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Found 580,739 articles

Pertamina Calls for ASEAN Collaboration to Accelerate Regional Power Grid Integration

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

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

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

Tokyo Film Festival Jury Shares Its Approach Before Judging Begins

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Expert Panel Selects Recipients of the 2026 DPD RI Awards

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

One Data in the Spirit of the Youth Pledge

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

IEA: Cutting Methane Could Unlock Additional Gas Supplies in ASEAN

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

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

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

Colorectal Cancer in Children Rises Sharply: Symptoms to Watch For

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

Profile: Gandung Pardiman, Yogyakarta MP Who Died Today

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Major Companies Behind Indonesia’s Gas Exports to Singapore

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

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

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

Jogja MP Gandung Pardiman Dies Aged 73

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

Police and Communications Ministry join forces to secure digital space

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bahlil to Investigate Palm Oil Plantations Suspected of Illegal Mining

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kia Carens EV Pre-orders Open

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

The Official Who Lost Secret State Documents on a Train

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Indonesia Says No Airports Closed Despite Wildfire Disruptions

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

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

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

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

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

BGN Chief Proposes Adding MBG Nutrition Education to School Curriculum

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

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

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

Forest and Land Fires and the Failure of Environmental Governance

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

Economist: AI Brings Economic Benefits Only to Its Creators

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

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

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

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

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

TelkomGroup Develops AI Infrastructure and a Platform for MSMEs

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

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

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

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

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

Task Force Shuts Down 11 Illegal Pawnshops in August–September

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Israeli Military Forcibly Displaces Thousands of Palestinians from the West Bank

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

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

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

Intelligence Exposes Secret Russian-Chinese Military Cooperation

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

KALLArona Raises Awareness of Nature at JFW 2027

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Welder Beaten Up by Three Students in Kupang; Workshop Vandalised

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

BNI Chief Explains Surge in Lending

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

House Continues Asset Forfeiture Bill Discussions with Students and Lawyers

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

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

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

Expert Calls for Geothermal Development to Be Further Optimised

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Rain Clouds Set to Increase Over Kalimantan and Sumatra

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

Antam Gold Prices Edge Up Today: Here Are the Details

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

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

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

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

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

Understanding Bowel Adhesions and Their Treatment

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

Minister: All Services We Provide Are Citizen-Centred

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

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

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

JCI Expected to Trade Sideways as Investors Await Fed Policy Direction

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

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

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

Pickup Loses Control on Ngurah Rai Bypass, Injuring Two

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Rupiah fluctuates amid mixed reports from the Middle East

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

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

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

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

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

OJK Blocks 11 Illegal Pawnshops: Here Is the List

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

PLN Group Wins Two 2026 Subroto Energy Awards

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

Biodiesel B50 Becomes Key to Indonesia’s Energy Independence

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Blessing of Bahasa Indonesia for the Indonesian Nation

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

Iran Seeks to Expand Energy Cooperation with Russia

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

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

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

BRI: Staged Buyback Reflects Confidence in Business Fundamentals

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

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

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

Young People as the Fulcrum of the Ummah’s Revival

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

Central Jakarta Police Give Aid to 48 Orphaned Children

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

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

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

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

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

IIF Provides Rp601.4 Billion in Financing for National Infrastructure

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

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

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

TelkomGroup Launches Sovereign Digital Technology Development

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

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

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

Three Main Reasons MUI Opposes Andrea Bocelli Concert in Indonesia

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

Russia declares ceasefire in Kherson for humanitarian operation

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

Registration Opens for National Internship Batch 3: Link and Requirements

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

BRI Optimistic That Its Fundamentals Will Support Long-term Growth

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

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

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

Labour regulations must be grounded in constitutional mandate, says minister

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

Consumers Urged to Check Drinking Water Quality Carefully

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

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

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

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

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

Warning: Heavy Rain Expected in Parts of Yogyakarta Today

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

BRI Insurance Promotes Insurance Literacy among MSME Operators in Pematangsiantar

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

Indonesia reviews Anti-Corruption Law to align with UNCAC

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

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

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

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

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

Pertamina Assures Safe Fuel Distribution to North Sulawesi’s Islands

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Rupiah Opens Weaker as US Dollar Strengthens to Rp18,120

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

Strawberry and Banana Juice: What Are Its Health Benefits?

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

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

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

Pertamina Urges ASEAN Oil and Gas Giants to Strengthen Upstream Sector

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

JCI Opens 0.28% Lower

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

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

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

Andrea Bocelli Concert Ticket Advertisements Still Circulating

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fire on MT Haryono Causes Congestion from Cawang Towards Pancoran

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

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

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

Pramono Offers to Help Build Transjabodetabek Bus Stops in Bekasi

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

Fukushima nuclear wastewater discharge enters its 25th round

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

Danantara reports 18.4% growth in SOE net profit

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Popular stories: Nataru airfares cut and campaign to grow chillies

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

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

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

JCI Closes 1.2% Lower: Five Stocks to Watch Today

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

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

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

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

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

Family Warmth Amid the Rain in Tokyo

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

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

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

Bahlil Reconsiders Electricity Exports to Neighbouring Countries, Citing Domestic Demand

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Doohan says Adelaide circuit will be a fantastic venue

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

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

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

Crocodile That Attacked Selviana Cut Open; Its Legs Dismembered

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

Garda Prabowo Praises Malaysia FWCMS System Rejection

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

Caring for Surabaya, preventing a moral disaster

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Yusril Proposes Classifying Under-Invoicing and Illegal Fishing as Corruption

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

On Breueh Island, Shopping Parcels Arrive with the Waves

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

US and Canada Discuss Cutting Tariffs on Steel and Automotive Imports

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

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

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

Mangoes are more than just sweet: five health benefits

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Are Medical Masks Effective at Protecting You from Haze?

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

AI Agents Access Customer Accounts, Alarming Major Banks

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

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

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

Mobile Driving Licence Services Available at Five Jakarta Locations on Tuesday

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

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

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

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

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

Pezeshkian Says Iran Will Act Within the NPT Framework

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

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

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

Discarded Cigarette Butt Suspected of Causing Land Fire on Tidung Island

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Viral Social Media Claims BPJS Health Will Be Abolished

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

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

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

Economists’ Perceptions: Business Environment Worsens, Companies Under Pressure

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

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

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

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

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

Can a Regular Worship Routine Help the Body Relax?

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

Prayer may benefit mental health: what the evidence says

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Wild Animals Preying on Livestock Have Terrorised Gunungkidul for Nine Years

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

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

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

Pertamina Strengthens Used Cooking Oil Processing into Sustainable Aviation Fuel

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

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

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

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

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

Six Killed in Syria After Jordanian Retaliatory Strikes over Church Attack

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

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

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

Israeli Researchers Unravel Mystery of King Solomon’s Kingdom

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

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

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

BMKG Forecasts Light Rain Across Most of Indonesia on Tuesday

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Golkar’s Doli Opposes Forming KPU Selection Committee Now

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Producer Yulia Evina Joins Tokyo International Film Festival Jury

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

Singapore launches five-year plan to meet electricity demand

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

Gold Prices Begin to Recover, but Traders Remain Cautious

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

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

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

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

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

More Than 500 Injured in France’s Yellow Vest Protests

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

Saudi Arabia to Arrange Crude Oil Storage in Singapore

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Crime round-up: Kampung Ambon raided and motorbike theft

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

Yusril Urges Under-Invoicing to Be Classified as Corruption

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

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

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

Indonesia to build crude oil storage for direct imports

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

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

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

BMKG Forecasts Rain in Parts of Jakarta on Tuesday

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Magnitude 4.7 Earthquake Hits Doi Island in North Maluku

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Brazil Rejects the Far Right

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

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

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

BREAKING NEWS: Iran Ready to Join Makkah Pact

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Government prepares Rp722 billion air ticket stimulus for year-end

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

UN Report Details Israeli Crimes in Gaza and the West Bank

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

President Calls for Stronger Research and Industry Collaboration

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

Commentary: Trump needs partners to tackle China’s overcapacity

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

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

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

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

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

Jordanian Military Strikes Militant Group in Syria Over Church Shooting

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Man Seriously Injured in Crocodile Attack While Fishing at Pandeglang Estuary

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

Education Minister Extends PIP to 888,000 Kindergarten Pupils

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

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

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

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

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

West Jakarta captures 1.19 tonnes of suckermouth catfish in 2026

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Malaysia says it will seek an explanation from Myanmar over reports that around 300 refugees repatriated from Malaysia have been detained. The issue comes amid the return of 10,000 Myanmar refugees since January 2026 and concerns over the safety of refugees in their country of origin.

