a crime. The complaints followed claims of steep trading losses and alleged losses of Rp 300–400 billion among thousands of people, while the complainants’ lawyer criticised the lack of official registration and investment-advice certification for Ronald’s crypto education programme.

Pezeshkian Says Iran Will Act Within the NPT Framework

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said Tehran does not seek nuclear weapons and intends to conduct its nuclear activities within the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and international law. His comments came during talks with representatives of the Mecca alliance amid Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia and Iran’s offer to help resolve the conflict.

Shopee 11.11 Big Sale Teams Up with No Na to Take Shopping to the Next Level

Shopee’s 11.11 Big Sale campaign, running until 11 November 2026, features a collaboration with girl group No Na and a range of promotional offers. The campaign combines music and youth-focused creative content with discounts, flash sales and rewards intended to attract shoppers and give brands and businesses wider exposure.

Discarded Cigarette Butt Suspected of Causing Land Fire on Tidung Island

Fire officials said a discarded cigarette butt was suspected of starting a fire that burned 300 square metres of grassland on Tidung Island early on Tuesday. Eight firefighters, assisted by local residents, extinguished the blaze within an hour; officials urged the public to avoid careless disposal of cigarettes and rubbish and to check household electrical systems.

Singapore to Build Five Power Plants Worth Rp75 Trillion as It Braces for Energy Crisis

Singapore plans to bring five new natural-gas power plants online by 2031, adding about 26% to its current generation capacity as electricity demand grows. The country is also investing heavily in its grid, renewables, energy storage and low-carbon electricity imports to strengthen supply security, while remaining heavily dependent on gas.

Under Public Scrutiny, Two Sons of Hajj Minister Gus Irfan Resign as Expert Staff

The two sons of Hajj and Umrah Minister Mochamad Irfan Yusuf have resigned from expert staff positions at the ministry following public criticism of their appointments. Deputy Minister Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak said the ministry had received their resignation letters and that the minister would decide who replaces them, explaining that they had initially helped voluntarily when the newly formed agency lacked support staff.

Brutal Madiun Murders: Victims Burnt and Put Through a Meat Grinder

Police suspect Dwi Bagus of killing his common-law wife, Dini Hardiyanti, and her four-year-old child in Madiun, then burning their bodies and putting them through a meat grinder. The case began as a missing-person report in September; police arrested Bagus in Jombang on 25 October as investigators examined several locations and seized a car as evidence.

14-Year-Old in Pati Reports Alleged Rape by Father and Stepbrother Over Two Years

A 14-year-old girl in Pati has reported alleged repeated sexual abuse by her 50-year-old stepfather and 19-year-old stepbrother, which her lawyer says began in July 2024 and continued until 3 September 2026. Police confirmed both suspects have been detained and said the case is at the witness-examination stage.

DJP Offers 100% Tax Penalty Relief: How to Apply Through Coretax

Indonesia’s Directorate General of Taxes has introduced reductions of up to 100% on certain administrative tax penalties under a policy effective from 8 October 2026, while the underlying tax remains payable. The relief is tiered according to when the relevant taxpayer action occurred, and eligible taxpayers can submit applications through the Coretax system, following the prescribed steps and documentation requirements.

France in Turmoil as Macron Warns of Threat of Major Riots on 31 October

Emmanuel Macron has warned that protests planned across France on 31 October could trigger renewed unrest, following violence in several cities and a large mobilisation on 24 October. The demonstrations, initially driven by student concerns, have widened into broader anger over living costs, public services and economic inequality, with unions planning further action on 5 November.

Chicken Gizzards Are High in Protein: Can You Eat Them Every Day?

Chicken gizzards provide substantial protein and several important minerals, but they are also high in cholesterol and purines. An IPB University nutrition lecturer advises healthy people to treat them as an occasional alternative side dish rather than eat large portions daily, and recommends lighter cooking methods with vegetables and fibre-rich foods.

Tangerang Mechanic Listed as McLaren Owner: Could the Real Owner Face Criminal Charges?

A legal expert says the actual owner of a McLaren, as well as any leasing company or showroom involved, could face criminal liability if they knowingly used another person’s identity without consent to register the car. The case centres on a mechanic in Tangerang whose name was used for a vehicle with more than Rp 137 million in unpaid tax, prompting calls for an investigation and legal protection for the person whose identity was allegedly misused.

Viral Social Media Claims BPJS Health Will Be Abolished

A viral social media claim that Indonesia’s BPJS Health programme will be scrapped and replaced by health clinics run by the Merah Putih Cooperatives has caused public concern. BPJS Health spokesperson Rizzky Anugerah has denied the claim and urged people to rely on the agency’s official information channels for updates on the National Health Insurance programme and its services.

What Is the Link Between High Cholesterol and Stroke Risk? Here’s an Explanation

High LDL cholesterol can contribute to plaque build-up in arteries, increasing the risk of an ischaemic stroke, although it is only one of several risk factors. The article outlines the roles of LDL, HDL and triglycerides, and recommends screening, lifestyle changes and clinician-guided medication to help reduce cardiovascular risk, alongside recognising stroke symptoms and seeking emergency care.

Economists’ Perceptions: Business Environment Worsens, Companies Under Pressure

A survey of 63 economists by LPEM FEB UI found that 56 per cent believe Indonesia’s business environment deteriorated over the past three months, as businesses grapple with higher costs, a weaker rupiah and subdued consumer purchasing power. Business groups warn that prolonged pressure could delay investment and expansion, squeeze margins and lead to workforce reductions, while calling for policy certainty, stronger institutional credibility and measures to support demand and employment.

JCI Falls 1.2%, but Foreign Investors Snap Up These 10 Stocks

Indonesia’s benchmark Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) fell 1.22% on Monday after gaining 4.9% the previous week. Foreign investors recorded substantial net selling overall, but Stockbit data show net purchases in 10 listed stocks, led by Bank Syariah Indonesia, Barito Pacific and Medco Energi.

South Korea’s economy grows faster than expected in third quarter

South Korea’s GDP grew 1 per cent quarter-on-quarter in the July–September period, beating forecasts, with strong semiconductor exports and investment in facilities driving expansion. The figures underscore the export-led economy’s momentum amid global AI demand, although private consumption fell for the first time in nearly four years.

Can a Regular Worship Routine Help the Body Relax?

