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Long-Term Investment for Gen Z, Gold Becomes the Most Popular Choice

Generation Z in Indonesia is increasingly engaging in long-term investment, with data from the Indonesia Central Securities Depository (KSEI) showing that 54.12% of capital market investors are under 30 years old.

Sports minister wants boxing to continue

Sports minister wants boxing to continue JAKARTA (JP): Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Hayono Isman shrugged off yesterday calls for an end to boxing in Indonesia following the a death of a boxer last week, saying that the sport would continue. "Don't seek a scapegoat for the accident. We know boxing is as risky and tough as parachuting, white water rafting and other dangerous sports," Hayono said during a meeting with chairman of the Indonesian Boxing Commission, Hendropriyono, yesterday.

`I'd like to raise their child as mine'

`I'd like to raise their child as mine' Zakki Hakim, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Titin, 42, mother of Dwi Santia -- who was brutally raped and killed by a serial kidnapping gang -- demanded capital punishment for all the suspects in the case, but asked the police if she could legally adopt one of the suspect's children. "The rest of the family are no doubt savages but their child is innocent. I want to adopt the child as an exchange for my daughter," Titin told The Jakarta Post on Monday.

Profile of Michael Bambang Hartono, Owner of the Djarum Group Who Passed Away Today

Michael Bambang Hartono, one of Indonesia's wealthiest individuals and owner of the Djarum Group, passed away on 19 March 2026 in Singapore at the age of 86. Known for his simple lifestyle despite his vast business empire, Hartono transformed his family's small kretek cigarette factory into a diversified conglomerate spanning electronics, plantations, property, telecommunications towers, and digital investments including stakes in Gojek, Blibli, and others. His family's acquisition of controlling interest in Bank Central Asia in the early 2000s further solidified their influence in the banking sector during a period of national financial turmoil.

Macroeconomic targets need revising: Neiss

Macroeconomic targets need revising: Neiss JAKARTA (JP): Macroeconomic assumptions of the International Monetary Fund's economic reform program for Indonesia will have to be adjusted due to the country's worsening situation, IMF Asia Pacific director Hubert Neiss admitted yesterday. "Yes, we have to make adaptations in the macroeconomic framework to the new situation that unfortunately is even weaker than before," he told media following a 45-minute meeting with President B.J. Habibie.

[POPULAR AUTOMOTIVE] Agrinas Invites Japanese and Chinese Brands, Users of Tiggo 8 CSH

Agrinas, an Indonesian company, has invited Japanese and Chinese automotive brands to participate in a tender for supplying vehicles, but ultimately decided to import 105,000 pickup trucks from India. The Chery Tiggo 8 CSH, a plug-in hybrid SUV, is gaining popularity among Indonesian families seeking environmentally friendly vehicles with spacious cabins.

Family planning evolution in RI

Family planning evolution in RI Aya Hirata Kimura, Contributor, Jakarta People, population and policy in Indonesia Terence H. Hull, ed Equinox Publishing 208 pp, Hardcover A few years ago when I was in eastern Java, I was struck by the casual way in which Indonesians would often ask, "What do you use for KB?" -- even in a seemingly conservative rural area.

IMF focuses on budget, monetary policy review

IMF focuses on budget, monetary policy review JAKARTA (JP): The International Monetary Fund (IMF) technical team here to review Indonesia's macroeconomic development is focusing on the country's budget and monetary policy, IMF Asia Pacific director Hubert Neiss said yesterday. He added, to the media after meeting the country's economic ministers, that the other two topics were financial restructuring and structural reforms. "I will stay for two to three weeks...

Rupiah's response satisfactory: Sjahril

Rupiah's response satisfactory: Sjahril TOKYO (Dow Jones): The rupiah's response to Friday's increase in interest rates on all maturities of Sertifikat Bank Indonesia money market instruments was satisfactory, and the central bank stands ready to adjust interest further if needed to stabilize exchange rates, Bank Indonesia (BI) Governor Sjahril Sabirin said yesterday.

E. Timor not on ASEM agenda: Alatas

E. Timor not on ASEM agenda: Alatas JAKARTA (JP): Minister of Foreign Affairs Ali Alatas maintained yesterday that East Timor would not be discussed at next month's Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) because it was considered an extraneous issue and irrelevant to the core topic of the summit. Alatas said ASEM leaders had agreed since their first summit in Bangkok in 1996 to exclude the issue from the meeting's agenda since there was a separate forum to discuss East Timor.

On the Shelves

On the Shelves Bagaimana Perkawinan Bertahan dari Perselingkuhan (How a marriage survive from infidelity); By Charlotte Latvala, et. al.; Pinkbooks, March 2003; 103pp Many surveys have been conducted in the past few years on Indonesians' lifestyles and one of the results is quite shocking. Many admit that they have cheated on their spouses, with most blaming a lack of communication as the main cause. And the number has been increasing.

Anti-Hunger Suhoor Strategy: Nutritional Quality More Important Than Portion Size

A nutritional expert from IPB University explains that hunger during fasting is determined not by portion size but by the quality and composition of pre-dawn meals, particularly the balance of protein, fibre, and complex carbohydrates. Rather than consuming excessive simple carbohydrates that cause rapid blood sugar spikes, maintaining a balanced diet following the "Isi Piringku" principle—with half the plate filled with vegetables and fruits—helps sustain energy throughout the fasting period.

Vice President Gibran urges creative industry to strengthen strategic collaboration

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka has called on stakeholders in the creative industry to enhance strategic collaborations to bolster Indonesia's creative economy, during a meeting with leaders from The Maple Media at the Vice Presidential Palace. This initiative aligns with President Prabowo Subianto's policy direction to foster national economic growth through innovation and added value, emphasising the crucial role of government-industry synergy in creating an adaptive and innovative business ecosystem amid global competition. The CEO of Redwoods Digital Growth Group, which oversees The Maple Media, highlighted the importance of collaboration to prevent industry collapse and outlined commitments to support the ecosystem via venture building, incubation, and direct investments in the media sector.

Find me a job or I'll turn pro: La Paene

Find me a job or I'll turn pro: La Paene JAKARTA (JP): National amateur boxer La Paene Masara demanded the Indonesian Amateur Boxing Association (Pertina) find him a job or he would turn professional. The 27-year-old boxer said on Monday that he would not hesitate to leave the Kuala Lumpur Southeast Asian (SEA) Games training program if Pertina could not get him a job. He said he had asked the body for a job since 1997. "I'm not thinking about the training program now.

Full Statement from JK After Filing Police Report Against Rismon with Bareskrim

Former Indonesian Vice President Jusuf Kalla has filed a police report against Rismon Hasiholan Sianipar with Bareskrim Polri, accusing him of defamation for falsely claiming that Kalla funded investigations into President Jokowi's diploma. Kalla, who served as Jokowi's deputy for five years, described the allegations as unethical and damaging to his dignity, emphasising that he would never betray or undermine his former principal. The report, registered under number LP/B/135/IV/2026/SPKT/Bareskrim Polri, also targets associated YouTube and Facebook accounts spreading the claims, highlighting ongoing concerns over misinformation in Indonesian politics.

Role of Influencers in Promoting and Educating on Digital Economic Assets Highlighted

The Indonesian Blockchain Association (ABI) and the Financial Services Authority (OJK) have emphasised the importance of cross-sector collaboration to drive an inclusive national digital transformation, as highlighted during the Crypto Literacy Month (BLK) 2026 event themed around integrating blockchain and crypto innovations. Influencers and content creators are spotlighted for their strategic role in educating the public on crypto assets, bridging complex information, and countering misinformation, with Indodax CEO William Sutanto stressing the need for clear standards and stricter oversight of anonymous accounts to maintain a healthy ecosystem. This initiative aims to foster greater crypto literacy and positive public perception, supporting the sustainable growth of Indonesia's digital economy.

BYD Factory Construction Disrupted by Organised Thuggery, Drawing International Attention

Thuggery by mass organisations (ormas) targeting BYD has once again become a topic of discussion, with the issue now reaching Chinese media outlets. Recently, news of disruptions to the construction of BYD’s factory in Subang, West Java, has spread as far as China. “In Indonesia, the dream of becoming Southeast Asia’s electric vehicle (EV) hub collides with an age-old enemy: organised crime groups known as preman,” wrote the South China Morning Post on Tuesday (6 May).

Financial Forecast for the Year of the Fire Horse 2026: Beware of Risks Behind Great Opportunities

Jakarta, VIVA – The financial forecast for the Year of the Fire Horse 2026 has become a widely searched topic ahead of the Chinese astrological calendar transition. The combination of the Horse zodiac and the Fire element is believed to bring strong, dynamic, and highly ambitious energy. In the 60-year cycle, the Fire Horse is known as a symbol of courage, rapid movement, and significant change.

Clueless expatriate gets baptism of fire

Clueless expatriate gets baptism of fire Let me set the scene for you: a westerner with virtually no idea about the Indonesian language or culture (except for what she's gleaned from her pocket-sized Lonely Planet guide) jumps on a plane and heads to Jakarta. I mean, how hard could it be to adjust to a new country, I told myself somewhat hesitantly as the plane hit the runway. The answer, I soon discovered, was quite hard. My first error was my choice of dress.

Govt wary of people seeking political change

Govt wary of people seeking political change JAKARTA (JP): The government is on guard against people who take to the street and seek to overhaul the political system, a senior cabinet minister said yesterday. Minister of Defense and Security, Edi Sudradjat, reiterated that the government's policy is to tolerate demonstrations as long as they are peaceful and "not used by a third interest group".

Indonesia, Egypt share intelligence in war on terror

Indonesia, Egypt share intelligence in war on terror Agence France-Presse, Cairo Presidents Megawati Soekarnoputri of Indonesia and Hosni Mubarak of Egypt (photo above) discussed here Thursday how to improve sharing intelligence in fighting terror, Mubarak advisor Osama al-Baz said.

Muhammdiyah not interested in politics

Muhammdiyah not interested in politics SOLO, Central Java (JP): Muhammadiyah, the country's largest socio-educational organization, has no intention of getting involved in politics, its acting chairman says. Speaking at the meeting of the organization's policy-making body (Tanwir) yesterday, Amien Rais also said that the organization will never seek fleeting gains.

Prabowo invites Jusuf Kalla to attend Iftar at the Presidential Palace

President Prabowo Subianto has invited former vice president Jusuf Kalla to an Iftar gathering at the Presidential Palace, Jakarta. Kalla attends in his capacity as Chairman of the Dewan Masjid Indonesia, with other Islamic organisation leaders and heads of major pesantren invited to discuss issues including Indonesia's position on the Board of Peace; the event follows a February meeting about joining the Board of Peace and its implications for Palestinians.

The Fake Rich Middle Class Phenomenon: Luxurious Lifestyle but Financially Fragile

The "fake rich middle class" phenomenon highlights a segment of Indonesia's growing middle class that projects an affluent image through conspicuous consumption, yet lacks solid financial foundations such as assets or savings. According to Dr. Tanti Novianti from IPB University's Business School, this issue stems from economic growth favouring consumption over productive assets, easy access to consumer credit, social pressures in urban settings, and the amplifying role of social media. Strengthening the middle class requires shifting focus from spending power to long-term financial stability, risk management, and asset building to ensure sustainable prosperity.

Prabowo Receives China's Minister of State Security, Discusses Enhancing Asian Stability

President Prabowo Subianto hosted China's Minister of State Security, Chen Yixin, in Jakarta to discuss strengthening security cooperation for regional and global stability, emphasising the link between Asian stability and Indonesia's sustainable economic growth. The meeting highlighted plans to enhance ties between China's MSS and Indonesia's BIN intelligence agency, aligning with Prabowo's foreign policy vision in a multipolar world. On the same day, Prabowo met with US investor Ray Dalio to explore optimising the role of Danantara, Indonesia's sovereign wealth fund.

The seminar could reopen old wounds of yesteryear

The seminar could reopen old wounds of yesteryear The government's plan to hold a seminar on Nawaksara, the late president Sukarno's accountability speech before the Provisional People's Consultative Assembly (MPRS) in 1966, has been further postponed until after next year's presidential election. Nawaksara, which means nine points or topics, was rejected by the assembly and resulted in Sukarno's dismissal as president.

Draft Assembly decrees must not be considered final: Experts

Draft Assembly decrees must not be considered final: Experts JAKARTA (JP): Constitutional law experts said on Tuesday that draft decrees completed for deliberation in the People's Consultative Assembly's (MPR) special session should not be considered final. Even if the United Development Party (PPP) faction lost in a vote on the Armed Forces representation in the House of Representatives, they should not be deterred from pressing the issue, the experts said.

Pillars of RI economy

Pillars of RI economy I would like to add to Margarette Haskell's comments Foreign investment in Indonesia published in The Jakarta Post dated Feb. 28. In my 30 years of doing business in Indonesia, I have heard my share of complaints, criticisms and both horror and success stories from foreigners doing business in Indonesia.

TV today

TV today TVRI 5:30 a.m. Religious Teachings 6:00 News 7:00 Campaign Program 8:00 Children's Songs 8:30 TV Drama 9:00 Music 10:00 Interval 2:00 p.m. News 2:30 Teen Program 3:00 Music 4:00 Regional News 4:30 Children's Program 5:00 Technology Program 5:30 TV Drama 6:00 Sports 6:30 News (in English) 7:00 Evening News 7:35 Campaign Program 9:00 World News 9:30 Talk Show 10:30 Film 11:30 Late News Program 2 4:30 p.m.

Dreams come true for rising magician Deddy

Dreams come true for rising magician Deddy By I. Christianto JAKARTA (JP): He holds a metal spoon tightly and looks deeply at the object. And it bends. Magic? Yes, that's what Deddy Carbuzier demonstrates. But to him, it's not magic, it's mind power. Deddy does not like being called a magician, either. He prefers to dub himself a mentalist, an enchanter who performs mind games with his audience. Before he performs every trick, he informs his audience about what he is going to do.

Tax Office Explains Rationale for VAT Study on Toll Roads, Still in Planning Stage

The Directorate General of Taxes (DJP) has clarified that the review of Value Added Tax (VAT) on toll road services is part of its 2025-2029 Strategic Plan aimed at expanding the tax base proportionally while ensuring fairness and sustainability in the tax system. This initiative seeks to promote equitable tax treatment across service types and support fiscal sustainability for infrastructure development, though it remains at the study phase with inter-ministerial coordination and considerations for public purchasing power. The government emphasises principles of justice, legal certainty, and administrative ease in any future policy implementation.

Power Outage in Jakarta Area, Netizens Flood Social Media with Reports

A widespread power outage struck several areas of Jakarta on Thursday, 23 April 2026, around 10:00 WIB, prompting numerous reports from netizens on social media platforms. State-owned electricity company PT PLN is actively restoring the power supply in stages while investigating the cause, which also affected telecommunications services in some locations, including government offices like the Ministry of Investment/BKPM. The incident highlights vulnerabilities in Jakarta's electrical infrastructure, with PLN urging the public to remain calm and follow official updates via their app and hotline.

Survivors fear loss of traditions

Survivors fear loss of traditions The following is the second of three articles about Lampuuk, which was once a popular tourist destination about 20 kilometers west of Banda Aceh, but now has becomes a ghost town following the Dec. 26 quake and tsunami. The Jakarta Post's Nani Afrida has toured the area, interviewed survivors and prepared these articles.

Cabinet Secretary Criticises 'Inflation of Commentators' Phenomenon: Their Data Does Not Match Facts

Cabinet Secretary Teddy has highlighted a growing issue of an 'inflation of commentators' whose backgrounds do not align with their expertise and whose data often misrepresents facts, aiming to shape public opinion against President Prabowo Subianto even before his tenure. He emphasised that over 96 million citizens trust the President, viewing this as concrete evidence of public confidence rather than mere assumptions. While welcoming differing views and constructive criticism, Teddy urged commentators to avoid statements that incite public anxiety, stressing that the government is stable, open to feedback, and committed to improving for the nation's benefit.

Two neighbors at odds

Two neighbors at odds I read with keen interest Sukawarsini Djelantik's article on the Australian media as well as Dewi Anggraeni's analysis of the lack of mutual understanding between the Australian and Indonesian peoples (The Jakarta Post, Oct. 7). These pieces are exemplary attempts to create a political environment conducive to improving the two countries' relations.

The 'Post' journalist wins award

The 'Post' journalist wins award The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The Jakarta Post's reporter I Wayan Juniartha won the International Harm Reduction Association (IHRA) Media Award 2003 for his honest and courageous reporting of issues related to the reduction in the use of illegal drugs.

Proper media organizations needed

Proper media organizations needed JAKARTA (JP): The registration of around 300 new newspapers, weeklies and tabloids at the Ministry of Information has heightened the need for professional associations and unions, journalists and newspaper proprietors said here on Saturday. Speaking at a discussion, Atmakusumah Astraatmadja of Dr.

Sutiyoso's 'becak' blunder

Sutiyoso's 'becak' blunder Perhaps many of our readers have never seen the creature called a becak, the man-powered pedicab about which the Jakarta authorities have made much fuss lately. This long-forgotten (in the capital at least) means of public transportation, which is inhuman in the way it is operated, has become a hot topic since Jakarta Governor Sutiyoso said he would not prevent their return in several Jakarta areas and then a few days later reversed his decision.

Many Doubt Q2 2025 Economic Growth, BPS Provides Explanation

Indonesia's Central Statistics Agency (BPS) has faced public scrutiny and accusations of government intervention over its reported economic growth data for 2025, particularly the second quarter, amid ambitious high-growth targets set by the government. BPS Director Puji Agus Kurniawan reaffirmed the agency's independence and commitment to producing high-quality, internationally standardised statistics verified through the national system. He detailed the comprehensive methodologies used in calculating Gross Domestic Product (GDP), including production and expenditure approaches with numerous variables, to validate the data's accuracy and counter doubts from external estimates.

Four Percent of Indonesian Women Experience Intimate Health Disorders; Experts Urge Breaking the Taboo on Medical Check-ups

Approximately four percent of Indonesian women experience intimate health disorders requiring medical attention, yet stigma and taboo prevent many from seeking treatment. Leading healthcare experts advocate for a comprehensive, integrated approach to women's health that addresses medical, aesthetic, and psychological aspects across all life stages, whilst encouraging women to overcome cultural barriers to medical consultation.

Since University, Cyber University Digital Business Programme Student Has Been Building a Startup

Syeren Peimeng, a 2024 intake student in the Digital Business programme at Cyber University (Universitas Siber Indonesia), is already developing a creative startup called Sleective while serving as head of the campus Entrepreneurship Student Activity Unit and interning as a graphic designer at PT Republik Desain Indonesia. This hands-on experience, combined with contributions to a book on Human-Computer Interaction, underscores the programme's adaptive curriculum that emphasises practical industry skills, including a 3+1 Company Learning Programme offering one year of internships. As Indonesia's first Fintech University, Cyber University is fostering innovative young talents ready to compete in the digital ecosystem and contribute to the national creative industry.

NU plans to discuss presidential term

NU plans to discuss presidential term JAKARTA (JP): Indonesia's largest Moslem organization plans to discuss whether Islamic law and tradition makes any stipulation on the length of the presidential term. Leaders of the East Java branch of the Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) will meet in Surabaya next Saturday and Sunday to discuss the question. A spokesman for the branch said yesterday that the issue of the presidential term is among 12 religious questions to be deliberated by the branch.

School debate ends with a bang

School debate ends with a bang Dewi Santoso, Jakarta Common sense and concrete arguments, rather than a mastery of English alone, were the main factors behind the progress of Jakarta 2 and East Kalimantan teams to the final of the second Indonesian Schools Debating Championship (ISDC), said debate judges on Monday. "It's was interesting debate in which the teams presented their arguments strongly and countered their opponents'.

Nuclear dispute just between U.S. and N. Korea: China

Nuclear dispute just between U.S. and N. Korea: China Jae-suk Yoo, Associated Press, Seoul The Chinese ambassador in Seoul said that the nuclear dispute on the Korean Peninsula should be solved primarily by the United States and North Korea, and that Beijing doesn't want to play an active mediating role.

Tutut could become next president: Analyst

Tutut could become next president: Analyst Kurniawan Hari, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Former president Soeharto's eldest daughter Siti Hardijanti Rukmana could emerge a serious contender for the presidency, given her family's wealth and solid network, a scholar warns. Maswadi Rauf, a University of Indonesia (UI) professor, said politicians seemed to ignore the maneuvers of Hardijanti, popularly known as Tutut.

DPR Member Claims Independent Legislative Candidates Contradict the 1945 Constitution

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives (DPR), Muhammad Khozin, has argued that allowing independent candidates for legislative positions violates the 1945 Constitution, which explicitly limits electoral participants for DPR and regional councils to political parties only. This stance comes amid a constitutional challenge filed by M Havidz Aima, who contends that current election laws restrict citizens' political participation and contradict the principle of popular sovereignty. The case, heard preliminarily at the Constitutional Court, seeks to open pathways for non-partisan candidacies to enhance democratic representation.

Dual function updated

Dual function updated The socio-political function of the Armed Forces (ABRI) has continued to be a relevant topic as time passes. President Soeharto said in his speech at the celebration of ABRI's 49th anniversary yesterday that the military's role is still required in the defense and security and socio-political domains.

Philippine Senate to probe alleged Estrada payoff

Philippine Senate to probe alleged Estrada payoff MANILA (Reuters): The Philippine Senate said on Thursday it would investigate allegations by a provincial governor that he had regularly handed millions of pesos in payoffs from illegal gambling to President Joseph Estrada. Senate President Franklin Drilon said in the legislature the charges, which Estrada dismissed, would be referred to a "blue ribbon committee" which looks into irregularities in government.

Telcos could afford to cut charges, says study

Research by Bandung's Padjadjaran University (Unpad) on the mobile telecommunications industry has found cell phone operators' high earnings mean they could afford to lower their charges. At present, industry players boast an average EBITDA (earning before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization) of more than 60 percent, according to Ina Primiana, the head of Unpad's Economic Faculty Management Laboratory (LMFE).

RI`s many old oil wells can still be made productive

Jakarta (ANTARA News) - Indonesia`s oil production can be boosted by reactivating the many old but still productive oil wells it has inherited from the Dutch but have been neglected so far, an observer said. "Out of the 13,824 existing old oil wells in Indonesia, only 745 have so far been reopened while the rest remains neglected," Sayogo Heru Prayitno, an oil and gas affairs observer at the Yogyakarta-based National Veterans` Development University (UPN), said here Wednesday.

Business sentiment strengthens but legal uncertainties remain

Business sentiment strengthens but legal uncertainties remain Fitri Wulandari, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The country's Business Sentiment Index (BSI) rose for the second consecutive period, as more business leaders expressed confidence about their current performance and their business outlook for the next six months, a survey said. According to the Danareksa Research Institute survey of top executives at leading companies for the April-May period, the BSI climbed to 111.3 from 110.2.

Prabowo Subianto's Profound Message During Handshake with Sugianto: Symbol of Indonesian Courage in South Korea

Prabowo Subianto personally shook hands with Sugianto, an Indonesian migrant worker in South Korea, to honour his heroic act of saving an elderly local from a life-threatening situation, highlighting the bravery and moral values of Indonesians abroad. This gesture underscores Prabowo's emphasis on the character and integrity of the Indonesian people, positioning ordinary citizens like Sugianto as true national ambassadors who promote Pancasila values internationally. The recognition aims to boost national pride and support for migrant workers, shifting perceptions from mere economic contributors to cultural envoys.

House Commission III Acts as Guarantor, Requests Suspension of Amsal Sitepu's Detention

Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission III has convened a meeting to address the detention of Amsal Sitepu, the defendant in an alleged corruption case involving village profile videos in North Sumatra's Karo Regency, and is requesting the suspension of his detention with the commission serving as guarantor. The commission urges the court to consider an acquittal or lenient sentence, emphasising substantive justice over formalistic approaches, the creative nature of videography work, and prioritising state loss recovery over imprisonment. This intervention highlights concerns over over-criminalisation in Indonesia's creative industry and its potential to stifle innovation.

Boredom and brand names motivate Blok M prostitutes

Boredom and brand names motivate Blok M prostitutes JAKARTA (JP): It seems that discussing sex in public is no longer considered taboo here. The subject is a hot topic not only for some TV talk shows but also in seminars. But not in schools. "Our current education system has yet to accommodate sex in its curriculum...

Police urged to reveal other Ecstasy cases

Police urged to reveal other Ecstasy cases JAKARTA (JP): The House of Representatives wants police to have success in Ecstasy-related cases after bringing suspect Zarina home from her hideout in Houston, U.S. Abu Hasan Sazili, deputy chairman of the Commission I of the House, said Zarina's return from Houston to Jakarta on Sunday relieved everyone. Police should work harder to reveal other Ecstasy-related cases, he said.

Asian recovery, Afghan reconstruction to dominate ADB talks

Asian recovery, Afghan reconstruction to dominate ADB talks Agence France-Presse Manila Sustaining economic recovery with an assault on poverty in Asia and rebuilding war-ravaged Afghanistan are the main issues at an upcoming Asian Development Bank's meeting, the bank's chief said. Some 3,000 delegates will attend the 35th annual meeting of ADB's board of governors in Shanghai from May 10 to 12.

Discourse attempts to address problems of multiculturalism

Discourse attempts to address problems of multiculturalism JAKARTA (JP): Rarely in the world is there a city that has as diverse a cultural history as Jakarta. In this city recently swept by savage acts of ethnic violence, cultural influences from Hindu, Islamic, Sinic and Western civilizations have settled and blended into the local culture.

Jakarta Post journalist wins IHRA Award 2003

Jakarta Post journalist wins IHRA Award 2003 The Jakarta Post Jakarta The Jakarta Post's reporter I Wayan Juniartha won the International Harm Reduction Association (IHRA) Media Award 2003 for his honest and courageous reporting of issues related to the reduction in the use of illegal drugs.

Jakarta Post journalist wins IHRA Award 2003

Jakarta Post journalist wins IHRA Award 2003 The Jakarta Post Jakarta The Jakarta Post's reporter I Wayan Juniartha won the International Harm Reduction Association (IHRA) Media Award 2003 for his honest and courageous reporting of issues related to the reduction in the use of illegal drugs.

Prabowo Convenes Nine Ministers Meeting at Hambalang

President Prabowo Subianto held a strategic cabinet meeting with nine ministers at his private residence in Hambalang, Bogor, on 9 March 2026. The discussion focused on evaluating the government's self-sufficiency programmes for food and energy, as well as preparations for Eid al-Fitr, particularly ensuring food supply and liquefied petroleum gas availability.

