Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Search Archive

Search Tips

You can use boolean operators in your search:

  • pugilist AND basketball - Both words must appear
  • jakarta OR surabaya - Either word can appear
  • jakarta NOT politics - Must have jakarta but not politics
  • +jakarta -politics - Must have jakarta, must not have politics
  • "exact phrase" - Search for exact phrase
  • basket* - Wildcard (matches basketball, basket, etc.)

Found 579,521 articles

Many KRL Trains Withdrawn from Service as Transport Ministry Presses INKA to Make Improvements

Indonesia’s Transport Ministry has urged state-owned trainmaker INKA to address technical problems after seven of its KRL commuter trainsets were withdrawn for inspection and maintenance. The withdrawals have affected Commuter Line services, and the ministry says safety and compliance with technical standards must take priority while KAI accelerates procurement of additional trains.

Vice-President Gibran calls for stronger support for Cilacap’s small businesses

Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming has called on Pertamina and its partners to strengthen mentoring for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in Cilacap, including help with business plans and market access. He praised local businesses for turning local and reused materials into higher-value products, saying this can support jobs, environmental goals and community empowerment.

Pigai urges companies to use PRISMA to boost competitiveness

Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai is urging Indonesian businesses to use the PRISMA assessment tool to embed human rights due diligence in their operations, arguing that stronger standards can improve corporate reputation and investor confidence. A proposed presidential regulation would formalise the agenda, with voluntary reporting initially and mandatory reporting planned from 2028, potentially for companies employing more than 2,000 people.

KPK to Summon Nusron Again Soon as Associates Become Suspects

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) plans to question Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning Minister Nusron Wahid again, as several people in his circle have been named suspects in an alleged bribery and gratification case involving land-use rights and the ministry. Investigators say they want to establish whether the alleged corruption was limited to the current suspects or involved instructions from others.

Danantara targets US$20–30 billion in investment over three years

Danantara Indonesia aims to invest US$20–30 billion in strategic industrial projects over the next two to three years, with more than 40 projects under development across sectors including energy, minerals, semiconductors, food and healthcare. The plans are part of a broader push to move Indonesian industry up the value chain, while national downstream investment reached Rp480 trillion in January–September 2026.

Leaked Letter Bars SOE Officials from Using Police Escorts and Playing Golf

Danantara has issued conduct guidelines for directors and commissioners of state-owned enterprises, covering corporate facilities, flights, police escorts and social media, and banning golf on working days. COO Dony Oskaria says the restrictions are part of a broader effort to improve professionalism and reshape workplace culture across SOEs.

Nine Motorcycles Towed for Illegal Pavement Parking near Gandaria City

South Jakarta’s transport agency impounded nine motorcycles parked illegally on pavements and roads near Gandaria City. The enforcement operation aims to restore pedestrian access to pavements and help keep traffic moving safely.

South Jakarta PKK steps up UP2K bazaar to boost household economies

South Jakarta’s Family Welfare Movement (TP PKK) is expanding its UP2K bazaar programme to promote small businesses and help families strengthen their incomes. City officials also urged PKK cadres to support household economic resilience and food security, including through urban farming, which has recently produced a shallot harvest.

KPK to Recall Fadia Arafiq’s Husband After Seizing BMW in Money-Laundering Probe

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) plans to reschedule questioning of Ashraff Abu, the husband of inactive Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq, after he failed to attend an earlier summons. The inquiry concerns alleged money laundering linked to a corruption case, and investigators seized an electric BMW from his Semarang home as they traced assets and evidence.

MAKI Reports KPK Leaders to Supervisory Board Over Failure to Act Firmly on Nusron Summons

Indonesia Corruption Watchdog MAKI has reported KPK leaders to the commission’s Supervisory Board, accusing them of being too hesitant to act after Minister Nusron Wahid failed to attend two summonses as a witness. The KPK says its investigators are analysing the absences and considering next steps in a bribery investigation involving land-use permits at the Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency, in which eight people have been named as suspects.

Danantara targets 16 waste-to-energy projects for tender

Danantara Indonesia aims to take 15–16 waste-to-energy projects to tender by the end of 2026, with a further eight targeted for collaboration in early 2027; tenders for projects in Jakarta and Tangerang are expected within two weeks. The programme includes facilities under construction in Bali and development in Bogor, and is intended to address urban waste while attracting private investment and delivering local social benefits.

Indonesia Has Cut Gas Exports to Singapore by Just 8%, Remaining Within Contract Terms

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia says Indonesia has reduced pipeline gas exports to Singapore by 31 million standard cubic feet per day (Mmscfd), or around 8% of the total, and remains above the contractually required minimum. He attributed the cut to well maintenance and rising domestic demand, while noting that Indonesia also exports 146 cargoes of liquefied natural gas.

Airline and Ferry Ticket Discounts for Christmas and New Year 2026/2027: Start Dates and Savings

The government has agreed on travel incentives for the 2026/2027 Christmas and New Year holiday period, including a 100% government-paid VAT incentive on domestic economy air tickets, a 30% airport-charge reduction and discounts on rail and sea travel. The measures are intended to ease year-end travel costs, with ticket bookings for some schemes already open and millions of passengers targeted.

Transmigration Ministry Hands 27 Land Titles to Residents in Central Maluku

The Transmigration Ministry has issued 27 land ownership certificates to transmigrant residents in Karlutu SP1 and SP2, Central Maluku, under its Trans Tuntas programme. The titles are intended to provide legal certainty, protect residents’ land rights and help resolve land disputes in transmigration areas.

Bulog Chief: 4.5 Million Tonnes of Rice Stock Ready for Christmas and New Year

Bulog says government rice reserves of 4.5 million tonnes are sufficient to meet demand through the 2026 Christmas and 2027 New Year period, with national supplies projected to last until July or August 2027. The government has also allocated an additional one million tonnes for its market-stabilisation programme and is accelerating rice aid for 33.2 million recipients to help maintain affordability and purchasing power.

Vice-President Wants Waste Cooking Oil from Waste Banks to Have Economic Value

Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka said the development of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) from used cooking oil should also empower local communities and connect their waste-bank collections to national industry. Pertamina’s Cilacap refinery produces an estimated 5,075 kilolitres of SAF annually through co-processing, highlighting the potential to combine cleaner energy production with local economic opportunities.

Tito Reports Progress in Sumatra’s Recovery and Urges Flood Mitigation

Home Affairs Minister Muhammad Tito Karnavian says infrastructure and essential services are recovering across Aceh, North Sumatra and West Sumatra, with displaced residents no longer living in tents. He has urged the Public Works Ministry to speed up work on sediment-filled rivers, warning that heavy rain could trigger further flooding and renewed damage to roads and bridges.

Two Sons of Hajj Minister Resign as Expert Advisers; Ministry Seeks Replacements

Barbarossa Muhammad Farros and Gibran Muhammad Fawwaz, sons of Hajj and Umrah Minister Mochamad Irfan Yusuf, have resigned from their expert adviser posts at the ministry. Deputy Minister Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak said the ministry would appoint replacements, noting that the two had initially helped when the Hajj administration was short of staff.

Minister Brian Reveals Prabowo’s Message to Researchers and Businesspeople

Higher Education, Science and Technology Minister Brian Yuliarto says President Prabowo wants research institutions and universities to work closely with industry so that research leads to products that can be brought to industrial scale. Prabowo also urged Danantara and international partners to connect long-term investment with research, train Indonesian workers and suppliers, and remove unnecessary administrative hurdles for credible projects.

Surabaya City Government renews WiraWiri feeder fleet

Surabaya has introduced 18 new minibuses on the Joyoboyo Intermodal Terminal–Lakarsantri route to meet rising passenger demand and improve public transport operations. The new vehicles can carry up to 24 passengers, replacing 10-seat Gran Max vehicles; one additional minibus will be kept as a reserve.

Tito Calls for Faster River Dredging in Sumatra to Prevent Further Flooding

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian has urged the Public Works Ministry to speed up work on 137 sediment-choked rivers across Aceh, North Sumatra and West Sumatra, warning that heavy rain could trigger further flooding. Recovery has progressed, with no residents remaining in tent camps and most roads, bridges and basic services restored, but renewed damage and some outstanding repairs remain.

Culture Ministry directs arts and culture talent programme to generate economic value

Indonesia’s Culture Ministry is developing an integrated National Talent Management (MTN) ecosystem for arts and culture to help creative works reach markets and generate economic value. Officials say commercialisation must remain balanced with protecting cultural identity, with long-term collaboration and structured talent development supporting the Indonesia Emas 2045 vision.

BBMKG: Sea Waves off Southern Bali Forecast to Reach Four Metres

BBMKG Denpasar forecasts waves of up to four metres off southern Bali and in the southern Lombok Strait from 27 to 30 October 2026, with lower but still hazardous waves expected in several other sea lanes. The agency warned maritime operators and fishing-boat users to take precautions, as wind and wave conditions could threaten navigation safety.

Timeline: Man Brutally Murders His Unregistered Wife and Child in Madiun

Police say Dwi Bagus Martono killed his unregistered wife, Dini Hardiyanti, and her four-year-old child after an argument at a hotel in Madiun. Investigators allege he then mutilated their bodies to conceal the crime before fleeing to Jombang, where he was arrested; the case had begun with a missing-person report filed by the victims’ family.

Unisba Holds ICoMED 2026 to Discuss the Future of Mediation in an Era of Disruption

Universitas Islam Bandung hosted ICoMED 2026, bringing together legal academics, researchers and practitioners to discuss mediation, legal innovation and cross-border cooperation in dispute resolution. The conference drew 200 participants and featured research presentations, with selected papers set for publication in accredited journals and conference proceedings.

Bahlil Tells Singapore: Don’t Demand Respect If You Struggle to Show It

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia urged foreign partners, particularly fellow ASEAN countries, to respect Indonesia’s position and its gas supply arrangements. Indonesia has cut pipeline gas exports to Singapore by 31 million standard cubic feet per day, a reduction Bahlil said remains within the minimum limits set by contract, citing well maintenance and domestic demand.

AIGCC: Indonesia’s Power-Sector Transition Direction Has Global Implications

The Asia Investor Group on Climate Change says Indonesia’s power-sector transition will shape energy transitions across Southeast Asia and have global implications. It says the country has strong planning foundations, but investors need clearer policy alignment and project-level details, particularly as 73 per cent of the US$188 billion investment requirement in the 2025–2034 electricity plan is expected to come from private capital.

Maruarar: 2.4 Million Tiles from Majalengka SMEs Ready for Dispatch on 8 November

Housing and Settlements Minister Maruarar Sirait says 2.4 million SNI-certified roof tiles made by small businesses in Majalengka will be dispatched on 8 November 2026 using about 600 lorries. The shipment, supported by BRI and Bank Jabar, is intended for distribution across West Java and through centres in Central and East Java, including to support home-renovation needs.

Microsoft and Google Join Indonesian Researchers in Technology Projects

Arm, Microsoft, Google and Amazon Web Services are collaborating with Indonesian researchers and institutions on semiconductors, digital infrastructure, smart electricity grids and more efficient ships. Higher Education, Science and Technology Minister Brian Yuliarto said the partnerships are intended to strengthen technology-based industry and translate research into practical benefits, while supporting President Prabowo Subianto’s ambition for Indonesia to develop and manufacture its own technologies.

2027 Regional Budget Deficits May Exceed the Limit, Subject to Strict Finance Ministry Conditions

The Finance Ministry has set a 2.50% ceiling on regional budget deficits for 2027, while allowing local governments to exceed it with ministerial approval and stringent debt-capacity safeguards. Any approved borrowing must also preserve the national cumulative deficit and regional debt-financing ceiling of 0.18% of GDP, with certain long-term instruments requiring inter-ministerial review.

Fishing Boat Capsizes in Waves off Merak, Killing Two

A fishing boat carrying three people capsized after being struck by waves near Tempurung Island off Merak, Banten. Two fishermen died and one survived after being spotted and rescued by passengers and crew aboard the KMP SMS Sagita.

BCA: Export Potential for Supported SMEs at TEI 2026 Reaches Rp148.75 Billion

BCA estimates that 12 SMEs it supports could generate US$8.32 million (Rp148.75 billion) in export potential from their participation in Trade Expo Indonesia 2026, up 34.12 per cent on the previous year. The bank says the programme combines export-readiness training, buyer introductions and banking services to help small businesses convert trade-fair leads into international sales.

Residents Block Road Outside Woha Subdistrict Office in Bima Over Suspected Fraudulent Savings Scheme

Residents in Woha, Bima, blocked a road to protest the alleged mishandling of a fraudulent rotating savings scheme case in which dozens of people reportedly lost billions of rupiah. Police and military personnel later reopened the road, while police said the case had been reported to Bima Police.

BUMN Profits Rise as Danantara Speeds Up Streamlining

Combined net profit at Indonesian state-owned enterprises rose 18.4% to Rp214.9 trillion in January–August 2026, as Danantara credited a sweeping review of business models for improved performance. The investment agency plans to reduce its portfolio from 1,074 companies to fewer than 200 through consolidation, restructuring, divestment and liquidation, while preparing more than 40 strategic projects to strengthen domestic industry and technology.

Dian Sastrowardoyo says she has admired Kinan since reading ‘Laut Bercerita’

Actress Dian Sastrowardoyo says she was drawn to Kasih Kinanti, or Kinan, when she first read Leila S Chudori’s novel ‘Laut Bercerita’ in 2017. She says Kinan’s strategic leadership in the student movement, and her refusal to seek special treatment on the basis of gender, remain relevant to the film adaptation due in 2026.

Gerindra Legislators Push for Inter-Village Road in Bogor Regency

Gerindra legislators Marlyn Maisarah and Heri Gunawan are backing construction of a 477-metre road linking Ciasihan and Ciasmara villages in Bogor Regency through the PISEW programme. They say the project should improve access to education, farming, trade and tourism, while creating local jobs and directing spending to nearby businesses.

State-Owned Enterprises’ Profits Rise as Danantara Accelerates Restructuring

Combined net profit at Indonesian state-owned enterprises rose 18.4% to Rp214.9 trillion in January–August 2026, while return on equity increased to 8%. Danantara is accelerating a broad overhaul—consolidating, restructuring, divesting or closing hundreds of companies—and preparing more than 40 strategic projects intended to build domestic industrial and technological capacity.

Central Java’s Investment Realisation Reaches Rp72.54 Trillion

Central Java recorded Rp72.54 trillion in investment realisation from January to September 2026, up 9.7% year on year and equivalent to 73.21% of its official annual target. The investments generated 340,334 jobs, while the provincial government plans to expand its industrial estate network to support further investment.

Bahlil Says Halmahera Nuclear Power Plant Plans Being Studied with Russia

Indonesia is assessing a possible nuclear power plant in Halmahera with Russia, while also considering sites in Kalimantan, Sumatra and the Riau Islands. Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia said no decisions have been made on locations, capacity, technology or investment, and that feasibility studies and domestic electricity needs will guide the plans.

Danantara Showcases 40 Major Projects, from AI to a National E-commerce Platform

Danantara is working on more than 40 projects across sectors including energy, food, healthcare, telecommunications, defence and advanced materials. The portfolio ranges from 100-gigawatt solar development and coal-to-DME conversion to sovereign AI, a national e-commerce platform and semiconductor production.

Indonesian Air Force airlifts 4.6 tonnes of dry ice for rainmaking

The Indonesian Air Force used two Hercules aircraft to deliver 4.6 tonnes of dry ice to Banjarmasin and Palembang for a weather-modification operation intended to disperse haze from forest and land fires. The operation forms part of a joint effort with civilian emergency agencies to suppress fires and improve regional air quality.

Revision of Hajj Financial Management Law a Chance to Strengthen BPKH

Indonesia’s National Hajj Commission says revisions to the 2014 Hajj Financial Management Law should enable the Hajj Financial Management Agency (BPKH) to improve returns on the roughly Rp185 trillion in pilgrims’ funds while maintaining prudent risk controls. It also calls for stronger institutional accountability, including reconsidering how BPKH reports to the President, as government and lawmakers seek more diversified investments and higher returns for pilgrims.

Jepara Finswimmer Dies; Central Java Deputy Governor Calls for Porprov Review

Syabilla, a Jepara athlete who had won two gold medals, died during the 3,000-metre open-water finswimming event at the Central Java Provincial Sports Week (Porprov). Deputy Governor Taj Yasin said organisers must review athlete safety, particularly for events held in open water, while her family has also called for measures to prevent a similar tragedy.

Viral Cakung Drain Choked with Rubbish; Jakarta Environment Agency Removes 8 Cubic Metres

Jakarta’s Environment Agency says crews removed about eight cubic metres of rubbish from Cakung Drain in North Jakarta after images of the polluted waterway went viral. The agency attributes the accumulation to rainfall and tidal flows, while noting that fishing boats obstructed clean-up efforts, and urged residents not to dump waste into waterways.

Danantara Says Transformation Boosted SOE Profits by 18.4%

Danantara COO Dony Oskaria said the transformation of state-owned enterprises (SOEs) helped lift their combined net profit by 18.4% year on year to Rp214.9 trillion in January–August 2026. He said stronger profitability and governance are important to Danantara’s ability to fund strategic investment, while several major SOEs recorded particularly sharp profit growth.

West Java Governor KDM Urges Completion of CBL River Normalisation This Year

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has called for the remaining one kilometre of normalisation work on the 16-kilometre Cikarang Bekasi Laut (CBL) River to be completed this year, with Bekasi Regency expected to cover the estimated Rp2 billion shortfall. The provincial and regency governments also plan to address bridges obstructing water flow and heavy sedimentation in the Kali Mati, as part of efforts to reduce recurring flood risks and restore irrigation channels.

Transport Ministry Receives KAI Proposal to Import Used KRL Trains, but Approval Is Pending

The Transport Ministry is evaluating KAI’s proposal to import second-hand electric multiple units from Japan, with approval on hold until the operator submits final technical specifications. The proposal comes as commuter ridership has risen faster than expected and ageing trains threaten to worsen fleet shortages, while KAI says used trains would serve as a temporary bridge as domestic production expands.

Luobing Theory International Congress Overseas Forum Opens in Singapore, Advancing the Globalisation of Traditional Chinese Medicine

The 22nd Luobing Theory International Congress overseas forum has opened in Singapore, bringing together international researchers to exchange findings and strengthen cooperation on traditional Chinese medicine. Organisers highlighted advances in research, standardisation and internationalisation, alongside the launch of English-language materials intended to support wider global engagement.

Yunita Siregar discusses her role in ‘Laut Bercerita’

Yunita Siregar says she plays Asmara Jati, the rational and resilient younger sister of a missing student activist, in the upcoming film ‘Laut Bercerita’. Adapted from Leila S. Chudori’s novel, the film is scheduled to open in cinemas on 29 October 2026.

E50 Programme Expected to Require 320 Ethanol Plants

Indonesia’s E50 petrol-blending programme could create demand for 320 new ethanol plants, each with a capacity of 60,000 kilolitres, according to Higher Education, Science and Technology Minister Brian Yuliarto. He said ethanol production, alongside the E50 and B50 programmes, could redirect energy-import spending towards domestic industry and strengthen energy independence, provided research, industry and government work together.

Jakarta and Bekasi Extend Bantargebang Waste Processing Site Agreement for Five Years

Jakarta and Bekasi have renewed their agreement on managing the Bantargebang Integrated Waste Processing Site for a further five years, covering environmental, health, social and public infrastructure programmes. Jakarta says source-level sorting has already cut waste deliveries to the site by around 500 tonnes a day, while the revised agreement also sets out compensation arrangements and acknowledges the challenge of dealing with years of accumulated waste.

Former Gowa Regent Held for 20 Days at South Sulawesi Police Detention Centre

Former Gowa Regent Sitti Husniah Talenrang has been detained for 20 days while investigators pursue allegations of extortion, gratification and money laundering linked to permit processing in Gowa in 2025–2026. Police say her legal and health-care rights will be upheld, and the case is being handled jointly by national and regional investigators.

Indonesian Benzoin Resin in High Demand from China to France—but What Is It Used For?

Indonesia exported more than 43,000 tonnes of benzoin resin in 2024, worth about US$52 million, with India the largest buyer and China, France and Italy among its key markets. Used in perfumes, food, medicine and religious rituals, the resin has growing commercial potential, prompting Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming to call for further processing in Indonesia.

BPBD Lampung: Latest Forest Fire in TNWK Is Far from Elephant Enclosure

Lampung’s Regional Disaster Management Agency says the latest fire hotspot in Way Kambas National Park is about 14 kilometres from the Elephant Training Centre, and is separate from fires already being handled by response teams. The agency says the reported fire is near the boundary with PT GGP PG4 and that it is coordinating with the park authority on prevention and response measures.

Police Hunt Suspects in Two Machete Assaults in Mataram

Police in Mataram are investigating two separate sharp-weapon assaults reported in the early hours of Sunday, with one victim in each incident requiring hospital treatment. Investigators are gathering witness statements and evidence to identify those responsible, and have urged the public to remain calm while the cases are handled.

Hajj Financial Management Bill Must Address Sustainability and Fairness of Hajj Funds

The National Hajj Commission says the revision of Indonesia’s Hajj Financial Management Law should ensure that returns on hajj funds are distributed sustainably and more fairly between pilgrims departing now and those waiting. It proposes proportionate, means-sensitive subsidies and urges the Hajj Financial Management Agency (BPKH) to manage a wider pool of funds, including final hajj payments.

AI Data Centre in Batang Under Development, with a Capacity of 240 Megawatts

Plans for an AI data centre at the Batang Integrated Industrial Estate remain under development and are still being assessed; the facility is not yet operational. Central Java officials say its planned capacity is 240 megawatts, with further details expected from the Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs and the Batang Special Economic Zone in November.

Besides McLaren, Ciledug Vehicle Tax Office Finds 39 Luxury Cars in Arrears

The Ciledug Vehicle Tax Office says 39 luxury cars in its area have outstanding vehicle tax, including Ferraris, Lamborghinis, Lexus models and McLarens. Seven owners have paid, eight vehicles have been blocked, one has been transferred out of the area and 23 remain unpaid, amid scrutiny following a case in which a mechanic was wrongly billed for a McLaren he did not own.

Authentication Key to Building Trust in the Pre-Owned Watch Market

Flecto.id says authentication, transparent payments and clear shipping arrangements are essential to building consumer confidence in high-value pre-owned watch transactions. The Indonesian marketplace reports facilitating more than 1,200 transactions and working with over 200 verified sellers, while offering sales, purchase and pawning services; it cautions that these internal figures do not represent the entire market.

For Safety, Deputy Hajj Minister Urges Umrah Pilgrims to Choose Direct Flights to Saudi Arabia

Deputy Hajj and Umrah Minister Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak has urged Indonesian Umrah pilgrims and travel operators to favour direct flights to Jeddah or Madinah, citing safety amid tensions in the Middle East. He also says redirecting an estimated 70,000 passengers who currently transit through Malaysia and Singapore to Indonesian airlines could support the national aviation industry, provided airlines improve service and pricing.

Technology Experts Gather as Danantara Seeks to Boost Indonesia’s Technology Industry

Danantara’s three-day Technology Innovation Investment Forum 2026 has attracted around 1,500 registrants and is expected to produce agreements linking state-owned enterprises, universities and companies. The agency is targeting US$20–30 billion in investment over the next two to three years, with potential for more, across five priority sectors as it seeks to move Indonesia from technology adoption towards innovation and industrial leadership.

