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Following Donald Trump's Visit, Vladimir Putin Prepares to Travel to China

Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to visit China on May 19th, signalling a potential new chapter in the bilateral relationship between Moscow and Beijing. The two-day working visit comes shortly after US President Donald Trump concluded his trip to Beijing, during which he failed to achieve any major breakthroughs regarding geopolitical tensions or the conflicts in Ukraine and Iran. Putin's agenda includes high-level talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping to strengthen their comprehensive partnership and strategic cooperation.

G-7 tells Indonesia to use restraint over social unrest

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

ASEAN to set up new short-term aid facility

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

UAE Aims to Increase Investment in Indonesia

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

Are party favors out of favor?

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

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

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

Asia top transgressor for religious repression: U.S.

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

ASEAN firms seek common stance on nontariff barriers

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

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

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

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

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

Rainbow of vegetables and fruit keep you fit

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

Misuari faces challenge of drawing back refugees

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

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

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

In memory of modern fine art pioneer

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

East Java Education Office Strengthens Vocational Education to Face the AI Era

The East Java Education Office is pursuing international collaboration, including a Letter of Intent with Shanghai's HGI Research Centre, to bolster vocational training and digital talent development. The initiative aims to equip students with advanced digital skills and global perspectives to meet evolving industry demands in the age of artificial intelligence. A delegation visited vocational institutions in Shanghai to study industry-integrated learning models and AI implementation in education.

Alatas cautious on new Timor dialog prospects

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

Jerome Polin attends Gracia Caroline's graduation at Columbia University

This article covers multiple news items, including a controversy over an LPDP scholarship recipient's British passport, the Forestry Minister's global mangrove conservation efforts at a UN forum, and political protests in New York against Trump's policies.

RI stresses continuity to potential investors

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

The oblique language

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

ASEAN anxious to push forward free trade plan

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

Redefining the role of political parties

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

Prabowo Pushes for Indonesia-France Investment Through High-Level Business Forum

President Prabowo Subianto and French President Emmanuel Macron launched the France-Indonesia High Level Business Council to bolster economic ties and investment. The forum focuses on defence, clean energy, education, and the I-EU CEPA trade agreement, which will eliminate tariffs on 80% of Indonesian exports to the EU. This partnership is expected to enhance regional stability and long-term economic growth.

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

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

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

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

Government to ask Soebandrio about `Revolution Fund'

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

Pakistani PM Phones Iranian President, Expresses Readiness to Promote Peace

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held a phone conversation with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, reaffirming Pakistan's commitment to fostering peace between Iran and the United States amid ongoing tensions. Sharif praised Iran's decision to send a high-level delegation to Islamabad for talks aimed at ending the conflict, though the planned US envoys' trip was abruptly cancelled by President Donald Trump. Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is expected to return to Pakistan after a stop in Oman, highlighting ongoing regional diplomatic efforts for security and stability.

Cak Nur 'last of great thinkers'

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

Digital Behavioural Shift Remains a Challenge for AI-Powered Public Services

An evaluation of South Tangerang's AI assistant 'Helita' reveals robust technical performance but highlights a significant cultural gap, as citizens remain reluctant to complete digital licensing processes independently. Despite high initial engagement for consultations, conversion rates for tasks like account creation and document submission remain very low, pointing to a need for simplified procedures and enhanced user education.

What does nuke power mean to Muria people?

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

Malaysia, RI to have small summit delegation

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

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

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

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

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

Projected Readiness of Indonesia's New Capital City: Nusantara

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

Presidential succession needs prudence

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

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

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

Standardization of hospital equipment urged

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

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

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

Nike clarifies

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

Kalacakra brings local production to Australia

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

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

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

Reforestation funds will be included in state budget

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

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

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

Govt ready to cover maturing bonds: Boediono

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

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

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

Activists slam plan to revise Press Law

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

Tracing the history of Indonesian thread culture

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

Le Kha Phieu means to end instability

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

President visits Habibie, plans to meet Soeharto

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

People can't stop talking about 'Gray Thursday'

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

Nusron Wahid Responds After UGM Discussion Disrupted by Students

Minister of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning Nusron Wahid expressed regret after a discussion at Gadjah Mada University was forcibly halted by protesting students. The minister stated the government is open to dialogue and criticism but condemned the undemocratic actions of a group that disrupted the event. The students argued the officials were unfit to discuss Pancasila while the government suppresses public criticism and implements wasteful programmes.