Searching for Indonesia on the Web

Searching for Indonesia on the Web By Jules Bell JAKARTA (JP): What is Indonesia's presence on the Internet? Can you shop for batik, stroll through the nation's galleries or search for an Indonesian site in the sea of online data? Of course you can, you just need to know where to look. The two greatest problems with the world wide wonder, the Internet, are that often you end up with a world wide wait, or a world wide wallow.

Changan: Interest in Electric Vehicles Rises, But Sales Still Need Time

Interest in electric vehicles is surging in Indonesia amid global energy crises and fluctuating fuel prices, prompting consumers to view EVs as a practical alternative to conventional cars, according to Changan Auto Indonesia's Head of Marketing. While showroom visits and inquiries are increasing, actual sales conversions remain slow due to the significant investment and infrastructure considerations involved in purchasing an EV. Government incentives and advancements in charging technology are expected to accelerate adoption, though the pace of market transition remains uncertain.

Erlan Bachtiar: The Helmsman of Digital Transformation and the Manifestation of the Digital Business Campus

Erlan Bachtiar, the young CEO of PT Mekanika Global Mandiri (PT MGM), has transformed the traditional manufacturing firm into a progressive technology solutions provider, drawing on his educational background from Universitas Nusa Mandiri (UNM), known as the Digital Business Campus. Starting his career as a Service Advisor, Bachtiar built a strong foundation in customer service and empathy, which now aids him in leading thousands. His studies in Information Systems at UNM, particularly courses in Enterprise Resource Planning and Enterprise Architecture, directly informed PT MGM's expansion into IT solutions, enabling partnerships with major entities like PT Cimory, Pertamina, and Polres Metro Depok, thus demonstrating the practical relevance of UNM's curriculum to large-scale business efficiency.

New marketing plan a must to enlarge market percentage

New marketing plan a must to enlarge market percentage Tony Hotland, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Indonesian companies must escalate their marketing strategy from the customer satisfaction level to the sensational level in a bid to snatch the largest market share in coming years. "What they're doing now is only at the level of customer satisfaction.

NAM seeks united stance on NPT

NAM seeks united stance on NPT JAKARTA (JP): As developed and developing countries begin considering the future of the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), ministers of the 111-nation Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) will attempt to find a common position on the issue when they meet in Bandung, West Java, next week.

On the Agenda

On the Agenda From May 20 to June 7, Bali will host a number of national, regional and international meetings, including the Preparatory Committee Meeting (Prep-Com) IV for the World Summit on Sustainable Development and the parallel meeting the People's Forum which, which will be held from May 24 to June 6. Prep-Com IV will take place at the Bali International Convention Center in Nusa Dua from May 27 to June 7.

Women in Surakarta loyal to Megawati

Women in Surakarta loyal to Megawati By Haryoso SURAKARTA, Central Java (JP): Some people are loyal forever, especially to a leader under pressure. This is the case for about 50 women in the Central Java town of Surakarta. They have declared their unwavering loyalty to the ousted Indonesian Democratic Party (PDI) chief, Megawati Soekarnoputri. They help guard the PDI branch office on Brengosan village day and night as a token of support for Megawati.

President 'must be people's choice'

President 'must be people's choice' JAKARTA (JP): Future Indonesian presidents should be the people's choice, observers said over the weekend. They threw their weight behind a direct presidential electoral system, which has been a topic of public debate in recent days. Ikrar Nusa Bhakti of the Indonesian Institute of Sciences (LIPI) and Ramlan Surbakti of Airlangga University, Surabaya, support a presidential electoral system that would not involve the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR).

Today, President Prabowo Invites Islamic Organisations and Pondok Pesantren Leaders to Iftar at the Palace

President Prabowo Subianto will host an iftar with Islamic organisations (ormas) and pondok pesantren (ponpes) leaders at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta on 5 March, confirmed by the Majelis Ulama Indonesia (MUI). The gathering aims to bolster government policy legitimacy through religious leaders and cross-party figures, following earlier invitations to ulama and discussions on Indonesia's Board of Peace and international diplomacy.

Muhammadiyah Bali Emphasises Harmony Among the Faithful Despite Differences in Eid Prayer Timing

Muhammadiyah Bali has urged its followers to maintain harmony despite differing dates for Eid al-Fitr prayers this year, with the organisation observing the holiday on 20 March while the government follows 21 March. The leadership highlighted the importance of viewing such differences as a blessing rather than a source of conflict, extending this message of unity to interfaith relations, particularly with the Hindu community following their recent Nyepi celebration. The smooth conduct of Eid prayers, supported by local authorities and traditional security, underscores the strength of religious tolerance in Bali.

BKPM Confirms Sharp Decline in Thuggery Cases Affecting Investors

JAKARTA — Deputy Minister of Investment and Downstreaming/Deputy Head of the Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM) Todotua Pasaribu has revealed that cases of thuggery (premanisme) disturbing investors have decreased significantly. Although he did not disclose detailed data on the decline, he confirmed the improvement through regular reports submitted by regional police chiefs (Kapolda) across the country.

State treasury to control reforestation funds

State treasury to control reforestation funds JAKARTA (JP): Forestry Minister Djamaludin Suryohadikusumo announced plans to tighten control of the use of reforestation funds yesterday by counting them in the state budget. But he did not rule out allocating a portion of the reforestation funds to pulp and paper companies. He said the House of Representatives was deliberating a bill on nontax revenue, including reforestation funds.

Susilo leads, voters hope for better future

Susilo leads, voters hope for better future Bambang Nurbianto, Jakarta With around 67 percent of the vote already counted on Wednesday, election front-runner Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono topped the provisional tally in the capital with 37.80 percent and is assured of entering the runoff in September. His lead has been a hot topic of discussion among Jakartans in government offices, commercial places, coffee shops, public buses and traditional markets.

Youths prefer worship to parties on New Year

Youths prefer worship to parties on New Year JAKARTA (JP): Youth organizations at several houses of worship here are set to organize religious activities to mark the New Year, which falls on Saturday, amid growing tendencies among city dwellers to exuberantly celebrate the annual event which will also be the changing of the millennium.

U.S. parties see human rights as important issue

U.S. parties see human rights as important issue JAKARTA (JP): Observers of American politics said yesterday that whether a Republican or a Democrat is elected to the White House in November, human rights will continue to feature in relations between Jakarta and Washington. "Whoever is in power, they will still be bearing down on us on human rights issues," said former Indonesia ambassador to Washington Hasnan Habib.

What issues lies ahead in the Internet and e-Business world?

What issues lies ahead in the Internet and e-Business world? By Zatni Arbi SINGAPORE (JP): When someone from the Framingham-based IT research company International Data Corporation (IDC) speaks, heads in the IT industry turn. Therefore, it was no surprise that there were many top executives of Indonesian IT companies at IDC's Asia Pacific IT Forum 2000 in Suntec City, Singapore, early last week.

Islamic Pesantren Character Development Initiative at Lirboyo Highlights Students' Role in National Building

The Indonesian Ministry of Religion held its "Pesantren Breakfasting: Dialogue and Quran Study Session with Students" at Lirboyo Islamic Boarding School in Kediri, focusing on character development of pesantren students as a critical foundation for the nation's future. Senior Ministry officials emphasised that pesantren education provides 24-hour integrated character and spiritual development through holistic interaction between religious scholars, students, dormitory life, and mosque settings, protecting students from drugs and moral degradation whilst instilling Islamic values through practice. The initiative demonstrates the government's commitment to supporting pesantren as Indonesia's indigenous educational institution that cultivates intellectual and social capital for the coming generation.

OPIC Urges US Investors to Turn Their Focus to Regions

The chief of the Overseas Private Investment Corporation has urged US companies to cast their gaze outside of Java Island to tap the growing potential of Indonesia’s outlying regions. “Be patient, be persistent and aim for long-term partnerships,” OPIC president and chief executive Elizabeth Littlefield said at the close of a two-day conference in Jakarta on Thursday.

Image of Toddler on Foreign Bottled Water Packaging Deemed to Violate Regulations, BPKN and KPAI Respond

A foreign bottled water (AMDK) product's packaging featuring an image of a toddler has sparked controversy, with state agencies like BPKN and KPAI deeming it a violation of BPOM regulations that prohibit such depictions on general food products to avoid misleading consumers. BPKN Chairman Mufti Mubarok highlighted the risk of creating false perceptions that the water is formulated for infants, contravening consumer protection laws, and pledged to follow up on complaints with recommendations for sanctions. KPAI's Jasra Putra emphasised that children should not be exploited in marketing, underscoring the need to prioritise child welfare over commercial interests.

Governor wants public support for anti-AIDS campaign

Governor wants public support for anti-AIDS campaign JAKARTA (JP): Governor Surjadi Soedirdja wants Jakartans to work hand in hand with city officials in the state-sponsored drive to prevent the spread of the Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome. "Based on the latest data from the Ministry of Health, 74 of the 214 people suffering from AIDS in the country are Jakartans," Surjadi said. Surjadi was speaking at the opening of a one-day workshop on AIDS prevention at City Hall yesterday.

Sutiyoso prohibits schools to take admission fees

Sutiyoso prohibits schools to take admission fees Damar Harsanto, Jakarta Jakarta Governor Sutiyoso has prohibited state schools from demanding fees for new students during the upcoming admissions period. "During admission, schools must not charge anything, including disguised fees that in the end require students to pay up if they want to be admitted," he said on Thursday.

Legal system not responsive to changing climate

Legal system not responsive to changing climate JAKARTA (JP): Indonesia's legal system is not responsive to the rapidly changing societal environment and this partly accounts for the waning reputation of the country's courts, Justice Minister Oetojo Oesman said yesterday.

Motivated students more apt to learn something

Motivated students more apt to learn something By Hendra Gunawan BANDUNG (JP): I could try to teach my dog how to whistle, but I guess -- however hard I tried -- my dog would not learn. I could not then call it teaching, could I? If it was teaching, then it should be categorized as bad teaching. Everybody would agree that the main task of a school teacher is to teach. But what is teaching for? Is it just to fulfill the task?

Taiwan's DPP downplays China's attack against VP-elect Lu

Taiwan's DPP downplays China's attack against VP-elect Lu TAIPEI (AFP): Taiwan's Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) played down on Wednesday China's recent barrage of vitriolic attacks against vice president-elect Annette Lu. Beijing "simply tried to exert its pressure (on Taiwan) using Lu as a topic," DPP chairman Lin Yi-hsiung said when asked to comment on the Chinese moves. "Virtually all the DPP members were treated the same way (by Beijing)," Lin said.

Philippine minister: ASEAN must fight transnational crime

Philippine minister: ASEAN must fight transnational crime BANGKOK (AP): Philippine Foreign Minister Domingo Siazon said on Monday that ASEAN quickly needs a task force to fight transnational crime like trafficking in drugs, arms and human beings. Siazon proposed that the 10-nation group -- which includes the world's chief heroin-producing region in the Golden Triangle where Laos, Thailand and Myanmar meet -- launch its planned Center for Combating Transnational Crime within this year.

Golkar's policy draft to be used as reference

Golkar's policy draft to be used as reference JAKARTA (JP): After a week of debate, minority factions in the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) agreed yesterday to use Golkar's draft as the outline for drawing up the coming state policy guidelines (GBHN). After a week of delays and long debates, representatives of the United Development Party (PPP) and the Indonesian Democratic Party (PDI) acquiesced with a note of defiance.

Finance Ministry Official Spreads Rumor of State Budget Depletion in Two Weeks, Purbaya: I'm Confused

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa expressed bewilderment over an internal rumour from the Ministry claiming the State Budget (APBN) would be exhausted in two weeks without a rise in subsidised fuel prices. He assured that the budget remains secure even with global oil prices averaging US$100 per barrel, projecting a deficit of around 2.9% of GDP, and confirmed no increases for subsidised fuel through the end of 2026. This statement aims to calm public concerns amid rising oil prices, highlighting the government's preparedness in fiscal planning.

North Sulawesi Police Deliver Scathing Response on Viral Claim that Officer Was Transferred for Investigating Alleged Corruption Case

The North Sulawesi Regional Police (Polda Sulut) has clarified that Vicky Katiandagho's resignation from the Indonesian National Police (Polri) was not triggered by a routine transfer linked to his anti-corruption investigations, as speculated on social media. The transfer in 2024 was part of standard personnel rotation procedures, while his early retirement application was submitted in 2025 and approved in January 2026. This response underscores the collective nature of case handling within the force and dispels rumours suggesting retaliation against vigilant officers.

West Sumatra councillors to tour region amid protests

West Sumatra councillors to tour region amid protests Kasparman, The Jakarta Post, Padang, West Sumatra Despite strong public criticism, all 55 members of the West Sumatra legislature are to go ahead with their plan to tour three neighboring countries: Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore. West Sumatra Councillors Speaker Arwan Kasri told The Jakarta Post earlier this week that the trips were working visits designed to discuss the implementation of regional cooperation accords.

Jakarta's top executives discuss the Internet in detail

Jakarta's top executives discuss the Internet in detail By Dean Carignan JAKARTA (JP): When 90 of Jakarta's top executives gathered last Monday to discuss the future of Information Technology, the result was a shock: no discussion of databases, financial software, or even management information systems. Rather, the entire dialogue focused around a single recurring theme: the Internet.

RI to fight terrorism: Megawati tells Bush

RI to fight terrorism: Megawati tells Bush By Febiola Desy Unidjaya WASHINGTON (JP): President Megawati Soekarnoputri pledged here on Wednesday that Indonesia would help the United States in its fight against international terrorism. "Indonesia is always against violence. Terrorism is an act of violence so we will definitely fight terrorism," Megawati told United States President George Bush minutes before they held a talk in the Oval Office at the White House.

RI to fight terrorism: Megawati tells Bush

RI to fight terrorism: Megawati tells Bush By Febiola Desy Unidjaya WASHINGTON (JP): President Megawati Soekarnoputri pledged here on Wednesday that Indonesia would help the United States in its fight against international terrorism. "Indonesia is always against violence. Terrorism is an act of violence so we will definitely fight terrorism," Megawati told United States President George Bush minutes before they held a talk in the Oval Office at the White House.

After passing resolution, IPU closes its conference

After passing resolution, IPU closes its conference JAKARTA (JP): The 104th Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) closed its week-long conference by calling for a review on the effectiveness of embargoes and economic sanctions to resolve international issues. The conference also called for a reassessment of various international and unilateral sanctions such as those imposed on Burundi, Cuba and the United Nations' sanction on Iraq.

PLN's Gas Supply for Power Plants Sufficient for 12 Days of Operation

PT PLN (Persero) reports that its gas supply for power generation is secure, with an average reserve of 12 days of operation, ensuring the stability of the national electricity system amid the transition to domestic energy sources. Coal stocks stand at 15.9 days, supporting a net capacity of 71 GW and a 39% reserve margin, which is deemed ample to bolster economic growth. The company is prioritising the reduction of imported fuel oil use in 741 diesel power plant locations and advancing infrastructure like a 48,000 km green supergrid to harness renewable energy potential and achieve energy self-sufficiency.

DPR Commission V Chairman Opposes VAT on Toll Roads: It Would Burden the People

Lasarus, Chairman of DPR Commission V, has expressed strong opposition to the proposed imposition of Value Added Tax (VAT) on toll roads, arguing that it would ultimately burden toll road users amid uncertain geopolitical and economic conditions and rising fuel prices. The Directorate General of Taxes (DJP) has clarified that the plan, outlined in their 2025-2029 Strategic Plan, remains in the policy planning stage and is not yet implemented, with any future rollout to involve comprehensive studies and inter-ministerial coordination to ensure fairness and sustainability. This debate highlights tensions between expanding the tax base for fiscal development and protecting public affordability in Indonesia's infrastructure sector.

Bush Supports Indonesia Bio-fuel Initiatives

The US is "very supportive" of biofuel initiatives, President George Bush said on Monday (20/11/06) during a visit to Indonesia, which is trying to develop that sector as it copes with growing energy demand. Bush and Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono said the issue was a major topic in their discussions, and that the US had agreed to help Indonesia with technology in the area. "I am very supportive of bio-fuel initiatives, starting in our own country.

Gambling talks end in tension

Gambling talks end in tension Damar Harsanto, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta A discussion aimed at addressing gambling in the capital on Tuesday ended in tension when a number of participants expressed scorn for the event organizer, who they accused of being manipulative.

Habibie's careless assumption

Habibie's careless assumption This time I would like to share with you my feeling of satisfaction that I made no slip of the pen in a number of letters in which I said it was improper for Akbar Tandjung to be general chairman of Golkar Party and at the same time keep his post as state secretary. This situation could not be allowed in order to prevent abuse of power and funds.

Antigraft campaign not selling in Muhammadiyah

Antigraft campaign not selling in Muhammadiyah ID Nugroho The Jakarta Post/Malang The joining of forces by Indonesia's two largest Muslim organizations to boost the national drive against deep-rooted corruption may only be lip service, according to Muhammadiyah's intellectuals. There was no resistance from within Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) and Muhammadiyah, but their joint movement to fight corruption has yet to make any progress, as many of its members stand accused of involvement in corruption.

Antigraft campaign not selling in Muhammadiyah

Antigraft campaign not selling in Muhammadiyah ID Nugroho, The Jakarta Post, Malang The joining of forces by Indonesia's two largest Muslim organizations to boost the national drive against deep-rooted corruption may only be lip service, according to Muhammadiyah's intellectuals. There was no resistance from within Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) and Muhammadiyah, but their joint movement to fight corruption has yet to make any progress, as many of its members stand accused of involvement in corruption.

Soeharto and Chirac to hold talks in Bangkok

Soeharto and Chirac to hold talks in Bangkok JAKARTA (JP): French President Jacques Chirac will hold private talks with Indonesia's President Soeharto at next month's Asia-Europe Meeting in Bangkok. Visiting French foreign minister Herve de Charette revealed the news yesterday afternoon. "President Chirac and Soeharto will meet and hold talks at the Bangkok Summit," he said through his interpreter during the media briefing at the conclusion of his visit.

DPR’s Commission X to summon Kemendiktisaintek after student violence case at Undip

The X Commission of the Indonesian House of Representatives plans to summon the Ministry of Education, Higher Education, Science, and Technology to review measures against violence in educational environments after a beating of a student at Diponegoro University (Undip). The meeting, to be held after Eid al-Fitr 2026, will assess existing rules, including Permendikbudristek, and may consider new legislation if current regulations are found inadequate.

ABRI cannot stay neutral, Syarwan says

ABRI cannot stay neutral, Syarwan says JAKARTA (JP): As a social and political force, the Armed Forces (ABRI) cannot be neutral. It has to choose a partner with whom it can reach its ideals, a high ranking military official said yesterday. "We need to have a partner in order to strive to achieve our goals," said Maj. Gen. Syarwan Hamid, the assistant to ABRI chief of social and political affairs.

Police Request Reports of Alleged Treason Against Saiful Mujani Not to Be Pulled into SARA Issues

Jakarta Metropolitan Police have emphasised that reports alleging treason against political analyst Saiful Mujani must not be diverted into ethnic, religious, racial, or inter-group (SARA) issues or political interests, insisting on procedural and transparent handling open to public scrutiny. The reports, stemming from a video clip where Saiful called for consolidating efforts to oust President Prabowo to save Indonesia, were filed on 8 April 2026 under relevant legal provisions but may not proceed if insufficient evidence is found. This case highlights tensions around free speech and political dissent in Indonesia's post-election landscape.

Agency under fire over proposal to buy 60 guns

Agency under fire over proposal to buy 60 guns JAKARTA (JP): The City Public Order Office's plan to buy 60 more guns is an indication that it has declared "war" against its own residents, especially the disadvantaged, activists said on Saturday.

The number two man

The number two man The five-yearly meeting of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR), which will elect the republic's president and vice president, is only four months away. But just the same, most people are still reluctant to speak about the future national leadership. The reasons behind the mass silence are not pointless shyness nor unnecessary politeness, but rather a certainty that their opinions would be useless.

Taxing extra cars

Taxing extra cars Days after it was announced that the Jakarta city administration was planning to introduce a progressive tax system for cars, the news remains a topic of conversation among vehicle owners in this capital city. The reason is of course obvious. For many of Jakarta's families owning more than one car has since long stopped being a luxury. One argument that is often heard is that at present, relatively few families remain in which the husband or father is the sole breadwinner.

220 Young People from 25 Countries Gather to Discuss Global Issues

The 27th Asia Youth International Model United Nations Virtual Conference (AYIMUN VC), organised by International Global Network (IGN), brought together 220 delegates from 25 countries on 14–15 February 2026 to debate pressing global issues including plastic pollution, public health, climate resilience, and Arctic security.

UN envoy Marker meets with Habibie, Alatas on East Timor

UN envoy Marker meets with Habibie, Alatas on East Timor JAKARTA (JP): Visiting UN special envoy Jamsheed Marker said Tuesday he was assured of Indonesia's "firm commitment" to negotiations which have dragged on for years regarding East Timor. He held separate meetings with President B.J. Habibie and Foreign Minister Ali Alatas Tuesday to discuss the government's proposal to give autonomy to East Timor.

East Asia summit urged to tackle global economic sluggishness

East Asia summit urged to tackle global economic sluggishness Deutsche-Presse Agence, Singapore Political and business leaders from 32 countries were urged on Sunday at the World Economic Forum's (WEF) East Asia summit to tackle global economic sluggishness, greying populations and terrorism.

Suprapti: An unemotional expert on emotions

Suprapti: An unemotional expert on emotions JAKARTA (JP): For some academics at the School of Psychology, University of Indonesia, it was only fitting that Dr. Suprapti Sumarmo Markam chose "experience of emotions" as the topic for her doctoral dissertation as well as her scientific oration marking her professorship. Suprapti's study, which helped her obtain her doctoral degree cum laude, was on the wide range of such basic emotions as sadness, happiness, anger and fear.

Official defends bans on series of NGO meetings

Official defends bans on series of NGO meetings JAKARTA (JP): The government denied allegations yesterday that permits for political gatherings and art performances are issued on a discriminatory basis. "The criteria are not so much based on who holds or addresses the meeting but on a consistent enforcement of the law," said Sutoyo N.K., the director general for socio-political affairs of the Ministry of Home Affairs.

'Plans to list Minamas on track'

'Plans to list Minamas on track' Dow Jones, Kuala Lumpur Malaysian plantation group Kumpulan Guthrie Bhd. on Wednesday said plans to list its Indonesian unit are on track given the unit's improved pretax profit and production levels. Kumpulan Guthrie Chief Executive Abdul Khalid Ibrahim said 2002 pretax profit at its Indonesia-based Minamas Plantations, was up 30 percent over 2001, at 57 million ringgit.

Rumors on Puteh's dismissal abound

Rumors on Puteh's dismissal abound The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Rumors have been making the rounds in Aceh that Governor Abdullah Puteh will be dismissed for his failure to control the war-torn province. Antara news agency reported on Saturday that the rumored dismissal had become a hot topic of conversation among locals.

Pramono Gathers BUMDs to Anticipate Global Turbulence and El Niño

The Jakarta Provincial Government is pushing for the consolidation of regional-owned enterprises (BUMDs) to bolster local economic resilience amid global geopolitical pressures and climate risks like El Niño. Governor Pramono Anung emphasised the need for aligned business strategies and improved corporate governance during the BUMD Leaders Forum, highlighting recent credit facilities signed with Bank Jakarta to enhance financial independence. This initiative aims to position Jakarta as a more robust global city by strengthening BUMD roles in financing development projects in infrastructure, property, and food distribution.

Iran Closes Strait of Hormuz; Indonesia's Fuel Stock Claimed Sufficient for 20 Days

Iran has closed the Strait of Hormuz amid escalating conflict with the United States and Israel, triggering a global oil price surge with Brent crude reaching US$78.91 per barrel. Indonesia's Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has assured the nation's fuel security is stable, stating current crude oil stocks are sufficient for 20 days of consumption, though Indonesia continues to import approximately 1 million barrels daily. The government is preparing contingency measures and coordinating with the National Energy Council to monitor geopolitical developments and assess potential impacts on domestic energy subsidies.

Govt pins more hopes on SOE dividends

Govt pins more hopes on SOE dividends Urip Hudiono, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Upbeat that this year will be a profitable one for state-owned enterprises (SOEs), State Minister for State Enterprises Sugiharto says the government will maximize their dividend payments, rather than pushing for their privatization, to help finance the budget.

Political leaders meet at Cholil's residence

Political leaders meet at Cholil's residence The Jakarta Post, Jakarta A number of political leaders belonging to a loose grouping of Islamic parties, plus some Golkar Party legislators, met at the residence of deputy speaker of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) Cholil Bisri on Jl. Kemanggisan Ilir 2B, Slipi, on Thursday evening, with the host denying that the gathering had any political agenda.

RI human rights concept respected

RI human rights concept respected JAKARTA (JP): A top U.S. diplomat yesterday praised Indonesia's concept of human rights only three days after Washington criticized Jakarta for extending the prison sentence of a local labor union leader convicted of instigating a riot last year.

Photographer vows to always come back

Photographer vows to always come back Sri Wahyuni, The Jakarta Post, Yogyakarta It may not have occurred to Australian photographer Bill Morrow that his first trip to Yogyakarta, in 1981, would end up with his deep love of the city. So profound that he cannot stay away or stop taking photos for his documentation and collecting various mementos. "This is my 18th visit to Yogyakarta. Still, I'd love to come back here again and again," Morrow told The Jakarta Post earlier this week.

Strange things afoot in KONI election

Strange things afoot in KONI election Musthofid, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The three-day congress of the National Sports Council (KONI) began on Tuesday with the council chairmanship candidacy becoming a hot issue outside the meeting hall. "Do we still need permission from our superiors when we take on dual functions in this era? That should be out of fashion by now," Hari Sabarno, Minister of Home Affairs, said after his presentation before the congress participants.

Seminars, in a way, wasteful

Seminars, in a way, wasteful JAKARTA (JP): President Soeharto recently appealed to government officials to hold working conferences and seminars at government premises rather than at hotels or convention centers. It is a timely call and in line with the general imperative for frugal government spending. Frugality, in the use of hackneyed phrases, is another timely homily.

Former Indonesian Ambassador to Iran Dian Wirengjurit Claims US Attack on Iran is Diversion from Epstein Files Issue

Former Indonesian Ambassador to Iran, Dian Wirengjurit, has criticised the US military strikes on Iran as a deliberate distraction by President Donald Trump from the domestic scandal involving the Epstein Files, which implicate high-profile figures including Trump himself. She highlighted the economic costs of the conflict, potential violations of US law without Congressional approval, and expressed scepticism about President Prabowo Subianto's suitability as a mediator in the US-Israel-Iran tensions, urging Indonesia to prioritise its internal issues. Dian also noted the lack of requests for Indonesia's mediation role and criticised the country's participation in Trump-initiated Gaza peace initiatives.