On Gibran’s Diploma Inquiry, Sahroni Says NasDem Will Follow Procedure

NasDem faction deputy chairman Ahmad Sahroni said the party would follow parliamentary procedures regarding a proposed House of Representatives inquiry into Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s junior secondary school diploma. He said no further steps had yet been taken.

Japan’s Anime Industry Faces a Wage Gap for Workers

Japan’s anime industry is grappling with pay disparities and difficult working conditions as global demand for animation grows, according to Tokyo International Film Festival programme adviser Ryota Fujitsu. He says studios that can invest in production and pay creative staff fairly are better placed to succeed, while original films face funding challenges amid limited public support and strong competition from franchise-based projects.

Communications Minister: 45% of Children Have Experienced Cyberbullying

Communications and Digital Affairs Minister Meutya Hafid said cyberbullying and other online threats to children are accelerating, citing UNICEF research that found 45% of Indonesian children had experienced cyberbullying. She also highlighted gaps in parental confidence and use of parental controls, and said the government is assessing whether Meta’s Teen Accounts are suitable for children under 16.

Prabowo Calls Yusril to Discuss Redefining Corruption

President Prabowo Subianto summoned Coordinating Minister Yusril Ihza Mahendra to discuss possible revisions to Indonesia’s anti-corruption law and the definition of corruption. Yusril said any revision should align with the UN Convention against Corruption and broaden the range of offences covered, while the National Economic Council has clarified that its recommendations would retain state financial losses as a corruption offence.

Danantara to Invest Rp200 Trillion Next Year: Where Will the Money Come From?

Danantara plans to allocate Rp200 trillion (about US$12 billion) for investment next year, with most of the funding expected to come from dividends generated by state-owned enterprises under its management. Commercial investments are likely to receive 65–70% of the allocation, while the amount set aside for long-term strategic government projects is still being determined as Danantara prepares its 2027 corporate budget.

Indonesian Team at ASEAN–China Forum: UNDIP Lecturer Presents Barelang’s Potential

A Diponegoro University lecturer and Indonesia’s Ministry of Transmigration team presented Barelang’s investment potential at an ASEAN–China seminar in Beijing and Kunming. The presentation highlighted five priority sectors and policy support, while emphasising that investment should generate local jobs, improve livelihoods and protect the coastal environment.

Missing One Prayer Is Like Losing One’s Family and Wealth

A religious teaching cited in the article urges Muslims not to neglect obligatory prayers for family or financial pursuits. It recounts sayings attributed to the Prophet Muhammad that compare missing a prayer to losing one’s family and possessions, and warn of the spiritual consequences of abandoning prayer.

Indonesia says gas export cuts to Singapore are within contractual limits and pledges to honour obligations

Indonesia says its 8 per cent reduction in gas exports to Singapore remains within contractual limits, with supplies redirected to meet domestic electricity demand. Singapore says it expects contracts to be honoured, but the cut represents less than 2 per cent of its daily gas demand; Indonesia is also considering nuclear power as it seeks to address energy supply pressures.

KKP Partners with PLN to Strengthen Electricity Infrastructure in KNMP Areas

Indonesia’s Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) has partnered with state utility PLN to provide electricity, digital services and green infrastructure in the Red and White Fishermen’s Villages (KNMP). The agreement includes joint technical surveys and data-sharing, with power intended to support facilities such as cold storage, ice plants and fish markets across the programme’s expanding network.

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Ribka Presents Cultural Figure Award at PIKI Awards 2026

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Ribka Haluk presented the PIKI Awards 2026 Cultural Figure award to theologian, philologist and historian Bambang Noorsena, who was represented at the ceremony because he was abroad. The event recognised figures contributing to culture, tolerance, research, health, education and other fields, with organisers describing the awards as a way to highlight public role models and encourage inclusive civic engagement.

Law Ministry says 700,000 businesses remain blocked for failing to report beneficial ownership

Indonesia’s Law Ministry says around 700,000 businesses and foundations are still blocked because they have not disclosed their beneficial owners, down from nearly two million entities last year. The ministry says the disclosures are essential for transparency and law enforcement, and blocked entities cannot access banking services; it may classify those that remain inactive as no longer operating.

TGUK Leaves IDX Special Monitoring Board After Foreign Change of Control

The Indonesia Stock Exchange has removed beverage-chain operator PT Platinum Wahab Nusantara (TGUK) from its special monitoring board, effective 27 October 2026, and placed it on the development board. The move follows Visionary Capital Global’s acquisition of a 56.84% voting stake, making it TGUK’s new controlling shareholder, while the former controller’s stake fell to 12.49%.

Health Ministry Targets 3,000 Cataract Operations per Million People

Indonesia’s Health Ministry aims to raise the annual cataract surgery rate to at least 3,000 procedures per million BPJS Health members, while improving early detection and access to eye specialists. The initiative is part of a national vision-health roadmap addressing cataracts and a broader rise in conditions that can cause visual impairment and blindness.

Eko Suwanto Urges Yogyakarta Regional Government to Conduct Environmental Audit Amid Natural Disasters

Yogyakarta regional legislator Eko Suwanto has urged provincial and local governments to carry out a comprehensive environmental audit and strengthen measures to reduce disaster risks linked to hydrometeorological anomalies and climate change. He highlighted the loss of farmland, weak watershed management and potentially unsafe development, and proposed declaring 2027 the ‘Year of Planting’.

Bappenas Says Free Nutritious Meals Programme Is Part of Social Infrastructure

Bappenas says the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme is part of social infrastructure needed to improve the quality of Indonesia’s human resources. Minister Rachmat Pambudy argued that nutrition, health and education—including STEM skills—must complement physical, economic and digital infrastructure to support sustainable growth and enable the country to add value to its natural resources.

4th Liangzhu Forum Opens in Hangzhou to Foster Dialogue on Global Cultural Heritage

The fourth Liangzhu Forum opened in Hangzhou, bringing together hundreds of Chinese and international guests to discuss cultural heritage protection and exchange. Organisers say the forum has become a permanent national-level platform, while Liangzhu’s approach seeks to combine heritage conservation with local development and community benefits.

Buying an iPhone Duo in Singapore or Malaysia vs Indonesia: The Cost Breakdown

Although iPhone Duo sticker prices appear lower in Singapore and Malaysia, customs duties and VAT make every model cheaper to buy in Indonesia, according to the article’s calculations. Travellers bringing a phone into Indonesia must register its IMEI, and imported units will not have an official Indonesian warranty.

Hajj Ministry Asks Umrah Travel Operators to Avoid Transit Stops in Singapore and Malaysia

Indonesia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has asked Umrah travel operators to temporarily avoid itineraries transiting through Singapore and Malaysia, saying the move could strengthen the domestic aviation sector and national economy. Deputy Minister Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak said about 70,000 Indonesian pilgrims transit through the two countries and urged local airlines to improve service and offer competitive fares; he added that Saudi Arabia says Umrah remains safe amid regional tensions.

BRI Updates Credit Card Instalment Programme, with Interest from 0% and a Minimum Transaction of Rp100,000

BRI has updated its credit card instalment programme, allowing eligible retail purchases of at least Rp100,000 to be converted into instalments, with interest starting at 0% and repayment terms of up to 36 months. The scheme, available through BRI Contact and BRImo, runs from 24 July to 31 December 2026, with rates and terms varying by card type, transaction amount and tenure.

UK Must Be Ready for War Within 1,000 Days, Defence Minister Says

UK Defence Minister Wes Streeting says Britain and its NATO allies have just over three years to prepare for the possibility that hostile states could be capable of launching an attack by 2030. His warning accompanies a government campaign urging households to keep three days’ worth of emergency supplies, amid concerns over cyber threats and other risks to critical infrastructure.

Fishermen Complain of Diesel Shortages During Vice-President Gibran’s Visit to Cilacap

Fishermen in Cilacap told Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka that supplies of subsidised diesel for boats of up to 30 gross tonnes remain inadequate. Gibran promised to investigate supply and administrative obstacles, and instructed officials to ensure allocations reach eligible fishermen while helping them obtain the required purchase recommendations.

Today’s Five Most-Read International Stories

The roundup covers the arrest of three suspects in a deadly attack on a Greek Orthodox church in Jordan, Brazil’s disputed presidential election result and Donald Trump’s endorsement of Benjamin Netanyahu ahead of Israel’s election. It also reports Netanyahu’s warning about possible Iranian interference and Saudi air strikes on Houthi missile sites after an attack on Riyadh airport.

Indonesia says gas export cuts to Singapore comply with contracts

Indonesia says a 31 MMBTUD reduction in pipeline gas deliveries to Singapore is within the flexibility allowed under long-term contracts, which set minimum supply floors of 91–92 per cent. The government cites scheduled maintenance and rising domestic demand, while stressing that LNG cargo commitments to Singapore remain separate and are being fulfilled.

LK2 FHUI: Illicit Enrichment Must Respect the Presumption of Innocence

A University of Indonesia law group has urged lawmakers to ensure that any illicit-enrichment provisions in the Asset Forfeiture Bill uphold the presumption of innocence, noting that the UN Convention against Corruption does not explicitly require such provisions. The House of Representatives’ Commission III has brought forward public hearings during the recess as it works towards completing the bill by 15 December 2026.

Customs Identifies Five Indonesian Airports as Routes in Global Illegal Gold Trade

Indonesia’s Directorate General of Customs and Excise says five airports have been used to smuggle gold abroad, with 25.88 kilograms worth Rp61.95 billion seized. The cases involved mostly Chinese and Indian nationals and highlight tighter enforcement against illegal exports of natural resources.

Palm Oil Downstreaming Expands Business Opportunities for MSMEs

Palm oil downstreaming can help micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) develop higher-value products, using derivatives in food, crafts, cosmetics and personal care. Industry speakers highlighted the export potential of oleochemicals and the use of by-products, while a Malang snack producer demonstrated how local businesses can scale production and reach wider markets.

13 Motorcycles Towed for Illegal Parking in South Jakarta; Owners Issued Warning Letters

South Jakarta’s Transport Sub-Department towed 13 motorcycles parked illegally near Gandaria City and Blok M Square following public complaints. Owners can retrieve their vehicles after verification and administrative processing, and must sign a warning letter pledging not to repeat the offence.

Immigration Identifies Two French Nationals in Bali Pornography Video

Immigration officials have identified two French nationals suspected of appearing in a pornographic video linked to Karangasem, Bali; both left Indonesia in January, months before the footage was uploaded. Their names have been flagged as persons of interest so they can be detected if they attempt to re-enter, while Bali Governor Wayan Koster plans to discuss the case with foreign consuls, stressing that any violations must be handled under the law.

To Cut Poverty, Eko Suwanto Urges DIY Local Governments to Integrate Their Budgets

Yogyakarta Regional House of Representatives Commission A Chair Eko Suwanto has urged provincial, regency and city governments, together with village administrations, to align their budgets around poverty reduction and job creation. His priorities also include helping local businesses go digital, building integrated digital payment services and ensuring investment generates jobs for local people.

KAI Jakarta Opens Up Public Spaces to Community Activities

KAI’s Jakarta regional division says it is open to community partnerships and beneficial activities in station public spaces, provided safety, order, cleanliness and railway operations are protected. The announcement accompanies the “Saling Sangga” art installation exhibition at Manggarai Station Park, which includes activities for children and highlights solidarity and cooperation.

Amid Nepotism Allegations, Two Children of Hajj Minister Resign as Expert Staff

The two sons of Hajj and Umrah Minister Mochamad Irfan Yusuf have formally resigned from expert staff positions at the newly established ministry after their appointments drew public criticism and allegations of nepotism. Deputy Minister Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak said the resignations were intended to protect the ministry’s integrity, while explaining that the sons had initially volunteered during the Hajj agency’s early formation, when staffing was limited.

Customs Foils Illegal Export of 25.88kg of Gold Worth Rp61.95bn

Indonesia’s Customs and Excise agency says it intercepted attempts to illegally export 25.88kg of gold, valued at Rp61.95 billion, through five international airports during October 2026. The largest seizure was at Soekarno-Hatta, where nine Indian and Chinese nationals were named as suspects; the agency has urged travellers to ensure they have the required customs declarations and permits.

Video: Karawang Seeks to Boost the Economy by Helping MSMEs Move Up the Value Chain and Strengthening Skills

Karawang Regency says its open unemployment rate has fallen to 7%, supported by industrial estates employing about 390,000 formal-sector workers and programmes to develop small businesses. The local government is also providing MSMEs with mentoring, retail marketing partnerships and Rp11 billion in goods, while investing in transport links, education and healthcare to support the regional economy and workforce.

Indonesia Has Abundant Geothermal Resources, So Why Is Only 11.6% Being Utilised?

Indonesia has an estimated 24 gigawatts of geothermal potential, but installed geothermal power capacity is only 2,776 megawatts, or 11.6% of that total. An energy economist says investment is being held back by tariff economics, inadequate supporting infrastructure and limited fiscal incentives, even as the government’s electricity plan targets a 5.2GW increase in geothermal capacity by 2034.

Nine Types of People Allah SWT Does Not Love, According to the Quran

The article outlines Quranic warnings against people who overstep limits and those who betray others and persist in sin. It says such conduct can harm individuals and society, and urges people to uphold good character in daily life.

Israel Closes All West Bank Land Crossings During Election

Israel says it will close all land crossings between Israel and the West Bank and bar Palestinian workers from entering Israeli communities during the 27 October 2026 parliamentary election. The measure comes amid an ongoing military operation near Hebron following an attack that killed two Israeli soldiers, with reported evacuations and displacement of Palestinian residents.

Danantara to Reinvest $12 Billion in State-Owned Enterprise Dividends

Indonesia’s sovereign investment fund Danantara plans to reinvest Rp 200 trillion (about $12 billion) in dividends from state-owned enterprises through its investment management arm. The move accompanies a major restructuring programme—including closing 364 companies and reducing the portfolio from 1,074 firms to 250—as Danantara targets Rp 360 trillion in net profit this year.

Kadin backs stronger inclusive, human rights-based business practices

Kadin Indonesia chief Anindya Bakrie has backed wider adoption of human rights principles and due diligence in business, saying these can support inclusive growth and build trust with international partners. Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai said the government is prioritising education before moving towards broader mandatory reporting, which is targeted to begin in 2028.

Indonesia Stock Exchange Toughens Oversight of Price Manipulation

The Indonesia Stock Exchange plans to replace its broad Unusual Market Activity alerts with targeted, technology-driven surveillance and enforcement against suspected price manipulation. The measures include public notices when investigations begin and possible restrictions or suspensions of accounts under scrutiny, with exchange members to be briefed before the system is formally introduced.

Summoned to the Palace, Yusril Pushes for Under-Invoicing to Be Classed as Corruption

Coordinating Minister Yusril Ihza Mahendra says he will brief President Prabowo Subianto on proposals to broaden Indonesia’s legal definition of corruption, including under-invoicing and tax fraud. The debate is linked to a possible revision of the Corruption Eradication Law and to distinguishing corruption from state business losses, with lawmakers citing the UN Convention against Corruption as a reference.

Rupiah Falls to Rp 18,100; Destry Says It Depends on Supply and Demand

The rupiah weakened past Rp 18,100 per US dollar, closing at Rp 18,135, while Bank Indonesia Governor Destry Damayanti said the central bank would remain active in the market and monitor the currency’s movements. An Airlangga University economist said the pressure reflects structural factors, including global dynamics, US Treasury yields and dollar strength, which can draw capital away from domestic markets towards safe-haven assets.

Customs Foils Illegal Export of 25.88kg of Gold at Five Airports

Indonesia’s Directorate General of Customs and Excise foiled attempts to export a total of 25.88kg of gold, valued at Rp61.95 billion, through five airports during October 2026. The seizures highlight ongoing efforts to prevent illegal gold shipments through the country’s air transport network.

South Jakarta Transport Agency removes 13 illegally parked motorbikes in Gandaria City and Melawai

South Jakarta’s Transport Agency removed 13 motorbikes parked illegally near Gandaria City and on Jalan Melawai after receiving complaints through the JAKI app. The operation involved 22 personnel and forms part of efforts to improve parking compliance and keep traffic moving; owners must verify their vehicle documents and complete the required administration to retrieve their vehicles.

Stressed, ‘Case Mafia’ Zarof Ricar Withdraws Two Statements in Police Interview Record

Former Supreme Court official Zarof Ricar told a Jakarta corruption court that he was stressed during questioning and withdrew two statements from his police interview record. He said an Alphard seized in the case belonged to his son, and that he had falsely claimed money linked to an event for the Indonesian National Youth Committee (KNPI) was his in order to protect his child. Prosecutors are pursuing a money-laundering case against film producer Agung Winarno, alleging that assets derived from Zarof’s corruption were concealed through a film production and other means.

Public Works Ministry: Phase II of Sekolah Rakyat construction to employ 97,000 workers

The Public Works Ministry says construction of Phase II of the Sekolah Rakyat programme across 100 sites in 32 provinces is employing 97,000 people, mostly recruited from nearby communities. The government presents the project as both an investment in modern education for disadvantaged communities and a source of local jobs, with Army territorial development units helping accelerate work in some remote areas.

Chinese and Indian Nationals Caught by Customs over Alleged Attempt to Smuggle Rp61bn of Indonesian Gold Abroad

Indonesia’s Directorate General of Customs and Excise says it has seized 25.88kg of gold, valued at an estimated Rp61bn, in a series of attempted smuggling operations between early October and 26 October 2026. The cases, involving mostly Chinese and Indian nationals travelling through several major airports, are being investigated as authorities seek to identify the wider networks and methods involved.

Ahead of Christmas and New Year, Tito Urges Social Assistance and Market Operations to Boost Purchasing Power

Home Affairs Minister Muhammad Tito Karnavian has called for continued social assistance and targeted market operations to protect food-price stability and household purchasing power ahead of Christmas 2026 and New Year 2027. He also urged consideration of subsidies for electricity, fuel and air travel, and asked airlines to keep fares reasonable as year-end travel demand rises.

Yusril Summoned by Prabowo to the Palace to Prepare Material on the Definition of Corruption

Coordinating Minister Yusril Ihza Mahendra said he would bring proposals on clarifying and expanding the legal definition of corruption to a meeting with President Prabowo Subianto. The discussion may address economic harms such as under-invoicing mineral exports and align Indonesia’s anti-corruption laws with the UN Convention Against Corruption, with Yusril stressing that reform is intended to strengthen enforcement rather than ease penalties.

State Budget Accounts for Only 15% of GDP; Economy Needs Everyone’s Contribution, Finance Minister Says

Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara said the state budget accounts for only 14–15% of Indonesia’s GDP, with households and businesses generating most economic activity through consumption, investment and exports. He called for coordinated contributions from all economic actors, alongside effective state spending, and described state investment agency Danantara as a partner to the budget in advancing national development.

Bappenas Urges Asian Collaboration to Build a Semiconductor Ecosystem

Bappenas chief Rachmat Pambudy has called for Asian countries to work together to develop a semiconductor industry ecosystem, arguing that cooperation can support shared growth and help Indonesia escape the middle-income trap. He said Indonesia must move beyond assembly by investing in STEM education, research and innovation, and ensuring technology is widely applied to create greater value from its resources.

Ahead of Christmas and New Year, Tito Calls for Food Price Controls Through Welfare Aid and Market Operations

Home Affairs Minister Muhammad Tito Karnavian has urged continued social assistance and targeted market operations to protect food price stability ahead of Christmas 2026 and New Year 2027, when demand and mobility are expected to rise. He also called for consideration of subsidies for electricity, fuel and air transport, and asked airlines to keep fares reasonable to limit inflationary pressures.

BPR Kertaraharja Pays Rp78 Billion Dividend to Bandung Regency

BPR Kertaraharja has paid a Rp78 billion dividend to the Bandung Regency Government, meeting its full 2026 target and contributing to the region’s own-source revenue. The regent said dividends from regional-owned enterprises help strengthen fiscal capacity for development and public services, while urging local agencies to improve tax and levy collection.

Indonesia pushes to fast-track MoU with Portugal to expand job opportunities for migrant workers

Indonesia is seeking to conclude an agreement with Portugal by the end of November 2026 to widen employment opportunities for Indonesian migrant workers while strengthening safeguards. The proposed MoU would cover protections from recruitment through return, with potential placements extending beyond hospitality into sectors including fisheries, tourism, construction, agriculture and healthcare.

Co-operatives Minister supports development of coffee in Highland Papua

Co-operatives Minister Ferry Juliantono says the government will support efforts to improve the quality and marketing of coffee from Highland Papua, helping it compete in global markets. He also urged Jayawijaya’s local government to promote sector-specific co-operatives, which could receive training, product-quality support and access to financing.

To Curb Inflation, Home Affairs Ministry Urges Local Governments to Check Commodity Prices Regularly

The Home Affairs Ministry has urged local governments to monitor commodity prices in person and step up market operations as food prices rise in some areas. Officials are particularly concerned about red chilli prices ahead of year-end demand, when seasonal celebrations and holidays can add to inflationary pressure.

Indonesia Has More Than 100 Untapped Oil and Gas Basins, Offering Investor Opportunities

SKK Migas says Indonesia’s 128 sedimentary basins offer opportunities for investors, although only 20 are currently producing. The agency highlighted 43 discoveries in explored basins and 65 frontier basins, alongside efforts to improve fiscal terms, licensing transparency and access to exploration data to turn resources into commercial production.

Luxeed to Launch Six New Energy Vehicles on the Global Market

Chery’s premium Luxeed brand plans to take six new-energy vehicles to international markets, beginning with the LLounge minivan and Stormax SUV, with Australia among the reported destinations. The article outlines the Chinese-market specifications and prices of the two models, which are offered with different electric and extended-range powertrain configurations.

Sensory Land Kids Registers 2,100 Children in Its First Year

Jakarta-based child development clinic Sensory Land Kids says 2,100 children registered for its services during its first year. The clinic combines evidence-based, multidisciplinary support for children with developmental needs with outdoor nature-based activities, and says it plans to strengthen clinical quality and family involvement.

Human Rights Minister urges companies to adopt human rights-based business principles

Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai says the government has submitted a more comprehensive presidential regulation on business and human rights for the President’s signature, linking it to Indonesia’s efforts to meet OECD membership requirements. The government plans to begin with education and voluntary company reporting, with mandatory reporting potentially applying from 2028 to firms with more than 2,000 employees; sanctions are not an immediate priority.

One Hotspot Remains in Mount Lawu Fire; Ahmad Luthfi Calls for Thorough Search

Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi has called for a comprehensive sweep of the Mount Lawu wildfire area after a new hotspot was detected, and plans to deploy a National Disaster Mitigation Agency helicopter for another water-bombing sortie. Authorities have used 68,000 litres of water in 34 water-bombing operations, while officials are also urging fire-prevention measures and improved water infrastructure.

Customs Says Gold-Smuggling Methods Are Becoming More Brazen, with Gold Hidden Inside the Body

Indonesia’s Directorate General of Customs and Excise says illegal gold-export methods are becoming more varied, including attempts to conceal gold powder inside people’s bodies. October operations at airports in Yogyakarta, Surabaya and Soekarno-Hatta uncovered gold-bearing material and powder worth billions of rupiah, prompting Customs to call for stronger cooperation with airport authorities and police.

BNPB Urges Aceh and North Sumatra to Prepare for Cyclone Threat in Bay of Bengal

Indonesia’s National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has warned people in Aceh and North Sumatra that Tropical Cyclone Seed 98B in the Bay of Bengal could affect local weather over the coming week. It may bring heavy rain, thunderstorms and strong winds, prompting advice to secure loose objects, avoid hazardous shelter and check weather and sea conditions before going out to sea; residents in hilly areas are also urged to watch for landslides.