House members wrestle to push out Akbar

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

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

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

Political openness not yet real: Observers

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

US-Iran War Update: New Peace Proposal to Putin Taking Action

The latest developments in the US-Iran conflict include a new Iranian proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz in exchange for the US lifting its blockade, which is under discussion by President Trump and his national security team, though negotiations on Iran's nuclear programme remain on hold. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio dismissed Iran's demands as an attempt to control international waters, emphasising that the primary goal is to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. Meanwhile, Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi blamed Washington for the failure of previous peace talks during a visit to Russia, where President Vladimir Putin pledged full support to Tehran to end the two-month war.

IMF exit policy must be acceptable to market: Experts

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

RI to host 3-day OIC meeting to discuss Islam

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

Women try various methods to lose weight

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

Megawati arrives from Europe with domestic problems waiting

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

Indonesia likely to be a dominant issue at ASEM

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

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

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

Singapore's Foreign Minister References Strait of Hormuz and Malacca Strait During Visit to Indonesia, What Did He Say?

Singapore's Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan, during a meeting with his Indonesian counterpart in Jakarta, highlighted the escalating Middle East conflict and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which threatens global energy supplies to Asia. He praised the successful cooperation among Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore in keeping the Strait of Malacca open and secure, positioning it as a positive model for international maritime governance under UNCLOS. Balakrishnan invited Iran's Foreign Minister to Singapore to observe regional peace efforts, emphasising the importance of a rules-based international order.

RI press violates own code of ethics

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

Identity of 20 Stacked Ancient Human Remains Revealed, Scientists Stunned

New analysis of Homo naledi fossils discovered in a remote South African cave has revealed that all 20 identifiable individuals were likely female, baffling anthropologists. The findings, based on dental enamel protein testing, challenge previous assumptions about the species' social structure and suggest complex mortuary behaviour may have emerged far earlier than previously thought. The discovery raises profound questions about the role of females in this small-brained hominin group and the origins of ritualistic practices.

Hajj Quota Case: KPK Continues to Summon 2 Travel Agency Bosses as Witnesses

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is summoning two travel agency directors as witnesses in the ongoing corruption investigation into the 2023-2024 hajj quota allocations. This follows the recent charging of two additional suspects—Ismail Adham of PT Makassar Toraja and Asrul Azis Taba of PT Raudah Eksati Utama—who allegedly paid bribes totalling over $436,000 to intermediaries linked to former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas to secure extra hajj slots, resulting in illicit gains of Rp40.8 billion for affiliated operators. The case highlights systemic corruption in religious pilgrimage management, underscoring the KPK's efforts to enforce anti-corruption laws under Indonesia's criminal code.

Java, Sumatra and Kalimantan Were Once Connected: Ancient Human Migration Routes Revealed

BRIN research identifies ancient river systems in the Sunda Shelf as key migration routes for early humans in Southeast Asia during the Pleistocene. Rising sea levels submerged these pathways, but archaeological evidence in Kalimantan confirms human presence dating back 45,000 years, despite challenges in fossil preservation due to tropical climate conditions.

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

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

Artificial Intelligence Supports Research Quality in Indonesia

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

Gulf War offers chance to win `togel' lottery

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

The Importance of Public Communication on Plans for New Military Infrastructure Development

A public discussion has highlighted the need for a clear legal basis and greater transparency regarding a Defence Ministry proposal to establish Territorial Development Battalions. Experts stressed that any deployment of the military for development tasks must align with existing laws and require explicit political direction from the President. Panellists warned of potential overlaps with civilian ministries and the risk of land disputes without intensive public dialogue.

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

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

Learn about jazz at music clinics

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

Acting MPR Secretary General Urges Women Not to Fear Early Health Detection

Acting Secretary General of the Indonesian People's Consultative Assembly (MPR), Siti Fauziah, shared her personal experience with early breast health detection during an event in Jakarta, emphasising the importance of routine check-ups to prevent fear and ensure timely treatment. The event, titled 'Modern Kartini: Cultivating Early Detection', was a collaboration between MPR, Rhemedi Medical Services, and Siloam Hospitals Group, aiming to promote preventive health practices among MPR staff through screenings and education on breast cancer and abdominal issues. Siloam Hospitals highlighted their SELANGKA programme, which has served 55,000 women and targets an additional 22,000 screenings in 2026, underscoring how early detection significantly improves survival rates.