Want the KRL Green Line Free from 'Chaos' and 'Horror'? Here Are the Conditions

The KRL Commuter Line on the Tanah Abang-Rangkasbitung route, known as the Green Line, is facing severe overcrowding with passenger numbers rising from 43 million in 2022 to over 77 million projected for 2025, leading to daily chaos for commuters. PT KAI Commuter has attempted to alleviate the issue through additional trips and trials of 12-car trains, but limitations in electrical capacity, platform lengths, and outdated signalling systems prevent effective implementation. Upgrades to power supply, station infrastructure, and signalling are essential to reduce headways and enable longer trains, with ongoing coordination between KAI Commuter, KAI, and the government to improve the rail service.

TV reporter Ira Koesno escapes political fire

TV reporter Ira Koesno escapes political fire JAKARTA (JP): Several days before former president Soeharto stepped down, he still tried to hold onto power by announcing he would reshuffle the cabinet -- an effort which proved futile. And just two days before he announced he would reshuffle the cabinet, TV reporter Ira Koesno asked one of this year's most controversial questions live on a local news program watched nationwide.

Activist says Marzuki leaked Bank Bali story

Activist says Marzuki leaked Bank Bali story JAKARTA (JP): With the Attorney General's Office still examining the corruption aspects of the Bank Bali scandal, Jakarta Police have opened an investigation into possible criminal aspects of the US$70 million under-the-table payment. Labor activist Eggy Sudjana met with city police chief Maj. Gen.

Legislators may suffer from political backtrack

Legislators may suffer from political backtrack A'an Suryana and Kurniawan Hari, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Legislators from PDI-Perjuangan may backtrack on the political party's previous stance concerning the establishment of a special committee to probe the Rp 40 billion Bulog scam implicating House Speaker and Golkar Party chairman Akbar Tandjung.

ABRI, Golkar refusal to rights decree questioned

ABRI, Golkar refusal to rights decree questioned SEMARANG (JP): Two leading human rights campaigners joined the chorus for the establishment of an Indonesian human rights charter yesterday. Baharuddin Lopa and Muladi, both members of the National Commission on Human Rights, separately expressed their belief that such a charter would guarantee better protection for people's basic rights.

Jakarta gears up for many VIP guests

Jakarta gears up for many VIP guests Adianto P. Simamora Jakarta Indonesia, the current chair of the Association of the Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), will host a series of regional ministerial level meetings in Jakarta in the coming three weeks. The first will be the 37th ASEAN Ministerial Meeting (AMM), on June 29 and 30.

Actions speak louder than words

Actions speak louder than words I am pleased that my article RI education system needs a revolution, published in two parts, Sept. 2 and Sept. 3, attracted some comments from readers (Freddy Kirana, Sept. 10, and S. Aungles, Sept. 12). It is a pity that S. Aungles only read one part of my article (Sept. 2) otherwise he would have saved himself the embarrassment of advocating misdirected nationalism or regionalism.

Jakarta gears up for ASEAN guests

Jakarta gears up for ASEAN guests Adianto P. Simamora, Jakarta Indonesia, the current chair of the Association of the Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), will host a series of regional ministerial level meetings in Jakarta in the coming three weeks. The first will be the 37th ASEAN Ministerial Meeting (AMM), on June 29 and 30.

Capturing home culture on a cell phone

Capturing home culture on a cell phone Rachel Greaves, Contributor, Kerobokan When Bali resident Bob Calabritto saw an advertisement on Discovery Channel for the First-Time Mobile Filmmakers Awards contest, he had one of his usual creative dreams. The interesting combination of filmmaking and technology was a subject that had fascinated the native New Yorker for a long time. Working in Indonesia as a creative consultant and magazine editor, Calabritto had already created a number of short films.

N. Korea to attend ARF meeting: RI

N. Korea to attend ARF meeting: RI Agencies, Seoul North Korea will send its foreign minister to a regional forum in July, where concern over the communist state's nuclear weapons development will be a key topic, Indonesia's foreign minister said on Tuesday. "Following my talks in Pyongyang, I can say with confidence there are reasons to be optimistic Foreign Minister Paek Nam-sun will be attending ...

Muhammadiyah executive to quit over Israel trip

Muhammadiyah executive to quit over Israel trip SOLO, Central Java (JP): Muhammadiyah, the country's largest socio-educational organization, has disciplined the head of its foreign relations department for visiting Israel last year. The meeting of the Muhammadiyah policy-making body (Tanwir), in a manner unfamiliar to other organizations, Saturday night asked Habib Chirzin, "to resign from his post" until its 43rd congress in Banda Aceh in July.

BRIN Researcher Reveals Bias in Weather Predictions in Indonesia, Global Models Miss Peak Rainfall by 5 Hours

BRIN researcher Sopia Lestari has identified a persistent bias in global atmospheric models that inaccurately predict peak rainfall times in Indonesia's Maritime Continent by up to five hours, particularly during Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO) phases. Her study highlights discrepancies between model simulations and satellite observations, such as double peaks in observed rainfall versus single peaks in models, and significant time lags in daily rainfall cycles over regions like Sumatra and Borneo. This underscores the challenges posed by Indonesia's complex topography and the need for more research on rainfall types to improve weather forecasting accuracy in this critical tropical region.

Radio Korea, a listening alternative for Indonesians

Radio Korea, a listening alternative for Indonesians By I. Christianto SEOUL (JP): Through the inventions of those such as Sammuel F.B. Morse and Guglielmo Marconi, people throughout the world are able to enjoy point-to-point communication via radio broadcasting. The Voice of Korea, also known as Radio Korea, is an international radio broadcast transmitted from Yoido-Dong Youngdungpo-Ku, Seoul. Radio Korea, a member of the Korean Broadcasting System (KBS) division, was founded on Aug. 15, 1973.

Italian dancer to show 'Topeng Bali'

Italian dancer to show 'Topeng Bali' By Retno Pujiastuti JAKARTA (JP): There is nothing unusual about a performance of Topeng Bali when it is done by Indonesians, but it does make for news when the dancer is an Italian national who has conducted an intensive study of the art form. Carmencita Palermo will take center stage for Topeng di Bali: Ritus-Tari-Topeng (The Mask in Bali: Rite-Dance-Mask) at 10 a.m. on Monday at the Italian Cultural Center Jakarta in Menteng, Central Jakarta.

John Naisbitt to speak on next economic boom

John Naisbitt to speak on next economic boom JAKARTA (JP): John Naisbitt, the author of Megatrends and Global Paradox, will discuss the next boom predicted for 2020 for government decision makers, ambassadors, conglomerate owners and top local executives at Jakarta Convention Center on June 7.

Intensive Education in Various Cities - Mirae Asset Sekuritas Strengthens Retail Investor Base

PT Mirae Asset Sekuritas Indonesia is actively expanding its retail investor base through a series of capital market literacy programmes conducted across multiple cities in Indonesia, aiming to foster more knowledgeable and confident investors. From January to March 2026, the company has reached nearly 2,000 participants in 11 cities with interactive sessions on topics such as portfolio management and trading platforms, including specialised events in Bali and Pontianak addressing market dynamics and investment strategies. This initiative underscores Mirae Asset's long-term commitment to building trust, enhancing financial literacy, and promoting sustainable growth in Indonesia's capital markets.

West Java Provincial Secretary Visits Investment Ministry to Discuss Data Integration for Accelerating Investment

KORAN GALA - West Java Provincial Secretary Herman Suryatman visited the Ministry of Investment and Downstreaming/Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM) in Jakarta on Friday (25/7/2025). Herman Suryatman and the West Java provincial government delegation were received by Deputy for Investment Climate Development Riyanto and Deputy for Investment Information Technology Ricky Kusmayadi.

Confirmation Hearing for DHS Secretary Nominee: Markwayne Mullin Pledges to Protect All Citizens and End "Political Theatre"

US Senator Markwayne Mullin, nominated to lead the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) following Kristi Noem's resignation, faced intense scrutiny during his Senate confirmation hearing over past controversial statements and the agency's funding crisis amid a prolonged government shutdown. Mullin committed to a fairer approach to immigration enforcement, protecting all Americans, and addressing operational challenges like unpaid essential workers and stricter ICE procedures. The hearing highlighted partisan tensions but also signs of reconciliation, with a committee vote scheduled for the following day.

ABRI and civilians

ABRI and civilians When I read in The Jakarta Post of Sept. 9, the statement made by a well respected political scientist, Prof Dr Juwono Sudarsono, vice governor of the National Resilience Institute, I was surprised or, perhaps better, shocked. He said no civilian for the time being is fit to fill the position of president and that this position should still be in the hands of Armed Forces officers, especially those from the Army.

ASEAN, EU say free trade offers benefits to all

ASEAN, EU say free trade offers benefits to all BANGKOK (Reuter): Increased trade between Europe and Southeast Asia offers more jobs and increased prosperity to both sides, senior officials from the regions said yesterday.

Ulemas asked to help improve haj management

Ulemas asked to help improve haj management JAKARTA (JP): President Soeharto has asked ulemas and members of Moslem organizations to help the government improve the haj pilgrimage operation next year by providing suggestions and criticisms. Minister of Religious Affairs Tarmizi Taher said after meeting with Soeharto yesterday that the government would be "approaching" experienced ulemas for comments regarding the service provided to pilgrims during this year's haj season, which ended last week.

PDI-P to Mediate Between Lebak Regent and Deputy Regent Amid Heated Public Exchanges

The PDI-P party is set to intervene in the escalating public spat between Lebak Regent Hasbi Asyidiki Jayabaya and his deputy Amir Hamzah, following mutual personal insults that have drawn widespread attention. Party officials emphasise the need for the officials to prioritise public service and development in Lebak over personal conflicts, likening their relationship to a harmonious marriage essential for effective governance. The mediation aims to foster unity and prevent further detriment to the region's progress, highlighting the political risks of such discord for both leaders.

Socialisation of Pancasila Education Learning, DKI Jakarta Collaborates with BPIP

The DKI Jakarta Provincial Education Office, in collaboration with the Pancasila Ideology Development Agency (BPIP), held a socialisation event on Pancasila education learning and the optimisation of the main textbook (BTU) for Pancasila education in schools across the province. This initiative aims to strengthen Pancasila values among school principals and teachers, following Government Regulation No. 4 of 2022, which mandates Pancasila education as a compulsory subject from primary to high school levels. The BTU, jointly developed by BPIP and the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology, seeks to revive and actualise Pancasila principles for future generations after a two-decade gap post-1998 Reformasi.

`Many would rather go to the mall than read'

`Many would rather go to the mall than read' The Jakarta chapter of the Indonesian Publishers Association is holding this year's annual Jakarta Book Fair at the Bung Karno Sports Stadium in Senayan, Central Jakarta, from May 24 through June 1. The fair has attracted thousands of visitors, but some students who visited the event told The Jakarta Post that reading habits in the country were still far less than they should be.

Moro talks end on high note despite unresolved issues

Moro talks end on high note despite unresolved issues JAKARTA (JP): The Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) and the Philippine government expressed satisfaction yesterday at the conclusion of their peace talks, despite failing to resolve core issues of defense and the implementation of a Moro provisional autonomous government.

29 more East Timor refugees return home

29 more East Timor refugees return home Yemris Fointuna and Jupriadi, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Twenty-nine more refugees, including one marine, have returned to their hometowns in East Timor after spending more than two years in refugee camps in South Sulawesi province.

RI, Malaysia can safeguard Malacca Strait, U.S. says

RI, Malaysia can safeguard Malacca Strait, U.S. says Veeramalla Anjaiah, Jakarta In a clear attempt to calm down Indonesia and Malaysia, a senior U.S. diplomat emphasized on Monday the two countries were more than capable of safeguarding the Strait of Malacca and played down the possibility the superpower would deploy its troops there. "There are lots of strange stories. We have no intentions in the Malacca Straits.

Truth and power

Truth and power The writing of history, and the news, depends on who has the power -- how they remember, what they forget, how they devise standards of truth -- threatening us all with the same patterns of remembering and forgetting. Dissident cultures have been silenced in brutal ways and histories have been edited, constructed and manufactured according to the memory of those in power.

British, RI students discuss youth participation

British, RI students discuss youth participation A. Junaidi, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Politics and democracy do not always concern big issues related to the state; they can also concern the smaller issues and events that can be found in daily life. Youth participation in democracy was the main topic of a series of discussions held from Nov. 27 to Dec.

Perspective on Asian crisis (2)

Perspective on Asian crisis (2) This is the second of two articles based on a paper presented by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands Hans van Mierlo before the Indonesian-Netherlands Association and the Forum Indonesia-Netherlands on Feb. 11, 1998 in Jakarta. JAKARTA: Apart from the effects of the crisis on the global economies, there are other consequences in Asia itself which are, in my view, far more worrying.

Aerograms

Aerograms Every time I write an aerogram--and that is several times a week--I ask myself, "Why can't we buy aerograms with proper gum that one can lick, seal and post?" When I first visited Indonesia for a holiday in 1970 and again in 1971, I found it a bit droll that one had to stick one's finger into a pot of paste in order to seal a letter.

Carter meets Habibie, opposition party leaders

Carter meets Habibie, opposition party leaders JAKARTA (JP): Former United States president Jimmy Carter on Sunday held a series of meetings with President B.J. Habibie and party leaders Amien Rais of the National Mandate Party (PAN) and Megawati Soekarnoputri of the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI Perjuangan). The meetings, held just one day before the general election, were meant to ascertain the leading politicians' concepts for the future.

Megawati returns home from trip abroad

Megawati returns home from trip abroad JAKARTA (JP): Vice President Megawati Soekarnoputri returned home on Tuesday night after a 12-day trip abroad. She arrived on a chartered Garuda Indonesia airplane and was met at Halim Perdanakusumah Airport by, among others, Coordinating Minister for Political, Social and Security Affairs Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, chief of the State Intelligence Coordinating Board Lt. Gen. (ret.) Arie J. Kumaat, Indonesian Military Chief Adm.

A bad precedent

A bad precedent How to read Gus Dur? This question has become a frequent topic of conversation around the country since President Abdurrahman "Gus Dur" Wahid became Indonesia's first democratically elected president in October last year. During the seven months he has been in power, he has managed to upset friends and foes and politicians and legislators by making controversial statements.

Undip Student Assault Incident: Commission X Urges Review of Violence Prevention Regulations

Following a campus assault case at Diponegoro University in Semarang, Commission X of the Indonesian House of Representatives urged the government to reassess violence-prevention rules in educational settings. The discussion covers the Permendikbudristek framework and potential legislative reforms, with a plan to invite the government for talks after Lebaran.

Russia Detains 40 Israeli Citizens at Moscow Airport, What's Going On?

Russian authorities detained at least 40 Israeli citizens, including children, at Moscow's Domodedovo Airport for several hours, subjecting them to intense interrogations, phone searches, and political messages regarding Russia's alliance with Iran amid the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict. The Israeli Foreign Ministry confirmed the incident and has issued a travel warning advising against visits to Russia, while the Russian ambassador denied the allegations of mistreatment and compared procedures unfavourably to those at Israel's Ben Gurion Airport. This episode highlights escalating diplomatic tensions between Russia and Israel, potentially impacting bilateral travel relations.

Foreign National Who Raged Over Recitation Loudspeaker in Gili Trawangan Found to Have Overstayed Visa

A foreign woman who went viral after causing a disturbance at a prayer hall in Gili Trawangan over loudspeakers used for Ramadan Quran recitation has been found to have overstayed her visa. Immigration authorities have taken her into custody and are now determining whether to deport her or pursue other legal sanctions, whilst police have deployed personnel to prevent further tensions between locals and the foreign national's family.

RP needs pact with U.S. to ward off intrusion

RP needs pact with U.S. to ward off intrusion MANILA (AP): President Joseph Estrada urged senators on Sunday to ratify an accord allowing U.S. military exercises in the country, saying it would help the Philippines ward off Chinese intrusions in the disputed Spratly islands. The Philippine Senate began hearings last week on the ratification of the so-called Visiting Forces Agreement, which would allow the resumption of large-scale joint military exercises between the two allies.

South Korean Embassy Admits Mistake in Issuing Travel Warning for Bali and Apologises

The South Korean Embassy in Indonesia has issued an apology for mistakenly releasing a travel advisory warning its citizens about high levels of crime targeting foreigners in Bali, which sparked significant online discussion. Following coordination with Indonesia's Ministries of Tourism and Foreign Affairs, the embassy clarified the advisory was an error by its Consul General and committed to future collaboration on sensitive information to protect Bali's image as a premier tourist destination. Indonesian authorities are enhancing security measures, including risk assessments, integrated reporting, and increased police presence in key areas, to ensure the safety of visitors and sustain the local economy.

Amsal Sitepu Case: DPR Member Claims Karo District Prosecutor's Office Violates New Criminal Procedure Code

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission III, Abdullah, has accused the Head of the Karo District Prosecutor's Office, Danke Rajagukguk, and his staff of violating the new Criminal Procedure Code (KUHAP) in handling the case of videographer Amsal Christy Sitepu, particularly by issuing a letter that misrepresents a court's decision on detention suspension as a transfer. Abdullah demands strict sanctions from the Attorney General's Office and criticises the prosecutor's office for fostering an anti-criticism culture that undermines institutional development and public trust in the justice system. In response to parliamentary concerns about potential intervention and intimidation, the prosecutor attributed discrepancies in official correspondence to a typographical error by his subordinates.

Following the US and Europe, the 'Rasa Bhayangkara Nusantara' Cookbook is Now Distributed to the Middle East

The Indonesian National Police's 'Rasa Bhayangkara Nusantara' cookbook, part of the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) program, has been distributed to the Middle East as part of President Prabowo Subianto's cultural diplomacy initiative. The book, which has already been distributed to Europe and the United States, was presented to the Indonesian Consul General in Jeddah, Yusron Bahauddin Ambary, by the Deputy Chief of Police, Komjen Dedi Prasetyo.

Dangers of Freely Sold Whip Pink Highlighted by BNN Amid Calls for Regulation

Indonesia's National Narcotics Agency (BNN) has flagged the recreational misuse of nitrous oxide, marketed as "Whip Pink," among young people, warning of fatal neurological effects. BNN chief Suyudi Ario Seto revealed that entertainment venues are openly selling the substance in packages without clear regulation, and called on government stakeholders to urgently draft strict rules to curb its uncontrolled distribution.

Military chiefs told to stay distant from parties

Military chiefs told to stay distant from parties JAKARTA (JP): A three-day meeting of regional military commanders ended here on Friday with a commitment to maintain a distance from all political groupings -- a break from New Order tradition where military chiefs very often made policies that favored Golkar. Army Chief of Staff Gen.

Deputy Chief of Police Urges Brimob to Enhance Capabilities, Citing Hybrid Security Threats

Indonesia's Deputy Chief of Police, Komjen Dedi Prasetyo, has called on the Mobile Brigade Corps (Brimob) to bolster their capabilities amid rising hybrid security threats that blend physical disruptions, digital provocations, and disinformation. Speaking at the 2026 Brimob Work Meeting, he praised their 2025 achievements, including successful operations and international accolades, while emphasising the need for adaptive strategies, technological integration like AI and body-worn cameras, and a service-oriented approach to public safety. This directive underscores the evolving challenges in national security and the importance of professional, research-driven policing to maintain stability.

Indonesia Calls for Accelerated Action on ASEAN's Nuclear Weapons-Free Zone Protocol

Indonesia's Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi expressed frustration over the lack of progress in securing nuclear-weapon states' commitment to the Southeast Asia Nuclear Weapon-Free Zone (SEANWFZ) protocol, with China, France, Russia, the UK and the US still unsigned despite the treaty's 1995 establishment. Indonesia has proposed that ASEAN engage legal experts and establish clear, measurable timelines to accelerate negotiations with nuclear-possessing nations.

Sentencing Hearing for Delpedro and Others in Incitement Case to be Held Tomorrow

The sentencing hearing for Delpedro Marhaen, Executive Director of Lokataru, and three other defendants in a case related to incitement during protests that turned violent in August will take place tomorrow. The defendants are accused of uploading provocative content on social media to incite hatred and hostility towards specific groups, allegedly contributing to the unrest.

Our traditional arts

Our traditional arts Traditional arts face the challenge of globalization. That topic -- one of several discussed at a seminar organized to coincide with the seventh wayang festival in Jakarta -- is a subject worth pondering. This is particularly true at a time when modern cinema, discotheques and other expressions of Western pop culture are thriving in Indonesia that is striving hard to be able to call itself modern.

Tonetto's article biased

Tonetto's article biased Writing a letter to the editor of The Jakarta Post is generally a pointless exercise. No one pays much attention to notes from those familiar few, relentless correspondents who clog up your pages day after day with their boring diatribes. But on rare occasions, certain objectionable opinions cannot pass unchallenged. Once before, I have written to the Post, that time responding to the deranged, racist tirades of Masli Arman.

Current Condition of Andrie Yunus

Andrie Yunus, Vice Coordinator of Kontras, remains hospitalised in intensive care following surgery for eye injuries sustained in an acid attack on 12 March 2026. The head of Komnas for the Disappeared and Victims of Violence states his condition is stable, though doctors anticipate extended treatment similar to that required by a previous acid attack victim. Coordinating Minister Yusril Ihza Mahendra has called for a comprehensive investigation into what he describes as an organised attack, urging authorities to identify the intellectual authors behind the assault rather than focusing solely on the perpetrators.

Currency swings belie fundamentals: APEC

Currency swings belie fundamentals: APEC SANUR, Bali (JP): Finance ministers of the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum expressed concern yesterday over the recent currency swings which, they said, do not reflect economic fundamentals. "We agreed that there should be a determined effort to attain stability in the foreign exchange market as such stability would benefit all member economies," the ministers said in a joint statement after holding four working sessions.

Commission III: Guidelines on connectivity rules to handle Andrie Yunus case

Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission III has urged law enforcement agencies, including the police and military, to apply the connectivity provisions under Article 170 of the new Criminal Procedure Code (KUHAP) in investigating the acid attack on human rights activist Andrie Yunus. The attack occurred after Yunus recorded a podcast on militarism and the TNI Law's material examination, with police identifying two suspects and the TNI detaining four personnel from its intelligence unit for further probing. This guidance aims to ensure fair adjudication between civilian and military courts, highlighting the need for synergy in cases involving both domains to deliver justice.

Goh calls for more racial integration

Goh calls for more racial integration SINGAPORE (AP): Singaporeans need to find more time to gather and socialize with members of different races, the prime minister of the multiracial city-state said. Goh Chok Tong's comments came late Sunday at an event organized by an ethnic Indian organization at which he urged people from different racial groups to reach out to each other and organize joint events and training programs.

Liberating knowledge from the false dichotomy between religious and secular science

A prominent educator at UIN Sunan Ampel Surabaya discusses the institutional transformation of Indonesian Islamic higher education institutions (PTKIN) from IAIN to UIN status, emphasising the need to eliminate the artificial dichotomy between religious and secular knowledge.

Next election depends on MPR

Next election depends on MPR Kurniawan Hari and A'an Suryana, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Legislators gave the go-ahead on Wednesday for an amendment to the constitution, which is currently being implemented by the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR), despite recent attempts to block its process.

Myanmar ructions to prompt rare statement from ASEAN

Myanmar ructions to prompt rare statement from ASEAN Agencies, Phnom Penh ASEAN ministers will issue an unprecedented statement of concern over the May 30 political ructions in Myanmar that led to the detention of opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi, a spokesman for the 10-member bloc said on Sunday. In a move widely seen as a departure from the group's normal policy of non-interference in members' domestic affairs, Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) secretariat spokesman M.C.

Exclusion of E. Timor from agenda sought

Exclusion of E. Timor from agenda sought JAKARTA (JP): Indonesia sought French support yesterday to exclude East Timor from the agenda of the Asia-European summit in Bangkok next month, warning that the inclusion of such a controversial issue could jeopardize the outcome of the meeting.

Troop withdrawal from Timor concluded: ABRI

Troop withdrawal from Timor concluded: ABRI JAKARTA (JP): The Armed Forces has claimed to have withdrawn all its combat troops stationed in the troubled province of East Timor with 600 soldiers pulled out yesterday in the third and final wave of a pullout totaling 1,300 soldiers. Speaking to reporters after a simple farewell ceremony for the 600 soldiers at Dili port, East Timor Military Chief Col.

KPU government representatives thrown out of meeting

KPU government representatives thrown out of meeting JAKARTA (JP): Political party representatives on the General Elections Commission (KPU) removed two government representatives from the commission's plenary session on Wednesday.

All About AI

This opinion piece critiques the overreliance on AI-generated content in social media and journalism, highlighting how it lacks the depth and soul of human thought, potentially dulling human reasoning. It argues that AI should serve as a tool, not a replacement, for human cognition, drawing examples from tech leaders like Sam Altman and Elon Musk, and notes its integration in media practices such as the New York Times' AI Agent and Indonesia's Press Council guidelines. The article underscores the importance of distinguishing AI from human work and maintaining ethical standards in AI use within journalism.

Gender Equality and Empowering Women as Telkom's Sustainability Targets

PT Telkom Indonesia has integrated gender equality into its sustainability strategy under the Empower Our People pillar and as a key aspect of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), aiming to foster a resilient and competitive organisation. In 2025, women comprised 31.7% of the workforce, with 21% in managerial roles, and the company targets increases to 32% overall and 27% in management by 2030, supported by initiatives like daycare facilities and leadership opportunities in strategic sectors. This commitment, exemplified by female CEO Dian Siswarini, enhances innovation and long-term business transformation while addressing work-life balance for female employees.

The question of eroticism, pornography and art

The question of eroticism, pornography and art By Chandra Johan JAKARTA (JP): Eroticism, pornography and sexuality is the latest hot topic amid various issues and unsolved problems. It has become controversial in the midst of the penetration of mass culture in the current globalization era, in which the limits of eroticism, pornography and art become vague and confusing.

Boosting Green Energy: HVDC Technology Key to Electricity Interconnection

Indonesia's government and PT PLN aim to add 69.5 GW of power capacity by 2034, with 76% from renewables like solar, hydro, wind, and geothermal, supported by President Prabowo Subianto's push for 100 GW of solar capacity. High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) technology is pivotal for connecting remote renewable sources to demand centres, with plans for two major HVDC transmission projects and 48,000 km of transmission lines requiring cross-sector collaboration. This infrastructure will enhance national grid reliability, bridge supply imbalances—such as the Sumatra-Java interconnection—and drive investments exceeding $500 billion, backed by Rp 402.4 trillion in fiscal support for energy resilience in 2026.

Indonesia at danger from global climate changes

Indonesia at danger from global climate changes JAKARTA (JP): Experts warned on Wednesday of the global climate changes that have caused irregular climatic patterns and rising sea levels. "The topic is very relevant and we must be wary of these changes as signs of freak weather have been evident here," head of the Meteorology and Geophysics Agency (BMG) Sri Diharto said on the sidelines of the Asia Pacific Regional Consultation on Climate Change held at the Gran Melia Hotel.