Police Raid Kampung Ambon Again, Arresting Seven

Jakarta police arrested seven people during a raid on the Kampung Ambon area of West Jakarta, following public reports of suspected drug trafficking. Six tested positive for drugs, while officers also seized synthetic tobacco and a range of weapons and other items.

BULOG Assures Rice Readiness Ahead of Christmas and New Year, with 4.5 Million Tonnes Enough for National Supply for 10 Months

BULOG says its 4.5 million-tonne rice reserves, alongside national stocks and expected production, will meet demand through around July or August 2027. The government is also accelerating subsidised rice distribution and food assistance to stabilise prices and protect household purchasing power ahead of the year-end holiday period.

23rd China-ASEAN Expo Concludes Successfully, Sharing New Cooperation Opportunities from Free Trade Area 3.0

The five-day 23rd China-ASEAN Expo in Nanning drew 3,432 companies from 73 countries and regions and more than 360,000 visits, with business-matching activity and trade events reaching new levels. Its focus included China-ASEAN Free Trade Area 3.0, AI applications and practical cross-border cooperation; the next expo is scheduled for September 2027.

Police Arrest Five-Member Motorcycle Rental Embezzlement Syndicate from Sidatapa, Buleleng

Bali Police have arrested five suspects accused of running a motorcycle rental embezzlement scheme in Buleleng for several years. Investigators say the group used forged identities to rent motorcycles, then withheld the vehicles and demanded ransom payments from their owners; the suspects face prison sentences of up to eight years.

West Jakarta Man Steals Two Sacks of Onions from His Brother-in-Law’s Shop to Buy Synthetic Cannabis

A 23-year-old man has been arrested in Tambora, West Jakarta, after stealing two sacks of garlic from his brother-in-law’s shop and selling them to fund the purchase of synthetic cannabis. Police say CCTV footage helped identify and locate him within 24 hours; he faces up to five years in prison under Indonesia’s Criminal Code.

Preserving Our Roots: Deputy Home Affairs Minister Ribka Haluk Presents Cultural Figure Award at PIKI Awards 2026

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Ribka Haluk presented the Cultural Figure Award to Bambang Noorsena at the 2026 PIKI Awards, recognising his work as a theologian, philologist and historian. The event highlighted cultural preservation and exemplary public service, while PIKI leader Maruarar Sirait said the awards aim to inspire contributions across society.

Former East Jakarta Waste Collection Point to Become Jaga Jakarta Post

East Jakarta City Administration is converting a former temporary rubbish collection point beneath the Kampung Melayu flyover into a Jaga Jakarta post, following a decline in waste volumes and the start of local waste processing. The site is also being tidied up ahead of the opening of a nearby boxing gym, with access-road improvements planned to make the facility ready for residents from surrounding neighbourhoods.

Emotional Abuse of Children: The Effects That Can Last into Adulthood

Emotional abuse can be difficult to identify because it leaves no visible injuries, yet research suggests its effects can be as serious as those of physical abuse. Childhood victims may carry lasting trauma into adulthood, increasing their risk of mental health problems, low self-esteem and difficulty forming healthy relationships.

Europe Heats Up as Protests and Riots Spread Across 10 Countries

Demonstrations across Europe have been driven by grievances ranging from education funding cuts and the cost of living to housing shortages, alleged corruption and concerns over public media independence. Some protests have escalated into clashes and looting, while unrest in France has also coincided with heightened pressure in financial markets and protests in Serbia have become a challenge to the government ahead of elections.

SPPG in North Maluku Deploys Boats to Reach MBG Recipients on the Islands

A nutrition service unit operated by the Garuda Bakti Nusantara Foundation is using two boats to deliver 2,356 free nutritious meal packages each day to beneficiaries in eight villages in South Halmahera. The operation serves students and vulnerable groups across 27 schools and two community health posts, while students have requested greater variety in the menus and fruit.

US Said to Be Ready to Back Former Hungarian PM Viktor Orbán for UN Secretary-General

The United States is reportedly considering backing former Hungarian prime minister Viktor Orbán for UN secretary-general, amid a deadlock in the Security Council selection process. Reports say Russia and China may also support him, while no candidate has yet avoided a veto from one of the Council’s five permanent members.

Industry Minister Says Additional Gas Allocation Could Boost Capacity Utilisation

Industry Minister Muhammad Sarmuji says increasing domestic gas allocations for manufacturers could lift national manufacturing capacity utilisation from nearly 70 per cent to 80–85 per cent. He says the measure would support industrial output and GDP growth while helping sustain and expand employment, particularly in gas-dependent sectors.

BRI Disburses Rp144 Trillion in People’s Business Loans, Driving Productive Sectors and National MSMEs

BRI disbursed Rp144.59 trillion in People’s Business Loans (KUR) to 2.76 million borrowers from January to August 2026, with 68.38% directed to productive sectors and agriculture receiving the largest share. The bank says the lending supports MSME growth, regional economic activity and food security; it has also disbursed Rp11.9 trillion under the government’s Housing Programme Credit scheme.

Obama Attacks Trump Ahead of Midterm Elections: ‘This Is Our Last Chance to Stop Him’

Barack Obama has campaigned for Democrats in Ohio and Michigan, criticising Donald Trump over the Iran war, rising consumer prices and what he called the administration’s chaos and corruption. Trump defended his immigration and tariff policies at a rally in Georgia, while the midterm elections will determine control of Congress and how readily he can pursue his agenda.

Danamon Re-enters Fortune Indonesia 100 for 2026, Strengthening Its Record of Sustainable Business Growth

Bank Danamon has returned to Fortune Indonesia 100, ranking 44th among Indonesia’s 100 largest companies by revenue, with Rp30.9 trillion in revenue for the 2025 financial year. The bank says the improved ranking reflects stronger business performance and competitiveness, supported by ongoing transformation and collaboration with MUFG Group.

Some Indonesian Students Still Unable to Bring Their Families to Australia

Indonesian doctoral students say a change to Australia’s student visa rules has prevented them from bringing family members after their own visas were issued, despite an earlier announcement suggesting PhD students from Indonesia would be exempt. Indonesia’s embassy in Canberra says it has raised the issue with Australian officials and is seeking clarification and support, while affected students call for a transition arrangement.

Hajj Ministry Asks Umrah Operators to Avoid Stopovers in Malaysia and Singapore

Indonesia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has asked Umrah travel operators to avoid routing pilgrims through Malaysia and Singapore for the time being, saying the move would strengthen domestic airlines and the national economy. Deputy Minister Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak said as many as 70,000 Indonesian Umrah pilgrims transit through the two countries, while urging domestic carriers to improve services and offer competitive fares. The ministry also said Saudi Arabia considers conditions safe for Umrah despite rising geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.

UK Prime Minister Calls for Candid Debate on Restoring Free Movement with the EU

UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham has called for an evidence-based debate on the possibility of restoring free movement with the European Union, arguing that migration patterns have changed since Brexit. While he highlighted the loss of access to EU migration information systems, he ruled out advocating adoption of the euro or joining the Schengen area; Labour’s 2024 manifesto also rejects restoring free movement or rejoining key EU arrangements.

Bahlil Says Subsidised Fuel Prices Will Not Rise Until the End of the Year Despite Pressure on the State Budget

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia says subsidised fuel prices will remain unchanged through the end of 2026, even as Indonesia’s crude price exceeds the state budget assumption and is expected to increase subsidy and compensation costs. The government will prepare additional funding, while seeking to strengthen fuel supplies through revised procurement rules and long-term supply agreements with other countries.

Bulog Cianjur Records Paddy Procurement at 158% of Target

Bulog’s Cianjur branch says it procured 52,777 tonnes of paddy, equivalent to rice, in 2026—158% of its 33,202-tonne target. It will continue buying farmers’ harvests at the government-set price of Rp6,500 per kilogram through December, aiming to support farmers and strengthen national food security across Cianjur and Sukabumi.

Singapore Politician Makes ‘Threat’ to Cut Indonesia’s Internet Links

Singaporean politician Calvin Cheng Ern Lee appeared to suggest that Singapore could disrupt internet cables passing through its territory, prompting a strong reaction from Indonesian social media users. He later said Singaporeans were law-abiding and would not cut Indonesia’s internet network; an infographic cited in his post claimed that 90 per cent of Indonesia’s international internet traffic passes through Singapore.

Financial Giants Falter as Customers Receive ¥500,000 in Compensation

Japanese companies GMO Internet Group and Park24 are offering compensation to customers after cyber incidents disrupted services and exposed personal data. The payments and recovery costs are adding to corporate losses, while rising attacks prompt calls for stronger public-private cyber defences.

Latest Wildfire Hotspots: Central Kalimantan and South Sumatra Worst Affected

The National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) says forest and land fires remain active in several provinces, with the largest affected areas in Central Kalimantan and South Sumatra. In total, 990 hectares have been affected in Sumatra and 3,392 hectares in Kalimantan, while thousands of personnel and aerial resources are being deployed to tackle the fires.

Ahead of Year-End, Home Affairs Secretary-General Urges Local Governments to Check Commodity Prices Regularly to Curb Inflation

Home Affairs Secretary-General Tomsi Tohir has urged local governments to monitor commodity prices on the ground and step up market operations as year-end demand risks driving inflation higher. He cited recent inflation trends and rising red chilli prices, calling for detailed local data on prices, harvests and availability to inform concrete responses.

SMEXPO Cirebon 2026, Featuring Dozens of MSMEs, Praised by Mayor for Expanding Market Access

Thirty-two micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) showcased products at SMEXPO Cirebon 2026, an event intended to broaden market access and foster new business partnerships. Cirebon Mayor Effendi Edo praised the exhibition, saying it could help local businesses reach new customers while supporting trade and the regional economy.

With Construction Still Pending, Pramono Offers to Build Transjabodetabek Stops in Bekasi

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has offered to help build Transjabodetabek bus stops in Bekasi, following public complaints that construction has yet to begin. Bekasi Mayor Tri Adhianto said the stops are being developed and are targeted for completion in November, while leaving open the possibility of assistance from Jakarta under intergovernmental cooperation.

Arupa and Civo Launch Sovereign Cloud-Native Infrastructure

Arupa Cloud Nusantara and Civo have launched the Civo Indonesia Region, a locally operated public cloud platform designed for Kubernetes, virtual machines and modern application development, including AI workloads. The Jakarta deployment keeps customer data under Indonesian jurisdiction and offers managed services with local technical support, broadening infrastructure options for Indonesian businesses.

Rinambora Military Command to Recruit 1,000 New Soldiers in NTB, Selection Begins at Year-End

The newly formed XXX/Rinambora Military Command plans to recruit 1,000 Indonesian Army candidates in West Nusa Tenggara, with selection beginning towards the end of 2026 and training starting in early 2027. Initial training will be held at the IX/Udayana Military Command’s training regiment in Bali, while the new command develops facilities and determines the site for its permanent headquarters.

Can Cooking Oil Be Reused? Here’s What You Need to Know

Cooking oil can be reused if handled properly, but repeated heating can alter its chemical composition and may pose health risks. The article outlines warning signs that oil should be discarded and recommends safe disposal methods, including recycling where available.

Iran Comments on Israeli Election: Whatever the Result, It Makes No Difference

Iran says the outcome of Israel’s legislative election will make no difference to Tehran, as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces a close contest with the opposition. The vote is taking place amid escalating threats and accusations of possible interference, with recent polls projecting Netanyahu’s coalition to win fewer Knesset seats than its main rival.

Batam Immigration Records 71.21% of 2026 Non-Tax Revenue Target

Batam’s immigration office collected Rp100.76 billion in non-tax state revenue (PNBP) by the end of September 2026, reaching 71.21% of its annual target of Rp141.50 billion. Although the total was slightly below the same period in 2025, the target for 2026 is substantially higher; passport services and immigration permits were major revenue sources.

Rio Christiawan Raises Sustainability Issues Through Storytelling at UWRF 2026

Author and academic Rio Christiawan used three events at the Ubud Writers & Readers Festival to explore environmental sustainability, education and the role of literature in social change. His programme included a children’s storytelling session, the launch of a reflective non-fiction book and an international panel on how stories can advance environmental awareness and action.

Justin Bieber Returns to South Korea After 13 Years, This Time as an Entrepreneur

Justin Bieber has returned to South Korea for the first time since 2013, but this visit is focused on promoting his fashion and lifestyle brand, Skylrk, rather than performing. The brand’s Seoul pop-up store has drawn crowds in the Seongsu-dong district as Bieber expands its reach into the Asian market.

Video: Strengthening Cooperative Consolidation and Digitalisation to Support the Village Economy

Indonesia’s Cooperatives Ministry is promoting digital systems and stronger consolidation to expand cooperatives’ business activity, improve data management and connect village enterprises with wider markets. The ministry says cooperatives recorded business volume of Rp257 trillion and surplus of Rp87 trillion in 2026, while contributing 1.2% to GDP; it expects the Merah Putih Village Cooperatives initiative to strengthen supply chains and create jobs.

Palangka Raya Air Quality Remains Hazardous, Education Department Extends Remote Learning Until 28 October

Palangka Raya’s Education Department has extended remote learning for early childhood, primary and junior secondary pupils until 28 October because air quality remains hazardous amid smoke from forest and land fires. The temporary measure, first introduced in August, will remain under review based on air pollution readings, with officials prioritising children’s health and safety.

DJKI Encourages Creators to Take Advantage of Rp0 Copyright Registration Fees

Indonesia’s Directorate General of Intellectual Property is urging creators to use newly approved zero-rupiah fees for registering all types of copyright works, extending a policy previously limited to songs and music. The government says the measure responds to public requests and aims to encourage creativity; technical implementation will be set out in a forthcoming Minister of Law regulation.

Dwi Bagus Case: Killing of Dini and Her Child Described as an ‘Extraordinary’ Serial Murder

Police say Dwi Bagus allegedly killed his common-law wife, Dini Hardiyanti, and her four-year-old child, then attempted to conceal the killings by burning and grinding the bodies. He was arrested in Jombang and named a suspect, while investigators are examining whether anyone else was involved.

Turkish, Saudi and Pakistani Officials to Meet Iran for Regional Security Talks

Senior officials from Turkey, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan are due to meet Iranian leaders in Tehran to discuss regional security and de-escalation amid the ongoing US-Iran crisis. The talks are also intended to promote dialogue and diplomatic solutions, and to support mediation efforts led by Qatar and Pakistan.

Prabowo Calls for Research-Industry Collaboration to Accelerate Technology

President Prabowo Subianto is urging research institutions, universities and industry to work more closely to turn promising findings into commercially viable technologies and support Indonesia’s industrialisation. At the Danantara Technology Innovation Investment Forum, officials also called for sustained funding, international partnerships and stronger links between long-term investment, research and state-owned enterprises.

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

President Prabowo Subianto has disbursed Rp200 billion in presidential assistance to support forest and land fire response in South Sumatra, split across two phases and distributed to the province and 14 regencies and cities. The Forestry Minister said the funds should be spent transparently on fire-response measures and complement existing disaster-management, ministry and regional budgets.

Danantara Restructures WIKA as It Sells Stake in Subsidiary

State-owned construction firm Wijaya Karya (WIKA) has transferred its entire 44.18% stake in energy subsidiary WINNER to fellow group company WIKA REKON for Rp641 million. The related-party transaction is part of WIKA Group’s portfolio-streamlining plan, follows direction from majority shareholder Danantara Asset Management and is intended to simplify ownership and improve coordination.

Ministry: Permanent Housing for Disaster Survivors in Sumatra Under Construction

The Ministry of Housing and Settlement Areas says work is under way on 7,952 permanent homes for people affected by disasters in Aceh, North Sumatra and West Sumatra. While access difficulties and heavy rain are posing challenges in Aceh, the government has awarded 45 of 50 construction packages and aims to complete the homes and supporting infrastructure by 31 December 2026.

Undana Explores Five Strategic Partnerships with Chinese Vocational College

Universitas Nusa Cendana (Undana) is exploring five areas of cooperation with Jiangxi Biological Science Vocational College to strengthen vocational education, applied research and skills development linked to local resources. Proposed initiatives include student exchanges, joint curriculum development, agricultural food-processing research and staff training, with particular relevance to agriculture and livestock development in East Nusa Tenggara.

Home Affairs Minister Urges Continued Welfare Aid and Market Operations to Keep Food Prices Stable

Home Affairs Minister Muhammad Tito Karnavian has called for sustained social assistance and targeted market operations to contain food prices ahead of Christmas 2026 and New Year 2027. He also urged the Government to consider subsidies on electricity, fuel and air travel, warning that holiday demand and mobility could drive up prices and inflation.

Singapore’s Response After Indonesia Cuts Gas Exports

Singapore plans to diversify its gas imports, keep LNG facilities ready and increase LNG purchases if necessary after Indonesia began cutting gas supplies by 31 billion British thermal units per day. Singapore says its gas is supplied under commercial contracts and its state-owned gas company will assess whether the reduction constitutes a breach, while the move follows Indonesia’s stated intention to prioritise domestic energy needs.

Bahlil: Nuclear Development to Boost Energy Security

Indonesia is assessing potential sites for nuclear power plants in the Riau Islands, Halmahera, Kalimantan and Sumatra, with feasibility studies required before any decisions are made. The government is also considering international partners, including Russia for a proposed Halmahera project, as it seeks to strengthen national energy security.

MK Ruling Prompts Call for Revision of Military Courts Law, Says DPR Commission I Member

The Constitutional Court has ordered lawmakers to revise the 1997 Military Courts Law within two years, and DPR Commission I member Nurul Arifin says the legislation should be updated to reflect current needs. The ruling raises questions about whether military personnel accused of ordinary crimes should be tried in civilian courts; the TNI says it will comply with the court’s decision while its leaders review the implications.

Analyst Outlines Benefits of Jokowi Becoming PSI Chairman

Political analyst Hendri Satrio says leading the Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI) could give former president Joko Widodo a standing comparable to that of major party leaders Megawati Soekarnoputri and Prabowo Subianto. He argues that Jokowi, rather than current chairman Kaesang Pangarep, is the main source of the party’s mass support, and that his full backing could help PSI grow into a large party.

Former Minister Weighs In on Gift of 22.2% Stake in Bayan Resources (BYAN) to Foreign National

Former minister Dahlan Iskan has raised concerns about the transfer of a 22% stake in coal miner Bayan Resources from Indonesian citizen Low Tuck Kwong to his Singaporean daughter, Elaine, as a gift valued at Rp101.8 trillion. Dahlan cites former Trade Minister Muhammad Lutfi’s view that the transfer may breach Indonesian laws, but the article notes that this is an allegation rather than a court finding; Bayan Resources and the family have not provided a recent response.

Former Gowa Regent Husniah Talenrang Detained over Extortion and Money-Laundering Allegations

Former Gowa Regent Sitti Husniah Talenrang has been detained for 20 days while police investigate allegations of extortion, gratification and money laundering linked to permit processing in 2025–26. Investigators allege she directed officials to seek payments from housing developers, with two companies said to have paid a total of Rp150 million.

Danantara targets 15–16 waste-to-energy projects for tender by end of 2026

Danantara aims to put 15–16 waste-to-energy projects out to tender by the end of 2026, with eight projects expected to begin construction in the first quarter of 2027. Three initial projects in Bali and West Java are already under construction, while the programme is intended to address urban waste and add electricity-generating capacity.

Hoax: Prabowo Asked Indonesians to Boycott Social Media to Protect the Country’s Reputation

A viral post falsely claims that President Prabowo Subianto urged Indonesians to boycott Facebook, Threads, Instagram and TikTok to safeguard the country’s reputation. The image was taken from a video about efforts to tackle forest and land fires, and no official statement calling for a boycott was found.

With Global Oil at US$116 a Barrel, Is Indonesia’s State Budget Still Resilient?

Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara says Indonesia’s state budget (APBN) is serving as a buffer against global volatility, including oil prices of US$115–116 a barrel, by helping keep the prices of selected subsidised products stable. He also stressed that fiscal resilience depends on raising sufficient revenue, citing 2027 targets of about Rp3,400 trillion in state revenue and Rp4,000 trillion in expenditure.

MBG Kitchen Funds Not Disbursed; BGN Tells SPPGs to Meet These Requirements

Indonesia’s National Nutrition Agency (BGN) says operational funds for some Nutrition Fulfilment Service Units (SPPGs) have not reached their virtual accounts because of missing daily expenditure reports, mismatches in beneficiary data or undisciplined budget use. The agency’s explanation follows reports that some units were unable to serve beneficiaries under the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme because funds were unavailable.

BGN Reveals Why SPPG Operating Funds Are Not Being Disbursed

Indonesia’s National Nutrition Agency (BGN) says operating funds for Nutrition Fulfilment Service Units (SPPGs) may not be credited when units fail to submit daily spending reports, serve beneficiaries whose details do not match approved records, or manage their budgets improperly. The funding issues have reportedly prevented some units from serving beneficiaries under the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme.

Why Do People Bully? The Causes

Bullying is characterised by deliberate harm, repeated behaviour and an imbalance of power, with children among those most vulnerable to it. The article outlines possible causes of bullying, including emotional trauma, low empathy, insecurity, difficulty regulating emotions and having previously been bullied.

Use a BRI Credit Card to Pay for Rp100,000 Purchases in Instalments at 0% Interest

BRI has updated its credit-card instalment programme, allowing eligible retail transactions from Rp100,000 to be converted into instalments, with interest starting at 0% and terms of up to 36 months. Rates and eligible terms vary by card type and transaction value; applications can be made through BRI Contact or BRImo during the programme period, 24 July to 31 December 2026.

Police Arrest Motorbike Thief Who Posed as a Showroom Customer in Tambora

Police in West Jakarta have arrested a man accused of stealing a Honda PCX after posing as a customer at a motorcycle showroom in Tambora. He allegedly distracted staff by asking them to buy drinks and cigarettes, then made off with the bike, which he later sold for Rp4 million; police say he admitted to two similar thefts in the area.

KAI Daop 6 Improves Rail Track and Bridge Reliability Ahead of Christmas and New Year Travel Period

KAI’s Yogyakarta operating region is upgrading and maintaining tracks and bridges ahead of the rainy season and the 2026–27 Christmas and New Year travel period. Most planned ballast and sleeper work has been completed, while bridge replacements, track-level adjustments and drainage repairs are finished; the operator is also monitoring infrastructure and coordinating with the meteorological agency around the clock.

Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture Calls for Faster Rehabilitation and Reconstruction in Sumatra

Coordinating Minister Sugiono has called for faster post-disaster rehabilitation and reconstruction in Aceh, North Sumatra and West Sumatra, despite recovery progress reaching 98 per cent after 11 months. Public facilities are largely back in service, while some health centres, schools and housing projects remain unfinished; he also urged stronger coordination and the integration of disaster mitigation into development planning.

RI urges swift action on diesel access for fishermen

Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka has tasked a special staff member with monitoring subsidised diesel distribution in Cilacap and urged officials to resolve administrative hurdles preventing fishermen from accessing fuel. Fishermen say shortages particularly affect vessels of 30 gross tonnes or less, prompting calls to identify the causes and ensure eligible crews receive supplies.

Brazil’s Federal Supreme Court extends voting in presidential run-off

Brazil’s Federal Supreme Court ordered polling hours to be extended by two hours in the presidential run-off after transport disruptions and heavy rain made it difficult for some voters to reach polling stations. The ruling followed requests from both campaigns, although Rio Grande do Sul’s regional electoral court said it would not reopen polling stations that had already closed.