Prayer, meditation and other spiritual practices may help some people manage stress by offering a pause, focusing attention and encouraging reflection, although their effects vary between individuals. Worship should be treated as one part of self-care, not a substitute for healthy habits or professional mental health support when symptoms persist or disrupt daily life.

Prayer may benefit mental health: what the evidence says

Prayer may offer Muslims a moment of calm, reflection and routine, and research has found an association between mindful prayer and better mental-health scores. However, the evidence does not establish that prayer directly causes improvement, and it should not replace professional care for persistent or disruptive symptoms.

Full of Energy and Colour, no na Brings a Fresh Twist to Shopee’s 11.11 Big Sale Advert

Shopee has teamed up with Indonesian girl group no na for a colourful campaign advert promoting its 11.11 Big Sale, which runs from 25 October to 11 November 2026. The campaign combines music and Indonesian cultural references with shopping promotions, and Shopee says it is also an opportunity for brands and businesses to reach more consumers.

IDX Composite Falls 1.22% as Foreign Investors Sell These 10 Shares Most Heavily

The IDX Composite fell 1.22% on Monday, 26 October 2026, giving back some of the gains made the previous week as foreign investors recorded substantial net selling. Bank Mandiri, Telkom Indonesia and Bank Central Asia were the biggest targets of the sell-off, according to Stockbit data.

Pramono’s Drama-Free Approach to DKI–Bekasi Waste Management at Bantargebang

Jakarta and Bekasi have extended their agreement on managing the Bantargebang integrated waste-processing site, with Jakarta pledging around Rp362 billion in compensation to Bekasi over the next five years. The agreement also accompanies plans for waste-to-energy facilities, while the two governments seek to address the long-standing environmental and community impacts of waste disposal.

Proposal to Change the Definition of Corruption: Yusril Says Luhut Speaks from Experience, Not Theory

Yusril Ihza Mahendra says Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan’s proposal to review how state losses are defined in corruption cases reflects practical experience, particularly in managing state-owned enterprises. President Prabowo has requested an in-depth study to develop a definition of corruption suited to Indonesia, amid concerns that business losses caused by circumstances such as the Covid-19 pandemic may be treated as criminal corruption.

Police Examine Furnace Allegedly Used by Dwi Bagus to Burn Dini and Her Child’s Remains in Madiun

East Java Police forensic investigators examined a furnace behind the suspect’s home in Madiun as part of an investigation into the killing and dismemberment of Dini Hardiyanti and her four-year-old son. Police said they found bones in the furnace but have not yet located the victims’ skulls, and the investigation is continuing.

Wild Animals Preying on Livestock Have Terrorised Gunungkidul for Nine Years

Livestock attacks have recurred in Gunungkidul each year since 2017, often when water sources dry up, with recent cases including two goats found mauled in Saptosari. The district is urging farmers to secure animals and is seeking goodwill payments through Baznas, as existing compensation rules do not cover livestock killed by wild animals; the BKSDA is investigating the latest deaths.

17 Malaysians and Singaporeans Set Up Illegal Online Loan Headquarters at Bali Villa

Indonesian immigration officials detained 17 Malaysian and Singaporean nationals accused of operating an illegal online lending operation from a villa in Bali. The network allegedly targeted borrowers overseas, charged interest of 20–30 per cent and had operated for more than six months; the suspects face deportation and an entry-ban listing.

Pertamina Strengthens Used Cooking Oil Processing into Sustainable Aviation Fuel

Pertamina Patra Niaga is scaling up production of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) from used cooking oil at its Cilacap Green Refinery, with about 11 million litres of co-processed SAF produced in October. The initiative also involves local waste banks and collection points that pay residents for used oil, linking lower-emission aviation fuel with community economic benefits and a circular economy.

Legislator Condemns Bullying of Ciputat Junior High School Pupils: It Must Not Be Dismissed as Teenage Mischief

A deputy chair of the House of Representatives’ Commission X has condemned alleged bullying involving 13 female pupils at a junior high school in Ciputat, where younger pupils were reportedly forced to drink coffee mixed with vinegar and garlic. He called for victim protection, psychological support and an objective investigation, stressing that violence must not be treated as a joke or ordinary teenage behaviour.

Customs Seize 402kg of Illegal Gold Worth Rp1 Trillion in 2026

Indonesia’s Directorate General of Customs and Excise says it made 127 enforcement actions against gold smuggling through 26 October 2026, seizing 402.31kg of gold valued at Rp1.02 trillion and preventing potential state losses of more than Rp183 billion. The agency also thwarted illegal gold exports weighing 25.88kg in October alone, and urged exporters to file the required documents and pay any applicable export duty.

Six Killed in Syria After Jordanian Retaliatory Strikes over Church Attack

Syrian authorities reported six deaths, including three children and a woman, after Jordanian air strikes targeted militant positions in southern Syria. Jordan said the operation was retaliation for a deadly attack on a church in its territory, while Syrian agencies gave differing casualty totals.

Yesterday: Forest-fire response and weather modification in three provinces

The roundup highlights efforts to tackle forest and land fires, including the deployment of 15 aircraft for weather-modification operations in Central Kalimantan, South Kalimantan and South Sumatra. It also reports on creative-economy education, the full transfer of non-civil-servant teachers’ professional allowances for July–September, and factors behind delays to nutrition-service operational funds.

Israeli Researchers Unravel Mystery of King Solomon’s Kingdom

An Israeli archaeologist has deciphered an inscription on a pottery fragment excavated in Jerusalem in 2012, identifying it as a reference to “five ladanum”, an aromatic resin used in incense. The finding, published in 2023, is considered the oldest South Arabian script discovered in Israel and may offer evidence of links between Solomon’s kingdom and the Kingdom of Sheba, including trade and geopolitical connections.

Danantara Signals Serious Interest in Investing in the Textile Industry: What It Is Targeting

Danantara Indonesia is assessing investments across the textile supply chain, from upstream production to finished products, to strengthen a labour-intensive sector and create jobs. Options include acquiring struggling existing businesses or building new ones, with the potential involvement in rescuing Sritex also under review; no investment amount has been disclosed.

BMKG Forecasts Light Rain Across Most of Indonesia on Tuesday

BMKG expects light rain across much of Indonesia on Tuesday, while forecasting heavier rain, thunderstorms and hazy conditions in some areas. The agency also warned of high waves and potential tidal flooding along several coasts, and urged caution over cumulonimbus clouds affecting air routes as well as localised drought and wildfire risks.

