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Li denounces Japan's fear of China's strength

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

Among active ancestors at Candi Sukuh in C. Java

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

KDM's Idea on Toll Roads in West Java: Is It Difficult to Implement?

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has proposed replacing the Motor Vehicle Tax with a digital toll road system, known as electronic road pricing, to fairly charge users based on road usage intensity amid the rising adoption of electric vehicles. Transportation expert Ki Darmaningtyas argues that implementation would be challenging due to difficulties in identifying non-tax-paying vehicles and the need for robust registration systems managed by police traffic corps. He emphasises that vehicle taxes serve not only to fund roads but also to compensate for environmental pollution, highlighting potential hurdles in enforcement and equity.

APEC wants economic gaps closed

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

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

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

'Krismon', 'Krismom' or 'supermom'

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

The Listening Post

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

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

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

ARF opens with informal dinner

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

Will Tommy ever face the music?

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

TV Today: Friday, December 20, 2002

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

PDI-P considers entering VP fray

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

Philippine peso may fall vs rupiah on oil surge

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

Raw Material Prices Surge, Cosmetic Prices Predicted to Rise

The Indonesian cosmetics industry is facing significant challenges due to rising import costs for raw materials, a weakening rupiah, and sharp increases in plastic packaging prices, which could drive up consumer prices by 8-11% in the coming quarters. Industry leaders highlight that 80-85% of ingredients are imported, exacerbating the impact of the exchange rate hitting Rp17,400 per US dollar, alongside surging industrial fuel costs. Despite abundant local resources like basil extract and patchouli, upstream development remains underdeveloped, limiting opportunities to reduce import dependency.

City administration told to focus on stability, security

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

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

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

Limit presidential term after Soeharto: Siswono

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

IT projects help reduce poverty through education

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

Mideast crisis may cloud IPU meeting

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

Asian ministers prepare Asia-Europe summit

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

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

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

Children of all sizes need healthy diet

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

On the Shelves

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

On the Shelves

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

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

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

Ageless aunts and tactless taunts

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

Time for soul searching

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

Terrorism, trade to top APEC summit in Thailand

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

Violence increases in Aceh as peace process in danger

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

Nurcholish must share his thoughts with the world

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

Keep present system of 'halal' labeling

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

RI ranks world's worst for religious disharmony

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

Beauty of mind, not body, begets appeal

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

Can bankruptcy law solve debt problem?

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

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

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

Thai-RI relations in 1999-2000

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

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

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

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

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

Public hearings need to be taken seriously

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

President talks tough on separatists

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

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

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

Trial of Corruption Suspect in K3 Case: Non-Technical Funds Referred to as "Tokens of Gratitude"

In a Jakarta court trial, defendant Hery Sutanto described "tokens of gratitude" as euphemisms for illicit funds extorted from companies seeking Occupational Safety and Health (K3) certifications, with amounts ranging from Rp20 million to Rp40 million. Former Deputy Minister of Manpower Immanuel Ebenezer and other officials are accused of collectively extorting Rp6.5 billion since 2021 through inflated certification fees and non-technical "appreciations" via PJK3 firms. This case highlights entrenched corruption practices within Indonesia's Ministry of Manpower, charged under anti-corruption laws.

Jakarta predicted 5th most populous world city by 2015

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

Zelensky Laments US Too Often Pressures Ukraine, Not Russia

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

Controversy Surrounding MPR Quiz Competition: Judges and Host Suspended, Event Under Full Review

The People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) has apologised for irregularities in the judging of the 2026 Four Pillars Quiz Competition in West Kalimantan, leading to the deactivation of the jury and host amid public outcry over inconsistent scoring. The incident involved differing marks for similar answers on the selection process of State Audit Agency members, prompting a comprehensive evaluation of the event's technical aspects to ensure future fairness and transparency. This controversy highlights the importance of upholding sportsmanship and objectivity in educational initiatives aimed at fostering national values among Indonesian youth.

The benefits of bilingual education

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

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

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

Wild and loony japanese hair trendiness

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

Free expression should not require a permit

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

But why does she remain unmarried?

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

Say cheese, please, you just made history

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

Open letter to Mr. Camdessus

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

Farida's birds reflect the life of human beings

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

Marsinah still controversial, even in art

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

ASEAN Summit Held Today in the Philippines: What Will Prabowo and Co. Discuss?

The 48th ASEAN Summit commenced in the Philippines with leaders from Southeast Asian nations, including Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, addressing pressing issues amid the Middle East conflict, such as fuel shortages, rising food prices, and the safety of migrant workers. Discussions also cover Myanmar's junta-led elections and potential reintegration into ASEAN, alongside ongoing negotiations for a Code of Conduct in the South China Sea to manage territorial disputes with China. This gathering underscores ASEAN's efforts to foster regional cooperation on economic stability, security, and diplomatic engagement despite lacking binding mechanisms.

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

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

Australia raids Indonesians' homes in anti-terrorist crackdown

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

Indodax calls for standardisation for crypto asset influencers

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

Moment of truth for agriculture at WTO

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

State Secretary Chairs Meeting with Multiple Ministers at Defence Ministry

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

The dark tunnel of justice

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

Spotlight on ABRI's roles

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

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

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

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

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

From Tapos to Bali

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

Foreign medics 'free to examine Pakpahan'

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

Experts divided over maximum mercury levels in human blood

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

Prabowo Subianto Urges Japanese Company Leaders to Strengthen Downstream Investment

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

Photography turns fashion into art

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

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

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

Bahlil Urges Upper Middle Class Not to Switch to Subsidised Fuel

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

Back to Campus, Back to Learning

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

Myanmar junta offers condolences to Suu Kyi

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

East Asia forum seeks community beyond borders

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

Election speeches to be screened

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

Grassroots excel in democracy

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

US and Iran Escalate Again, Global Stock Markets Plunge Collectively

Fresh clashes in the Strait of Hormuz between the US and Iran have shattered investor hopes for a peaceful resolution, triggering widespread sell-offs across global stock markets on Friday. The renewed tensions, including US strikes on Iranian military targets in response to attacks on American destroyers, threaten a month-old ceasefire and have driven oil prices higher amid fears of disruptions to vital energy shipping routes. Analysts warn that the volatile geopolitical situation could prolong uncertainty, impacting economic recovery and trade flows worldwide.

Treating mystic believers

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

ASEAN may press APEC on Hanoi entry, free trade

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

Yusril Speaks Out on TNI's Disruption of 'Pesta Babi' Film Screening

Yusril Ihza Mahendra, the Coordinating Minister for Legal Affairs, has clarified that the Indonesian government did not issue any ban on group screenings of the documentary film 'Pesta Babi: Colonialism in Our Time', which critiques national strategic projects in South Papua for environmental and indigenous rights impacts. He attributed the disruptions at certain universities, such as in Lombok and Ternate, to administrative procedures rather than central directives from the government or law enforcement. While acknowledging the film's provocative title and narrative, Yusril emphasised that such criticisms are legitimate and urged the public not to be swayed solely by sensationalism.

Indonesian debt team to meet creditors in Tokyo

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

Financial liberalization to top ASEAN meet

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

A start to stopping money laundering?

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

Steaming up the airwaves with advice on you know what

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

Rupert Murdoch enters Indonesian TV industry

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

Regional, bilateral pacts could block global trade talks

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

Tariff deadlock said not to affect ASEAN free trade

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

Campaign rules stifle debate

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

SE Asia to give limited backing to APEC trade plans

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

House votes to question President

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Considering turning RI into federal state

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

Pandemic Drives Technology Adoption, Investments in This Sector Promising

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

SE Asians dispute antiterror accord with United States

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

SE Asian currencies await cues from G7

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

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

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

Here Are the Results of Purbaya's Visit to the US: Meeting 'Elephants' to Debating IMF-WB

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa returned from a US visit where he engaged with major global investors like BlackRock and Fidelity, successfully alleviating their concerns over Indonesia's fiscal policies and economic prospects. In Washington DC, he debated fiscal strategies with IMF and World Bank officials, rejecting debt offers while affirming Indonesia's financial buffers, and met with S&P, which assured the stability of Indonesia's BBB credit rating for the next two years amid energy market volatility. These interactions underscore Indonesia's resilient economic fundamentals despite global pressures from Middle East conflicts and rising oil prices.

U.S. harbors new foreign policy in Asia-Pacific

U.S. harbors new foreign policy in Asia-Pacific By Anak Agung Banyu Perwita BANDUNG (JP): Almost all local media reported Indonesia's recent cancellation of the purchase of nine U.S. F-16 fighter jets and the government's refusal to take part in the American- run International Military Education and Training. The government's decisions were political responses to U.S. criticism over the implementation of democracy in Indonesia.

Clinton wants RI to stick to IMF plan

Clinton wants RI to stick to IMF plan JAKARTA (JP): U.S. President Bill Clinton said yesterday that pursuing economic reforms agreed with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) remained the best way for Indonesia to overcome the economic crisis. The message was conveyed by Clinton's special emissary Walter Mondale during a meeting to discuss the crisis with President Soeharto at the latter's Jl. Cendana residence.

Blending science education and religious education

Blending science education and religious education Mochtar Buchori, Educator, Legislator, Jakarta, mbuchori@indo.net.id The Islamic schools or madrasah that have opted for the inclusion of science education in their curriculum have complained of the difficulty in making science and religious education blend into one meaningful whole. This difficulty has come from the habit of looking upon these two programs as being incompatible.

Indonesia and Turkey Agree to Finalise CEPA Trade Deal

Indonesia and Turkey have committed to finalising their long-pending Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) to expand market access and increase bilateral trade. President Prabowo and Turkish President Erdogan agreed during a strategic bilateral meeting in Bogor to reduce trade barriers and unlock opportunities across infrastructure, energy, and defence sectors.

DPR Commission III Expels Developer During Meeting Over Mosque Dispute in Bekasi

A member of DPR Commission III, Habiburokhman, expelled a representative from the property developer PT Hasana Damai Putra (HDP) during a hearing regarding a dispute over access to a mosque in the Vasana and Neo Vasana housing complexes. The developer was removed for failing to comply with the meeting's rules of procedure and for repeatedly raising irrelevant points.

Doing it right in helping the bereaved

Doing it right in helping the bereaved JAKARTA (JP): How do you console a person grieving the death of a loved one? You may think the answer is simple -- after all, you've seen people offering their condolences to the bereaved, or may have done so yourself. Beware, however, because instead of comforting them, you may increase their pain.

Putting brakes on jalopies?

Putting brakes on jalopies? Jakarta is again pondering restricting the number of older cars in the city. It is also mulling the banning of motorcycles from main thoroughfares. Traffic congestion and the environment top the list of concerns in both cases. While the city's efforts to free Jakarta from its daily traffic jams should be commended, the two measures under consideration smack of a piecemeal solution.

Writers discuss their craft at World Economic Forum

Writers discuss their craft at World Economic Forum Harry Bhaskara, The Jakarta Post, Davos Most young writers dream of someone offering them a retreat for a season, somewhere in the hills, where the view over the lake and the absence of a telephone would inspire in them absolute dedication. Likewise, inner-city artists might wonder, in those long days between paintings, if creativity is encouraged by clean air. In the real world, though, do beautiful surroundings make for better works?

Writers discuss their craft at World Economic Forum

Writers discuss their craft at World Economic Forum Harry Bhaskara The Jakarta Post/Davos Most young writers dream of someone offering them a retreat for a season, somewhere in the hills, where the view over the lake and the absence of a telephone would inspire in them absolute dedication. Likewise, inner-city artists might wonder, in those long days between paintings, if creativity is encouraged by clean air. In the real world, though, do beautiful surroundings make for better works?

Jakarta Students Protest in Support of Pope Leo XIV at US Embassy

Jakarta students from the No War Youth Alliances demonstrated outside the US Embassy on 23 April 2026 to express solidarity with Pope Leo XIV amid his public dispute with US President Donald Trump over the war against Iran. The protesters criticised Trump's role in global conflicts, including the US-Israel actions in Iran and the kidnapping of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, while urging Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto to oppose imperialism. The demonstration, involving multiple student groups, highlighted a universal anti-war stance transcending religious boundaries, against the backdrop of escalating tensions between the Vatican leader and Trump.

'Voice of oppressed' Seno sweeps literary awards

'Voice of oppressed' Seno sweeps literary awards JAKARTA (JP): Many people are oppressed but only a few dare to speak out against it. Seno Gumira Ajidarma, winner of this year's Southeast Asia Write Award and one of the country's most prolific writers, is one of them. His 1995 short story anthology, Dilarang Menyanyi di Kamar Mandi (Singing in the Bathroom Prohibited), impressed the jury in the annual event. Seno received the award from Thai Prince Maha Vajralongkorn in Bangkok on Sept. 26.

More Than Just Transition: PLN Pursues Energy Independence

PT PLN's CEO, Darmawan Prasodjo, has emphasised that Indonesia's national electricity policy prioritises energy security and independence over mere transition from fossil fuels to renewables, aligning with President Prabowo Subianto's directives. Through the 2025–2034 Electricity Supply Business Plan (RUPTL), PLN aims to add 69.5 gigawatts of capacity, with 76% from new and renewable sources, while addressing challenges like geographical mismatches via a 48,000 km Green Enabling Supergrid and large-scale Battery Energy Storage Systems. These initiatives, including reducing diesel use and launching the Giga One bundling project, seek to lower costs, enhance reliability, and boost green investment attractiveness, ensuring affordable and domestic-based energy supply.

Sifting political science from politics

Sifting political science from politics By Ignas Kleden JAKARTA (JP): A statement by political scientist Juwono Sudarsono on Sept. 8, 1997 has sparked a heated debate on the topic of civilian political leadership in Indonesia. His point was that until 2005 the presidency in Indonesia should be held by someone firm and stable with extensive military training and field experience. The responses to this statement demonstrate clearly a double perception on a social science proposition.

German stage designer Neumann finds inspiration on the streets of Yogya

German stage designer Neumann finds inspiration on the streets of Yogya Christina Schott, Contributor, Yogyakarta Bert Neumann was born in 1960 in the East German town of Magdeburg, and is currently in Yogyakarta by support of the Goethe Institute Jakarta. With a background in stage design, Neumann's first contract was with the city theater of Potsdam. Finding the regulations there to be too strict, he struck out on his own as a freelancer.

ASEAN's Bali summit

ASEAN's Bali summit At least three important issues are expected to come up when leaders of the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) gather in Bali starting on Tuesday, with leaders from China, Japan, South Korea and India scheduled to meet with them the following day. First of all, the Balinese and the entire Indonesian nation are grateful for the resolve of the ASEAN leaders and their guests, who told President Megawati Soekarnoputri after the terrorist attack on Oct.

Flight from poverty

Flight from poverty If it was meant to be a wake up call, it failed to arouse even the slightest interest of the nation. A World Bank report about the state of poverty in Indonesia, and why it must be urgently addressed, was not alarming enough to prompt us to act. That nearly 60 percent of the population -- or over 120 million people -- in this country are either very poor or are "near poor" barely grabbed national attention.

Sand quarriers damage Cisadane conservation area

Sand quarriers damage Cisadane conservation area Theresia Sufa, The Jakarta Post, Bogor Mount Pasir Gudang has a seemingly inexhaustible supply of sand, which hundreds of people are taking advantage of by illegally quarrying for sand there. Covering a few hundred hectares, there are about 300 people every day illegally quarrying for sand there. These people, who work in groups of five to 10, come from the villages of Pasir Buncir, Srogol and Wates Jaya, all in Bogor regency.

War on terrorism to dominate Powell's talks in Southeast Asia

War on terrorism to dominate Powell's talks in Southeast Asia Matthew Lee, Agence France-Presse, Washington U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell heads into a six-nation tour of Southeast Asia next week with bolstering support for the U.S.- led war on terrorism in the region at the top of his agenda.

Thousands of Part-Time PPPK Health Workers in Central Lombok Cancel Strike Due to This

A planned strike by 1,530 part-time PPPK health workers in Central Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara, was called off after the local government agreed to raise their wages. The workers had demanded salaries equivalent to the regional minimum wage and the opening of full-time PPPK positions, leading to normal healthcare services resuming without disruption. This resolution highlights the local administration's responsiveness to employee welfare amid fiscal challenges, with officials emphasising dialogue and prayer for further policy support.

Presidential Aide Presents Pocket Book on Social Welfare Programmes to Social Minister

The Social Minister, Saifullah Yusuf (Gus Ipul), received a visit from Presidential Special Staff Dirgayuza Setiawan, who presented a pocket book outlining President Prabowo Subianto's strategic social welfare programmes aimed at achieving zero poverty by 2026. The book details various government assistance initiatives across multiple ministries, including PKH, free nutritious meals, and health checks, and is intended as a guide for social affairs officials to disseminate information effectively. This initiative underscores the government's commitment to providing lifelong welfare support and addressing daily challenges faced by the populace through coordinated inter-agency efforts.

Bali Could Implement Pay-Per-Destination Fees for Tourists

In Bali, the introduction of entry fees at destinations like Kintamani and Nusa Penida has sparked debate, with concerns that such levies could lead to a proliferation of similar charges, potentially deterring tourists and harming the island's tourism image. Inda Trimafo Yudha, Chairperson of the Indonesian Recreational Park Business Association (PUTRI) Bali, emphasises the need for a clear legal basis, transparency, and ensuring fees are used to improve infrastructure and amenities, warning against burdensome multiple fees that could alienate visitors. She highlights that tourists already contribute significantly to the local economy and calls for strategic revenue generation to support sustainable tourism without negative repercussions.

Movie breaks sexual taboos, but leaves some viewer uneasy

Movie breaks sexual taboos, but leaves some viewer uneasy Tomi Soetjipto, Reuters, Jakarta The candid home-grown tale Arisan! has become an unlikely box office hit, challenging and wowing audiences in equal measure. Playing to packed movie houses in Jakarta, it is a satirical comedy mocking the life of the rich in the nation's capital and tackling the taboo subject of homosexuality. To the surprise of many in the local film industry, state censors passed the movie with almost no cuts.

Gus Dur set for historic visit

Gus Dur set for historic visit By Meydiatama Suryodiningrat CANBERRA (JP): The Australian capital was its usual quiet self over the weekend, no sign that it was to witness probably one of the most important events in ties with its northern neighbor -- the first visit of an Indonesian President in 26 years. Barring a last minute cancellation on Sunday -- which has already happened five times before -- President Abdurrahman Wahid is due to arrive here on Monday morning.

Turning Bangkok inside out

Turning Bangkok inside out Ehito Kimura, Contributor, Jakarta Bangkok Inside Out Daniel Ziv and Guy Sharett 176 pp Equinox Publishing Equal parts insight and wit, Bangkok Inside Out give readers a unique view into Thailand's pulsating capital city. The guidebook consists of short reflections and sleek photos that together give readers an honest glimpse of urban life in Bangkok.

The Listening Post

The Listening Post * English-language skills upgrading is an integral part of what is generally known as "Human Resources Development," and as Indonesia moves forward into a globalized age, such training becomes ever more important to Indonesian business, industry and government.

Preliminary talks on Muslim unity go ahead

Preliminary talks on Muslim unity go ahead KUALA LUMPUR (Agencies): Preliminary talks between Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad's party and a powerful opposition group went ahead on Friday after earlier being called off by officials on the government side.

Indonesia according to Journalist Tim Dodd

Indonesia according to Journalist Tim Dodd Tantri Yuliandini, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta "Indonesian traffic is like a school of fish, it swims down the road and goes around things, and weaves in and out of the obstacles," outgoing Australian Financial Review correspondent Tim Dodd said about Jakarta's traffic.

Ba'asyir's conviction

Ba'asyir's conviction Whatever others may say about it, here in Indonesia the trial and subsequent conviction on Thursday of Abu Bakar Ba'asyir to 30 months' imprisonment for partaking in the "evil conspiracy" that culminated in the Oct. 12, 2002, Bali nightclub bombings is likely to remain a topic of heated contention for a long time to come.

Indonesian history as an autonomous history

Indonesian history as an autonomous history Yosef Djakababa, Contributor, Jakarta Indonesia: Peoples and Histories Jean Gelman Taylor 448 pp Yale University Press Jean Gelman Taylor's book titled Indonesia: Peoples and Histories is an important addition to the study of Indonesian history. In this book, Taylor uses an original and unique approach in not having any citations in the book. Instead, she uses what she called capsules.

Many baffled by voting options

Many baffled by voting options By Stevie Emilia JAKARTA (JP): An ojek (motorcycle taxi) driver proudly displayed his hat bearing the symbol of the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI Perjuangan) and, while waiting for passengers, chatted with his friends about the party's past achievements. Maman, who operates in North Jakarta's Pademangan area, said he bought the hat from a sidewalk vendor for Rp 5,000.

Views on Indonesia from leaders of tomorrow

Views on Indonesia from leaders of tomorrow Dewi Anggraeni, Contributor, Melbourne, Australia "When I visited Indonesia, I was surprised at the gentleness and friendliness of the people. They were so different to the angry faces I'd seen on television," wrote a Year 10 student studying Indonesian. Another revealed, "I think my teacher was a spy when he was in Indonesia.

New color schemes for your home and work space

New color schemes for your home and work space By Pavan Kapoor JAKARTA (JP): Current colors and shades are the trendsetters, not only in the world of fashion but correspondingly within the contemporary world of interior design as well. People today are not only keen to pick a dress or shirt of the latest color but are also looking for a little adventure when doing up their offices and work spaces as well.

Attorney General Appoints Riono as Head of Bangka Belitung Prosecutor's Office, Ardito Muwardi to Replace Deputy Chief of Special Crimes

Indonesia's Attorney General ST Burhanuddin has issued a decree rotating 14 provincial chief prosecutors across Sumatra, Java, Bali, and Sulawesi, including appointing Riono Budisantoso as Head of the Bangka Belitung Prosecutor's Office and Dedie Tri Hariyadi as Head of the West Sumatra Prosecutor's Office. Ardito Muwardi, previously Deputy Head of the Banten Prosecutor's Office, will take over as Director of Prosecution in the Attorney General's Special Crimes Unit, with Rinaldi Umar assuming the Banten deputy role. This reshuffle aims to strengthen prosecutorial leadership nationwide amid ongoing legal and enforcement priorities.

KAI faces rail travel challenges

KAI faces rail travel challenges Yuli Tri Suwarni, The Jakarta Post, Bandung "The moment I hear the word train, I think only of filth, chaos and neglect," a government official told the president director of state-owned train company PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI), Omar Berto recently. That official is not the only critic.

Ulemas urge holiday during Ramadhan

Ulemas urge holiday during Ramadhan BAGU, West Nusa Tenggara (JP): Indonesia's largest Moslem organization, Nahdlatul Ulama (NU), concluded its national conference yesterday with a call for the government to, among others, declare the Moslem fasting month of Ramadhan a school holiday. The ulemas also asked the government to manage the yearly haj pilgrimage to Mecca, Saudi Arabia, in a transparent and professional manner.