Indonesia Has Proven Reserves of 2.3 Billion Barrels of Oil and 35 Trillion Cubic Feet of Gas

SKK Migas says Indonesia holds proven reserves of 2.3 billion barrels of oil and 35 trillion cubic feet of gas, while only 20 of its 128 sedimentary basins are producing. The agency is seeking to attract investment through improved geological data, high-impact exploration wells and development of unconventional resources, with the aim of boosting production and strengthening energy security.

The History of the Youth Pledge of 28 October and Its Meaning

The Youth Pledge, adopted at the Second Youth Congress in Jakarta on 28 October 1928, affirmed a shared homeland, nation and unifying language among young people from diverse regional backgrounds. The article traces the movement that led to the pledge and explains its continuing significance for national unity, Indonesian identity and the role of young people.

Parking Attendant Protests South Jakarta Transport Agency Raids Only at Month-End

A parking attendant opposite Gandaria City has criticised South Jakarta’s transport agency for carrying out illegal-parking raids mainly at the end of each month, arguing that enforcement should happen daily. The agency removed nine motorcycles parked on the pavement, where they were obstructing pedestrian access; the attendant disputed the action, saying the vehicles did not block the walkway.

Jakarta Composite Index closes lower amid ‘wait-and-see’ stance on Fed rate policy

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) fell 1.22 per cent to 5,373.09 on Monday as investors weighed inflation, high oil prices and geopolitical tensions ahead of the Federal Reserve’s policy meeting. Higher energy costs have also revived concerns about Indonesia’s fiscal burden as an oil importer, while all 11 domestic sector indices ended lower.

Prabowo Summons Home Affairs Minister and BMKG Chief to the Palace

President Prabowo Subianto summoned Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian and BMKG chief Teuku Faisal Fathani for a meeting in Jakarta, with preparations for the rainy season and forest and land fires among the issues expected to be discussed. BMKG says the rainy season has been delayed by 20–30 days because of El Niño, and warns that significant rainfall is expected over a shorter period as the season peaks from December to February.

Hidden Sugar in Food: How to Spot It

Sugar can appear in everyday foods under a range of names, even in products marketed as low- or no-sugar. Checking serving sizes and the ingredients list can help consumers identify added sugars and manage their intake.

Indonesian Navy Member Suspected of Killing Wife in Mataram After Domestic Dispute

An Indonesian Navy member has been detained on suspicion of killing his wife in Mataram, West Nusa Tenggara, following an argument over domestic matters. The local naval base commander said the case was a private family matter, not connected to the Navy, and that investigators were still establishing the cause of the dispute and the full sequence of events.

BNPB: Fire at Malang’s Supit Urang Landfill Burns 15.5 Hectares

A fire at Supit Urang landfill in Malang has burned 15.5 hectares, with smoke still visible as of Sunday and crews continuing efforts to extinguish it. Strong winds and sparse vegetation have hampered operations, while the cause remains under investigation; BNPB has urged residents not to burn materials and to report any fires promptly.

Government Makes Requests to Block Piracy Websites Free of Charge

The Ministry of Law has set the non-tax state revenue (PNBP) fee for requests to block websites infringing intellectual property rights at zero, removing charges previously imposed on individuals and companies. The change is intended to make it easier for copyright holders to combat digital piracy and complements the free online copyright-registration service.

Three Bengal Tiger Cubs Become Semarang Zoo’s New Attraction

Three Bengal tiger cubs, born as part of Semarang Zoo’s breeding programme, are drawing visitors while receiving semi-handling care to help them become accustomed to veterinary examinations. The zoo is also seeking breeding partners through other conservation institutions to preserve genetic diversity and prevent inbreeding; ticket prices are now Rp10,000 for Semarang residents and Rp15,000 for visitors from outside the city.

BRI Credit Card Instalments Become More Flexible, with a Rp100,000 Minimum Transaction and 0% Interest

BRI has updated its credit card instalment programme, allowing eligible retail transactions from Rp100,000 to be converted into instalments, with interest starting at 0% and terms of up to 36 months. Interest rates and eligibility vary by card type and transaction amount, while customers can apply through BRI Contact or the BRImo app.

Russia Detains Japanese Journalist on Espionage Allegations as Tokyo-Moscow Tensions Rise

Japanese journalist Yuki Imai has been detained in Russia on suspicion of seeking information about military personnel, prompting Tokyo to condemn the arrest and demand access to him. The case adds to deteriorating Japan-Russia relations, amid longstanding territorial disputes and mutual accusations of security threats.

Bahlil Says 100 GWp Solar Power Drive Could Generate Rp6.31 Trillion in Carbon Value

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia says a fully implemented 100 GWp solar power programme could cut greenhouse gas emissions by 140.16 million tonnes of CO₂ annually, with estimated carbon value of Rp6.31 trillion. Its initial phase comprises 14 projects with 5.3 GWp of capacity, US$7.7 billion in investment and projected annual state budget savings of Rp4.6 trillion.

70-Year-Old Woman Dies After Falling from Melinjo Tree in Dlingo, Bantul

A 70-year-old woman was found dead beneath a melinjo tree in Pencitrejo, Dlingo, after apparently falling from a height of around 20 metres while picking coconuts. Police said she was known to climb trees to harvest fruit and urged residents to take precautions when carrying out risky activities.

Edwin Soeryadjaya Buys Another 711,900 Saratoga Shares

Saratoga Investama Sedaya commissioner and controlling shareholder Edwin Soeryadjaya bought 711,900 shares in two transactions on 22 and 23 October, spending a combined Rp1.19 billion. The purchases lifted his stake from 36.0646% to 36.0698%, following further share acquisitions in September.

Bahlil Reveals Suspected Mining Activity on Oil Palm Plantations; Several Companies Under Investigation

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia says authorities are investigating several companies suspected of conducting mining operations on oil palm plantation land. He stressed that businesses holding only plantation permits are not authorised to undertake other activities, and said the allegations involve companies whose operations may exceed the scope of their licences.

Tulungagung Officials’ Wives Face Scrutiny Over ‘Study Visit’ Funded by Regional Budget

Tulungagung’s Dharma Wanita Persatuan (DWP), an organisation for civil servants’ spouses, used around Rp50 million from the regional budget for a visit to Wonosobo. Although officials say the annual allocation supports organisational development and networking, social media posts showing tourism, dining and shopping activities have prompted public scrutiny.

Xpeng X9 Airbags Fail to Deploy in Crash

An Xpeng X9 was severely damaged in a crash in China, but its airbags did not deploy; no injuries were reported. XPeng said the impact did not meet the sensors’ activation threshold and offered to cooperate with an independent investigation, while the incident raises questions about vehicle safety systems and follows a separate suspension-component issue affecting some vehicles.

Europe Prepares Four Future Warfare Technologies, Including GPS-Free AI

The European Defence Agency has selected four companies from Poland, Finland, France and Estonia to receive €1.2 million in combined development funding for defence technologies tested in Portugal. The systems include autonomous ground vehicles, navigation for difficult terrain, AI-based missions designed to work without GPS, and low-cost rocket launchers for vehicles or drones; further development and testing are planned for 2027, and the funding is not a weapons procurement contract.

Customs: Methods for Smuggling Illegal Gold Exports Are Becoming More Varied

Indonesia’s Customs and Excise Directorate General says illegal gold-export smuggling methods are growing more varied, with recent cases involving gold powder concealed inside people’s bodies. October 2026 seizures at airports in Yogyakarta, Surabaya and Soekarno-Hatta included several kilograms of gold-bearing material, prompting calls for stronger coordination among airport authorities, police and other border agencies.

Former Gowa Regent Sitti Husniah Detained in Extortion and Money-Laundering Case

South Sulawesi Police have detained former Gowa Regent Sitti Husniah Talenrang after questioning her as a suspect in an alleged extortion and gratification scheme involving permit processing in Gowa in 2025–2026. She faces corruption and money-laundering allegations; investigators say they will continue examining the case and coordinate with prosecutors while upholding the presumption of innocence.

Indonesia Pledges to Create an Attractive Upstream Oil and Gas Investment Climate

SKK Migas says Indonesia is working to make upstream oil and gas investment more attractive and predictable through competitive fiscal terms, improved licensing and block offerings, and better access to data and exploration opportunities. It is also developing an exploration framework and unconventional oil and gas projects to boost discoveries, offset declining output from mature fields and reduce reliance on energy imports.

Video: Five Ways the Cooperatives Ministry Is Helping Merah Putih Village Co-operatives Compete with State-Owned and Private Firms

Deputy Minister Farida Faricha says the Cooperatives Ministry is supporting President Prabowo Subianto’s priority programme to establish Merah Putih village and urban-ward co-operatives. With more than 83,000 cooperatives established and thousands of buildings completed, the ministry is accelerating operations while preparing supply chains and promoting professional management, skilled staff, sound governance, digitalisation and transparent financial reporting.

Former Central Bank Governor Detained Over Alleged Rp14 Trillion Corruption

Hungarian prosecutors have detained and questioned former central bank governor György Matolcsy over alleged misuse of public funds linked to a central-bank foundation. Investigators say the case concerns US$817.8 million in assets and allegedly fictitious securities-loan agreements intended to give Matolcsy and his son influence over the funds after he left office.

Indonesia Cuts Gas Exports to Singapore; Bahlil Says It Is Only 2% of Its Needs

Indonesia has cut piped gas supplies to Singapore by 31 million standard cubic feet per day, prioritising domestic energy needs amid maintenance at production facilities. Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia said the reduction is around 8% of the contracted volume but represents only about 2% of Singapore’s overall gas consumption, and remains within the contract’s minimum supply terms.

Hajj Ministry Says Umrah Travel in Saudi Arabia Remains Safe

Indonesia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah says Saudi authorities consider conditions safe for Umrah despite rising tensions in the Middle East, with no Indonesian pilgrim flights or activities postponed or cancelled so far. The ministry is monitoring developments with the Foreign Ministry and has urged pilgrims and travel operators to favour direct flights to Jeddah or Madinah and avoid routes requiring transit.

Bicara Udara Calls on Runners to Speak Up for the Right to Clean Air

The environmental NGO Bicara Udara has urged runners to treat air quality as a public-health concern and a fundamental right, not merely a factor affecting athletic performance. Its initiatives include an air-quality guide and monitoring at a recent Jakarta running event, alongside a solidarity campaign highlighting unequal pollution risks and the need to protect communities affected by haze and forest fires.

Suahasil Outlines Five Key Areas to Make Indonesia a Developed Country

Finance Deputy Minister Suahasil Nazara says Indonesia must strengthen human capital, physical infrastructure, institutions, structural reform and stability to achieve developed-country status. He highlighted the need to improve education and healthcare through state and non-state funding, while stressing sound governance and sustained reform across institutions.

BRI’s People’s Business Credit Disbursements Reach Rp144.59 Trillion to 2.76 Million Borrowers by August

BRI disbursed Rp144.59 trillion in People’s Business Credit (KUR) from January to August 2026, reaching 2.76 million borrowers, with 68.38% allocated to productive sectors. Agriculture, hunting and forestry accounted for the largest share, while the bank said it would continue prioritising targeted, prudent lending and support for MSMEs. Since 2015, cumulative KUR disbursements have reached Rp1,580 trillion; BRI also reported Rp11.9 trillion in housing programme loans by the end of August 2026.

North Korea Complains to UN Security Council, Accuses South Korea of Staging Landmine Blast

North Korea has written to the UN Security Council accusing South Korea of fabricating the landmine explosion that injured three South Korean soldiers in the Demilitarised Zone. The exchange of accusations, alongside South Korea’s proposal for military talks and reports of North Korean troops moving into firing positions, underscores escalating tensions on the peninsula.

Kadin Chief Anindya Bakrie: Human Rights Due Diligence Is a Prerequisite for Market Access and Investment

Kadin chief Anindya Bakrie says human rights due diligence is increasingly essential for Indonesian businesses seeking global market access and investment, particularly as Indonesia pursues accession to the OECD. He argues that responsible supply-chain standards should strengthen competitiveness and help the country’s 65.5 million MSMEs improve their capabilities rather than exclude them.

Betawi-Culture-Themed Pedestrian Area Redeveloped in Kebayoran Lama, Jakarta

A 60-metre pedestrian area in Kebayoran Lama Selatan, formerly occupied by unauthorised street vendors, has been redeveloped as a Betawi-themed garden. The project aims to provide residents with a cleaner, tidier and more comfortable public space.

Former Gowa Regent Husniah Talenrang Detained over Alleged Extortion and Money Laundering

Police have detained former Gowa Regent Sitti Husniah Talenrang for 20 days after questioning her as a suspect in an alleged corruption case involving extortion, licensing-related gratification and money laundering. Investigators say the alleged schemes involved several permits and have seized assets worth Rp5.58 billion while seeking to prevent her from travelling abroad.

Indonesia Steps Up Global Transactions Without US Dollars, Reaching Rp998 Trillion by End-2026

Bank Indonesia Deputy Governor Destry Damayanti expects transactions using local currencies under the LCT scheme to reach US$55 billion by the end of 2026, up about 120% from 2025. Wider use of the arrangement—led mainly by China-related transactions—is intended to reduce domestic demand for US dollars and help balance the rupiah, amid a current account deficit exceeding 3% of GDP in the second quarter of 2026.

Despite Their Reputation for Supporting Israel, Three Young Druze Men Stabbed for Speaking Arabic in Tel Aviv

Three young Druze men were attacked outside a Tel Aviv nightclub after speaking Arabic, according to the father of one of the victims. One 18-year-old, who is due to join the Israeli military in four months, suffered moderate stab wounds; the incident has prompted anger in the Druze community, with reports that no arrests have yet been made.

17 Foreign Nationals Suspected of Running Loan Business Charging 30% Interest at Bali Villa

Immigration officers detained 17 Malaysian and Singaporean nationals at a villa in North Kuta, alleging they used their residence permits to administer personal loans marketed online to customers outside Indonesia. The group allegedly charged interest of 20–30 per cent and faces immigration action, while Bali Governor Wayan Koster backed enforcement of the law alongside the province’s tourism economy.

Jordan Arrests Three Suspects in Church Terror Attack

Jordanian security forces have arrested three people suspected of carrying out an armed attack on a church funeral gathering in Karak that killed nine people and injured 25. The suspects were wounded in a shootout during their arrest, and authorities said weapons and ammunition were seized; the government declared three days of national mourning after the attack.

One Fire Hotspot Remains on Mount Lawu as Central Java Governor Calls for Forest Fire Mitigation

One fire hotspot remained above Gondosuli village on Mount Lawu on Monday, prompting Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi to call for continued patrols and a further helicopter water-bombing sortie. He also urged stronger prevention efforts and proposed water reservoirs and channels, while authorities investigate the cause of the fires.

MP Calls for Umrah Departures to Be Suspended if Houthi Attacks Escalate

Indonesian MP Nurul Arifin has urged the government to prioritise the safety of Indonesian Umrah pilgrims as Houthi attacks and security alerts in Saudi Arabia raise concern. She said departures could be temporarily suspended if the situation worsens, while recommending direct flights to Jeddah or Madinah to avoid risky transit routes.

Danantara Targets Rp200 Trillion from State-Owned Enterprises, Plans Major Restructuring by 2030

Danantara is targeting Rp200 trillion in net contributions from state-owned enterprises (SOEs) in 2026, while their combined net profit reached Rp214.9 trillion in the first eight months of the year. It plans to restructure about 750 companies and reduce the portfolio to fewer than 200 entities by 2029–2030, aiming to curb losses and improve efficiency, although the contribution target is not itself an investment budget.

Satpol PP Engages Residents in Mitigating Public Order Disruptions

Satpol PP in North Seribu Islands is involving local residents and community groups in efforts to identify and prevent potential public order disturbances. Officials say coordination between government officers and residents is essential to early detection and to maintaining a safe, orderly environment.

Indonesia and Japan Seek to Strengthen People-to-People Ties Ahead of 70th Diplomatic Anniversary

Indonesia and Japan are promoting cultural exchanges ahead of the 70th anniversary of their diplomatic relations in 2028. Organisers say the 2026 Jak Japan Matsuri will introduce visitors to both countries’ cultures and help deepen public familiarity and friendship.

BRI Drives MSME Growth, Disbursing Rp144 Trillion in People’s Business Loans to 2.76 Million Borrowers

BRI disbursed Rp144.59 trillion in People’s Business Loans (KUR) to 2.76 million borrowers between January and August 2026, with 68.38% directed to productive sectors, led by agriculture. The bank says the lending supports MSME productivity and local economies; since 2015, it has cumulatively channelled Rp1,580 trillion in KUR, and it also reported Rp11.9 trillion in housing programme loans by the end of August 2026.

On First Day of Operation Patuh, Riau Police Focus on Traffic Safety Education

Riau Police launched the 14-day Operation Patuh Lancang Kuning 2026 across the province, prioritising public education and outreach on road safety. The operation involves 971 personnel from the police, provincial transport agency, military and municipal civil service police, with enforcement intended as a last resort and electronic ticketing used for dangerous violations.

Housing Renovation Programme Had Reached 70.9% by 28 October, Says Housing Ministry

The Housing and Settlements Ministry says its self-help housing assistance programme had reached 70.9% completion by 26 October. West Java has the largest allocation, with 49,000 homes, including 10,000 uninhabitable houses in Bogor Regency; the government also aims to link renovations with economic support and land-title assistance.

Bahlil Says Indonesia Plans to Build Nuclear Power Plant in Riau Islands

Indonesia is studying plans to build a nuclear power plant in the Riau Islands as part of efforts to strengthen national energy security, Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia said. The government is targeting at least 500 megawatts of nuclear capacity connected to the grid by 2032–34, and says sites need to be prepared well in advance because construction can take seven to ten years.

Danantara Says 52% of 1,074 State-Owned Enterprises Lose Rp20 Trillion

Danantara says 558 of the 1,074 state-owned companies under its management are loss-making, with combined annual losses of around Rp20 trillion. It also estimates that layered transactions within state-owned groups generate up to US$2 billion in inefficiencies each year, citing Telkom and Pertamina as examples.

Stray Shark Captivates Millions in South Korea: Will It Return to the Sea?

A female dusky shark that became trapped in a Busan canal drew more than 1.6 million visitors and sparked an unusual public campaign as authorities struggled to guide it back to open water. After repeated rescue attempts, the shark was last seen swimming away from the canal, though experts remain concerned about injuries and whether it has reached a safe habitat.

Pegadaian to Offer 1.88 Kilograms of Gold in Prizes to Customers in Badai Emas 2026

Pegadaian has launched the first period of its annual Badai Emas 2026 loyalty draw, offering customers a total of 1.88 kilograms in gold savings balances. Running nationwide from 25 October to 31 December 2026, the programme uses the Tring! app to support digital financial inclusion and customer engagement.

US Marine Charged with Robbery and Murder in Japan

A 20-year-old US Marine stationed at Futenma Air Station has been charged with robbing and murdering a 39-year-old local woman in Naha, Okinawa. The case has reignited public anger over crimes involving US military personnel in Okinawa, which accounts for nearly half of the 4,998 cases involving US service members and their families handled by Japanese police since 1989.

Dwi Bagus Mutilated His Common-Law Wife and Her Child, and Planned to Dump Them at Sea

Police say Dwi Bagus killed his common-law wife, Dini Hardiyanti, and her four-year-old son in separate locations in Madiun, then burned and put their bodies through a meat grinder. He was arrested in Jombang and is expected to be taken to Madiun as investigators examine the suspected murder and disposal sites.

Kadin Calls for Stronger Business Capabilities to Meet Challenges

Kadin Indonesia chairman Anindya Novyan Bakrie says businesses need stronger capabilities to adapt to geopolitical shifts, climate change and changing global supply chains, with particular attention to the country’s MSMEs. The organisation plans to prioritise business advocacy, training and assistance in a forthcoming revision of its law, while participants at a Kadin dialogue highlighted private-sector leadership, skills development and AI readiness as essential to Indonesia’s future growth.

BI Governor Comments After US Dollar Breaks Rp18,159

Bank Indonesia Governor Damayanti said the central bank remains active in the market and is monitoring the rupiah’s decline against the US dollar, which reached Rp18,159 on Monday afternoon. She characterised the movement as ordinary volatility driven by supply and demand, and said BI would continue to investigate its underlying causes without changing its response strategy for now.

UI Leads International Research into Nutrition-Based TB Prevention

Universitas Indonesia is leading the PHOTON international study examining whether improved nutrition can help prevent tuberculosis among household contacts of TB patients. With Indonesia carrying the world’s second-highest TB burden, researchers say the findings could strengthen evidence for national and global prevention strategies, while placing Indonesian scientists in a leadership role.

Nurdin Halid urges KDKMP to prioritise member sovereignty and transparency

Nurdin Halid has called for the accelerated operation of 15,000 Red and White Village/Urban Ward Cooperatives by 15 October 2026, with member control, community needs and transparent financial management at the centre. The programme involves more than Rp40 trillion in annual public funding; Halid says oversight must ensure the cooperatives become sustainable engines of local economic activity rather than merely meeting administrative targets.

AIGCC stresses need for clarity on Indonesia’s energy transition roadmap

The Asia Investor Group on Climate Change says Indonesia must turn its existing energy transition plans into a clear, financeable implementation roadmap to attract private investment. Priorities include aligning national, electricity-sector and JETP plans, clarifying project revenues and risks, and setting out the transition of coal-fired and captive power plants; the 2025–2034 electricity plan envisages US$188 billion in investment.

Indonesia Halts Cassava Imports, Delighting Farmers as Prices Rise to Rp3,000/kg

Agriculture Minister Amran Sulaiman says cassava prices at farm level have climbed to around Rp3,000 per kilogram after the government stopped imports, up from a reported low of Rp700. The government says the measure responds to farmers’ complaints and is intended to protect domestic producers; it also expects Indonesian cassava exports to resume next week.

Jakarta Provincial Government Sets Aside Rp362bn in Compensation for Bantargebang Waste Facility

Jakarta will provide Bekasi with about Rp362 billion over the next five years under an extended cooperation agreement for managing the Bantargebang Integrated Waste Processing Site. The funds will support social assistance, infrastructure and economic empowerment for communities affected by waste operations, while Jakarta plans to expand sorting and processing to reduce reliance on the site.

Video: Securities Chief Says MSCI Raises Questions over Indonesia’s Credibility

Sucor Sekuritas CEO Bernardus Wijaya says MSCI’s warning that Indonesia could be downgraded from Emerging Market to Standalone Market has put the credibility of the country’s capital market under scrutiny. He links the concern to coordinated trading that harms investors, and says regulators must strengthen reforms and communication with MSCI and global investors.

IDX to Freeze Accounts Immediately if Stock Manipulation Is Suspected

The Indonesia Stock Exchange plans to publish investigation notices when surveillance detects early signs of stock manipulation, and can freeze or suspend suspected accounts without halting broader trading. The reforms also expand the independent membership of the High Shareholding Concentration committee, as authorities seek to strengthen enforcement and restore investor confidence amid scrutiny from global index provider MSCI.

Law Ministry Blocks 700,000 Business Entities for Failing to Report Beneficial Ownership Data

Indonesia’s Law Ministry has blocked about 700,000 businesses and foundations for failing to submit beneficial ownership information by the deadline. The figure is down from roughly two million last year; the ministry says blocked entities are automatically classified as inactive.