Male menopause not all gloom and doom

Male menopause not all gloom and doom By Clare E. Urwin SURABAYA, East Java (JP): Thanks to modern science and medicine, men can look forward to a satisfying and vibrant life in their later years. This was the main message of a two-day symposium, Management of Erectile Dysfunction and The Aging Male, at The World Trade Center here last weekend. There were six guest speakers, covering various aspects of the male aging process, and generally there was an optimistic theme throughout the day.

Seminar on Sukarno's speech gains support

Seminar on Sukarno's speech gains support JAKARTA (JP): The seminar on the last public speech given by the late president Sukarno in 1966 should go ahead to reveal the truth surrounding his impeachment, a student leader in the 1960s said yesterday. Siswono Yudohusodo, who is now Minister of Transmigration, said the seminar should be held while witnesses were still alive, Antara reported.

Analyst says Indonesian outlook bleak

Analyst says Indonesian outlook bleak HONG KONG (Reuters): Indonesia faces a troubled future of social and political uncertainty and part of the blame belongs to the International Monetary Fund, an expert on the country said yesterday. Eugene Galbraith, group head of research for ABN Amro and an Indonesia resident for 16 years, said risks to stability were likely to come from the country's periphery, rather than from Jakarta, which was more firmly under the control of internal security forces.

BI chief selection may face obstacles

BI chief selection may face obstacles The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The House of Representatives could face future legal obstacles in the ongoing process to select a new governor of Bank Indonesia, which has taken much longer than allowed under the law, experts said. According to Law No. 23 on Bank Indonesia, legislators have three weeks at the most from the time they receive a list of candidates for central bank governor from the president to either accept or reject the nominees.

The Strategic Role of CFOs in Navigating Economic Pressure and Digital Transformation

Chief Financial Officers are assuming increasingly strategic roles beyond traditional finance management, serving as key decision-makers and digital transformation leaders as companies face economic headwinds and sustainability demands. The Indonesia Best CFO Awards 2026, organised by Warta Ekonomi Group, highlights CFOs' critical contributions to corporate resilience and long-term growth, whilst research reveals that only 11.

Komnas HAM Identifies Dozens of Other Perpetrators in Andrie Yunus Case

The National Human Rights Commission (Komnas HAM) has identified more than a dozen additional perpetrators beyond the four already named suspects in the acid attack on KontraS activist Andrie Yunus. Komnas HAM is gathering evidence to push for a civilian court trial rather than a military one, amid concerns over potential impunity, and has requested access to the suspects from the Indonesian Military Police Centre (Puspom TNI). The case, involving alleged intelligence operatives, highlights tensions between civilian oversight and military jurisdiction in human rights violations.

Contest builds links with Korea

Contest builds links with Korea Abdul Khalik, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Restu Amalia, 22, a student of law at the Pakuan University in Bogor in West Java was surprised when informed that she had won a writing contest organized by the National Education Ministry and the South Korea Embassy in Jakarta. "I heard about the writing contest from my sister and I submitted my article on the closing day of the contest.

RI should not rush into taking stance on UN reforms

RI should not rush into taking stance on UN reforms Primastuti Handayani The Jakarta Post/Beijing Indonesia should not rush into taking its stance in the increasingly heated debate on the United Nations (UN) reforms, as voting would only be taking place later next month, Minister of Foreign Affairs Hassan Wirayuda said here on Thursday.

Business leaders identify poverty as top issue

Business leaders identify poverty as top issue Harry Bhaskara, The Jakarta Post, Davos One might expect pomp and snobbery in this capitalistic showpiece where a participant pays US$12,000 apart from an annual membership fee of $25,600 but they were the least visible. If anything, it was star-stricken panic that was visible among the organizers when celebrities like Angelina Jolie, Sharon Stone, Richard Gere and Lionel Richie made their way around the conference venue.

Worldly wisdom

Worldly wisdom Modern life is beset with tremendous problems, with stress being an inescapable part of it. How do we face the challenges of life? Dada J.P. Vaswani, Indian philosopher-mentor-humanitarian, delivered a lecture recently in Jakarta on this topic. I had the good fortune to listen to his eloquent and thought-provoking discourse, and it was really an inspiring and rewarding experience.

Young Indonesians Drive Mental Health Awareness Movement

Young Indonesians are leading a cultural shift in prioritizing mental health and destigmatizing emotional well-being discussions, driven by millennials and Gen Z seeking therapy, support networks, and workplace mental health provisions. Despite growing awareness, significant barriers persist including limited access to services in rural areas, socioeconomic disparities, and ongoing stigma.

Purbaya 'Blacklists' and Demands LPDP Scholarship Recipient Return Funds

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has ordered LPDP scholarship recipient AP to repay billions of rupiah in education funds plus interest after AP's wife posted social media content deemed insulting to Indonesian citizenship. Purbaya also announced AP would be blacklisted from all government employment, marking a significant enforcement action over the use of taxpayer-funded scholarships.

PKB confirms dissolution of its factions

PKB confirms dissolution of its factions JAKARTA (JP): The National Awakening Party (PKB) confirmed on Tuesday the dissolution of its factions in the House of Representatives and the People's Consultative Assembly, though there was some dissension on this point. In a statement read out at the end of its executive meeting late on Tuesday, the party fell short of declaring its recognition of Abdurrahman Wahid as president.

Debate contest dominated by long-time rivals

Debate contest dominated by long-time rivals The Jakarta Post, Jakarta After more than 218 hours of debate involving 58 teams from 37 universities over five days, the Eighth Indonesian Varsity English Debate came down to a standoff between two long-time rivals: the University of Indonesia (UI), champions for six consecutive years, and the State Institute of Accounting (STAN), that broke UI's winning streak last year.

Following the US and Europe, the 'MBG Polri' Book is Expected to Become a Diplomatic Instrument in Saudi Arabia

The 'Rasa Bhayangkara Nusantara' book, produced by the SPPG Polri and featuring recipes from the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) program, has been distributed to the Middle East as part of President Prabowo Subianto's cultural diplomacy initiative. Following distributions in Europe and America, the book was presented to the Indonesian Consul General in Jeddah, aiming to showcase Indonesian culture, social awareness, and human resource development on the global stage.

Finding true freedom by being a free spirit in all we do

Finding true freedom by being a free spirit in all we do "Are we going to discuss the Bali bombings over Christmas lunch?" exclaimed 12-year-old Jacqueline. Her voice, with the sharpness of a blade, interrupted the adults talking about the horrors of the Bali bombings around the table in a home in a suburb of Sydney. A sudden silence fell over, before conversation slowly resumed on more mundane topics of food and Christmas pudding.

OPEC to cut output to avoid price collapse

OPEC to cut output to avoid price collapse Agence France-Presse, Doha OPEC can be expected to agree to slash production at a ministerial meeting in Qatar on June 11 to avoid a price collapse, OPEC President Abdullah bin Hamad al-Attiyah told AFP on Monday, strongly defending Iraq's position within the oil cartel.

Prabowo Holds Marathon Meetings in Hambalang, Discusses Geopolitics and Eid al-Fitr Preparations

President Prabowo Subianto chaired five late‑day strategic meetings with ministers at his Hambalang residence, reviewing STEM campus expansion, medical education, and Indonesia's position amid global geopolitical shifts, particularly in the Middle East. The discussions also covered support for Palestinian students at the Defense University and preparations for Eid al-Fitr, with security and smooth travel as a priority.

Little things matter most at Ramadhan

Little things matter most at Ramadhan Breaking the fast, like all things connected to Ramadhan, becomes a major topic for discussion for Muslims during the fasting month, as well as a grand business opportunity for restaurants and hotels. Last week a bookstore in Jakarta organized a buka puasa (breaking of the fast) event in conjunction with a book discussion, kind of a clever ploy to sell the newly released book during a month when it's better to do some reading and less talking.

Hassan urges caution in UN reform debate

Hassan urges caution in UN reform debate Primastuti Handayani, The Jakarta Post, Beijing Indonesia should not rush into taking its stance in the increasingly heated debate on the United Nations (UN) reforms, as voting would only be taking place later next month, Minister of Foreign Affairs Hassan Wirayuda said here on Thursday.

Islam's revival: A threat or a challenge?

Islam's revival: A threat or a challenge? JAKARTA (JP): The revival of Islam is not a threat to the modern, established, and secular Western countries, an Islamic expert says. "Western countries cannot merely generalize and say that the revival of Islam is a threat to their national interests and stability," said Prof. Dr. John L. Esposito, Director of the U.S.-based Center for Moslem-Christian Understanding.

Pacific business networking

Pacific business networking We did not expect much from the inaugural meeting of the Asia- Pacific Business Network (APB Net) which ended in Jakarta yesterday with six points of policy suggestions for the Asia- Pacific Economic Cooperation forum. After all, it was the first of such forums organized by businessmen from among the APEC members. In fact, the idea of the APB Net was conceived only last March during the meeting of the APEC Working Group on Trade Promotion in Bali.

Prabowo: Downstream Processing Remains Indonesia's Top Priority Despite US Tariff Agreement

President Prabowo Subianto has affirmed that Indonesia's downstream processing policy will continue as the government's primary focus, even following the signing of a reciprocal tariff agreement with the United States. He emphasised openness to investment in critical minerals but insisted on fair economic value at market prices, highlighting the contributions from foreign mining operations like Freeport while advocating for local processing of raw materials. The agreement eliminates tariffs on 1,819 Indonesian products and facilitates up to $9 billion in US investments in smelters, EV battery factories, and other industrial facilities, boosting bilateral trade ties.

Prabowo Holds Five Meetings Discussing Middle East Conflict to Mudik Preparations

President Prabowo Subianto convened five separate cabinet meetings at his Hambalang residence in Bogor on 8 March 2026, addressing higher education development, Middle Eastern geopolitical tensions, and readiness for the Idul Fitri exodus. Key agenda items included progress on ten new STEM-focused universities, support for Palestinian students studying in Indonesia, and government preparedness measures for the anticipated holiday travel period. The president emphasised the importance of cross-ministerial coordination to advance national priorities in education, technology, geopolitics, and public services.

Following Japan's Success, Bulog Plans to Transform Degraded Rice into Flour

Perum Bulog, Indonesia's state logistics agency, is set to develop rice downstream processing by converting degraded rice into rice flour, inspired by Japan's high utilisation of rice flour in snacks. This initiative aims to reduce the country's reliance on wheat flour imports, with an estimated 65,000 tonnes of degraded rice available in 2025, representing just 0.15% of national production. By processing substandard rice through methods like 'rice to rice' restoration or direct conversion, Bulog seeks to add value to surplus rice and support domestic food industries.

Aceh-bound reporters get marching orders at boot camp

Aceh-bound reporters get marching orders at boot camp A'an Suryana, The Jakarta Post, Karawang, West Java The only danger that most reporters have to face in their daily routine is getting caught in the crossfire of office politics. But a real fear of staring down the barrel of a gun prompted some reporters to sign up for some military training.

Government Plans Integrated Livestock Ecosystem with Brazilian Investor to Support Free Nutritious Meals Programme

Jakarta — The government plans to develop an integrated livestock ecosystem, a move expected to support domestic beef and dairy supply, including for the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme.

Opposition groups to hold large protest, Arroyo to break silence

Opposition groups to hold large protest, Arroyo to break silence Leftist activists, church-backed groups and opposition leaders said on Monday they would clog the Philippine capital with thousands of protesters later this week to raise pressure on President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo to break her silence on poll fraud allegations.

PT Newmont operates Minahasa gold mine as usual

PT Newmont operates Minahasa gold mine as usual JAKARTA (JP): Activity at PT Newmont Minahasa Raya's gold mine in Minahasa, North Sulawesi, continued as usual on Monday as the deadline set by the local court to close down the mine passed without incident.

Bringing Alcohol, Cigarettes, and Vapes Back to Indonesia: This Amount Will Definitely Be Confiscated

Indonesia's Directorate General of Customs and Excise has warned travellers that exceeding the limits on importing controlled goods such as alcohol, tobacco products, and electronic cigarettes will result in immediate confiscation and destruction. The regulations, outlined in Finance Minister Regulations PMK 203/2017 as amended by PMK 34/2025, allow adults to bring up to 1 litre of ethyl alcohol-containing beverages, 200 cigarettes, or equivalent tobacco, with stricter limits for crew members, aiming to control consumption and circulation while ensuring personal use boundaries. Officials urge the public to familiarise themselves with these rules to avoid issues upon re-entry, emphasising legal certainty and public protection.

How Serious is Nasdem's Merger with Gerindra?

Deputy General Chairman of Nasdem Party, Saan Mustopa, has dismissed rumours of a merger with Gerindra Party as mere discourse, emphasising that no serious internal discussions have taken place and highlighting the importance of ideology, identity, and party existence as barriers to such a move. He referenced the 1973 political party fusion in Indonesia but noted the vastly different democratic context today, while affirming Nasdem's focus on internal consolidation and full commitment to supporting President Prabowo Subianto's government. Saan also downplayed the insignificant number of cadres defecting to the Indonesian Solidarity Party as a normal political dynamic.

Indonesia says $22-$25 oil price range reasonable

Indonesia says $22-$25 oil price range reasonable Jerry Norton, Reuters, Jakarta Indonesia's Mines and Energy Minister said on Friday that OPEC's US$22-$25 oil price range target for 2002 was reasonable even though current price strength did not necessarily reflect supply and demand fundamentals. Purnomo Yusgiantoro also said Indonesia still hoped it would average $22 per barrel for its crude oil in 2002 despite an average of $19 in the first two months of the year.

Police and LPSK Urged to Protect Family and Colleagues of Andrie Yunus Following Acid Attack

Commission III of the Indonesian Parliament has called on the National Police (Polri) and the Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) to provide special protection to Andrie Yunus, a human rights activist with Kontras, and his family and colleagues following a serious acid attack that caused burns covering approximately 24 per cent of his body. The attack, which occurred after a podcast recording session, is believed to be an attempt to silence critical voices and human rights defenders, with the government committing to a thorough and transparent investigation.

Bahlil Urges Public Not to Hoard Fuel

Indonesia's Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources, Bahlil Lahadalia, has appealed to the public to use energy wisely and refrain from hoarding fuel, particularly highlighting instances of trucks queuing at petrol stations for resale amid a global energy crisis triggered by the US-Israel war against Iran. He emphasised that government efforts to secure oil supplies cannot succeed without public cooperation, while assuring that stocks of Pertalite and Solar fuels remain stable and prices unchanged despite escalating geopolitical tensions. This comes as Indonesia bolsters alternative energy development and maintains sufficient national reserves to mitigate international disruptions.

Asian urged to boost labor standards

Asian urged to boost labor standards Novan Iman Santosa, The Jakarta Post, Bangkok The United Nations has called on governments across Asia to improve their migrant labor policies, particularly as regards the living standards of foreign migrants, in a bid to mitigate the social upheavals that could be caused by their improper treatment.

Witness Reveals All Online Meetings with Nadiem Were Banned from Being Recorded

A witness in the Chromebook corruption trial of former Education Minister Nadiem Makarim testified that all of Nadiem's online meetings were strictly prohibited from being recorded. The secretary at the Ministry of Education and Culture disclosed that the ban applied universally to all virtual meetings chaired by the minister, including those with Google representatives, raising questions about transparency in the Rp 2.1 trillion procurement scandal.

Aceh, a Hope That Never Fades (3 -- End)

In the aftermath of devastating floods in Aceh, ANTARA's Bangkit Sumatera team documents the ongoing recovery efforts during Eid al-Fitr celebrations in March 2026, highlighting resilience at a viral hospital and a remote village overwhelmed by debris. In Desa Sekumur, locals like 65-year-old Mukhtar Sulaiman transform flood-brought logs into a communal sampan as an act of charity, symbolising community solidarity and hope amid adversity. This narrative underscores Aceh's unyielding spirit and the importance of grassroots initiatives in disaster recovery.

By Tarko Sudiarno

By Tarko Sudiarno YOGYAKARTA (JP): Speculation about who will rule the Yogyakarta Palace after the reign of Sultan Hamengkubuwono X, is now hot a topic among local residents of Yogyakarta, as the sovereign has no son, only daughters. People are wondering whether his eldest daughter Gusti Raden Ajeng (GRAj) Nurmalitasari, or Gusti Sari as she is commonly known, will replace her father. "It depends on Ngarsa Dalem (the Sultan) and the people.

US Government Seriously Investigates UFOs, But Why Are Universities Still Silent?

The US government has dramatically shifted its stance on UFOs, now termed Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena (UAP), with President Donald Trump ordering the Pentagon and federal agencies in February 2026 to declassify related archives amid pressure from Congress and whistleblowers. Despite official investigations handling over 2,000 reports since 1945 and similar programmes in countries like Japan and France, academic institutions remain largely uninvolved, lacking dedicated doctoral programmes or methodologies for UAP research. Efforts by academics like Purdue University's Darrell Evans highlight the challenges of bridging this gap, while a 2023 survey reveals widespread faculty interest in UAP studies across disciplines, underscoring a disconnect between governmental recognition and scientific engagement.

Gates Seeks Closer Ties With Indonesia

JAKARTA, Indonesia (Map, News) - The United States is working to broaden its ties with Indonesia as the island nation emerges as a leader in the Asia-Pacific region, U.S. officials said Monday as Defense Secretary Robert Gates arrived here.

All eyes on number two

All eyes on number two It is almost a repeat of what happened five years ago. Now, a year before the March 1998 presidential election, the raging public debate is not on who will be the presidential nominates, but on who will be the candidates for the vice presidency. It is apparent that most people are resigned to the fact that almost certainly President Soeharto will be reelected for a sixth term of office next year.

Flashback to the Acid Attack on Novel Baswedan Nine Years Ago

Former Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) investigator Novel Baswedan recounted the details of the acid attack he suffered on 11 April 2017, shortly after performing dawn prayers near his home, highlighting the premeditated nature of the assault involving prior surveillance and threats linked to his anti-corruption work. The incident, which resulted in severe eye injuries requiring treatment in Indonesia and Singapore, underscores ongoing concerns about attacks on anti-corruption activists, as seen in the recent case involving Andrie Yunus. Despite convictions of two assailants with light sentences, the intellectual masterminds behind the attack remain unidentified, prompting calls for independent investigations to ensure transparency and justice in such cases.

Amsal Sitepu Bows to DPR Members: Thank You, Sir, I Am Now Free

Videographer Amsal Christy Sitepu expressed gratitude to the leadership and members of the Indonesian House of Representatives' Commission III after being acquitted in a corruption case involving inflated costs for village profile videos in Karo Regency. The court ruled that Sitepu was not guilty on all charges, restoring his rights and dignity, despite allegations of overpricing that led to an estimated state loss of Rp 202 million. The case highlights challenges in pricing creative industry services like videography, which lack standardized rates, and underscores the role of parliamentary oversight in such legal matters.

Indonesian Idol Contestant Arrested Over Alleged Rape of Minor

Police in Belu Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, have arrested PK (Piche Kota), a contestant from Indonesian Idol, on suspicion of raping a 16-year-old child. PK was arrested at his residence on 28 February but remains hospitalised for medical observation before formal detention, whilst two other suspects have already been detained. The alleged incident occurred in January 2026 at a hotel in Atambua, with authorities emphasising the principle of equality before the law in their investigation.

Tug-of-War in US-Iran Peace Talks, Escalation Threats at the End of Ceasefire

As the two-week ceasefire between the US, Israel, and Iran nears its end, Tehran has threatened escalation and rejected negotiations under the shadow of threats, while the US maintains a naval blockade until a deal is signed. Diplomatic efforts continue with a US delegation heading to Pakistan for mediated talks and EU foreign ministers discussing de-escalation measures in Luxembourg. The core dispute revolves around Iran's enriched uranium stockpile, with conflicting statements on its potential transfer, amid accusations of nuclear weapon ambitions that Iran denies.

Govt urged to join IMF postprogram monitoring

Govt urged to join IMF postprogram monitoring Fitri Wulandari, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Given the current state of the economy, the government should accept the International Monetary Fund (IMF)'s post-program monitoring arrangement once the current program expires later this year, a number of economists said.

Family of Medan SARS patient still in quarantine

Family of Medan SARS patient still in quarantine Apriadi Gunawan and Evi Mariani, The Jakarta Post, Medan/Jakarta Eight family members of a probable SARS case in Medan, North Sumatra, have all been either confined to hospital or placed in quarantine in their homes to prevent the killer disease from spreading.

'Forbes' latest list of richest tycoons sparks debate

'Forbes' latest list of richest tycoons sparks debate JAKARTA (JP): The Forbes Zibenjia business magazine's latest list of the richest businessmen in East Asia has stirred debate among several financial analysts as to who is really the richest tycoon in Indonesia. The list of the ten top richest Chinese businessmen which was quoted by several newspapers here from Reuters early this week included three Indonesian businessmen-- Soedono Salim, Prajogo Pangestu and Eka Tjipta Widjaja.

Teacher Shocked After Being Recorded as Buying Rp 4.2 Billion Ferrari Following Mysterious Phone Call

A part-time teacher from West Java, Rizal Nurdimansyah, was stunned to discover his identity had been used to purchase a Ferrari worth Rp 4.2 billion without his knowledge, prompting him to report the incident to the police and block the transaction at Samsat to avoid tax liabilities. The fraud began with a suspicious call on 2 April requesting his personal data, which he refused despite offers of payment, but his details later appeared in official purchase documents. Authorities in Kuningan have initiated an investigation into the identity theft, highlighting vulnerabilities in personal data security and vehicle registration processes in Indonesia.

ASEAN stresses willingness to dabate human rights with EU

ASEAN stresses willingness to dabate human rights with EU JAKARTA (JP): Indonesian officials have stressed the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is ready to air human rights issues with the European Union as long as any discussion is conducted in a constructive manner and not aimed at cornering individual countries.

Deputy Provincial Police Chief: Five Principles for Mining Governance in West Papua

Brigadier General Dr. Sulastiana, Deputy Chief of the West Papua Regional Police, outlined five risk-based principles for mining governance during a speech at the inaugural graduation of Caritas University in Manokwari, emphasising a new paradigm that prioritises dialogue, protection, and sustainability over hasty permits and production. These principles include recognising indigenous rights, implementing free prior informed consent (FPIC), joint oversight mechanisms, equitable benefit sharing, and environmental sustainability to address ongoing mining challenges in the region. The address highlights the crucial role of young graduates in bridging knowledge, ethics, and social service to mitigate environmental risks and ensure accountable resource management.

Myanmar leader in town to attend ASEAN summit

Myanmar leader in town to attend ASEAN summit JAKARTA (JP): The head of Myanmar's ruling State Law and Order Restoration Council (SLORC), Senior Gen. Than Shwe, arrived here yesterday afternoon to attend tomorrow's informal summit of ASEAN heads of government. Accompanied by an entourage of six which included SLORC's first secretary Lt. Gen. Khin Nyunt, the Myanmarese leader was met by Indonesian Minister of Transportation Haryanto Dhanutirto.

Open Session for ITB's 67th Dies Natalis: Strengthening Impactful Research and the Downstream Processing of Natural Materials

ITB marked its 67th Dies Natalis with an Open Session emphasising impactful research and the downstream processing of natural materials for national health autonomy. Speakers urged adaptive governance and stronger academia–government–industry collaboration to translate research into policy and industry needs, with ITB aiming to reach a World University Ranking of 150 by 2030. The event also featured a scientific oration on realising Indonesia's biodiversity-based health products through structured downstreaming and commercialisation.

MVP Olajuwon makes quiet entrance here

MVP Olajuwon makes quiet entrance here JAKARTA (JP): It's too bad that Hakeem Olajuwon wasn't here last week. His mere presence might have put some life into the Independence Cup basketball tournament. Who knows, with him on their side the national junior team might have walked away with the trophy. After all this is the NBA Most Valuable player we're talking about. The triumphant Houston Rockets giant, currently here to film a commercial, is the first NBA player to set foot in Indonesia.

UN prepares for abortion debate at Cairo meet

UN prepares for abortion debate at Cairo meet JAKARTA (JP): The topic of abortion is likely to be a contentious one at the international conference on population and development in Cairo next month, a UN representative said yesterday. Ali Ugur Tuncer, the resident director of the UN Population Fund, stressed however that the seminar will treat the question of abortion strictly as a health issue and not a family planning matter as many have suggested. "Abortion is not contraception.

Liquidation debate

Liquidation debate Bank Indonesia Governor J. Soedradjad Djiwandono should have felt uncomfortable at having to answer questions from reporters before Wednesday's cabinet meeting on the possible liquidation of troubled banks, even though the questions would have been expected after Finance Minister Mar'ie Muhammad touched on the same sensitive topic Tuesday.

Islamic law on zakat allocation for mosque construction: permissible or not?

The article examines the Islamic jurisprudential basis for allocating zakat (alms) to mosque construction, citing Qur'anic guidance and scholarly interpretations. Whilst the majority of scholars from the four major Islamic schools prohibit using zakat for physical infrastructure, some contemporary scholars permit limited use under the fi sabilillah (in the path of Allah) category if the needs of the poor are adequately met. The article recommends prioritising zakat distribution to the needy whilst funding mosque development through voluntary contributions and community effort.

Deputy Chairman of Commission I of the DPR Requests Transparent Investigation into Andrie Yunus Case

Deputy Chairman of Commission I of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Sukamta, has called for a transparent, professional, and accountable investigation into the acid attack on KontraS activist Andrie Yunus, emphasising the need to uncover all perpetrators, including intellectual actors. He expressed deep concern over the violence against civil society activists, viewing it as a serious violation of human rights and a threat to democracy, while urging internal evaluations within the military following the detention of four TNI personnel suspected of involvement. The case highlights the state's obligation to protect human rights defenders and ensure justice, with police also identifying two additional suspects.

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Highlights 'Observer Inflation', Using Data Not Aligned with Facts

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya has criticised the growing phenomenon of 'observer inflation', where unqualified individuals offer opinions on public platforms using inaccurate or misleading data. He noted that such commentary, which has persisted since before President Prabowo Subianto's tenure, aims to shape public opinion but fails to undermine the high trust levels in the government, with over 96 million citizens expressing confidence in the leadership. Teddy urged constructive criticism that fosters optimism and stability, emphasising the government's openness to feedback while committing to improvements without causing public anxiety.

Asia Africa Forum needs tripartite funding

Asia Africa Forum needs tripartite funding By Meidyatama Suryodiningrat BANDUNG (JP): The executive assistant of the Non-Aligned Movement Nana Sutresna yesterday underlined the importance of a tripartite financing mechanism involving the developed nations in implementing South-South cooperation programs.