11 alleged 'axe robbers' shot dead this year

11 alleged 'axe robbers' shot dead this year JAKARTA (JP): The police have shot dead since January this year 11 members of what are widely dubbed "red axe-wielding gangs", bands of robbers who often prey on lone motorists, particularly females, at traffic lights throughout the city, an officer said on Thursday. "Eight were shot dead at several traffic lights in East Jakarta, while the remaining three gang members were shot dead in the North Jakarta area," City Police spokesman Supt.

Central Jakarta District Court Judges Convert Detention of Delpedro and Co-Defendants to City Arrest

The panel of judges has converted the detention status of defendants in an alleged incitement case — Lokataru Executive Director Delpedro Marhaen, @gejayanmemanggil administrator Syahdan Husein, and Lokataru Foundation staff member Muzaffar Salim — from remand detention to city arrest. Delpedro and his co-defendants are subject to mandatory reporting obligations and are prohibited from leaving the city without permission.

Five Defendants in Crude Oil Corruption Case Demanded 6-12 Years in Prison

Prosecutors in Jakarta's Corruption Court have demanded prison sentences ranging from six to twelve years for five executives involved in a massive crude oil governance corruption scandal at Pertamina, which allegedly caused state losses of Rp 285 trillion. The accused, including high-ranking officials from Pertamina and a business manager, face additional fines of Rp 1 billion each and restitution of Rp 5 billion, with the case highlighting failures in fuel imports and non-subsidised diesel sales that undermine government anti-corruption efforts. This prosecution underscores the ongoing challenges in maintaining clean governance within Indonesia's state-owned energy sector.

Nurhadi's Verdict Hearing in Gratuity and Money Laundering Case Scheduled for 1 April

The verdict hearing for former Supreme Court Secretary Nurhadi, accused of gratuity and money laundering offences, is set for 1 April 2026 at the Central Jakarta Corruption Court. Prosecutors previously demanded a seven-year prison sentence, a fine of Rp500 million, and restitution of over Rp137 billion, citing his unexplained wealth from assets disproportionate to his official salary and failure to report them in mandatory state official wealth declarations. This case underscores ongoing efforts to combat corruption among high-ranking judicial officials, with aggravating factors including the misuse of authority that undermines the government's anti-corruption initiatives.

Myanmar becomes ASEAN observer

Myanmar becomes ASEAN observer JAKARTA (JP): Myanmar took one step closer to becoming a member of the Association of Southeast Nations (ASEAN) yesterday as it was inducted as an observer of the seven-member organization. Myanmar's admission came in the midst of intense Western criticism over Yangon's human rights record.

On the Shelves

On the Shelves Studying Ethnic Chinese in Indonesia; By Charles A. Coppel; Singapore Society of Asian Studies, Singapore, 2002; 410 pp. The role of the Chinese ethnic group in Indonesia has always been known to be controversial, yet relatively few books have been published on the topic.

Besides SBY, Jokowi and JK, here is the list of national figures who attended Prabowo's invitation

President Prabowo Subianto hosted a cross-generational gathering at the Merdeka Palace, inviting former presidents and vice presidents, current leaders, and top party figures to discuss strategic issues and geopolitics. The event signals an attempt to exchange views ahead of 2026, with discussions touching on international affairs and electoral-law matters.

Murti, children's story teller

Murti, children's story teller Endang Roh Suciati, Contributor, Jakarta Taking children's literature as the topic of her dissertation led Murti Bunanta, an author and academic, to become the first person to obtain a doctoral degree on that subject from the University of Indonesia in 1997. Murti choose the Bawang Merah and Bawang Putih tale as the subject of her academic exploration. In the past, the folk tale was recounted orally.

Russia accuses EU of politicising efforts to evacuate children from Ukraine

Russia's Permanent Representative to the EU has accused the bloc of spreading disinformation about Moscow's humanitarian efforts to evacuate underage children from conflict zones in Ukraine and reunite separated families. The statement responds to an EU meeting that alleged "kidnapping" of Ukrainian children, with Russia denying any forced transfers and highlighting ongoing family reunification processes mediated by international bodies. This diplomatic spat underscores escalating tensions between Russia and the West amid the Ukraine conflict.

Local lenders living on borrowed time, warns BI

Indonesia's banks may lose out to their regional competitors when the free trade and services agreement among Southeast Asian nations is fully implemented in 2015. Syamsul Arifin of Bank Indonesia's international affairs unit said Thursday that most of the country's banks were still far from being efficient or capable of going head to head with their regional rivals.

Southeast Asian currencies lifted by yen

Southeast Asian currencies lifted by yen SINGAPORE (Dow Jones): Most Southeast Asian currencies lifted slightly during Asian trading on Friday as the Japanese yen nosed higher against the U.S. dollar. The rupiah, however, ended lower, after Indonesia's supreme military chief advised the population to stay at home, triggering a flurry of local currency sales. But the rupiah looks set to remain the exception among regional currencies, according to analysts and traders.

TV today

TV today TVRI 10:00 a.m. Live Reports: Gelanggang Sea Games XIX 1:00 p.m. Music 2:00 News: Berita 14 2:30 Live Reports: Gelanggang Sea Games XIX 3:35 Belief in God The Almighty 4:00 Regional News 4:30 Health Program: Kesehatan Mata 5:00 Indonesian Lessons 5:25 Variety Show: Music City Today 5:30 Sport Topic 6:00 News: Lintasan Berita 6:05 Nusantara, The Beloved Country 6:15 Village Program 6:30 TVRI News 7:00 Evening News 7:35 Talk Show: Sukses PIN 8:00 News: Lintasan Berita 8:05 Music: Mozaik...

Coalition Questions Prabowo's Concrete Actions in Andrie Case

The Coalition for Solidarity with Andrie Yunus has urged President Prabowo Subianto to demonstrate his commitment by establishing a joint fact-finding team and ensuring a fair and transparent legal process in the attempted murder case of activist Andrie Yunus, who was attacked with corrosive chemicals by military personnel. Critics highlight that the ongoing military-led investigation has bypassed victim and witness examinations and appears to shield higher-level involvement, despite Prabowo's public condemnation of the incident as barbaric terrorism. This demand underscores broader concerns about military impunity in human rights violations and the need for civilian oversight to uphold democratic justice in Indonesia.

IPTN begins 1st phase of cutting workforce

IPTN begins 1st phase of cutting workforce By M.M.I. Ahyani BANDUNG (JP): Financially strapped PT IPTN, the state-owned aircraft manufacturer, has offered its aging and low-skilled employees lucrative cash incentives to retire early in its bid to streamline its workforce from 15,750 to 10,500 by 2001.

Half a century of Indonesian printmaking

Half a century of Indonesian printmaking By Aendra H. Medita JAKARTA (JP): A large exhibition at Bentara Budaya Jakarta is attempting to trace the development of Indonesian printmaking over the last 50 years. The development of graphic arts differs greatly from other fine arts. The art of painting was developed earlier with the birth of the Indonesian Painters Association and the establishment of Young Indonesian Artists. But the exhibition does not seek to compare printmaking and painting.

Old pledge a lesson

Old pledge a lesson It is disheartening to learn that thousands of students in a Jakarta school had to miss many days of their classes this month because of a religious dispute. We are talking about the Sang Timur Catholic School, Tangerang, which was blockaded for three weeks by two groups of residents calling themselves the Karang Tengah Islamic Communication Forum and the Islam Youth Front because the school had been used for Sunday sermons.

The Listening Post

The Listening Post * Internet banking in Indonesia: Bank Papan Sejahtera and Lotus Development Corporation have agreed to collaborate on a range of computer network services for Papan depositors and lenders. To explain how this will sharpen Papan's productivity, President Director Al Njoo hosted a Presentation and Press Conference with Jeff Papows, Chairman and CEO of Lotus Development Corporation, at the Dharmawangsa Apartment Hotel last Sunday.

Gloomy skies over ASEAN economic ministers meeting

Gloomy skies over ASEAN economic ministers meeting SINGAPORE (AFP): Southeast Asian economic ministers meeting in Cambodia this week are faced with the task of sustaining growth while their trade-dependent economies are hammered by the US slowdown, analysts said. Their job is made more difficult by pockets of political instability which are dampening investor interest in the region at a time when China's allure as an investment haven is growing.

Dorce: On duty and charity

Dorce: On duty and charity Kurniawan Hari, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Almost three weeks after I contacted Dorce Gamalama for an interview, I finally met her in a makeup room of television station Trans TV during the taping of her show. She welcomed me warmly, but without a big hug -- like the way she greeted the petite singer Kristina who came in later. Unlike her exquisite on-screen appearance -- with a nice wig and beautiful dress -- Dorce showed up wearing only a sarong.

Aussie patrol boat collides with trawler

Aussie patrol boat collides with trawler AUSTRALIA: An Indonesian fishing vessel sank after a collision with an Australian Navy patrol boat, defense ministry officials said. The HMAS Geralton approached the 12 to 15-meter wooden boat before dawn on suspicion that it was fishing illegally in Australian waters, 360 kilometers northwest of Darwin, when the collision happened. "The Indonesian vessel was abandoned by its crew and subsequently sunk," spokesman Bill Overton told Reuters.

Aussie patrol boat collides with trawler

Aussie patrol boat collides with trawler AUSTRALIA: An Indonesian fishing vessel sank after a collision with an Australian Navy patrol boat, defense ministry officials said. The HMAS Geralton approached the 12 to 15-meter wooden boat before dawn on suspicion that it was fishing illegally in Australian waters, 360 kilometers northwest of Darwin, when the collision happened. "The Indonesian vessel was abandoned by its crew and subsequently sunk," spokesman Bill Overton told Reuters.

Detention of Delpedro and Co-defendants Converted to City Arrest: What Are the Rules?

The panel of judges has decided to convert the detention status of three defendants in the alleged incitement case related to the August demonstrations to city arrest. The three are Lokataru Executive Director Delpedro Marhaen, administrator of the @gejayanmemanggil account Syahdan Husein, and Lokataru Foundation staff member Muzaffar Salim.

PDIP Calls for Cancellation of 105,000 Pickup Truck Import from India: Lacks Transparency

A PDIP (Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle) member of the DPR (House of Representatives) has criticised the planned import of 105,000 pickup trucks from India, citing a lack of transparency and consultation with relevant parliamentary committees. The MP argues that the import plan, intended for the 'Red and White Village Cooperative' program, could negatively impact the domestic automotive industry and job creation, and calls for the plan to be cancelled rather than simply postponed.

Mahathir's illness unsettles Malaysian politics

Mahathir's illness unsettles Malaysian politics By Nelson Graves KUALA LUMPUR (Reuters): Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad's latest illness has stirred anxiety in financial markets and revived speculation over Malaysia's political future once Asia's longest serving leader no longer holds power. Mahathir, 73, was in the National Heart Institute last Friday for the sixth day being treated for bronchitis.

Women growing segment of motorcycle market

More bad news for the macho male Indonesian. Of the 35 million motorcycle riders around the country, almost one in four are women. And that figure will continue to grow in the coming years. As recently as two years ago, motorcycle manufacturers refused to recognize women as potential customers, probably because all the "evidence", like ownership papers, was in the name of males in this male-dominated society.

Husner presents his view of Bali in exhibition

Husner presents his view of Bali in exhibition By Putu Wirata DENPASAR, Bali (JP): A comprehensive look at an anthropologic journey to Bali is the main topic of Dutch painter Paul Husner's works, displayed at Ganesha Gallery in Jimbaran. The exhibition, running from March 6 to March 31, portrays the exotic life of the Balinese from the West's point of view.

Keeping old city breathing amid modernization

Keeping old city breathing amid modernization Fransiska Prihadi, Architect, Jakarta How do we remember a city? Is it by the roads and buildings that we pass through? By the food we eat? By unfamiliar faces of people we meet on the street? We could find thousands more answers, but it would still come back to the sense of place in our mind. The sense of place is defined by time-historical and political time, they do not work with timetables, lists of departure and arrival times.

Where to go in Jakarta:

Where to go in Jakarta: Exhibitions * Ceramics Exhibition by F Widayanto Galeri Nasional Indonesia, Jl. Medan Merdeka Timur 14, Gambir, Central Jakarta (Phone: 3813021, 34833954), 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., June 16. * Painting Exhibition by Tsubasa and Nasution, Pusat Kebudayaan Jepang - The Japan Foundation, Summitmas I, Jl. Jend. Sudirman Kav. 61-62 South Jakarta (Phone: 5201266), Monday to Friday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., until June 17.

When Time is No Longer Worth Money: AI and the Transformation of Work Structure

Artificial intelligence is fundamentally challenging Indonesia's time-based employment model, which has underpinned capitalism for over two centuries.

Head of National Nutrition Agency Asks Viral Dancing Man at SPPG to Apologise to the Public

The Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), Dadan Hindayana, has reprimanded a man who went viral for dancing at a Nutrition Fulfilment Service Unit (SPPG) while displaying a Rp6 million incentive, demanding a public apology and temporarily suspending the unit due to non-compliance with technical guidelines. The incident, which involved creating content without proper personal protective equipment in the kitchen, has drawn criticism from BGN officials who emphasise that the Free Nutritious Meals Programme (MBG) is a government initiative to educate children, not a business venture. This response underscores the agency's commitment to quality control and adherence to standard operating procedures amid the programme's expansion to benefit 82.9 million recipients, including pregnant and breastfeeding mothers and toddlers.

Communities without faces

Communities without faces By Tjipto Ramuni JAKARTA (JP): Roy Sembel is a financial and investment expert. He assigns himself to educate people so that they will have a better understanding about money and investment. Hence, almost all of his writings are influenced by this "personal" assignment. Last year, he traveled across the country to speak at seminars.

Between desire and loathing in extramarital affairs

Between desire and loathing in extramarital affairs By Hyginus Hardoyo JAKARTA (JP): In front of a sympathetic audience, the young man was willing to speak up and tell of his marital troubles. "Doctor, my wife is having an extramarital affair with her former boyfriend. Despite my wife's transgression, I still love her and do not want to see my family break up.

The ABC's of dating for dummies, with help from the Internet

The ABC's of dating for dummies, with help from the Internet By A. Suhandojo JAKARTA (JP): It's Saturday night and you are a single woman who does not have a date. You are alone in your room. That lonely feeling that you've been successfully hidden away on weekdays in your office slowly crawls to the surface. You try to call your friends, but you only reach their answering machines, since all of them are out with their lovers. Then you turn on the TV, only to find boring programs.

Jakartans get into the gambling habit

Jakartans get into the gambling habit JAKARTA (JP): The 472nd anniversary of the capital this year is also marked with the growing number of gambling operators scattered throughout the corners of the city. Gambling is illegal in this country, but a popular trend is called judi buntut, togel, or toto gelap, which is a bet based on four numbers released every two or three days by dozens of gambling operators.

Thailand stuns over RI's policies on troubled Aceh

Thailand stuns over RI's policies on troubled Aceh The Nation, Asia News Network, Bangkok By backing the attack on Aceh rebels, Bangkok may have given up on hopes for peace in the strife-torn province For a country that doesn't like to make its foreign policy stance known, Thailand managed to surprise the international community when it threw its support behind the Indonesian government in their all-out war against the separatist Acehnese.

Coca-Cola fully aware of environment

Coca-Cola fully aware of environment The Coca-Cola system in Indonesia lets its actions speak louder than words on the issue of protecting the environment. The company's 12 bottlers in Indonesia have launched a number of programs aimed at increasing environmental awareness among employees and the general public.

Reform means never having to say you are sorry

Reform means never having to say you are sorry JAKARTA (JP): First thing in the morning of every Lebaran (Moslem Holiday), after praying, I have to accept apologies from my wife, my sons, my daughter-in-law and my granddaughter. I say "I have to" because it is very unlikely that those loving creatures have made any mistakes to apologize for. It is just our tradition on the special day to forgive each other whole-heatedly, by saying "Maaf lahir batin".

Keeping old city breathes amid modernization

Keeping old city breathes amid modernization Keeping the old cities Breathing: Malacca and Kali Besar Fransiska Prihadi Architect Jakarta How do we remember a city? Is it by the roads and buildings that we pass through? By the food we eat? By unfamiliar faces of people we meet on the street? We could find thousands more answers, but it would still come back to the sense of place in our mind.

Keeping old city breathes amid modernization

Keeping old city breathes amid modernization Keeping the old cities Breathing: Malacca and Kali Besar Fransiska Prihadi Architect Jakarta How do we remember a city? Is it by the roads and buildings that we pass through? By the food we eat? By unfamiliar faces of people we meet on the street? We could find thousands more answers, but it would still come back to the sense of place in our mind.

Famous Bali Temple Delays Increasing Entry Ticket Fees for Tourists

In response to the ongoing Middle East conflict driving up energy and travel costs, the iconic Tanah Lot Temple in Bali has postponed its planned entry and parking fee increases, keeping prices stable to support budget-conscious tourism. Visitor numbers remain steady despite a dip from Middle Eastern tourists, bolstered by Eid al-Fitr holidays, while other attractions like Ulun Danu Beratan proceed with hikes in 2026. Discussions on regional entry fees in areas like Kintamani and Nusa Penida raise concerns among stakeholders about potential backlash against "crowd-based levies" that could harm Bali's tourism image, despite tourists' existing economic contributions through local spending.

The Aceh killing fields

The Aceh killing fields Reports reaching us about the human rights abuses committed in recent years by Armed Forces personnel in Indonesia's westernmost province of Aceh have made us shudder.

The Listening Post

The Listening Post "Building English Skills Through Newspaper + Radio" Produced by American Language Center in cooperation with The Jakarta Post and Radio Sonora FM 100.9 Mhz * "Sound of the Economy," a monthly panel discussion by experts, on audiocassette, opens another year of our English listening study series, through a unique distance-learning program. "The Listening Post," which premiered in October 1988, has always been, and is still, the only English program of its kind in the world.

English test a must for foreign schools

English test a must for foreign schools By Christiani S. Tumelap JAKARTA (JP): Thinking of pursuing a higher degree in an English-speaking country? Better get busy improving not only your academic skills, but also your command of English. Different tests may be part of the entry requirements for your favorite college or university.

PUI's 108th Anniversary: National Police Chief Calls for Collaboration to Safeguard Unity and National Economy

National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo attended the 108th anniversary celebration of Persatuan Ummat Islam (PUI) in Majalengka, West Java, urging the organisation to collaborate in maintaining national unity and economic stability. He highlighted global risks including trade wars, AI-driven disinformation, and social polarisation, while expressing optimism about Indonesia's economic indicators and President Prabowo Subianto's Golden Indonesia 2045 vision.

Researchers highlight traceability challenges in the national palm oil industry

Researchers from Trisakti University have identified smallholder farmers as the weakest link in the palm oil supply chain, posing significant challenges to implementing traceability required by global markets like the EU's Deforestation Regulation. The study emphasises that 42% of Indonesia's palm oil plantations are managed by smallholders, complicating compliance with demands for deforestation-free certification and precise tracking from farm to shelf. To address this, the Plantation Fund Management Agency (BPDP) is urged to prioritise traceability in its programmes, providing incentives, digital infrastructure, and support for land legalisation to strengthen the industry's sustainability and market access.

Can Amsal Sitepu Be Imprisoned? Here Are the Conditions

Legal expert Boris Tampubolon argues that videographer Amsal Sitepu, accused of corruption for allegedly marking up a village promotional video project, can only be imprisoned if prosecutors prove a kickback to officials, as required to establish mens rea under Indonesia's anti-corruption law. He criticises the application of Articles 2 and 3 of the UU Tipikor as overly broad without intent elements, and stresses that Sitepu's pricing for his services is protected under copyright law as his economic right. The case has drawn parliamentary attention, with the DPR's Commission III scheduling a hearing on alleged injustices, highlighting broader concerns over fair enforcement of corruption charges.

Jl. Kramat Raya offers more than just dates

Jl. Kramat Raya offers more than just dates Tantri Yuliandini, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta There is nothing like the fasting month to make Muslims so enthusiastic about food. Suddenly, they are in a frenzy over what to eat for the breaking of the fast, and the sahur meal before daybreak, the takjil snacks eaten to break the fast and even the main meal can be a topic of conversation.

Golkar rejects its old image

Golkar rejects its old image The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Growing resentment against calls to become loyalists of former president Soeharto has led the former dominant party, Golkar, to exercise a good measure of damage control in its campaigns by removing itself from symbols of the past regime. Soeharto was the main patron of Golkar and calls from a political party set up by his former aide, R.

TV today

TV today TVRI 2:00 p.m. News: Berita 14 2:35 TV Series: The Big Valley 3:05 Management Program: Kiat Manajemen 3:30 TV Drama: Dambaan Hati 4:00 Regional News 4:30 Creative Program: Karya Kita 5:00 Indonesian Lessons 5:30 Educational Quiz: Tangkas Cermat 6:00 News: Lintasan Berita 6:05 My Country: Rona Nusantara 6:15 Sports 6:30 TVRI News (in English) 7:00 Evening News 7:35 Teen Quiz: Gita Remaja 8:00 News: Lintasan Berita 8:05 Teen Quiz: Gita Remaja (contd.) 8:30 Religious Teachings: Buddha...

Social and religious harmony is not unraveling in Singapore

Social and religious harmony is not unraveling in Singapore Asad Latif, The Straits Times, Asia News Network, Singapore The topic of the online discussion with Dr. Yaacob Ibrahim, which the Singapore International Foundation organized last week, was striking: "Social and racial harmony -- Is Singapore unraveling?" Participant Ned Kelly asked: "Racial and religious tolerance begins with education. How will the 'unraveling' of Singapore relate to the unraveling of the tudung?" Dr.

Witness in Rp 200 Million 'Phantom Money' Case Suddenly Flees Before Trial

A key witness, lawyer Habib Al Kuthbi, unexpectedly left the corruption court in Mataram just before the trial of three West Nusa Tenggara DPRD members accused of receiving phantom money gratifications, prompting prosecutors to read his prior examination statement instead. The case centres on the return of Rp 200 million to Habib from the cousin of DPRD member Yasin Ibrahim, which Habib claims was a personal loan repayment unrelated to the defendants, while other testimonies suggest it was linked to the illicit funds. This development highlights ongoing efforts to unravel the bribery scheme involving legislators Indra Jaya Usman, Hamdan Kasim, and Muhammad Nashib Ikroman from the 2024-2029 period.