UMJ Inaugurates 22 New Doctors, Urges Them to Be Adaptable and Competent

Universitas Muhammadiyah Jakarta’s Faculty of Medicine and Health has inducted 22 new doctors, bringing its total number of graduates to 2,194. University leaders urged the graduates to pursue further training, keep pace with medical technology and artificial intelligence, and serve communities beyond Jakarta, while the faculty highlighted its work on robotic spine surgery.

Mitigating Supply-Chain Risks in the Palm Oil Industry

Indonesia’s palm oil sector faces a convergence of El Niño-related production losses, higher fertiliser and fuel costs, and rising domestic demand for biodiesel, threatening exports and cooking-oil supplies. The article calls for flexible biodiesel quotas tied to harvest levels and incentives to turn palm mill waste into organic fertiliser to strengthen the sector’s resilience.

Bima Regency Government Discusses Gold-Backed Farm Financing Scheme

Bima Regency is discussing a gold-backed financing programme with Bank Dinar to help farmers access capital, with indicative funding of around Rp20 million per hectare for production inputs and repayment after harvest. The initiative was raised during a village governance regulation session, where officials also urged village governments to strengthen productive businesses, manage budgets transparently and make better use of local potential.

HUB.ID Global Summit 2026 Holds 813 Business Meetings in Bali

HUB.ID Global Summit 2026 brought together 81 startups, 45 investors and 35 corporations from 13 countries, facilitating 813 tailored business meetings over two days. While the Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs said some discussions are progressing towards further cooperation, it has not disclosed new deal values; the programme’s reported US$60 million-plus in deals relates to the 2022–2024 period.

Police Arrest Four Men Caught Trying to Break into a House in Depok

Police in Depok arrested four men suspected of attempting to break into a house and steal a motorbike in Tapos. Officers said the suspects were stopped during a patrol and found carrying burglary tools; they have been handed over to Cimanggis Police for further investigation.

You Can Now Make WhatsApp Calls Without an Account — Here’s How

WhatsApp now allows people without accounts to join voice and video calls through an invitation link, subject to approval by the group administrator or call organiser. The move expands access while maintaining privacy restrictions, and comes as the platform prepares calendar integration and continues to reduce reliance on phone numbers.

Military Chief Resigns, Admits to Inappropriate Relationship

New Zealand Defence Force chief Air Marshal Tony Davies has resigned after acknowledging an inappropriate relationship while commanding a military unit. Defence Minister Paul Goldsmith said Davies’ position had become untenable, citing an undisclosed integrity issue; Deputy Chief Vice Marshal Mat Williams will serve as acting head.

Residents Slaughter Crocodile That Attacked Selviana While She Was Bathing in the Bondo Kodi River

Residents in Kodi district, East Sumba, slaughtered a crocodile that attacked 24-year-old Selviana Ambu Kaka while she was bathing in the Bondo Kodi River. Police said the animal’s stomach was cut open to check whether she had been swallowed; its remains were later buried near the river.

National Police Chief and Armed Forces Commander Named Honorary Members of Indonesian Air Force’s Korpasgat

The Indonesian Air Force’s Rapid Response Corps (Korpasgat) has named five senior military and police leaders honorary members, including the Armed Forces Commander and National Police Chief. The ceremony featured a special-operations demonstration and highlighted inter-agency solidarity and cooperation.

Education Minister: Three Months of Outstanding Teacher Allowances Have Been Paid

Education Minister Abdul Mu’ti says outstanding professional-certification allowances for non-civil-servant teachers have now been paid, with eligible teachers receiving Rp6 million covering July to October. The payments follow a delay that drew complaints from teachers and pressure from lawmakers, while the Finance Ministry had been preparing the disbursement.

TNI Deploys Three Aircraft for Weather Modification in Kalimantan

The Indonesian military deployed three aircraft to seed clouds over Kalimantan, releasing more than 10 tonnes of salt and dry ice to encourage rainfall and help extinguish forest and peatland fires. The TNI will keep transport aircraft on standby for further operations, following a presidential directive to accelerate fire mitigation; a Super Puma helicopter is also conducting water-bombing missions near Mount Lawu.

West Java Leads National Investment Realisation Again, Reaching Rp91 Trillion in Q3 2026

West Java recorded investment realisation of Rp91 trillion in the third quarter of 2026, accounting for 17.2% of Indonesia’s total and the highest provincial figure. The province’s year-to-date total reached about Rp229.1 trillion, as officials cited continued investor confidence and the province’s appeal amid global economic uncertainty.

Bank Jateng Backs Economic Growth Efforts to Attract Investment

Bank Jateng says it will support Central Java’s investment drive through investment financing, working capital, services for MSMEs, cash management and payment solutions. The bank also aims to connect investors with local suppliers and pursue collaboration through the Central Java Investment Forum, as provincial investment reached Rp88.50 trillion in 2025, up 28% year on year.

Yogyakarta Palace to Summon Tour Guide Association After Tourist Reports Scam

The Yogyakarta Palace plans to meet the local tour guide association after a tourist’s account of an alleged scam near the palace went viral. Palace officials say they are trying to identify the man involved and have urged visitors to check official channels for accurate information about visiting arrangements.

Five Airports Used as Routes for Illegal Gold Exports; Customs Seizes 25.88kg

Indonesian Customs seized 25.88kg of gold worth Rp61.95 billion in alleged illegal export attempts at five international airports in October 2026. The cases involved travellers bound for destinations including Singapore, Guangzhou, Bangkok and Malaysia; investigations are under way, with several suspects facing charges under customs law.

BI Governor Reveals Why Indonesia’s Current Account Deficit Has Widened, Putting Rupiah Under Pressure

Bank Indonesia Governor Destry Damayanti said Indonesia’s current account deficit widened to 3.34% of GDP in the second quarter of 2026, largely because of high energy imports. The rupiah fell to its weakest closing level since early June, prompting calls for export promotion and import substitution alongside a greater use of biofuel blends.

BMKG Deploys 15 Aircraft for Cloud-Seeding Operations in Three Provinces

Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has deployed 15 aircraft for cloud-seeding operations in Central Kalimantan, South Kalimantan and South Sumatra to support efforts to tackle forest and land fires. The operation aims to increase rainfall this week, with BMKG identifying areas at very high and high fire risk through the end of November.

Fire in West Jakarta’s Dense Tamansari Neighbourhood Extinguished, 14 Homes Destroyed

A fire in a densely populated area of Tamansari, West Jakarta, was extinguished after destroying or affecting 14 homes. No deaths were reported; around 30 families, or 60 people, were affected, while the cause remains under investigation.

Indonesia’s SOEs’ combined profit reaches Rp214.9 trillion

Indonesia’s state-owned enterprises recorded combined net profit of Rp214.9 trillion in January–August 2026, up Rp33.4 trillion year on year, while annualised return on equity rose to 8 per cent. Danantara attributed the gains to business and management reforms, saying stronger SOE profitability will support its investment capacity in strategic sectors.

Indian Transgender Group Stages Naked Roadside Protest amid Dispute over Territory

A dispute between two transgender communities over the division of their working areas led to a more than hour-long protest near Jhansi police headquarters, disrupting traffic. Police arrested five people and charged them under several provisions of India’s Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.

Police Describe How 16-Year-Old Persib Supporter from Bogor Died; Regent Offers Condolences

Police say the 16-year-old Persib supporter was found dead after returning from a football match, with injuries reportedly consistent with a sharp weapon; the cause of death remains under investigation. Bogor Regent Rudy Susmanto visited the victim’s family, offered condolences and said the local government would cover hospital costs, while urging football to serve as a unifying force.

Motorcyclist Dies After Crashing into Barrier at Pondok Indah Underpass

A 24-year-old motorcyclist died after crashing into the entrance barrier of the Metro Pondok Indah underpass in South Jakarta. Police said the crash occurred on Monday morning and was likely caused by a lack of care and concentration; the rider was taken to hospital but could not be saved.

Video: The Deputy Cooperatives Minister’s Plan to Turn Cooperatives into Economic Engines

Deputy Cooperatives Minister Farida Faricha says the ministry is backing President Prabowo Subianto’s priority programmes, including the Merah Putih village and urban-ward cooperatives. With more than 83,000 cooperatives established and 10,070 buildings expected to be ready to operate soon, the ministry is accelerating operations while developing supply chains and strengthening existing cooperatives through professional management, skilled staff, sound governance, digitalisation and transparent financial reporting.

Puan Calls for Hospital Infrastructure to Be Strengthened to Address Patient Surge Linked to Forest Fires

DPR Speaker Puan Maharani has urged the government to reinforce hospital capacity, particularly in Central Kalimantan, amid a sharp rise in acute respiratory infection cases as air quality worsens due to forest and land fires. She called for support to be guided by up-to-date data on patient numbers, staffing, beds and referral capacity, while also strengthening community health centres and protecting other essential services.

Bahlil Reveals Indonesia’s Gas Exports to Singapore Reach 409.55 Mmscfd

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia said Indonesia exports 409.55 million standard cubic feet of pipeline gas per day to Singapore and has reduced deliveries by 31 Mmscfd, or about 8 per cent. He said the cut remains within the minimum levels set by contract, citing well maintenance and domestic demand, while Indonesia also exports 146 cargoes of LNG.

Is Youth Pledge Day on 28 October 2026 a Public Holiday? Find Out Here

Youth Pledge Day will be commemorated on Wednesday, 28 October 2026, but it is not a public holiday or a collective leave day under the applicable regulations. The 98th anniversary will carry the theme “Patriotic, Resilient, Empathetic: Youth for Indonesia”, with central and regional governments encouraged to hold flag-raising ceremonies and the public invited to take part in other activities.

Planning for State University Admissions and Private University Alternatives: A Guide for Year 12 Students

Year 12 students are encouraged to plan early for university admissions, weighing their interests, academic prospects, family finances and career goals while tracking official selection dates. The article also sets out six factors for assessing private universities as a backup and highlights Cyber University's three-year study plus one-year industry placement model.

IDX Ready to Suspend Accounts Suspected of Share Price Manipulation

The Indonesia Stock Exchange plans to reduce the use of Unusual Market Activity notices and whole-stock trading suspensions, instead targeting securities accounts suspected of manipulating share prices. The new approach, developed with the Financial Services Authority, is intended to preserve market liquidity while strengthening surveillance and is expected to take effect in early November 2026.

Rejang Lebong Regency Government Seeks Repatriation of Indonesian Migrant Worker’s Remains from Japan

Rejang Lebong authorities, Bengkulu province and the Semanggi job-training institution are coordinating efforts to repatriate Rizki Ade Putra, 26, who died in Osaka. The local government said administrative and cross-border coordination is under way, after he was reportedly found to have fallen from the ninth-floor balcony of his apartment.

Observer Urges Asset Forfeiture Bill Working Group to Ensure Transparency

Legal expert Oce Madril has urged the parliamentary working group on the Asset Forfeiture Bill to publish its latest draft so the public can see how earlier submissions have been incorporated. He also called for safeguards against abuse of enforcement powers, as lawmakers aim to pass the bill by 15 December 2026.

Bank Indonesia continues to monitor rupiah movements amid market volatility

Bank Indonesia Governor Destry Damayanti says the central bank remains active in the market and is monitoring the rupiah, while it has no immediate plans to change its intervention strategy. The rupiah weakened 0.30% to Rp18,135 per US dollar as fears of escalating conflict in the Middle East pushed Brent crude prices to their highest level since late April.

Danantara Plans to Develop AI Chips and a Massive 1 GW Data Centre

Danantara plans to pursue more than 40 strategic projects across six priority industrial clusters, including domestic semiconductor development and a 1 GW data centre. Its plans also include working with chip designer Arm and training 15,000 Indonesians in chip design, as the state investment body seeks to build greater technological capacity and value-added manufacturing at home.

In the Upper Mahakam, One-Price Fuel Supports Residents’ Lives

Residents in 13 villages in Long Pahangai rely on fuel for transport and essential daily activities, including farming, fishing and operating rice mills. Low river levels during the dry season complicate deliveries, prompting the local fuel agency to seek land-based supply routes when river transport is disrupted.

Pertamina Studies Gas Distribution Technology with Japanese Partners to Strengthen National Energy Resilience

Pertamina has signed a joint study agreement with Japan’s Yachiyo Engineering and Atomis to assess Metal-Organic Framework technology for storing and distributing gas. The study will examine whether this non-pipeline solution can complement existing infrastructure and expand energy access, with safety, technical and economic feasibility, regulatory compliance and risk management identified as priorities.

The Symbolic Shift in the Identity of the Book Reader

Reading is increasingly being treated not only as a way to gain knowledge but also as a marker of social identity, particularly on social media. The article notes the emergence of paid book-reading services on Threads, where customers can commission reading, annotations and aesthetic photographs, reflecting the growing commodification of readerly identity.

Jembrana Man Dies by Electrocution After Bathing in Irrigation Channel

A 65-year-old man in Jembrana, Bali, died after receiving an electric shock when he grasped a streetlight pole after bathing in an irrigation channel. PLN officers traced the current to a damaged cable at the top of the pole; police said there were no signs of violence, and the family accepted the death as an accident.

US Marine Charged with Murder of Woman in Okinawa

Japanese prosecutors have charged a 20-year-old US Marine with murder and robbery over the death of a 39-year-old woman in Naha, Okinawa. The case has renewed public anger over the presence of US forces on the island and prompted Japan to review rules governing service members’ conduct off base.

Bali police arrest four over hoarding of subsidised fuel

Police in Bali arrested four people suspected of stockpiling 795 litres of subsidised Pertalite and reselling it illegally after exploiting digital purchasing controls with stolen or falsified QR codes. The case highlights enforcement efforts to protect subsidised fuel supplies, with investigators probing possible wider networks and the involvement of petrol stations.

Tariffs, Infrastructure and Incentives Remain Obstacles to Geothermal Investment

Indonesia has an estimated 24 GW of geothermal potential, but installed capacity is only about 2.8 GW, highlighting the scope for expansion. Energy economist Fahmy Radi says investment will depend on resolving tariff and project-economics issues, improving supporting infrastructure and offering fiscal incentives, as the government pursues major renewable-energy additions.

Rupiah Weakens Amid Concerns Over the Impact of Rising Oil Prices

The rupiah fell 0.30% to Rp18,135 per US dollar, as rising global oil prices fuelled concerns about Indonesia’s fiscal position. An analyst warned that higher energy import costs, subsidies and compensation payments could widen the 2026 budget deficit, with oil prices and currency depreciation already exceeding key assumptions.

Higher Education Ministry Strengthens Students’ Data Skills through Satria Data

The Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology is using the 2026 Satria Data event to develop local data talent and strengthen students’ ability to analyse and interpret data. Registration rose by about 71 per cent year on year to 2,905, reflecting growing interest in statistics and data science; the national selection will be hosted by Diponegoro University and feature four competition categories.

Buya Hamka: The Path to Allah’s Mercy Lies in Showing Compassion

Drawing on Buya Hamka’s Tafsir Al-Azhar, the article explains that showing mercy to others is a way to receive Allah’s mercy, and that compassion is a defining quality of faith. It contrasts enduring spiritual wealth with material possessions, urging believers to value divine guidance, good deeds and mercy while using their worldly wealth as a means to seek happiness in the hereafter.

Kompol Aditia Dies After Seven Years in a Coma Following Assault While Breaking Up Martial Arts Group Clash

Kompol Aditia Mulya Ramdhani, a former Wonogiri police criminal investigation chief, has died after spending seven years in a coma following an assault while intervening in a clash between pencak silat groups in 2019. Central Java Police expressed their condolences and called for an end to mass brawls involving martial arts schools.

BMKG Chief Says Forest and Land Fire Hotspots Remain High in South Sumatra and Central Kalimantan as Weather Modification Operations Intensify

BMKG chief Teuku Faisal Fathani says forest and land fires remain particularly severe in South Sumatra and Central Kalimantan, prompting continued large-scale government firefighting efforts. Nine aircraft are carrying out weather modification operations in Central and South Kalimantan, with another six deployed in South Sumatra, as authorities hope for rain this week.

Bali Provincial Council Raises Fuel Crisis, Proposes Real-Time Stock Checks

Four factions in Bali’s provincial legislature have proposed measures to prevent a repeat of the fuel shortages and long queues that affected the island in mid-October. Proposals range from real-time digital stock information and a dedicated supply-coordination unit to compensation demands and reforms to Pertamina’s distribution management.

Camino de Flores Invites Participants to Discover Flores’ Traditions and Culture

The Camino de Flores programme took 70 participants on a 25.5-kilometre walk through churches, traditional villages and religious institutions in Flores, offering a close-up experience of local spirituality, culture and daily life. Organisers say the route could strengthen Catholic religious tourism, spread visitors more widely across the island and create new economic opportunities for local communities.

2027 Regional Budget Deficits Capped at 2.5%, Local Governments Cannot Borrow Freely

Indonesia has capped regional budget deficits in 2027 at 2.5% of projected regional revenue, with any higher deficit requiring approval from the Finance Minister and compliance with debt-sustainability conditions. The regulation also sets aggregate deficit and borrowing limits, mandates regular reporting, and allows delays to central government transfers for local governments that fail to report their debt positions.

14 Homes Destroyed in Fire in West Jakarta’s Tamansari

A fire in a densely populated neighbourhood in Tamansari, West Jakarta, destroyed 14 homes and affected about 39 families, or more than 100 people. No deaths were reported, and local officials are coordinating emergency food and essential supplies while police investigate the cause.

Facing Geopolitical Shifts and AI, BI Governor Urges Indonesia to Strengthen Industrialisation

Bank Indonesia Governor Destry Damayanti says Indonesia must deepen downstream processing and revive industrialisation to remain competitive amid geopolitical tensions and advances in artificial intelligence. She also highlighted the need for productive investment, stronger domestic value chains and coordinated long-term planning, with Danantara potentially helping to unlock strategic projects and encourage private-sector investment.

63,789 Workers Laid Off; Parliament Urges Government to Ensure Companies Fulfil Their Rights

A lawmaker has urged the government to ensure that companies meet the entitlements of workers laid off, while improving support to help them find new jobs. The call follows Labour Ministry figures showing 63,789 workers reported layoffs from January to September 2026, with West Java accounting for the largest share.

Madiun Murder Suspect Reported His Wife and Child Missing Last Month

A man suspected of murdering Dini Hardiyanti and her four-year-old son in Madiun had joined the victims’ family in reporting them missing, causing them to be believed missing for about a month. East Java Police say investigators uncovered inconsistencies and are now examining the alleged killings, disposal of the bodies and possibility of other people’s involvement.

Customs Foils Illegal Gold Exports Worth Rp61.9 Billion in October

Indonesia’s Directorate General of Customs and Excise seized 25.88 kilograms of gold, valued at Rp61.95 billion, in suspected illegal export attempts at five international airports during October 2026. The agency said most suspects were foreign nationals travelling overseas and that enforcement involved coordination with police, the military, prosecutors and airport authorities.

In a Fast-Paced World, Psychologist Highlights the Importance of Managing Social Media Use

Clinical psychologist Atharana Aliyya warns that excessive social media use can fuel unfavourable comparisons, undermine self-confidence and leave people preoccupied with others’ achievements. She recommends tracking personal growth and making time for healthy recreation, as Indonesia’s 2023 Health Survey found depression among 1.4 per cent of people aged over 15—about 2.5 million to 3 million people.

Rosan Discusses Deepening Nickel Downstreaming and Stainless Steel with Tsingshan

Investment Minister Rosan Perkasa Roeslani says the government and Tsingshan Holding Group have discussed deepening nickel processing and developing Indonesia’s stainless-steel industry. The talks aim to build domestic industrial capacity and strengthen the country’s position in global supply chains, although no investment value, production targets or specific follow-up arrangements have been disclosed.

Truck Driver’s Boss Re-enacts 36 Scenes in Fatal Burning Case, Watched by Victim’s Family

Police in Karangasem held a reconstruction of the case in which truck driver I Gede Slamet died after allegedly being set alight by his employer, I Putu Cahyadi Putra. The suspect re-enacted 36 scenes as investigators completed additional steps requested by prosecutors to clarify the case ahead of trial.

Official: BLU to Handle Fuel and LPG Imports, Pertamina to Become Buyer

Indonesia has changed its fuel and LPG import arrangements under Presidential Regulation No. 107 of 2026, appointing the Lemigas public service agency (BLU) as importer while Pertamina will purchase supplies from it. Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia says the government-to-government and government-to-business framework is intended to speed procurement and reduce the risk of suppliers diverting agreed supplies to higher-paying buyers.

Central Kalimantan Governor Meets Residents and Hears Their Concerns Amid Forest and Land Fires

Central Kalimantan Governor Agustiar Sabran has continued meeting residents in person to hear their needs while forest and land fires are being tackled. At a recent visit in Palangka Raya, the provincial government distributed food packages and cash assistance, provided free health checks, and handed out masks and vitamins, while stressing that aid must reach eligible households based on verified data.

Home Affairs Minister proposes targeted subsidies to curb inflation at year-end

Home Affairs Minister Muhammad Tito Karnavian has proposed targeted electricity, fuel and air-transport subsidies to help prevent annual inflation from exceeding 3.5% in December 2026, when holiday demand is expected to rise. He said inflation was 3.28% year on year in September, within the government’s 2.5% target with a tolerance band of 1.5 percentage points.

Media Funding Bill Sparks Concern as Thousands Take to the Streets

Thousands protested in Prague after lawmakers backed a proposal to replace household licence fees for Czech public broadcasters with direct state-budget funding. Critics say the change could expose public media to political pressure and cut funding by about 15%, while Prime Minister Andrej Babiš insists the reform is intended to improve transparency.

Ciledug Vehicle Registration Office Blocks McLaren After Viral Tax Demand to Mechanic

The Ciledug vehicle registration office has blocked the registration of a McLaren 570S after a mechanic was wrongly billed Rp137 million in tax for a car he says he never owned. Authorities suspect the ownership data was manipulated and are coordinating with police to establish who owns the vehicle; the mechanic says the false record could also affect his banking data.

Halal Mandate Delay Creates an Opportunity to Strengthen Support in Transmigration Areas

The government has moved the deadline for mandatory halal certification for certain food, beverage and slaughter-related products from October 2026 to October 2028, citing the need for effective implementation and legal certainty. The extension gives businesses more time to prepare, while highlighting gaps in documentation, costs and support infrastructure; the Indonesian Ulema Council has objected to the delay.

Danantara Undertakes Major Restructuring of 1,074 State-Owned Enterprises

Danantara Indonesia is restructuring 1,074 state-owned companies to streamline overlapping operations, reduce costs and improve performance. COO Dony Oskaria said 97% of dividends come from just eight companies, while a five-year transformation roadmap begins with consolidation and restructuring.

JCI Closes Down 1.2% at 5,373

Indonesia’s benchmark Jakarta Composite Index fell 1.22% to 5,373.09 on Monday, with 542 shares declining and trading value reaching Rp12.6 trillion. Investors face a packed week of central-bank decisions and economic data, including US inflation and growth figures, which could influence global risk appetite, the rupiah and foreign flows into Indonesian government bonds.

Rumours of BPJS Abolition Swirl; House Commission IX Says It Is Barred by Law

A social media rumour that Indonesia’s BPJS health insurance programme would be abolished and transferred to health clinics run by the Merah Putih Village Cooperative has been dismissed by House Commission IX Deputy Chairman Yahya Zaini. He said BPJS is established by law and already covers 98% of the population, while calling for improvements to services, arrears collection and access to communication channels.