Rising China and the implications for SE Asia

China started to focus on economic and military modernization programs in the late 1970s. This modernization has elevated China's profile at both the regional and global levels. The rise of China can be seen since the launch of the Fourth Modernization program in 1978, and specifically in the late 1980s and 1990s. The rise of China has also become one of the major issues in the new dynamics of contemporary international relations.

Minority participation and democratization

Minority participation and democratization Christine Susanna Tjhin, Jakarta Since the legislative election in April, more Chinese- Indonesians have undoubtedly been engaged in the country's democratization, and this degree of enthusiasm is a new precedent for their future participation. In the past, the only "participation" expected concerned economic activities.

Rigid curriculum complicates RI's English teaching

Rigid curriculum complicates RI's English teaching By Iwan Jazadi This is the first of two articles identifying key problems of Indonesia's English teaching system at the classroom-curriculum level. ADELAIDE (JP): Every year the number of Indonesian English Language Teaching (ELT) specialists and professionals increases.

Budget discipline stressed

Budget discipline stressed One may read into Finance Minister Mar'ie Muhammad's reaffirmation last week of the government's imperative to maintain tight budget and fiscal discipline and come up with worrisome assumptions. The statement may also raise eyebrows coming on the heels of the recent debate over budgetary allocations for the procurement of 39 used warships from Germany.

2 RI generals possible suspects in Bali probe

2 RI generals possible suspects in Bali probe Tiarma Siboro and I Wayan Juniartha, The Jakarta Post, Denpasar, Bali The tedious investigation into the bomb attack on Bali has resulted in another bizarre twist following reports that linked the blast with two generals, one from the military and one from the police, who mysteriously visited the island on the day of the carnage and left the next day.

Foreign Ministry Efforts to Enable Two Pertamina Ships to Pass Through Strait of Hormuz Soon

The Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs is actively engaging in diplomatic efforts to allow two Pertamina-owned tankers, currently held at the Strait of Hormuz, to proceed with their journey. Spokesperson Vahd Nabyl stated that coordination with Iranian authorities, including the embassy in Tehran and Iranian diplomats in Jakarta, is underway to address technical issues such as insurance and crew readiness while ensuring compliance with international law and freedom of navigation under UNCLOS. This intervention underscores Indonesia's commitment to safeguarding national interests in vital maritime trade routes.

Clinton focuses on Asia to safeguard the U.S.

Clinton focuses on Asia to safeguard the U.S. WASHINGTON (Reuters): President Bill Clinton has thrown himself into the effort to contain Asia's financial crisis, which may threaten the crowning achievement of his presidency -- the robust U.S. economy. U.S. officials provided an unusually detailed description of Clinton's work on the crisis, saying he reads voraciously about it, constantly fires off queries and receives a steady diet of briefings from foreign policy and economic officials.

Singapore downplays Indonesia allegations

Singapore downplays Indonesia allegations By Raj Rajendran SINGAPORE (Reuters): Singapore likes to punch above its weight in world affairs, but for now the city state is avoiding a scuffle with its huge, restive neighbor, Indonesia. Stung by Indonesian accusations that it is a racist speck on the map -- extraordinary slurs by Southeast Asia's polite standards -- Singapore has turned the other cheek. Indonesian President B.J.

More concern about Japan's slow pace on APEC plan

More concern about Japan's slow pace on APEC plan JAKARTA (JP): Philippine Foreign Secretary Domingo Siazon further ignited concerns yesterday that Japan was sluggish in completing a free trade blueprint for the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum.

Prabowo Reveals the Origins of Indonesia's Invitation to Join Trump's Board of Peace

President Prabowo Subianto has disclosed the initial stages leading to Indonesia's involvement in the Board of Peace, an international initiative aimed at promoting peace in Palestine, stemming from diplomatic efforts following the 2023 Hamas attack and Israel's response. He highlighted Indonesia's humanitarian aid contributions and its participation in UN discussions and US-led meetings, where the "21 point plan" offered opportunities for a two-state solution, with Trump assuring persuasion of Israeli leadership. While Indonesia agreed to contribute peacekeeping forces under UN approval, it has suspended active involvement pending stability, maintaining a firm commitment to Palestinian civilians without engaging in military actions against Hamas.

Forestry woes reflect local tragedy

Forestry woes reflect local tragedy By Wimar Witoelar JAKARTA (JP): The World Bank has endorsed more debt for the government including forestry sector programs. This relates to an important seminar held recently in Jakarta by the government and sponsored by the World Bank. An aftermath of last year's Conference of the Consultative Group on Indonesia in Paris, the topic is the management of our forests, an urgent topic overshadowed by Indonesia's troubled transition.

NGOs urge government to cancel nuclear plan

NGOs urge government to cancel nuclear plan JAKARTA (JP): Several Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) urged the government yesterday to reconsider its plan to build a nuclear power plant and turn to alternative energy sources. In Jakarta for the 1996 No-Nukes Asia Forum here, several international anti-nuclear advocates met with legislator Ida Yusi Dahlan from the Golkar faction at the House of Representatives.

Prabowo's Trip to Pakistan Signals a Reset in Indonesia–Pakistan Ties

President Prabowo's official visit to Pakistan marks a deliberate shift from ceremonial partnership towards concrete cooperation in defence, trade, and disaster management. Both nations committed to accelerating the stalled Preferential Trade Agreement, with palm oil, textiles, agriculture, and liquefied natural gas identified as priority sectors for early commercial progress.

Singapore to use care in untying CLOB tangle

Singapore to use care in untying CLOB tangle SINGAPORE (Reuters): Singapore Deputy Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said on Thursday investors will be helped with their problems over funds locked in frozen Malaysian shares, but stopped short of saying the government would buy them.

The Jakarta Post

The Jakarta Post Nusa Dua, Bali Koizumi to raise Aceh, Mayanmar issues at summit meeting In a surprising diplomatic move, a delegation of senior Japanese officials told their counterparts from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) on Saturday that Japanese Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi will raise the Aceh problem, along with other issues such as the nuclear crisis in the Korean peninsula, and Myanmar, when the prime minister meets with ASEAN heads of government along with...

Ancient city ponders its future sultan

Ancient city ponders its future sultan Text and photo by Tarko Sudiarno YOGYAKARTA (JP): Speculation about who will rule the Yogyakarta Palace after the reign of Sultan Hamengkubuwono X, is now hot a topic among local residents of Yogyakarta, as the sovereign has no son, only daughters. People are wondering whether his eldest daughter Gusti Raden Ajeng (GRAj) Nurmalitasari, or Gusti Sari as she is commonly known, will replace her father. "It depends on Ngarsa Dalem (the Sultan) and the people.

Do we need foreign troops?

Do we need foreign troops? The presence of foreign troops in East Timor is now becoming a topic for discussion in Indonesia. Several answers have been given, some are for and some are against inviting United Nations' troops to take care of East Timor. I don't know why, and perhaps people will call me stupid or worse than that, but my answer is automatically a very big "no".

Koizumi to raise Aceh and Myanmar issues

Koizumi to raise Aceh and Myanmar issues The Jakarta Post, Nusa Dua, Bali In a surprising diplomatic move, a delegation of senior Japanese officials told their counterparts from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) on Saturday that Japanese Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi will raise the Aceh problem, along with other issues such as the nuclear crisis in the Korean peninsula, and Myanmar, when the prime minister meets with ASEAN heads of government along with Chinese Prime...

Have we lost our patriotic feeling?

Have we lost our patriotic feeling? Indonesia turns 56 on Friday, a coming of age that has been hampered by trouble. Is Independence Day still a reason for pride for our people, particularly the young? The Jakarta Post's reporters Ivy Susanti and Hera Diani, as well as Ainur R. Sophiaan, Israr Ardiansyah and Yuli Tri Suwarni find out. JAKARTA (JP): In his last speech as president, on Aug. 17, 1966, Sukarno warned the country's youth never to forget the past.

Indonesia's Diesel Power Plants Set to Be Phased Out: Here's Their Capacity

PT PLN is preparing to phase out 2,139 diesel power plant units across 741 locations in Indonesia, following directives from President Prabowo Subianto to enhance national energy sovereignty by shifting from imported oil-based fuels to cleaner renewable sources. The transition will leverage local potentials such as micro-hydro and solar power with battery storage systems, aiming to reduce electricity production costs and bolster energy independence. This move is expected to save 200,000 barrels of oil per day, representing 20% of the nation's oil imports, with plans for a 100 GW solar capacity expansion to potentially eliminate fuel imports within a few years.

'There is no need to feel inferior'

'There is no need to feel inferior' Fashion industry insiders are always quick to name Okky Asokawati as one of the country's first professional models. The daughter of a policeman not only had the looks to rise to the top of her profession, but also the brains to earn a degree in psychology from the University of Indonesia. Now 40, married to photographer Firman Ichsan and the mother of a daughter, she runs a modeling and entertainment agency called QQ.

Zhu's visit set to boost China's ties with RI

Zhu's visit set to boost China's ties with RI Agencies, Beijing Chinese Premier Zhu Rongji will bring pledges of financial assistance to Indonesia on a trip there next week due to focus on strengthening economic ties between the countries, an official said Wednesday. Zhu will visit Indonesia from Nov. 7 through Nov. 11, immediately after attending the summit of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in Brunei.

G-7 tells Indonesia to use restraint over social unrest

G-7 tells Indonesia to use restraint over social unrest LONDON (Dow Jones): The Group of Seven (G-7) industrialized nations on Saturday signaled their mounting concern over civil unrest in Indonesia, and the need for the government to stay on the course of economic reforms. "Indonesia is surely the country in Asia that we are most worried about," said German Economics Minister Guenter Rexrodt. U.S.

ASEAN to set up new short-term aid facility

ASEAN to set up new short-term aid facility By Devi M. Asmarani KUALA LUMPUR (JP): Finance ministers of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) agreed here yesterday to establish a new short-term facility for members in need of assistance. The group also agreed to establish and implement a regional economic surveillance mechanism soon to prevent a monetary crisis similar to the one currently affecting the region.

UAE Aims to Increase Investment in Indonesia

During a meeting between President Prabowo Subianto and President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE expressed its intention to increase investment in Indonesia. Both countries aim to strengthen economic ties, with Indonesia viewing investment from the Middle East as crucial for development and economic diversification. This commitment aligns with the upcoming 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Indonesia and the UAE in 2026.

Are party favors out of favor?

Are party favors out of favor? JAKARTA (JP): A seminar was held recently at one of our new five star hotels. The topic was simple, yet the attendance was overwhelming. Everybody wanted to hear what Professor Valentino, the well-known psychiatrist, had to say about keepsakes given out at weddings. He said "when I was a child, I loved going to wedding parties. Weddings were small then, but it did not matter to us children, because we really came for the party keepsakes rather than anything else.

MK Chief Jokes About Using Right to Recuse After Being Called Stunted by Jimly

At the launch of the book "Judicial Independence" celebrating former MK Chief Justice Jimly Asshiddiqie's 70th birthday, current MK Chief Justice Suhartoyo playfully responded to Jimly's remark likening him to being "stunted" next to the tall new judge Liliek Prisbawono Adi. Suhartoyo quipped about invoking his right to recuse himself from judicial reviews challenging the Free Nutritious Meals programme, emphasising its importance. The event highlighted the MK's ongoing role in reviewing key government policies amid light-hearted banter among justices.

Asia top transgressor for religious repression: U.S.

Asia top transgressor for religious repression: U.S. Agencies, Washington Asia is the epicenter of the world's most grievous religious repression, according to an annual U.S. report, which links one- party states with crackdowns and harassment of people of faith. Five of the six states singled out as worst offenders in the State Department's annual report in international religious freedom are located in the region -- and many other governments are listed as second-tier offenders.

ASEAN firms seek common stance on nontariff barriers

ASEAN firms seek common stance on nontariff barriers JAKARTA (JP): The ASEAN Federation of Textile Industries began its two-day meeting here yesterday to seek a joint stance in facing nontariff barriers imposed by the world's major textile importers.

Indonesia refuses to discuss E. Timor at ASEAN-EU meet

Indonesia refuses to discuss E. Timor at ASEAN-EU meet JAKARTA (JP): Indonesia yesterday warned the European Union it would not discuss what it considers "extraneous issues" such as East Timor in next week's meeting between ministers of the EU and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). "We are ready to confer on the issue anywhere as long as it's the correct forum," the foreign ministry's Director General for Political Affairs Izhar Ibrahim said.

Pokémon Winds and Waves: Release Schedule for the 10th Generation

Game Freak announced Pokémon Winds and Pokémon Waves, the tenth generation of Pokémon, during Pokémon Presents on 27 February 2026 to celebrate the franchise's 30th anniversary. The duo are planned for a global release in 2027 and will be exclusive to the Nintendo Switch 2, introducing three new starter Pokémon as fans discuss region inspirations and enhanced open-world design.

Rainbow of vegetables and fruit keep you fit

Rainbow of vegetables and fruit keep you fit Melissa Southern Garcia, Dietitian, Jakarta, southerndietitian@yahoo.com My latest article focused on the importance of eating fruits and vegetables, and although this may seem a fairly simple topic, it has prompted quite a few questions from readers.

Misuari faces challenge of drawing back refugees

Misuari faces challenge of drawing back refugees By Martin Abbugao COTABATO, Philippines (AFP): Luring back about half a million refugees who fled the civil war in the southern Philippines will be a top priority of the Moslem region's new governor, analysts say.

KPK Held Meeting to Discuss Public Reaction on Transfer of Yaqut's Detention Status

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) considered potential public reactions before deciding to transfer the detention status of Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, a suspect in the alleged hajj quota corruption case, from state detention to house arrest. This decision was made after an internal meeting that evaluated legal norms, public impact, and case handling strategies, following a request from Yaqut's family. The case, involving estimated state losses of Rp622 billion, highlights ongoing anti-corruption efforts amid procedural changes in the detention of high-profile figures.

In memory of modern fine art pioneer

In memory of modern fine art pioneer Matdon, Contributor, Bandung A solo exhibition titled In Memory of Redha Sorana Sunarko's Art Journey is on at Jakarta's National Gallery until April 13, 2002. It is held in observance of the artist's death on March 9, 2001. This exhibition is on because Redha was an icon who will never be forgotten in the art world. Redha was among the pioneers of Indonesia's modern visual art movement.

Alatas cautious on new Timor dialog prospects

Alatas cautious on new Timor dialog prospects JAKARTA (JP): The Indonesian government is reacting cautiously to the prospect of a second meeting between opposing East Timorese factions. Minister of Foreign Affairs Ali Alatas said yesterday such a proposal must be examined further and discussed with Portugal at the next round of formal talks. "We will have to look at the relevance and the need for such a meeting," he said.

RI stresses continuity to potential investors

RI stresses continuity to potential investors Dow Jones, Singapore As Indonesia prepares to sell a global bond next year, an A- list of the country's economic decision-makers stressed to potential investors Monday the country will continue to stabilize economically, even as it graduates from the International Monetary Fund's (IMF) loan program at the end of this year.

The oblique language

The oblique language While languages, like all other aspects of culture, grow and change over time, it is difficult to say that the Indonesian language, Bahasa Indonesia, is growing in the right direction -- that is, in the direction of becoming a modern language capable of conveying the complex concepts of science, commerce and technology. Bahasa Indonesia officially became the national language of Indonesia pending the birth of the independent Republic of Indonesia in 1945.

ASEAN anxious to push forward free trade plan

ASEAN anxious to push forward free trade plan BANGKOK (Reuter): The six-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) will meet this week to push forward a plan for a free trade area in the region before a Pacific rim trade zone comes into effect, officials in Thailand said yesterday.

Redefining the role of political parties

Redefining the role of political parties Street demonstrations have revived discussions on the roles and concepts of political parties. Political scientist Arbi Sanit explores this phenomena and its relevance to Indonesia. JAKARTA (JP); The differences between cadre political parties and popularly supported political parties have become a topic of public discussion in light of recent street demonstrations over the Indonesian Democratic Party (PDI) fiasco.

Following Prabowo's Directive, PLN to Halt Diesel Power Plants at 741 Sites and Replace with Solar

PT PLN (Persero) is set to phase out 2,139 diesel-powered generators at 741 locations across Indonesia, in line with President Prabowo Subianto's mandate to enhance national energy sovereignty by shifting from imported oil-based fuels to cleaner renewable sources. The transition will leverage local renewable potentials such as micro-hydro where available, or solar power plants equipped with battery storage systems (BESS) in other areas, aiming to stabilise electricity supply and reduce production costs. This initiative, part of a broader plan to build 100 GW of solar capacity within two years, could save Indonesia 200,000 barrels of oil per day—20% of current imports—potentially achieving fuel self-sufficiency in the coming years.

Fallout from Yaqut's House Arrest Ruling: KPK Leadership and Spokesperson Reported to Oversight Board

The Indonesian Anti-Corruption Society (MAKI) has filed complaints with the KPK Oversight Board against all KPK leaders, Deputy for Enforcement Asep Guntur Rahayu, and spokesperson Budi Prasetyo over the decision to grant house arrest to former Minister of Religious Affairs Yaqut Cholil Qoumas. MAKI suspects external interference influenced the KPK's lenient treatment, allowing Yaqut to celebrate Eid at home, and criticises the lack of proper health checks before the transfer, which later revealed his GERD and asthma conditions. The complaints highlight potential lapses in protocol and contradictory public statements, raising concerns about the KPK's integrity in handling high-profile corruption cases.

Government to ask Soebandrio about `Revolution Fund'

Government to ask Soebandrio about `Revolution Fund' JAKARTA (JP): The government plans to question Soebandrio, the former deputy prime minister who will be released from prison later this month, about the existence of a special fund President Sukarno established during his reign in the 1960s. Attorney General Singgih said, however, that the government will not heed to calls to link Soebandrio's release to his cooperation in uncovering the whereabouts of the "Revolution Fund".

Cak Nur 'last of great thinkers'

Cak Nur 'last of great thinkers' The Jakarta Post, Jakarta With noted Muslim scholar Nurcholish Madjid being hospitalized for months after undergoing a lever transplant last year in China, scholars and political analysts fear Indonesia might not see another intellectual of his stature emerge in the short term.

What does nuke power mean to Muria people?

What does nuke power mean to Muria people? By Y. Tri Subagya JAKARTA: The government's plan to build a dozen nuclear reactors on the Muria peninsula has become a warm topic among the community. Some are for it, some are against it. On one side, there are those who insist it be immediately constructed to fulfill the national energy needs. On the other side, many are still concerned about the dangers of nuclear power, especially in an earthquake-prone region.

Malaysia, RI to have small summit delegation

Malaysia, RI to have small summit delegation SINGAPORE (AP): As central bank governors, finance ministers and stock exchange chiefs meet for the World Economic Forum's East Asian summit this week, the two countries in the worst economic straits -- Indonesia and Malaysia -- will have only meager representation.

Delpedro and Three Associates Charged with Two-Year Prison Sentence in Incitement Case

The Central Jakarta District Court has prosecuted Delpedro Marhaen, Executive Director of Lokataru, and three associates with a two-year prison sentence for incitement related to demonstrations that turned violent in August 2025.

Sailfin Catfish from the Amazon Relocate to the Ciliwung River: Here's the History

The sailfin catfish, originally from the Amazon, has become an invasive species in Jakarta's Ciliwung River after being introduced via the ornamental fish trade, leading to a mass cull by DKI Jakarta authorities due to its exploding population. This non-native fish outcompetes local species, consumes their eggs, and thrives in polluted waters, posing risks to the environment, human health, and the economy. Experts emphasise the need for stricter regulations on releasing foreign species and improving river water quality to restore ecological balance.

Projected Readiness of Indonesia's New Capital City: Nusantara

Indonesia is constructing Nusantara, a new capital city in East Kalimantan designed as a smart, sustainable alternative to overcrowded and sinking Jakarta, with its initial administrative phase projected for completion by the end of 2024 and full development by 2035.

Presidential succession needs prudence

Presidential succession needs prudence By Aleksius Jemadu BANDUNG (JP): One of the most debated political issues since the early 1990s has been the topic of political succession. It is worth noting that Indonesia has never experienced a peaceful succession of its leader. Therefore, many people wonder how the succession of President and Vice President in 1998 will take place. Will it proceed smoothly or will it lead to a political fiasco?

In Nadiem's Trial, IT Expert States Chromebook Prices Range from Rp 3-4 Million

An IT expert from Universitas Bhayangkara Jakarta Raya testified in the corruption trial of former Education Minister Nadiem Makarim that Chromebook laptops typically cost between Rp 3 million and Rp 4 million, deeming the Rp 6 million procurement price excessive. The case involves alleged misuse of authority in procuring Chromebooks and Chrome Device Management from 2019-2022, benefiting Google and linked to personal gains via investments in a Gojek affiliate. This testimony highlights potential overpricing and favouritism in government tech procurement, raising concerns over state losses and educational ecosystem control.

Standardization of hospital equipment urged

Standardization of hospital equipment urged JAKARTA (JP): In an attempt to meet massive domestic demand for affordable and secure health machinery, the Indonesian Hospital Association (Persi) called on Monday for the standardization of the country's health equipment.

Intensive Education! Mirae Asset Targets Thousands of New Investors in 11 Cities, Ready to Boost Capital Market Literacy in 2026

PT Mirae Asset Sekuritas Indonesia is intensifying its efforts to enhance capital market literacy through educational programmes across 11 cities, reaching nearly 2,000 participants from January to March 2026. The initiatives, featuring investor gatherings, market discussions, and interactive classes on topics like portfolio management and trading platforms, aim to empower retail investors with the knowledge to make confident decisions amid market dynamics. This strategic push underscores the company's commitment to fostering sustainable growth in Indonesia's capital market by expanding financial literacy access nationwide.

Nike clarifies

Nike clarifies I am writing in response to an article published in The Jakarta Post on April 25. The article, Workers still in search of adequate attention, includes factual inaccuracies and fails to include a number of key points related to Nike's presence in Indonesia. Nike has a long and valued relationship with the people and country of Indonesia.

Kalacakra brings local production to Australia

Kalacakra brings local production to Australia Dewi Anggraeni, Contributor, Melbourne, Australia We only have to look around to realize that we have a wealth of creativity in Indonesia. Thus, in any city in the world where there are over 10,000 Indonesian students, there is bound to be an undercurrent of creative swell seeking manifestation.

New era with Indonesia won't be all joy: Howard

New era with Indonesia won't be all joy: Howard Neil Sands, Agence France-Presse/Sydney Australian Prime Minister John Howard sounded a note of caution as he and Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono were praised for ushering in a new era of Jakarta-Canberra relations on Tuesday, warning ongoing tensions were inevitable.

Reforestation funds will be included in state budget

Reforestation funds will be included in state budget JAKARTA (JP): Reforestation funds will be included in the state budget for the 1998/1999 fiscal year, which will be unveiled by President Soeharto tonight, a minister said yesterday. Minister of Forestry Djamaludin Suryohadikusumo said that next fiscal year, which will start April 1, reforestation funds would be part of state receipts from nontax sectors.

Despite Gap Year, Imam Demonstrates Study While Working at Universitas Terbuka Jakarta Can Achieve Excellence

Imam Pesuwaryantoro's journey exemplifies how time management, hard work, and prioritisation can lead to financial freedom whilst pursuing higher education through Universitas Terbuka Jakarta. Having balanced freelance consulting, voice-over work, and online driving with his studies from 2022–2026, Imam built a property business with 12 rental units, gained international recognition as Country Director of Global Network of Political Leaders, and won awards for youth innovation and environmental management.

Govt ready to cover maturing bonds: Boediono

Govt ready to cover maturing bonds: Boediono Dadan Wijaksana, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The government would use part of the proceeds from the sale of assets by the Indonesian Bank Restructuring Agency (IBRA) to cover bonds worth Rp 3.9 trillion (about US$415 million) maturing in July, Minister of Finance Boediono said on Friday. He said that the agency had collected enough funds to cover the payment of the maturing bonds.

Mahathir says he is 'relieved' by Anwar's support

Mahathir says he is 'relieved' by Anwar's support KUALA LUMPUR (Reuters): Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad said yesterday that he was "relieved" after hearing a pledge of support at a party convention by his deputy and appointed successor, Anwar Ibrahim. "I feel relieved because of this confession due to his loyalty to me not as Mahathir but as party president," Mahathir said in a speech on the last day of the three-day general assembly of the United Malays National Organization (UMNO).

Activists slam plan to revise Press Law

Activists slam plan to revise Press Law Muninggar Sri Saraswati, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Media activists criticized over the weekend a plan to revise the Press Law, saying the move would likely curtail press freedom. Alliance of Independent Journalists (AJI) chairman Eddy Suprapto said the government and the House of Representatives had no logical argument to support the revision of Law No. 40/1999 on the press.

Tracing the history of Indonesian thread culture

Tracing the history of Indonesian thread culture By Danielle Bray JAKARTA (JP): Have you ever wondered how the textile industry in Indonesia began? More importantly, the history of thread? Seldom a topic discussed, and only known to a handful of people, this artistic backbone of Indonesia was recently explained in length by Wahyono Martowikrido of The Indonesian Art and Culture Development Foundation.

Le Kha Phieu means to end instability

Le Kha Phieu means to end instability HANOI (AFP): The appointment of Gen. Le Kha Phieu as Vietnam's new Communist Party chief is intended to end instability in the ranks and has been forced on the ruling party by events at home and in the region. It also shows the reinforced power of the military at a time when the country is facing many difficult challenges, diplomats said yesterday.

President visits Habibie, plans to meet Soeharto

President visits Habibie, plans to meet Soeharto JAKARTA (JP): After having dinner with Gen. Wiranto on Friday night, President Abdurrahman Wahid continued his visits on Saturday by having breakfast with former president B.J. Habibie, with plans to meet Soeharto in the next few days. During the visit to Habibie's residence in Patra Kuningan, South Jakarta, Abdurrahman offered to give Habibie a house. Legally, as a former president, Habibie is entitled to be given a house by the state.

People can't stop talking about 'Gray Thursday'

People can't stop talking about 'Gray Thursday' JAKARTA (JP): The rioting and looting in Greater Jakarta last Thursday is still a hot topic even though business as usual resumed in the capital yesterday. People still comment on the widespread damage done to buildings as they travel through riot-hit areas of the city on public transportation. For many, yesterday was the first time they had been exposed to the ghastly wake of the social uprising.

House members wrestle to push out Akbar

House members wrestle to push out Akbar Kurniawan Hari, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Leaders of the factions at the House of Representatives (DPR) said on Tuesday that legislators have the right to propose the dismissal of Akbar Tandjung from his position as House speaker. "I think House members know of the mechanism to discuss this issue (Akbar's dismissal).