GPS-tracked stolen motorbike recovered as suspect escapes police chase

Police recovered a motorbike stolen in West Jakarta after tracking its GPS signal to Muara Baru fish auction market, but the suspect escaped during a pursuit. Police said the victim had also reported a similar incident five months earlier, and urged residents to secure vehicles and use additional locks.

Religious Affairs Ministry Urges Muslims to Pray for Rain Amid Wildfires and Drought

Indonesia’s Religious Affairs Ministry has issued guidance encouraging Muslims in drought- and wildfire-affected areas to perform the Istisqa prayer, while also taking practical steps to conserve water and protect the environment. The appeal comes as six provinces report 1,593 hotspots, 10,781 hectares burned in the past 24 hours and air quality ranging from hazardous to very unhealthy.

MSCI Concerns Prompt Indonesia to Strengthen Market Transparency

Indonesia is accelerating capital-market reforms after MSCI raised concerns about transparency and governance at the Indonesia Stock Exchange, including ownership disclosure and free-float information. Experts say the country has until June 2027 to address the concerns and strengthen investor confidence, which cannot be measured by gains in the Jakarta Composite Index alone.

Working Together Relentlessly, tvOne Promotes a Culture of Innovation for a Developed Indonesia

At the fifth 2026 Innovation for Nation-Building Awards, tvOne business director Maria Goretti Limi urged public- and private-sector recipients to keep working together and innovating to advance Indonesia’s competitiveness. She said the awards, now in their fifth series since launching in 2023, recognise practical solutions and aim to inspire transformation ahead of Indonesia’s Golden Indonesia 2045 vision.

Kevin Julio: This Is What Daniel Would Say If He Met Biru Laut Today

Kevin Julio imagines that Daniel Tumbuan would most miss the friendship and everyday moments he shared with Biru Laut, while Reza Rahadian says Laut would express gratitude for the support and affection of those close to him. The film adaptation of Leila S. Chudori’s novel, directed by Yosep Anggi Noen, is scheduled to open in cinemas on 29 October 2026, with its story of love, friendship and concern for the country aimed at resonating with young audiences.

Komnas HAM urges platform companies to share social security contributions

Indonesia’s National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) has urged digital platform companies to share the cost of social security contributions for gig workers, citing weak bargaining power and limited access to protection. Its study found workers often put in more than 12 hours a day amid commission deductions of 20–80 per cent, and recommends cost-sharing for work-accident and health insurance contributions, alongside more adaptable social security policies.

Wiraraja Partners with US Investors on US$500 Million Project, Creating 1,000 Jobs

Wiraraja GESEIP has agreed to an initial US$500 million investment with US firms Tynergy Technology Group and Essence Global, with the project expected to create around 1,000 jobs in Batam. The partnership will focus on silica sand downstream processing and advanced manufacturing, including AI-powered smart factories, with potential expansion into semiconductors and sodium-ion battery assembly.

Dictionary.com Names ‘Maxxing’ Its Word of the Year for 2026

Dictionary.com has named “maxxing” its 2026 Word of the Year, reflecting an online culture focused on optimising different aspects of life. The flexible slang term, popular among Generation Z and Generation Alpha, appears in contexts ranging from fitness and wellbeing to artificial intelligence and politics.

Police: Bobotoh Supporter Killed in Pakansari Machete Attack

Police say a 16-year-old Persib supporter from Bogor was fatally attacked with a machete while travelling home after a match at Pakansari Stadium. A suspect was arrested within 24 hours and faces charges carrying a maximum sentence of 15 years; investigators are still examining witness accounts and the circumstances of the attack.

Danantara Indonesia officially opens DTIIF 2026

Danantara Indonesia has opened the Danantara Technology Innovation Investment Forum (DTIIF) 2026 in Jakarta, running from 26 to 28 October. The event brings together more than 1,500 participants and aims to connect national industrial priorities with global technology, expertise and long-term capital, focusing on six sectors including energy, agriculture, semiconductors, infrastructure, digital technology and finance.

Seven Indonesian Crew Members Freed After 1.16 Tonnes of Ketamine Seized; Taiwanese National Sole Suspect

Indonesian police have released seven Indonesian crew members detained after a vessel carrying 1.16 tonnes of ketamine was intercepted off North Sumatra, citing a lack of evidence that they knew about the drugs. A Taiwanese crew manager has been named as the sole suspect, and investigators are tracing the ketamine’s origin.

Andra Soni Teams Up with Banten Prosecutors to Strengthen Rules on Overloaded Trucks

Banten Governor Andra Soni has enlisted the provincial High Prosecutor’s Office to help establish a sound legal framework for regulating trucks that exceed permitted dimensions and loads (ODOL). The cooperation is intended to support effective enforcement while ensuring regional policies comply with legislation and promote accountable government.

Law Minister Asks Legislation Directorate to Assess Implications of Military Courts Law Revision

Law Minister Supratman Andi Agtas has asked the Directorate General of Legislation to analyse the legal consequences of a Constitutional Court ruling requiring amendments to the Military Courts Law within two years. The ruling says the changes must clarify the jurisdiction of military and civilian courts over offences by soldiers, establish full integration of the military courts under a single judicial system, and address combat courts and procedural law.

Dhiraj Kelly, Smartin and UHAMKA Launch Investment Club

Dhiraj Kelly’s financial education platform, Smartin, has partnered with Universitas Muhammadiyah Prof. DR. HAMKA (UHAMKA) to establish an Investment Club for students. The programme will teach personal finance, capital-market instruments and investment risk, while helping protect young people from fraudulent schemes and encouraging informed financial independence.

Police Investigate Suspected Stray Bullet at East Jakarta Car Showroom

Police are investigating after a projectile was found near a damaged car at a showroom in Cibubur, East Jakarta. Officers have inspected the scene, questioned witnesses and secured the projectile as evidence; its origin has not yet been established.

Gorontalo Orphanage Manager Reported to Police over Alleged Sexual Abuse of Four Student Children

A manager of an orphanage in Gorontalo has been reported to police over alleged sexual abuse of four children in his care, all of whom are students and under 17. Lawyers say the children were moved to a safe house amid concerns about intimidation, while police investigate allegations said to date back to 2024.

Komnas HAM Urges Wider Protection for Gig Workers Beyond Ride-Hailing

Komnas HAM is urging the government and parliament to extend protections to gig workers outside online transport, saying millions of workers lack adequate access to social security and other safeguards. It also recommends transparent, fair oversight of platform algorithms and stronger complaint and appeal mechanisms for workers affected by automated decisions.

111 Senior High and Vocational Schools in West Jakarta to Take 2026 Main Academic Competency Test

A total of 111 public and private senior high and vocational schools in West Jakarta’s Education Sub-Office Region 2 are taking the 2026 main Academic Competency Test (TKA) in two sessions. The national-standardised assessment is intended to provide an objective measure of students’ academic achievement, and its certificate may support applications to state universities or entry into the workforce.

Singapore and Malaysia Renew Energy Cooperation Pact

Singapore’s Energy Market Authority and Malaysia’s Energy Commission have renewed their memorandum of understanding to deepen bilateral cooperation in the energy sector. The agreement broadens collaboration on electricity and gas systems, cross-border power trade, renewable energy certificates, solar power and energy storage, supporting regional connectivity and investment in renewable energy projects.

Indonesian Stocks Look Cheap, with Some Trading Below Four Times Earnings: Are They Attractive?