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

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

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

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

ChatGPT CEO Defends AI, Claims Humans are More Wasteful

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

Magazine closures raise doubts about direction of openness

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

Avoiding semantic chaos

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

Constitutional Court Rules that "State Loss" is Equivalent to "State Financial Loss"

The Indonesian Constitutional Court has partially granted a judicial review of the Government Administration Law, clarifying that the phrase "state loss" must be interpreted as "state financial loss" to ensure legal certainty and avoid contradictions within the legislation. This ruling addresses inconsistencies in terminology across different articles of Law No. 30/2014, promoting coherence and reinforcing good governance by positioning criminal law as a last resort for addressing financial losses from abuse of authority. The decision underscores the court's commitment to upholding constitutional principles of equality and legal certainty, potentially reducing ambiguities that could hinder anti-corruption efforts.

Australian agents raid RI Muslim homes

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

Kontras Reveals Condition of Andrie Yunus Following Acid Attack

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

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

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

Why Saiful Mujani Says Prabowo Is Not Presidential

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

Malaysia, S'pore could end problems in months

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

NAM ministers meet to discuss crucial issues

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

Unidentified assailants open fire on students rallying in Makassar

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

Much ado about autonomy

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

Australian media makes martyr of Corby

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

Trade issues will move to job protection: Subroto

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

Human resources development badly needed in regions

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

China trade beats forecasts in April despite Middle East war

China's trade performance exceeded expectations in April, with exports surging 14.1 per cent year-on-year and imports rising 25.3 per cent, defying pressures from the ongoing Middle East war and disruptions in global energy markets. This robust growth, including a rebound in exports to the United States, underscores the resilience of China's diversified economy amid domestic challenges like property sector debt and sluggish consumer spending. The upcoming summit between Presidents Xi Jinping and Donald Trump highlights trade imbalances as a key issue, potentially influencing future economic policies for the world's second-largest economy.

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

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

Territorial workshop fails to reach consensus on CBM

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

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

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

TV Today: Friday, October 25, 2002

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

Attorney General's Office Confirms Nadiem Makarim Under House Arrest, Supervision Assisted by Security Apparatus

The Attorney General's Office has confirmed that former Minister of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology Nadiem Makarim is now serving house arrest following a court ruling granting the request to change his detention status in a corruption case involving Chromebook procurement. Strict conditions include remaining at home 24 hours a day, obtaining permission for any absences, reporting twice weekly to prosecutors, and surrendering travel documents like his passport, with potential electronic monitoring and security oversight. Violation of these terms could revert his status to state detention, underscoring the judiciary's balance between leniency and accountability in high-profile corruption probes.

Latent Issues within the National Health Insurance Programme

The National Health Insurance (JKN) programme faces significant financial sustainability threats due to a heavy reliance on curative treatments and rising catastrophic disease costs. High rates of inactive participants and substantial arrears, including unpaid contributions from local governments, have pushed the programme towards a critical deficit.

InJourney Airports Prepares Family Entertainment for School Holiday Travel Surge

State-owned airport operator InJourney Airports is rolling out family-friendly entertainment and enhanced services across its network to welcome an estimated 5.46 million passengers during the school holiday period. The initiative includes thematic decorations, children's activities, and commercial collaborations at seven major airports. Passenger traffic is projected to rise by 9.72% compared to normal days, with flights increasing by 6.25%.

'Indonesia committed to privatization'

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

UMY Hosts Book Discussion on Religious Capitalism, Exploring Islamic Civilisation through an Economic Lens

Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta (UMY) recently hosted a discussion on the book 'Religious Capitalism: The Future of Islamic Civilisation' by Dr Suwarsono Muhammad. The book proposes 'religious capitalism' as a strategic economic model for the future, drawing on historical evidence of Islamic economic prosperity.

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

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

Kumham Imipas: "Port to Port" Concept a Solution to Optimise Sebatik Border Crossing Post

The Ministry of Coordinating Human Rights, Law, Immigration, and Prisons has proposed the "port to port" concept as a practical solution to optimise the Sebatik Border Crossing Post (PLBN) in Nunukan, North Kalimantan, by facilitating direct sea crossings to Tawau, Malaysia, reducing travel time and costs for locals. This approach, aligned with international practices, requires inter-agency collaboration, clear operational standards, and bilateral coordination, including the 2023 Indonesia-Malaysia Border Crossing Agreement ratification, to activate the post as an official entry point amid ongoing maritime boundary discussions. Optimising PLBN Sebatik is expected to enhance community mobility, boost local economic growth, and leverage existing facilities for tourism while ensuring robust security.