Letter writer Gandhi Sukardi wins award

Letter writer Gandhi Sukardi wins award JAKARTA (JP): How does one feel on entering the record books of the Indonesian Museum of Records (MURI), and having the well- known Jaya Suprana ceremoniously hand an award plaque to you in front of your proud family, close friends and a media contingent? "Appreciated and very grateful," said Gandhi Sukardi, the happy honoree, during a ceremony on Aug. 22 at the Grand Mahakam Hotel in Kebayoran Baru, Jakarta.

Magazine taps into urban youth culture

Magazine taps into urban youth culture Hera Diani, The Jakarta Post, Bandung For some people, anything mainstream is frightening. Because mainstream could mean bubblegum pop, boybands, Hollywood schlock -- in short, the products of the big fat capitalist pigs. In other words, it's boring and uncool, lacking any redeeming characteristics whatsoever. Some people become mainstream-phobic, doing anything against what the majority do to show they are not part of the system.

KPK Traces Assets of Former HSU Chief Prosecutor Registered Under Other People's Names

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is investigating assets belonging to former Hulu Sungai Utara (HSU) Chief Prosecutor Albertinus P Napitupulu, which are registered under the names of private individuals, as part of a broader extortion case involving local government agencies. Napitupulu, along with two subordinates, allegedly extorted Rp 804 million and additional funds by threatening to ignore civil society complaints against departments like education, health, and public works, while also siphoning off prosecutor's office budgets for personal use. This case underscores ongoing efforts to combat corruption within Indonesia's law enforcement institutions, with the suspects facing charges under anti-corruption laws.

KL conference AIDS in Asia-Pacific

KL conference AIDS in Asia-Pacific KUALA LUMPUR (Agencies): Asia's largest AIDS conference has a heavy topic on its agenda: How to control the epidemic in countries where experts say the virus is growing at a faster rate than anywhere in the world.

National dialog to give voice to all parties

National dialog to give voice to all parties By Makmur Keliat SURABAYA (JP): Amid the monetary crisis plaguing the country since June of last year, Amien Rais, the leader of Muhammadiyah Moslem organization, recently proposed the holding of a national dialog. Though in principal the idea received a positive response, divergent views have been voiced on who should participate and who should organize.

Envirocrime and corruption: evil twins

Envirocrime and corruption: evil twins Patrick Guntensperger Jakarta If you ask any group of reasonably intelligent people to list the gravest problems in the world today, several perennial favorites can usually be predicted to show up on the list. Along with terrorism, corruption and poverty, the environment can usually be counted upon to make the top ten, with the flavors of the week and issues of special interest rounding out the contenders.

Moral degradation: An ugly portrait of our society

Moral degradation: An ugly portrait of our society Setiono, Contributor, Jakarta Robohnya Moral Kami (The Degradation of Our Morals) Yayasan Obor Indonesia, 2005, pp 117 Amid the seemingly never-ending crises in Indonesia, we are facing the most serious social ailment: the degradation of morality. Moral degradation appears in every sphere of life -- politics, economics, education, law and many others. It has become a general phenomenon.

Cybersecurity Business in Indonesia: From Technical Need to Strategic Industry

The cybersecurity sector in Indonesia has evolved from a mere technical necessity to a strategic industry, driven by rising data breaches and cyber attacks that have heightened awareness among businesses. This growth is forming a multifaceted ecosystem involving solution providers, end-users in sectors like banking and e-commerce, regulators, and educational institutions, though challenges such as talent shortages and uneven regulatory implementation persist. As companies increasingly view cybersecurity as a vital investment rather than a cost, the industry presents significant opportunities amid accelerating digitalisation, positioning it as a key pillar for Indonesia's digital transformation.

Track Record of Ahmad Sahroni as He Returns to Commission Leadership

NasDem politician Ahmad Sahroni has been reinstated as Deputy Chairman of Commission III of the DPR after serving a six-month ethics suspension for calling critics of parliament "idiots" during the August 2025 anti-parliamentary pay rise protests. Sahroni, whose home was ransacked by demonstrators during the unrest, replaces Rusdi Masse Mappasessu, who has since left both the DPR and NasDem to join the Indonesian Solidarity Party.

APEC agenda set for trade and investment facilitation

APEC agenda set for trade and investment facilitation By Vincent Lingga BEIJING (JP): After the meaty subject of trade liberalization, measures of trade and investment facilitation rank as the second most important topic of discussions related to APEC cooperation program.

US Warship Passes Through Malacca Strait, Government Urged to Reaffirm Neutral Stance

Indonesia's Deputy Chairman of Commission I of the House of Representatives, Dave Laksono, has called on the government to reiterate its neutral and free active foreign policy following the transit of a US warship through the Malacca Strait. The passage of the USS Miguel Keith, confirmed by the Indonesian Navy as a legitimate transit under UNCLOS, has sparked international perceptions amid reports of US operations targeting Iranian-linked tankers in the Indo-Pacific region. Laksono emphasised the importance of maintaining regional stability, upholding international law, and promoting multilateral cooperation to ensure the strait remains a secure global trade route.

Prosecutors Demand Chromebook Laptop Producers and Resellers Return Profits

In a high-profile corruption case involving the procurement of Chromebook laptops for Indonesia's Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology (Kemendikbudristek), prosecutors have demanded that producers and resellers return their unjust profits obtained through a collusive scheme that inflated prices and undermined fair competition. The scheme implicated former Education Minister Nadiem Makarim and others, with prosecutors highlighting the lack of good faith in price negotiations with the government procurement agency. This development underscores ongoing efforts to recover state losses from the 2022 digital education initiative, following severe prison sentences sought against key officials.

Enviromental crime and graft: Evil twins

Enviromental crime and graft: Evil twins Patrick Guntensperger, Jakarta If you ask any group of reasonably intelligent people to list the gravest problems in the world today, several perennial favorites can usually be predicted to show up on the list. Along with terrorism, corruption and poverty, the environment can usually be counted upon to make the top ten, with the flavors of the week and issues of special interest rounding out the contenders.

Disaster Response Seminar: Culture Minister Emphasises Practical Solutions to Protect Cultural Heritage

Indonesia's Culture Minister Fadli Zon has highlighted the urgent need for disaster mitigation strategies to safeguard cultural heritage sites, given the country's position on the Pacific Ring of Fire and recent damages to 43 sites in Sumatra. Speaking at a seminar and exhibition titled 'Resilient and Sustainable Disaster-Proof Cultural Heritage' organised by the Ministry of Culture, he called for accelerated designation of national cultural assets and enhanced public awareness to foster harmony between culture and nature. The event, involving experts and stakeholders, aims to generate concrete solutions and strengthen collaborations for long-term preservation amid growing threats from both natural and human-induced disasters.

Often Fighting Over Money with Your Partner? Here's How to Deal With It

Money is a frequent source of conflict in relationships, driven by differences in financial values, emotional factors, and communication gaps. The article outlines practical steps, including regular financial discussions, joint goals, understanding backgrounds, and flexible financial arrangements such as the 'yours, mine, and ours' model to reduce disputes.

Pacific Rim ministers discuss oil prices

Pacific Rim ministers discuss oil prices Associated Press, Seogwipo, South Korea Pacific Rim finance officials kicked off two days of talks on Thursday focusing on the economic threat of high oil prices, China's currency system and efforts to reach a new global trade agreement. Finance ministers or their deputies from the 21 member economies of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum are meeting on South Korea's southern Jeju Island ahead of APEC's annual summit meeting in November.

Everybody is crazy about Desy Ratnasari

Everybody is crazy about Desy Ratnasari JAKARTA (JP): It must be the divorce of the year. As starlet Desy Ratnasari filed the petition to end her 13 month marriage with engineer Trenadi Pramudya, the proceeding was featured in most local media. Everything printed about Desy, one of the most popular actresses in the country, is selling like hot cakes and the print media is vying for the most complete and exclusive story.

Philippine peace negotiators to start where they left off

Philippine peace negotiators to start where they left off OSLO, Norway (AP): Philippine leftist rebels and government negotiators ended their first round of peace talks in two years on Monday with unexpected progress and a determination to see the process through. The four-day talks on ending their 32-year conflict marked the reopening of negotiations that collapsed in 1999. They came at a time of unrest in the Philippines over the arrest of ousted President Joseph Estrada.

'Flor Contemplacion Story' flawed but still respectable

'Flor Contemplacion Story' flawed but still respectable By Joko E.H. Anwar The Flor Contemplacion Story (**1/2 out of ****); Drama, 120 minutes; Starring Nora Aunor, Ian De Leon, Julio Diaz, Vina Moralez, Gloria Sevilla; Directed by Joel Lamangan; A Viva Films Presentation; In Tagalog and English with Indonesian subtitles JAKARTA (JP): The tragic story of a Filipino domestic worker who may have been wrongly hanged for murder in Singapore in 1995 opens this week in the capital's theaters.

Foundation promotes safe sex in flesh market

Foundation promotes safe sex in flesh market By Yoko N. Sari JAKARTA (JP): A poster saying "I know the right way, sweet and safe" with an illustration of two thumbs covered with condoms hangs in a room at the Kramat Tunggak red-light district center in North Jakarta. "It really touches my heart to see that the prostitutes hang that poster in their room. I have never thought that they would really want to do it," Adi Sasongko, director for health care of the Kusuma Buana Foundation said.

In search of a cure for the current moral crisis

In search of a cure for the current moral crisis By Mochtar Buchori JAKARTA (JP): In a recent discussion organized by Indonesian alumni of foreign universities, a lively session took place on the topic of the nation's current moral crisis. The discussion touched upon the problems of changing values and value systems, and difficulties in conducting effective moral education.

Ambon reborn from darkness in Tantyo's photos

Ambon reborn from darkness in Tantyo's photos Dewi Anggraeni, Contributor, Melbourne, Australia A photography exhibition consisting only of black and white works has a unique ability to draw its visitors' attention. The photographs, unencumbered by the sensual frills frequently offered by colors, and free of the risks of appearing kitsch, immediately draw the viewer's subconscious and perceptive capacities to the seriousness of the topic and the collective theme of the exhibition.

5 Negative Money Mindsets That Keep You From Climbing the Ladder to Wealth

Personal finance author Ramit Sethi argues that subconscious money scripts learned in childhood shape adults' financial decisions. The piece outlines five common negative money mindsets and offers practical steps to reframe them, from negotiating salaries more confidently to saving for meaningful goals. The article emphasises that changing mindsets can unlock earnings and long-term financial growth.

Urban development, good governance

Urban development, good governance Joris van Etten and Florian Steinberg, Institute for Housing and Urban Development Studies, Jakarta Regional Office, Ihsjro@pacific.net.id Currently over 6,000 participants from 189 countries are gathering in Bali to review the implementation of agreements made ten years ago during the Sustainable Development Conference in Rio de Janeiro. One of the most important documents agreed upon at that time was the Local Agenda 21.

The saga on the political stage

The saga on the political stage Lie Hua, Contributor, Jakarta First impression: This is really a tome, in the real sense of the word. When you consider the topic of discussion, it must be agreed that a book 10 times as thick as this one would not be enough to make an exhaustive discussion of the subject. Chinese-Indonesians have their roots in this country as far back as the 9th century A.D., when they began to arrive on this foreign shore in search of a new life.

Neighbouring Countries Face Fuel Emergency, Bahlil Claims Domestic Stocks Are Secure

Indonesian Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Bahlil Lahadalia has assured that the country's fuel stocks remain secure despite emergency measures in neighbouring Malaysia and the Philippines amid Middle East conflicts disrupting global oil supplies. He highlighted diversification of crude oil imports away from the Middle East, which previously accounted for 20% of Indonesia's needs, and urged prudent use of LPG, 70% of which is imported. The regional turmoil has led to significant subsidy increases in affected countries, underscoring Indonesia's proactive stance to maintain energy stability.

'Posyandu' lacks volunteers, fails to enhance health services

'Posyandu' lacks volunteers, fails to enhance health services The Jakarta Post, Jakarta It was a Tuesday morning when a group of women gathered to chat on a narrow veranda of the house of a subdistrict head in Pangkalan Jati Baru, Depok. One might think that they were there for an arisan (monthly social gathering) to catch up with the local gossip. The topic of discussion was a little more weighty than that.

Summit strengthens ASEAN

Summit strengthens ASEAN JAKARTA (JP): The weekend summit that brought together leaders of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has strengthened the organization's stance on various issues, political observers say. Dewi F. Anwar of the Indonesian Institute of Sciences singled out ASEAN's refusal to include extraneous issues, such as East Timor, in its cooperation framework with other countries. The reluctance, she said, will help boost the group's leverage.

This new Indonesian startup is a cross between Uber and Avis

Renting vehicles is common practice in Indonesia’s holiday destinations like Bali, where sightseeing is a main draw and mobility is necessary. However, one doesn’t often hear of folks renting cars in megacities like Jakarta, as most of the time they just hop into one of the many taxis swarming the streets. It could also be due to the fact that the chaotic streets are intimidating, and navigating the city is a daunting task if you’re fresh off the plane.

'artconneXions' an arena for an exchange of views

'artconneXions' an arena for an exchange of views Christina Schott, Contributor/Jakarta "When I drive through Jakarta, my home city, I see it like my own house and I take a close look at the interior.

Chinese-Indonesian writers told tales of life around them

Chinese-Indonesian writers told tales of life around them By Myra Sidharta JAKARTA (JP): About two months ago an unusual book was launched by Kepustakaan Populer Gramedia, a publishing house related to the well-known Gramedia Pustaka Utama. It was a collection of works by different writers, but not one of them was present at the launch. The reason being they all passed away years ago.

E-mail challenges the 'sowan' tradition of Javanese people

E-mail challenges the 'sowan' tradition of Javanese people By Mochtar Buchori JAKARTA (JP): Sowan is a Javanese word for a face-to-face encounter with another person from a higher level of the social hierarchy. It has been practiced -- in both traditional and modern Javanese society -- that younger people, or people occupying lower ranks within the social hierarchy to present themselves regularly to older people or to someone higher up within the hierarchy.

Misperception on protected forests and mining

Misperception on protected forests and mining P.L. Coutrier, Executive Director Indonesia Mining Association A sad misperception with far reaching impacts on the future of the Eastern Part of Indonesia (KTI) is now in progress under the pretext of protecting the forestry area. What started this all? Mining companies never intentionally operate in protected forests.

Australia raids Indonesians' homes in anti-terrorist crackdown

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

Alternative medicine into the mainstream

Alternative medicine into the mainstream Emmy Fitri, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The growing popularity of alternative medicine can be attributed in part to an underlying distrust in what conventional medicine here has to offer. It also has something to do with our cultural beliefs in mysticism and the supernatural. Many people, even those caught up in a thoroughly modern lifestyle in urban Jakarta, have come to believe in the claims of alternative medical practitioners.

NU ends Congress, opposes amendment of Article 29

NU ends Congress, opposes amendment of Article 29 Tiarma Siboro, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The country's largest Muslim organization, the Nahdlatul Ulama (NU), closed its four-day congress on Sunday, with recommendations including opposing the planned amendment on Article 29 of the 1945 Constitution and supporting a direct presidential election.

Yusuf Susilo Hartono

Yusuf Susilo Hartono Contributor Jakarta Surakarta, better known as Solo, has a long cultural history, particularly in the arts. The city has a style of its own in the fields of dancing, shadow puppetry and bridal make-up, genres of art originating in the Surakarta palace. In modern painting, Solo once had artists who were greatly concerned with the state of the city, known the world over as one of the centers of Javanese culture.

Help for autistic kids a long way off

Help for autistic kids a long way off Simon Howland, Contributor, Jakarta A major breakthrough in autism research may lead to early detection and prevention of the condition but more support is needed for those battling the problem in the field if the revelation is to benefit Indonesia. Dr. Eric Courchesne and his team at the University of California discovered a biological development signaling the onset of autism; excessive growth of the brain in the first 12 months after birth.

Asian currencies off highs but still upbeat

Asian currencies off highs but still upbeat SINGAPORE (Reuters): Asian currencies shed most of their early gains yesterday, but remained well underpinned as the dollar softened against the yen on news of an unexpectedly large Japanese economic stimulus package. The International Monetary Fund's ringing endorsement of Malaysia's efforts to strengthen its economy and financial sector and improving ties between Indonesia and the IMF also cast a glow over the region.

Amien in one-horse debate race

Amien in one-horse debate race Muninggar Sri Saraswati, Jakarta Amien Rais was the only presidential candidate on Wednesday to answer the challenge to attend a debate organized by students at the University of Indonesia in Depok. Arriving at the university at about 2 p.m., Amien only had a few minutes to rest as more than 1,000 students and lecturers were impatient to see the debate begin.

Sampoerna's takeover highlights RI's potential: King

Sampoerna's takeover highlights RI's potential: King The government's efforts to put Indonesia back onto the radars of investors received a boost when U.S. tobacco giant Philip Morris International acquired PT HM Sampoerna in March for some US$5 billion. Louis Camilleri, CEO of Altria Group -- Philip Morris' parent company -- will on Sept. 15 deliver a speech at the Euromoney Global Conference in New York, to explain the group's experience in investing in Indonesia to other investors.

ASEAN breaks new ground

ASEAN breaks new ground By Meidyatama Suryodiningrat BANGKOK (JP): Though the adjective "historic" is ubiquitous in relation to high-level meetings, it aptly describes the fifth ASEAN Summit here. Many "firsts" will occur at this meeting which will make it truly historic in every sense of the word.

An economic perspective of corruption

An economic perspective of corruption Barlev Nicodemus, Brussels One of Indonesia's main problems since becoming a democracy has been corruption. Numerous seminars, workshops and public discussions on the topic have been held. Different approaches have been tried to tackle the problem, including the religious approach. Nahdlatul Ulama, the country's largest Muslim organization, once proposed allowing those involved in corruption to be buried without prayers.

Rezit breeds rare peacock pheasant

Rezit breeds rare peacock pheasant Bambang M, Contributor/Yogyakarta As late as the 1990s, the Bornean peacock-pheasant (Polyplectron schleiermacheri), which is only found in the forest of Kalimantan, remained a mystery to both international and Indonesian avian experts. As the bird is extremely sensitive to human contact, to study it was often to risk its life. Thus, a pair of peacock-pheasants are worth about US$15,000 on the international market.

FOR FOCUS ISSUE JULY 21

FOR FOCUS ISSUE JULY 21 ;JP;HEN; ANPAc..r.. Consultation-HR-focus Grace Emilia Contributor Jakarta More firms turn to professionals to improve their HR Consulting businesses in Indonesia have been growing rapidly during the past decade as more and more companies turn to their services to help them survive and grow in a fast-changing market.

FOR FOCUS ISSUE JULY 21

FOR FOCUS ISSUE JULY 21 ;JP;HEN; ANPAc..r.. Consultation-HR-focus Grace Emilia Contributor Jakarta More firms turn to professionals to improve their HR Consulting businesses in Indonesia have been growing rapidly during the past decade as more and more companies turn to their services to help them survive and grow in a fast-changing market.

FOR FOCUS ISSUE JULY 21

FOR FOCUS ISSUE JULY 21 ;JP;HEN; ANPAc..r.. Consultation-HR-focus Grace Emilia Contributor Jakarta More firms turn to professionals to improve their HR Consulting businesses in Indonesia have been growing rapidly during the past decade as more and more companies turn to their services to help them survive and grow in a fast-changing market.

FOR FOCUS ISSUE JULY 21

FOR FOCUS ISSUE JULY 21 ;JP;HEN; ANPAc..r.. Consultation-HR-focus Grace Emilia Contributor Jakarta More firms turn to professionals to improve their HR Consulting businesses in Indonesia have been growing rapidly during the past decade as more and more companies turn to their services to help them survive and grow in a fast-changing market.

FOR FOCUS ISSUE JULY 21

FOR FOCUS ISSUE JULY 21 ;JP;HEN; ANPAc..r.. Consultation-HR-focus Grace Emilia Contributor Jakarta More firms turn to professionals to improve their HR Consulting businesses in Indonesia have been growing rapidly during the past decade as more and more companies turn to their services to help them survive and grow in a fast-changing market.

FOR FOCUS ISSUE JULY 21

FOR FOCUS ISSUE JULY 21 ;JP;HEN; ANPAc..r.. Consultation-HR-focus Grace Emilia Contributor Jakarta More firms turn to professionals to improve their HR Consulting businesses in Indonesia have been growing rapidly during the past decade as more and more companies turn to their services to help them survive and grow in a fast-changing market.

FOR FOCUS ISSUE JULY 21

FOR FOCUS ISSUE JULY 21 ;JP;HEN; ANPAc..r.. Consultation-HR-focus Grace Emilia Contributor Jakarta More firms turn to professionals to improve their HR Consulting businesses in Indonesia have been growing rapidly during the past decade as more and more companies turn to their services to help them survive and grow in a fast-changing market.

TV today

TV today TVRI 2:00 p.m. News: Berita 14 2:30 Music 2:35 Children's Film: Thundercats 3:05 Orchestra Film 3:30 Science Film 4:00 Regional News 4:30 Creative Program: Karya Kita 5:00 Arabic Lessons 5:30 TV Series: Man From Uncle 6:00 News: Lintasan Berita 6:05 My Country: Rona Nusantara 6:15 Sports 6:30 TVRI News (in English) 7:00 Evening News 7:35 Comedy: Sawung Galing 8:00 News: Lintasan Berita 8:05 Comedy: Sawung Galing (contd.) 8:20 Koran Recital 8:30 Religious Teachings: Islam 9:00 World...

Military threatens to get tougher

Military threatens to get tougher JAKARTA (JP): The Armed Forces (ABRI) warned yesterday that it would not hesitate to use force in quelling future disturbances similar to those which rocked Jakarta over the weekend. ABRI Chief of Sociopolitical Affairs Lt. Gen. Syarwan Hamid said troopers had a standing order not to open fire when dealing with the rioters last weekend. However, he hinted that the order could be withdrawn if the violence persists.

Understanding the sociology of religious terrorism

Understanding the sociology of religious terrorism Ahmad Najib Burhani, Jakarta A number of religious leaders in Indonesia, such as those in the National Movement against Terrorism (GNAT), have claimed that the Bali bomb blasts and religion are two totally separate issues. Many Muslim leaders insist that jihadism, terrorism, and martyrdom have nothing to do with Islam. This, however, is a highly debatable topic and should be looked at seriously.

Should the winning party lead the government?

Should the winning party lead the government? By Aleksius Jemadu BANDUNG (JP): As the vote count by the General Elections Commission (KPU) approaches its end and victory for the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI Perjuangan)) becomes a certainty, speculation about the presidential election has become the hot topic. It is very likely that PDI Perjuangan will not be able to obtain an outright majority of seats in the House of Representatives (DPR).