The Jakarta Composite Index has fallen 37.86% year to date, bringing its price-to-earnings ratio to around 11 times, while several listed companies trade at much lower multiples. Analysts say low PE ratios can help identify potential opportunities, but are not buy signals on their own: investors should assess earnings durability, cash flow, business risks and the possibility of a value trap.

39 Freight Train Carriages Derail in Russia’s Sverdlovsk Region

Thirty-nine freight carriages derailed near Yekaterinburg, with seven tank cars catching fire and disrupting rail traffic. No casualties were reported; emergency crews contained the blaze, while investigators and forensic specialists arrived at the scene.

US Ready to Discuss Geopolitical, Energy and Trade Crises at G20

The United States plans to discuss geopolitical crises and their effects on global energy and trade with G20 partners at a foreign ministers’ meeting in Atlanta. The talks are intended to lay the groundwork for the G20 leaders’ summit in Miami in December 2026, which Moscow says it will attend.

Timeline of the Murder of a Mother and Child in Madiun: CCTV Footage Traces Suspect’s Movements Before the Killings

Police say a missing-person investigation led them to suspect that a woman’s informal husband killed her and her four-year-old child in a Madiun hotel. The suspect has been arrested, while investigators continue to establish the sequence of events, determine the motive and search for the victims’ missing body parts.

Innovative policy

Indonesia’s economic growth has remained at around 5 per cent for five years despite infrastructure investment, anti-corruption efforts and improved business conditions. The article urges the government to provide consistent, coordinated policies that encourage investment, while addressing longer-term challenges through market-relevant education, a clear industrialisation strategy and stronger non-commodity exports.

Barcelona to Be Without Xavi Espart for Seven Weeks with Injury

Barcelona will be without 19-year-old defender Xavi Espart for around seven weeks after he suffered a right ankle injury during the 2-1 El Clasico defeat by Real Madrid. The academy graduate could miss nine matches, including fixtures against Atletico Madrid and Champions League opponents Aston Villa and Manchester City, further depleting Hansi Flick’s defensive options.

Minister urges faster industrialisation to escape middle-income trap

Minister Brian said Indonesia must accelerate industrialisation and reverse deindustrialisation to make the most of the period before its demographic dividend is expected to close around 2045. He also called for stronger industry-university research partnerships and more STEM graduates, arguing these steps are essential to innovation and the country’s economic development.

Prabowo Scheduled to Launch Roof-Tile Programme in Majalengka on 8 November

President Prabowo Subianto has been invited to launch a roof-tile programme in Majalengka, West Java, on 8 November. Housing Minister Maruarar Sirait said 34 small and medium-sized enterprises whose products have passed Indonesian National Standard (SNI) testing have prepared 2.4 million clay tiles, to be transported by 600 lorries.

JFW 2027 Seeks to Make Jakarta a Global Fashion Hub

Jakarta Fashion Week is positioning Jakarta as a global fashion hub under the theme “City of New Lights”, with plans to strengthen regional partnerships and cultural exchange. Its chair says education and nurturing new talent are also central to the industry’s future.

Indonesia's Sekolah Rakyat projects employ 97,000 workers

Indonesia’s second-phase Sekolah Rakyat construction programme spans 100 sites in 32 provinces and has employed 97,000 local workers. The government says the projects are also supporting local economies while expanding tuition-free education access for children from poor households.

Forestry Minister Says Government Responsible for Tackling Forest and Land Fires in South Sumatra

Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni said central and regional governments are responsible for managing forest and land fires in South Sumatra, with support including funding and firefighting equipment. The government has allocated Rp200 billion in presidential assistance across 15 local governments, alongside weather-modification operations and other response measures.

ESDM prepares rules to accelerate exploration of 67 frontier basins

Indonesia’s Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry is drafting new rules to encourage exploration in 67 frontier basins, where activity has so far been limited. The framework may offer more flexible investment terms, including production-sharing arrangements, bonuses and firm commitments, tailored to the risks of each area.

Teenage Football Supporter Hacked to Death; Machete Thrown into Drain

Police in Bogor have arrested and detained a man suspected of fatally attacking 16-year-old football supporter ARK with a sickle-shaped machete as he travelled home from a match at Pakansari Stadium. Investigators say the suspect threw the weapon into a roadside drain before fleeing and was arrested in Karadenan within 24 hours.

Mystery Surrounds Death of TNI Officer Second Lieutenant Jihad Ahmad at Central Java Weapons Depot as Kopassus Reveals Surprising Facts

Kopassus says Second Lieutenant Jihad Ahmad died in an accidental pistol discharge at an arms depot, rejecting social media claims that he was shot. CCTV footage is expected to help establish the circumstances, and the case is being referred to Surakarta Military Police for investigation.

Kopassus Denies Second Lieutenant Ahmad Was Shot Dead at Weapons Store

A Kopassus officer, Second Lieutenant Jihad Ahmad Al Rasyid, died at an arms store in Sukoharjo, Central Java, on 24 October. Kopassus says the death resulted from an accidental pistol discharge caused by negligence, not a deliberate shooting, and that military police will investigate the case.

Bank Indonesia monitors rupiah amid market volatility and oil surge

Bank Indonesia Governor Destry Damayanti said the central bank is monitoring daily supply and demand dynamics behind the rupiah’s movements, with no changes planned to its intervention strategy as volatility remains within typical market ranges. The rupiah weakened 0.30 per cent to Rp18,135 per US dollar amid Middle East tensions that have driven Brent crude prices to their highest level since late April.

Indonesia Foils Illegal Gold Exports Worth Rp61.95 Billion

Customs seized 25.88 kilograms of gold worth around Rp61.95 billion at five international airports in October 2026, with most suspects reportedly foreign nationals trying to take the gold abroad. The agency said it is strengthening intelligence-led enforcement and working with other law-enforcement and airport authorities to curb the illegal movement of natural resources; those apprehended and the gold are being held for legal proceedings.

Dwi Bagus Arrested over Madiun Murder of Unmarried Partner and Her Child; Bodies Allegedly Burnt and Ground Up

East Java police have arrested Dwi Bagus, suspected of killing his unmarried partner and her four-year-old son in Madiun. Investigators allege he burnt and ground their bodies in an attempt to destroy evidence, while the suspected motive is a domestic dispute; police are still searching for bone fragments and investigating the case.

Central Kalimantan Worst Hit, with 3,392 Hectares Still Affected by Forest and Land Fires

Forest and land fires have burned 3,392 hectares across three provinces in Kalimantan, with Central Kalimantan accounting for 2,458 hectares, according to BNPB. Authorities have deployed more than 57,000 ground personnel and 61 aircraft to tackle fires across priority areas in Kalimantan and Sumatra.

Sido Muncul Director Wins Tatler Impact Award for Taking Jamu Global

Irwan Hidayat, director of Indonesian herbal medicine company Sido Muncul, has received a Tatler Impact Award recognising his role in expanding jamu into international markets and the company’s social and environmental contributions. The award also reflects Sido Muncul’s investment in scientific research, pharmaceutical-standard production and compliance, alongside its Sido Herbalpedia platform to broaden access to evidence-based information on medicinal plants.

Dian Sastro Wanted Kinan to Appear in the Short Film ‘Laut Bercerita’

Dian Sastrowardoyo said she had wanted the character Kinan to appear in the earlier short-film version of ‘Laut Bercerita’, but budget constraints and its minimalist visual approach ruled this out. The feature film’s development drew on Leila S Chudori’s novel and screenplay, as well as discussions with activists whose experiences informed the story.

The Family Desired by the Quran: What Should an Ideal Child Be Like?

The article describes the Quranic ideal of a child through the example of the Prophet Ibrahim, who remained respectful and dutiful towards his hostile father. It highlights his gentle response to threats and rejection as a model of filial conduct, even in difficult family relationships.

Finance minister outlines five pillars for Indonesia’s growth

Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara said Indonesia’s path to becoming a high-income, developed nation rests on investment in human capital and infrastructure, stronger governance, structural reform, and social and macroeconomic stability. He called for public spending and private investment to be aligned, including through blended financing and the adoption of environmental, social and governance standards.