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

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

Komisi XI DPR Sebut Prabowo Tenangkan Warga: Yang Terpengaruh Dolar Orang Kaya

Chairman of Commission XI of the DPR, Mukhamad Misbakhun, stated that President Prabowo Subianto's directives regarding the weakening rupiah and strengthening US dollar are intended to reassure citizens. Misbakhun believes that the use of the US dollar in financial transactions primarily affects wealthier individuals. He also urged Bank Indonesia to maintain control over the rupiah's value and return it to an ideal level, as many people still rely on the dollar for transactions.

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

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

On the CIA's role

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

Ministers agree to secure Strait of Malacca

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

Two BAIS Members Who Attacked Andrie Yunus Show Burn Injuries in Court

Two members of the Indonesian National Armed Forces' Strategic Intelligence Agency (BAIS), Sergeant Two Edi Sudarko and First Lieutenant Budhi Hariyanto Widhi, displayed burn injuries sustained from acid splashes during an attack on Andrie Yunus, Deputy Coordinator of External Affairs for KontraS, at a military court hearing in Jakarta. The defendants described feeling heat and itching but no blistering after quickly rinsing the acid with mineral water, amid a case involving four BAIS personnel charged for the assault motivated by Yunus's criticism of militarism and disruption of a parliamentary meeting on the TNI Bill. This incident highlights tensions between military institutions and civil society activists in Indonesia, with the accused facing charges under the new Criminal Code for endangering others.

Inflation rate recovers after deflation in June

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

London blasts seen as valuable lesson for Southeast Asia

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

Muslim leaders meet on alternative force

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

Singapore -- the region's hub of corporate education

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

Political talk brews in Aceh's coffee shops

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

Gema Bangsa Proposes Implementing a Faction Threshold Scheme

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

Do You Speak French?: Remembering Sumitro Djojohadikusumo

A reflective memoir detailing a personal encounter with the late Sumitro Djojohadikusumo, the legendary Indonesian economist and founder of the University of Indonesia's Faculty of Economics. The piece explores the intellectual influences of French literature and European economic thought on his approach to political economy and nation-building.

What to do if your child wants to be an athlete

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

Sampoerna workers concerned about their fate

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

RI move to downgrade ties with Sweden counterproductive: Expert

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

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

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

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

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

Top 3: US Strikes on Iran and Prabowo Summons Ministers

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

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

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

Fears of constitutional reforms deadlock subside

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

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

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

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

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

UNM Students Create OOGIV, Advanced AI Capable of Automatically Converting PDFs and Videos into Exam Questions

Students from Nusa Mandiri University (UNM) have launched OOGIV, an AI-based startup designed to automate the creation of educational assessment questions. The platform allows educators to generate multiple-choice and essay questions instantly by uploading PDFs, images, text files, or YouTube links.

Energy Storage Technology Key to Clean Energy Transition

Energy storage systems are considered a crucial element in accelerating Indonesia's clean energy transition, particularly for integrating renewables and stabilising supply across the archipelago. The issue was highlighted at the EESA Summit Indonesia 2026, which fostered collaboration between government, industry, and technology firms. Discussions focused on regulatory support, international partnerships, and the development of microgrids to achieve net zero emissions by 2060.

Scholars predict doom, gloom after Saddam

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

South Tangerang's Poverty and Stunting Reduction Efforts Bear Fruit

The South Tangerang City Government has secured third place in the Java-Bali region for poverty alleviation and stunting reduction at the 2026 Ministry of Home Affairs awards. The city, which received Rp1 billion in appreciation funds, has reduced its stunting prevalence from 19.9 percent to 9 percent and boasts the lowest poverty rate in Banten Province at 2.36 percent. Mayor Benyamin Davnie said the achievement reflects collaboration across all elements of society and pledged to continue optimising integrated interventions.

Will this be the last?

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

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

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

Trump Claims to Have Reached a Fantastic Deal with Xi Jinping Without Discussing Tariffs

Former US President Donald Trump claims to have reached strategic trade agreements with Chinese President Xi Jinping during a high-level visit to Beijing, with the sensitive issue of tariffs not being discussed. This comes as many expected the two leaders to negotiate an extension of the one-year tariff truce agreed upon in South Korea last October. Despite not addressing tariffs, Trump asserts that the visit yielded significant results in sectors such as agriculture, aviation, and artificial intelligence.

Assessing the Direction of Welfare Policy for Honorary Teachers

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

House threatens to delay COW deliberations

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

Chinese cheongsam fashion dominates Indonesian Eid 2026 clothing trends

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

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

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

Bule and cowards

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

NATO Summit Restrictions Impact Residents in Turkish Capital

Ankara residents are bracing for a week of road closures, heightened security, and widespread restrictions as the city hosts a major NATO summit on 7-8 July. The extraordinary measures, including a ban on public gatherings and the deployment of 70,000 security personnel, are expected to significantly disrupt daily life. While authorities aim to balance security needs with urban activity, citizens and businesses are primarily concerned about practical challenges such as commuting and access to workplaces.