Logistical nightmares

Logistical nightmares A recent study of 75 large export-oriented companies at four of Indonesia's largest seaports concluded that logistics services accounted for an average of 14 percent of total production costs. This finding, released on Monday, simply confirms what most businesspeople have long complained about -- the relative high cost of doing business here -- that makes exports less competitive internationally.

Winds of change in Malaysia

Winds of change in Malaysia Maxine Hon Jakarta Six years ago this month, Malaysia was plunged into its greatest political and social upheaval since the riots of the late 1960s. Now, that saga's closing chapter has apparently been written.

Creating a media policy for cyberspace

Creating a media policy for cyberspace Vishnu K. Mahmud, Contributor, Jakarta, vmahmud@yahoo.com The Internet is an amazing cyberhighway of information. People can access practically anything online, from the latest news to e-mail greetings from loved ones. However, with the vast openness and freewheeling nature of the World Wide Web come dubious sites that may upset more then a few people.

Children exposed to puppet show in Wayang Week

Children exposed to puppet show in Wayang Week By Stevie Emilia JAKARTA (JP): Still clad in their uniforms, a number of elementary school students attentively watched the stage as a puppeteer told an entertaining story about the adventures of Si Kancil (Deer Mouse).

Islamic state not necessary, say scholars

Islamic state not necessary, say scholars Tidak Ada Negara Islam, Surat-Surat Politik Nurcholish Madjid - Mohamad Roem (There is no Islamic state, Political Letters between Nurcholish Madjid and Mohamad Roem); Editor: Agus Edi Sasono; Djambatan, Jakarta 1997; xxvii + 123 pages; Rp 10,000 JAKARTA (JP): The Islamic State has long been the subject of intense debate among Indonesian political observers.

The Listening Post

The Listening Post "Building English Skills Through Newspaper + Radio" Produced by American Language Center in cooperation with The Jakarta Post and Radio Sonora FM 100.9 Mhz * Write it out by hand or print it? The answer to this question is easy, in Canada or the US: if it's important, use a machine to write it. What surprised me when I first arrived in Jakarta was that handwritten documents are still given precedence in Indonesia.

The AIDS virus laid bare in layman's language

The AIDS virus laid bare in layman's language AIDS By Dr. Sally Halim Msc. (OM) Published by Yayasan Obor Indonesia, 1995 pp. 41 JAKARTA (JP): Categorized as a rapidly spreading disease for which no cure has been found, AIDS is a topic that fills people with dread the world over. Books have been written in every language, including Indonesian, but the bulk of them make sense only to people in the medical world and are rarely targeted at or easily understood by the layman.

'Mitra' magazine provides forum for thinkers

'Mitra' magazine provides forum for thinkers By Stevie Emilia JAKARTA (JP): Looking at the cover of the first edition of the relaunched Mitra magazine, Budaya Pemilu, Budaya Pemalu (the Election Culture, the Shy Culture), one might assume the magazine is just one of many new publications hitting the newsstands. But that would be a wrong assumption. Mitra is a quarterly journal of culture and philosophy published by the Mitra Budaya Indonesia Foundation.

Batam autonomy

Batam autonomy worries investors BATAM, Riau: Implementation of regional autonomy on Batam island is worrying investors from neighboring Singapore. Like businesspeople from other parts of the world, Singaporeans have not yet received sufficient information about the autonomy that Indonesia's central government gave to regencies one year ago.

Traditional or alternative methods for our students?

Traditional or alternative methods for our students? Sunitha Girish, Bekasi, West Java What kind of education system should we adopt? Should we choose traditional methods or the alternatives? Does it even make a difference?

Traditional or alternative methods for students?

Traditional or alternative methods for students? Sunitha Girish Bekasi West Java What kind of education system should we adopt? Should we choose traditional methods or the alternatives? Does it even make a difference?

Yogyakarta artist likens reform to fashion trend

Yogyakarta artist likens reform to fashion trend By Putu Wirata DENPASAR, Bali (JP): "Reform", which, as a word proper and a yell, is expected to bring about a change for the better in our social and political lives, and after Soeharto's fall, it has been shouted by Indonesians in places across the country. Unfortunately, it is nothing but fashion.

How to Check BLT Kesra 2026 via Mobile Phone and Laptop: Is It Really Being Disbursed Again?

Rumours circulating on social media suggest that the BLT Kesra welfare cash assistance programme will resume in April 2026, but official sources have debunked this as a hoax involving AI-generated imagery, with no government announcement confirming its continuation beyond 2025. The programme, aimed at low-income Indonesians in deciles 1 to 4, provided Rp900,000 in total for 2025 through three monthly instalments of Rp300,000 each, disbursed via postal services and state-owned banks. Citizens are advised to verify their eligibility using the Ministry of Social Affairs website or the Cek Bansos app to avoid scams, while exercising caution with unverified information.

Foreign media descend on troubled city

Foreign media descend on troubled city JAKARTA (JP): The capital, already swamped by students and antigovernment protesters, also dealt with an invasion of another kind -- foreign media bent on landing the scoop on the latest political developments. Anecdotal evidence and observations of The Jakarta Post found them crowding the city's hotels, whose occupancy rates had plunged to about 30 percent during the economic crisis but soared during the media blitz.

Moving toward era of green cars

Moving toward era of green cars M. Ihsan Darius Contributor/ Jakarta As market demands continue to change, players in the automotive industry must adapt to the changing situation. Vehicle designers continue to innovate. New technologies continue to be developed. Today, an awareness of the significance of protecting the environment has permeated the world. As they do not want to be responsible for environmental pollution, car manufacturers are seizing the opportunity to apply green technologies.

Short-Term Needs Solar + BSS, Long-Term Requires Geothermal-Nuclear

In response to rising energy prices and geopolitical disruptions, the author advocates for electrification as the key to resolving Indonesia's energy crisis, emphasising the need for a stable, affordable, and sustainable electricity system. For the short term, solar photovoltaic (PV) systems combined with Battery Energy Storage Solutions (BESS) offer a quick, modular, and cost-effective alternative to diesel generators, particularly in remote areas. Looking further ahead, geothermal and nuclear power are proposed to ensure long-term reliability and sustainability, reducing reliance on volatile fossil fuel imports.

The Kalam of a Madura Kyai

A Madura kyai, Dr. KH. Muhamad Aunul Abied Shah, has earned a PhD from Al-Azhar University with summa cum laude—the highest honour—with a publication recommendation, for a two-volume dissertation on Najmuddin al-Kātibī’s rational approach to kalām. The work, supervised by prominent Al-Azhar scholars, ties classical logic to modern philosophy and Indonesian Islamic thought, and is celebrated as a bridge between tradition and contemporary discourse.

First Aid: A knowledge base you will appreciate

First Aid: A knowledge base you will appreciate By Zatni Arbi JAKARTA (JP): In my job as an end user consultant, I've always tried to find software programs that will help PC users learn more about their own machines -- hardware and software -- so that they can become more independent. I'm positive that, in the long run, it will be much better to educate the users than to offer consultation. Recently, for instance, I assembled a PC for a colleague.

English learning should start from young age

English learning should start from young age By Setiono JAKARTA (JP): English language learning at elementary level has been increasingly perceived as a burdensome subject. School children lament the excessive tasks their teachers assign such as memorizing all the things stated in their textbooks. It is for this reason that the Minister of Education and Culture Juwono Sudarsono issued an instruction to evaluate the present English curriculum (Tempo, March 1, 1999).

Zelenskyy says US too often asks Ukraine, not Russia, for concessions

KYIV: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy voiced hope on Saturday (Feb 14) that US-brokered peace talks in Geneva next week would be substantive, but he said Ukraine was being asked “too often” to make concessions. He also accused Moscow of seeking to delay decisions by changing its lead negotiator.

Honest to the President for Wise and Prudent Decision-Making

President Prabowo Subianto demands honest and accurate reports from his aides to formulate wise policies that benefit all societal elements, warning against misleading submissions that could lead to fatal errors. The article highlights the dangers of inaccurate data through examples like a US bombing mistake in Iran and issues with Indonesia's MBG school feeding programme, where field realities often contradict official reports. This emphasis on transparency and integrity in governance is crucial for effective decision-making amid global challenges, such as the Middle East conflict's economic impacts.

Chinese New Year celebrations muted

Chinese New Year celebrations muted By I. Christianto JAKARTA (JP): Unlike many Chinese societies around the world, most Chinese-Indonesians celebrated the Lunar New Year quietly. They observed the long-awaited day indoors, having dinner with the family and praying in temples, deserting the capital's Chinatown area. Many of the rich -- who used to travel overseas to see in the Chinese New Year -- also stayed at home, as the falling rupiah had made trips abroad prohibitively expensive.

Automakers move into an era of green cars

Automakers move into an era of green cars M. Ihsan Darius, Contributor, Jakarta As market demands continue to change, players in the automotive industry must adapt to the changing situation. Vehicle designers continue to innovate. New technologies continue to be developed. Today, an awareness of the significance of protecting the environment has permeated the world.

Is the Rp900,000 BLT Kesra Payment in May 2026 Real or Not? Check the Facts!

Rumours circulating on social media about a Rp900,000 BLT Kesra payment in May 2026 have sparked public interest, but no official government announcement confirms this schedule. The BLT Kesra programme, aimed at boosting economic welfare, was disbursed as a one-time Rp900,000 (Rp300,000 monthly for three months) to 35 million low-income families from October to December 2025, and claims of its termination in 2026 have been debunked as hoaxes. Citizens are advised to verify information through official channels and check eligibility via government databases using NIK and family details, highlighting the importance of combating misinformation in social assistance programmes.

Trending: Prabowo Moves to Discipline Critics, Caustic Soda Access Tightened

President Prabowo Subianto's recent statements about disciplining critics and observers deemed "unpatriotic" have sparked significant controversy, with think tanks and civil society organisations condemning what they view as an anti-democratic stance. The remarks came shortly after activist Andrie Yunus of Kontras was attacked with caustic soda by unknown assailants, with government officials now calling for stricter controls on hazardous chemical distribution.

Liberalizing economic policies

Liberalizing economic policies Achmad Maulani, Contributor, Yogyakarta Mendobrak Sentralisme Ekonomi: Indonesia 1986 - 1992 (Breaking through Economic Centralism: Indonesia 1986 - 1992); By Rizal Mallarangeng; KPG, Jakarta, 2002; xxv + 269 pp. Economic liberalization is an old topic, but discussion on it has never ceased. A study on the policies of economic liberalization in Indonesia has usually come from the viewpoint of structuralism, in which the state is given a dominant role.

An expert's eye on problems, prospects for domestic politics

An expert's eye on problems, prospects for domestic politics Leadership and Culture in Indonesian Politics By R. William Liddle Allen and Unwin Pty Ltd., NSW, Australia. 314 pages Rp 40,000 JAKARTA (JP): R. William Liddle is no stranger to students of Indonesian politics. He is one of several well-known foreign political scientists whose main research interest is the Indonesian political system.

Deepening reforms

Deepening reforms The World Bank's briefing paper for Indonesian foreign creditors, who are scheduled to meet in Bali tomorrow, charts out an ever more challenging agenda of reforms at a time when the government's ability and credibility to take tough measures are declining.

Investors All Smiles as IHSG Soars 3.39% to 7,200 in Morning Session

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) surged 3.39% to 7,207.16 points in the morning session, driven by a US-Iran ceasefire agreement easing Middle East tensions and FTSE's decision to maintain Indonesia's stock market rating. This rally boosted trading volume to Rp12.99 trillion, with infrastructure, raw materials, and financial sectors leading gains, while energy stocks weakened amid a sharp drop in oil prices. The positive sentiment echoed across Asian markets, potentially curbing global inflation and influencing central bank policies.

Is it Permissible to Shorten the Final Tahiyat Recitation in Tarawih Prayers?

The article discusses the permissibility of shortening the final Tahiyat recitation during Tarawih prayers, particularly in situations where prayers are performed at a fast pace. While adhering to the essential elements of the prayer is crucial, it is permissible to recite only the obligatory phrases of the Tahiyat to maintain the prayer's validity. The article also outlines the proper way to perform Tarawih prayers, including the options of performing them in sets of two or four rak'ahs.

Young women writers break through convention

Young women writers break through convention Susi Andrini, Contributor, Ubud, Bali She writes about wild sexuality and female genitalia -- lush and weird things considered taboo under "conventional" literary laws. But Ayu Utami's award-winning debut novel Saman shook the Indonesian literary stage like a hurricane. Using vulgar language here and there and unveiling the deepest yearnings of women's sexuality, Ayu is considered the "naughty girl" of the contemporary Indonesian literary scene.

Bandung Mayor Ensures Transparent and Child-Rights-Focused New Student Admission System for 2026

The Bandung City Government is refining the implementation of the 2026/2027 New Student Admission System (SPMB) through public socialisation events, with Mayor Muhammad Farhan emphasising that it is more than mere administration but a vital step in ensuring equitable educational rights for all children. He highlighted key principles including justice, transparency, integrity, and humane service, while advocating for digital enhancements to prevent data manipulation and calling for active societal participation to disseminate accurate information. This initiative aims to foster a fair, high-quality education system that supports the development of competitive and character-building generations in line with Bandung's vision of excellence, openness, trustworthiness, progress, and piety.

Shoes Priced at Rp179,000, Stradenine Not Involved in People's School Project

The owner of Indonesian shoe brand Stradenine has clarified that his company is not involved in the Ministry of Social Affairs' Rp27.5 billion procurement for 39,345 pairs of school shoes under the People's School programme for the 2026 fiscal year, despite social media speculation linking the brand to the project due to a ceremonial photo. Stradenine shoes retail for Rp179,000 to Rp300,000, far below the initial Rp700,000 per pair budget estimate, which has sparked public controversy over perceived overpricing. Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf assured that the procurement will proceed transparently through open tender, resulting in lower final costs, and emphasised strict adherence to integrity to avoid any deviations in this presidential priority programme.

Nadiem Demanded 18 Years in Prison for Hindering Education Quality

Prosecutors have demanded an 18-year prison sentence for former Indonesian Education Minister Nadiem Makarim over alleged corruption in the procurement of Chromebook-based laptops from 2020 to 2022, claiming it prioritised personal gain and severely impaired the quality and equity of education nationwide. The case involves significant state losses exceeding Rp 1.5 trillion and unexplained wealth increases of over Rp 4.8 trillion, with Nadiem also facing a Rp 1 billion fine and substantial restitution demands. This high-profile prosecution underscores ongoing efforts to combat corruption in Indonesia's strategic education sector.

Farocki keeps distance from his films' characters

Farocki keeps distance from his films' characters John Badalu, Contributor, Jakarta Speaking to German filmmaker Harun Farocki is easy. Despite his status as one of the pioneers in the art of documentary filmmaking in his country, he is down-to-earth. There are hints of his impressive intellect in his conversation, but he is far from pretentious. For a moment, he reminisced about the five years he spent in Indonesia as a child, especially in the capital.

Where to go in Jakarta:

Where to go in Jakarta: Exhibitions * Photo: Indonesian Press Photo Service's (Ipphos) photos (1945 - 1950), I See Gallery, The Polish cultural center, Jl. Diponegoro, Central Jakarta, until Feb. 28. * Painting Bramasto's Collections 1939-1996, Gallery Twilite Cafe, Jl. Kemang Raya No. 24A, South Jakarta (Phone: 7194270), until Feb. 28. * Ceramics: Noor Sudiyati Agung, Galeri Lontar, Jl. Utan Kayu No.68H, Jakarta Timur (Phone: 8573388), Tuesday to Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., until Feb. 28.

'Accidents' do happen: Teen pregnancy

'Accidents' do happen: Teen pregnancy Rani Lukita, Contributor, Jakarta The topic of teenage pregnancy is being carried into local living rooms by the TV drama series Pernikahan Dini, which some consider yet more proof that local teenagers are succumbing to western "values" in experimenting with sex. Of course, it's an age-old problem; the hit Saturday night prime-time TV series was inspired by a 1980s' movie of the same title, which was an updated adaptation from a popular novel by Mira W.

Gold Mine Exploration in Aceh - Darma Henwa Schedules Subsidiary IPO

PT Darma Henwa Tbk (DEWA) is planning an initial public offering (IPO) for its subsidiary Gayo Mineral Resources (GMR) to fund the development of gold and copper exploration assets in Aceh, with commercial operations targeted for 2029. The company aims to evolve into an investment holding firm, expanding beyond coal into other minerals like nickel and bauxite, amid strong financial performance including a 519% year-on-year profit surge to Rp239.14 billion in 2025. Analysts at Samuel Sekuritas recommend buying DEWA shares with a target price of Rp800, citing improved earnings projections.

Art market receives a welcome boost from speculators

Art market receives a welcome boost from speculators Yusuf Susilo Hartono, Contributor, Jakarta While development of Indonesia's fine art market has lately been marked by attempts to give young painters a boost through exhibitions and home auctions, the arts community has witnessed three notable phenomenons during this year.

Subsidised Fuel Prices to Remain Unchanged Until End of 2026, Purbaya States Budget is Sufficient

The Indonesian government has reaffirmed its commitment to keeping subsidised fuel prices, including Pertalite and solar, stable through the end of 2026 to safeguard economic stability and consumer purchasing power, provided global oil prices do not exceed US$97 per barrel on average. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa highlighted that the budget can withstand oil prices up to US$100 per barrel until year-end, with fiscal adjustments maintaining the state budget deficit at around 2.9% and a substantial Rp420 trillion buffer available if needed. This assurance counters concerns over global uncertainties, bolstered by strong 20.7% year-on-year tax revenue growth and robust domestic demand driving the economy.

Human touch: The missing language

Human touch: The missing language By Yohana Susanto JAKARTA (JP): When we first come into this world, the only language we can comprehend is touch. It is said that touch is so vital that new moms and dads have been bombarded with the importance of having hands-on contact with their babies. Loving, caressing and mothering babies is absolutely necessary for their survival. In 1915, Dr. Henry Dwight Chapin reported that in orphanages throughout the U.S.

Habibie's chance for VP post still shaky: Expert

Habibie's chance for VP post still shaky: Expert By Asip Agus Hasani YOGYAKARTA (JP): Thirteen names have so far emerged as Indonesia's next vice presidential hopefuls, but due to the traditional secrecy surrounding the election of the second top post, not many people know who has the most chance. Among the names are incumbent Try Sutrisno, State Minister of Research and Technology B.J. Habibie, Minister of Information R.

Including the disabled in social and economic activities

Including the disabled in social and economic activities Inge Komardjaja Research Institute for Human Settlements Bandung, West Java The recent seminar on "Income generation through the inclusion of people with disabilities in the community" was conducted by the Belgian non-governmental organization, the Platform for Disability and Development Cooperation (PHOS), in Brussels between Nov. 4 and Nov. 6. The topic was related to the upcoming International Day of the Disabled on Dec.

Including the disabled in social and economic activities

Including the disabled in social and economic activities Inge Komardjaja Research Institute for Human Settlements Bandung, West Java The recent seminar on "Income generation through the inclusion of people with disabilities in the community" was conducted by the Belgian non-governmental organization, the Platform for Disability and Development Cooperation (PHOS), in Brussels between Nov. 4 and Nov. 6. The topic was related to the upcoming International Day of the Disabled on Dec.

Including the disabled in social and economic activities

Including the disabled in social and economic activities Inge Komardjaja Research Institute for Human Settlements Bandung, West Java The recent seminar on "Income generation through the inclusion of people with disabilities in the community" was conducted by the Belgian non-governmental organization, the Platform for Disability and Development Cooperation (PHOS), in Brussels between Nov. 4 and Nov. 6. The topic was related to the upcoming International Day of the Disabled on Dec.

Comic strips spread the word about AIDS threat

Comic strips spread the word about AIDS threat By Emma Cameron JAKARTA (JP): Sompret and Kampret are cool. They wear baggy jeans and slouch hats and have goatees. Because they are so cool they inject drugs and because they are friends, they share everything, including needles -- and HIV.

Myanmar is ASEAN's test case

Myanmar is ASEAN's test case By Rizal Sukma JAKARTA (JP): Before the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) decided to accept Myanmar as a member, there had been concerns raised that the country's membership in the Association would pose a number of challenges, if not problems, for ASEAN. There were differences in opinion, especially between ASEAN and Western countries, on the question whether Myanmar was "suitable" or not to become a member of ASEAN. The West (especially, the U.S.

Involving the disabled in social, economic life

Involving the disabled in social, economic life Inge Komardjaja, Research Institute for Human Settlements, Bandung, West Java The recent seminar on "Income generation through the inclusion of people with disabilities in the community" was conducted by the Belgian non-governmental organization, the Platform for Disability and Development Cooperation (PHOS), in Brussels between Nov. 4 and Nov. 6. The topic was related to the upcoming International Day of the Disabled on Dec.

Komnas HAM Member Reveals Andrie Yunus's Condition at RSCM

Komnas HAM member Amiruddin Al Rahab reported that Andrie Yunus, Deputy Coordinator of Kontras, has shown improvement following treatment for severe acid burns sustained in a deliberate attack on 12 March 2026. Officials are pressing police to conduct a thorough investigation that reaches beyond the immediate perpetrators to identify the masterminds, whilst seeking government assistance to cover medical costs through victim protection schemes.

A. T. Mahmud: Father of children's songs

A. T. Mahmud: Father of children's songs Joko E.H. Anwar, Contributor, Jakarta Many parents sing Cicak di Dinding (Lizard on the Wall) when their children first start learning to speak. However, many never realize who composed this simple, yet beautiful song. When the name A.T. Mahmud is mentioned, parents quickly remember the figure who has composed over 500 songs, many of which are destined to become classics.

Govt rejects Aceh referendum

Govt rejects Aceh referendum JAKARTA (JP): Minister of Law and Legislation Affairs Yuzril Ihza Mahendra said on Thursday the government would not offer a referendum in seeking solution to the Aceh problem. "The government has to comply with the State Policy Guidelines (GBHN) which stipulates a special autonomy for the province. If Aceh has to hold a referendum, the People's Consultative Assembly decree on GBHN has to be revised.

Facing the religious dilemma in education

Facing the religious dilemma in education Simon Marcus Gower Director Research and Development Harapan Bangsa School Banten, Tangerang Moral issues always have the potential to degenerate into a hazardous quagmire. The likelihood for disagreements to arise, and even the potential for conflict to rear its ugly head, is considerable. What one man deems to be his morality may be construed as immoral by the next man.

Facing the religious dilemma in education

Facing the religious dilemma in education Simon Marcus Gower Director Research and Development Harapan Bangsa School Banten, Tangerang Moral issues always have the potential to degenerate into a hazardous quagmire. The likelihood for disagreements to arise, and even the potential for conflict to rear its ugly head, is considerable. What one man deems to be his morality may be construed as immoral by the next man.