Indonesia Cannot Rely on State Budget Alone, Finance Minister Says

Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara said the State Budget represents only about 14 to 15 per cent of Indonesia’s GDP, with households and businesses responsible for much of the remaining economic activity. He called for coordinated action across the economy and said government spending should generate a strong multiplier effect, while the State Budget and Danantara work together to support development.

Bulog Chief: Auction of 380,000 Tonnes of Downgraded Rice to Prioritise MSMEs

Bulog will auction 380,000 tonnes of rice that has deteriorated in quality, prioritising Indonesian micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) through nationwide sales. The rice is intended for processing into flour, helping prevent losses from spoilage, provide businesses with cheaper raw materials and potentially ease rising flour prices.

Maria Goretti Limi Explains Why tvOne Is Holding the 2026 Innovation for Building the Nation Awards

tvOne’s acting chief executive, Maria Goretti Limi, says the awards are intended to encourage regional and central government bodies and private companies to develop and collaborate on innovations. The fifth annual edition, launched in 2023, recognises initiatives ranging from public services and digital education to sustainability; the source lists only part of its award categories.

After Seeing Waste Cooking Oil Turned into Sustainable Aviation Fuel, Gibran Calls for Community Empowerment

Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka visited Pertamina Patra Niaga’s Cilacap refinery to see how used cooking oil is processed into sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), and said the programme should also create economic opportunities for local communities. Pertamina said it is commercially producing co-processed SAF and is developing local collection channels through three waste banks and a collection point in Kutawaru.

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Makes Surprise Visit to People’s School in Cikarang

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya made an unannounced evening visit to an integrated People’s School in Cikarang to observe students’ daily lives and hear their stories. He said the Prabowo administration had established 265 People’s Schools in its first two years, offering more than 45,000 street children the chance to return to education.

1.16 Tonnes of Ketamine Seized in Smuggling Bust; Taiwanese National Named Suspect

Indonesia’s National Police have named a Taiwanese national, identified by the initials YCY, as a suspect in the alleged sea-borne smuggling of 1.16 tonnes of ketamine hydrochloride off North Sumatra. Seven Indonesians detained during the operation have been released, while investigators continue examining YCY’s alleged role.

Indonesia’s central and regional governments share responsibility for South Sumatra forest fires

Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni said the central and regional governments are jointly responsible for managing forest and land fires in South Sumatra, including by funding response efforts and supplying equipment. The central government has disbursed Rp200 billion in presidential assistance to local administrations, alongside support such as firefighting equipment and weather-modification operations.

Central Java Provincial Government Strengthens Collaboration to Address Cilacap Residents’ Concerns

Central Java’s provincial government says it will work with local and central authorities to address concerns raised during Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s visit to Cilacap. Issues include fishermen’s access to fuel and silted shipping channels, the collection of used cooking oil for sustainable aviation fuel, and land matters raised by a local community of believers.

Destry: Indonesia Must Return to Industry and Move Deeper into Global Supply Chains

Bank Indonesia Governor Destry Damayanti called for renewed industrialisation and deeper participation in global supply chains, with downstream processing helping Indonesia capture more value from its natural resources. Investment in downstream industries reached Rp480.1 trillion in January–September 2026, while Education Minister Brian Yuliarto urged faster industrial development and stronger collaboration between industry and universities on research and skills.

French President Warns of High Risk of Protests Next Saturday

Emmanuel Macron has warned that planned demonstrations will make next Saturday a high-risk day, with unions also calling for a nationwide mobilisation on 31 October. He acknowledged that security forces were under-resourced during protests on 17 October, defended the authorities’ response without declaring a state of emergency, and said the government would address the social movement’s demands.

Poverty in Mataram Falls, with 4,698 Residents Escaping Poverty

Statistics Indonesia (BPS) data show that the number of people living in poverty in Mataram fell by 4,698 in 2026, from 39,816 the previous year to 35,118. The city’s mayor attributed the decline to collective efforts across local and central government, although the poverty severity index rose, indicating widening spending disparities among poor residents.

Prabowo’s Policies Could Improve the Welfare of Small-Scale Fishers, with Fishing Villages and Cold Storage Seen as Key

Fishing groups and researchers say government initiatives, including the Kampung Nelayan Merah Putih programme and cold-storage facilities, could boost small-scale fishers’ productivity and incomes. They stress that sustained financing, protection of fishing grounds and infrastructure that allows fishers to participate throughout the supply chain will be essential for the programmes to deliver lasting benefits.

Wirasena Youth Camp 2026 Participants Praise Its Positive Inspiration

Participants in the Youth and Sports Ministry’s Wirasena Youth Camp 2026 say the programme has given them ideas to take back to their home regions, including community-based waste management. Visits to local initiatives, historic sites and educational projects also aimed to strengthen patriotism, environmental awareness and support for early childhood education.

Jakarta Information Commission Partners with BNSP and UI Certification Body to Improve Experts’ Competence

The Jakarta Information Commission is working with Indonesia’s National Professional Certification Agency (BNSP) and the University of Indonesia’s professional certification body to prepare its experts for competency certification. The initiative aims to strengthen professional capacity, with certification standards and assessment pathways tailored to the commission’s functions.

Pertagas Wins Five International Awards at the 2026 Asian Impact Awards for its Far-Reaching Social and Environmental Programmes

Pertagas has received five Platinum awards at the 2026 Asian Impact Awards in recognition of its social and environmental responsibility programmes, including four community initiatives and an award for its chief executive. The programmes support sustainable agriculture, village economies and environmental conservation, reflecting the energy infrastructure company’s commitment to community empowerment and Indonesia’s rural development goals.

Government assures rice supply is secure through next year amid El Niño

Agriculture Minister Amran Sulaiman says Indonesia’s rice supply is sufficient through July or August 2027, citing around 4.5 million tonnes in Bulog reserves alongside standing crops and stocks held by households and the hospitality sector. The government is also preparing measures such as water pumping, irrigation repairs and drought-tolerant seeds to sustain production amid El Niño risks and maintain rice self-sufficiency without imports.

Indonesia and Azerbaijan Strengthen Cooperation on Industrial Development and Strategic Investment

Indonesia and Azerbaijan are seeking to expand cooperation in energy, processing industries and infrastructure, with a focus on attracting investment and creating greater economic value. Indonesian officials said Azerbaijan’s investment in Indonesia remains limited, but bilateral cooperation could move beyond commodity trade through concrete industrial projects and stronger coordination between institutions and businesses.

Pertagas Provides Aid and Deploys Emergency Response Team in Palembang

Pertamina Gas (Pertagas) has supplied food, protective equipment and emergency-response support to help tackle forest and land fires in South Sumatra. The company says its efforts include assisting firefighters and smoke-affected residents while coordinating with government agencies and safeguarding gas infrastructure and supplies.

USD Denomination Does Not Guarantee Returns as Indonesian Equity Funds Plunge

USD-denominated mutual funds have delivered sharply different results in 2026: global equity funds gained, while funds holding Indonesian shares suffered the steepest losses, falling 28.22% year to date through September. Syailendra Capital says global exposure can diversify domestic market risk, but a fund’s performance still depends on its underlying assets, and investors should consider entering gradually amid market volatility.

KKP Partners with PLN to Meet Electricity Needs in Red and White Fishermen’s Villages

The Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) has partnered with state electricity company PLN to provide power and related support for Red and White Fishermen’s Village (KNMP) sites. Reliable electricity is intended to keep fisheries facilities operating and support coastal businesses, as the government plans to expand the programme from 100 villages built in 2025 to 1,269 locations in 2026.

Communications Minister Says Instagram, Threads and YouTube Pose High Risks to Children

Communications and Digital Affairs Minister Meutya Hafid says Indonesia classifies YouTube and Meta platforms, including Instagram and Threads, as high-risk for children, meaning they should not be used by children. The government is promoting regulations requiring platforms to assess and disclose their own age suitability, introduce age limits and implement age verification, while encouraging them to reduce risks to reach young users.