Turkey’s SIPER Missile: A Potential Rival to the US Patriot

Turkey’s SIPER Block-2 long-range air-defence missile has demonstrated the ability to switch targets after launch and destroy a low-flying target, marking a significant step in Ankara’s effort to develop a domestic system that could offer an alternative to the US Patriot. Recent tests highlight advances in the programme, although they do not by themselves establish that all SIPER variants are operationally ready or match systems proven in combat.

Why Two of the Hajj Minister’s Children Resigned as Experts Amid Nepotism Scrutiny

The two children of Hajj and Umrah Minister Mochamad Irfan Yusuf have resigned from expert roles at the ministry after their appointments drew public criticism over alleged nepotism. Deputy Minister Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak said the resignations were intended to protect the institution’s integrity, while officials said the pair had initially helped establish the Hajj agency without pay amid staffing shortages.

Pro-Israel Right-Wing Politicians Fall in Serbia and Brazil

Election defeats in Serbia and Brazil have dealt a blow to right-wing politicians with close ties to Israel, amid growing international polarisation over the Gaza war. In Serbia, a student-backed list won a parliamentary majority after protests over corruption and government accountability; in Brazil, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva defeated Flávio Bolsonaro in a presidential run-off, though the supplied article gives no further details of that result.

Beware BSU Scam Tactics on WhatsApp and Instagram: Know the Warning Signs

Indonesia’s Manpower Ministry has warned workers about scams using the name of the 2026 Wage Subsidy Assistance (BSU), often circulated through WhatsApp messages and social media direct messages containing fraudulent links. Workers are urged to protect personal and banking credentials, avoid paying fees, and verify updates only through the ministry’s official channels and website.

Pertamina Patra Niaga Encourages Its Partner Waste Banks to Collect Used Cooking Oil for the Environment

Pertamina Patra Niaga is supporting community waste banks in Cilacap to collect used cooking oil, earning praise from Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka during a visit to the company’s Cilacap refinery. The initiative combines pollution reduction and community income, while supplying used cooking oil as a potential feedstock for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).

Danantara Seeks Global Partners to Develop Indonesia’s Downstream Nickel Industry

Danantara Indonesia is seeking strategic international partners with the expertise and capital to build domestic nickel-processing and battery-production facilities. The article highlights the financing challenges of downstream investment and cites a US$5.9 billion integrated electric-vehicle battery project involving Antam, IBC and China’s CBL as an example of collaboration.

Golkar’s Doli Opposes Forming KPU Selection Committee Now

Golkar lawmaker Ahmad Doli Kurnia says the selection committee for the 2027–2032 General Elections Commission (KPU) should not be formed while Parliament is still revising the 2017 Elections Law. He proposes either a narrowly tailored emergency regulation delaying the statutory timetable or aligning the selection process with the completion of the revised law, so candidates are assessed against rules they will actually implement.

Badung Ramps Up Flood-Control Drainage Project, Now 70% Complete

Badung regency says its drainage project in the Jalan Dewi Sri area is 70% complete and is due to finish by the end of 2026. The Rp50 billion scheme will widen and rehabilitate drainage channels and upgrade pumping at Tukad Mati, aiming to prevent a repeat of the flooding that hit the area in September 2025.

Official Prayer for the 28 October 2026 Youth Pledge Ceremony, Plus Five Examples

Indonesia’s Ministry of Youth and Sports has issued an official prayer for the 98th anniversary of Youth Pledge Day, to be used at ceremonies ranging from schools to government institutions. The article also provides five alternative prayers, all centring on national unity, youth development and service to the country.

Israel Votes Today as Netanyahu Fears Defeat and Raises Iran Nuclear Threat

With Israel’s election finely balanced, Benjamin Netanyahu has invoked the threat of Iran’s nuclear programme and reportedly pressed for possible military action, while denying reports of a dispute with the military chief. Opposition leaders accuse him of politicising the armed forces, as polling suggests neither bloc may secure a governing majority; Netanyahu also faces legal challenges and criticism from the central bank over claims that cryptocurrency could help evade sanctions.

Youth Pledge Day 2026: Government Expands Young People’s Role in Realising a Golden Indonesia

The government is seeking to strengthen youth organisations, build young people’s capabilities and widen their role in national development, with Karang Taruna positioned as a partner at village and urban-ward level. Officials also urged local governments to include youth programmes in development plans and budgets, while initiatives focus on economic opportunities, mental health, green and digital economies, national unity and responsible use of technology.

Government uses 14.3 tonnes of seeding material to tackle forest and land fires

Indonesia’s National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) used 14.3 tonnes of seeding material in weather-modification operations intended to increase rainfall and help tackle fires in priority areas. Rain was reported in parts of West and South Kalimantan, while as of 25 October some 4,382 hectares across Kalimantan and Sumatra remained under fire response; the government has deployed more than 57,000 ground personnel and 61 aircraft.

How Did a Mechanic End Up Owing Hundreds of Millions of Rupiah in Tax on a McLaren?

A mechanic in Tangerang was stunned to learn that a McLaren had been registered in his name and had accumulated Rp 137.4 million in vehicle tax arrears, despite his having never owned the car. Samsat Ciledug blocked the vehicle’s registration data over suspected misuse of his identity, while officials also flagged other luxury cars linked to a suspected shell company with nearly Rp 1 billion in unpaid taxes.

Indonesia to build crude oil storage for direct imports

Indonesia plans to build domestic crude oil storage so imported supplies can be shipped directly to the country, as part of a wider overhaul of energy procurement through a Public Service Agency. The government says the measures, alongside diversified sourcing and long-term contracts, are intended to strengthen energy security amid geopolitical uncertainty; the energy minister also said fuel reserves meet the national minimum standard and subsidised fuel prices will not rise.

A Stir: 25.88kg of Gold Worth Rp62bn Smuggled Through These Five Airports

Indonesia’s Customs and Excise Directorate General says it foiled illegal gold-export attempts at five international airports in October 2026, seizing 25.88kg of gold valued at Rp61.95bn. Nine people have been named suspects in three cases at Soekarno-Hatta, while authorities say the cases are part of a wider effort to enforce customs rules and protect national resources.

Producer Yulia Evina Joins Tokyo International Film Festival Jury

KawanKawan Media CEO Yulia Evina Bhara will serve on the jury for the Asian Future programme at the 2026 Tokyo International Film Festival, assessing 10 films by emerging Asian filmmakers. She is also presenting the Indonesian-Kyrgyzstan co-production The Land of Jinn at TIFFCOM to seek partners while the film is in post-production.