Indonesian women played prominent role in history

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

A president from the legislature: Soemitro's dream

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

For Sponsored Page: Singapore Corporate Education

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

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

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

RI demands "flexibility" with agriculture tariffs

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

Appointing 19 New ESDM Officials, Bahlil Warns Against Handing Out Mining Permits Indiscriminately

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia inaugurated 19 new high-ranking officials at the ministry, emphasising the need to enhance the state's role in natural resource management to boost national revenues in line with Article 33 of the 1945 Constitution. He instructed them to prioritise President Prabowo Subianto's programmes over mere administrative permitting and announced upcoming regulations for mining business permits (IUP) that will prioritise national interests, ending the practice of indiscriminately issuing permits without maximising state benefits. While pushing for greater state contributions, the government will continue to support investors and businesses in the energy sector to achieve targets like increased oil and gas production.

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

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

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

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

Rudini for abolition of permits

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

Debate rages on over central bank bill

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

The caning debate: More cons than pro

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

NAM officials call for additional meeting

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

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

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

MSME Minister furious over twofold rise in TikTok Shop commissions, calls it market abuse

MSME Minister Maman Abdurrahman and Communications and Digital Minister Meutya Hafid met to address rising e-commerce platform charges, focusing on TikTok Shop’s announced increases. They described the moves as market abuse and pledged to enforce protections for MSMEs, with plans to escalate if platforms fail to comply with new rules.

Saiful Mujani Deems Prabowo's Victory Undemocratic

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

Nusron Wahid Speaks Out on UGM Discussion Disrupted by Students

Minister of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning Nusron Wahid has condemned the disruption of a government dialogue at Gadjah Mada University by students, describing the action as undemocratic. The forum, which included officials discussing poverty alleviation and agriculture, was halted when protesters stormed the stage and later clashed with security. Student representatives stated the protest was a critique of government policies, including the free nutritious meal programme and village cooperatives, arguing officials were unfit to speak on Pancasila while suppressing public dissent.

PDI Perjuangan warns Gus Dur over delegitimation

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

Understanding Hantavirus: Symptoms, Transmission Methods, and Prevention Measures

Hantavirus, a group of viruses carried by rodents, has resurfaced as a public health concern. While not as easily transmissible as COVID-19, it can cause severe respiratory and kidney problems. Prevention focuses on controlling rodent populations and practicing safe cleaning procedures in areas where rodents are present.

The tale from the tape

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

Multatuli's message

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

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

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

Harmful forces 'threaten state'

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

Ginandjar clarifies rice distribution

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

Series of Fake Pocong Hoaxes in East Java

Multiple hoax reports of fake pocong figures in East Java have caused localised panic, prompting police to issue clarifications and urge the public to verify information. Authorities confirm no actual incidents, attributing the rumours to social media pranks and misinformation. They emphasise the need for caution to prevent unwarranted fear and vigilantism.

After Deadly Floods in Sumatra, Indonesia Moves Against Polluters

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

UK Partnership in Yogyakarta Focuses on Transportation and Climate

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

The Importance of Trust and Tax Audits in the Coretax Era

Coretax implementation began on 1 January 2025, heralding a new phase of digital taxation in Indonesia. Beyond digital tools, trust in the tax authority and effective audits are essential for securing taxpayer compliance, according to research presented at Universitas Trisakti, which emphasises a holistic approach combining technology, institutions, and law enforcement.

Single-Door Export Policy Could Strengthen National Competitiveness and Attract Investment

Indonesia is considering a single-door export policy for strategic commodities to boost its bargaining power in global pricing and increase economic value from key sectors like palm oil and mining. Stakeholders believe a more consolidated export governance model could transform the country from a primary supplier into a price-maker in international trade. However, economists caution that the policy must balance competitiveness with business certainty to maintain a healthy investment climate.

Prabowo Administration Moves Swiftly to Anticipate Mass Layoffs

The Indonesian government is holding urgent coordination meetings to address industrial gas supply issues that threaten factory closures and mass redundancies. Officials from the House of Representatives, key ministries, and labour unions are mapping out companies at risk, with one union reporting 55,000 manufacturing jobs in immediate danger. The government aims to deliver a resolution on gas pricing and supply within days to prevent a wider employment crisis.