ADBI Dean: Indonesia Must Strengthen SMEs to Help Them Move into the Formal Sector

Asian Development Bank Institute Dean and CEO Bambang Brodjonegoro says Indonesia should help small and medium-sized enterprises move from the informal to the formal economy to build stronger, more sustainable growth. He also urged policymakers to draw lessons from Japan and South Korea, including time-limited industrial support and greater investment in company-led research and development.

Singapore Embassy Denies Claims of Meeting with Indonesian Figures

Singapore’s Embassy in Jakarta and former deputy foreign minister Dino Patti Djalal have denied social media claims that Dino and professor Saiful Mujani visited the ambassador’s residence on 18 October 2026. The embassy called the claims disinformation and said it would work with Indonesia’s Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs to address them, while Dino suggested the allegations were intended to intimidate people exercising freedom of expression.

BMKG Says 15 Aircraft Deployed for Weather Modification in Three Provinces

Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has deployed 15 aircraft for weather-modification operations in Central Kalimantan, South Kalimantan and South Sumatra to support efforts to combat forest and land fires. The operation, directed by President Prabowo Subianto and coordinated with several government agencies and the military, aims to increase the likelihood of rain, while BMKG is mapping high-risk areas through November.

Lebak Police Foil Smuggling of 32,000 Lobster Juveniles; One Arrested

Police in Lebak, Banten, have arrested a 40-year-old man and seized about 32,000 juvenile lobsters allegedly being transported for resale in Sukabumi, West Java. Investigators are tracing the stock’s origin and any others involved, while the suspect faces charges under Indonesia’s Fisheries Law.

Global Internet at Risk of Collapse as Komdigi Issues Warning

Indonesia’s Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs has warned of two critical PHP vulnerabilities that could allow unauthenticated remote code execution and memory disclosure. The flaws affect a wide range of PHP versions and web server configurations, with active exploitation reported; administrators are urged to install the emergency updates and check server logs.

AI Threatens Jobs? It Could Also Be an Opportunity

Artificial intelligence is automating routine work, but its impact will depend on how well workers, businesses and universities adapt. Ida Zuniarti argues that combining digital skills with human capabilities—and using AI responsibly—can help create new value rather than simply displace workers.

Insufficient Evidence: Metro Jaya Police Drop Cryptocurrency Fraud Investigation

Metro Jaya Police have discontinued two investigations into alleged cryptocurrency fraud involving content creator Timothy Ronald, citing the absence of a criminal offence in one report and insufficient evidence in the other. A special case review is planned at the request of one complainant’s lawyer, and police say complainants may submit new evidence.

OJK Responds to Dasco’s Proposal for Indonesia to Set Its Own Stock Market Rating After MSCI Controversy

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has welcomed parliamentary support for reforms to Indonesia’s capital market, but has not yet set out a position or concrete steps on Sufmi Dasco Ahmad’s proposal for Indonesia to determine its own market rating. The proposal follows controversy over MSCI’s plan to reclassify Indonesia from an emerging market to a standalone market; details of any domestic rating mechanism remain unspecified.

East Kalimantan Forest and Land Fires Decline Over the Past Three Days, BPBD Says

East Kalimantan’s disaster agency reported that daily forest and land fire incidents fell from 12 to 10 and then five between 23 and 25 October. Despite the recent decline, the province has recorded 2,388 fires so far this year, affecting thousands of hectares, and response teams remain on standby.

Environesia: Mangrove Rehabilitation Requires More Than Planting

Environesia founder Saprian says successful mangrove rehabilitation depends on choosing suitable sites, ongoing maintenance and monitoring, not simply planting seedlings. A coastal conservation event in Kulon Progo brought together environmental practitioners, students and community groups, highlighting the need for sustained involvement after planting.

Bahlil: Presidential Regulation 107/2026 marks a new era for fuel and LPG procurement

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia says Presidential Regulation No. 107 of 2026 will shift procurement of crude oil, fuels and LPG beyond Pertamina’s business-to-business tenders, allowing government-to-government and government-to-business arrangements. The government will assign a public service agency to negotiate agreements with supplier countries, as Indonesia continues to rely on imports for crude, LPG and some petrol grades; Bahlil said subsidised fuel prices would not rise and national fuel reserves remained at the minimum standard.

7 Benefits of Crying for Physical and Mental Health

Crying can help relieve stress, improve mood and sleep, ease pain and strengthen relationships by prompting emotional release and support from others. Tears also help protect the eyes from infection and keep the surface hydrated, supporting clear vision.

Zero-Down-Payment Offer Becomes a Key Tool in Sharia Vehicle Financing

Mandiri Utama Finance’s MUF Syariah unit is using a zero per cent down-payment offer and other incentives to attract customers at the BSI International Expo 2026. The promotion comes as its Sharia financing receivables grew 16.4 per cent year on year to Rp8.7 trillion by September 2026, with the company also highlighting its partnership with Bank Syariah Indonesia and trade-in services.

South Jakarta Transport Agency Cracks Down on Illegal Motorbike Parking Near Gandaria City

South Jakarta’s Transport Sub-agency removed nine motorbikes parked illegally near Gandaria City Mall after receiving complaints from the public. The operation involved towing and other enforcement teams, while one online motorcycle-taxi driver said his work motorbike was taken while he was collecting an order.

Christians Named Muhammad: How Jordan’s Cohesion Was Torn Apart by Terrorism

A deadly attack on a Greek Orthodox church in Jordan’s Al-Karak province has highlighted longstanding social and cultural ties between the country’s Muslim and Christian communities. Among those killed was Christian dentist Muhammad Qassous, whose name reflects a broader tradition in some Jordanian Christian families and his father’s convictions.

Finance Minister Says Government Bond Issuance Remains on Target

Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara said government bond issuance remains in line with the 2026 target, set against a budget deficit target of 2.85 per cent of GDP. By 30 September, net bond issuance had reached Rp497.5 trillion, or 62.2 per cent of its target, while debt financing stood at Rp494.3 trillion.

Coordinating Minister: Rehabilitation and Reconstruction after Sumatra Disasters 96–98% Complete

Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture Sugiono said the government’s post-disaster rehabilitation and reconstruction efforts in Aceh, North Sumatra and West Sumatra are 96–98% complete after 11 months. While most health facilities have reopened, work continues on some schools and temporary and permanent housing, with officials urged to accelerate recovery and strengthen disaster mitigation.

Sente Landfill in Klungkung Catches Fire, Smoke Still Billowing

A fire at Sente landfill in Klungkung, Bali, was largely extinguished after breaking out on Saturday, but crews were still cooling the site three days later as smoke continued to rise. Health officials have examined 25 nearby residents and distributed masks; no serious health complaints have been reported so far.

Indonesia Offers 43 Oil and Gas Discoveries for Development

SKK Migas is seeking investors to develop 43 oil and gas discoveries in basins still at the exploration stage, alongside opportunities in producing and frontier basins. The agency says investment will depend in part on legal and investment certainty and attractive fiscal incentives, as Indonesia seeks to convert its resource potential into production and meet national targets.

Historic Victory for Brazil’s Pro-Palestinian Presidential Candidate Deals Blow to Donald Trump

Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has won Brazil’s presidential run-off with 51.76 per cent of valid votes, defeating Flávio Bolsonaro by more than four million votes and securing an unprecedented fourth term. Lula’s victory overturns his second-place finish in the first round and blocks the Bolsonaro family’s bid to return to the presidency; he has pledged to govern for all Brazilians.

Pramono Ready to Build Transjabodetabek Bus Stops in Bekasi

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has offered to help build Transjabodetabek bus stops in Bekasi, as the city’s mayor said construction is under way and targeted for completion in November. The proposal comes amid rising ridership and a push to improve public transport links between Jakarta and surrounding areas.

Tito Proposes Electricity and Fuel Subsidies Ahead of Christmas and New Year: Why?

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian has proposed electricity, fuel and air-transport subsidies to curb inflation as travel and demand rise over the Christmas and New Year holidays. He also urged airlines to avoid charging the maximum permitted fares, while calling for social assistance and market operations; the proposals will be discussed further by the government with President Prabowo Subianto.

Singapore Explores Nuclear and Geothermal Energy to Strengthen Energy Transition

Singapore is accelerating assessments of nuclear and geothermal power as it seeks reliable, low-carbon electricity to meet rising demand, given the city-state’s limited land and renewable-energy potential. It plans an IAEA readiness review in 2027, but has not decided whether to adopt nuclear power, while also weighing the constraints of solar and hydrogen.

Like Horror Films? Here’s What They Do to Your Brain and Body

Horror films can trigger physical stress responses and heightened brain activity, even when viewers know the danger is fictional. The article also notes potential benefits, including a sense of relief, stimulation of critical thinking and, for some people with anxiety or OCD, a way to practise confronting fear.

PPRO Reshuffles Board of Directors: Here Is the New Line-up

PT PP Properti Tbk (PPRO) has appointed Adi Suryolaksono as Director of Business Management and HCM, while shareholders approved changes to the titles of two director posts. The extraordinary shareholders’ meeting also confirmed the honourable dismissal of Nurjaman, establishing a revised board line-up intended to improve coordination across business, finance and human resources.

Andrea Bocelli Concert: Religious Affairs Ministry Backs MUI Stance and Urges Public to Verify Information

The Religious Affairs Ministry says it supports the Indonesian Ulema Council’s position on the planned Andrea Bocelli concerts at Borobudur Temple and in Jakarta, amid public controversy. It has also urged people to approach reports maturely, seek clarification and balance religious considerations with space for arts and culture.

Bareskrim Seizes and Freezes 110 Assets in Case File Against FH in PT DSI Case

Indonesia’s Criminal Investigation Department has seized or frozen 110 land and building assets linked to the alleged investment fraud and money-laundering case involving PT Dana Syariah Indonesia. Investigators say assets traced across four case clusters are now worth more than Rp500 billion, while restitution sought for 5,102 victims totals Rp1.07 trillion.

NTB DPRD Seeks Ministry of Law’s Confirmation After Receiving Akri-Marga Harun Recall Letters

The NTB Regional Legislative Council has received proposals to replace PPP lawmakers Moh Akri and Marga Harun but is holding off until the Ministry of Law confirms the letters’ legal validity. The dispute stems from competing claims over leadership of PPP’s NTB branch, and the ministry’s response will guide whether the proposals proceed to a plenary session.

Dwi Bagus Suspected of Burning Common-Law Wife’s and Child’s Bodies in Backyard Furnace

Police are investigating three locations in Madiun in connection with the suspected murder of Dini Hardiyanti and her four-year-old child, including a furnace behind a house where the suspect lived. Investigators are examining evidence suggesting the victims may have been mutilated and their bodies burned, while questioning the suspect and working to establish the sequence of events and motive.

Saudi Arabia Strikes Houthi Missile Launchers After Riyadh Airport Attack

The Saudi-led coalition says it destroyed Houthi missile launchers, a depot and tunnels after the group claimed a fresh attack on Riyadh’s international airport. The latest exchanges follow repeated Houthi attacks and the collapse of a multi-year ceasefire, raising tensions between Saudi Arabia and the Yemen-based movement.

Luhut Proposes That State Losses Should Not Constitute Corruption; Law Minister Says It Is Only a Proposal

Law Minister Supratman Andi Agtas says a proposal by National Economic Council chair Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan to redefine corruption remains under discussion, with the Government yet to consider amending the law. Luhut argues that state losses should not in themselves be classified as corruption, citing Indonesia’s ratification of the UN Convention against Corruption and concerns about the impact on state-owned businesses.

Indonesia Says Rice Stocks Are Secure for the Next 10 Months and Rules Out Imports

Agriculture Minister and National Food Agency head Amran Sulaiman says Indonesia has 25 million tonnes of rice available, enough to meet demand until July or August 2027, and has not imported rice in 2025 or 2026. He also says measures including irrigation improvements, pumping and drought-resistant seeds are intended to protect supplies from El Niño.

Bahlil Speaks Out on Gas Export Cuts to Singapore, Insists Contract Has Not Been Breached

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia says Indonesia has reduced gas exports to Singapore by 31 MMBTUD, about 8 per cent of the total, while remaining within the minimum supply limits set out in the contract. He attributes the adjustment to maintenance work and rising domestic demand, and says Indonesia continues to honour its contractual commitments.

Customs Foils Smuggling of 25.88kg of Gold Abroad, Worth Rp61bn

Indonesia’s Directorate General of Customs and Excise foiled attempts to smuggle 25.88kg of gold, valued at Rp61 billion, out of the country during October 2026. The cases were detected at five international airports, with suspects and evidence secured as investigators coordinate with the National Police and prosecutors; authorities also cited enforcement against illegal gold mining and processing networks.

Communications Minister Praises Free Health Checks for Senior Journalists

Communications and Digital Affairs Minister Meutya Hafid has welcomed free health checks for members of the Indonesian Senior Journalists’ Union, noting that senior journalists may neglect medical care because of work demands. She stressed that screening must be followed by access to the medical services participants need, and said senior journalists’ experience remains valuable to younger reporters and public information quality.

Law Minister to Review Constitutional Court Ruling Calling for Military Courts Law to Be Amended

Law Minister Supratman Andi Agtas says the government will examine the Constitutional Court’s ruling requiring lawmakers to amend the Military Courts Law within two years, while respecting the decision. The ruling says ordinary crimes allegedly committed by Indonesian military personnel should generally be tried in civilian courts, with a limited exception for wartime offences in combat zones.

Interim Ruling Rejects Objection, Opening New Phase in Former Jampidsus Febrie Case

The Jakarta Corruption Court has rejected former Jampidsus Febrie Adriansyah’s preliminary objection and ordered prosecutors to proceed with presenting evidence and witnesses. Febrie and two others face charges of extorting Rp55 billion from businessman Tan Kian and laundering Rp350 billion; the court will assess the merits of the money-laundering allegations after the evidentiary phase.

World Investment Forum 2026 opens amid economic uncertainty

The 2026 World Investment Forum has opened in Doha, bringing together more than 5,000 participants to discuss global investment challenges and ways to increase capital flows to developing countries. The event comes amid geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainty, while a recent UNCTAD report found investment in sectors critical to developing countries had fallen by more than 25 per cent.

BRILink Agent Fillio Successfully Expands Access to Financial Services

Rahmi’s BRILink Agent Fillio in Dumai, Riau, has grown from a mobile-phone credit kiosk into a four-outlet network offering everyday financial transactions to residents and local businesses. BRI says its nationwide agent network exceeded one million by the end of September 2026, serving about 750 million transactions worth Rp1,270 trillion and extending banking access to around 80% of Indonesia’s villages.

USU Lecturer Studies Bosi-Bosi Leaves for Potential Breast Cancer Benefits

A University of North Sumatra research team has used environmentally minded extraction techniques to investigate bioactive compounds in bosi-bosi leaves and their effects on breast cancer cells. Laboratory tests found antioxidant activity and signs of cell-cycle arrest and programmed cell death, but the findings are preliminary and do not establish the extract as a treatment.

Home Affairs Minister and BMKG Chief Arrive at the Presidential Palace

Several Red and White Cabinet officials arrived at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta after being summoned by the President. BMKG chief Teuku Faisal Fathani said he would discuss forest and land fires and preparations for hydrometeorological disasters, amid forecasts of a delayed rainy season and heightened flood-related risks.

Storms Batter Europe: UK, France and Germany Hit, Flights Disrupted

Storms Boelo and Austen swept across northern Europe, killing one person, cutting power to hundreds of thousands of homes and disrupting transport and mobile networks. Airports cancelled or diverted hundreds of flights, while authorities issued flood warnings and climate experts cautioned that climate change may increase the risk of extreme weather.

Car at Cibubur Showroom Suspected of Being Hit by Stray Bullet; Police Investigate

A car parked at a showroom in Cibubur, East Jakarta, was found with a dent in its bonnet after staff heard an impact and discovered a projectile nearby. Police have inspected the scene, questioned witnesses and seized the projectile as they investigate the incident.

Hotman Paris Warns Indonesia of Potential Singapore Claim over Gas Export Cuts, with Assets at Risk of Seizure

Lawyer Hotman Paris has urged the Indonesian government to consider the risk of international arbitration over reduced natural gas exports to Singapore. He says a contract dispute could lead to substantial damages and, depending on the applicable law and process, enforcement against assets; the outcome would hinge on the contract and the facts of any case.

ADBI Dean: Indonesia Must Strengthen SMEs to Move Them into the Formal Sector

Asian Development Bank Institute Dean Bambang Brodjonegoro says Indonesia should help informal small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) formalise and become more integrated into industrial supply chains. Drawing lessons from Japan and South Korea, he called for time-limited industrial support, greater company-led research and development, SME training and fairer business practices to help smaller firms compete and grow.

The State Budget Accounts for Just 15% of GDP: Suahasil Reveals What Really Drives the Economy

Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara said the state budget represents only about 14–15% of Indonesia’s GDP, with households and businesses accounting for much of the remaining economic activity. He urged the government to coordinate economic players and target public spending where it has the greatest impact, while securing adequate revenue and maintaining fiscal stability and credibility.

Motorcyclist Dies After Crashing into Barrier at Pondok Indah Underpass

A 24-year-old motorcyclist died at the scene after crashing into the entrance barrier of the Pondok Indah underpass in South Jakarta. Police said the single-vehicle accident occurred on Monday morning and may have been caused by a lack of caution and concentration.

Pushan Gives Prabowo-Gibran Government’s Legal Sector Performance a Positive Assessment

The Pushan Centre for the Study of Government Law and Anti-Corruption rates the legal sector’s performance during the first two years of President Prabowo Subianto and Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s administration positively, citing political support for law enforcement and anti-corruption efforts. It nevertheless identifies five priorities, including prosecuting corruption in strategic sectors, reforming law enforcement institutions, improving governance, strengthening legal policy and evaluating public officials.

APQO-IC 2026 in Sanur: 14 Countries Discuss Business Challenges in the AI Era

Around 550 participants from 14 countries are attending the Asia Pacific Quality Organization International Conference in Bali, where the expanding use of AI in business is a central topic. Speakers said companies must use AI effectively while balancing immediate competitiveness with long-term relevance amid geopolitical shifts, changing consumer preferences and ESG expectations.

Jak Japan Matsuri Returns, Blending Japanese and Betawi Cultures

Jak Japan Matsuri 2026 will take place at Gelora Bung Karno in Jakarta on 31 October and 1 November, featuring cultural activities that bring Japanese traditions and Indonesian, particularly Betawi, culture together. Organisers hope the festival’s interactive programme will foster interest among young people and strengthen ties between Indonesia and Japan.

Garuda-Pelita Air Merger: Danantara Says Conditions Must First Be Right

Danantara Indonesia and the state-owned enterprises agency do not plan to merge Garuda Indonesia and Pelita Air in the near term. Both airlines must first improve their performance, with Garuda completing a successful business transformation, before any merger is considered.

Absent During Bali’s Fuel Crisis, Giri Prasta Speaks Out

Bali Deputy Governor I Nyoman Giri Prasta says his absence from Governor Wayan Koster’s inspections of petrol stations reflected an agreed division of responsibilities, not a lack of involvement. He says he attended the initial meeting on the fuel shortage, where officials’ assurances that supplies would soon be restored proved inaccurate, and called for a reserve fuel depot in Bali to prevent a repeat.

PU Builds 100 Sekolah Rakyat Schools Across 32 Provinces, Employing 97,000 Workers

The Public Works Ministry is building the second phase of 100 Sekolah Rakyat schools across 32 provinces, with capacity for 122,000 pupils and 97,000 local workers employed. The government says the programme will widen access to education for disadvantaged children while stimulating local economies, and plans a third phase at 100 more sites.

Insurance Inclusion Remains Low as Generali Expands Agency Network

Indonesia’s insurance literacy index stood at 45.45 per cent in the 2025 national survey, while insurance inclusion was only 28.50 per cent. Generali Indonesia has opened a new agency office in South Tangerang to widen access to insurance advice and protection, as its agency channel’s new-business sales grew 44 per cent year on year in 2025.

Suahasil Highlights Indonesia’s Strengths, Rarely Found Elsewhere

Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara said Indonesia’s abundant natural resources and human capital provide a strong foundation for national development. He outlined five priorities for turning those advantages into sustained economic progress: improving human and physical capital, reforming institutions and structures, and maintaining economic and social stability.

UNM Data Science Student Builds AI Career Through Internships and Competitions

Abira Wisnunggal, a final-year Data Science student at Universitas Nusa Mandiri, has developed AI and data skills through internships, research projects and competitions. His experience includes work with Indonesia’s National Research and Innovation Agency and a bronze medal at PeDaS x APTIKOM 2025, highlighting the value of practical experience in preparing students for careers in technology.

BBTE 2026 in Magelang to Strengthen Tourism Business Networks

The Borobudur & Beyond Tourism Expo (BBTE) 2026 will bring tourism businesses together with travel agents, tour operators and other buyers through pre-arranged business meetings. Organisers say the event will promote local destinations and businesses while supporting economic activity in Magelang and Central Java.

Good News: Non-Civil-Service Teachers’ Allowances Fully Disbursed

Education Minister Abdul Mu’ti says all professional allowances for non-civil-service teachers covering July to September have been transferred, at Rp2 million per month. Eligible teachers whose data has been validated will receive Rp6 million in total; those still awaiting payment can contact the ministry’s complaints channels.

Golkar Holds ‘From Zero to Hero’ Short Film Competition for Its 62nd Anniversary

Golkar is holding a public short-film competition for its 62nd anniversary, inviting entrants to tell stories of people overcoming adversity to become heroes in their families or communities. The contest has Real Actor and AI film categories, with Rp200 million in prizes and a study trip to Busan for two winners; entries are open until 15 November.

Three Trade Ministry Programmes Boost Trade Performance in Cabinet’s First Two Years

Indonesia’s Trade Ministry says its three priority programmes have supported domestic products, expanded export access and strengthened local businesses during the Red and White Cabinet’s first two years. The ministry reported exports of US$193.64 billion in January–August 2026, alongside substantial domestic product penetration, export deal prospects and assistance for small businesses.

Pertamina No Longer Free to Import Fuel as New Public Service Agency Mechanism Introduced

Indonesia has changed the procurement system for fuel, crude oil and LPG, placing a public service agency (BLU) at the centre of imports under Presidential Regulation No. 107 of 2026. Pertamina will generally buy supplies from the agency, although direct imports remain possible in exceptional circumstances, such as critically low national reserves or geopolitical disruption, subject to coordination with the BLU.

Prabowo Calls In Home Affairs Minister and BMKG Chief to Discuss Forest Fires and Disaster Mitigation

President Prabowo Subianto convened a limited meeting at the Presidential Palace to review forest and land fire response and preparations for meteorological disasters. The BMKG chief warned that the rainy season is expected to arrive 20–30 days late under the influence of El Niño, with heavier rainfall concentrated over a shorter period, prompting calls for early mitigation.

South Jakarta Transport Agency Seizes Nine Motorcycles in Illegal Parking Crackdown Opposite Gandaria City

South Jakarta’s Transport Sub-agency seized nine motorcycles during a crackdown on illegal parking along Jalan M Syafii Hadzami, opposite Gandaria City. The motorcycles had been parked on the pavement, obstructing pedestrians; an attendant and two ride-hailing drivers protested that their vehicles were taken while they were away.