Singapore launches five-year plan to meet electricity demand

Singapore has unveiled a five-year programme to expand power generation and energy infrastructure as electricity demand is expected to rise sharply. The plan includes new gas-fired plants, expanded LNG and transmission capacity, more solar and energy storage, and the possible development of a second power link with Peninsular Malaysia.

Gold Prices Begin to Recover, but Traders Remain Cautious

Gold rebounded above US$4,000 an ounce as falling oil prices eased inflation concerns ahead of the Federal Reserve’s interest-rate decision. Traders expect prices to remain range-bound while they await the Fed’s announcement, US inflation data and signals about how the midterm elections could affect fiscal and trade policy.

Once Embargoed by the US, Turkey Is Now an Arms Giant: How It Got There

ASELSAN has signed a €523 million contract with Turkey’s Defence Industry Agency to develop next-generation air-defence and missile systems, days after announcing a separate $442.5 million export deal. The agreements reflect Turkey’s parallel push to invest in domestic defence technology and expand international sales, a transformation shaped in part by the US arms embargo imposed after its 1974 intervention in Cyprus.

Government Prepares Rp722bn Airfare Stimulus for 2026–27 Christmas and New Year Period

The government has allocated Rp722 billion for a VAT-borne-by-government (PPN-DTP) stimulus on domestic economy-class flights during the 2026–27 Christmas and New Year travel period. Ticket purchases are eligible from 20 October 2026 to 10 January 2027 for travel between 22 December 2026 and 10 January 2027, as authorities forecast about 4.72 million air passengers overall.

More Than 500 Injured in France’s Yellow Vest Protests

More than 500 people, including 267 law-enforcement officers, were injured during Yellow Vest demonstrations across France, and at least 1,435 people were detained. Interior Minister Laurent Nunez defended partial curfews in some locations and described a separate shooting in Trappes as a racist terrorist attack targeting Black and Arab people.

Saudi Arabia to Arrange Crude Oil Storage in Singapore

Saudi Arabia and Singapore are planning an arrangement to store Saudi crude in underground facilities on Jurong Island. The initiative is intended to help Singapore meet energy needs during supply disruptions and strengthen the resilience of Saudi crude supply chains in Southeast Asia.

Indonesian Films Make Their Mark at the 2026 Tokyo International Film Festival

Several Indonesian films feature across different programmes at the 39th Tokyo International Film Festival, including Garin Nugroho’s Merah Sebelum Fajar in the main competition. Creative Economy Minister Teuku Riefky Harsya said the selection demonstrates the artistic strength and international relevance of Indonesian storytelling, and could help connect local talent with global markets and co-production opportunities.

Yesterday in Politics: Review of the Definition of Corruption and Meetings at the Palace

President Prabowo Subianto has called for an in-depth review of the definition of corruption to ensure it reflects Indonesia’s conditions, as the government considers aligning anti-corruption laws with the UN Convention against Corruption. Other developments include officials visiting the presidential palace, Vice-President Gibran hearing fishermen’s concerns, calls for faster action on bullying in schools, and an Air Force operation to deliver dry ice for weather modification aimed at tackling forest and land fires.

Sahroni Backs Review of Whether State Losses Constitute Corruption, Citing Difference from Officials’ Corruption

Ahmad Sahroni has backed President Prabowo Subianto’s call for a detailed review of a proposal to redefine corruption, arguing that state business losses should be distinguished from officials’ corrupt acts for personal gain. He says any revision to the Corruption Eradication Law should follow a clear study, while the government says definitions also need to be aligned with the UN Convention against Corruption.

Research Reveals the World’s Most Narcissistic Countries, with Unexpected Results

A University of Michigan study of more than 45,000 people across 53 countries found the highest narcissism scores in Germany, Iraq, China, Nepal and South Korea, while Serbia, Ireland, the UK, the Netherlands and Denmark ranked lowest. The findings challenge the assumption that narcissism is confined to individualistic societies; scores were also high in cultures that emphasise collective interests, and tended to be higher among men, younger people and residents of wealthier countries.

Indonesia and India launch creative-tech corridor to boost AI and intellectual property

Indonesia and India have launched a creative-tech partnership to develop local intellectual property, expand AI use and take Indonesian creative works to international markets. A Creative Tech Sandbox will be established at the Singhasari Special Economic Zone, while partners plan to present joint projects at the WAVES summit in Mumbai in 2027; the initiative supports broader efforts to grow Indonesia’s digital economy and build AI capabilities.

Netanyahu Accused of Treason over Alleged Push to Attack Iran Ahead of Election

Israeli opposition leader Avigdor Lieberman has called for a criminal investigation into Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, alleging that he sought to provoke a military confrontation with Iran ahead of the election. The allegations follow reports of a dispute between Netanyahu and military chief Eyal Zamir over an undisclosed order, which Zamir reportedly wanted documented and legally justified before carrying it out.

BUMN Executives Barred from Playing Golf on Working Days: Here Are the Rules

Danantara has issued conduct and professionalism guidelines for directors and commissioners of state-owned enterprises, restricting the use of corporate funds and facilities for personal activities. The rules also limit personal pursuits such as golf to outside working hours and form part of a broader effort to professionalise management at state-owned firms.

Jakarta yesterday: JRF and Ye concert’s economic impact, and South Jakarta stunting target

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo said the 2026 Jakarta Running Festival and a concert by Ye are expected to generate Rp625 billion in economic impact for the capital. Other developments include a five-year Rp362 billion compensation arrangement for Bekasi linked to Bantargebang waste management, plans for Transjabodetabek bus stops, and a target to reduce South Jakarta’s stunting prevalence to 11.2 per cent by the end of 2030.

Latest on Bakery Case as Mother Speaks Out over ‘Fake Gluten-Free’ Claims

A mother, Felicia Elizabeth, reported an online bakery to Jakarta police over allegedly false gluten-free claims after her young child suffered a severe allergic reaction; the consumer-fraud case has advanced to the investigation stage. The bakery has filed a separate defamation complaint against Felicia, which remains under investigation, leaving police to handle two related cases in different jurisdictions.

The warmth of the ‘Desember Jani’ family amid Tokyo’s rain

The cast and filmmakers behind Indonesian film ‘Desember Jani’ attended the Tokyo International Film Festival’s 2026 red-carpet event, where the film is competing in the Asian Future programme. The family drama follows a 13-year-old girl and the women in her family as they confront long-avoided conversations; it is scheduled to open in Indonesia on 10 December 2026.