Economists' gathering

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

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

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

RI foreign policy: What's in store for 1996

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

Susilo talks up Aceh peace process in Big Apple

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

Players see lottery as quickest way to easy money

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

Debating about condoms

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

House agrees to meet Susilo on Monday over fuel protests

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

Insight Talks in Kendari Explores Strategies for Implementing AI in Journalistic Work

The Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs (Komdigi) collaborated with Media Indonesia to hold a discussion forum called Insight Talks titled “Media Literacy: Being Smart in the Era of Artificial Intelligence” in Kendari. The event, attended by journalists, academics, students, and media activists, discussed the development of artificial intelligence (AI) and its impact on the media industry and journalistic work in Indonesia. Komdigi emphasized that while AI can assist in accelerating editorial processes, human conscience, empathy, and verification remain essential aspects of journalism.

US Arrests Two Family Members of Late Iranian General Soleimani

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

RI expects economy to pick up in Mid-2004

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

ICW distrusts government's stance on Ghalib case

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

Indonesia to present long wish list to Powell

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

PPPK Conversion to PNS: Civil Service Aspirations and Regulatory Constraints

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

Li denounces Japan's fear of China's strength

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

Among active ancestors at Candi Sukuh in C. Java

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

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.

Secrets to Quick Thesis Approval: UBSI Bekasi Campus Head Reveals What Lecturers Actually Look For

The head of UBSI's Bekasi campus clarifies that thesis approval is based on academic merit, not pity, emphasising the importance of clear arguments and professional conduct. Students who demonstrate understanding, maintain communication, and present tidy drafts are more likely to receive swift approval. The institution promotes a supportive digital ecosystem to aid research and learning.

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.

Modern Intelligence Must Analyse Digital Opinion Traffic

Intelligence analyst Amir Hamzah warns that coordinated social media attacks on President Prabowo Subianto indicate structured digital operations aimed at delegitimising his government through psychological warfare. He highlights the role of elite groups and significant resources in orchestrating these campaigns, which exploit social media algorithms to erode public trust. Hamzah urges the government to enhance digital intelligence capabilities to counter such threats before they destabilise political stability.

'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.

SHOW Token and Ministry of Creative Economy Push Indonesian Creative IP to the Global Stage

The Indonesian Ministry of Creative Economy and SHOW Token are collaborating to strengthen local intellectual property (IP) through technological integration. The initiative aims to leverage Indonesia's cultural richness and Web3 technology to expand the global reach of Indonesian creative works.

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.

International Support for Indonesia's Digital Royalty Governance Proposal Strengthens

International backing for Indonesia's digital royalty governance proposal has strengthened at the WIPO's SCCR meeting, with numerous countries and groups expressing explicit support. This reflects a growing consensus that transparent and equitable royalty systems are essential for creators in the digital era, prompting continued discussions and a planned global forum.

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.

Origin of the Deer Herd That Appeared in a Depok Residential Area Early in the Morning Revealed

A herd of deer was spotted in a residential area of Depok early one morning. The deer originated from a fishing spot called Kabeda, where they are kept. Locals are accustomed to seeing the deer and there is no concern about their presence.

Institut Leimena: Pancasila Affirms Universal Values as Foundation of the Nation

Institut Leimena highlighted Pancasila's universal values as Indonesia's foundational principles, stressing their relevance in combating global xenophobia through social cohesion and interfaith cooperation. Experts noted the ideology's alignment with international concepts like 'ubuntu' and its role in strengthening civil service competencies and national unity, as showcased in Indonesia's G20 leadership and ongoing educational initiatives.

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.

Iran Seizes Hui Chuan, a Floating Armory, in the Gulf of Oman

Iranian forces have seized the Hui Chuan, a vessel operating as a floating armory, in the Gulf of Oman, raising tensions in the vital Middle Eastern shipping lane. The incident follows a series of maritime security incidents and occurs amid heightened geopolitical tensions, with implications for global energy trade and insurance costs in the region.

Indonesia CIO 200 Summit 2026 Drives Indonesian Tech Leaders Towards Global Stage

The Indonesia CIO 200 Summit 2026 has convened over 200 technology leaders in Jakarta to strengthen Indonesia's position as an emerging regional tech hub. The forum highlighted the importance of community, the integration of Artificial Intelligence in business, and the launch of a new initiative to increase female representation in the technology sector.

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.

UMJ Lecturer Discusses Extraordinary Crime at International Conference in Malaysia

A lecturer from the University of Muhammadiyah Jakarta addressed the threat of extraordinary crime in Indonesia during an international conference in Malaysia. He emphasised the need for community-based extremism prevention strategies using social media and religious moderation education. The approach supports President Prabowo Subianto's 'Asta Cita' programme to strengthen national unity and counter radical ideologies.