The Listening Post

The Listening Post "Building English Skills Through Newspaper + Radio" Produced by American Language Center in cooperation with The Jakarta Post and Radio Sonora FM 100.9 Mhz * "Turkey in Turmoil," a cause for concern throughout both NATO and the European Union, as Turkey has long been a member of the former, and fervently wishes to join the latter.

The Listening Post

The Listening Post "Building English Skills Through Newspaper + Radio" Produced by American Language Center in cooperation with The Jakarta Post and Radio Sonora FM 100.9 Mhz "Turkey in Turmoil," a cause for concern throughout both NATO and the European Union, as Turkey has long been a member of the former, and fervently wishes to join the latter.

Indonesia needs to formulate country policy for WTO: Khor

Indonesia needs to formulate country policy for WTO: Khor The World Trade Organization (WTO) general council agreed, early this month in Geneva, on the "July Package" that set a framework for the Doha Round, which had been in trouble since the collapse of the ministerial meeting in Cancun, Mexico about a year ago. Third World Network (TWN) director Martin Khor, who was on a three-day visit to Indonesia last week, spoke with The Jakarta Post's Zakki P.

Shocking Admission from Tanah Abang Traders: This Year is the Toughest!

Traders at Jakarta's Tanah Abang market are facing unprecedented challenges this year, with sales plummeting due to the global impacts of the Middle East conflict driving up prices of essential goods like plastics used for packaging. Regular customers are buying significantly less, forcing merchants to rely on live selling platforms such as TikTok and Shopee, yet even these efforts are yielding fewer purchases amid declining consumer purchasing power. This downturn signals a broader erosion of the market's former glory, particularly post-Eid, highlighting vulnerabilities in Indonesia's retail sector to international economic pressures.

How military calls the shots in Indonesian cinema

How military calls the shots in Indonesian cinema Film, Ideologi dan Militer: Hegemoni Militer dalam Sinema Indonesia (Film, Ideology and the Military: The Military Hegemony in Indonesian Cinema); By Budi Irawanto; Media Pressindo-Yogyakarta, October 1999; xxiv + 221 pages. JAKARTA (JP): Civilian-military relations have experienced changes during Indonesia's short history.

Future of ASEAN

Future of ASEAN Call it by chance or by design, the flurry of ASEAN meetings starting on Tuesday will coincide with the final week of the one- month long presidential campaign. For incumbent President Megawati Soekarnoputri who is running for re-election, it will be her last chance to steal the limelight from the international community prior to the July 5 presidential election.

Your Letters

Your Letters On street vendors Chris Ashton's letter Street vendors and tourism (The Jakarta Post, April 2, 1994) is shocking. His remarks are insulting and remind us of "The ugly American." The street vendors of Jakarta are what they are...but they are at home here. The meager income they get for a long day of hustling is well earned and Mr.

Promoting democracy in a transitional society

Promoting democracy in a transitional society By Mochtar Buchori JAKARTA (JP): In a recent discussion about democracy the participants heatedly debated the best methodology and approach to the topic. The following question ultimately divided the participants into two opposing groups: What is the best way of promoting democracy at this stage of our political development?

Most Indonesian schools struggling with bilingual education issue

Most Indonesian schools struggling with bilingual education issue Eric E. Hallett, Jakarta In previous articles, Alex Tubagus and Jan Dormer addressed issues about bilingual education predominately within the domain of National Plus schools or their equivalent.

Is pornography a threat to society?

Is pornography a threat to society? What is pornography? Different people have different views on the subject. What one country considers art might be banned in another which views it as pornography. Religions, too, influence the way people perceive things. The following article and several others on Pages 2 and 4 discuss the topic. JAKARTA (JP): Pornography. The term is derived from the Greek words porne and graphos. Porne means prostitute and graphos means writing.

Here Are the Most In-Demand Professions in the AI Surge Era, with Fantastic Salaries!

Amid the rapid expansion of AI data centres, major tech companies like Alphabet, Microsoft, Meta, and Amazon are investing nearly US$700 billion in capital expenditure this year, creating high-demand roles for skilled workers in robotics, cooling systems, and electrical technicians. Demand for these professions has surged, with salaries increasing by 10-15% and potential six-figure earnings in the US, driven by a shortage of 1.9 million manufacturing workers projected by 2033. However, challenges such as an ageing workforce, geographic constraints, and security risks in conflict zones may impact future compensation packages.

Donors, poor nations get wakeup call from tsunami

Donors, poor nations get wakeup call from tsunami Agencies, Tokyo/Jakarta The tsunami that devastated Indian Ocean shores has provided a grim reminder to poor nations and the donors that help them, that spending money on disaster planning, now can save lives and cut relief and rebuilding costs later. The world has already offered more than US$7 billion in emergency relief for victims of the Dec.

Trash Blockades and Burning Waste – How Bali is Tackling Growing Trash Issues in Top Tourism Resorts

Bali faces escalating waste management challenges as its largest landfill, Suwung TPA, is scheduled to close permanently by July 2026, exacerbating issues in high-tourism areas like Denpasar, Sanur, Canggu, and Seminyak due to insufficient composting and recycling infrastructure. The provincial government plans to construct a Waste-to-Energy facility starting in July 2026, but in the interim, initiatives such as river trash barriers installed by the Bali Hotel Association and Sungai Watch, along with hotel-funded organic incinerators by PHRI members, are addressing immediate waste accumulation and illegal dumping. These efforts highlight the urgent need for sustainable solutions to protect Bali's environment and tourism industry amid growing waste volumes from resorts and communities.

TV today

TV today TVRI 6:00 a.m. Religious Teachings: Hikmah Pagi 6:25 Morning news 6:45 Healthy and Fit 7:00 News 7:30 TV Series 8:00 Women's Program: Tata Busana 8:30 Children's Stories: Putri Klara 9:00 English News Service 9:30 People and Events 10:00 Music: Album Minggu Ini 11:00 Children's Story 11:30 Comedy: Ria Jenaka 11:45 Sports: Dari Gelanggang Ke Gelanggang 12:45 p.m.

Midas-touch artist Sapto dies at 78

Midas-touch artist Sapto dies at 78 Sri Wahyuni, The Jakarta Post, Yogyakarta Flamboyant, multitalented artist and art dealer Sapto Hoedojo, who was recognizable anywhere with his gray, silky hair, died at his home here on Wednesday morning. He was 78. He is survived by a wife, an ex-wife, nine children and 17 grandchildren. Sapto died at about 5 a.m. with some of his children by his sick bed.

The Listening Post

The Listening Post "Building English Skills Through Newspaper + Radio" Produced by American Language Center in cooperation with The Jakarta Post and Radio Sonora FM 100.9 Mhz * Abner and I are assembling a list of the most common loan- words from other languages (primarily Dutch, Spanish, Portuguese and English, the "colonial languages" in Indonesian history) which have shifted their meanings, and could thus cause a problem for English learners who might try to use the English item in an...

How to Check BLT Kesra 2026 on cekbansos.kemensos.id: Is It Really Being Disbursed Again in April?

The Indonesian government launched the BLT Kesra programme in 2025 as a temporary cash aid to boost household purchasing power and national economic growth, targeting 35 million beneficiary families in the lowest welfare deciles with Rp300,000 monthly for three months. Recent social media rumours claiming a new disbursement in April 2026 have been debunked as hoaxes by the Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs, with no official announcement of continuation for this year. Beneficiaries can verify their status via the official Kemensos portal, highlighting the importance of relying on verified sources amid widespread misinformation.

Dealing with environmental problems is not that simple

Dealing with environmental problems is not that simple By Priscilla Hon The imperatives of state sovereignty and demands for some level of international governance of the environment are two opposing trends at work. SINGAPORE: Recently, the haze in South-east Asia has become a regional obsession, second only to the financial crisis. The fires raging in Kalimantan and Sumatra caught international attention.

Thai PM's Muslim insurgency blame game a blunder: analysts

Thai PM's Muslim insurgency blame game a blunder: analysts Michael Mathes Agence France-Presse/Bangkok The Thai premier's attempt to shift blame onto Malaysia and Indonesia for his failure to quell an Islamic insurgency in southern Thailand was a blunder that threatened regional ties, analysts warned.

Focusing on the gimmicks used in the power struggle

Focusing on the gimmicks used in the power struggle By Mochtar Buchori JAKARTA (JP): Is it true that the recent Golkar congress was defiled by an acrid fight between the supporters of Akbar Tandjung and Edi Sudradjat? I personally think there is an element of truth in this allegation. It is obvious that a bitter fight to win control of the party took place between the two camps. What interests me is the manner in which this struggle was carried out.

Goethe's new venue to refresh cultural ties

Goethe's new venue to refresh cultural ties Christina Schott, Contributor, Jakarta East meets West: A German choreographer experiences new dance elements by cooperation with Javanese dancers. Music meets literature: An Indonesian composer creates solo music performances inspired by German poems. Modern meets tradition: Indonesian students perform a traditional German theater play - about corruption in a small town.

Not Programmers! These Are the Most In-Demand Professions in the AI Era

Amid the AI boom, demand for data centres is surging, with tech giants like Alphabet, Microsoft, Meta, and Amazon committing nearly US$700 billion in capital expenditure this year to build these facilities, creating thousands of jobs in construction, electrical work, and specialised technical roles. Analysis from Randstad shows explosive growth in demand for robotics technicians (107% from 2022-2026), HVAC engineers (67%), and industrial automation technicians (51%), driving wage increases of 10-15% and even six-figure salaries due to skill shortages. While opportunities abound, challenges like an ageing workforce, geographic constraints, and security risks in conflict zones could impact future compensation and talent attraction.

Is Beijing a foe or friend?

Is Beijing a foe or friend? At a conference last Friday sponsored by The Jakarta Post and the Asia-Pacific Economics Group, two experts argued that China is not likely to pose a threat to its ASEAN neighbors. Our Asia correspondent Harvey Stockwin, another speaker at the conference, agrees and disagrees with the conclusion. This is the first of two articles.

Wary investors tell government to clear up autonomy uncertainty

Wary investors tell government to clear up autonomy uncertainty JAKARTA (JP): Inadequate preparations for decentralization of political and economic power combined with the slow pace of debt restructuring and asset sales are hindering new investment and economic recovery, businesspeople, analysts and diplomats warned on Wednesday.

Sukarno and the Sept. 30 movement

Sukarno and the Sept. 30 movement Harry Bhaskara The Jakarta Post Jakarta hbkc@centrin.net.id A lot has been said openly about the 1965 "Sept. 30 Movement" -- the attempted putcsh and assassination of seven top military leaders which led to then president Sukarno's demise -- in the last four years, due to the reform movement and the downfall of former dictator Soeharto. Unlike before, foreign scholars' perspectives such as those of Donald Hindley, Bernhard Dahm, Ruth T.

Sukarno and the Sept. 30 movement

Sukarno and the Sept. 30 movement Harry Bhaskara The Jakarta Post Jakarta hbkc@centrin.net.id A lot has been said openly about the 1965 "Sept. 30 Movement" -- the attempted putcsh and assassination of seven top military leaders which led to then president Sukarno's demise -- in the last four years, due to the reform movement and the downfall of former dictator Soeharto. Unlike before, foreign scholars' perspectives such as those of Donald Hindley, Bernhard Dahm, Ruth T.

Can Gen Z Become an RT Head? Explanation on Whether It's Allowed or Not

The article explores the growing phenomenon of Generation Z individuals taking on roles as heads of Rukun Tetangga (RT), Indonesia's neighbourhood associations, challenging traditional views that favour more experienced seniors. It outlines the legal requirements, which primarily hinge on being at least 21 years old or married if younger, alongside other criteria like good character and community ties, making many Gen Z eligible. Highlighting advantages such as technological savvy and innovative ideas, the piece underscores how such leadership can inject fresh perspectives into community governance, supported by real-life examples of successful young leaders overcoming initial scepticism.

New book says Sukarno behind Sept. 30 movement

New book says Sukarno behind Sept. 30 movement Harry Bhaskara, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta, hbkc@centrin.net.id A lot has been said openly about the 1965 "Sept. 30 Movement" -- the attempted putcsh and assassination of seven top military leaders which led to then president Sukarno's demise -- in the last four years, due to the reform movement and the downfall of former dictator Soeharto. Unlike before, foreign scholars' perspectives such as those of Donald Hindley, Bernhard Dahm, Ruth T.

What does intervention mean in the Asia-Pacific?

What does intervention mean in the Asia-Pacific? By David Harries KUALA LUMPUR (JP): Intervention in the internal affairs of a sovereign state yet again showed its power to generate controversy and discomfort in a recent discussion here. The topic, not listed on the program, colored almost every session of the 11th annual Asia Pacific Roundtable early this month attended by more than 200 scholars and policy makers.

'Manga' comics more than meets the eye

'Manga' comics more than meets the eye Hera Diani, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta What can we say about the Japanese people? If the Japanese comics distributed here are anything to go by, then Japanese girls are all freaky and horny while the boys are all effeminate and fashion-conscious. And, most of all, their eyes are beautifully round and wide open, and -- except for Doraemon and Crayon Sinchan -- they all have out-of-this-world figures. That is just a playful generalization, of course.

Price hikes to help the poor, but the message is lost

Price hikes to help the poor, but the message is lost Simon Howland and Endy M. Bayuni, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The government insists that the massive hikes in fuel, telephone and electricity prices at the start of the year are aimed at helping the poor, and not to make their lives more miserable as critics claim.

'I'll stick to public relations'

'I'll stick to public relations' JAKARTA (JP): For 36-year-old Nadira Alatas, the second daughter of former foreign minister Ali Alatas, public relations is her world. After studying Political Science at New York University from 1983 to 1988 and obtaining a BA, she decided to quit the school that her father chose for her. She turned to another science, hospitality management, and studied at Paul Smith College in New York from 1987 to 1988 where she obtained an associate degree.

Riau Police Arrest International Network Courier, Drugs Worth Rp 31 Billion Seized

Riau Police, through the Satresnarkoba unit of Bengkalis Police Resort, thwarted a drug trafficking operation linked to a Malaysian network, arresting two suspects and seizing 14.95 kilograms of methamphetamine valued at Rp 14.95 billion and 40,146 ecstasy pills worth Rp 16.06 billion. The operation, initiated from community tips, highlights the police's commitment to eradicating narcotics syndicates, with no tolerance for either general perpetrators or internal police members, and underscores the international network's tactic of recruiting government insiders. The suspects face severe penalties under Indonesia's narcotics laws, potentially including life imprisonment or the death penalty, emphasizing the gravity of combating cross-border drug crimes.

Muslim youths go high-tech with Islamic propagation

Muslim youths go high-tech with Islamic propagation By Yudha Kartohadiprodjo JAKARTA (JP): Once seen as estranged, technology and religion are drawing closer together. In many cases, the credit goes to innovative young people. Religion courting technology has been seen since the birth of radio and television stations in Indonesia decades ago. Today, all stations air a great variety of religious programming.

Expert opinion? You'll have to decide for yourself

Expert opinion? You'll have to decide for yourself JAKARTA (JP): Every single day, people are bombarded with comments by observers on the continuing economic and political crises -- a topic that has been dominating the media since the trouble began in July 1997. But what do the people think about all this punditry? Do they really believe, or care about, every word of these "experts"? Or are they already fed up with the opinion overflow?

Iwan turns boardinghouse bedroom into his gallery

Iwan turns boardinghouse bedroom into his gallery By Matdon BANDUNG (JP): The mere mention of an art gallery evokes images of a comfortably spacious room where art works are on display. It may never have occurred to you that a relatively small room could also be been turned into a gallery. If you walk up Jl. Dago (also known as Jl. H.

Gerindra to Summon and Try Jember DPRD Member for Playing Games and Smoking During Meeting

The Gerindra Party will summon and try its Jember DPRD member, Achmad Syahri Assidiqi, after a viral video showed him playing a mobile game and smoking during a meeting on stunting and public health. The examination is scheduled for Friday at the party's central office, highlighting concerns over legislative ethics and discipline. The Jember DPRD leadership has also apologised for the incident and indicated potential administrative sanctions, with the party set to impose internal disciplinary measures.

Assessing the benefits of flat tax on businesses

Assessing the benefits of flat tax on businesses Agam Fatchurrochman, Nottingham, UK Today's hot topic in the business community is that the government is getting ready to revise the tax laws of 2000, particularly regarding the proposal for applying a flat tax rate to provide business and fiscal incentives for public companies. The flat rate, as proposed, would be set at 30 percent while public companies would be taxed at 20 percent to 25 percent.

Politicians, experts split over Wiranto

Politicians, experts split over Wiranto JAKARTA (JP): Coordinating Minister for Political Affairs and Security Gen. Wiranto, now under the spotlight over the East Timor debacle, attended a routine Cabinet meeting on Wednesday, shrugging off mounting calls for his immediate resignation. Politicians and observers, meanwhile, were split over whether Wiranto should condone President Abdurrahman Wahid's demand that he leave the Cabinet.

'Recovering Japan means investment comeback for RI'

'Recovering Japan means investment comeback for RI' Following the recovery of the Japanese economy -- cumulatively the largest investor, donor and export destination for Indonesia -- the government will have more top Japanese government officials and businesspeople arriving here to sound out new investment opportunities. Japanese Ambassador Yutaka Iimura talked with The Jakarta Post's Kornelius Purba on Tuesday about the prospects for increased Japanese investment in Indonesia.

Marsinah case again in spotlight

Marsinah case again in spotlight Criminologist Mulyana W. Kusumah analyzes the tremendous social reactions to the Marsinah murder case following the recent unprecedented acquital of defendants in the case. JAKARTA (JP): The recent Supreme Court ruling that acquitted all nine people convicted of complicity in the brutal murder of labor activist Marsinah have received favorable reactions from legal experts, the mass media and other segments of society.

Kant and his relevance to modern Indonesian society

Kant and his relevance to modern Indonesian society Christina Schott, Contributor, Jakarta "He encouraged and gently guided people toward self-assessment," wrote German philosopher Johann Gottfried Herder once about his teacher, Immanuel Kant.

TV Today: Friday, January 3, 2003

TV Today: Friday, January 3, 2003 .TB.30" .90" TVRI .tb .30" .90" 6:00 a.m. News 8:30 Environment 9:00 TV Series: Janji Cinta 9:30 Talk Show 10:30 Quiz: Dibisikin 11:00 News 11:30 Music 12:00 p.m. News 1:00 Talk Show 2:30 TV Series Kisah Imam BUchori 3:03 Kids Channel 4:00 Religious Teachings 4:30 Quiz 5:00 Amru bin Ash 6:00 News 7:00 Talk Show 8:00 News 8:03 A Go Go Mas 9:00 News 9:30 Music: Jazz Club 11:00 Traditional Performance TPI 5:00 a.m.

International curriculum encourages students to speak up

International curriculum encourages students to speak up By Mehru Jaffer JAKARTA (JP): It has been the experience of a lifetime for young Gelly Augustin. An English language teacher at the Paramita High School in Tangerang, west of here, Gelly recently spent three months teaching Bahasa Indonesia to high school students at the Jakarta International School (JIS). "I learnt so much," gushed Gelly, who plans now to share her exciting insights with colleagues at Paramita.

Options in getting hooked into Internet

Options in getting hooked into Internet By Joe Mudnich JAKARTA (JP): The much hailed Information Superhighway has finally extended an on-ramp into Indonesia. With a modem and a PC or Macintosh, would-be cyberspace travelers in Indonesia can choose from several different Internet services to traverse computer systems world-wide. The information one can find on the Internet itself is almost unlimited. The on-ramp, though, is not without its tolls and potholes.

Art Agenda

Art Agenda Drawing exhibition: Satya Graha at Galeri Lontar, Jl. Utan Kayu 68H, East Jakarta; Until June 4. The experimental Galeri Lontar presents the compelling drawings of artist Satya Graha. Most of his drawings depict the human figure as he attempts to express the psychology of his subject matter. Painting exhibition: I want to be at Museum Puri Lukisan, Jl. Raya Ubud, Ubud, Bali; Until May 25. An imaginative exhibition of children's paintings held in Ubud's first art museum.

Attorney General's Office States Petral Corruption Case 2008-2015 Temporarily Caused Premium-Pertamax Fuel Price Hikes

The Attorney General's Office has revealed that alleged corruption at Pertamina's subsidiary Petral between 2008 and 2015 led to a temporary increase in the prices of Premium and Pertamax gasoline due to manipulated tender processes that extended supply chains and inflated costs. Seven suspects, including Petral and Pertamina officials as well as private company directors, are accused of colluding to rig procurement tenders for crude oil and refined products, resulting in significant losses to PT Pertamina. Authorities are currently calculating the exact financial damage with assistance from the Financial and Development Supervisory Agency (BPKP), highlighting ongoing efforts to combat corruption in Indonesia's state-owned energy sector.

Mizoguchi and the tragedy of women

Mizoguchi and the tragedy of women By Yenni Kwok JAKARTA (JP): The Japanese, traditionally known as chauvinistic, have a film director who was very interested in the struggle of women, Kenji Mizoguchi (1898-1956). His films will be shown for a week at Taman Ismail Marzuki Art Center, starting July 19. The audience will be able to determine how Mizoguchi differs from the other two featured Japanese directors, Akira Kurosawa and Yasujiro Ozu, especially in the choice of theme.

World and Japan's Eyes on the Malacca Strait, a Busier Route than Hormuz

The Malacca Strait has garnered significant international attention amid Middle East tensions disrupting the Strait of Hormuz, highlighting its role as an even busier chokepoint for global energy trade. Indonesia, bordering the strait, has clarified it will not impose fees on passing ships, upholding international maritime law, while Japan underscores Indonesia's strategic importance for regional stability and energy security. With higher oil volumes and ship traffic than Hormuz, the strait is vital for supplying Asia's major consumers, prompting Japan to provide patrol vessels to Indonesia's navy.

Jakarta offers residents less as it gets older

Jakarta offers residents less as it gets older By Ida Indawati Khouw JAKARTA (JP): Housewife Suryati is very much concerned that her daughter will not have the opportunity to experience the same childhood pleasure as she did when visiting the National Monument (Monas) Square in the heart of the capital as a child. Every weekend some 25 years ago, Suryati's parents took their children to the 80-hectare park, located just across from the presidential office complex, to enjoy the huge grassy area.

Querying Polygamy Award

Querying Polygamy Award Lily Zakiyah Munir, Center for Pesantren and Democracy Studies (CePDeS), Jakarta, lilyzm@hotmail.com Islamic teachings and being a Muslim are two different things, and are obviously not always identical. An Egyptian Muslim reformer, Muhammad Abduh (1849-1905), who worked on sociopolitical reform within Muslim societies, was amazed by the freedom and democracy in his exile living in Paris. He commented that "Muslims are in Egypt, but Islam is here".