KPK Continues to Summon Hajj Travel Agency Directors as Witnesses in Yaqut Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned five directors of hajj travel agencies as witnesses in the ongoing investigation into alleged corruption involving the 2023-2024 hajj quota, which implicates former Minister of Religious Affairs Yaqut Cholil Qoumas. The examination took place at the KPK's Merah Putih building, with officials urging cooperation to ensure an effective probe. This follows the naming of two suspects, including the operational director of PT Makassar Toraja and a commissioner of PT Raudah Eksati Utama, who allegedly paid bribes totaling over $30,000 to intermediaries representing the former minister, resulting in illicit gains of Rp40.8 billion for affiliated agencies.

Political openness not yet real: Observers

Political openness not yet real: Observers JAKARTA (JP): Several political observers lashed out at the government yesterday for its feeble attempts at democratization and political openness, saying it has failed to follow up words with deeds. Eros Djarot, former chief editor of the DeTik weekly banned last year, and Marzuki Darusman, member of the National Commission on Human Rights, took a critical stance in a discussion on political openness and the globalization of information yesterday.

IMF exit policy must be acceptable to market: Experts

IMF exit policy must be acceptable to market: Experts The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The government must prepare a credible economic reform program if it wants the country to graduate from the current International Monetary Fund program successfully, according to experts. The experts said credibility was crucial to maintaining the support of the people and the international community for the country's fragile economy.

RI to host 3-day OIC meeting to discuss Islam

RI to host 3-day OIC meeting to discuss Islam JAKARTA (JP): President Soeharto will open a meeting of religious experts from 22 member countries of the Organization of Islamic Conference on Tuesday. Minister of Religious Affairs Tarmizi Taher told reporters on Thursday that 52 foreign participants and 150 domestic observers will discuss, in the three-day meeting, strategies for the propagation of Islam for the next five years.

Women try various methods to lose weight

Women try various methods to lose weight JAKARTA (JP): In an effort to attract the opposite sex and to be as slim as friends, people have tried all sorts of ways to lose weight. Some have turned out slim and happy, while others were less fortunate. Sugiarti, 25, a resident of Cirebon, West Java, entered a slimming program at a clinic in her hometown two years ago, when she was single. She was 55 kilograms and 152 centimeters high.

Megawati arrives from Europe with domestic problems waiting

Megawati arrives from Europe with domestic problems waiting Muhammad Nafik, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta President Megawati Soekarnoputri is scheduled to arrive home on Saturday from her two-week European visit, facing expectations of a Cabinet reshuffle and a row with her younger sister. Accompanied by her husband Taufik Kiemas and several ministers, she flew from Slovakia on Friday and was slated to make a brief stopover in Singapore before proceeding to Jakarta.

Indonesia likely to be a dominant issue at ASEM

Indonesia likely to be a dominant issue at ASEM By K. Basrie LONDON (JP): Indonesia's economic crisis will be a major topic at the 2nd Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) which begins here tomorrow, a British foreign office spokesman has said. Indonesia "will be a dominant issue" in the April 2 to April 4 ASEM 2 talks, M.H.P. Hill, head of the Southeast Asia Department, told The Jakarta Post in his office.

The Middle Class, Poverty, and the Reorientation of Economic Policy

The middle class in Indonesia, comprising around 66.35% of the population, drives domestic demand and contributes significantly to national household consumption at 81.49%, yet remains vulnerable to economic shocks, informal employment, and inflation. Globally, the middle class is shrinking, as evidenced by sharp declines in the US over the past 50 years and in China due to the property crisis and COVID-19 impacts, raising concerns among governments and academics. This trend underscores the need for policy reorientation to bolster the middle class and address poverty, ensuring sustainable economic growth.

RI press violates own code of ethics

RI press violates own code of ethics JAKARTA (JP): While the Indonesian press is constrained by a blatant lack of freedom, it has made the situation worse by ineptly violating its own ethical code. The problem became an impromptu topic at a seminar yesterday on the closure of newspapers, with particular reference to Indonesia Raya," which was banned in 1958 by president Sukarno's government and again in 1974 by the current administration following a student uprising.

Megawati urges Pancasila to be internalised and applied, not merely memorised

Megawati Soekarnoputri, Indonesia's fifth president and PDI Perjuangan chair, called for Pancasila to be deeply understood and practised in national life rather than just memorised, expressing concern over its fading significance. Speaking to elderly congregants at a Jakarta church, she linked Pancasila to nationalism, diversity, and global challenges, recounting her role in resolving post-Reformasi conflicts and dialogues with figures like Pope Francis on climate issues. She emphasised teaching Pancasila to the youth, upholding ethical discourse amid rising bullying, and preserving Indonesian cultural values in a globalised world.

Artificial Intelligence Supports Research Quality in Indonesia

Artificial intelligence is increasingly being deployed across Indonesian research institutions to enhance data analysis, accelerate research processes, and improve scientific outcomes. AI applications range from machine learning for identifying patterns in large datasets and computer vision for visual analysis to supporting the writing and publication of academic papers. Cyber University is leading efforts to integrate AI-based research training and practical implementation into its information technology programmes to develop innovative researchers aligned with Indonesia's digital transformation needs.

Gulf War offers chance to win `togel' lottery

Gulf War offers chance to win `togel' lottery Several days before the war broke out on Thursday, I was busy briefing people in my neighborhood about the latest situation in the Middle East. I figured they had come to me because I was the most authoritative person in the neighborhood with regard to the Iraq issue.

IPB on Alleged Sexual Harassment of Student: 2024 Case, Mediation Involved

IPB University is investigating an alleged sexual harassment case involving students from the Faculty of Engineering and Technology, stemming from inappropriate comments in a student group chat in 2024. The university has committed to a comprehensive and fair process prioritising the victim's recovery, including psychological support, strict enforcement of ethical codes, and prevention of intimidation. This response underscores IPB's efforts to foster a safe, inclusive academic environment free from violence and discrimination.

Learn about jazz at music clinics

Learn about jazz at music clinics Evi Mariani, The Jakarta Post/Jakarta Some opportunities are too rare to be missed, such as when legendary musicians, here for the Java Jazz festival, make themselves available for tips and advice. Top musicians, such as George Duke and Gilang Ramadhan, are among those offering instruction during the three days of music clinics at the festival.

Agrinas Boss Says Import of 105,000 Pick-up Trucks from India is Urgent, Why?

The head of Agrinas stated that the import of 105,000 pick-up trucks from India is necessary to support the operations of the Merah Putih Village/Urban Cooperative. With thousands of cooperatives ready to operate, a rapid distribution fleet is needed. While domestic manufacturers were approached, limited production capacity and pricing issues led to the decision to import from Mahindra and Tata Motors.

Purbaya: The US is in a Bind Due to the War, People Starting to Get Angry

Indonesian Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has commented that the US attack on Iran, followed by Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz, has caused oil prices to surge, leading to sharp increases in fuel costs and growing public anger in the US. This situation is pressuring President Trump politically, with declining support among his Republican base and potential advantages for Democrats ahead of midterm elections. The economic ripple effects, including higher operational costs for businesses and agriculture, underscore the global implications of the conflict.

ChatGPT CEO Defends AI, Claims Humans are More Wasteful

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has defended AI technology, arguing that claims of excessive energy and water consumption by systems like ChatGPT are misleading. He acknowledges energy consumption as a valid concern but emphasizes the global scale of AI usage, advocating for a rapid transition to renewable energy sources.

Magazine closures raise doubts about direction of openness

Magazine closures raise doubts about direction of openness JAKARTA (JP): A noted political scientist says the recent revocation of publishing licenses for three news magazines raises doubts about the direction of the current drive towards political openness in Indonesia. Daniel Dhakidae said Saturday he now doubted the sincerity of the campaign for openness currently being pursued, describing it as "a kind of political festivity in which we enjoy deceitful food".

Avoiding semantic chaos

Avoiding semantic chaos Since president Soeharto's resignation last month, people have been noisily calling for an end to corruption, collusion and nepotism. People also discuss ways to avoid a recurrence of such illicit business practices and ridicule those they believe are at the root of the three evil diseases. The topic has become so popular that people here have given the three problems a popular acronym, KKN, standing for 'korupsi', 'kolusi' and 'nepotisme'.

Australian agents raid RI Muslim homes

Australian agents raid RI Muslim homes Agencies, Sydney/Jakarta Heavily-armed Australian federal agents raided homes of Indonesian Muslims on Wednesday in a nationwide hunt for members of an Islamic radical group held responsible for the Oct. 12 bombing in Bali, AFP reported. Police and intelligence agents armed with submachine guns and wearing helmets, flak-jackets and masks smashed their way into two homes in pre-dawn raids in the Perth suburb of Thornlie in Western Australia.

Kontras Reveals Condition of Andrie Yunus Following Acid Attack

Andrie Yunus, deputy coordinator of Kontras (Commission for Missing Persons and Victims of Violence), sustained 24 per cent burns after being attacked with acid by unidentified assailants on 12 March 2026 whilst returning home from a podcast recording in Jakarta. The most serious injuries are to his right eye and both hands, requiring intensive specialist care at the national hospital. Indonesia's Coordinating Minister for Law, Human Rights, Immigration and Corrections has suggested the attack shows signs of organised planning, urging police to investigate not just the perpetrators but also potential intellectual architects behind the assault.

How Much Salary as a Kopdes Manager with BUMN Employee Status? Here's an Outline

The Indonesian government has clarified that managers for the Merah Putih Village Cooperative (KDMP) and Merah Putih Fishery Village (KNMP) will be employed under fixed-term contracts (PKWT) as per BUMN regulations, with salaries to be determined based on applicable rules and aligned with educational backgrounds. Recruitment targets entrepreneurial individuals skilled in business dealings with vendors, BUMNs, and local enterprises, amid a surge in applications reaching over 383,000 for just 35,476 positions. This initiative underscores the government's push to bolster rural and fishery cooperatives through structured employment and rigorous selection.

Why Saiful Mujani Says Prabowo Is Not Presidential

Political analyst Saiful Mujani has criticised President Prabowo Subianto for lacking presidential qualities, citing his initial statements echoing the authoritarian New Order era, threats to democracy, and non-inclusive attitudes towards critics. Mujani argues that Prabowo's policies, such as expanding military roles and populist spending, fail to align with promises of 8% economic growth and efficient governance, urging the public to remove him to save Indonesia. Responses from officials like Hasan Nasbi label these remarks as provocative and undemocratic, while Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya claims the president is focused on strategic matters.

Malaysia, S'pore could end problems in months

Malaysia, S'pore could end problems in months KUALA LUMPUR (Agencies): Singapore Senior Minister Lee Kuan Yew said on Thursday that his country and neighboring Malaysia could resolve bilateral problems in two to three months if there was enough political will on both sides.

NAM ministers meet to discuss crucial issues

NAM ministers meet to discuss crucial issues By Oei Eng Goan CAIRO (JP): International economic cooperation, the role of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) in a changing world and the selection of a new chair will be the main topics at NAM's 11th ministerial meeting.

Unidentified assailants open fire on students rallying in Makassar

Unidentified assailants open fire on students rallying in Makassar MAKASSAR, South Sulawesi (JP): Violence tore apart a semblance of peace here as three students were shot by an unidentified group of assailants in front of the Satriya Makassar University during a protest on Friday. Eyewitnesses said the assailants were on motorcycles and in uniforms commonly worn by riot police. The students were Sadrak, who was shot in the arm, and Matius and Hajar Aswad, who were shot in the legs.

Much ado about autonomy

Much ado about autonomy Much of the hype about granting increased autonomy to the regions will most likely end up as empty rhetoric. The government's bill on regional administration, presented to the House of Representatives last week, promises more authority and responsibility to provinces, regencies and mayoralties to run their own affairs, but not to the extent promoted by officials. Real power will still rest in the hands of the central administration in Jakarta, in this case the President.

Australian media makes martyr of Corby

Australian media makes martyr of Corby Neil Sands, Agence France-Presse/Sydney, Australia Australia's most recognized face right now is not a movie star or politician but a young beauty therapist facing life imprisonment in Indonesia for allegedly trafficking drugs to the resort island of Bali.

Trade issues will move to job protection: Subroto

Trade issues will move to job protection: Subroto NUSA DUA, Bali (JP): Senior Indonesian economist Subroto predicted yesterday that the most important trade issues between nations would not be the nationality of products but rather, where would trade generate jobs, and to whom.

Human resources development badly needed in regions

Human resources development badly needed in regions Kurniawan Hari, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Vice President Hamzah Haz ordered on Wednesday the heads of regional administrations to place greater emphasis on improving human resources. "A job is waiting for the heads of regional administrations: to improve the quality of human resources," Hamzah said, at the opening of a seminar on regional autonomy here.

Following the SNBP 2026 Announcement, Parents Begin Questioning the Effectiveness of Higher Education

Following the announcement of the 2026 National Selection Based on Achievement (SNBP) results, Indonesian parents are increasingly expressing doubts about the relevance and effectiveness of higher education in preparing students for the job market, amid low acceptance rates of just 22% from over 800,000 applicants. Social media discussions highlight concerns over unemployed graduates and mismatched careers, prompting a shift towards evaluating universities based on curriculum relevance, practical training, and soft skills development rather than prestige alone. This trend positions higher education as a strategic long-term investment, challenging institutions to bridge the gap between academia and professional readiness in a competitive landscape.

Territorial workshop fails to reach consensus on CBM

Territorial workshop fails to reach consensus on CBM By Prapti Widinugraheni BUKITTINGGI, West Sumatra (JP): Tough talks over the territorial claims and disputes in the South China Sea proceeded here yesterday despite the fact that workshop participants failed to reach a consensus on the group's confidence building measures (CBM).

MP: Alleged Sexual Harassment Case at UI Law Faculty is Momentum for Evaluation

An Indonesian House of Representatives member has described the alleged verbal sexual harassment case involving 16 students at the University of Indonesia's Faculty of Law as a critical opportunity for a comprehensive evaluation of the academic environment to prevent the normalisation of such abuses. He emphasised the need for victim protection, independent investigations, and systematic education on consent and the Sexual Violence Crime Law (TPKS) to foster a safe, inclusive educational space. The university has responded by initiating internal probes and victim-centred handling through its task force, highlighting ongoing efforts to address systemic issues in higher education.

TV Today: Friday, October 25, 2002

TV Today: Friday, October 25, 2002 TVRI .tb .30" .90" 5:00 a.m. Religious Teachings 6:00 News 8:00 Environment 9:00 Music 10:30 Quiz 11:00 News 11:30 Music 12:00 p.m. News 1:00 Talk Show 3:00 Music 4:00 TV Drama 6:00 News 7:00 Talk Show 9:00 News 9:30 Music 11:00 Puppet Show TPI 5:30 a.m. Religious Teachings 7:00 Quiz 8:00 Music 9:00 Entertainment News 10:00 Music 11:00 Traditional Comedy 12:00 p.m.

'Indonesia committed to privatization'

'Indonesia committed to privatization' Rebecca Thurlow, Dow Jones Newswires, Bandar Seri Begawan Indonesia's Senior Economics Minister Dorodjatun Kuntjoro- Jakti says the Indonesian government will push ahead with privatization despite popular opposition to the sale of state- owned assets.

Ministry of Health: Ensure Eid is elderly-friendly, not just festive

The Indonesian Ministry of Health has urged families to make Eid al-Fitr celebrations considerate of the elderly, emphasising that while the holiday brings joy through family reunions, it can also be physically and emotionally taxing due to disrupted routines and intense social interactions. Officials recommend practical measures such as providing comfortable seating, easy access to medications and healthy snacks, and opportunities for meaningful conversations to ensure seniors feel valued and supported. This guidance highlights the importance of empathy and planning to create safe, inclusive festivities that prioritise the well-being of older family members, with ongoing monitoring post-celebration to address any health concerns.

Profile of Inayah Wahid's Husband, KH Shalahuddin Warits: A Progressive Young Islamic Scholar from the Heart of Madura

KH Shalahuddin Warits, affectionately known as Ra Mamak, is a prominent young Islamic scholar from Madura who recently married Inayah Wahid, daughter of former Indonesian President Abdurrahman Wahid. As a key figure in the Annuqayah Islamic boarding school and a former candidate in the Sumenep regional election, he blends traditional religious education with modern activism on social, environmental, and political issues. His progressive approach, including advocacy for environmental fiqh and moderate religious discourse, positions him as an influential leader bridging pesantren traditions with contemporary challenges in Indonesian society.

House Commission III Agrees to Form Working Committee to Monitor Andrie Yunus Case

Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission III has agreed to establish a working committee to oversee the acid attack case against human rights defender Andrie Yunus, with additional plans for working meetings involving police, the Witness and Victim Protection Agency, and his legal team to ensure human rights protection. The commission is urging synergy between police and military under the new Criminal Procedure Code for connected trials and requesting comprehensive protection and medical recovery support for Yunus and related parties from the Witness and Victim Protection Agency, Health Ministry, and Finance Ministry. Authorities have identified two civilian suspects and detained four military intelligence personnel in connection with the attack, which occurred after Yunus recorded a podcast on militarism and the TNI Law.

On the CIA's role

On the CIA's role I thank Mr. Richardson for providing a list of names as sources for his article on the CIA's crimes in Indonesia. I have spent considerable time on the Internet, the only immediate resource available to me, to research what these names might have to say about the criminal activity of the CIA in Indonesia. In addition to Peter Dale Scott's article The United States and the overthrow of Sukarno, 1965-1967 at http://www.pir.org/scott.html, as mentioned by Mr.

Ministers agree to secure Strait of Malacca

Ministers agree to secure Strait of Malacca Fadli, The Jakarta Post, Batam Foreign ministers from Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore agreed on Tuesday not to involve other countries in securing the strategic Malacca Strait.

Inflation rate recovers after deflation in June

Inflation rate recovers after deflation in June JAKARTA (JP): Rising food prices pushed up the inflation rate in July, with the consumer price index rising 0.68 percent after June's deflation of 0.07 percent, Minister of Information Harmoko said yesterday. Harmoko attributed the increased inflation rate to a 1.04 percent rise in the price of food, which had fallen 0.05 percent in the previous month.

London blasts seen as valuable lesson for Southeast Asia

London blasts seen as valuable lesson for Southeast Asia Dan Eaton, Reuters/Jakarta Copycats could stage deadly London-style bombings in Southeast Asia's major cities, many of which are ill equiped to deal with such carnage, the secretary general of the region's main political grouping said on Monday. The July 7 London attacks serve as a valuable lesson to remain alert for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), which is battling its own forms of home-grown terrorism.

Muslim leaders meet on alternative force

Muslim leaders meet on alternative force JAKARTA (JP): Four leading Muslim politicians agreed on Saturday to push toward the presidential election by setting up an alliance expected to become an alternative to the existing two camps of Megawati Soekarnoputri of Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI Perjuangan) and B.J. Habibie of Golkar Party.

Singapore -- the region's hub of corporate education

Singapore -- the region's hub of corporate education Sudibyo M. Wiradji, The Jakarta Post, Singapore Known worldwide as a thriving, dynamic center for commerce and industry, Singapore has not only evolved into a preferred academic destination for overseas students but also a corporate learning and training hub. With education being the key to the development of Singapore's society, numerous educational institutions have been established to meet the need for quality education.

Political talk brews in Aceh's coffee shops

Political talk brews in Aceh's coffee shops Nani Afrida, The Jakarta Post, Banda Aceh In Aceh, Rp 500 not only pays for a steaming hot cup of coffee, but also a morning full of lively, sometimes quarrelsome conversation. While an international coffee store behemoth (you know the one) touts its unique "experience", men in Aceh have long had their equivalent, beginning their morning at the coffee shop, just as their fathers and grandfathers did before them.

Gema Bangsa Proposes Implementing a Faction Threshold Scheme

The chairman of the Gema Bangsa party, Ahmad Rofiq, has proposed replacing the parliamentary threshold with a faction threshold scheme. He argues this would better represent the people's voice and prevent votes from being lost, as happened in the 2024 election. The party is also focusing on consolidating its structure in Jakarta, with a focus on involving younger generations in leadership roles.

What to do if your child wants to be an athlete

What to do if your child wants to be an athlete JAKARTA (JP): Sports has always been a topic of conversation in our family. We often discuss the latest news in soccer, badminton and other sports, rehashing matches and agonizing over the results. So when my three-year-old son announced he wanted to be a soccer player, I was not prepared for my husband's reaction. I expected him to be supportive, but instead he reproached our son.

Sampoerna workers concerned about their fate

Sampoerna workers concerned about their fate ID Nugroho, The Jakarta Post/Surabaya Lina's nimble hands, as if programed, were busy packing a stack of hand-rolled cigarettes, her left hand positioning a piece of paper between a wooden device for the soft pack of the Dji Sam Soe kretek cigarettes and her right hand feeding the cigarettes horizontally into the pack.

RI move to downgrade ties with Sweden counterproductive: Expert

RI move to downgrade ties with Sweden counterproductive: Expert A'an Suryana, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Any moves by Indonesia to put its diplomatic ties with Sweden on the line could backfire on Jakarta's long-time efforts to capture Free Aceh Movement (GAM) rebel leaders in exile in the European country, an international relations expert has warned.

Contrast: Attack on Andrie Yunus Is Not an Ordinary Criminal Act

Jane Rosalina, head of the Impunity Monitoring Division at Contrast (Commission for the Disappeared and Victims of Violence), has urged the government to consider the political context in the acid attack against Andrie Yunus, the organisation's Deputy Coordinator, which occurred on 12 March 2026. Rosalina argues that the attack should be classified as a potential human rights crime rather than an ordinary criminal act, suggesting systematic and organised violence targeting civil society activists who expose abuse of power and human rights violations. The Coordination Minister for Law, Human Rights, Immigration and Corrections, Yusril Ihza Mahendra, has similarly called for a thorough investigation that extends beyond the field perpetrators to identify the intellectual actors behind the attack.

Kontras Calls on State to Focus on Law Enforcement in Andrie Yunus Case

The Commission for the Disappeared and Victims of Violence (Kontras) has called for state institutions and civil society to focus on rigorous law enforcement following the acid attack on Andrie Yunus, Deputy Coordinator of Kontras, rather than focusing solely on hospital visits during his recovery. The Coordinating Minister for Law, Human Rights, Immigration, and Corrections has indicated the attack appears to be organised and planned, urging police to investigate not only the perpetrators but also any intellectual architects behind the assault.

Top 3: US Strikes on Iran and Prabowo Summons Ministers

The week's most-read news stories include the Awakening Party's condemnation of US-Israeli strikes on Iran that killed Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei on 28 February 2026, the death of former Vice President Try Sutrisno, and President Prabowo Subianto's meeting with cabinet ministers to discuss the geopolitical fallout and potential impact of Iran's Strait of Hormuz closure on Indonesia's oil imports.

National Nutrition Agency Clarifies: Nutritious Meal Budget Rp 8,000–10,000 per Serving, Not Rp 15,000

Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency Deputy Head Nanik Sudaryati Deyang has clarified that the food ingredient budget for the nutritious meal programme (MBG) is Rp 8,000–10,000 per serving, not Rp 15,000 as circulated on social media. The higher allocations of Rp 13,000–15,000 per serving include operational costs (Rp 3,000) and incentives for implementing partners.

Fears of constitutional reforms deadlock subside

Fears of constitutional reforms deadlock subside Kurniawan Hari, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Fears of a deadlock in the constitutional amendment process subsided on Sunday when the Interest Groups faction (FUG) reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the finalization of the latest batch of amendments to the 1945 Constitution.

Recognised by Europeans, This Indonesian Fruit Could Be a Solution to the Crisis

The Indonesian fruit known as sukun, or breadfruit, has long fascinated Europeans for its nutritional value and potential as a staple food in times of scarcity, with historical accounts from explorers like William Dampier and James Cook highlighting its role in addressing food shortages. Modern research confirms its status as a superfood rich in vitamins, minerals, and fibre, capable of thriving in harsh conditions, positioning it as a vital commodity in combating global food crises exacerbated by climate change. Originating from the Indonesian archipelago, sukun's global spread underscores its significance in sustainable agriculture and food security.

DPR's Response to the Airspace Access Agreement for the US

The Deputy Chairman of DPR Commission I, Sukamta, has stated that the commission is monitoring plans for a cooperation agreement granting the US military blanket overflight access in Indonesian airspace, describing the information as speculative. He emphasised the need for legislative consultation on such defence agreements to safeguard national sovereignty and interests, urging careful consideration of regional geopolitical implications. The Ministry of Defence confirmed that the agreement remains in internal discussions and lacks binding legal force, affirming Indonesia's full authority over its airspace.

Scholars predict doom, gloom after Saddam

Scholars predict doom, gloom after Saddam Fabiola Desy Unidjaja, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Local Middle East researchers downplayed the importance of Saddam Hussein's capture for the United States-led coalition on Monday and predicted that it would not end security problems in Iraq. They also warned that radicalism may rise among the people in many Middle East countries if the U.S.

Will this be the last?

Will this be the last? News of fatal railway accidents are so regular in this country that if they do not claim numerous human lives then they are commonly treated as insignificant events. Last year alone there were 14 accidents involving trains, killing 85 people. Twelve of the accidents occurred on the overcrowded island of Java and two on Sumatra, where only two of the island's provinces operate railway systems making news of such tragedies rarely heard over there.

Parliament Urges TNI and Police to Pursue All Perpetrators in Acid Attack on KontraS Activist

Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission III has called on the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and National Police (Polri) to collaborate in investigating the acid attack on KontraS deputy coordinator Andrie Yunus, emphasising the use of the new Criminal Procedure Code to handle the case through the general court system. The commission praised the authorities for identifying suspects, including four TNI personnel, and agreed to form a working committee to monitor the case while committing to protect human rights. This incident, occurring after Yunus discussed militarism and the TNI Law, highlights concerns over threats to activists and the need for transparent accountability to prevent impunity.

Assessing the Direction of Welfare Policy for Honorary Teachers

An academic analysis examines the structural challenges facing Indonesia's honorary (non-civil servant) teachers, who remain essential to school operations yet receive inadequate pay and lack job security. Whilst recent government policies including the PPPK scheme and increased incentives from Rp300,000 to Rp400,000 per month in 2026 signal progress, fundamental issues of fragmented funding and uneven teacher distribution across regions persist.

House threatens to delay COW deliberations

House threatens to delay COW deliberations JAKARTA (JP): House of Representatives' Commission VI for industry, mining, manpower and investment has threatened to delay deliberations on the seventh generation draft contracts of work (COWs) until the government has resolved the issue of the commission taking bribes from COW applicants. The commission's chairman, Erie Soekardja, said "we want to work in a conducive atmosphere.