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.

Why is Pertalite Being Considered for Removal?

The Indonesian government is reviewing the future of subsidised Pertalite (RON 90) fuel as rising global oil prices strain the state budget. The World Bank has highlighted that 50% of fuel subsidies benefit the wealthiest 20% of households, urging a shift towards direct cash transfers for the poor. While no official decision has been made, signals such as tighter quota controls and the expansion of non-subsidised fuel stations suggest a transition towards higher-quality fuels is underway.

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.

Hundreds of Content Creators Learn to Build Personal Branding in Bandung

Hundreds of content creators from various regions in West Java gathered in Bandung for a Creator Playdate event organized by Vici Society. The event focused on strategies for building personal branding and navigating the competitive digital content industry, with speakers sharing their experiences and tips for emerging creators.

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.

Smart Because of AI or Smart in Using AI?

The widespread adoption of AI tools like ChatGPT among students is transforming education in Indonesia, offering unprecedented access to knowledge and personalised learning. However, this convenience raises concerns about the erosion of critical thinking, independent problem-solving, and academic integrity. The article argues that the focus should not be on banning AI, but on teaching students to use it as a collaborative tool to enhance, rather than replace, their own intellectual development.

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.

Characteristics of the Lower-Class Society: Do You Belong?

As inflation and layoffs blur the lines between social classes, a report highlights five key financial and lifestyle indicators that define the lower or lower-middle class in Indonesia. These markers include housing burdens, precarious informal employment, a complete lack of savings or investments, rigid budgets with no room for leisure, and systemic barriers to higher education. The analysis serves as a financial reality check rather than a pessimistic label, urging individuals to reassess their priorities and income strategies.

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.

Bank Of Indonesia Assures Bali Tourist Vacations Won’t Be Impacted By Rising Fuel Costs

Bank Indonesia's Bali representative has sought to reassure tourists that rising fuel prices will not significantly impact their holidays, citing the tourism sector's flexibility in adjusting service prices, especially with a stronger US dollar. However, local tour operators report that increased transportation costs are already forcing price hikes and causing some trip cancellations. Mitigation measures are being prepared to control inflation and protect both local communities and the tourism industry.

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.

Strategy for Building an Inclusive Financial Ecosystem in Indonesia

Indonesia faces a significant gap between high financial inclusion and low financial literacy, prompting calls for a more holistic ecosystem. At a recent forum, government officials and industry leaders stressed the need for targeted education, infrastructure, and simple product design to empower grassroots communities, particularly women. The discussion highlighted that connectivity and financial health are as critical as access to formal accounts.

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.

Beabiiovy: From Content Creator to Profit — She Shares Her Tips

Beabiiovy, a Bandung-born content creator, has built a thriving online presence and business empire, expanding from affiliate marketing to brand ambassador roles and a joint venture with her husband. She emphasises authenticity, long-term value, and emotional branding, offering tips for aspiring creators aiming to monetise their online influence.

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.

F4 concert euphoria in Jakarta highlights enduring appeal of 2000s Mandarin entertainment

The F4 reunion concert in Jakarta, extended to three days due to overwhelming demand, underscores the lasting cultural impact of 2000s Mandarin entertainment in Indonesia. Fans, including those who grew up with 'Meteor Garden' and Mandopop, showcased nostalgia as the event bridged generations and highlighted entertainment's role in collective memory.

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.

Chinese Youth Flood Applications for Shepherd Roles – What's Behind the Trend?

A surge in applications for remote shepherd jobs in China has highlighted growing labour market pressures, with underemployment rising despite official unemployment rates below 6%. Economists warn of worsening conditions due to AI adoption and a record influx of graduates, as urban jobs become less attractive and competitive.

Mathematics Lecturer Becomes Rich After Applying His Knowledge in Investment

A mathematics lecturer successfully became a billionaire by applying his knowledge to the world of investment. James 'Jim' Simons founded Renaissance Technologies, a quantitative hedge fund that achieved an average annual return of around 60%. The firm's Medallion Fund generated over $100 billion in profits between 1988 and 2018.

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.

This Devil Fruit That Would Suit Roronoa Zoro to Eat in One Piece

The piece surveys fan speculation about which Devil Fruit would best suit Roronoa Zoro, referencing Eiichiro Oda’s official SBS guidance that, if Zoro were to have a Devil Fruit, the Uo Uo no Mi, Model: Seiryu would be the most fitting. It discusses potential alternative fruits such as Supa Supa no Mi and Shari Shari no Mi, and explains why the swordsman’s strength is rooted in Santoryu and haki rather than supernatural powers.