Wildfire in North Toraja Burns Hundreds of Coffins at Traditional Burial Site

A wildfire in North Toraja, South Sulawesi, spread to Liang Pongtimban, a traditional Torajan burial site in a rocky cliff area, and reportedly destroyed numerous burial caves and coffins. Local officials have reported the incident to police, who say they are processing the report and will investigate.

Operation Patuh Agung 2026 to Run for 14 Days, Here Is the Police Focus in Buleleng

Buleleng Police will conduct a 14-day traffic operation from 26 October to 8 November 2026, checking drivers’ documents and vehicle roadworthiness. Officers will target busy roads and public areas, with a focus on visible violations such as riding a motorbike without a helmet, in a bid to improve compliance and reduce crashes and their severity.

Kepri Police and Interpol Co-operate to Prevent Chemical Smuggling

The Riau Islands Regional Police and Interpol are working together under Operation CHASE to prevent and combat the smuggling of chemicals in border areas, including substances that could be used to make explosives or other dangerous materials. The operation will involve investigations into people, cargo and vehicles, supported by cross-border information sharing, as authorities warn that chemical smuggling may be linked to terrorism, narcotics offences and other crimes.

IDX shifts focus from stock suspensions to suspected market manipulation

The Indonesia Stock Exchange plans to rely less on Unusual Market Activity notices and suspensions of individual stocks, instead targeting securities accounts suspected of manipulation. The mechanism, expected to begin in early November 2026 following coordination with the Financial Services Authority, is intended to strengthen oversight while preserving market liquidity; the exchange will also disclose preliminary investigation notices and may restrict accounts and examine their brokers.

Zulhas says food supplies for year-end will be strengthened well in advance

Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan says the government is preparing logistics, distribution and food reserves early for Christmas 2026 and New Year 2027, which will be followed soon by Ramadan. The measures include rice assistance for 33.2 million beneficiary families and accelerated distribution of subsidised rice under the SPHP programme to help contain prices.

North Sumatra Governor backs creative villages and urban wards through KKSB programme

North Sumatra Governor Bobby Afif Nasution is backing local governments’ efforts to develop creative villages and urban wards through the 2026 Kampung Kreatif Sumut Berkah (KKSB) programme. The province has earmarked up to Rp50 billion in support, with shortlisted proposals including initiatives in Serdang Bedagai, Deli Serdang and Humbang Hasundutan aimed at turning local challenges and resources into economic opportunities.

Pezeshkian: Iran Is Ready to Cooperate Regionally and Resolve Differences

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said Tehran is ready to deepen regional cooperation and resolve differences, calling for greater unity among Muslim countries. Officials from Iran, Türkiye, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan began four-party talks in Tehran focused on regional security, Israel’s activities and developments in Palestine and Lebanon.

Danantara Targets up to Rp542 Trillion in Strategic Project Investment over the Next Three Years

Danantara plans to invest US$20 billion–US$30 billion (about Rp361 trillion–Rp542 trillion) in more than 40 priority industrial projects over the next two to three years, with minerals, advanced materials and semiconductors among its main priorities. Its portfolio spans energy, food and healthcare, infrastructure and digital technology, and the agency says the programme is intended to deepen domestic industrial capabilities and shift Indonesia away from exporting raw materials; national downstream investment reached Rp480 trillion in January–September 2026.

Indonesia leads major global research into nutrition-based TB prevention

The University of Indonesia is leading the PHOTON clinical trial, which will study whether nutritional interventions can prevent tuberculosis among household contacts of TB patients. With 78,400 participants in Indonesia and Tanzania, including more than 42,000 in Indonesia, the research aims to provide evidence for future prevention strategies and policy as Indonesia faces one of the world’s highest TB burdens.

Tourism Minister: Fashion Industry Plays a Role in Developing Quality Tourism

Tourism Minister Widiyanti Putri Wardhana says Indonesia’s fashion industry can help attract visitors and develop shopping tourism, supporting local businesses and spreading tourism’s economic benefits. She cited the sector’s contribution of more than Rp245 trillion to national GDP in 2025 and outlined regional fashion diplomacy initiatives, including a Southeast Asian fashion parade, as part of an ambition to make Jakarta the region’s fashion capital.

Developer Begins Handover of Homes at Parkland Podomoro Karawang

Agung Podomoro Land has begun symbolic handovers of homes at its Parkland Podomoro Karawang development, with the process expected to continue through the end of 2026. The project has also opened a residents’ clubhouse and is developing supporting infrastructure, while the anticipated boost to the local economy will depend on resident numbers, business activity and links to Karawang’s economic centres.

Unable to Travel by Road, 2,356 Free Nutritious Meal Packages Delivered by Boat to Outlying Villages

Indonesia’s Free Nutritious Meals programme is reaching eight island villages in South Halmahera, North Maluku, with 2,356 meal packages delivered daily by two boats. The service covers 27 schools and 242 pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers and young children, demonstrating how marine transport is enabling the programme to reach remote communities.

BMKG Monitors Air Quality to Mitigate Pollution and Forest-Fire Haze

Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) says weather and climate affect air quality and provides official forecasts to help people plan their activities. In collaboration with Jakarta’s environmental agency and the Bicara Udara foundation, it monitored air quality at the 2026 Jakarta Running Festival, while the foundation launched initiatives to educate runners and raise awareness of communities affected by pollution in Kalimantan and Sumatra.

Prosecutor Comments on Two Defence Witnesses in Businessman Extortion Case

Prosecutor Andri Saputra said two defence witnesses in the extortion and threats case against Bangun Paulus Tudungta had no direct knowledge of the allegations and offered testimony unrelated to the central issues. He described their accounts as subjective character references based on friendship, rather than evidence relevant to proving the alleged offences.

Danantara Targets 54 Strategic Partnerships at DTIIF 2026, Focusing on Six Priority Sectors

Danantara aims to secure 54 memoranda of understanding at its three-day technology and investment forum, bringing together universities, state-owned enterprises, technology firms and investors. The six priority sectors include energy, agriculture and healthcare, advanced materials, transport, finance and digital technology; the MoUs remain targets and do not in themselves guarantee investment or operational projects.

RI encourages Wamena coffee development through cooperatives

The Ministry of Cooperatives is encouraging coffee producers in Wamena, Jayawijaya, to organise through cooperatives to improve product quality, marketing and access to financing. The initiative could help local coffee and other regional products reach domestic and international markets while supporting sustainable economic activity in the Papua Highlands.

Bima Regency drafts roadmap for repairing damaged school infrastructure

Bima Regency in West Nusa Tenggara is developing a data-led roadmap to guide the staged repair and maintenance of damaged primary-school facilities. The plan, shaped with civil-society groups and academics, is intended to set priorities and coordinate government programmes, while supporting safer learning environments and improved education outcomes.

Energy Minister Probes Oil Palm Plantations Suspected of Mining

The Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry is monitoring and investigating oil palm plantations suspected of conducting mining operations, including several foreign companies. Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia stressed that firms must operate only within the scope of their government-issued permits, with enforcement teams examining possible violations.

Who Were Dini and Her Son, Murdered by Dwi Bagus in Madiun?

Dini Hardiyanti and her four-year-old son, Arshaka, were reported missing before police discovered they had been murdered in Madiun; Dini’s informal husband, Dwi Bagus, has been arrested. Family members and neighbours described Dini as kind and actively involved in her community, while her sister said the last contact came when Dini called to say she planned to celebrate her son’s birthday.

Danantara Expands Private Investment in Indonesia’s Strategic Projects

Danantara Indonesia is seeking greater private-sector participation in projects spanning waste-to-energy, aircraft financing and electric vehicles, balancing commercial returns with strategic impact. It expects 15–16 waste-to-energy projects to enter the tender stage by year-end and is pursuing partnerships to build capabilities in aviation finance and shale gas.