Kampung Ambon Raided Again as Jakarta Police Arrest Seven

Jakarta Metro Police arrested seven people during a raid in Kampung Ambon, West Jakarta, following public reports of suspected drug trafficking. Six tested positive for drugs, while officers seized synthetic tobacco, weapons and other items; the suspects and evidence were taken in for further processing.

Latin American leaders congratulate Lula on victory

Leaders across Latin America and US Senator Bernie Sanders congratulated Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva after his re-election as Brazil’s president, praising the democratic process. Their messages also emphasised continued cooperation with Brazil on regional integration, development and shared priorities.

Sahroni Raises Fake Diploma Issue During Meeting with Students

Deputy House Commission III chairman Ahmad Sahroni urged students aspiring to become presidents or lawmakers to develop intelligence and be useful in all settings. He said genuine educational certificates are necessary for public-office registration, while recounting students’ ambitions during a discussion about a proposed asset-forfeiture bill.

Police Raid Kampung Ambon Again: Seven Arrested, Bladed Weapons and Synthetic Cannabis Seized

Jakarta police arrested seven people during a raid in Kampung Ambon following public reports of suspected drug trafficking. Six tested positive for drugs, while officers seized synthetic cannabis, 15 bladed weapons and other items; police urged residents to report suspected drug activity.

KPK Leaders Reported to Oversight Board for Lack of Action over Nusron Wahid’s Failure to Appear

MAKI coordinator Boyamin Saiman has complained to the Corruption Eradication Commission’s (KPK) Supervisory Board, accusing KPK leaders and investigators of failing to act decisively after Minister Nusron Wahid missed two summonses. He says the agency should issue an order to bring in witnesses who repeatedly fail to attend, warning that inaction could undermine the KPK’s authority and respect for the law.

MBSS Wins Coal Transportation Contract Worth Up to Rp6 Trillion from GEL Group

Mitrabahtera Segara Sejati (MBSS) has signed a five-year coal transportation agreement with Global Energi Lestari (GEL Group), covering up to 30 million tonnes and potentially generating about Rp1.2 trillion in annual revenue. The long-term volume commitment is expected to support MBSS’s planned fleet expansion from 2027, while serving both domestic and export markets.

Korpasgat Names Five TNI and Police Officials Honorary Members

The Indonesian Air Force’s Rapid Response Forces (Korpasgat) has named five senior military and police officials honorary members at a ceremony in West Java. The event included a special-forces demonstration and the presentation of Korpasgat insignia, with the honour framed as a symbol of closer TNI-Police cooperation.

Danantara Targets Rp 200 Trillion in Investment for 2026, Relying on SOE Dividends

Danantara Indonesia plans to channel Rp 200 trillion into investments this year, funded by dividends from state-owned enterprises rather than government fiscal surpluses. The investment target is underpinned by a goal to lift SOE net profit to Rp 360 trillion through restructuring and business-model transformations, which the agency says have already delivered substantial gains and savings at several companies.

Heart Patients Must Negotiate the Steep Kota Bambu Pedestrian Bridge

The Kota Bambu pedestrian bridge in West Jakarta remains difficult to use for older people and patients travelling to nearby hospitals, with steep stairs and no accessible facilities. A 71-year-old heart patient is urging the government to install a lift, while the bridge also lacks tactile guiding paths and has barriers that may impede wheelchair users.

Febrie Adriansyah Objects to Ferry Boboho Being Granted Witness Protection by LPSK

The legal team for former deputy attorney general for special crimes Febrie Adriansyah has lodged an objection with Indonesia’s Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) over its protection of Ferry Yanto Hongkiriwang, known as Ferry Boboho. The objection was submitted after a Jakarta Corruption Court panel ordered the extortion and money-laundering case against Febrie to proceed to the evidentiary stage.

North Kalimantan Provincial Government Adapts Free Nutritious Meals Services for Remote and Border Areas

North Kalimantan is tailoring delivery of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme to the province’s remote, border and island communities, including Krayan, where access is limited. The province is promoting local facilities, school canteens and locally sourced food while addressing supply challenges and enforcing a cap of 3,000 beneficiaries per nutrition service unit; the programme has reached 139,536 people, or 67.69 per cent of its target.

Geprek Sa’i and Hajj Chicken Distribute Food Aid to Gaza Residents

Geprek Sa’i and Hajj Chicken’s parent company, PT Ukhuwah Berkah Semesta, has provided 900 hot meals to 2,400 displaced people at two camps in northern Gaza, working with the Amanah Kemanusiaan Global Foundation (AMAL). The company says the assistance is part of an ongoing humanitarian programme funded by a share of customer purchases, as food shortages and logistical constraints continue to affect the area.

Hayatun Tour Launches Integrated Digital Platform to Serve Pilgrims Across Indonesia

Hayatun Tour has launched an integrated online platform and opened a new operational office in South Tangerang as it marks a decade in business. The company says the platform will let customers across Indonesia explore packages and register for Hajj, Umrah and halal tours, while retaining personal consultation and support.

Danantara Uncovers Layered SOE Businesses, Targets Trillions in Savings

Danantara says layered transactions among state-owned enterprises (SOEs) are inflating operating costs, citing Telkom’s fibre-optic construction and Pertamina’s shipping arrangements as examples. It estimates the inefficiencies cost US$2 billion annually and says consolidating units and closing loss-making companies could deliver substantial savings.

Minister: Allowance Transfers for Non-ASN Teachers 100% Complete

Education Minister Abdul Mu’ti said all professional allowances for non-ASN teachers covering July to September had been transferred by 10.30am on Monday. Eligible teachers whose data have been validated are due to receive Rp6 million in total; teachers with valid records who have not received payment by the end of October can report the issue through the ministry’s complaint channels.

Hotman Paris Warns Government Over Gas Export Cuts to Singapore: Beware of Arbitration Claims

Lawyer Hotman Paris Hutapea has warned that cutting gas exports to Singapore could expose Indonesia or a state-owned company to claims in international arbitration, potentially including substantial damages. He urged the government to prepare a professional commercial-litigation team, citing previous arbitration rulings against Indonesian parties and the possibility of asset enforcement under the New York Convention.

Suspected Rabid Dog Attacks Two Residents in Jembrana, Biting Their Legs and Face

Two residents of Sumbersari village in Jembrana were bitten by the same suspected rabid stray dog, with one suffering a facial wound requiring anti-rabies serum. Authorities have collected a brain sample for laboratory testing and will conduct emergency vaccinations in the area if rabies is confirmed; Jembrana recorded 81 confirmed rabies-bite cases from January to October 2026.

Public Works Ministry Strengthens River Embankments After Flooding in Central Tapanuli

The Public Works Ministry is repairing and raising river embankments in Central Tapanuli after intense rainfall triggered flooding across several districts. Alongside emergency assistance, including temporary shelters and clean-water support, the ministry is inspecting vulnerable river sections and preparing longer-term measures to reduce the risk of future floods.

SKK Migas Targets Realisation of Production Potential Through 12 Wells

SKK Migas expects 12 high-impact wells planned for 2026 to deliver about 2.2 billion barrels of oil equivalent (BBOE), or roughly 80 per cent of its pre-drill resource target. The agency says the figures remain estimates, while stressing that exploration success will depend on disciplined execution and high-quality subsurface data.

Sidkon Djampi Urges Continued Push for Cirebon Cleric’s National Hero Nomination

West Java provincial legislator Sidkon Djampi has urged the provincial government to intensify efforts to secure National Hero status for KH Abbas Abdul Jamil of Buntet Pesantren in Cirebon. A provincial recommendation was submitted to the central government through the Ministry of Social Affairs about three years ago, and Sidkon says it should be followed up through closer coordination.

PC Sales Plummet Worldwide, Laptop Retailers Struggle

Global PC shipments fell 21% year on year to 57 million units in the third quarter of 2026, as soaring component costs pushed up prices and discouraged consumers from replacing devices. Counterpoint expects the downturn to deepen in the fourth quarter, with shipments forecast to fall 27% year on year, and predicts a largely stagnant market in 2027.

Danantara Studies Two Textile Investment Options to Create Jobs

Danantara is weighing whether to acquire an existing textile company or build a new factory, with job creation and a stronger domestic supply chain among its priorities. It has not confirmed a possible acquisition of Sritex or set an investment value, while the Industry Ministry reports growth in textile output and exports and targets higher employment in the sector.

On Gas Export Cuts, Bahlil Says Indonesia Is a Country That Honours Contracts

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia said Indonesia’s 31 MMBTUD reduction in piped gas exports to Singapore remains within the minimum supply threshold set by contract, so no breach has occurred. He attributed the cut to maintenance and rising domestic demand, saying domestic needs must be prioritised while Indonesia continues to honour its agreements.

Elderly Woman Found Weak in Tabanan After Two-Day Search

Ni Wayan Natri, a 70-year-old woman reported missing from her home in Tabanan, was found alive beneath an irrigation channel about a kilometre away after a two-day search. She was weak and was taken for an initial examination before being referred to a local health centre for observation.

Family Shares Story of Ride-Hailing Driver Run Over by BYD: Hard-Working and Fond of Taking His Grandchildren Out

Hasan Syukur, a 56-year-old ride-hailing driver seriously injured after being run over by a BYD in South Jakarta, is described by his family as a tireless provider who continued working despite their pleas for him to return home. Police have named the BYD driver a suspect; he reportedly said he was daydreaming and drowsy before losing control of the car.

Judge Orders Prosecutors to Continue Presenting Evidence in Don Ritto–Nurman Case

A Jakarta corruption court has rejected the defendants’ preliminary objections for now and ordered prosecutors to proceed with the main trial in the alleged extortion and money-laundering case involving Don Ritto and Nurman Herin. The indictment was found sufficiently clear, while objections concerning the substance of the case will be considered in the final judgment; former deputy attorney general Febrie Adriansyah is accused of laundering up to Rp350 billion between 2020 and 2026.

393 Merah Putih Cooperatives Established in Bangka Belitung

All 393 villages and urban wards in Bangka Belitung now have an institutionally established Merah Putih cooperative, with 222 outlets having completed construction. The cooperatives are undergoing verification and validation before launching businesses planned to include staple-goods retail, pharmacies and LPG distribution, with the aim of serving local needs and supporting village economies.

North Korea Tells UN Security Council South Korea Staged Border Landmine Blast

North Korea has accused South Korea of engineering a landmine explosion in the Demilitarised Zone, claiming the incident was intended to provoke Pyongyang and shift blame for rising tensions. The accusation was made in a letter to the UN Security Council; Seoul has blamed North Korea for the blast, which injured three South Korean soldiers, while Pyongyang has denied responsibility.

Academic Ability Test in Central Kalimantan Postponed Due to Forest and Land Fires

Indonesia’s Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has approved postponing the 2026 Academic Ability Test in Central Kalimantan because forest and land fires could expose students to harmful smoke and affect their health. The tests will be rescheduled across four groups in November, giving students additional time to prepare while authorities await safer environmental conditions.

DPR Commission III Backs National Police Chief’s Move to Ban Vape Distribution

Golkar Party faction chairman on DPR Commission III Daniel Mutakin has voiced support for National Police Chief Suyudi Ario Seto’s efforts to combat drug trafficking, including a proposed ban on vape distribution because of its potential misuse. He said young people are among the victims of narcotics and called for firm action to protect the country’s future.

Defence Minister Says YTP Can Strengthen Indonesia’s Border Region in Papua

Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin said the presence of the 818/Yuboi Territorial Development Infantry Battalion in Merauke could bolster defence in strategically important South Papua, which borders another country. He said the unit’s role should extend beyond combat readiness to supporting local infrastructure, agriculture, livestock, healthcare and economic development.

November Approaches: Nine Indicators Show Whether Indonesia’s Economy Is Safe or in Danger

Indonesia enters November with growth, consumer activity and a sizeable trade surplus still supporting the economy, but the rupiah’s weakness, rising food inflation and mounting reported layoffs are increasing pressure. A sharp stock-market sell-off linked to MSCI’s review of Indonesia’s market classification has also unsettled investors, while key data due in early November will offer a fuller assessment of conditions heading into year-end.

Ministry calls for local potential to be harnessed to boost village economies

A ministry official says village self-reliance depends not only on infrastructure, but also on empowering local economies to create jobs and keep money circulating in communities. He cited Sekapuk in East Java, where a former limestone quarry was developed into a tourism destination, and said facilitators and active community participation are essential to turning local resources into economic activity.

Danantara Studies Two Textile Investment Options to Create Jobs

Danantara is weighing whether to acquire an existing textile company or build a new factory, with the aim of expanding employment and strengthening national production capacity. COO Dony Oskaria said any acquisition would need to include a business-model overhaul; the evaluation of a possible takeover of Sritex is still under way.

Minister for Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection Urges Santri to Take an Active Role in Nation-Building

Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection Minister Arifah Fauzi urged students at an Islamic boarding school in East Java to honour the legacy of those who fought for Indonesia’s independence by contributing to national development. She also stressed the importance of education, character-building and guidance from parents and teachers as children navigate challenges including digital technology.

Judge Orders Trial of Two Associates of Former Jampidsus Febrie to Continue

The Jakarta Corruption Court has rejected a request to halt proceedings against Don Ritto and Nurman Herin, ordering the prosecution to move their money-laundering cases into the evidentiary stage. The cases are linked to former Jampidsus Febrie Adriansyah, who is accused of extorting Rp55 billion and laundering hundreds of billions of rupiah and US$440,990.

Free Nutritious Meals Distribution to Remote Areas of South Halmahera Promotes Equal Access

A local nutrition service in South Halmahera distributes 2,356 Free Nutritious Meals packages each day to 27 schools and six villages in the remote Botang Lomang sub-district. Using two boats to reach outer-island communities, the programme aims to ensure schoolchildren and other vulnerable groups have better access to nutritious food.

Government to Make 19 Copyright Registration Services Free

The government will set fees at zero for 19 copyright and related-rights registration services, expanding a measure previously limited to song registrations. The policy is due to take effect permanently in November 2026, with the Ministry of Law planning to offset lost non-tax state revenue by boosting patent-related income.

Keeping the Forest Giant’s Last Breath Alive: How Aek Nauli Cares for Elephants

Aek Nauli Elephant Conservation Camp in North Sumatra cares for seven rescued Sumatran elephants, most of which had previously been involved in conflict with people. Daily forest foraging, supplementary feeding, routine health and weight checks, and support from Pertamina Patra Niaga help sustain their care, while the centre also provides educational visits and supports endemic orchid conservation.

Lebak Regency Government Urges Mass Lay-off Victims Who Have Yet to Receive Severance Pay to Report

Lebak Regency says the 1,100 workers laid off from shoe factory PT Parkland World Indonesia-6 have been paid severance in stages, and is asking anyone still unpaid to contact the local manpower office. The factory closed after the company decided not to renew its building lease, while the regency says it will prioritise former employees for jobs at other local firms.

Tourism Ministry Promotes Yogyakarta and Bali Gastronomy

The Tourism Ministry has hosted travel agents from Australia on a familiarisation trip showcasing gastronomic, cultural and wellness experiences in Yogyakarta and Bali. The initiative is intended to encourage Australian industry players to develop travel products highlighting Indonesian cuisine, while supporting tourism competitiveness and local economic benefits.

Danantara Delays State-Owned Airline Merger Pending Garuda Indonesia’s Turnaround

Danantara has postponed plans to merge state-owned airlines until Garuda Indonesia and the other company involved have improved their underlying performance, prioritising service upgrades and a possible rebrand for the national carrier. Garuda reported higher first-half 2026 revenue and a narrower net loss, but passenger numbers fell in 2025, underscoring the operational challenges that must be addressed before consolidation.

Indonesian Tycoon Who Made His Mark in Singapore, with Streets Named After Him

Oei Tiong Ham, the Semarang-born sugar magnate behind Oei Tiong Ham Concern, built a far-reaching business empire and acquired extensive property in Singapore, where institutions and a street still bear his name. His empire later collapsed after the Indonesian state seized its assets in 1961, which helped provide capital for the establishment of state-owned sugar company PT Rajawali Nusantara Indonesia.

Rice Production in Sumenep Regency Rises by 3.64 per cent

Rice production in Sumenep, East Java, reached 113,362 tonnes between January and November 2026, up 3.64 per cent year on year. Officials attribute the increase to expanded planting and harvested areas, higher paddy output, and collaboration between local government and agricultural extension workers supporting farmers.

Sugiono Dismisses Claims That BPJS Health Will Be Scrapped: ‘No Need to Respond’

Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture Sugiono dismissed social media claims that the government plans to abolish BPJS Health. The rumours, including a claim that its role would be taken over by clinics linked to the Merah Putih Village Cooperatives, had caused concern among independent members and people receiving subsidised contributions.

Home Affairs Minister Calls for Stronger Market Operations to Keep Food Prices Stable at Year-End

Home Affairs Minister Muhammad Tito Karnavian has urged agencies and local governments to strengthen food market operations ahead of Christmas 2026 and New Year 2027, using regional data to target interventions and support smooth distribution. He also called for expanded social assistance, while Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman said rice supplies are secure, with government reserves at about 4.5 million tonnes and domestic production continuing without imports.

Former Wonogiri Police Criminal Investigation Chief Dies After Seven Years in a Coma Following Assault

Kompol Aditia Mulya Ramdhani, a former criminal investigation chief in Wonogiri, has died after remaining in a coma for seven years following an assault while trying to break up a clash between pencak silat groups in 2019. Police say he received treatment in Indonesia and Singapore; dozens of people were named as suspects in the attack, while authorities have called for an end to mass brawls involving martial arts schools.

Rupiah Closes 0.39% Weaker as US Dollar Rises to Rp18,110

The rupiah fell 0.39% to Rp18,110 per US dollar, its weakest close since early June, amid domestic concerns over MSCI’s proposed changes to Indonesia’s equity-market classification and global market uncertainties. Bank Indonesia Governor Destry Damayanti said the central bank remains active in monitoring the currency and will assess the causes of its volatility.

Government Blocks 700,000 Business Entities for Failing to Report Beneficial Owners

Indonesia’s Ministry of Law has blocked around 700,000 companies and foundations for failing to disclose their beneficial owners, down from two million entities the previous year. The minister said the reporting requirement supports transparency and complete business records, and blocked entities will be listed as inactive.

Don’t Sell Without Data: Understand Consumers Before Promoting

In an increasingly digital marketplace, businesses must combine consumer insight and carefully interpreted data with empathy to make marketing effective and build lasting trust. The article also highlights the need for management education to equip students with digital, analytical and practical skills, while stressing responsible handling of consumer information.

BI Governor Calls for Deeper Downstream Processing and Reindustrialisation

Bank Indonesia Governor Destry Damayanti says Indonesia should revive industrialisation and extend downstream processing to capture more value from its natural resources, strengthen manufacturing and create jobs. She also urged Danantara to act as a catalyst for productive investment, while stressing the need for long-term planning, technology adoption and coordination to improve the country’s competitiveness.

Yusril: Islamic Preachers Play a Role in Preserving Unity and Strengthening Legal Awareness

Coordinating Minister Yusril Ihza Mahendra says Islamic preachers can help preserve national unity, promote legal awareness and support harmonious democratic life. He made the remarks at a national instructor-training programme, urging preachers to encourage respect, counter misinformation and teach constitutional responsibilities.

Bali Hotels and Restaurants Attract Rp12.49 Trillion in Investment

Bali attracted around Rp12.49 trillion in hotel and restaurant investment between January and September 2026, accounting for 29.25 per cent of Indonesia’s total in the sector. Bank Indonesia’s Bali office projects the island’s economy will grow by up to 5.9 per cent in 2026, above the 5.82 per cent recorded in 2025.

Banyumas Accelerates Preparations for the First 2026/2027 Planting Season

Banyumas is preparing to plant rice on around 15,000 hectares in October and November, with the district securing fertiliser, farm machinery, seeds and irrigation support. Around 250 water pumps are already in the field, while central government funding of about Rp40 billion is supporting irrigation works to help farmers cope with El Niño-related rainfall uncertainty.

Thousand Islands Says Mangroves Play a Vital Role in Protecting the Coastline

Thousand Islands officials say mangroves help protect shorelines by trapping sediment and reducing wave impacts, while also providing marine habitat and absorbing carbon. The local administration plans to plant 105,000 seedlings across five islands in November 2026, with community forestry groups supporting oversight and follow-up monitoring.

Sumbawa Regency Enlists Civil Servants and Neighbourhood Leaders as Social Protection Agents

Sumbawa Regency is mobilising civil servants, village officials and neighbourhood leaders to help residents use digital social protection services, particularly older people and those with limited digital skills. The local government says registration does not guarantee benefits: applicants’ eligibility will still be determined through data verification against established criteria.

BPJS Kesehatan Expands Access to JKN Services in Tanah Datar Through Public Service Mall

BPJS Kesehatan has opened an in-person JKN service desk at Tanah Datar’s Public Service Mall, reducing the need for residents to travel to its branch office in Payakumbuh. The initiative offers administrative assistance and complaints handling, and is intended to improve the district’s JKN participation and active membership rates, which lag behind neighbouring areas.

QRIS Has 71 Million Users as Bank Indonesia Considers Using It for Credit Scoring

Bank Indonesia Governor Destry Damayanti says QRIS transaction data could be used by financial services providers to assess users’ creditworthiness, potentially widening access to finance for small merchants. QRIS has reached 71 million users and 49.4 million merchants, 97% of them micro, small and medium-sized enterprises; the Financial Services Authority has welcomed the idea while stressing privacy, data validity and prudential safeguards.

Andre Rosiade Insists Sicincin–Bukittinggi Toll Road Must Protect Residents’ Rights

Andre Rosiade has called for transparent land acquisition and safeguards for residents’ access, livelihoods and environment as preparations proceed for the 40.8-kilometre Sicincin–Bukittinggi toll road. The project, estimated to cost Rp29 trillion, includes tunnels and requires land acquisition across Padang Pariaman; officials say public consultation, independent land valuation and local coordination will guide the process.

Zulhas Orders Faster Distribution of 1 Million Tonnes of Rice Aid to Deciles 1–4: Why?

Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan has ordered the accelerated distribution of about one million tonnes of rice to 33.2 million beneficiary households in the bottom four income deciles. The aid covers October to December 2026, with each household due to receive 30kg at once, a move the government says responds to public concerns about food prices.

Two Indonesian Air Force Hercules Aircraft Carry 4.6 Tonnes of Dry Ice for Weather Modification

The Indonesian Air Force has flown 4.6 tonnes of dry ice to Palembang and Banjarmasin to support cloud-seeding operations aimed at helping suppress forest and land fires. The military says the effort is intended to disperse smoke and aid firefighting, with transport aircraft continuing to support weather-modification operations.

IEA Says Asia Is Most Vulnerable to Global Energy Crisis

The International Energy Agency says Asia faces the greatest exposure to the global energy crisis, given its reliance on oil and liquefied natural gas from the Gulf. Executive Director Fatih Birol warned that energy markets are unlikely to return to pre-war conditions soon, prompting the agency to urge governments to reassess energy security strategies as prices surge.

IIF Provides Rp601.4 Billion in Financing for Digital and Healthcare Infrastructure

Indonesia Infrastructure Finance (IIF) has provided around Rp601.4 billion to support a 58.9 MW data centre in Bekasi and a specialist heart hospital in Medan. The funding backs the first phase of GAIA Campus and the development and operation of Medan Heart Center, expanding digital capacity and access to specialist cardiac care.

BSKDN: Data Integration Needed to Develop Smart Cities

The Home Affairs Ministry’s Domestic Policy Strategy Agency says Smart City initiatives must be built around local needs and supported by integrated data across public and private institutions. Recommendations from a study covering six Smart City pillars include linking social and poverty data, developing digital labour markets and improving services, while officials also stressed environmental sustainability and inclusive access.