Chinese cheongsam fashion dominates Indonesian Eid 2026 clothing trends

Chinese cheongsam-inspired clothing is dominating Eid fashion trends in Indonesia, with vendors at Jakarta's Tanah Abang Market reporting sales of hundreds of cheongsam-style garments weekly. The trend, which has gained momentum through social media platforms like TikTok, has led to adaptations of traditional Chinese design elements such as characteristic button fastenings and standing collars to suit the needs of Muslim women wearing hijabs, with prices ranging from 300,000 to 450,000 Indonesian rupiah per outfit.

Energy Efficiency: Remote Learning for Students Set to Be Reimplemented from April?

The Indonesian government is considering reinstating remote learning for students as part of a broader energy efficiency policy starting in April 2026, amid global oil supply concerns from restrictions in the Strait of Hormuz. Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture Pratikno stated that options like distance learning are under review to ensure measurable energy savings without unduly disrupting education or public services, with in-person sessions maintained for practical subjects. This initiative also includes flexible work schemes for civil servants, enhanced digital platforms, and reduced official travel, aligning with similar energy-saving measures adopted by neighbouring Southeast Asian countries such as the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam.

Bule and cowards

Bule and cowards One Sunday morning, while cycling along Jl. Sudirman, a taxi passed by me and the young passenger shouted at the top of his lungs, "Bulek! F..k you!" Shocked, I looked around. The street was almost deserted. I was riding very close to roadside, so couldn't have been in the way. So what in the world had I done to deserve such rude treatment? My heart immediately raced, my adrenaline level rose, and I started pumping on my bike pedals.

Indonesian women played prominent role in history

Indonesian women played prominent role in history Prominent Women in the Glimpse of History Ibrahim Alfian, Editor Published by Bank Exim Jakarta, 1994 155 pages JAKARTA (JP): The woman's role has always been a hot topic in developing countries and will apparently continue to be so into the next century. Like the condition in many other countries, the woman's role in Indonesia has somewhat improved although it is still far way from matching those of men.

A president from the legislature: Soemitro's dream

A president from the legislature: Soemitro's dream JAKARTA (JP): Retired General Soemitro has again added fuel to the succession debate, saying he would like to see the next Indonesian president come from the ranks of the House of Representatives. "My own personal dream is to see, as the next president, someone who has served in the House," said the former commander of the powerful Internal Security Agency.

For Sponsored Page: Singapore Corporate Education

For Sponsored Page: Singapore Corporate Education Singapore -- the region's hub of corporate education Known worldwide as a thriving, dynamic center for commerce and industry, Singapore has not only evolved into a preferred academic destination for overseas students but also a corporate learning and training hub. With education being the key to the development of Singapore's society, numerous educational institutions have been established to meet the need for quality education.

Moments When UI Law Students Involved in Sexual Harassment Group Chat Are 'Publicly Shamed' on Campus

Dozens of University of Indonesia (UI) law students faced public condemnation and jeering during an open forum on campus after being exposed for participating in a sexual harassment chat group. The internal hearing, which nearly turned chaotic, featured direct apologies from the 16 perpetrators to victims, but student leaders emphasised that apologies alone are insufficient and called for firm sanctions to support the victims. UI authorities have acknowledged the allegations, condemned the behaviour, and pledged to monitor the handling of the case amid public outcry over the university's reputation.

RI demands "flexibility" with agriculture tariffs

RI demands "flexibility" with agriculture tariffs Adianto P. Simamora, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The government has called for greater "flexibility" on the import tariff policy on key agriculture products during the recent informal ministerial World Trade Organization (WTO) meeting in Japan, a senior official at the Ministry of Trade and Industry said on Friday. "We want the flexibility in tariff cuts for four products. This is our position at the WTO talks," Pos M.

Schools Continue Face-to-Face Learning Amid Crisis: Reasons from the Minister of Basic and Secondary Education

Indonesia's Minister of Basic and Secondary Education, Abdul Mu’ti, has affirmed that in-person schooling will proceed normally despite the global crisis, prioritising academic considerations and character education for students. This decision follows inter-ministerial coordination and aligns with the Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture's emphasis on offline learning to prevent learning loss, while supporting broader government initiatives like school revitalisation and digital transformation. The policy underscores education as a top priority, with technical guidelines forthcoming via ministerial circular.

Dozens of Students in Brebes Fall Victim to Misuse of Hard Drugs

Fourteen students from Brebes Regency, Central Java, have become victims of the misuse of hard drugs and dangerous medicines sold freely at Aceh stalls, according to the Tegal City National Narcotics Agency (BNN). From January to early April 2026, a total of 35 victims were recorded, including 26 students from Brebes, Tegal City, and Tegal Regency, highlighting the growing threat of illegal drug circulation in the region. Local authorities emphasise the need for collaborative efforts between government, law enforcement, and communities to combat this issue, which poses serious risks to public health and social perspectives.

Rudini for abolition of permits

Rudini for abolition of permits JAKARTA (JP): Former home affairs minister Rudini called yesterday for the abolition of the policy requiring people to obtain government permission to hold gatherings, saying that Indonesia was not in "a state of war". His successor, current Minister Moch. Yogie S.M., defended the policy, although he agreed that the procedures should be relaxed and that, for most gatherings, informing the authorities should suffice.

Debate rages on over central bank bill

Debate rages on over central bank bill JAKARTA (JP): The government and the House of Representatives failed to reach an agreement on whether to retain Bank Indonesia's (BI) banking supervisory function in the new central bank bill currently being debated. House Commission VIII for state budget and finance decided on Tuesday in a debate session with the minister of finance, to take into account the central bank's opinion in a closed-door session.

The caning debate: More cons than pro

The caning debate: More cons than pro JAKARTA (JP): The caning of an American teenager as punishment by the Singapore court has provoked a lively debate among Indonesian's as to the ethical and moral validity of corporal punishment. Many here in Jakarta were swept up in the discussion, a majority of whom being critical of the punishment but understanding Singapore's resolve to execute it's judicial sovereignty. "I'm against caning ...

NAM officials call for additional meeting

NAM officials call for additional meeting By Meidyatama Suryodiningrat BANDUNG (JP): Ministers of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) will cap off their three-day gathering on Thursday with an additional meeting to plot a common view on such critical issues as nuclear non-proliferation and reform of the United Nations Security Council. The decision to hold an extra-ordinary meeting came at the closing session of NAM's two-day senior officials meeting which ended on late Saturday night.

Mudik More Comfortable and Stylish, Pertamina Prepares Enduro Lesehan and Standby Workshops for 2026

Pertamina Lubricants launches the Ramadan Idul Fitri Programme (RAFI) 2026 with a three-pillar strategy—digital activation, CSR, and on-road services for mudik travellers. The initiative features the Lesehan Enduro and Serambi Fastron rest concepts, plus Mudik Preparation and Standby Workshops running in March across several Indonesian regions to improve safety and comfort for homebound travellers.

Saiful Mujani Deems Prabowo's Victory Undemocratic

Saiful Mujani, founder of SMRC, has criticised Prabowo Subianto's 2024 presidential victory as undemocratic, describing it as electoral autocracy due to mechanisms favouring Prabowo and Gibran Rakabuming Raka. He calls for Prabowo's removal from office, citing incompetence and lack of presidential stature, suggesting alternatives like parliamentary action, waiting for 2029 elections, or people power akin to historical movements in 1966 and 1998. Government officials, including former Presidential Office Head Hasan Nasbi, have condemned Mujani's remarks as provocative and undemocratic, while Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya claims ignorance of the statements.

PDI Perjuangan warns Gus Dur over delegitimation

PDI Perjuangan warns Gus Dur over delegitimation JAKARTA (JP): Abdurrahman Wahid's controversial leadership style is causing consternation in political circles with the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI Perjuangan) on Wednesday warning of delegitimation if the president does not curb his confusing manner.

The tale from the tape

The tale from the tape The fact that many Indonesians look in quite a jovial mood these days does not mean that the devastating economic crisis has ended. They simply say they have a jocular topic in their daily conversation: the leakage of a telephone conversation between President B.J. Habibie and Attorney General Andi M. Ghalib about, among other things, the investigation into former president Soeharto's alleged corruption.

Multatuli's message

Multatuli's message Any exchange of views that occurs between an expatriate and an Indonesian reader in the readers forum of The Jakarta Post on a topic that bears an instructive message must certainly be welcome. Such writings contribute to enrich knowledge and information, particularly to Indonesian readers. So the advantage in terms of widening visions of the intellectualism is surely heartening.

U.S. funds to seek Asian stocks, says J.P. Morgan

U.S. funds to seek Asian stocks, says J.P. Morgan BANGKOK (Reuter): The much-awaited movement of U.S. funds to Asian bourses, as Wall Street's gains approach saturation point, may take place from the second half of 1996, a senior J.P. Morgan & Co Inc official said yesterday.

Harmful forces 'threaten state'

Harmful forces 'threaten state' JAKARTA (JP): Armed Forces (ABRI) Commander Gen. Wiranto warned yesterday of attempts by certain forces to destroy people's confidence in the government, including the military, which, if not stopped, could lead to national disintegration. "There are people who have systematically been creating rumors to stir trouble.

Ginandjar clarifies rice distribution

Ginandjar clarifies rice distribution JAKARTA (JP): Responding to Japan's concern over reports of problems in the distribution of its rice loan, Coordinating Minister for Economy, Finance and Industry Ginandjar Kartasasmita invited on Thursday any parties, including journalists and nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), to directly check the distribution of the rice. "I have told the Japanese government to send their investigators here," Ginandjar said after accompanying President B.J.

After Deadly Floods in Sumatra, Indonesia Moves Against Polluters

When torrential rains triggered floods and landslides across three provinces in Sumatra late last year, entire villages were swept away, more than 1,200 people were killed and forests upstream collapsed under the weight of decades of unchecked exploitation. Now, Indonesia’s government is moving to hold companies accountable. The Indonesian government has filed multiple lawsuits seeking more than US$200 million in damages against six firms after deadly floods wreaked havoc across Sumatra.

UK Partnership in Yogyakarta Focuses on Transportation and Climate

The UK Ambassador to Indonesia, Dominic Jermey, has outlined a strategic partnership between the UK and Indonesia in the Special Region of Yogyakarta, emphasising low-carbon transportation development and climate action initiatives. This collaboration, launched earlier this year by President Prabowo Subianto and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, includes support for integrated urban mobility systems, electric vehicle ecosystems, community-based climate resilience programmes, and youth development efforts. Accompanied by Gusti Kanjeng Ratu Mangkubumi, the ambassador visited Yogyakarta's Tugu Station to discuss inclusive, sustainable projects that balance infrastructure improvements with the preservation of historical and cultural sites.

Economists' gathering

Economists' gathering The 13th Congress of the Indonesian Economists Association, which begins this afternoon at the Tiara Convention Center in Medan, North Sumatra, has chosen "Managed market economy in the run-up to the 21st century" as the central topic for its three days of discussions. The concept of managed market forces -- which market players simply and, sometimes, disdainfully, call government intervention -- has actually been inherent in Indonesia's economic system.

Aceh's 'peace' thrives on 'sustainable violence'

Aceh's 'peace' thrives on 'sustainable violence' Aboeprijadi Santoso, Radio Netherlands, Amsterdam A year after the Presidential Order No. 4/2001, which commenced a military crackdown, the control of the Free Aceh Movement (GAM) seems to have declined, but it is a long, long way before Jakarta could regain the trust of the Acehnese. Meanwhile violence continues unabated.

RI foreign policy: What's in store for 1996

RI foreign policy: What's in store for 1996 JAKARTA (JP): Compared to the previous two years, 1996 will likely see a slight dimming of the spotlight on foreign policy. No longer does Indonesia chair the 113-nation Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), although the country will remain a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council. What will remain is the glare of East Timor.

Susilo talks up Aceh peace process in Big Apple

Susilo talks up Aceh peace process in Big Apple Kornelius Purba, The Jakarta Post, New York The Aceh peace agreement is likely to be judged the biggest achievement of President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono's administration so far, and Susilo is making the most of this positive when he meets with other world leaders in New York this week.

Players see lottery as quickest way to easy money

Players see lottery as quickest way to easy money Rendi A. Witular, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Rudi, an ojek (motorcycle taxi) driver at the Kebayoran Lama traditional market in South Jakarta, is similar to millions of Jakartans who dream of getting rich quick through gambling. He always surges to the front of the ticket booth for an illegal lottery coupon, which costs Rp 500 (US cents 5.3). Each month, Rudi spends about Rp 15,000 on buying tickets.

Debating about condoms

Debating about condoms At this point in our history, when the nation is busy weighing the merits of introducing greater participatory politics against the need for maintaining stability and when new organizations seem to be sprouting up like mushrooms in the rainy season -- to borrow a popular Indonesian saying -- debating the pros and cons of popularizing the use of condoms may seem a bit trivial. Yet, the issue is foremost in the minds of many for a very good reason.

House agrees to meet Susilo on Monday over fuel protests

House agrees to meet Susilo on Monday over fuel protests The Jakarta Post, Jakarta House of Representatives leaders have agreed to hold a consultative meeting on Monday with President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono to discuss the fuel price hikes, which many legislators have rejected. The decision was seen by many as a setback for certain House factions that were attempting to set up an immediate inquiry into the President over the price increases.

US Arrests Two Family Members of Late Iranian General Soleimani

The United States has arrested the niece and great-niece of the late Iranian General Qassem Soleimani after revoking their permanent resident status, as announced by the US State Department. This action, taken under Secretary of State Marco Rubio, targets vocal supporters of Iran's regime, amid heightened tensions following Soleimani's 2020 killing and recent deaths of other Iranian officials. The Trump administration's move underscores its policy against harbouring individuals linked to what it describes as anti-American terrorist regimes.

RI expects economy to pick up in Mid-2004

RI expects economy to pick up in Mid-2004 Jenny Paris, Dow Jones, Phuket, Thailand Indonesia's economy should begin to post strong growth next year after uncertainty surrounding the July presidential election subsides, Finance Minister Boediono said on Friday. All aspects of the economy will be "more manageable," Boediono told Dow Jones Newswires in an interview.

ICW distrusts government's stance on Ghalib case

ICW distrusts government's stance on Ghalib case JAKARTA (JP): The Indonesian Corruption Watch (ICW) expressed doubt on Wednesday that the government and the military would earnestly investigate the corruption allegedly committed by former attorney general Andi M. Ghalib. ICW member Bambang Widjojanto announced neither the government or the military had undertaken concrete steps to follow up his organization's report about the corruption case.

Indonesia to present long wish list to Powell

Indonesia to present long wish list to Powell The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The Indonesian government has prepared a long wish list to deliver to the U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell, who will be here on a three-day visit until Sunday. The list covers many areas, ranging from restoring military cooperation to settling a commercial dispute involving the Karaha Bodas power project.

PPPK Conversion to PNS: Civil Service Aspirations and Regulatory Constraints

Thousands of contractual government employees (PPPK) are demanding conversion to permanent civil servant (PNS) status due to job insecurity and inadequate benefits, but the government insists any transition must follow standard recruitment procedures without direct conversion. The issue highlights tensions between employee welfare concerns and fiscal constraints, with potential solutions proposed including extended contracts, pension access, and expedited recruitment rather than status conversion.

Li denounces Japan's fear of China's strength

Li denounces Japan's fear of China's strength KUALA LUMPUR (Agencies): Chinese Premier Li Peng denounced Japan yesterday and dismissed fears of Beijing's growing economic and military strength in Southeast Asia, a region traditionally wary of China. "You have overestimated the strength of China's economy. We are not that powerful yet," Li said. And in terms of military strength, "up to now, we have not acquired any aircraft carriers".

Among active ancestors at Candi Sukuh in C. Java

Among active ancestors at Candi Sukuh in C. Java Text and photo by Simon Marcus Gower SURAKARTA, Central Java (JP): Sexual indiscretions are often the topic of tabloids and gossip but are not generally associated with places of worship. However, visit a particular ancient temple in Central Java and such thoughts may come to the forefront of your mind. Candi Sukuh has gained some notoriety for its tales concerning the more racy, scandalous aspects of life.

APEC wants economic gaps closed

APEC wants economic gaps closed By Meidyatama Suryodiningrat NUSA DUA, Bali (JP): The second Senior Official Meeting (SOM) of the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) began here yesterday with a call to narrow the economic gap between the developed and developing member nations.

Manufacturing Momentum Drives Laboratory Industry Growth, Projected to Reach $3.1 Billion by 2027

Indonesia leads Asia and ranks fourth globally in laboratory operations, with over 10,500 labs in operation and 2,000 accredited, primarily serving medical, pharmaceutical, educational, industrial, and research sectors. The laboratory industry market is projected to exceed $3.1 billion by 2027, fueled by manufacturing growth and demands for quality control and regulatory compliance. The upcoming Lab Indonesia 2026 exhibition, expecting 697 participants and 15,000 visitors, underscores optimism and will feature advanced technologies, discussions on sustainable practices, and efforts to address challenges like import dependency and research integration.

'Krismon', 'Krismom' or 'supermom'

'Krismon', 'Krismom' or 'supermom' JAKARTA (JP): "Today we are having chicken corn casserole without the corn, French onion soup without the onion or there's pizza without the melted cheese on top," announced a friend at the dinner table.

The Listening Post

The Listening Post * A new consideration for the rights of indigenous peoples has characterized social thought in the last couple of decades (especially in the Americas, with their large -- and oppressed -- Indian populations). Readers may be aware of recent and momentous, court decisions regarding the land rights of Aborigines in Australia.

ASEAN FMs can't agree on Myanmar during retreat in Philippines

ASEAN FMs can't agree on Myanmar during retreat in Philippines Jason Gutierrez, Agence France-Presse/Mactan, Philippines Southeast Asian foreign ministers failed to reach a consensus Monday on the issue of Myanmar's ASEAN chairmanship next year but told the military-ruled state to push forward with democratic reforms.

ARF opens with informal dinner

ARF opens with informal dinner JAKARTA (JP): The ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) began yesterday evening with an informal working dinner attended by the participating foreign ministers. They were seated together at an elongated table in alphabetical order with most donning batik shirts. Others, such as Ireland's Dick Spring and U.S. Secretary of State Warren Christopher, wore suits to the dinner hosted by Indonesia's Ali Alatas.

Will Tommy ever face the music?

Will Tommy ever face the music? Fabiola Desy Unidjaja and Tertiani ZB Simanjuntak, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Will Hutomo "Tommy" Mandala Putra ever be punished? This is the question that is preoccupying the minds of many people following his arrest on Wednesday. Tommy's arrest has undoubtedly become the hot topic of conversation across the country, but many have expressed pessimism about the legal process awaiting him, saying that the millionaire will in the end buy his freedom.

TV Today: Friday, December 20, 2002

TV Today: Friday, December 20, 2002 .TB.30" .90" TVRI .tb .30" .90" 6:00 a.m. News 8:30 Environment 9:00 Film 9:30 Talk Show 10:30 Quiz 11:00 News 11:30 Music 12:00 p.m. News 1:00 Talk Show 2:30 Gatra Kencana 3:30 Religious Teachings 4:00 Comedy 5:00 Quiz 7:00 Talk Show 8:00 Variety Show 9:00 News 9:30 Music 11:00 Traditional Performance TPI 6:00 a.m. News 7:00 Quiz 8:00 Music 9:00 Entertainment News 9:30 Music 10:30 TV Mistery 12:00 p.m.

PDI-P considers entering VP fray

PDI-P considers entering VP fray JAKARTA (JP): The General Session of the People's Consultative Assembly will end on Thursday with the vice presidential election, in which the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle could win a consolation pride. But hours after a bitter loss of Megawati Soekarnoputri in the contest for the country's top job to underrated Abdurrahman Wahid on Wednesday, PDI Perjuangan leaders had not yet named a candidate for the second highest post.

Philippine peso may fall vs rupiah on oil surge

Philippine peso may fall vs rupiah on oil surge Benjamin Pedley and Sharon Lim, Dow Jones, Singapore A rise in crude oil prices to their highest in 13 and a half years is a boon for some economies in Southeast Asia and a bane for others, creating trading opportunities in an obscure currency cross.

City administration told to focus on stability, security

City administration told to focus on stability, security JAKARTA (JP): Observers and residents called on the city administration on Wednesday to place more focus on maintaining stability and security in the capital, and less on holding celebrations to commemorate the capital's 473rd anniversary on Thursday. Many city residents claimed they had lost their enthusiasm for celebrating the city's anniversary, saying deteriorating living conditions in the city was far more important a topic.

Ahmad Samsuri’s PN chairman role does not make him opposition coalition’s prime ministerial pick: Muhyiddin

Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar's appointment as the opposition coalition's chairman does not imply he is the bloc's prime ministerial candidate, Bersatu president Muhyiddin Yassin says. Muhyiddin reaffirmed that the PM candidacy has not been discussed and echoed PAS support that the chair is a post, not a PM pick. He also said he would oppose Hamzah Zainudin rejoining PN under a new party, noting Bersatu's strength remains despite internal divisions, and that PN's four components are unlikely to accept Hamzah's return.

Limit presidential term after Soeharto: Siswono

Limit presidential term after Soeharto: Siswono JAKARTA (JP): Minister of Transmigration Siswono Yudohusodo said yesterday that in the post-Soeharto era after 2003, Indonesia should limit a president's tenure to 10 years. Siswono told a seminar on future leadership that Indonesia had in the past 52 years seen only two presidents who both came to power through extraordinary processes.

IT projects help reduce poverty through education

IT projects help reduce poverty through education Indra Harsaputra, The Jakarta Post/Surabaya Mohammad Khotim, 19, who runs the e-Pabelan IT Center at the Pabelan Mungkid Islamic boarding school in Magelang, Central Java, was thrilled after winning second place in a nationwide Information and Communications Technology competition organized by Microsoft. Amazingly, prior to the establishment of the e-Pabelan IT Center pilot project on Aug. 23, 2004, Mohammad knew next to nothing about computers.

Mideast crisis may cloud IPU meeting

Mideast crisis may cloud IPU meeting JAKARTA (JP): President Abdurrahman Wahid is due to open the 104th conference of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) this evening under the cloud of the Middle East crisis. Even before the official start of the proceedings, the heightened tensions between Israel and the Palestinians are already grabbing the attention of arriving delegates of the weeklong conference.

Asian ministers prepare Asia-Europe summit

Asian ministers prepare Asia-Europe summit By Philip McClellan BANGKOK (AFP): Asian economic ministers are to meet in Thailand this week to prepare for next month's Asia-Europe summit which will touch on political and security issues, but be mainly economic in focus. Asian officials have been keen to stress the economic aspects of the summit, to take place March 1-2 in Bangkok, and to keep away from contentious areas such as human rights that the Europeans have been eager to discuss.

Accused of Owning 750 MBG Kitchens, Uya Kuya Recalls Looting Incident

Indonesian House of Representatives member Uya Kuya has filed a police report against the alleged spread of hoaxes claiming he owns 750 MBG kitchens, a baseless accusation that has left him puzzled and distressed. He links this to a previous hoax that incited the looting of his home in August 2025, which remains unrepaired, and vows to take legal action under cyber and criminal laws to prevent further defamation. The report, registered with Metro Jaya Police on 18 April 2026, underscores the ongoing challenges faced by public figures in combating online misinformation in Indonesia.

Children of all sizes need healthy diet

Children of all sizes need healthy diet Melissa Southern-Garcia, Dietitian, Jakarta, southerndietitian@yahoo.com I receive many questions from readers about problems with overweight children. Childhood obesity is a topic that has received much press lately and has actually reached epidemic proportions in many countries. Although some parents may still be unaware of the dangers of childhood obesity, it has, for the most part, become common knowledge. There is, however, another side to this story.

On the Shelves

On the Shelves Pulung Gantung - Menyingkap Tragedi Bunuh Diri di Gunungkidul (Pulung Gantung - Uncovering Suicide Tragedy in Gunungkidul) Darmaningtyas Introduction by Dr. Francis Wahono Published by Salwa Press-Yogyakarta in cooperation with Yayasan Adikarya Ikapi and The Ford Foundation, 2002, 426 pp Suicide is taking one's own life voluntarily and intentionally.

On the Shelves

On the Shelves Pulung Gantung - Menyingkap Tragedi Bunuh Diri di Gunungkidul (Pulung Gantung - Uncovering Suicide Tragedy in Gunungkidul); Darmaningtyas; Introduction by Dr. Francis Wahono; Published by Salwa Press-Yogyakarta in cooperation with Yayasan Adikarya Ikapi and The Ford Foundation, 2002, 426 pp Suicide is taking one's own life voluntarily and intentionally.

IPB Investigates Alleged Sexual Harassment in Student Group Chat, Here Are the Results

IPB University has launched a comprehensive investigation into allegations of sexual harassment in a student group chat at its Faculty of Engineering and Technology, where inappropriate comments were made about a female student in 2024. The university prioritises the victim's safety and recovery, providing psychological and academic support, while committing to strict enforcement of ethical codes and fostering a campus culture free from discrimination and violence. This case, which gained viral attention on social media, underscores IPB's dedication to transparent, accountable processes to prevent future incidents and promote inclusivity in academic environments.

Ageless aunts and tactless taunts

Ageless aunts and tactless taunts JAKARTA (JP): I am told that tante (pronounced taan-teh, of Dutch origin) used to be a respectful way of addressing an aunt who was a blood relation. Today the not-so-young as well as the young are using the word jeeringly to refer to a woman of a certain age. They stereotype her as having puffy hair, a powdered and rouged face and being some what broad in the beam. Having painted this portrait, this sad story I must tell.

Time for soul searching

Time for soul searching In the last several weeks a very interesting debate has been going on among the public. A wide range of topics, ranging from corruption to political collusion, moral decay and sensitive issues, such as the business activities of the children of high ranking government officials, have been openly discussed, mainly in the media. So, too, is the question of whether we should pardon those who were involved in the 1965 communist coup.

Terrorism, trade to top APEC summit in Thailand

Terrorism, trade to top APEC summit in Thailand Darren Schuettler, Reuters, Bangkok The scourge of global terrorism after a year of deadly bombings and rescuing world trade talks will dominate an Asia- Pacific summit in Bangkok this month, Thailand's chief summit organizer said on Wednesday. Tej Bunnag also declared Thailand -- mounting a huge security operation amid fears it poses a soft target for militants -- is ready to host the 21 leaders, including U.S. President George W.

Violence increases in Aceh as peace process in danger

Violence increases in Aceh as peace process in danger The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Armed encounters between government troops and rebels are increasing in troubled Aceh as calls mount in Jakarta for the replacement of the Henry Dunant Centre (HDC), a Swiss-based non- governmental organization brokering a peace pact signed last December.

Nurcholish must share his thoughts with the world

Nurcholish must share his thoughts with the world Harry Bhaskara, The Jakarta Post A modest symposium was held recently on Nurcholish Madjid, one of Indonesia's most revered Islamic scholars. Apart from celebrating the 66th birthday of the intellectual, the symposium was held in conjunction with the seventh anniversary of the university he founded, Paramadina Mulia University.