Where to go in Jakarta: Monday, June 26, 2000

Where to go in Jakarta: Monday, June 26, 2000 Exhibitions * Painting Exhibition: Ekspresi Nuansa 15 untuk Kemanusiaan, at World Trade Center, Jl. Jend. Sudirman Kav. 29-31, South Jakarta (Phone: 5211320), until July 1. * Fine Arts Exhibition: Teka-Teki, Silang, Pendapat yang Digambarkan, by Isa Perkasa, Koong Gallery, Hotel Gran Melia Jakarta, Jl. H.R. Rasuna Said, South Jakarta, until August 10. * Painting Exhibition: Orientalisme dalam Gambar Kolonial, Galeri Nasional Indonesia, Jl.

President Megawati, Bush and `state terror'

President Megawati, Bush and `state terror' Kornelius Purba, Staff Writer, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta, korpur@yahoo.com While international news media organizations regard Swaziland's Ngweyama (King) Mswati III as a source of amusing news for his eccentric royal rules -- he once ordered young women to observe a sex ban and to wear woolen, "do not touch me" tassels for five years until 2006 -- President Megawati Soekarnoputri regards the tiny kingdom in southern Africa quite seriously.

Indonesia resource nationalism stirs before polls

JAKARTA (Reuters) - As Indonesia heads for elections, some politicians are taking a more nationalist line on the country's vast natural resources, a move that could scare off much-needed foreign capital amid the global credit crunch. While some industry experts see the rumblings over foreign investment as campaign trail posturing, the rhetoric highlights the risks for investors in Southeast Asia's biggest economy, particularly in its energy and mining sectors.

Collusion practices inflate medicine prices

Collusion practices inflate medicine prices By K. Basrie JAKARTA (JP): Although he no longer chairs the influential Indonesian Medical Association, Kartono Mohamad remains authoritative in medical affairs. He is now chief editor of Medika health magazine. When leading the association from 1985 to 1994, he submitted a list to the health minister at the time, Adhyatma, of 500 practitioners he alleged colluded with pharmaceutical industries and inflated medicine prices.

Bali's tourism industry destroying itself

Bali's tourism industry destroying itself Nyoman Suwela, Singaraja, Bali It is an undeniable fact that Bali's economy relies on tourism. The former director of Bali's tourist authority, Gde Pitana, once said that tourism is the bread for Bali. Furthermore, he said that tourism is not an ultimate goal but a means to achieve the goal that is primarily the welfare of Balinese and Indonesians, in general.

Bali's tourism industry destroys itself

Bali's tourism industry destroys itself Nyoman Suwela Singaraja, Bali It is an undeniable fact that Bali's economy relies on tourism. The former director of Bali's tourist authority, Gde Pitana, once said that tourism is the bread for Bali. Furthermore, he said that tourism is not an ultimate goal but a means to achieve the goal that is primarily the welfare of Balinese and Indonesians, in general.

Drost, still thinker in education

Drost, still thinker in education Damar Harsanto, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta At first glance, the old man looks too weak to walk steadily on his two legs. But, don't underestimate him. He will turn like a roaring lion, speaking loudly with strong zeal and straightforward statements. That is if you ask him about education. Meet Drost - a Jesuit priest whose full name is Joshepus Ignatius Gerardus Maria Drost. Drost who was born in Batavia, now Jakarta, on Aug.

Security business prospering, on the rise

Security business prospering, on the rise Hartono Iggi Putro, Contributor, Jakarta Since the terror attacks that rocked Bali, this country has witnessed serious threats to its security. Terrorist acts like bomb blasts and bomb hoaxes continue to make headlines, seemingly at regular intervals. Obviously, this situation keeps those managing government and private office compounds, hotels, shopping centers and other public facilities on alert for any uncalled-for eventuality.

Toward an East Asian economic community

Toward an East Asian economic community Ari A. Perdana, Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), Jakarta , Ari_Perdana@csis.or.id Since the mid-1990s, countries have adopted two routes toward economic globalization. The first is multilateral economic integration, with the Uruguay Round of the Generalized Agreement on Trade and Tariffs (GATT) as the most significant achievement. The second route is regional cooperation.

When Artificial Intelligence Enters the Campus

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is quietly transforming higher education in Indonesia, with surveys indicating widespread adoption among students and academics for tasks like summarising readings, preparing materials, and analysing data, yet only a minority of institutions have formal policies in place. While AI enhances human capabilities in teaching, research, and administration, it raises critical concerns over ethics, bias, privacy, and equity, necessitating robust governance, data literacy, and cultural shifts to ensure it supports rather than undermines academic integrity and social mobility. The rapid pace of AI integration outstrips regulatory maturity, underscoring the need for clear guidelines and responsible human oversight to preserve the core values of universities.

Aqua and the Test of Narratives: When Reputation Proves Stronger than Waves of Issues

The article examines how Aqua, Indonesia's leading bottled water brand, has maintained its market dominance despite repeated waves of negative publicity, including controversies over BPA, water source exploitation, and geopolitical boycott calls. It highlights the power of long-built consumer trust and personal experience over viral narratives, positioning Aqua as a symbol of reliability in daily life. This resilience underscores the importance of brand consistency and broad distribution in the face of public scrutiny in Indonesia's competitive consumer goods sector.

A peep into the potential of mutual fund investment

A peep into the potential of mutual fund investment Arif T. Syam, Contributor, Jakarta Mutual funds are getting more popular among investors these days their higher returns. Even though the profit that mutual fund investments can yield is generally still lower than the returns that can be made from stock investments, as an investment instrument mutual funds provide greater security in terms of the risks of losses. The problem lies in a fund manager's ability to manage investments.

Will CPNS 2026 Be Opened? Check the Estimated Selection Schedule and Requirements

The Indonesian government is finalising plans for the 2026 CPNS recruitment, with Minister Prasetyo Hadi confirming that formations are being mapped across ministries and regions to align with fiscal needs and national priorities. While no official announcement has been made, an estimated timeline suggests registration starting in August-September 2026, followed by administrative checks, competency tests, and final appointments by early 2027. Applicants must meet standard requirements including age limits, clean criminal records, and health standards, highlighting the ongoing efforts to streamline bureaucracy amid high public interest in civil service careers.

Nuclear waste in neighboring Russia vexes Norway

Nuclear waste in neighboring Russia vexes Norway By Rolf Soderlind OSLO (Reuter): When Russia and the Group of Seven industrialized states meet to discuss nuclear safety in Moscow on Friday, Norway will be anxiously watching their progress. Although Norway is not attending the summit, the Scandinavian country shares a 200 km (125 miles) frontier with Russia in the Arctic, home to the giant nuclear submarine bases of the former Communist superpower.

Samin Kitjot, the forgotten parking attendant boss

Samin Kitjot, the forgotten parking attendant boss By Johannes Simbolon JAKARTA (JP): He was feared by vehicle thieves across Jakarta for decades. He once reigned over parking lots throughout the city and created the unique parking attendant system the city administration continues to inflict upon Jakartans. His name is Samin Kitjot, a diminutive Betawiman who looks 40 despite his 85 years. His past glory is sadly gone. "I have nothing left," the former parking lot king explains.

Where to go in Jakarta:

Where to go in Jakarta: Exhibitions * Advertisement Postcard, Gallery RPC, Jl. Suryo 8 Kebayoran Baru, South Jakarta, until May 31. * Modern Indonesian Literature, Galeri Lontar, Jl. Utan Kayu 68H, East Jakarta (Phone: 8573388), May 31. * Photo Open Boundaries, in collaboration with British Council and Goethe Institute, Italian Cultural Institute, Jl. HOS Cokroaminoto 117, Central Jakarta (Phone: 3927531), Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., until May 27.

Finding meaning to catastrophe

Finding meaning to catastrophe Martin Kettle Guardian News Service London The modern era flatters itself that human beings can now know and shape almost everything about the world. But an event like the Indonesian earthquake exposes much of this for the hubris that it is. Perhaps we have talked so much about our civilization's potential to destroy the planet that we have forgotten that the planet also has an untamed ability to destroy civilization too.

Why peace education is urgent for Indonesia

Why peace education is urgent for Indonesia Anton Sudarisman, Balikpapan, East Kalimantan As the impacts of bomb attacks and sectarian conflicts linger, more and more Indonesians are aware of a culture of violence in our society. It is startling to realize that the permissiveness of society has allowed this culture to flourish. Why is it that violent and inhumane acts are screened daily on television?

New visa policy casts dark cloud over ailing Bali tourist industry

New visa policy casts dark cloud over ailing Bali tourist industry Jenny H. Backstrom, Contributor, Kuta, Bali It is still the rainy season in Bali. But other forms of clouds, confusion and uncertainty, currently cover the island. The hot topic causing this confusion is the much-debated new visa-on-arrival policy, to be effective Feb. 1. For Bali the policy is a potential nightmare.

Viewing religious rituals from cultural persperctive

Viewing religious rituals from cultural persperctive Kristian Tamtomo, Jakarta I would like to comment on the article titled Spiritual Materialism in the Haj Pilgrimage written by Dadi Darmadi (The Jakarta Post, Dec. 22). The article itself is well written and well argued. Yet, in my view, it fails to explain the reason why people are consumerist during their haj pilgrimage. This phenomena, I think, can be widened to include pilgrimages of other religions).

Bolstering continued professional development

Bolstering continued professional development Simon Marcus Gower, Executive Principal, High/Scope Indonesia School, Jakarta The concept of continued professional development (or CPD) is well and long established in many countries. It has become so much a part of professional life that many organizations, when recruiting, will quite naturally specifically look for a potential employee's previous commitment to CPD.

Continued professional development must be advanced

Continued professional development must be advanced Simon Marcus Gower Executive Principal High/Scope Indonesia School Jakarta The concept of continued professional development (or CPD) is well and long established in many countries. It has become so much a part of professional life that many organizations, when recruiting, will quite naturally specifically look for a potential employee's previous commitment to CPD.

A scholar's love affair with Indonesia

A scholar's love affair with Indonesia YOGYAKARTA (JP): For many Indonesian scholars, he is a living legend. For the international academic circle, he is their reference on Indonesia. Clifford Geertz, a 70-year old American anthropologist, has been associated with Indonesia for almost four decades. He is one foreign scholar who has brought Indonesia to the world's attention. The San Francisco-born Geertz is renowned as an ardent researcher of Indonesian, and Javanese society in particular.

In search of meaning to the grief of disasters

In search of meaning to the grief of disasters Martin Kettle, Guardian News Service, London The modern era flatters itself that human beings can now know and shape almost everything about the world. But an event like the Indonesian earthquake exposes much of this for the hubris that it is. Perhaps we have talked so much about our civilization's potential to destroy the planet that we have forgotten that the planet also has an untamed ability to destroy civilization too.

Damar Harsanto

Damar Harsanto The Jakarta Post Jakarta At first glance, the old man looks too weak to walk steadily on his two legs. But, don't underestimate him. He will turn like a roaring lion, speaking loudly with strong zeal and straightforward statements. That is if you ask him about education. Meet Drost - a Jesuit priest whose full name is Joshepus Ignatius Gerardus Maria Drost. Drost who was born in Batavia, now Jakarta, on Aug.

Livestock Investment Scheme Under Scrutiny: Sweet Promises Lead to Uncertainty

An Indonesian poultry investment scheme operated by Telurkita.com under PT Assasta Sampoerna Indonesia is facing allegations of defaulting on returns to partners, after luring investors with social media live streams and promises of fixed monthly income. Investigations reveal a stark contrast between the company's vibrant online presence and its actual operations, with the central office appearing deserted and partners receiving only sporadic payments. Legal experts highlight potential breaches of contract and fraud, prompting affected investors to unite and prepare collective reports to authorities like the East Java Police and the Financial Services Authority (OJK).

Senior broadcaster involves listeners in current issues

Senior broadcaster involves listeners in current issues JAKARTA (JP): You may know their voices well, but you don't really know who they are. Most radio broadcasters are indeed a mystery to their fans because, unlike TV presenters, their faces are hidden from listeners. Even though they are not as popular as their colleagues in television, radio broadcasters are indeed not less important. And it is not easy to be a good one.

Judges in Andrie Yunus Case: Could This Be a Special Operation?

In the ongoing military court trial of four TNI personnel accused of throwing acid on KontraS activist Andrie Yunus, the presiding judges have intensely questioned witnesses about potential orders from superiors or involvement in a special intelligence operation, amid claims that the act stemmed from personal resentment over Yunus's disruption of a closed TNI bill meeting. Witnesses from TNI's BAIS intelligence unit denied any directives, insisting the defendants acted on their own initiative due to feeling insulted by Yunus's actions against the military institution. This case highlights tensions between civil society activism and military sensitivities, raising questions about accountability within Indonesia's armed forces.

Spratly dispute needs democratic settlement (2)

Spratly dispute needs democratic settlement (2) The following article is based on a paper presented at the annual meeting of the Southeast Asian Program on Ocean Law (SEAPOL) in Bangkok on Dec. 13, 1994 by Dr. Hasyim Djalal. This is the second of two articles. JAKARTA (JP): To Indonesia, peace, stability and cooperation in the South China Sea is important for its development. Indonesia has just begun its second long term development program for the next twenty five years.

Lessons in the past of a new constitution

Lessons in the past of a new constitution By Lambert Giebels This is the second of two articles on the inception of Indonesian Constitution. BREDA, The Netherlands (JP): The 1945 Constitution embodies some elements of fascism and needs to be revised to meet public demands for political reform. The kind of fascism in the Constitution can be interpreted in fascism's original form, symbolized by the fasces (the ancient Roman symbol of authority: a bundle of rods tied around an ax).

New magazines square off for readers

New magazines square off for readers By Amir Sidharta JAKARTA (JP): The appearance of several new fashion/lifestyle magazines may be the opening salvo in an impending media war in the Indonesian market. Indonesian Bazaar was launched in extravagant fashion on May 31 at the Dharmawangsa in South Jakarta. Local magazine a+ made its debut the week before. They join dewi, Kosmopolitan and neo- in the local market. Which ones will stand the heat and rise to the top?

Bali's Nyepi festivities likely to be toned down

Bali's Nyepi festivities likely to be toned down By Putu Wirata DENPASAR, Bali (JP): The series of Nyepi festivities to be held today in Bali seem to be a subdued version of those of former years. In past years, the atmosphere of Nyepi, an annual Balinese Hindu event, could be felt in the villages around Denpasar, Kuta, Sanur, Ubud and other towns.

Colin Powell and judgment day for President Megawati

Colin Powell and judgment day for President Megawati Kornelius Purba, Jakarta U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell may well be the only one among 22 foreign ministers from the Asia-Pacific region and the European Union, scheduled to attend the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) on Friday in Jakarta, to miss paying a courtesy call on President Megawati Soekarnoputri, who will face electoral judgment day on Monday.

Iran War Sparks New "Apocalypse", H&M-Zara Prices Set to Explode?

The Iran war has triggered soaring fossil fuel prices, severely impacting polyester suppliers and garment manufacturers in India and Bangladesh, which could lead to significant cost increases for global fast-fashion retailers like H&M and Zara. Key producers report up to 30% higher costs for oil-derived raw materials due to Chinese price hikes and Middle East supply disruptions, forcing production cuts and potential price hikes down the supply chain. Analysts warn that prolonged conflict may cause a demand collapse as retailers pass on costs to cautious consumers, affecting not only apparel but also footwear industries reliant on petrochemical materials.

Ministry of Finance to Thoroughly Review Public Proposals for Fiscal Incentives

JAKARTA, DDTCNews – The Ministry of Finance will conduct an in-depth review of various public proposals related to the provision of fiscal incentives. The topic has become one of the highlights in national media today, Friday (16/5/2025). Vice Minister of Finance Anggito Abimanyu expressed understanding that the business community wishes to seek tax incentives to grow their enterprises.

Dual approach against childhood obesity

Dual approach against childhood obesity Melissa Southern-Garcia, Dietitian, Jakarta, SouthernDietitian@yahoo.com Dear Melissa, I am very concerned with my son's excess weight. He is 6 years old and weighs 60 kilograms (132 pounds). I hope you can advise me on how to reduce his weight in a very gentle way. Thanks. --Rani Dear Rani, Your question addresses such an important topic that I would like to focus my entire article today on the subject.

Transatlantic Slavery: The Greatest Crime in Human History?

Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama plans to submit a UN resolution backed by 40 African Union member states seeking formal recognition of the transatlantic slave trade as the most serious crime against humanity. The initiative, which could pave the way for reparations demands, faces resistance from Western nations, particularly ultraconservative circles in the United States, whilst African experts acknowledge that the continent's own elites bore partial responsibility in the trade.

ANPAk..r..

ANPAk..r.. Traditional or alternative methods for students? JP/7/SUNITA Traditional or alternative methods for students? Sunitha Girish Bekasi What kind of education system should we adopt? Should we choose traditional methods or the alternatives? Does it even make a difference?

Youngsters need to be embraced, not blamed: Huberman

Youngsters need to be embraced, not blamed: Huberman Barbara Kemp Huberman, director of the International Outreach Program for the Washington-based Advocates for Youth, spent three days working with Indonesian youth in Kuta, Bali. Having traveled around the world for the last two decades as a proponent of youth advocacy, Huberman shared her feelings and experience with The Jakarta Post regarding the problems of youth across the world. The following are the highlights of the interview.

Series of Controversies Surrounding the Plan to Form a Human Rights Activists Assessment Team

Indonesia's Minister of Human Rights, Natalius Pigai, has proposed forming an assessment team to ensure legal protections are granted only to genuine human rights defenders, based on strict criteria evaluating actions rather than self-claimed status, aiming to prevent misuse in legal processes. The plan has sparked significant backlash from Amnesty International Indonesia, which argues it lacks moral and legal legitimacy and contravenes international standards like the UN Declaration on Human Rights Defenders, potentially monopolising civil space. PKB politician Mafirion echoed these concerns, warning that no democratic state selects activists' status, and the mechanism risks limiting freedoms, creating conflicts of interest, and leading to discriminatory protections; Pigai later clarified the team would not determine activist status but ensure targeted protections.

Preparing for Cabinet II: No need for coalitions

Preparing for Cabinet II: No need for coalitions James Van Zorge, Jakarta Speculation and rumors about a new cabinet -- who is in and who is out -- has become the favored topic during Jakarta's evening Ramadhan meal. Already, incumbents and aspiring players are busy slinging mud at their opponents while posturing, cutting backroom deals, and building alliances.

Where to go in Jakarta:

Where to go in Jakarta: Exhibitions * Advertising Postcards, Gallery RPC, Jl. Suryo 8 Kebayoran Baru, South Jakarta, until May 31. * Modern Indonesian Literature, Galeri Lontar, Jl. Utan Kayu 68H, East Jakarta (Phone: 8573388), May 31. * Photo Open Boundaries, in collaboration with British Council and Goethe Institute, Italian Cultural Institute, Jl. HOS Cokroaminoto 117, Central Jakarta (Phone: 3927531), Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., until May 27.

Where to go in Jakarta:

Where to go in Jakarta: Exhibitions * Advertising Postcards, Gallery RPC, Jl. Suryo 8 Kebayoran Baru, South Jakarta, until May 31. * Modern Indonesian Literature, Galeri Lontar, Jl. Utan Kayu 68H, East Jakarta (Phone: 8573388), May 31. * Photo Open Boundaries, in collaboration with British Council and Goethe Institute, Italian Cultural Institute, Jl. HOS Cokroaminoto 117, Central Jakarta (Phone: 3927531), Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., until May 27.

Integration spurs Asian economies

Integration spurs Asian economies Zhu Qiwen, China Daily, Asia News Network, Beijing As regional integration becomes more important in economic globalization, closer economic cooperation benefiting both China and its Asian neighbors is increasingly imperative.

The Batman Trap in the LPDP Test

Two LPDP scholarship applicants recount experiences of interview questions they viewed as unrelated to academics. Rahman’s case centres on a question about interfaith marriage that he believes blocked his funding, while Anggi details discriminatory and non-transparent questions in interviews. The piece cites calls from researchers and activists for transparency and fairness in LPDP’s selection process.

Riau's small Malay book gallery aims big

Riau's small Malay book gallery aims big Haidir Anwar Tanjung, The Jakarta Post, Pekanbaru, Riau Although Pekanbaru boasts many bookshops, in one corner of this city of some 750,000 people there is a unique one. The Ibrahim Sattah Book Gallery specializes in books on Malay literature, culture and history. The gallery, named after a Riau-born, leading national poet, was set up three years ago in a compound formerly used for the national Koran reciting contest on Jl. Sudirman, Pekanbaru.

Bill Gates and the strengthening of CSR

Bill Gates and the strengthening of CSR Rochman Achwan, Jakarta For the past decade or so, Corporate Social Responsibility, (CSR), has been a hotly contested topic. Arguments for and against CSR strike at the core of what business is; whether it integrates social and political demands or sticks to the bottom line; the maximization of value for shareholders.

Delicate problems in Indonesia-Malaysia ties

Delicate problems in Indonesia-Malaysia ties Hanys Salmi, Kuala Lumpur During the past six years, bilateral Malaysia-Indonesia relations have not shown much progress. In fact, while in the business sector relations are picking up, in the social/economic arena, the overall picture is gloomy.

Ginting works to win public support

Ginting works to win public support Moch. N.Kurniawan, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Funding sources may not seem too sensitive a topic, but when a non-governmental organization (NGO) is directly questioned about the source of their funds, it can be hard for them to answer, and at times even upsetting.

Terrorists in Asia replace captured leaders

Terrorists in Asia replace captured leaders Steven Gutkin, Associated Press, Jakarta Al-Qaeda-linked terrorists in Asia have quickly replaced captured leaders with a new operations chief and top bomb makers who are plotting deadly attacks on international hotels and other Western targets, intelligence officials told The Associated Press.

Where to go in Jakarta: Friday, May 25, 2001

Where to go in Jakarta: Friday, May 25, 2001 Exhibitions * Advertising Postcards, Gallery RPC, Jl. Suryo 8 Kebayoran Baru, South Jakarta, until May 31. * Modern Indonesian Literature, Galeri Lontar, Jl. Utan Kayu 68H, East Jakarta (Phone: 8573388), May 31. * Photo Open Boundaries, in collaboration with British Council and Goethe Institute, Italian Cultural Institute, Jl. HOS Cokroaminoto 117, Central Jakarta (Phone: 3927531), Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., until May 27.

Reforestation funds rerouted to other uses

Reforestation funds rerouted to other uses By Sylvia Gratia MN JAKARTA (JP): The government has raised trillions of rupiah in reforestation funds to finance the country's reforestation projects, but much of the money has been rerouted to other uses. The idea behind the reforestation fund, introduced in the early 1990s, is clear and simple: it is for reforestation and forest rehabilitation efforts. But in reality, most of the funds raised are not used for this purpose.