Teenage Football Supporter in Bogor Hacked to Death with Sickle; Suspect Named

Police in Bogor have arrested and detained an adult suspect less than 24 hours after the fatal attack on 16-year-old football supporter ARK. The teenager was attacked with a sickle while travelling home after a match at Pakansari Stadium; police said they seized the weapon and the victim’s clothing as evidence.

Bahlil Plans Crude Oil Storage to End Imports Transiting Through Other Countries: ‘Survival Mode’

Indonesia plans to build domestic crude oil storage so imported supplies can be shipped directly to the country, strengthening energy security amid geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. The government is also shifting procurement to a state public service agency and pursuing long-term supply contracts, while Bahlil says subsidised fuel prices will not rise.

Doctors in England to Strike Over Low Pay in November

Senior hospital consultants in England plan a 48-hour strike on 25 and 26 November, citing a lack of progress in negotiations with the government and an inadequate pay offer. The British Medical Association says the proposed 2.4% rise fails to keep pace with inflation for a third consecutive year, while high workloads and burnout are driving doctors to take stress leave or leave the profession.

Viral Video Shows Sleman Parking Attendant Chasing and Banging on Car Window Over Parking Fee

Police in Sleman have questioned a 23-year-old parking attendant after a viral video showed him pursuing a motorist and knocking on the car following a dispute over a parking fee. The motorist said the matter was resolved and would not be pursued further, while police are checking whether parking activity at the site was authorised.

Suspect Arrested Over Fatal Stabbing of Persib Supporter in Bogor; Suspect Is an Adult

Bogor police have arrested an adult suspect less than 24 hours after a teenage Persib Bandung supporter was fatally stabbed while travelling home from a match at Pakansari Stadium. Investigators say the victim was attacked with a sickle, and the suspect faces charges carrying a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison.

BI targets US$55 billion in local currency transactions in 2026

Bank Indonesia aims to raise local currency transaction (LCT) value to US$55 billion in 2026, from about US$25 billion last year, through partnerships with six to seven key trading partners. The initiative seeks to reduce reliance on the US dollar and ease pressure on the rupiah, while interest from Singapore and India and expanding QRIS adoption point to broader cross-border payment cooperation.

SKK Migas seeks to boost upstream oil and gas investment

SKK Migas is pursuing a more attractive and predictable investment climate for upstream oil and gas through competitive fiscal policies, improved licensing and working-area offers, and broader access to data and exploration. It is also advancing an unconventional hydrocarbons strategy to offset declining output from mature fields and reduce energy-import dependence, while inviting experienced companies and technology partners to participate.

OJK promotes the development of sharia mutual funds in Ciayumajakuning

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) is seeking to expand sharia mutual fund investment in the Ciayumajakuning region through financial education and improved access, including its Planned and Periodic Investment Programme (PINTAR). The region has about 34,000 sharia mutual fund investors with assets of Rp378 billion, while OJK says there remains significant scope to increase public participation.

Danantara Partners with Technology Firms as Prabowo Calls for Investment Barriers to Be Cut

President Prabowo Subianto is urging investment partnerships that turn research into technology, industrial productivity and skilled jobs, with Danantara connecting global companies, state-owned enterprises and research institutions. At a technology and investment forum in Jakarta, his representative also called for closer industry-research collaboration and simpler procedures for credible projects.

Iran seeks to ease impact of US sanctions by curbing inflation and expanding food subsidies

Iran says it will seek to contain inflation and expand electronic food vouchers to help households cope with mounting economic pressure from US and Western sanctions. The measures come amid currency depreciation, rising consumer prices and an IMF forecast of a 6.1 per cent contraction in 2026, alongside heightened conflict and disputes over sanctions relief.

SKK Migas seeks to boost upstream oil and gas investment

SKK Migas says Indonesia is pursuing more competitive fiscal terms, streamlined licensing and greater access to data to make upstream oil and gas investment more attractive and predictable. It is also promoting an exploration model based on open data and digital tools, while developing unconventional resources to offset declines at mature fields and reduce reliance on energy imports.

Danantara Sets Aside Rp200 Trillion to Reinvest State-Owned Enterprises’ Dividends

Danantara Asset Management plans to channel Rp200 trillion (about US$12 billion) in dividends from state-owned enterprises into new investments through Danantara Investment Management. The announcement comes alongside a Rp360 trillion net-profit target for 2026 and a major restructuring programme that Danantara says has reduced losses and will cut its portfolio to 250 companies.

Finance minister outlines five pillars for Indonesia’s growth

Finance Minister Nazara set out five priorities for sustaining Indonesia’s long-term growth: developing human capital, improving infrastructure, strengthening governance, pursuing structural reform and preserving social and macroeconomic stability. He said public spending and private investment should be aligned to advance these goals, particularly in education, healthcare and infrastructure.

National and Regional Figures Welcomed on the Blue Carpet at tvOne’s Inovasi Membangun Negeri 2026

tvOne’s Inovasi Membangun Negeri 2026 awards event recognised local governments, state-owned and private companies, and public figures for innovations supporting Indonesia’s development. Its five categories span public services, sustainable programmes, corporate social responsibility, product transformation and public leadership, with nominees including provincial and municipal governments, state firms and technology companies.

Danantara Delays State-Owned Airline Merger to Prioritise Garuda Indonesia Restructuring

Danantara has postponed plans to merge state-owned airlines, saying Garuda Indonesia and the other company involved must first achieve stronger financial and operational health. It is prioritising a comprehensive overhaul of Garuda’s services and customer experience, alongside possible rebranding, while retaining the airline’s name; the carrier reported higher first-half 2026 revenue and reduced losses, but passenger numbers fell in 2025.

Home Affairs Minister urges regions to grow chillies to safeguard supplies

Home Affairs Minister Muhammad Tito Karnavian has urged local governments and communities to expand chilli planting, after drought reduced production and chillies contributed to a rise in monthly inflation. The government sees community planting as a longer-term way to bolster local supplies and ease price pressures, while the National Food Agency says national stocks are adequate through year-end and is prioritising distribution to consumers.

Prabowo disburses Rp200 billion to tackle land fires in South Sumatra

President Prabowo Subianto has allocated Rp200 billion in assistance to South Sumatra’s provincial and local governments to combat forest and land fires, with the funding distributed in two phases. Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni said the funds must be spent transparently and exclusively on firefighting and mitigation, supplementing resources from the disaster agency, the Forestry Ministry and local budgets.

Healthy Living Opens Up Business Opportunities in the Wellness Industry

Growing interest in wellness is creating demand for home and commercial facilities such as swimming pools, saunas and steam rooms. PT Sinar Kapuas Sejahtera, the official distributor of Fluidra Indonesia, has opened a Jakarta showroom where customers can view products and seek advice on selecting solutions for their needs.

Man Beaten by Mob in West Bandung After Allegedly Using Fake Rp100,000 Note to Buy Cigarettes and Coffee

A 43-year-old man was detained in West Bandung after allegedly paying for coffee and cigarettes with a counterfeit Rp100,000 note and receiving Rp88,000 in genuine change. Police said the incident took place on Sunday afternoon and that the suspect was undergoing further questioning.

Pertamina Patra Niaga Strengthens Clean Energy Ecosystem by Turning Used Cooking Oil into Aviation Fuel

Pertamina Patra Niaga says its Cilacap refinery has entered commercial production of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) made partly from used cooking oil, producing about 11 million litres of co-processed SAF in October. The company is also building a community collection network that pays residents for used oil, linking waste management and local economic benefits with lower-carbon aviation fuel.

More than 500 people injured during Yellow Vest protests in France

French Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez said more than 500 people, including 267 law-enforcement officers, were injured during Yellow Vest demonstrations, while at least 1,435 people were detained. He defended partial curfews in some cities and described a separate attack in Trappes as racist terrorism.

Home Affairs Minister Says Crackdown on Middlemen Has Lowered Chicken and Egg Prices

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian says prices of chicken and eggs have begun to fall after the government moved to curb suspected middleman practices in the supply chain. Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman cited a sharp gap between farm-gate and consumer egg prices, while the government coordinates with law enforcement to address the alleged distribution irregularities.