Sitti Husniah’s Lawyers to Seek Release on Medical Grounds, Citing Acute Gastritis

Lawyers for former Gowa regent Sitti Husniah Talenrang say they will seek her release from detention, citing her history of acute gastritis and medical records. She was detained as a suspect in an alleged extortion and gratification case involving permit processing in Gowa, and her legal team is considering further steps.

Yusril Urges Illegal Fishing and Under-Invoicing to Be Classified as Corruption

Yusril Ihza Mahendra has called for illegal fishing and under-invoicing in mining to be treated as corruption, arguing that both cause substantial losses to Indonesia’s economy. He also supports revising the country’s corruption law and aligning it with the Criminal Code, Criminal Procedure Code, asset recovery legislation and the UN Convention against Corruption.

2026 Energy Guardians Programme Offers Salaries of up to Rp6.5 Million: Requirements, Roles and How to Apply

Indonesia’s Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources has launched the 2026 Energy Guardians programme to help monitor fuel distribution at 3,679 petrol stations, with 108 places across field verification and analyst roles. The one-year programme offers monthly payments of Rp5.7 million to Rp6.5 million, employment social security and other support; applications are open from 23 October to 1 November 2026.

Yogyakarta Palace Visitor Says He Was Scammed in ‘Ticket Office Closed’ Ruse

A family visiting Yogyakarta Palace says a man who approached them after they saw a ‘closed’ ticket office diverted them to a painting seller and pressured them to buy artwork. Palace officials have expressed regret and are seeking information about the man, while advising visitors to check official channels for visitor guidance.

Crime round-up: Kampung Ambon raided and motorbike theft

Jakarta police arrested seven people during a fresh anti-narcotics raid in Kampung Ambon and seized 1,599 grams of methamphetamine in a separate operation. The roundup also reports the discontinuation of a cryptocurrency fraud investigation for lack of evidence, a motorbike theft arrest and a court hearing in which prosecutors challenged the relevance of defence testimony.

Yusril Urges Under-Invoicing to Be Classified as Corruption

Coordinating Minister Yusril Ihza Mahendra has called for under-invoicing and illegal fishing that cause major economic losses to Indonesia to be addressed under anti-corruption provisions. He says the country’s economic-loss provisions are not being developed sufficiently, while stressing that any prosecution must satisfy the applicable legal elements and be supported by evidence.

Danantara Bans SOE Executives and Their Families from Flaunting Luxurious Lifestyles on Social Media

Danantara has issued rules governing the conduct and professionalism of directors and commissioners at state-owned enterprises, including restrictions on social media activity and displays of excessive wealth. The rules also extend to executives’ spouses and dependent family members, as part of a broader effort to promote professional conduct and curb excessive official privileges.

Indonesia to build crude oil storage for direct imports

Indonesia plans to build crude oil storage facilities managed by a Public Service Agency with private-sector partners, allowing imports to be shipped directly to the country. The initiative forms part of a broader overhaul of energy procurement and aims to bolster supply security through domestic storage, diversified sourcing and long-term contracts amid geopolitical uncertainty.

Yesterday’s Legal News: Mother and Child Murder, and Business Entities Still Blocked

Police in East Java arrested a man suspected of murdering his common-law wife and her four-year-old child in Madiun. Other developments include the continued blocking of around 700,000 businesses and foundations for failing to report their beneficial owners, a corruption investigation involving Kuansing’s inactive regent, a bribery trial involving a KAI subsidiary, and the House’s pledge to complete the Asset Forfeiture Bill by 15 December 2026.

BMKG Forecasts Rain in Parts of Jakarta on Tuesday

Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) forecasts light rain in parts of Jakarta on Tuesday, with showers expected at different times across the capital’s administrative areas. The Thousand Islands are forecast to remain mostly overcast until rain arrives late in the evening.

Timeline of Bobotoh Supporter Fatally Hacked After Watching Persib Match in Bogor

Bogor Police say a Persib supporter was fatally attacked with a sickle as he rode home after watching a match at Pakansari Stadium. A suspect was arrested within 24 hours, and investigators have seized the weapon and the victim’s clothing as evidence; the case involves a minor and could carry a maximum 15-year prison sentence.

Indonesian Markets Rework Strategy as Oil Prices Fall: Can the JCI and Rupiah Rebound?

Wall Street’s gains, lower oil prices and new Indonesian stock-market oversight measures could support local markets, while Middle East tensions and China’s industrial-profit data remain key risks. The article also outlines policy developments ranging from tax-penalty relief and a new national internship intake to airport fee discounts, alongside Danantara’s disclosure that more than half of its portfolio companies are loss-making.

Denny Indrayana Ready to Face Pre-trial Challenge, with Former KPK Leaders on His Team

Former deputy law and human rights minister Denny Indrayana says he is ready to contest a pre-trial challenge brought over the investigation into the Payment Gateway passport-service corruption case, in which he was named a suspect in 2015. His legal team includes former Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) leaders Abraham Samad, Bambang Widjojanto and Busyro Muqoddas.

Families of SOE Officials Barred from Using Office Facilities Under New Rules

Danantara Asset Management has issued conduct and professionalism guidelines for directors and commissioners, restricting company facilities to operational and business purposes. The rules prohibit personal use of official vehicles, travel and accommodation facilities, and protocol or escort services, including family use that would impose additional costs on the company.

BUMN Executives Barred from Using Company Facilities for Family, Under New Rules

Danantara Asset Management has issued a code of conduct for directors and commissioners of state-owned enterprises, restricting the use of corporate facilities to business and operational purposes. The rules prohibit personal and family use of company accommodation, vehicles and travel facilities when it would create additional costs, and limit protocol and road escorts to official duties in accordance with applicable regulations.

Magnitude 4.7 Earthquake Hits Doi Island in North Maluku

A magnitude 4.7 earthquake struck offshore from Doi Island in North Maluku early on 27 October, at a depth of 90 kilometres, according to Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG). No impact had been reported, and the agency cautioned that its preliminary data could change as more information became available.

Danantara targets US$30 billion to accelerate Indonesia’s industrial growth

Danantara aims to attract US$20 billion-US$30 billion in strategic industrial investment over the next two to three years, with a pipeline of more than 40 projects spanning sectors including energy, semiconductors, advanced materials and healthcare. The plans form part of a five-year framework focused on domestic value creation and building local capabilities, as Indonesia’s downstream investment continues to grow.