Jakarta-KL reaching the boiling point

Jakarta-KL reaching the boiling point Hanys Salmi, Kuala Lumpur During the past six years, bilateral Malaysia-Indonesia relations have not shown much progress. In fact, while in the business sector relations are picking up, in the social/economic arena, the overall picture is gloomy.

Pontianak Senior High School Rejects Participation in MPR Quiz Rematch, Supports Sambas Senior High School

SMAN 1 Pontianak has announced it will not participate in the rematch of the MPR's 4 Pillars Quiz final for West Kalimantan senior high schools, following a viral controversy over biased judging by MPR secretariat officials, and has expressed full support for SMAN 1 Sambas as the province's national representative. The MPR, led by Chairman Ahmad Muzani, decided to rerun the final with independent academic judges to address the impartiality concerns that arose from inconsistent scoring on a question about BPK membership selection. This incident highlights the need for transparency in educational competitions organised by state institutions, prompting apologies and evaluations from the MPR to maintain public trust.

Have millennium bug fears been blown out of proportion?

Have millennium bug fears been blown out of proportion? By Zatni Arbi JAKARTA (JP): In the history of the press, has there ever been a topic so widely, continuously and vigorously reported as the millennium bug? Obviously not. The bug, which is unlike the program glitch that we usually encounter in the initial releases of software products such as Windows 98 or Office 97, has been around since the 1960s.

Ngruki: A school of terrorism?

Ngruki: A school of terrorism? Part 1 of 2 Noor Huda Ismail Jakarta The Jakarta Post on Feb. 28, 2005 released a report on a Ngruki alumni involved in terrorism activity. As a graduate of that school, I understand how such people think. In this brief report, I would like to share my experiences studying there and investigate why a fringe of Ngruki alumni are involved in terrorism activities but the majority are not. From age 12 to 17 I attended the now-famous Islamic boarding school.

Ngruki: A school of terrorism?

Ngruki: A school of terrorism? Part 1 of 2 Noor Huda Ismail Jakarta The Jakarta Post on Feb. 28, 2005 released a report on a Ngruki alumni involved in terrorism activity. As a graduate of that school, I understand how such people think. In this brief report, I would like to share my experiences studying there and investigate why a fringe of Ngruki alumni are involved in terrorism activities but the majority are not. From age 12 to 17 I attended the now-famous Islamic boarding school.

Part 1 of 2 Ngruki: It is a terrorism school?

Part 1 of 2 Ngruki: It is a terrorism school? Noor Huda Ismail, Jakarta The Jakarta Post on Feb. 28, 2005 released a report on a Ngruki alumni involved in terrorism activity. As a graduate of that school, I understand how such people think. In this brief report, I would like to share my experiences studying there and investigate why a fringe of Ngruki alumni are involved in terrorism activities but the majority are not. From age 12 to 17 I attended the now-famous Islamic boarding school.

Menopause is inevitable, but life goes on

Menopause is inevitable, but life goes on By Rita A. Widiadana JAKARTA (JP): As a top executive, Lidya Budiman (not her real name) spends most of her days attending various business meetings. On the eve of her 46th birthday early this month, she attended a very important meeting with her company's board of directors. During the meeting she suddenly felt heat rush to her face and she broke out in a sweat.

Reasons Why Indonesians Are Eyeing Chinese Electric Cars

Sales of battery electric vehicles in Indonesia surged 95.9% in the first quarter of 2026 to 33,150 units, driven largely by affordable and high-quality models from Chinese brands like Wuling, BYD, and Chery, which now hold about 90% of the market. Indonesian consumers are increasingly opting for these EVs due to lower long-term fuel and maintenance costs, exemptions from odd-even traffic restrictions, and stability amid global uncertainties such as the Middle East conflict that could raise fossil fuel prices. This dominance is fostering greater competition, innovation, and consumer choice in the local automotive sector, boosting trust in Chinese technology.

Media sensitivity urged for AIDS information

Media sensitivity urged for AIDS information By Wirasti Wiryono YOGYAKARTA (JP): "They should ask God for forgiveness," a resident said here recently, offering his perceptions on people affected by HIV, the virus which causes the Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS).

World trade body must be transformed

World trade body must be transformed Hira P. Jhamtani, Board Member Institute for Global Justice, Jakarta The fourth ministerial conference of the World Trade Organization (WTO) will commence on Nov. 9, 2001 in Doha, Qatar, with civil society calling for democratization and a review of the multilateral trading body.

Antiterrorism and shared responsibility

Antiterrorism and shared responsibility Abdullah Saleh Mbamba, Director, United Nations Information Center, Jakarta The tragic events of Sept. 11 and those that took place recently in Bali have brought home the challenge of keeping deadly options from terrorist groups, who may have weaker capabilities than states, but have less hesitation about using such weapons.

'Wayang suket': A hilarious contemporary art form

'Wayang suket': A hilarious contemporary art form JAKARTA (JP): A scene of simplicity predominated the stage. The hall at the Japanese Cultural Center was halved for the wayang suket (straw puppet) and for the audience. Pieces of straw were all over the stage. A set of kenong (small gongs), a large gong, a big drum, a guitar and some straw puppets were scattered on the floor. A large white linen screen hung loosely on the wall.

SARS puts Singapore under the microscope

SARS puts Singapore under the microscope Chua Lee Hoong The Straits Times Asia News Network Singapore A month and a half into the SARS crisis in Singapore, you know that despite the still-rising casualty toll, life is regaining some normalcy because: * The kids are going back to school, suitably fortified with the relevant information; * People are trickling back to the shopping malls; * Friends, the American sitcom, replaces viruses as the topic of dinner conversations; * Fitness companies...

Foreign Workers and the Direction of Literacy

The results of the 2025 Academic Ability Test (TKA) for high school students reveal significant shortcomings in Indonesian language education, with average scores hovering around mediocre levels despite daily language use, highlighting the need for a shift from rote memorisation to critical thinking and text interpretation. Regional disparities are evident, with western areas outperforming eastern regions like Papua, underscoring issues in the conventional 'banking system' of education that treats students as passive recipients. Reforms must integrate oral and written skills through collaborative efforts involving families, schools, communities, and the government to foster true literacy and address these educational inequities.

Jakarta Varsities English Debate at UI

Jakarta Varsities English Debate at UI By T. Sima Gunawan JAKARTA (JP): Indonesia's prominent economist Dorodjatun Kuntjoro-Jakti has voiced a strong objection against capital punishment. "The death penalty does not solve problems," he said. But wait, don't take him seriously! Dorodjatun, dean of the School of Economics, University of Indonesia, made the statement during a debate with finalists of the Jakarta Varsities English Debate 1995.

JULO Strengthens Financial Literacy, Partners with Ringkas for KPR Take-Over Education

JULO, an OJK-licensed fintech lending company, has collaborated with Ringkas to launch an online financial literacy programme called NGOPLING focusing on home mortgage (KPR) education and take-over strategies. The initiative responds to Indonesia's relatively low financial literacy index of 66% and addresses the need for sustainable long-term credit management among the population. The February 2026 campaign provided participants across multiple regions with comprehensive KPR simulations and practical strategies for maintaining affordable instalments whilst protecting household finances.

Painters prove Surakarta arts remain dynamic

Painters prove Surakarta arts remain dynamic Yusuf Susilo Hartono, Contributor, Jakarta Surakarta, better known as Solo, has a long cultural history, particularly in the arts. The city has a style of its own in the fields of dancing, shadow puppetry and bridal make-up, genres of art originating in the Surakarta palace. In modern painting, Solo once had artists who were greatly concerned with the state of the city, known the world over as one of the centers of Javanese culture.

Melly Goeslaw's 'Diam' touches society's sore spot

Melly Goeslaw's 'Diam' touches society's sore spot By Agni Amorita JAKARTA (JP): Jakarta stood drenched in blood. Parents grieved for teenage children burned to death amid looting and arson. Tears flowed of innocent women who were sexually abused. In a quiet and safe corner of the city, a young woman ached.

Small-scale enterprises and the grassroots economy

Small-scale enterprises and the grassroots economy Small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs) have always emerged as a major topic in seminars and discussions about Indonesia's devastating economic crisis. The general conclusion is that, had it not been for the flexibility and resilience of SMEs, the entire Indonesian economy would long ago have collapsed into total ruin. So it was that the SMEs have been hailed as the savior of the economy.

Award-winning films to be screened here

Award-winning films to be screened here JAKARTA (JP): Taiwanese film Vive l'amour, which won the Golden Lion award for best picture at the Venice Film Festival September last year, is among the feature films being screened at the 40th Asia-Pacific Film Festival to open here tomorrow.

China widens anti-corruption net to catch 'quasi-naked officials'

China has quietly broadened its anti-corruption scrutiny beyond "naked officials" — whose spouses and children live overseas — to include "quasi-naked officials" whose children alone reside abroad. The Central Organisation Department conducted a nationwide survey of officials' overseas ties, with some losing promotions or being removed from posts, reflecting intensified concerns about capital flight and the challenges of cross-border judicial cooperation, particularly with the United States.

World trade body must be transformed to benefit all the people

World trade body must be transformed to benefit all the people Hira P. Jhamtani, Board Member, Institute for Global Justice, Jakarta The fourth ministerial conference of the World Trade Organization (WTO) began Friday in Doha, Qatar, with civil society calling for democratization and a review of the multilateral trading body.

Pluralism and existential issues

Pluralism and existential issues Thomas Hidya Tjaya, Boston, Massachusetts The recent fatwa (edict) by the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) outlawing liberal Islamic thought and pluralism seems ironic in the wake of the Bali Declaration signed by leaders and scholars of some of the world's major faiths.

Parties need conditional accord

Parties need conditional accord The following is the first of two articles on Indonesian post- election politics written by Yulius P. Hermawan,a lecturer on international relations at the Catholic University of Parahyangan and a researcher at the Parahyangan Center for International Studies in Bandung, West Java. He is a graduate of the Department of Politics, Monash University, Australia.

Career women skirt traditional gender traps

Career women skirt traditional gender traps By Yogita Tahil Ramani JAKARTA (JP): Living true to their nurturer trademark, some career women take pride in exercising their soft skills as mediators and whispering important tidbits into the right ears. The irony? Men are still the ones seated in the tall, cushioned seats. Women in the workplace, an issue as feminist-oriented as Madonna opting for the garb of a nun, was the topic of a recent seminar held at the Regent Hotel, Jakarta.

Where to go in Jakarta:

Where to go in Jakarta: Exhibitions * Advertising Postcards, Gallery RPC, Jl. Suryo 8 Kebayoran Baru, South Jakarta, until May 31. * Modern Indonesian Literature, Galeri Lontar, Jl. Utan Kayu 68H, East Jakarta (Phone: 8573388), May 31. * Art in Italian and Indonesian Ceramics in the framework of the Indonesian-Italian Workshop on Advanced and Conventional Ceramics, Italian Cultural Institute, Jl. HOS Cokroaminoto 117, Central Jakarta (Phone: 3927531), Monday to Friday, 9 a.m.

Questioning the Certainty of CASN 2026 and Organising the Needs of State Apparatus

This opinion piece critiques the Indonesian government's handling of civil servant recruitment for CASN 2026, highlighting ongoing bureaucratic inefficiencies and the lack of strategic planning in public sector staffing. It points to the suspension of CASN 2025 and rushed recruitment for initiatives like the Merah Putih Village Cooperatives, which may exacerbate fiscal pressures without addressing real organisational needs. The author urges clearer commitments to ensure optimal public services, warning that poor planning risks marginalising workers and hindering national welfare.

Teens just want to have fun

Teens just want to have fun They are not involved in student brawls and they do not take drugs. They just want to hang out in shopping malls, eat at tent cafes or watch movies. But parents should stay alert to make sure their children walk on the right track, The Jakarta Post's Ida Indawati Khouw reported. JAKARTA (JP): As Saturday approaches, teenager Frans Hartanto anticipates the weekend, when he can hang out in a nightspot until late at night.

Schools lack basic study skills

Schools lack basic study skills Simon Marcus Gower, Principal, Harapan Bangsa High School, Kotamodern, Tangerang, Banten Many schools throughout Indonesia have, by now, made quite remarkable efforts to improve the quality of their tuition in the English language and so develop the English skills of students throughout the nation. Likewise, the national curriculum has quite expressly targeted the increase and betterment of English language studies throughout students' lives.

Crush Malaysia, whose agenda?

Crush Malaysia, whose agenda? Dandhy Dwi Laksono, Jakarta It is almost undeniable that the call for confrontation with Malaysia launched by president Sukarno from January 1963 to May 1966 was nothing more than an attempt to save the face of a muddled domestic policy. Moreover, the military strength was split, particularly after 1965. By creating a common enemy abroad, Sukarno hoped he could maintain the loyalty of his generals.

Bush expected to help boost RI's biofuel development program

Jakarta (ANTARA News) - Indonesia`s preparations to develop biofuel will seemingly get a further boost when President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono and US President Geoerge W Bush meet in Bogor, West Java, on Monday. It was reported that among the six topics the two leaders will focus on during their talk at the Bogor palace will be cooperation in the development of biofuel.

JP/17/RUDY

JP/17/RUDY Rudy makes biology learning fun for students Sri Wahyuni The Jakarta Post/Yogyakarta Bringing the subject closer and making it more interesting are believed to be keys to more effective teaching and learning processes in a classroom. This is true at least for Rudy Prakanto, 37, a teacher at state-owned SMU 6 Yogyakarta high school.

US and China to Hold Surprise Trade Talks in Paris Amid Middle East Tensions

The United States and China have scheduled high-level economic discussions in Paris on 15 March 2026, led by US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng, with the aim of resolving trade obstacles and paving the way for President Trump's visit to Beijing in late March. Key agenda items include US tariff changes, Chinese rare earth mineral supplies, technology export controls, and Chinese purchases of American agricultural products, though analysts suggest expectations for major breakthroughs are limited given Washington's focus on Middle East conflicts and tight preparation timelines. The talks also review implementation of a ceasefire agreement reached in October 2025 in Busan and address new investigations into unfair trade practices and forced labour allegations that could trigger additional tariff rounds.

'Lurik' cloth, an alternative to all that batik

'Lurik' cloth, an alternative to all that batik JAKARTA (JP): Recently, a lady rushed into a batik shop at Jakarta's Sukarno-Hatta airport to buy a piece of lurik cloth as a gift for her friend. The shop's attendant looked confused and was unable to find the cloth among heaps of batik and other local textiles. "I'm sorry.. mam, I am afraid I've never heard that kind of cloth," she replied hesitantly. The lady, Suwati Kartiwa, an expert on Indonesian textiles, was startled.

Mexican artist Polin explores eastern philosophy

Mexican artist Polin explores eastern philosophy Mehru Jaffer, Contributor, Jakarta For Marisa Polin, moving from Mexico to the Netherlands was interesting enough. But two years ago, when she first visited Indonesia, the Mexican painter was transported, quite literally, into another world. "There is a large Indonesian community in my neighborhood. Indonesian food is almost the national cuisine of Holland.

RI students go it alone to make movie

RI students go it alone to make movie Prapti Widinugraheni, Contributor, Perth, Australia A group of Indonesian students here have made their mark on the filmmaking scene, proving that good ideas and hard work are really what make a fine movie. Pelangi di Atas Prahara (A Rainbow over Catastrophe), a 90- minute film in the teen-pop genre, had its premier here two weeks ago.

From busway system to monorail dream

From busway system to monorail dream Burhanuddin Abe, Contributor, Jakarta With a population of about 8.5 million, Jakarta has become intensely crowded and increasingly mired in problems related to traffic congestion. Flyovers and underpasses have been built but they cannot keep up with increases in the size of the population and the number of vehicles on the roads.

Enhancing the Effectiveness of the Inspectorate General's Core Functions for Corruption Prevention

The article underscores the critical need to bolster the effectiveness of the Inspectorate General (Itjen) and Government Internal Supervisory Apparatus (APIP) in preventing corruption within ministries, agencies, and regional governments, amid ongoing issues highlighted by frequent Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) operations and Indonesia's declining Corruption Perceptions Index ranking of 109 out of 180 in 2025. It calls for strengthened capabilities, independence, and inter-institutional synergy, including SWOT analyses, to counter evolving corruption tactics, while critiquing the overemphasis on enforcement over prevention and deterrent sanctions like asset confiscation. This is vital for advancing post-1998 reform agendas and ensuring accountable governance.

Fact Check: Is Trump Really Panicking Over Takbir Chanting?

A viral video circulating on social media falsely claims that US President Donald Trump panicked during a speech after hearing someone shout "Allahu Akbar", but fact-checkers have verified this is misinformation. The authentic video, dating from a Trump campaign rally in Ohio in March 2016, shows Trump reacting to an audience member attempting to rush the stage, with the "Allahu Akbar" audio artificially added later.

11 War Updates: US-Iran Exchange Fire, Trump Meets Xi Jinping

Escalating tensions in the Middle East have seen the United States and Iran exchanging fire in the Strait of Hormuz, with the UAE intercepting Iranian drones and missiles, while oil prices surged over 1% amid hopes for a swift resolution. President Donald Trump affirmed that the ceasefire with Iran remains in effect despite the clashes and announced an upcoming meeting with China's President Xi Jinping on 14-15 May, where the Iran conflict is expected to feature prominently alongside trade and investment discussions. Additional developments include Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon killing 12 people, including Hezbollah targets, and diplomatic efforts such as new Lebanon-Israel talks and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio's meeting with the Pope to seek Middle East peace.

11 New Developments in the Middle East War: Iran Meets Putin - North Korea Wins

Amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East, key developments include Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi meeting Russian President Vladimir Putin in Saint Petersburg to discuss the conflict with the US, while ceasefire agreements between the US and Iran, as well as Israel and Hezbollah, face threats from mutual accusations and military actions. US President Donald Trump cancelled planned talks with Iran citing internal chaos in Tehran but suggested phone discussions, and Iran proposed reopening the Strait of Hormuz to ease the war. Oil prices rose due to persistent disruptions, yet global stock markets showed resilience, buoyed by AI advancements offsetting geopolitical risks.

NU congress to discuss politics, Viagra

NU congress to discuss politics, Viagra BANDUNG (JP): The Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) is identified with traditional Islam. Traditional in the sense that its supporters mostly comprise Muslims living in rural areas. However, this does not mean the development of NU thinking is "boorish" and behind the times. NU thinking is so advanced that it has become a locomotive in the determination of Islamic laws, especially on the subject of fikih (Islamic law).

Didik Nini Thowok's journey, from classical to modern dances

Didik Nini Thowok's journey, from classical to modern dances By Helly Minarti YOGYAKARTA (JP): The commercialization of arts is now a hot topic following the creation of a new ministry dealing with arts, culture and tourism. While artists are still questioning the issue, Didik Nini Thowok has proved his skill in presenting arts in a entertaining form to serve tourists.

Bandung takes international stage once again

Bandung takes international stage once again By Meidyatama Suryodiningrat BANDUNG (JP): This quiet provincial town 180 kilometers south of Jakarta seems an unlikely place to discuss world affairs. But tomorrow it will host an important meeting with an agenda which includes many of the issues dominating today's international scene.

Media trends feed insensitivity

Media trends feed insensitivity By Akhmad Zaini Abar JAKARTA (JP): Goenawan Mohammad, one time chief editor of the now defunct Tempo magazine, says "blank spot cultivation" has become a major objective of politics. This strategy causes people to become unmindful of past incidents, behavior, activities and mistakes. Its purpose is to eradicate common knowledge of historical slights, so that the public loses its sensitivity to the significance of events and thus its analytical memory.

New perspective needed in Australian-Indonesian ties

New perspective needed in Australian-Indonesian ties By Siswo Pramono CANBERRA (JP): How many Australians would agree with Pauline Hanson that Australia should stop sending aid to Indonesia because the people there had burned Australian flags? In 1999, Australians and Indonesians burned each other's flags. It is bizarre, however, that relations between the two countries, about 220 million people in total, are reduced to flag-burning business.

I don't know what this means, "copies" of what?

I don't know what this means, "copies" of what? ;JP; Advertorial for Books Kinokuniya: Come to Kinokuniya and meet the world's most creative ideas Located on the 5th floor of Jakarta's premium department store, Sogo Plaza Senayan, Books Kinokuniya offers much more than a conventional bookstore.

What issues will dominate the Trump-Xi summit, and who has the upper hand?

The upcoming summit between US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing will be dominated by the ongoing Iran war, which threatens global energy security, and the persistent tensions over Taiwan, amid broader issues like technology restrictions and trade frictions. Analysts expect limited breakthroughs, with the US seeking to leverage China's reliance on Middle Eastern oil to gain cooperation on stabilising the Strait of Hormuz, while Beijing prioritises maintaining ties with Iran and views Taiwan as a core interest. Despite speculation of transactional bargaining, expectations for a meaningful reset in Sino-US relations remain tempered due to fundamental strategic differences.

Politicizing security matters: Deja vu

Politicizing security matters: Deja vu Mette Lykke Knudsen, Visiting Fellow, Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), Jakarta Lately, and increasingly since the Aug. 5 JW Marriott Hotel bombing, security has yet again surfaced as a "hot topic" in politics here. The focus of this push for enhanced security is, for example, the physical safety of Indonesians and foreigners and political stability.

Should APEC leaders boycott Kuala Lumpur?

Should APEC leaders boycott Kuala Lumpur? Indonesia, Thailand and the Philippines have expressed disquiet over current developments within Malaysia. The Jakarta Post's Asia correspondent, Harvey Stockwin, who has been following Malaysian developments since Malaya became independent in 1957, suggests that there are good reasons why APEC leaders should at least consider taking the ASEAN criticism of Malaysia one step further. Following is the last of two installments.

Anthology features poems of ASEAN writers

Anthology features poems of ASEAN writers ASEANO: An Anthology of Poems from Southeast Asia Published by The ASEAN Committee on Culture and Information, Manila, 1995 282 pages JAKARTA (JP): What does the word "Aseano" mean? If you think that it has something to do with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), you are in the right track. Aseano is an anthology of poems from ASEAN countries, published by ASEAN.

Where to go in Jakarta: Monday, June 19, 2000

Where to go in Jakarta: Monday, June 19, 2000 Exhibitions * Paintings, Ceramics, Sculptures, Graphic Arts Exhibition, Kompas-Bentara Budaya's Collections at Bentara Budaya Jakarta, Jl. Palmerah Selatan no. 17, West Jakarta, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., until June 25. * Fine Arts Exhibition: Teka-Teki, Silang, Pendapat yang Digambarkan, by Isa Perkasa, Koong Gallery, Hotel Gran Melia Jakarta, Jl. H.R. Rasuna Said, South Jakarta, until August 10.