Creative Economy Ministry and UN DESA Promote Equal Access for Creative Sector Participants

Indonesia’s Creative Economy Ministry and UN DESA are mapping barriers faced by creative businesses, including gaps in financing, infrastructure, networks and market access, to shape more inclusive policy. Findings from research involving ITB researchers are being validated with stakeholders and will inform recommendations for the national creative economy ecosystem.

Government Makes Copyright Registration Free for 19 Types of Works

Indonesia’s Ministry of Law has set registration fees at zero for 19 categories of copyright-protected works, and has also waived fees for requests to block piracy websites. The government says the measure is intended to strengthen the copyright ecosystem, while any resulting loss of non-tax state revenue will be offset by increasing revenue from patent licences.

Home Affairs Minister Highlights Past Price Spikes in Chicken, Eggs and Chillies

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian said food prices remain a priority for inflation control ahead of the Christmas and New Year period, noting that drought-driven shortages have pushed up the price of chillies. He also said chicken and egg prices had begun to fall after the government flagged a gap between low producer prices and higher consumer prices and proposed action against intermediaries suspected of contributing to the disparity.

Market Analysis (26 October 2026): Buy on Weakness

Kiwoom Sekuritas advises investors to remain cautious and selectively buy on weakness as the JCI’s technical recovery faces risks from foreign outflows and a rupiah trading above Rp18,000 per US dollar. The report also highlights global volatility ahead of the Federal Reserve decision, concerns about AI investment returns, elevated oil prices amid US-Iran tensions, and domestic forecasts for slower Indonesian growth in 2026.

Jakarta and Bekasi Extend Bantargebang Waste Processing Site Agreement

Jakarta and Bekasi have extended their partnership to manage the Bantargebang Integrated Waste Processing Site for a further five years, with cooperation covering environmental, health, social and public infrastructure programmes. The agreement also sets compensation arrangements and comes as Jakarta seeks to reduce its reliance on the site through waste sorting, refuse-derived fuel facilities and planned waste-to-energy development.

Finance Minister Suahasil Says Stability Is Essential for Progress

Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara says economic and social stability are vital prerequisites for Indonesia’s progress and have shaped his approach to managing the state budget. He has pledged to keep the budget deficit below 3% of GDP; by the end of September 2026, it stood at Rp319 trillion, or 1.24% of GDP.

Aceh Education Office: Academic Competency Test Runs Smoothly Without Disruption

Aceh’s Academic Competency Test (TKA) for senior secondary pupils has proceeded without reported problems across the province, including in areas affected by November 2025 floods. The test was taken by 59,810 pupils, while the Education Office is working towards equipping every school with computers by 2027 and has instructed schools in disaster-prone areas to prepare safer test locations.

MPR Inspectorate Opens Support Service for SIMPATIK Form Completion

The MPR RI Inspectorate is offering Microsoft account activation assistance to help staff complete conflict-of-interest disclosures through its SIMPATIK application, following its launch earlier in October. The initiative supports compliance with national regulations and anti-corruption measures, with the institution aiming to raise completion rates from 70 per cent to at least 80 per cent.

Medan Mayor Urges Hospitals Not to Turn Away BPJS Health Patients

Medan Mayor Rico Tri Putra Waas has called on hospitals in the city to treat patients covered by BPJS Kesehatan, including those whose membership has been temporarily deactivated. The city will summon a hospital following a reported refusal, while Waas stressed that Medan residents are covered by the government-funded Universal Health Coverage programme and should not worry about treatment costs.

Netanyahu Accuses Iran of Trying to Disrupt Israeli Election: ‘Don’t Try It’

Benjamin Netanyahu warned that Iran and its proxies could seek to disrupt Israel’s 27 October election, saying Israeli intelligence had detected a possible threat. The prime minister used his campaign to stress his security credentials, threaten a forceful response and assert that Israel’s military was prepared for defensive and offensive operations.

Mataram Mayor Urges Police to Crack Down on Gang Behind Machete Attack on Three Residents

Mataram Mayor Mohan Roliskana has urged police to identify and prosecute those responsible for a motorcycle-gang attack that left three young men critically injured. The city is appealing to parents to supervise their children more closely and has instructed local officials to keep residents informed about the security situation.

It’s Not Just McLaren: Other Luxury Cars Owe Up to Rp 1 Billion in Tax

Samsat Ciledug is pursuing luxury vehicles with unpaid motor vehicle tax, including a company’s fleet of eight to ten cars with arrears approaching Rp 1 billion. Officials suspect the company may be fictitious after finding that its registered address was occupied by a delivery company; a separate McLaren case involving Rp 137.4 million in arrears is also under investigation.

Expert Urges Indonesian Government to Prioritise Forest and Land Fire Prevention

An environmental law expert is calling on the Indonesian government to shift its forest and land fire strategy away from a predominantly punitive approach towards prevention, control and fair accountability. He argues that enforcement alone cannot address risks rooted in land governance, oversight, ecosystem damage, weather and inadequate prevention.

Son-in-Law Reveals Condition of Ojol Rider Run Over by BYD: Broken Leg and Punctured Lung

Hasan Syukur, a 56-year-old online motorcycle taxi driver, suffered a broken leg, fractures and a punctured lung after being struck by a BYD in Jakarta. He has undergone surgery and is stable, but remains sedated and reliant on oxygen; authorities say the BYD driver has been named a suspect after admitting he was distracted and drowsy.

It’s Not Just Food: This Habit Is Contributing to Childhood Obesity in Indonesia

Nearly one in five Indonesian children is overweight or obese, and the combined prevalence is projected to rise to 23.02 per cent by 2050. A paediatrician says sedentary screen habits, ultra-processed foods and poor sleep, alongside low physical activity, are key risk factors—so prevention must address children’s overall lifestyles, not weight alone.

Bank Indonesia Plans to Use QRIS Transactions as a Creditworthiness Indicator

Bank Indonesia plans to use QRIS transaction data to help assess creditworthiness, potentially widening access to finance for small businesses and the millions of merchants using the payment system. The move supports the central bank’s goal of more inclusive economic growth; QRIS and BI-FAST transactions both recorded strong year-on-year growth in the third quarter of 2026.

Memorising the Qur’an Is Now More Structured with the Help of AI

Researchers from Bina Sarana Informatika University and Telkom University have developed a structured dataset from 350 students at three Indonesian Islamic boarding schools to support AI-driven, personalised Qur’an memorisation plans. Their initial Hidden Markov Model analysis identified three learning stages, although low accuracy and recall indicate that the system remains cautious and needs further development, with teachers continuing to validate its recommendations.

Still Contracting Production in Bekasi, When Will Chery Build a Factory in Indonesia?

Chery Group has yet to confirm when or where it will build its own factory in Indonesia, despite plans first being discussed in 2022 and several shifts to its projected timetable. The company says it is assessing the investment and wants confidence in a stable, consistent business and regulatory environment, while continuing local assembly and pursuing greater use of domestic components, including battery localisation.

Jakarta Strengthens Coordination Between Schools and Parents for November Immunisation Month

Jakarta’s provincial government is coordinating with schools, health facilities and parents ahead of the November 2026 School Immunisation Month, aiming to achieve 90 per cent coverage and reach pupils who missed earlier vaccinations. August coverage stood at 88.98 per cent for measles-rubella vaccination among first-year primary pupils and 89.02 per cent for HPV vaccination among fifth-year pupils.

About 210 Police Personnel Deployed to Tackle Kalimantan Wildfires

Indonesia’s National Police has deployed about 210 personnel to help extinguish forest and land fires in East and Central Kalimantan, including in areas around Nusantara and Tanjung Puting National Park. The deployment also includes investigators to examine suspected fire-related crimes, as authorities urge coordination with local communities and warn residents against burning land.

Unaaha District Court Rejects VDNI and OSS Objections in Nickel Industry Environmental Case

The Unaaha District Court has rejected preliminary objections by nickel companies VDNI and OSS, allowing a residents’ environmental lawsuit seeking Rp42.77 billion in damages to proceed to a substantive hearing. The claims concern alleged pollution from an on-site power plant and its effects on health, livelihoods and local fisheries; the court has not yet ruled on whether the alleged harm or the companies’ liability is proven.

East Java Police forensic team examines crime scenes in Madiun mother-and-child murder case

East Java Police forensic investigators and Madiun City Police have examined three locations connected to the deaths of a 30-year-old woman and her four-year-old child. Police are investigating allegations that the victims were mutilated and their bodies burned, using CCTV footage and evidence collected at the sites to establish the sequence of events and motive.

Indonesian Air Force deploys two Hercules aircraft to deliver dry ice for weather modification

The Indonesian Air Force has transported 4.6 tonnes of dry ice to Palembang and Banjarmasin to support weather-modification operations aimed at generating rain and tackling forest and land fires. The military says it will continue providing aircraft to help disperse smoke and suppress remaining hotspots.

South Kalimantan Forest-Fire Volunteers Give Thanks as Heavy Rain Falls

Local volunteers battling forest and land fires in Banjar Regency broke into spontaneous prostrations of gratitude when heavy rain arrived after months of waiting. The downpour offered a welcome respite as the team had been fighting the blaze for around 40 minutes to an hour.

Student Says He Wants to Be President; Sahroni Jokes About Fake Diplomas

During a parliamentary hearing on the Asset Forfeiture Bill, Deputy House Commission III chairman Ahmad Sahroni urged students to develop sound judgement beyond academic qualifications. He joked that diplomas matter but warned against fakes, then said NasDem was following the established process over the controversy surrounding Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s diploma.

20 Airlines Cancel Flights to Saudi Arabia, Affecting Umrah Pilgrims

At least 20 international airlines have cancelled, suspended or reduced services to Saudi Arabia amid rising regional tensions and security concerns, despite Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport beginning to reopen. Disruptions extend into November 2026 and, for some carriers, early 2027, potentially affecting travellers including Umrah pilgrims.

State-owned firms’ combined profit surges to Rp 214.9tn after business model overhaul

Danantara Indonesia reported that state-owned enterprises’ combined net profit rose 18.4% year on year to Rp 214.9 trillion in January–August 2026, while annualised return on equity improved to 8%. The agency attributed the gains to a broad overhaul of business models and cost structures; stronger SOE profits also matter because dividends fund Danantara’s strategic investments.

Central Jakarta police seize 1.6kg of meth and arrest two suspects

Police in Central Jakarta seized 1,599 grams of suspected methamphetamine and arrested two suspects after an investigation in West Jakarta. The suspects face charges under Indonesia’s Narcotics Law and Criminal Code, while police say the seizure may prevent drug abuse among about 3,300 people.

Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Türkiye Move to Engage Iran for Middle East Peace

Senior officials from Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Türkiye are due to meet Iranian counterparts in Tehran to ease regional tensions after months of war and renewed threats of US and Israeli attacks. The talks are intended to promote dialogue and diplomatic solutions, amid conflict over the Strait of Hormuz and expanding clashes involving the Iran-backed Houthis.

Tourist’s Account of Alleged Scam During Visit to Yogyakarta Palace Goes Viral

A tourist has alleged that she and her family were misled by a man who directed them away from the Yogyakarta Palace ticket office and towards a painting seller. Palace officials have condemned the incident, said they are seeking information about the man and will consult local guide associations, and advised visitors to check the palace’s official tourism channels before visiting.

Grok Releases First Episode of AI-Generated ‘Odyssey’ Series

Grok Imagine has released the first episode of its AI-generated ‘Odyssey’ series, roughly three months after Elon Musk promised a historically accurate film version. The seven-minute episode has attracted millions of views on X but has also drawn criticism for lacking artistic and human appeal.

Internet Outage Halts Banking and Flights

A newly disclosed vulnerability in PHP has triggered a surge in cyberattacks, prompting governments and companies worldwide to take websites and online services offline while applying security patches. The disruption has affected banks, airlines, railways and public services, with officials warning that restoring systems could take days or weeks.

Central Jakarta Dharma Wanita selects participants for DKI Jakarta sports week

The Central Jakarta branch of Dharma Wanita Persatuan and the local Youth and Sports Sub-agency have held an orientation and participant selection for the DKI Jakarta provincial DWP Sports Week, scheduled for 19 November 2026. The event will feature six traditional recreational competitions and is intended to promote participation, sportsmanship and ties among members; last year’s event involved 720 participants from 40 regional agencies.

Forest and Land Fires at Seven Berbak National Park Sites Enter Cooling Stage

Rain over two days has extinguished fires at seven locations in Berbak National Park, and crews are now cooling hot peat remnants. Firefighting continues across parts of Jambi, with more than 100 Manggala Agni personnel deployed alongside other agencies; the burnt area in Berbak has yet to be assessed.

PERHUMAS Highlights the Importance of Public Communication for Village Heads at BSA Training

PERHUMAS has urged Jakarta’s village heads to improve how they communicate public services, policies and local programmes, particularly through social media. The training for Benyamin S Award finalists covered a structured public-relations cycle and aimed to help officials share information promptly and measure the impact of their programmes.

Indonesia Cuts Gas Exports to Singapore by 31 BBTUD

Indonesia has cut natural gas exports to Singapore by 31 billion British thermal units per day from 24 October 2026, redirecting some supply to domestic needs, including power generation in Batam, Bintan and Sumatra. A property industry representative says Batam remains attractive to Singaporean buyers, but the article notes that the export cut’s effect on property investment is not yet evident and would require current transaction data to assess.

TNI Deploys Three Transport Aircraft to Tackle Forest and Land Fires in Kalimantan, Carrying 10 Tonnes of Weather-Modification Materials

The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) deployed three transport aircraft to support weather-modification operations aimed at tackling forest and land fires in Kalimantan. The aircraft dispersed more than 10 tonnes of salt and dry ice to encourage rainfall, particularly in fire-affected forest and peatland areas.

Jakarta Government Opens Health Services to Patients Without City ID Cards

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung said people without Jakarta identity cards can access the capital’s health facilities, including those experiencing respiratory problems linked to forest-fire haze. He has directed 31 city-owned hospitals, 44 community health centres and 292 auxiliary centres to provide care, while the newly inaugurated Taman Sari centre is equipped to serve around 124,500 people.

Self-Sufficiency in Eight Commodities Achieved as Government Strengthens Food Security

Indonesia says it has achieved self-sufficiency in eight key food commodities, with projected production exceeding domestic demand by 4.69 million tonnes in 2026 and government rice procurement reaching a record high. Analysts caution that national surpluses have not resolved uneven distribution, volatile prices and affordability, while climate risks and continued reliance on imports of other foods remain challenges.

Metro Jaya Police Halt Probe into Alleged Crypto Fraud Involving Timothy Ronald

Metro Jaya Police have ended their investigation into a complaint alleging crypto-trading fraud involving Akademi Crypto founder Timothy Ronald, saying investigators found no criminal offence. The complaint, filed in January, concerned claims that investors were encouraged to buy Manta coins on the promise of a 300–500 per cent gain, after which the price reportedly fell sharply.

Video: HSC Stocks Removed from Index; IDX and OJK Say Reforms Will Continue

The Indonesia Stock Exchange says removing shares with high shareholding concentration (HSC) from indices will not cause drastic changes to index levels. The Financial Services Authority says tighter supervision and law enforcement are part of wider capital-market reforms intended to improve trading integrity and strengthen investor confidence.

Women’s Empowerment Minister responds to alleged child abuse in Malaysian hotel lift by Indonesian national

Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection Minister Arifah Fauzi stressed that children are entitled to safe, loving care and that violence cannot be justified as discipline. Her remarks followed footage allegedly showing an Indonesian national physically abusing a child in a hotel in Alor Setar, Malaysia, and included advice for parents to manage stress and share caregiving responsibilities.

BMKG: Air Quality in Medan Is Moderate on Monday

BMKG reported that air quality in parts of Medan was moderate on Monday morning, with no hotspots detected in North Sumatra. Visibility at several meteorological stations ranged from 1 to 8 kilometres, prompting safety advice for motorists and residents, while local authorities were urged to coordinate on smoke preparedness.

Traffic Police Urge Public to Follow Road Rules through Operation Patuh

Indonesia’s National Police Traffic Corps has launched Operation Patuh 2026, running until 8 November, to encourage safer and more disciplined road use. Officials say success will be judged by improved behaviour—not the number of enforcement actions—with education, electronic ticketing and persuasive engagement among the measures being used.

InJourney Airports Cuts Airport Charges by 50%: Will Airfares Fall?

InJourney Airports will halve passenger service charges at all 36 airports it manages for domestic flights during the 2026–27 Christmas and New Year travel period, alongside a 50% discount on landing and aircraft parking charges for airlines. The measure, covering eligible ticket purchases from 20 October 2026 to 10 January 2027 and departures from 22 December 2026 to 10 January 2027, is intended to ease travel costs and support mobility and domestic tourism.

BI: Meuseuraya Festival 2026 Generates Rp3 Billion in Transactions for Aceh MSMEs

Bank Indonesia’s Aceh representative office recorded more than Rp3 billion in sales by local micro, small and medium-sized enterprises at the four-day Meuseuraya Festival 2026. The event also generated Rp13.7 billion in business-matching value and secured Rp1.5 billion in signed bank financing agreements, supporting MSME access to domestic and international markets.

Ministry prepares special exam schedule for fire-hit regions

Indonesia’s Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has arranged separate test schedules for areas where forest and land fires threaten students’ safety, with Central Kalimantan formally requesting special arrangements. The ministry’s procedures allow exams to be moved to a make-up period or otherwise rescheduled according to local conditions, prioritising students’ health and safety.

Tensions Rise as Albanian Leader Faces Calls to Step Down; Protesters Face Rp111 Million Fine

Fresh demonstrations have erupted in Albania’s capital, Tirana, amid anger over alleged government corruption, unemployment and poor education standards. Prime Minister Edi Rama has announced a 500,000-lek fine for anyone taking part in a protest that turns violent, as the unrest presents a major political challenge to his leadership.

Lula da Silva Makes History as Brazil’s President for a Fourth Term at 81

Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has secured a dramatic run-off victory over Senator Flávio Bolsonaro, winning 51.79 per cent of the vote and a fourth presidential term. The result reverses his first-round defeat and marks a notable setback for the conservative shift in Latin America, although Bolsonaro has rejected the outcome and says he will seek to annul the election.

AP Cuts Airport Service Charges by 50% to Bring Down Airfares

InJourney Airports will halve passenger service charges at all 36 airports it manages, alongside a 50% cut in landing and aircraft parking charges for airlines, during the 2026–27 year-end holiday period. The measures, covering domestic flights, are intended to reduce ticket prices, support airline operations and encourage domestic travel.

Re-elected, Lula pledges to lead all Brazilians

Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has pledged to govern for all Brazilians after winning re-election, promising to strengthen Brazil’s international role and pursue an ambitious climate agenda. His next term is expected to face parliamentary opposition and pressure to balance public finances with expanded social programmes.

Erdogan Fires Adviser Who Criticised Azerbaijan’s Headscarf Ban

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has dismissed senior adviser Oktay Saral amid tensions with Azerbaijan over its ban on headscarves in primary and secondary schools. Saral had publicly condemned the policy, prompting a sharp response from Azerbaijan’s ruling party; Ankara is also seeking President Ilham Aliyev’s attendance at an upcoming Turkic States summit.

Pertamina Studies Gas Distribution Technology with Japanese Partners

Pertamina has signed a study agreement with Japan’s Yachiyo Engineering and Atomis to assess metal-organic framework (MOF) technology for storing and distributing gas, including in areas beyond the reach of pipelines. The evaluation will examine technical and commercial feasibility, safety and regulatory compliance, as well as whether the technology could help expand domestic gas use and reduce reliance on imported LPG.

On Plans for a State-Owned Textile Firm to Acquire Sritex Assets, Danantara Chief Comments

BPI Danantara is considering acquiring assets from bankrupt textile company Sritex as one option for establishing a textile business, alongside building a new company from scratch. COO Dony Oskaria said the plans remain under review and could help preserve jobs; the investment amount will depend on the industry’s needs.

Flagship Entrepreneurial Fair Opens Market Access for West Kalimantan’s MSMEs

The Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises is using the West Kalimantan Flagship Entrepreneurial Fair to connect MSMEs and aspiring entrepreneurs with financing, business support and wider markets. The initiative includes partnerships with retail chains and a cross-ministry digital service, alongside a 50 per cent cut in administration fees for eligible micro and small businesses selling local products through e-commerce platforms.

Indonesia Is awash with mangoes, and this province leads the way

Indonesia produced 3.01 million tonnes of mangoes in 2025, an 8.87% fall from the previous year despite a sharp increase in the number of productive trees in the second half. East Java remained the country’s leading producer, accounting for 43.33% of output, while household consumption also declined. The figures underline that tree numbers alone do not guarantee higher yields, which also depend on productivity, orchard care and growing conditions.

Turning Local Fashion into Art: Othman’s Story on the BSI Expo 2026 Runway

Local fashion label Othman unveiled three limited-edition products at the BSI International Expo 2026, combining its own design identity with Bank Syariah Indonesia’s signature colours. BSI president director Anggoro Eko Cahyo said domestic demand for Indonesian products is essential to helping local businesses grow to a scale where they can compete internationally.

DPR Speeds Up Deliberations on Asset Forfeiture Bill, Habiburokhman Says It Will Be Completed by 15 December 2026

The Indonesian House of Representatives’ Commission III has brought forward public hearings on the asset forfeiture bill as it works towards a 15 December 2026 deadline. Around 20 groups and experts are expected to provide input, with written submissions also invited from members of the public unable to attend in person.

Youth Pledge Day 2026: Schedule and Ceremony Programme

Indonesia will mark the 98th anniversary of Youth Pledge Day on Wednesday, 28 October 2026, with ceremonies beginning at 08.00 local time, under guidance issued by the Minister of Youth and Sports. The article sets out the dress code and order of proceedings, and includes the official prayer for the occasion, themed “Patriotic, Resilient, Empathetic: Youth for Indonesia”.

Religious Affairs Ministry Deploys 35 Faith Guides to Support Recovery for NTT Earthquake Victims

The Ministry of Religious Affairs has deployed 35 Muslim and Catholic faith guides to provide psychosocial and spiritual support to earthquake-affected communities across seven areas of East Manggarai, East Nusa Tenggara. The initiative will prioritise vulnerable residents and families still living in evacuation tents, combining religiously informed support with efforts to strengthen family resilience and protect women and children.

Video: OJK Outlines the Latest Capital Market Policy Situation

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has set out three capital-market reform measures following the possibility that MSCI could downgrade the Indonesia Stock Exchange from emerging-market to standalone status. It also plans to boost market liquidity by encouraging listed companies to increase their free float, while praising companies undertaking share buy-backs and domestic investors who have stayed in the market amid pressure as the JCI strengthened again.

Merger of State-Owned Airlines Awaits Garuda’s Turnaround

Danantara says it will defer plans to merge state-owned airlines until Garuda Indonesia and the other company involved have healthier business performance. Garuda’s service overhaul and possible rebranding remain priorities, while its first-half 2026 revenue rose and its net loss narrowed.

BMKG: North Sumatra Could See Moderate to Heavy Rain for the Coming Week

BMKG forecasts moderate to very heavy rain across parts of North Sumatra over the coming week, potentially accompanied by lightning and localised strong winds. The agency urged residents and local officials to follow official forecasts and take precautions, as atmospheric conditions are favourable for intense rainfall.