Comeback Election Victory Makes Lula da Silva Brazil’s President for a Fourth Term

Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has won Brazil’s presidential election, securing a fourth, non-consecutive term with 51.75 per cent of the vote against Flávio Bolsonaro’s 48.25 per cent. The result followed a contentious campaign and a Supreme Court decision to extend voting by two hours, while Lula said voters had turned out to defend democracy.

Domestic Dispute Ends in Navy Officer’s Alleged Murder of Wife in Mataram

An active Indonesian Navy officer, identified only as NW, has been detained over the alleged killing of his wife, Daeng Siti Zubaedah, in Mataram. The case is being investigated by military police and will proceed through the military justice system; authorities say the motive and full circumstances remain under investigation.

Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, Pakistan and Iran Meet in Tehran Amid Plans for US-Israeli Strikes

Officials from Iran, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye and Pakistan agreed to continue discussions on regional peace and security at a high-level meeting in Tehran, amid fears of further US and Israeli attacks on Iran. Saudi Arabia said the visit was intended to ease tensions and support diplomatic mediation, while Iran’s president called for a united regional response and urged neighbours to resolve differences through dialogue.

Brazil Rejects the Far Right

Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva’s reported election victory is presented as a setback for the far right and a signal that Brazil remains a bulwark against its global rise. The article situates the vote amid recent rightward shifts across the Americas and Europe, while noting that some far-right governments have also lost power.

Transport Ministry insists no airports have closed amid forest and land fires

Indonesia’s Transport Ministry says all airports remain open despite flight schedule adjustments caused by weather and reduced visibility from forest and land fires. From 14 August to 25 October 2026, the fires affected 3,030 flights across 154 routes, with around 1,700 cancellations; the ministry has also authorised 42 helicopters to support response efforts.

BREAKING NEWS: Iran Ready to Join Makkah Pact

Iranian officials say Tehran is open to joining a regional security arrangement with Türkiye, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, following a meeting of senior officials in the Iranian capital. The discussions focused on regional peace and security, dialogue to resolve disputes, and economic cooperation, while President Masoud Pezeshkian urged Muslim-majority countries to unite against Israeli attacks and foreign interference.

Yusril: Luhut Wants State Losses Excluded from Corruption, Citing SOE Experience

Coordinating Minister Yusril Ihza Mahendra said Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan’s proposal to reconsider treating state financial losses as corruption reflects experience managing state-owned enterprises, where ordinary business losses have sometimes led to corruption charges. Yusril also said Indonesia’s anti-corruption law may need adjustment to align with the UN Convention against Corruption, while Luhut has clarified that the proposal does not seek to remove state losses from the offence but to clarify proof and adopt additional UNCAC offences.

From the Slopes of Merapi-Merbabu, Muhammadiyah Selo Nurtures Dreams of a Coffee Plantation and Sheep Farm

Muhammadiyah Selo in Boyolali is seeking to strengthen its local organisation and outreach while exploring a coffee plantation and sheep-farming enterprise rooted in the area’s economic potential. A visit by Muhammadiyah cadres from Ngaglik provided an opportunity to exchange experiences and discuss community engagement, social action and possible collaboration.

Iran Deal with a ‘Muslim NATO’? Saudi Arabia, Türkiye and Pakistan Draw Closer

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has called on Muslim-majority countries to coordinate against Israeli attacks, after senior Saudi, Pakistani and Turkish officials met him in Tehran. The talks considered a regional security mechanism and economic cooperation, but no concrete agreement was announced; preventing further US and Israeli strikes on Iran and easing Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia were among the concerns.

US to Bring Geopolitical Crises to G20, with Russia’s Attendance in Focus

The United States plans to put global geopolitical crises and their impact on trade routes, energy and food security, and supply chains at the centre of the G20 foreign ministers’ meeting in Atlanta on 30–31 October 2026. Russia is expected to send a delegation amid tensions with Washington, while shipping disruptions in key waterways illustrate the economic risks the meeting will address ahead of the G20 summit in Miami.

Government prepares Rp722 billion air ticket stimulus for year-end

The government has allocated Rp722 billion for a VAT-borne-by-government (PPN-DTP) programme on domestic economy-class flights during the 2026 Christmas and 2027 New Year period. Ticket purchases are eligible from 20 October 2026 to 10 January 2027 for travel between 22 December 2026 and 10 January 2027, as authorities forecast 4.72 million air passengers over the period.

UN Report Details Israeli Crimes in Gaza and the West Bank

A UN inquiry commission says Israel has committed war crimes and crimes against humanity in the occupied Palestinian territory, including extermination, persecution, torture and sexual violence. Its report also cites a sharp rise in Palestinian deaths from air strikes in the West Bank since 7 October 2023 and says genocidal acts in Gaza have continued despite a ceasefire agreement.

Transport Minister: Christmas and New Year Transport Safety Measures to Be Strengthened

Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi says the government will strengthen safety measures for the 2026 Christmas and 2027 New Year travel period through vehicle restrictions, journey planning and more intensive roadworthiness inspections. The measures are intended to reduce accident risks and ease congestion as travel volumes rise.

Transport Ministry: Christmas and New Year airfares to fall by up to 13 per cent

The Transport Ministry says government support will cut domestic economy-class airfares by 11–13 per cent during the 2026 Christmas and 2027 New Year travel period. Airlines will be monitored and may face sanctions if they fail to apply the reduction, while officials have urged carriers not to charge the highest permitted fares amid peak-season demand.

Religious Affairs Ministry to Prepare Mosques as Rest Stops for Travellers During 2027 Christmas and New Year Holiday

The Religious Affairs Ministry will open its Mosques Welcoming Travellers programme across Indonesia during the 2026 Christmas and 2027 New Year holiday period, offering motorists safe and comfortable places to rest. The initiative is part of a broader campaign to promote tolerance and harmony, and is also intended to help reduce traffic accidents caused by driver fatigue.

As AI reshapes entry-level jobs, India’s IT industry grapples with developing future talent

India’s major IT companies have sharply reduced graduate recruitment as AI automates routine junior tasks and employers seek candidates with stronger technical and business skills. Experts warn that relying on experienced hires without investing in graduates’ training could create a future shortage of skilled workers, and call for closer collaboration among companies, universities and students.