Former Gowa Regent Husniah Seeks Suspension of Detention

The legal team for former Gowa Regent Sitti Husniah Talenrang plans to seek a suspension of her detention, citing her acute gastric illness, after she was detained in a corruption investigation. She is suspected of extortion, illicit levies, gratification and money laundering linked to building approvals and other permits in Gowa Regency; her lawyers are also considering a pre-trial challenge.

Selviana Killed in Crocodile Attack as Residents Urged to Reduce Activity on the Kodi River

The regent of South-west Sumba has urged residents to avoid or limit activities in areas known to be crocodile habitats after 24-year-old Selviana Ambu Kaka was killed while bathing in the Bondo Kodi River. Local authorities say residents know the danger but continue to use the river for washing, bathing and watering livestock; Selviana’s body was found the following morning.

Social Affairs Ministry and Police Join Forces on Disaster Response and Sekolah Rakyat

The Social Affairs Ministry is strengthening coordination with the Indonesian National Police and military to speed up disaster relief and support education and character-building at Sekolah Rakyat. Deputy Minister Agus Jabo Priyono said the partnership is particularly important for delivering aid to hard-to-reach areas and supporting social rehabilitation for victims of terrorism, human trafficking and drug abuse.

KNMP Could Reduce Fishers’ Dependence on Middlemen

The Kampung Nelayan Merah Putih (KNMP) programme could raise small-scale fishers’ incomes and stimulate coastal economies, but its success depends on sustained finance, protection of fishing grounds and stronger bargaining power. KNTI and a researcher say cold storage, improved logistics and appropriate technology could help fishers secure better prices and reduce reliance on middlemen.

Taiwanese National Named Suspect in Alleged 1.16-Tonne Ketamine Smuggling Case

Indonesia’s National Police have named a Taiwanese national, identified by the initials YCY, as a suspect in the alleged smuggling of 1.16 tonnes of ketamine hydrochloride aboard the MT Global 168 off Tanjung Balai Asahan, North Sumatra. Seven Indonesian nationals detained during the operation have been released.

Anggi Noen Chooses ‘This Earth of Mankind’, Dian Sastro Picks ‘Child of All Nations’

Director Yosep Anggi Noen says the first novel in Pramoedya Ananta Toer’s Buru Quartet explores identity and the struggle to understand oneself. Dian Sastrowardoyo recommends the second book, highlighting Minke’s growing awareness of social inequality and the lives of ordinary people, while actress Yunita Siregar says she has yet to finish the series.

Danantara Allocates Rp200 Trillion in SOE Dividends for Investment

Danantara Indonesia plans to channel Rp200 trillion in state-owned enterprise dividends into new investments through Danantara Investment Management, with the funds managed by Danantara Asset Management. The announcement comes amid a sweeping restructuring of 1,074 SOE companies, a target to reduce the portfolio to 250 entities, and a 2026 net profit target of Rp360 trillion.

Indonesia seeks Asian partners to build semiconductor ecosystem

Indonesia’s National Development Planning Minister Rachmat Pambudy called for Asian countries to collaborate in building a semiconductor ecosystem that extends beyond assembly and supports shared growth. He said the effort requires a skilled STEM workforce, stronger research and innovation, and greater value added from Indonesia’s natural resources to boost competitiveness and help the country escape the middle-income trap.

Bapanas Says Feed Corn Subsidy Allocation Rises Eightfold to Address Price Anomalies

Indonesia’s National Food Agency (Bapanas) says the allocation for its subsidised feed-corn programme will reach 391,900 tonnes in 2026, nearly eight times the 2025 allocation, to support poultry farmers and address unusual gaps between farm-gate and consumer prices. The government also says domestic feed-corn supplies are sufficient and is investigating suspected middlemen’s role as chicken and egg prices ease.

BI plans to use QRIS data for MSME credit scoring

Bank Indonesia plans to use QRIS transaction data to help assess the creditworthiness of small merchants, widening their access to finance. QRIS had 70.6 million users and 49.4 million merchants in the third quarter of 2026, while transactions grew 75.8 per cent year on year; BI also highlighted strong growth in its BI-FAST payment system.

Yusril Says Definition of State Finances Needs Clarification

Coordinating Minister Yusril Ihza Mahendra says the definition of state finances needs to be clarified to provide legal certainty, particularly over whether losses at state-owned enterprises can constitute corruption. The issue forms part of a review to align Indonesia’s anti-corruption laws with the UN Convention against Corruption, while President Prabowo Subianto maintains that state losses remain an important element in fighting corruption.

Persib Urges Authorities to Thoroughly Investigate Bobotoh’s Death in Bogor

Persib Bandung has called on law enforcement to conduct a comprehensive, professional and transparent investigation into the death of supporter Arief Rahman Kusuma in Bogor. The club has offered condolences and support to his family, while urging supporters to remain calm and avoid retaliation as the legal process proceeds.

Houthi Attacks Escalate Again, Targeting Saudi Oil Pipeline and Riyadh Airport

Yemen’s Houthi group claimed it attacked Saudi Arabia’s East-West oil pipeline, facilities and King Khalid International Airport, but Riyadh has not confirmed the claims. The reported attacks heighten risks to critical energy infrastructure and global oil distribution as Saudi-led forces intensify operations and regional tensions threaten a long-standing UN-mediated truce.

OSS Records 95 Investment Projects and Issues 60 Business Identification Numbers in Sabang

Sabang recorded 95 investment projects in the Online Single Submission (OSS) system and issued 60 Business Identification Numbers (NIBs) between January and August 2026, with registrations reportedly rising year on year, particularly in trade and services. The figures reflect licensing activity rather than confirmed operational businesses or realised investment, and further information on project status, value and on-the-ground implementation is needed to assess their economic impact.

Ketamine Smuggling Syndicate Duped Retired Crew Members, Claiming They Were Carrying Oil

A joint police, narcotics agency and customs operation intercepted 1.16 tonnes of ketamine aboard the tanker MT Global 168 off North Sumatra. Investigators say a Taiwanese man has been named as the sole suspect, while seven Indonesian crew members were unaware of the drugs and had been recruited as replacement crew to transport oil.

Latest Condition of Blok M Ride-Hailing Driver Run Over by Drowsy BYD Driver

A ride-hailing driver run over in a chain collision in South Jakarta has undergone surgery and remains under observation, with his breathing still supported by a tube. Police have named the BYD driver a suspect, saying he admitted to being drowsy and distracted; investigators are also examining whether the vehicle’s accelerator or brakes malfunctioned.

Erick: Clashes Between Supporters to Be Dealt with Firmly Under the Law

PSSI chairman Erick Thohir says the football association is coordinating with police to ensure clashes between supporters are handled firmly under the law, with sanctions imposed according to the nature and severity of any misconduct. His comments follow an alleged knife attack on two fans returning from a match at Pakansari Stadium, and he stressed that supporter safety must be paramount.

Operation Sikat Semeru 2026: Malang Police Uncover 273 Cases and Arrest 129 Suspects

Malang Police say they uncovered 273 criminal cases and arrested 129 suspects during a 12-day operation, far exceeding the 10 cases initially designated as targets. Theft offences dominated the results, and police urged residents to strengthen home and vehicle security and report suspected crimes through the 24-hour emergency line.

Yusril Explains UNCAC’s Definition of Corruption to President Prabowo

Coordinating Minister Yusril Ihza Mahendra told President Prabowo that the UN Convention against Corruption covers a range of offences beyond bribery, while leaving each signatory to define corruption in its own national law. Prabowo has requested a deeper study to align Indonesia’s legislation with the convention, including the treatment of state losses, separated state assets and practices such as export under-invoicing and illegal fishing.

Oil Rig Sinks at Sea, Killing One Worker and Leaving Four Missing

Borr Drilling’s Prospector 5 rig sank off Gabon during preloading, killing one worker and leaving several others missing; reports differ over whether four or five people remain unaccounted for. Gabon has launched search-and-rescue operations and a technical investigation, while nearby production has been suspended and authorities say no pollution has been detected.