Keep present system of 'halal' labeling

Keep present system of 'halal' labeling The Indonesian Ulemas Council's (MUI) recent pullout from a team deliberating a government draft decree on the labeling of halal products caused deep apprehension among Moslems. Tini Hadad of the Indonesian Consumers Organization (YLKI) talked to The Jakarta Post about the topic. Question: How do you see the problem? Answer: I support MUI's decision.

RI ranks world's worst for religious disharmony

RI ranks world's worst for religious disharmony JAKARTA (JP): Indonesia has been rated the worst in the world in terms of religious intolerance and persecution, the Indonesian Church Community (PGI) executives announced Wednesday. The community's chairman Soelarso Sopater and Secretary- General J.M. Pattiasina briefed the media on Wednesday about the results of the recent World Churches Council (WCC) congress in Harare, Zimbabwe.

Beauty of mind, not body, begets appeal

Beauty of mind, not body, begets appeal By Yogita Tahil Ramani JAKARTA (JP): Many women would likely reject the idea that today's woman is incapable of handling everything alone. But the director of the Indonesian franchisee of The Body Shop, Suzy Hutomo, psychologist Niniek L. Karim and editor of Aura women's tabloid Arswendo Atmowiloto beg to differ. In a seminar last week, each conveyed that women, like all people, need help in meeting the different demands of life.

Can bankruptcy law solve debt problem?

Can bankruptcy law solve debt problem? The new bankruptcy law, introduced in August to replace an antiquated law from the Dutch colonial period, was designed to help resolve the private sector's enormous debt problems. Will it be an effective means to reach this target? Or is there any other way to overcome the debt problem? This is the topic addressed by Charles Himawan, a law professor at the University of Indonesia. JAKARTA (JP): Bankruptcy law or bankruptcy of law?

U.S. supports both national, UN inquiries on Timor bloodshed

U.S. supports both national, UN inquiries on Timor bloodshed Agencies Washington The United States on Wednesday welcomed creation of a joint Indonesia-East Timor commission on the 1999 bloodshed in the former Portuguese colony, but made clear the necessity of a separate UN inquiry as well. U.S.

Thai-RI relations in 1999-2000

Thai-RI relations in 1999-2000 On the auspicious occasion of the 50th Anniversary of Thai- Indonesian diplomatic relations, on Nov. 25, 1999, on behalf of the Indonesian Government, Dr. I Gede Ngurah Anom, Director- General for Culture handed over, to the Thai Ambassador, two portraits of Their Majesties the King and Queen, which were among the masterpieces painted in 1961 by the late renowned Indonesian artist, Raden Basuki Abdullah.

Koizumi scores well on N. Korea, faces test on Iraq

Koizumi scores well on N. Korea, faces test on Iraq Linda Sieg, Reuters, Tokyo A foreign policy novice who once summed up his diplomatic platform in a single sentence, Japanese Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi surprised his critics with a high-risk, high-return strategy toward North Korea. But Koizumi faces an even tougher diplomatic test if and when the United States launches an attack on Iraq.

Distribution of Q2 2026 Social Assistance Accelerated: Here's How to Check Recipients

Indonesia's Ministry of Social Affairs is accelerating the distribution of social assistance for the second quarter of 2026, covering April to June, to ensure timely aid to vulnerable families through programmes like Sembako (BPNT) and Family Hope (PKH). This initiative includes earlier data updates from the Central Statistics Agency and coordination with the Finance Ministry for smooth disbursements via state banks and Pos Indonesia. Beneficiaries can verify their status online via the official Kemensos website or app using their ID number, with aid amounts varying by category such as pregnant women, children, students, and the elderly.

Public hearings need to be taken seriously

Public hearings need to be taken seriously A two-day public hearing on forest management starts in Jakarta today. Arief Budiman takes a close look at this unprecedented event. SALATIGA, Central Java (JP): Former environment and population minister Emil Salim said over the weekend that a public hearing on forest management will be held in Jakarta today and tomorrow. The public hearing is part of the ongoing Second Conference of the Word Commission on forestry and sustainable Development.

President talks tough on separatists

President talks tough on separatists JAKARTA (JP): President Abdurrahman Wahid warned here on Thursday that any attempt to break away from the republic would be dealt with "accordingly". "Paying close attention to developments in several regions in Indonesia, I would like to convey that (people) should not attempt to proclaim independence from the unitary state of the Republic of Indonesia as what has been planned in Irian Jaya or Aceh," Abdurrahman said in a nationally televised address.

Government Appreciates Police for Identifying Suspect in Acid Attack on Andrie Yunus

The Indonesian government, through the Government Communication Agency, has commended the National Police for swiftly identifying suspects in the acid attack on KontraS activist Andrie Yunus, emphasising the importance of evidence-based law enforcement. The Military Police Centre has also detained four military personnel suspected of involvement, highlighting the authorities' professional response to maintain public trust. The government reaffirms its commitment to transparent and accountable legal processes, ensuring that violence against citizens is not tolerated and democratic spaces remain protected.

Jakarta predicted 5th most populous world city by 2015

Jakarta predicted 5th most populous world city by 2015 By T. Sima Gunawan ISTANBUL, Turkey (JP): The United Nations predicts that Jakarta, today home to more than nine million people, will be the fifth most populous city in the world by 2015, with a population of 21.2 million. Tokyo, Japan will top the list with 28.7 million people, followed by Bombay, India (27.4 million), Lagos, Nigeria (24.4 million) and Shanghai, China (23.4 million).

Zelensky Laments US Too Often Pressures Ukraine, Not Russia

Munich - Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed hope that US-mediated peace negotiations with Russia next week would yield results. He feels Kyiv is too often asked to make concessions and urged his allies to provide “clear security guarantees.” As reported by Al Jazeera on Sunday (2/15/2026), Zelensky made the remarks at the annual Munich Security Conference on Saturday (2/14).

The benefits of bilingual education

The benefits of bilingual education Rachel Davies, Sydney Many parents in Jakarta, and other major cities of Indonesia, are working and thinking hard on and about their children's education. Almost inevitably this means that the topic of English comes to their minds, as they recognize, firstly, that their children need English for their future careers and, secondly, that many schools now have English not just as a foreign language to learn but also as a language of instruction.

Vietnam braces for flight cuts from April after China and Thailand ban jet fuel exports

Vietnam's aviation industry faces potential flight reductions from April following export bans on jet fuel by China and Thailand in response to the Iran conflict, with Vietnam dependent on these countries for over 60 per cent of its jet fuel imports. The Civil Aviation Authority has instructed airlines to prepare for possible domestic route cuts and warned that domestic refineries cannot increase production due to pressure to prioritise other oil products, whilst soaring fuel prices are simultaneously rendering many routes unprofitable. Vietnam's government has engaged in diplomatic efforts with both China and Thailand to address energy security concerns and ensure continued fuel supplies.

Wild and loony japanese hair trendiness

Wild and loony japanese hair trendiness Evi Mariani The Jakarta Post/Jakarta This year, there has been a new hair trend that suits many kinds of people. It is called the "swing hair style", which has a free movement and textured cut, but the final result still has an air of elegance. The style is not bound by hair length, but inspired by the beautiful shape and sway movement of models sashaying down the catwalk.

Free expression should not require a permit

Free expression should not require a permit By Aswab Mahasin JAKARTA (JP): It was shocking to learn that Dr. Robert Hefner, an American anthropologist from the Boston University, was questioned on Monday for six hours by the Jakarta police. The questioning began at 10 p.m., right after he gave a presentation, at a seminar, on Islam, democracy and strategic elites in Indonesia, which has been a common academic topic recently.

But why does she remain unmarried?

But why does she remain unmarried? JAKARTA (JP): With each annual visit to my grandmother's house, I am reminded how hard it is to be a single woman in Indonesia. Whenever I visit, my relatives would not stop asking: "Do you have a boyfriend?" or "When are you going to get married, like cousin X?" My private love life seems to raise curiosity and concern among my relatives, particularly the female ones. They believe there must be "something wrong" with me.

Say cheese, please, you just made history

Say cheese, please, you just made history As Americans were in the throes of their July 4th celebrations, 125 million Indonesian voters took a Neil Armstrong-like "giant leap for mankind" by voting for the first time in a direct presidential election. It was a bit ironic that Indonesia's landmark election should fall right after independence day of the world's greatest democracy.

Open letter to Mr. Camdessus

Open letter to Mr. Camdessus When you gave your media conference in Jakarta on Jan. 15, you expressed great elation and satisfaction with the letter of intent submitted by our government. Attaching great importance to the document, it was signed beyond normal international usage by no less than the President of our country.

Farida's birds reflect the life of human beings

Farida's birds reflect the life of human beings JAKARTA (JP): Birds are usually associated with peace, freedom and love. Their existence as so-called social creatures can be seen from the way they live in groups. It is this topic that has been brought to the stage by noted choreographer Farida Oetojo for the Third Art Summit Indonesia 2001 International Festival on Contemporary Performing Arts.

Marsinah still controversial, even in art

Marsinah still controversial, even in art By A. Wisnuhardana YOGYAKARTA (JP): For a state with a coercive apparatus, Marsinah, a worker who died a few years ago because she had fought for her rights, has remained a "pebble in its boot". However small, it is a sharp pebble that keeps prodding the foot. During her life, Marsinah was a fighter for herself and her colleagues, poor workers in a stifling factory.

JK Rallies Former Ambassadors to Push Prabowo to Withdraw Indonesia from Board of Peace

Former Vice President Jusuf Kalla convened former ambassadors and senior diplomats to urge President Prabowo Subianto to withdraw Indonesia from the Board of Peace (BoP), established by US President Donald Trump to address the Gaza situation. The group cited unclear mission objectives, unbalanced representation, and the lack of proper UN mechanisms and risk evaluation for Indonesia's deployment of 8,000 troops to Gaza. They recommend that Indonesia pursue Palestinian advocacy through collective action with the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and the Non-Aligned Movement instead.

Australia raids Indonesians' homes in anti-terrorist crackdown

Australia raids Indonesians' homes in anti-terrorist crackdown Agencies Sydney/Jakarta Heavily-armed Australian federal agents raided homes of Indonesian Muslims on Wednesday in a nationwide hunt for members of an Islamic radical group held responsible for the Oct. 12 bombing in Bali, AFP reported. Indonesia quickly expressed its concern over the raid, which was part of a crackdown on possible Jamaah Islamiyah (JI) members operating in Australia.

Indodax calls for standardisation for crypto asset influencers

Indodax CEO William Sutanto has highlighted the vital role of influencers in educating the public and fostering positive perceptions of crypto assets in Indonesia, while stressing the need for clear standards and stricter oversight to combat misinformation and anonymous negative campaigns. Speaking at the Crypto Literacy Month (BLK) 2026 event, he emphasised that without proper regulation, the crypto ecosystem risks harm from unaccountable accounts, urging authorities to implement measures that protect the public and maintain industry integrity. The initiative, organised by the Indonesian Blockchain Association and OJK, aims to enhance crypto literacy through inclusive programmes involving influencers, academics, and law enforcement to drive sustainable digital transformation.

Moment of truth for agriculture at WTO

Moment of truth for agriculture at WTO By Martin Parry SYDNEY (AFP): Liberalizing agricultural trade will be the hot topic for the Cairns Group of exporters in a new round of global trade talks beginning this month, but analysts question the likelihood of any breakthrough. Agriculture has been one of the thorniest issues in the preparations for a meeting of trade ministers in Seattle, Washington, from Nov. 30 to Dec. 3 to launch a new round of global free trade talks.

State Secretary Chairs Meeting with Multiple Ministers at Defence Ministry

Several cabinet ministers of the Red-White Cabinet convened at the Defence Ministry in Central Jakarta on Tuesday, 17 March 2026, chaired by State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi to follow up on President Prabowo Subianto's directives from a previous meeting at Hambalang, Bogor on 8 March. The meeting discussed implementation of presidential orders covering Middle East developments, construction of ten new science and technology campuses, quality improvements in state universities, an educational programme for Palestinian students, and preparations for the Eid holiday exodus.

The dark tunnel of justice

The dark tunnel of justice By Charles Himawan JAKARTA (JP): Hitherto many people believed Indonesia lacked the resources immediately to revamp its law enforcement, because this would involve a long chain, from the police to the prosecutors and finally to the judges. With all these people involved, such a process opens the door wide for corruption, collusion and nepotism. Right now the best thing is to start with law enforcement in the narrowest sense of the word, i.e.

Spotlight on ABRI's roles

Spotlight on ABRI's roles JAKARTA (JP): Armed Forces (ABRI) Chief Gen. Wiranto warned on Tuesday that certain parties have been exploiting the issue of the military's sociopolitical role to gain popularity. Wiranto told Antara that ABRI's decision to scale down its political role should not be stretched to cutting its role to the bare minimum. "Many people have condemned ABRI without giving it a chance to thoroughly explain the various problems in hand.

Learning from the Amsal Sitepu Case, Menekraf: Creativity Cannot Have Its Price Locked

Indonesian Minister of Creative Economy Teuku Riefky Harsya has emphasised that creative works cannot be valued with a uniform pricing approach due to varying factors such as location, experience level, and job risks, drawing lessons from the recent acquittal of videographer Amsal Sitepu in a markup allegation case. The government is developing guidelines for creative economy services to better understand the economic value of creative outputs without stifling industry flexibility, involving stakeholders like professional associations and academics. This initiative aims to foster a healthier ecosystem for the creative sector by promoting fair recognition of creativity's worth.

Trump Claims US-Iran Ready to End War, Sends 15-Point Peace Plan to Tehran

US President Donald Trump has claimed that negotiations with Iran are underway, with Washington sending a 15-point plan to end the war via Pakistan, despite Tehran's denials of direct talks. Trump highlighted preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons as the top priority and noted involvement from key officials like JD Vance and Marco Rubio, while military operations continue alongside diplomatic efforts. Regional leaders, including Pakistan's Prime Minister, are offering to facilitate discussions, underscoring the fragile push for peace amid ongoing conflict.

From Tapos to Bali

From Tapos to Bali The business gathering in Bali over the weekend was very similar to the one at President Soeharto's Tapos cattle ranch in West Java more than five years ago. The central topic of discussions at the two meetings was the steep inequality in income distribution and asset ownership. The participants, the owners of the largest business groups which account for about 70 percent of the country's economic activity in the private sector, were almost the same. Only the format differed.

Foreign medics 'free to examine Pakpahan'

Foreign medics 'free to examine Pakpahan' By Kornelius Purba VANCOUVER, Canada (JP): Indonesian President Soeharto told United States President Bill Clinton on Monday that Indonesia would not object to foreign doctors examining jailed labor leader Muchtar Pakpahan. Responding to Clinton's inquiry, Soeharto said foreign physicians were free to come and examine Pakpahan but an Indonesian doctor would have to be present.

Experts divided over maximum mercury levels in human blood

Experts divided over maximum mercury levels in human blood Dewi Santoso and Sari P. Setiogi, Jakarta The health scare in Pantai Buyat village in Minahasa, North Sulawesi, has raised the issue of mercury contamination, a topic over which experts differ when discussing safe levels in the human body.

Prabowo Subianto Urges Japanese Company Leaders to Strengthen Downstream Investment

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto met with executives from 13 major Japanese corporations in Tokyo to bolster economic partnerships, focusing on industrial downstreaming to enhance Indonesia's position in global supply chains and create high-value jobs. The discussions emphasised expanding investments in sectors like automotive, energy, and pharmaceuticals, building on prior commitments exceeding Rp 380 trillion, while addressing the acceleration of battery electric vehicle adoption using domestic resources. Prabowo highlighted the need for Japan to shift more aggressively towards electric vehicles, with Toyota affirming its commitment to multi-pathway technologies aligned with Indonesian policies.

Photography turns fashion into art

Photography turns fashion into art Mehru Jaffer, Contributor, Jakarta Visions 01 is not just an exhibition, but a heady cocktail of beautiful faces, amazing outfits and some of the most bewildering of backgrounds. All this and more can be found in different exhibits composed by creative photographers, whose work brings to life a new dimension of the concept of art.

Genk vs Dinamo Zagreb Preview: An Uphill Battle for Plavi at Cegeka Arena

Belgian side Genk appears poised to advance to the Europa League round of 16, holding a 3-1 lead over Dinamo Zagreb heading into the second leg. Dinamo faces an uphill battle, missing key players and struggling defensively in away matches. Genk is heavily favored to win the home leg and secure their spot in the next round.

Bahlil Urges Upper Middle Class Not to Switch to Subsidised Fuel

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has urged the upper middle class and officials not to switch to subsidised fuel following recent price hikes on non-subsidised variants, emphasising that subsidies are intended for those in genuine need. He highlighted the government's commitment to monitoring distribution to ensure it reaches the rightful recipients, while noting potential future adjustments to non-subsidised fuel prices based on global oil fluctuations. This comes after Pertamina raised prices for premium fuels like Pertamax Turbo, Dexlite, and Pertamina Dex, though subsidised options such as Pertalite and Biosolar remain unchanged.

Back to Campus, Back to Learning

As students return to university campuses following the Eid al-Fitr holiday, the article highlights the rapid advancements in AI, particularly 'vibe coding,' which allows developers to describe software needs in everyday language for AI to implement, shifting the role of engineers from coders to orchestrators. This transformation extends across professions like content creation, data analysis, and design, emphasising the need for critical oversight to mitigate risks such as security vulnerabilities. Universities, exemplified by Universitas Amikom Yogyakarta, play a crucial role in preparing students through structured curricula to become proficient AI collaborators, fostering continuous learning in an ever-evolving technological landscape.

Myanmar junta offers condolences to Suu Kyi

Myanmar junta offers condolences to Suu Kyi YANGON (Agencies): Myanmar's ruling junta on Sunday offered its "sincere condolences" to opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi over the death of her husband. The junta said it would allow Aung San Suu Kyi to return to England to attend the funeral of Michael Aris.

East Asia forum seeks community beyond borders

East Asia forum seeks community beyond borders Endy M. Bayuni, The Jakarta Post, Kuala Lumpur The inaugural East Asia Summit concluded here on Wednesday with 16 leaders vowing to work towards building a community that is defined by their shared strategic, geopolitical and economic interests rather than strictly by geography. "The East Asia Summit was a success.

Election speeches to be screened

Election speeches to be screened JAKARTA (JP): All election campaign broadcasts must be approved by the government before they go on air, according to electoral rules issued yesterday. The General Elections Institute, which will screen the speeches, was quick to stress this was not a form of censorship.

Grassroots excel in democracy

Grassroots excel in democracy Today is the first of a three-day of cooling-off period prior to Monday's legislative election. Jakartans and residents of other big cities across the country may heave a sigh of relieve. Gone is the noisy traffic congestion caused by carnivals of motorized party supporters. Gone is the scene of party supporters on motorbikes, wearing green, red, yellow, white or other party color on their T-shirts carrying party flags running the traffic lights.

Treating mystic believers

Treating mystic believers The People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) recently held discussions concerning a topic uncommon in any other country: old-style traditional mystic beliefs, or non-denominational faiths as they are called here. The debate was provoked by the United Development Party's demand that the country's mystical movements, which are popular mainly in Central Java, not be officially given a similar status as that of the five recognized religions.

ASEAN may press APEC on Hanoi entry, free trade

ASEAN may press APEC on Hanoi entry, free trade By Ajoy Sen SINGAPORE (Reuter): ASEAN countries are likely to press the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) group to admit Vietnam, liberalize trade and improve infrastructure in southeast Asia at the APEC summit this month, economists say.

Indonesian debt team to meet creditors in Tokyo

Indonesian debt team to meet creditors in Tokyo JAKARTA (JP): The government-appointed private offshore debt team and international creditor banks will meet in Tokyo on May 7-10 to discuss a broad agreement to restructure the country's huge private debt. Coordinating Minister for Economy, Finance and Industry Ginandjar Kartasasmita said yesterday he would attend the debt restructuring meeting during his visit to Japan next week.

Financial liberalization to top ASEAN meet

Financial liberalization to top ASEAN meet Martin Abbugao, Agence France-Presse, Singapore Southeast Asian finance ministers meeting here this week are expected to take stock of work done to liberalize the region's financial sector, seen as a cornerstone for an envisioned single ASEAN market, government sources said.

A start to stopping money laundering?

A start to stopping money laundering? Can the new regulation requiring banks to report any suspicious transactions help curb money laundering? Bank Indonesia senior deputy governor Anwar Nasution shares his views. Question: Bank Indonesia has issued Regulation No.3/2001 which requires banks to carefully scrutinize the source of their customers' money and to report any suspicious transactions.

Steaming up the airwaves with advice on you know what

Steaming up the airwaves with advice on you know what By I. Christianto JAKARTA (JP): The bashful among us are probably saying a private thank you to the media for its help in clearing up our questions about sex. People too embarrassed to openly talk about the subject can keep their identities secret in seeking advice from print media columns and radio talk shows.

Rupert Murdoch enters Indonesian TV industry

Rupert Murdoch enters Indonesian TV industry Ignatius Haryanto, Jakarta After weeks of rumors among journalists, the media and business communities, finally at the end of September, there was confirmation, that News Corporation, through its wing in Hong Kong, bought 20 percent of shares in ANTV, a local private television station, which is owned by the Bakrie family. Aburizal Bakrie is the coordinating minister for the economy.

Regional, bilateral pacts could block global trade talks

Regional, bilateral pacts could block global trade talks Agence France-Presse, Bandar Seri Begawan Asia-Pacific business leaders, experts and economic officials began a meeting here on Tuesday amid fears that bilateral and regional pacts could impede efforts toward a more liberalized global trading regime.

Tariff deadlock said not to affect ASEAN free trade

Tariff deadlock said not to affect ASEAN free trade JAKARTA (JP): The insistence of Indonesia and the Philippines on pushing back the deadline for the reduction of tariffs on sensitive farm products will not damage the spirit of free trade in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), officials said yesterday.

Campaign rules stifle debate

Campaign rules stifle debate By Sirikit Syah JAKARTA (JP): Campaign rules say that politicians cannot judge, belittle or disparage policies of the government, civil servants or Armed Forces staff. This makes it hard for campaigners to win votes by talking on clean government, anticorruption or political reform, which are key election issues. An United Development Party (PPP) speaker was stumped when a member of the party's radio campaign audience asked yesterday about collusion.

SE Asia to give limited backing to APEC trade plans

SE Asia to give limited backing to APEC trade plans SINGAPORE (AFP): Southeast Asia is expected to give only limited support to trade and market liberalization proposals at an upcoming APEC summit as the region recovers from an economic slowdown. Malaysia and Indonesia have said they are against plans for early discussions on a new round of talks to free global trade, a key topic at the meeting of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum in Auckland.

House votes to question President

House votes to question President JAKARTA (JP): The House of Representatives overwhelmingly approved on Thursday an interpellation motion to question President Abdurrahman Wahid over the recent dismissal of two of his economic ministers. Preceded by a fierce debate, House members voted 332 to 63 to support the interpellation proposal in an open vote.

Village Head in Klaten Detained by Prosecutors in Alleged Mosque Renovation Corruption Case

The village head of Semangkak, Klaten Tengah district, Central Java, ND, and a contractor, NM, have been detained by Klaten District Prosecutors' Office investigators over alleged corruption in the renovation of Al Huda Mosque using county APBD funds. This case builds on the prior arrest of village official SW, with state losses estimated at Rp 203 million from a total project value of Rp 336 million after tax deductions for rehabilitations in 2021-2023. The suspects face charges under the Criminal Code and Anti-Corruption Law for misusing funds not aligned with the approved budget, highlighting ongoing issues with public fund management at the local level.

Netflix acquires Ben Affleck-founded AI-based film startup InterPositive

Netflix has reportedly acquired InterPositive, a Los Angeles-based AI startup founded by Ben Affleck that develops AI tools for filmmakers. All 16 employees will join Netflix, with Affleck serving as a senior adviser; the company plans to offer InterPositive’s technology to Netflix’s creative partners rather than selling it commercially. The acquisition follows Netflix’s withdrawal from a bid for Warner Bros. Discovery’s studio and streaming business, marking a rare external tech purchase for the streamer.

Casemiro Reportedly Set to Join AC Milan for Reunion with Luka Modric

Manchester United midfielder Casemiro is reportedly a prime target for AC Milan ahead of the upcoming summer transfer window. The Brazilian player will be a free agent after Manchester United decided not to extend his contract, which expires at the end of the 2025/2026 season. AC Milan aims to reunite Casemiro with his former Real Madrid teammate, Luka Modric.

Considering turning RI into federal state

Considering turning RI into federal state Menuju Republik Indonesia Serikat (Toward Federal Republic of Indonesia); Y.B. Mangunwijaya; Gramedia Pustaka Utama, Jakarta, 1998; xiii + 265 pp JAKARTA (JP): For 32 years, Soeharto with his New Order regime successfully sanctified the unity of Indonesia, the third tenet in the state ideology Pancasila. To question it was taboo.

Pandemic Drives Technology Adoption, Investments in This Sector Promising

The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated digital technology adoption in Indonesia, boosting the growth of tech startups and making the sector highly attractive for investments, as evidenced by recent IPOs like that of Ultra Voucher. Industry experts highlight the potential for significant expansion, with strategies including regional partnerships and service transformations, while emphasising the importance of understanding business fundamentals for investors. Telkomsel's ongoing investments underscore the resilience of the tech sector, contributing to Indonesia's economic surplus and the emergence of new unicorns despite global challenges.

SE Asians dispute antiterror accord with United States

SE Asians dispute antiterror accord with United States Patrick McDowell, Associated Press, Bandar Seri Begawan Southeast Asian diplomats said on Friday they hope to reverse perceptions the region is a launchpad for terrorist attacks, but Indonesia and Vietnam raised objections to a proposed anti-terror accord with the United States.

SE Asian currencies await cues from G7

SE Asian currencies await cues from G7 SINGAPORE (AFP): Southeast Asian currencies are expected to trade cautiously this week while awaiting cues from the world financial jamboree in Hong Kong and political developments in Thailand and the Philippines, analysts said.

Wife and Two Children of Drug Kingpin, Ex-Bima City Police Chief's Supplier, Arrested for Drug Money Laundering

Indonesian police have arrested the wife and two children of notorious drug lord Erwin Iskandar, alias Ko Erwin, on charges of money laundering linked to narcotics trafficking. Ko Erwin, who supplied drugs to former Bima City Police Chief AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro, was himself captured while attempting to flee to Malaysia. The arrests, conducted in West Nusa Tenggara, highlight ongoing efforts to dismantle drug networks and address corruption within law enforcement.