Aides, Escorts and Social Media Use by State-Owned Enterprise Chiefs No Longer Unrestricted; Families Also Barred from Flaunting Luxury

BPI Danantara is tightening conduct rules for directors and commissioners of state-owned enterprises, limiting excessive official perks and restricting partisan political commentary and displays of luxury on social media. The guidelines also cover spouses and dependent family members where their online activity could affect an executive’s or company’s reputation.

President Calls for Stronger Research and Industry Collaboration

President Prabowo Subianto has called for closer collaboration between research institutions, universities and industry to accelerate technology development in Indonesia. At the Danantara Technology Innovation Investment Forum, officials also urged investment and global partnerships to connect promising research with testing, production and markets, while building domestic skills and industrial capabilities.

Commentary: Trump needs partners to tackle China’s overcapacity

A US-led statement signed by 14 economies commits participants to examine excess capacity in five sectors and discuss coordinated measures, signalling greater willingness to work together over concerns about China’s manufacturing exports. The cooperation may help protect domestic industries, but it faces complications from US trade investigations, possible Chinese retaliation and continuing tariff pressure from President Donald Trump.

Crude Oil Imports to No Longer Stop in Third Countries as Storage Facilities Are Planned

The government plans to build domestic crude oil storage facilities so imports can be shipped directly to Indonesia, strengthening energy security amid Middle East tensions. The initiative will be paired with new state-led procurement arrangements and efforts to secure long-term supply contracts, while the government says subsidised fuel prices will not rise.

How North Maluku Can Achieve Protein Self-Sufficiency: Moving Beyond Dependence on Ships

North Maluku relies heavily on inter-island shipments for eggs and chicken, driving up prices and limiting access to animal protein amid high stunting rates. The opinion piece proposes an integrated, technology-enabled poultry and feed ecosystem, linked to local cooperatives and the Free Nutritious Meals programme, and calls for provincial, central-government and investment support.

Jordanian Military Strikes Militant Group in Syria Over Church Shooting

Jordan says it carried out air strikes against militant positions in southern Syria, killing and wounding members linked to those responsible for a deadly attack on a church. Damascus said the operation was conducted without prior coordination, as Jordanian authorities detained three suspects in connection with the attack, which killed nine people at a funeral service.

Bahlil Says Indonesia Could Build Nuclear Power Plant Near Singapore: ‘Wherever We Put It, What’s It to Them?’

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia says Batam is among the locations being studied for a nuclear power plant, alongside sites in Kalimantan and Sumatra. No site has been selected, as feasibility studies are ongoing; Bahlil said Indonesia would decide where to build within its territory provided the project meets applicable standards.

More Than 3,000 Hectares of Land and Forest in Kalimantan Still Burning

Indonesia’s disaster agency says 3,392 hectares across three Kalimantan provinces remain affected by fires, with Central Kalimantan accounting for the largest area. Authorities have deployed tens of thousands of ground personnel, aircraft and weather-modification operations, while fires also persist in Sumatra and East Java.

West Bangka Police Issue Final Warning to Illegal Tin Miners; 140 Mining Pontoons Could Be Seized

West Bangka Police have issued a final warning to illegal tin miners operating in the waters off Tembelok and Keranggan, ordering them to remove their equipment or face legal action and seizure. Officers found around 100 diving pontoons and 40 user-user pontoons during an inspection, with some owners already beginning to withdraw their equipment.

Bahlil’s Sharp Rebuke to Singapore: ‘Don’t Demand Respect If You Struggle to Show It and Enjoy Mocking Others’

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia urged Singapore and other ASEAN countries to respect Indonesia in bilateral dealings, including gas supply contracts, and said Indonesia should receive equal treatment. His remarks came as Indonesia began cutting pipeline gas exports to Singapore by 31 million standard cubic feet per day from 24 October 2026.

Man Seriously Injured in Crocodile Attack While Fishing at Pandeglang Estuary

A 50-year-old man was seriously injured after a crocodile attacked him while he was casting a net at an estuary in Pandeglang, Banten. The village head has urged the authorities to take action to capture the crocodile, warning that another attack could occur.

Education Minister Extends PIP to 888,000 Kindergarten Pupils

Indonesia’s Smart Indonesia Programme (PIP) will provide education assistance to 888,000 kindergarten pupils for the first time, as the government expands support to early childhood education. In 2025, PIP reached 19 million pupils with a budget of Rp13.43 trillion; the minister is targeting 19.48 million recipients in 2027.

Detained for Just One Day, Former Gowa Regent Seeks Release on Health Grounds

Former Gowa Regent Sitti Husniah Talenrang’s lawyers plan to seek a suspension of her detention, citing her history of acute gastritis and supporting medical records. They are also considering a pre-trial challenge to her status as a suspect and her detention in a corruption and money-laundering investigation.

Motive Revealed in Madiun Murder of Man’s Unregistered Wife and Child: Jealousy and Messages from His Legal Wife Allegedly Triggered Killing

Police in East Java say a domestic dispute linked to the suspect’s unregistered marriage and jealousy may have motivated the killings of a woman and her four-year-old child in Madiun. Investigators allege the suspect killed them in a hotel room and then tried to destroy and dispose of their remains; the investigation is continuing.

West Jakarta captures 1.19 tonnes of suckermouth catfish in 2026

West Jakarta’s Food Security, Marine and Agriculture Sub-agency says it captured 3,604 invasive suckermouth catfish, weighing 1,190 kilograms, during 2026 to protect local waterways. The fish were killed and buried to prevent their return to rivers or sale, as they can threaten native species, damage river embankments and may contain harmful contaminants.

Indonesia needs 320 ethanol plants to support 50% gasoline-blending target

Indonesia would need 320 ethanol plants, each with a capacity of 60,000 kilolitres, to support a proposed nationwide E50 gasoline-blending programme, according to Higher Education, Science and Technology Minister Brian Yuliarto. The plan would require a major scale-up from current production and is intended to strengthen energy security, reduce reliance on energy imports and support domestic industry, with universities and businesses also expected to contribute.

DPR Deputy Commission III Chair Calls for Legal Action over Bullying of 13 Ciputat Junior High School Girls

Ahmad Sahroni, deputy chair of the DPR’s Commission III, has called for legal proceedings against senior pupils accused of bullying 13 girls at a junior high school in Ciputat. He also urged education authorities and law enforcement to review prevention efforts after the girls were allegedly made to drink a mixture of coffee, vinegar and garlic; three reportedly received hospital treatment for stomach pain.