Majalengka Allocates Rp 13 Billion for Pumping and Piped Irrigation to Tackle Dry Fields

Majalengka Regency is allocating more than Rp 13 billion for pumping and piped irrigation systems at around 80 locations, aimed at improving water access for farmers during the dry season. The assistance is intended to raise the cropping index towards three harvests a year, while complementary canal works have reportedly expanded harvested land in drought-prone areas.

Indonesia’s E50 bioethanol programme to require 320 new plants, minister says

Indonesia needs 320 ethanol plants, each with a capacity of 60,000 kilolitres, to support its planned E50 bioethanol blend and reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels, Energy Minister Yuliarto said. The phased programme is scheduled to begin with E10 in 2027 and rise to E20 in 2028, using domestic crops such as sugarcane, cassava and corn while seeking to redirect up to US$50 billion in annual energy import spending to local industries.

Indonesia Seeks SOE–Private Sector Synergy to Escape Middle-Income Trap

ADBI chief Bambang Brodjonegoro says Indonesia should combine private-sector investment with the strength of state-owned enterprises to accelerate industrialisation and escape the middle-income trap. Drawing lessons from Japan, South Korea and China, he urges consistent regulation, industrial financing and infrastructure, and proposes pilot projects to improve supplier competitiveness, shared facilities and engineering capabilities.

A youth master plan to address Indonesia’s future challenges

Youth and Sports Minister Erick Thohir says a national youth master plan is being developed to prepare young people for global shifts in geopolitics, the economy, technology and the environment. The plan is to involve youth from across Indonesia and align central and regional policies, while the government says it has cut the number of regulations from 191 to four.

Italian Taxi Drivers Protest Rising Fuel Prices

Taxi drivers and private-hire operators staged a protest outside Italy’s Transport Ministry in Rome over soaring fuel costs, warning that a strike remains possible. They are seeking greater tax relief as operating costs have risen by 25–30 per cent; the government has also allocated emergency support and will discuss wider transport-sector pressures, while Italy seeks temporary EU aid for farmers.

MP: Academic Tests in Areas Hit by Forest and Land Fires Must Prioritise Safety

A deputy chair of the House Commission X has urged the government to put students’ health and safety first when administering academic tests in areas affected by forest and land fires. The Education Ministry has arranged separate test dates for areas where smoke makes it unsafe for students to sit the assessment, while the MP called for accessible make-up arrangements and proportionate use of the results.

Zulhas Outlines KDKMP’s Two Main Roles for Rural Communities

Food Affairs Coordinating Minister Zulkifli Hasan says Merah Putih village and urban-ward cooperatives (KDKMP) should both deliver public services, including distributing subsidised goods to eligible residents, and buy local people’s produce as offtakers. With 10,070 of 28,787 cooperatives now operating, the government plans weekly reviews and closer coordination to address supply and operational-cost problems and ensure the cooperatives benefit local communities.

Netanyahu Could Be Ousted as Four Rivals Vie for Israel’s Premiership Tomorrow

Benjamin Netanyahu faces a closely contested parliamentary election, the first since the Hamas-led attacks of 7 October 2023, but neither his bloc nor the opposition has a clear path to forming a government. Four prominent challengers are seeking to end his political dominance, while ultra-Orthodox and Arab parties, alongside smaller factions, could prove decisive in coalition negotiations.

Two Dead and One Rescued After Fishing Boat Is Hit by Waves off Merak

A fishing boat carrying three people capsized after being struck by waves near Tempurung Island, off Merak in Banten. Two men died and one survived after a passenger ferry and local fishing boats helped with the rescue; authorities urged seafarers to monitor bad weather and carry safety equipment.

Government Strategy to Boost Local Tourism and Economic Potential

PLN is supporting the development of Candirejo Pesona Garda tourism village in Central Java by training local tourism managers and helping prepare the site for a provincial rafting competition. The initiative aims to improve safety and service quality while enabling inclusive, sustainable growth in the local economy.

Shopping Centres Become Promotional Spaces for Local Creative Products

Lippo Malls Indonesia’s Styles AsikFest 2026 brought local businesses and creative communities together with consumers, while providing a platform to promote home-grown products. The Ministry of Creative Economy launched its Creative by Indonesia programme at the event, aimed at strengthening the identity and competitiveness of Indonesian creative products and intellectual property in domestic and global markets.

How to Check Whether Your BPJS Kesehatan Membership Is Active on Your Phone

BPJS Kesehatan members can check whether their health coverage is active through the Mobile JKN app, WhatsApp PANDAWA and the Care Center 165, without visiting an office. The guide also explains how to follow up on inactive status, verify registered healthcare facilities and understand the referral pathway for non-emergency care.

Central Java Government Backs AI Data Centre Project in Batang, Expects Economic Growth to Rise

Central Java’s provincial government says it supports plans for a 240-megawatt AI data centre at the Batang Integrated Industrial Estate, arguing the project could boost growth, employment and digital skills. However, the project remains under study, and Deputy Governor Taj Yasin said the assessment must be completed before the government can plan for possible public concerns.

Children of PNM Mekaar Clients Shine at MEA 2026

Three young entrepreneurs from families receiving PNM scholarships won the Demo Day Madani Entrepreneurship Academy 2026 in Malang. The programme trained 50 participants and selected 10 finalists, highlighting how targeted mentoring can help young people from lower-income households develop business ideas, including products made from reused materials.

Motorcycle Veers Off Course, Man Falls into River and Dies in Denpasar

A 22-year-old man from Southwest Sumba was found dead in a river in West Denpasar after his motorcycle apparently lost control and plunged into the water. Police said he died at the scene, and his body and motorcycle were recovered; damage to the vehicle was estimated at Rp500,000.

Skilled Workers Key to the Competitiveness of Indonesia’s Logistics Industry

A skilled workforce is essential to improving efficiency, safety and competitiveness across Indonesia’s logistics sector, alongside infrastructure, vehicles and digital systems. The article highlights how expertise in warehouse and fleet management, safe handling and operational procedures can reduce errors and costs while supporting reliable supply chains.

Pertamina Says ASCOPE Forum Could Accelerate Methane Emissions Cuts

Pertamina says the 51st ASEAN Council on Petroleum (ASCOPE) forum could help speed up methane-emissions reduction in the oil and gas sector through stronger national policies and cross-border knowledge-sharing. The article highlights methane mitigation’s potential to improve gas supply security, alongside the need for coordinated action across ASEAN’s energy, agriculture and waste sectors.

Five Companies Record Rp69.25 Billion in Foreign Investment in Sabang

Five companies have recorded foreign investment totalling approximately Rp69.26 billion in Sabang, according to data from the Sabang Free Trade Zone and Free Port Management Agency (BPKS). PT Lumba-lumba Pulau Weh accounted for the largest amount, at about Rp29 billion; the figures are recorded investment values and do not necessarily represent realised investment or its economic impact.

Minister: One in Two Indonesian Children Aged 13–17 Has Experienced Violence

Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection Minister Arifah Fauzi says a 2024 survey found that one in two Indonesians aged 13–17 had experienced violence at some point, while one in three had experienced it in the previous year. The survey identified physical violence, often perpetrated by peers, and emotional abuse as key concerns; the ministry recorded 12,644 reports of violence against women and children between January and September 2026.

Polls Place Golkar in Top Three as AMPG Urges Cadres to Step Up Community Work

Two polls put Golkar in third place among political parties ahead of the 2029 election, with support above 10 per cent. The party’s youth wing says continued social outreach and stronger grassroots organisation are essential to building support and meeting its goal of increasing its parliamentary seats.

ASCOPE Seeks to Maximise Southeast Asia’s Upstream Oil and Gas Potential

The ASEAN Council on Petroleum (ASCOPE) is promoting regional cooperation, data-sharing and exchange of expertise to improve the performance of upstream oil and gas assets throughout their life cycles. At its 2026 forum in Bali, speakers also stressed that developing the energy workforce is essential to sustaining the sector and strengthening energy resilience.