Mapping tomorrow's political horizon

Mapping tomorrow's political horizon Stability has always been the catchword in the development process, especially now, with the general election around the corner. But Cornelis Lay says the bureaucratic elite is playing with fire in their attempt to preserve power. YOGYAKARTA (JP): Estimations on Indonesia's economic profile in the next century have been much talked about. A market economy and globalization are clear indicators, as the country sails toward tomorrow's waters.

Acid Attack on Human Rights Activist Andrie Yunus Condemned as Attack on Democracy

The head of Indonesia's Cyber Media Network (JMSI), Teguh Santosa, has strongly condemned an acid attack on Andrie Yunus, deputy coordinator of the Commission for the Disappeared and Victims of Violence (KontraS), characterising it as an assault on democratic principles and human rights enforcement. Yunus sustained severe chemical burns affecting approximately 24 per cent of his body and is undergoing treatment at Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital with ongoing specialist care, including scheduled eye surgery. Santosa called on Indonesian police to conduct a thorough investigation to identify perpetrators and intellectual masterminds, warning that organised attacks on human rights defenders threaten civil freedoms protected by Indonesia's constitution.

Where to go in Jakarta: Friday, June 23, 2000

Where to go in Jakarta: Friday, June 23, 2000 Exhibitions * Irian Jaya (Papua) Art and Culture Care Exhibition at Arkadia Plaza, Arkadia Office Building, Jl. T.B. Simatupang kav. 88, South Jakarta, until June 24. * Paintings, Ceramics, Sculptures, Graphic Arts Exhibition, Kompas-Bentara Budaya's Collections at Bentara Budaya Jakarta, Jl. Palmerah Selatan no. 17, West Jakarta, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., until June 25.

Indonesian music artists sing copyrights blues

Indonesian music artists sing copyrights blues By Yenni Kwok JAKARTA (JP): When singer-songwriter Oppie Andaresta composes a soon-to-be hit song, chances are she will not make much of a profit from it. Like other Indonesian songwriters, Oppie usually sells her songs to her recording company for a set price. By doing so, she gets to keep the copyright for her creative works but not the royalty. "Most songwriters want to get money fast," she said.

Profile of Sultan Subang, BEBS Stock Price Manipulation Suspect Causes Rp14.5 Trillion Loss

A profile of Asep Sulaeman Sabanda, the ultimate beneficiary owner of BEBS, who has been named a suspect in a case of BEBS stock price manipulation. The investigation covers 2020–2022 and involves insider trading, IPO manipulation, and fictitious transactions, with alleged illegal profits estimated at Rp14.5 trillion; authorities have frozen the gains and prohibited trading.

KIKA Says Natalius Pigai's Statement Normalises Terror Against Student Activist

The Indonesian Caucus for Academic Freedom (KIKA) has condemned Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai for dismissing terror threats against the chair of Gadjah Mada University's Student Executive Board (BEM UGM), accusing him of normalising repression and shirking his constitutional duty to protect citizens.

Pornography elicits mixed reactions

Pornography elicits mixed reactions JAKARTA (JP): Take a look at any newsstand on the street and you'll see magazines and tabloids with hot pictures of seductive women on them. The exposure of such pictures, along with sex stories, is not new indeed. Recently, however, following the government's decision to relax the publishing license regulation, there has been a mushrooming of new media, including those focusing on sex.

Deputy Chair of Commission II Claims Ignorance of Hery Susanto's Alleged Corruption Involvement During Ombudsman Selection

Zulfikar Arse, Deputy Chair of Indonesia's House Commission II, stated he was unaware of Hery Susanto's alleged involvement in a corruption case during the selection process for Ombudsman leaders, expressing full trust in the selection team's recommendations that resulted in 18 candidates from which nine were chosen. Amid the ongoing case where Hery, the Ombudsman Chair, faces charges for receiving Rp 1.5 billion in bribes related to resolving a state revenue dispute for a forestry company, Commission II has voiced concern and deferred the matter to law enforcement while apologising for any oversight in their supervisory role. This scandal highlights potential vulnerabilities in the appointment mechanisms for key oversight institutions like the Ombudsman, which handles public complaints against government services.

321 Foreign Nationals in Jakarta West Online Gambling Syndicate Suspected Linked to 210 Foreign Nationals Involved in Batam Fraud

Indonesian authorities have arrested 321 foreign nationals operating an online gambling syndicate in West Jakarta's Hayam Wuruk area, believed to be connected to a group of 210 foreigners running investment scams in Batam, Kepulauan Riau. Minister of Immigration Agus Andrianto highlighted that these perpetrators from ASEAN countries exploit visa-free policies and short-term visas, entering Indonesia to conduct illegal cross-border operations after crackdowns in places like Cambodia. The operations underscore the need for heightened vigilance and inter-agency collaboration to protect national sovereignty and curb such transnational crimes.

The flip side of exporting American jobs

The flip side of exporting American jobs Aziz, Analyst, Kuala Kencana, Papua, aziz9672@yahoo.com The heated debate over jobs draining out of America to developing countries, primarily to India, China, the Philippines and Latin American countries that started several months ago, does not look like it will end soon. It now has even more political resonance with the U.S. presidential election drawing near.

Examining the Dangers of Mental Disorders and Their Impact on Indonesia's Economy

Indonesia faces a significant mental health crisis, with 68.7% of adolescents and adults experiencing anxiety and 20% suffering from emotional disorders, resulting in annual economic losses of Rp463 trillion, equivalent to 2.1% of GDP, primarily due to lost productivity. A recent webinar by Triftin and Attentive highlighted strategies for emotional regulation, drawing from the life story of Bjorn Natthiko Lindeblad and techniques like grounding and coping to address overthinking and anxiety. The author advocates for government subsidies on therapy and self-development books to improve access to mental health resources, viewing such investments as essential for building a resilient workforce towards Indonesia's Golden Vision 2045.

Starting Ramadan on the Global Date

An opinion column discusses the annual debate in Indonesia over determining the start of Ramadan, comparing the anticipation to waiting for the final result of a football match. The piece addresses the recurring tension between different methods of moon sighting and calendar determination used by Indonesian Islamic organisations.

Specter of Cabinet reshuffle haunts President Susilo

Specter of Cabinet reshuffle haunts President Susilo John McBeth, The Straits Times/Asian News Network, Singapore It has been the hottest topic in Indonesian politics, but it was left to one of President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono's own ministers to utter what for many Indonesian commentators has now become almost the unthinkable.

Din Syamsuddin Warns of Divisive Buzzers Amid Iran War Issue

Former Muhammadiyah Chairman Din Syamsuddin has urged Muslims, particularly in Indonesia, to remain united and resist provocation by buzzers and Israeli agents attempting to exacerbate Sunni-Shia divides during the ongoing Middle East conflict. Speaking alongside Iran's Ambassador to Indonesia, Mohammad Boroujerdi, in Jakarta, he emphasised fostering Islamic brotherhood over sectarian or ethnic differences, noting that Israeli attacks do not discriminate based on faith. Boroujerdi echoed this call by referencing a Quranic verse highlighting unity among early Muslims in times of war, attributing divisions to Israeli tactics.

Government Regulation Affirms OSS System as Channel for Tax Incentive Applications

JAKARTA, DDTCNews - The government has issued Government Regulation (PP) 28/2025 on the Implementation of Risk-Based Business Licensing, which also affirms the role of the Online Single Submission (OSS) system as a channel for applying for tax incentives. The topic was among the subjects covered by national media on Monday (23/6/2025). Under Article 188 paragraph (3) of PP 28/2025, the investment facility subsystem is stipulated as one of seven subsystems within the OSS framework.

Scholar explores Muslim clerics' 'appreciation' of women

Scholar explores Muslim clerics' 'appreciation' of women Hatim Gazali, Contributor, Yogyakarta Islam Agama Ramah Perempuan: Pembelaan Kiai Pesantren (Islam, a woman-friendly religion: Defense by a Muslim boarding school cleric) KH Husein Muhammad Nuruzzaman, et al, eds. LkiS, Yogyakarta and Fahmina Institute lxvi + 344 pp Recent discussions on feminism are intense and have always found its significance, both nationally and internationally, owing to the following basic factors.

National Weekly: MBG Electric Motorcycle Procurement - Saiful Mujani's Criticism

The second week of April 2026 in Indonesia was marked by political controversies, including irregularities in the National Nutrition Agency's procurement of 21,000 electric motorcycles for the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, which has drawn scrutiny from the Finance Ministry and Parliament's Commission IX. Pollster Saiful Mujani sparked public debate by calling for President Prabowo Subianto's downfall to save the nation, leading to a police report for alleged hate speech. Additionally, the military police completed the investigation into the acid attack on activist Andrie Yunus, handing over the case to prosecutors.

Nonacademic writers face challenges

Nonacademic writers face challenges By Inge Komardjaja BANDUNG (JP): In his article Writing needs more recognition, A. Chaedar Alwasilah (The Jakarta Post, July 10, 1999) revealed the lack of writing ability in the academic realm in a clever way. What about the problem in nonacademic organizations, where writing reports of applied research is part of the routine? Thus far, reports do not seem to possess qualities of significant contributions to knowledge.

Indonesian films show signs of hope

Indonesian films show signs of hope By Yenni Kwok JAKARTA (JP): Since March 30 was declared National Film Day in 1992, the day has been observed more as a day of mourning rather than a jubilant celebration. And people do have reason to mourn: The number of movies produced are few, and most of them are steamy, semi-pornographic movies. "It would have been all right if those 'porn' movies had been good," said actress-director Jajang C. Noer.

5 Updates on the US-Iran War: Putin "Steps In" - Israel's Iron Dome in an Arab Country

The US-Iran conflict escalates amid diplomatic deadlocks, with Trump insisting on Iran's nuclear disarmament for any talks, while Iranian envoys seek support from Putin in Russia to counter Western pressure. Economic repercussions include soaring oil prices and maritime blockades threatening global trade, as Iran demands the lifting of US restrictions before negotiations. Military alliances deepen with Israel deploying Iron Dome systems to the UAE to defend against Iranian missile and drone attacks, highlighting unprecedented regional cooperation.

Rich wedding traditions in Asia in danger of dying out

Rich wedding traditions in Asia in danger of dying out By Parvathi Nayar Narayan JAKARTA (JP): In the era of globalization, it is becoming increasingly more important to preserve a country's traditional practices while making them more accessible to the modern- oriented generation. Some of the most important traditions are those related to the beautiful bridal ceremonies, which are in danger of dying out in the culturally diverse and rich Asian region.

Redefining education as inherent to human growth

Redefining education as inherent to human growth LSF Josephus, Teachers, Gandhi Memorial International School, Jakarta In a limited seminar on Education Research Design held by Pasacsarjana students of philosophy from the University of Indonesia, I once stated that "Education is not a matter of transferring knowledge! It's an ongoing formation in an ongoing process." Many hands were raised, many questions were addressed, but all had me surprised. The questions were far from what I meant.

Will another power-sharing deal work?

Will another power-sharing deal work? We now face a carrot and stick approach, writes James Van Zorge, a senior partner in Van Zorge Heffernan & Associates, a Jakarta-based consultancy that specializes in political risk and government relations advisory services. JAKARTA (JP): When Abdurrahman Wahid came to the presidential office in October 1999, there was reason for optimism.

The ups and downs of general car importers

The ups and downs of general car importers By Berni K. Moestafa JAKARTA (JP): On driving along Jakarta's main thoroughfares one cannot but help notice the growing presence of exotic cars, previously seen only in automotive magazines. The BMW Z series, Mercedes's new S class and once in a while a Porsche, join the lines of cars that jam Jakarta's streets every morning.

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

Ulil goes against fundamentalism

Ulil goes against fundamentalism Berni K. Moestafa, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Relatively small but vocal, Indonesia's Muslim fundamentalists are a thorn in the side to the country's majority of Muslim moderates. But recently, the hardliners are complaining of an annoying sting. It goes by the name Ulil Abshar-Abdalla.

'Crossing over' lifts religious barriers

'Crossing over' lifts religious barriers Passing Over: Melintasi Batas Agama (Passing Over: Crossing Religious Borders); PT Gramedia Pustaka Utama, in cooperation with Yayasan Wakaf Paramadina, Jakarta 1998; Edited by Komaruddin Hidayat & Ahmad Gaus AF; Foreword by Nurcholish Madjid; 464pp + xi YOGYAKARTA (JP): Redefining the meaning of a religion is needed to prevent understanding a religion from deteriorating into a religious cult and fundamentalism, expressed as fanaticism in the way a...

Saiful Mujani's Explanation on Why the President Needs to Be Removed

Political science professor Saiful Mujani argues for the removal of President Prabowo Subianto, citing violations of the Indonesian Constitution, including nepotistic appointments, military involvement in civilian roles, and policies conflicting with democratic principles. He criticises government programmes like free nutritious meals as lacking legal basis and serving political interests, while highlighting declining democracy scores and economic weakening under the current administration. Mujani frames his views as academic discourse on freedom of expression, emphasising ethical lapses in presidential statements that undermine public trust.

The region's concerns over Indonesia's developments

The region's concerns over Indonesia's developments Hanys Salmi Kuala Lumpur The current social-political developments in our giant neighbor Indonesia have become the focus of attention in the Southeast Asian region.

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JP/ / could you please check the parts in bold, thanks Muhammadiyah and global Education Muhamad Ali The congress of the second largest Muslim organization, Muhammadiyah, in the East Java town of Malang from July 3 to July 8, has a strategic role to play. Nationally and internationally recognized as a moderate organization, Muhammadiyah has the noble task of promoting dialogue and cooperation to overcome religious and cultural boundaries.

Democracy vs efficiency at WTO

Democracy vs efficiency at WTO By Djauhari Oratmangun GENEVA (JP): More than two months have elapsed since the World Trade Organization's Singapore Ministerial Conference (SMC) ended. Yet the accusations of "nontransparency and an undemocratic way of doing business", in particular in the decision-making process of the World Trade Organization (WTO), continue to be a controversial topic in Geneva with most of the developing countries. The closing remarks made on Dec.

Neighboring countries concerned over developments in Indonesia

Neighboring countries concerned over developments in Indonesia Hanys Salmi, Kuala Lumpur The current social-political developments in our giant neighbor Indonesia have become the focus of attention in the Southeast Asian region.

Muhammadiyah still lags behind in global education development

Muhammadiyah still lags behind in global education development Muhamad Ali The congress of the second largest Muslim organization, Muhammadiyah, in the East Java town of Malang from July 3 to July 8, has a strategic role to play. Nationally and internationally recognized as a moderate organization, Muhammadiyah has the noble task of promoting dialogue and cooperation to overcome religious and cultural boundaries.

Sharpening skills for Vision 2020

Sharpening skills for Vision 2020 Lim Pui Huen highlights Malaysian policy initiatives on science and technology. Several recent developments in Malaysia have underscored the government's seriousness of purpose with regard to its science and technology policy. Greater emphasis on science and technology development is seen as vital to prime minister Mahathir Mohamad's aim of achieving industrialized nation status for Malaysia in 25 years, popularly called Vision 2020.

Lessons from currency crisis

Lessons from currency crisis By Jusuf Wanandi JAKARTA (JP): As could be expected the currency crisis in Southeast Asia was the main topic of discussion at the World Economic Forum 1997 East Asian Summit in Hong Kong on Oct. 13-15, 1997. The problem is in everybody's mind, and policies to overcome the problem are yet to emerge more clearly, while the financial market will assess Malaysia's state budget and the deal between Indonesia's government and the IMF which is being explored in Jakarta.

China's effect in Japan-ASEAN long relationship

China's effect in Japan-ASEAN long relationship Kavi Chongkittavorn, The Nation, Asia News Network, Bangkok For the past 25 years, Japan has had the unchallenged opportunity to build up relations with ASEAN. Indeed Tokyo was able to indulge in "heart-to-heart" diplomacy while pursuing half a dozen doctrines under the names of its different prime ministers that aimed for "harmonious relations" and "equal partnership".

Malaysia's 'Kongsi Raya': Celebrating togetherness

Malaysia's 'Kongsi Raya': Celebrating togetherness By Lim Pui Huen The concept of Bangsa Malaysia gives Malaysians a new vision for the future. No matter what the astrologers and feng shui masters say, most Malaysians feel that the Year of the Rat will be an auspicious one. By the fortuitous conjunction of the stars, Chinese New Year fell one day ahead of Hari Raya Idul Fitri.

Earning Dollars from Google's Algorithm: The Track Record of Avanda Alvin

Muhammad Avanda Alvin, a 26-year-old from Aceh, has built a thriving digital asset business through SEO, generating thousands of US dollars monthly from his portfolio of websites. Starting from childhood curiosity about search engine rankings, Alvin shifted from pilot aspirations to digital entrepreneurship, leveraging content creation and monetisation via Google AdSense to navigate algorithm changes and achieve sustained success. His story highlights the growing digital economy in Indonesia, contributing to national GDP growth amid a burgeoning creator economy.

Commentary: Why China can’t quit ‘open’ AI

China's AI ecosystem has thrived on open-source models, contrasting with the US's proprietary approach, by freely sharing technology that fosters innovation, attracts global talent, and challenges American dominance in the field. While Alibaba's recent shift to closed-source models raises concerns about a potential retreat, this strategy remains central to Beijing's tech ambitions, supported by government backing and cultural openness, ensuring its persistence despite commercial pressures. The article argues that abandoning open-source AI could prove more costly for China, as it sustains rapid iteration and widespread adoption, even prompting unease in Washington over eroding US leads.

UN Council reform questioned

UN Council reform questioned By Omar Halim JAKARTA (JP): The intense pressure which Germany and Japan have exerted to become permanent members of the Security Council and the air of reform circulating these days in the United Nations has made the issue a major focus of discussions.

Free press? Not likely in Singapore

Free press? Not likely in Singapore Self Censorship: Singapore's Shame By James Gomez Think Centre, Singapore, 1999 90 pages S$18.90 SINGAPORE (JP): What does it take to speak one's mind in Singapore, especially on topics deemed "sensitive"? A thick skin helps. That, and a freedom from fear. Evidently, James Gomez possesses both attributes. A police investigation into his activities -- mainly for organizing public talks -- has not daunted him.

American Muslims strives to repair image of Islam

American Muslims strives to repair image of Islam In conjunction with the recently observed second commemoration of Sept. 11, 2001 attacks, the U.S. Department of State, via the U.S. Embassy in Jakarta, invited many journalists, including The Jakarta Post's Rita A. Widiadana to visit Washington D.C. and New York City. They had the chance to talk to senior U.S. government officials, scholars, Islamic leaders and community leaders on how the American public perceives Islam and Muslims.

CGI creditors must now lend an ear the poor

CGI creditors must now lend an ear the poor H.S. Dillon, Observer, Economic Devepment Issues, Jakarta This Wednesday morning a group of well-intentioned donors is scheduled to sit down with our politicians and bureaucrats to discuss the size of the loans we will get next year. Figures have been bandied around for some time, and it is safe to expect that the final sum will not fall too far from these well-informed estimates.

Economy strunggles over shaky political ground

Economy strunggles over shaky political ground Umar Juoro, Jakarta The strong political support that voters gave to directly elected President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, and the take-over of the largest political party Golkar by Vice President Jusuf Kalla, has not yet turned the government into a powerhouse of effective policymaking. Even the relationship between the president and his VP is becoming a never-ending topic of speculation.

Economy strunggles over shaky political ground

Economy strunggles over shaky political ground Umar Juoro, Jakarta The strong political support that voters gave to directly elected President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, and the take-over of the largest political party Golkar by Vice President Jusuf Kalla, has not yet turned the government into a powerhouse of effective policymaking. Even the relationship between the president and his VP is becoming a never-ending topic of speculation.

Failed generals will also be failed political leaders

Failed generals will also be failed political leaders Ziad Salim, Mataram, West Nusa Tenggara After a successful legislative election, the issue of ex- military men in politics suddenly became a hot topic, prompted, no doubt, by the emergence of two ex-generals as presidential candidates and the return of Golkar as the leading party in the new Legislature. Many see this new development not only as a return to the bad old days under another general but a potential threat to Indonesian democracy.

Walter van Oel: A Dutch colorist in Indonesia

Walter van Oel: A Dutch colorist in Indonesia Jean Couteau, Contributor, /Surabaya Raising his hands above his head, as if calling to heaven, the man blurts out: "Nature is energy. I myself am energy and everything is connected through energy. As a painter, my job is to channel positive energy. This is why my painting touches anyone looking at it. Even when at first it strikes one as violent, it soon generates calm and quiet." No Indonesian artist could indeed utter such words.

BI under pressure to punish defiant banks

BI under pressure to punish defiant banks JAKARTA (JP): Bank Indonesia, the central bank, has been under pressure to take firm action against banks violating the legal lending limit regulation. Analysts have said firm action is needed to punish those who do not abide by the legal lending limit. Otherwise, they will continue to play cat and mouse with the monetary authority.

Street vendors vs administration: Partnership is crucial

Street vendors vs administration: Partnership is crucial Muninggar Sri Saraswati, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Street vendors have become a unique phenomenon in this city. Not to mention ubiquitous. Just about everywhere you turn, you can see them displaying their wares: at intersections, along the streets, outside schools and office buildings, inside public transportation, and even on the yards of mosques.

Street vendors vs administration: Partnership is crucial

Street vendors vs administration: Partnership is crucial Muninggar Sri Saraswati, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Street vendors have become a unique phenomenon in this city. Not to mention ubiquitous. Just about everywhere you turn, you can see them displaying their wares: at intersections, along the streets, outside schools and office buildings, inside public transportation, and even on the yards of mosques.

Thesis writing aids students

Thesis writing aids students By Mochtar Buchori JAKARTA (JP): One question being widely discussed these days is whether or not university students should be required to write a thesis paper at the end of their studies. Within the traditions of Indonesian university education, students must write a thesis, or skripsi (from Dutch word: scriptie) at the end of their college education, which should serve as evidence of their academic accomplishments.

TV Today: Friday, January 24, 2003

TV Today: Friday, January 24, 2003 .TB.30" .90" TVRI .tb .30" .90" 5:00 a.m.Teletilawah 6:00 News: Berita Pagi 7:30 Sarapan 8:30 Environment 9:00 Documentary 9:30 Hidup Halal 10:30 Entertainment 11:00 News: Berita Dearah 11:30 Music: Konteswara 12:00 p.m.News: Berita Siang 1:00 Talk Show: Konsultasi Keluarga 2:00 Metro Indonesia 2:30 TV Series: Kisah Imam Buchari 3:03 Children's Program 4:00 Religious Teachings 4:30 Tourism 5:03 TV Drama: Amru Bin Asih 6:00 News: Berita Petang 7:00 Talk Show:...