Prabowo Allocates Rp200 Billion to Tackle Forest and Land Fires in South Sumatra

President Prabowo Subianto has channelled Rp200 billion in presidential assistance to South Sumatra for efforts to tackle forest and land fires, distributing the funds in two stages to the provincial government and 14 regencies and cities. Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni said spending must be transparent and directly related to firefighting, with the assistance supplementing funding from the disaster agency, the Forestry Ministry and regional budgets.

Malaysia Seeks Myanmar’s Explanation Over Detention of 300 Repatriated Refugees

Malaysia says it will seek an explanation from Myanmar over reports that around 300 refugees repatriated from Malaysia have been detained. The issue comes amid the return of 10,000 Myanmar refugees since January 2026 and concerns over the safety of refugees in their country of origin.

GPS-tracked stolen motorbike recovered as suspect escapes police chase

Police recovered a motorbike stolen in West Jakarta after tracking its GPS signal to Muara Baru fish auction market, but the suspect escaped during a pursuit. Police said the victim had also reported a similar incident five months earlier, and urged residents to secure vehicles and use additional locks.

Religious Affairs Ministry Urges Muslims to Pray for Rain Amid Wildfires and Drought

Indonesia’s Religious Affairs Ministry has issued guidance encouraging Muslims in drought- and wildfire-affected areas to perform the Istisqa prayer, while also taking practical steps to conserve water and protect the environment. The appeal comes as six provinces report 1,593 hotspots, 10,781 hectares burned in the past 24 hours and air quality ranging from hazardous to very unhealthy.

MSCI Concerns Prompt Indonesia to Strengthen Market Transparency

Indonesia is accelerating capital-market reforms after MSCI raised concerns about transparency and governance at the Indonesia Stock Exchange, including ownership disclosure and free-float information. Experts say the country has until June 2027 to address the concerns and strengthen investor confidence, which cannot be measured by gains in the Jakarta Composite Index alone.

Working Together Relentlessly, tvOne Promotes a Culture of Innovation for a Developed Indonesia

At the fifth 2026 Innovation for Nation-Building Awards, tvOne business director Maria Goretti Limi urged public- and private-sector recipients to keep working together and innovating to advance Indonesia’s competitiveness. She said the awards, now in their fifth series since launching in 2023, recognise practical solutions and aim to inspire transformation ahead of Indonesia’s Golden Indonesia 2045 vision.

Kevin Julio: This Is What Daniel Would Say If He Met Biru Laut Today

Kevin Julio imagines that Daniel Tumbuan would most miss the friendship and everyday moments he shared with Biru Laut, while Reza Rahadian says Laut would express gratitude for the support and affection of those close to him. The film adaptation of Leila S. Chudori’s novel, directed by Yosep Anggi Noen, is scheduled to open in cinemas on 29 October 2026, with its story of love, friendship and concern for the country aimed at resonating with young audiences.

Komnas HAM urges platform companies to share social security contributions

Indonesia’s National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) has urged digital platform companies to share the cost of social security contributions for gig workers, citing weak bargaining power and limited access to protection. Its study found workers often put in more than 12 hours a day amid commission deductions of 20–80 per cent, and recommends cost-sharing for work-accident and health insurance contributions, alongside more adaptable social security policies.

Wiraraja Partners with US Investors on US$500 Million Project, Creating 1,000 Jobs

Wiraraja GESEIP has agreed to an initial US$500 million investment with US firms Tynergy Technology Group and Essence Global, with the project expected to create around 1,000 jobs in Batam. The partnership will focus on silica sand downstream processing and advanced manufacturing, including AI-powered smart factories, with potential expansion into semiconductors and sodium-ion battery assembly.

Dictionary.com Names ‘Maxxing’ Its Word of the Year for 2026

Dictionary.com has named “maxxing” its 2026 Word of the Year, reflecting an online culture focused on optimising different aspects of life. The flexible slang term, popular among Generation Z and Generation Alpha, appears in contexts ranging from fitness and wellbeing to artificial intelligence and politics.

Police: Bobotoh Supporter Killed in Pakansari Machete Attack

Police say a 16-year-old Persib supporter from Bogor was fatally attacked with a machete while travelling home after a match at Pakansari Stadium. A suspect was arrested within 24 hours and faces charges carrying a maximum sentence of 15 years; investigators are still examining witness accounts and the circumstances of the attack.

Danantara Indonesia officially opens DTIIF 2026

Danantara Indonesia has opened the Danantara Technology Innovation Investment Forum (DTIIF) 2026 in Jakarta, running from 26 to 28 October. The event brings together more than 1,500 participants and aims to connect national industrial priorities with global technology, expertise and long-term capital, focusing on six sectors including energy, agriculture, semiconductors, infrastructure, digital technology and finance.

Seven Indonesian Crew Members Freed After 1.16 Tonnes of Ketamine Seized; Taiwanese National Sole Suspect

Indonesian police have released seven Indonesian crew members detained after a vessel carrying 1.16 tonnes of ketamine was intercepted off North Sumatra, citing a lack of evidence that they knew about the drugs. A Taiwanese crew manager has been named as the sole suspect, and investigators are tracing the ketamine’s origin.

Andra Soni Teams Up with Banten Prosecutors to Strengthen Rules on Overloaded Trucks

Banten Governor Andra Soni has enlisted the provincial High Prosecutor’s Office to help establish a sound legal framework for regulating trucks that exceed permitted dimensions and loads (ODOL). The cooperation is intended to support effective enforcement while ensuring regional policies comply with legislation and promote accountable government.

Law Minister Asks Legislation Directorate to Assess Implications of Military Courts Law Revision

Law Minister Supratman Andi Agtas has asked the Directorate General of Legislation to analyse the legal consequences of a Constitutional Court ruling requiring amendments to the Military Courts Law within two years. The ruling says the changes must clarify the jurisdiction of military and civilian courts over offences by soldiers, establish full integration of the military courts under a single judicial system, and address combat courts and procedural law.

Dhiraj Kelly, Smartin and UHAMKA Launch Investment Club

Dhiraj Kelly’s financial education platform, Smartin, has partnered with Universitas Muhammadiyah Prof. DR. HAMKA (UHAMKA) to establish an Investment Club for students. The programme will teach personal finance, capital-market instruments and investment risk, while helping protect young people from fraudulent schemes and encouraging informed financial independence.