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.

PPPA Urges Serious Action on Alleged Child Sexual Exploitation in Blok M, South Jakarta

Indonesia's Ministry for Women's Empowerment and Child Protection (PPPA) has urged a serious, comprehensive response to allegations of child sexual exploitation involving a Japanese national in Blok M, South Jakarta. The minister emphasised that child sexual exploitation is a grave violation of children's rights and cannot be tolerated; responses must prioritise the best interests of the child, from legal proceedings to recovery. The PPPA called for protection of victims' identities, psychological and psychosocial support, health services, and comprehensive social reintegration, while preventing revictimisation during investigations.

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.

Strengthen Community Roles to Reduce Maternal and Infant Mortality at the Global Forum

At the World Health Assembly in Geneva, a global forum on primary health care and community entry points to accelerate maternal health underscored the need for continuity of care from communities to referral facilities. Indonesia, represented by Prof. Rinawati Rohsiswatmo, stressed community-strengthened services and data-driven approaches as essential to reducing maternal and infant mortality, and announced steps including the 1000 HPK Consortium for Indonesia 2045. The discussions highlighted a shift toward primary care, stronger health workforce, system integration, and community engagement to meet SDG targets by 2030.

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.

Indef Analysis: Majority Respond Negatively to Pertamax Price Hike, Fear Pertalite Scarcity

An analysis by the Institute for Development of Economics and Finance (Indef) reveals that 98.12 per cent of public sentiment on social media is negative towards the recent 30 per cent increase in Pertamax fuel prices. The dominant concern is that the price hike will force consumers to switch to the subsidised Pertalite, potentially causing stock scarcity and a subsequent price increase. The findings also highlight public anger over perceived government inconsistency and fears of a domino effect on the broader economy.

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.

MPR RI and Atma Jaya Law Faculty Discuss Minutes of the 1945 Constitution Amendments

The People's Consultative Assembly (MPR RI) and Atma Jaya University Yogyakarta's Law Faculty held a forum to elevate the official minutes of Indonesia's constitutional amendments as a key legal reference. Officials argued these archival documents are underutilised assets that must be revived to strengthen constitutional literacy, particularly in the post-truth era. The collaboration aims to transform MPR's documentation into a national centre for constitutional studies.

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.

US and Iran Agree Peace Deal, Trump Declares: 'Let the Oil Flow!'

Pakistan's Prime Minister announced that the United States and Iran have reached a peace agreement, with a formal signing ceremony expected in Switzerland on Friday. President Donald Trump confirmed the deal, authorising the immediate reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and the lifting of the US naval blockade. Iranian officials also acknowledged the agreement, with state media framing it as a victory and reporting draft terms including a permanent ceasefire and the unfreezing of Iranian funds.

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.

Time for Indonesia to Look at Nuclear Power

As Indonesia pursues its net-zero emission target by 2060, the country must overcome its deep-seated stigma against nuclear energy and begin serious discussions on its adoption. The article argues that modern fourth-generation reactors offer vastly improved passive safety features, while providing reliable, carbon-free baseload power that intermittent renewables cannot match. With over 450 reactors operating globally and decades of safety lessons learned, the author contends that ignoring nuclear power would make Indonesia's clean energy transition significantly harder.

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.

Vladimir Putin Meets Xi Jinping in Beijing

Putin and Xi Jinping are scheduled for a dense agenda in Beijing, including talks at the Great Hall of the People, a meeting with Premier Li Qiang, a state banquet to mark 25 years of bilateral friendship, and a visit to a joint photo exhibition. Energy cooperation is a major focus, with rising oil and gas trade and discussions on the Power of Siberia 2 pipeline, while about 40 documents, including a joint statement on a multipolar world order, are expected to be signed. The visit also sparks calls from Western leaders for Russia to end the Ukraine invasion.

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.

Halal Extends Beyond Alcohol and Pork: Key Issues in Imported Food Products

Experts warn that halal certification for imported foods involves more than avoiding pork and alcohol, with factors like enzymes and fermentation byproducts requiring careful scrutiny. The LPPOM MUI workshop highlighted misconceptions among consumers, stressing the need for official verification and awareness of regulatory processes. This underscores the importance of accurate halal labelling and adherence to Indonesian certification standards for imported goods.

Road to ISS 2026: How Far Will the Revised POJK on Bank Business Plans Become a Tailwind for 100 GW Solar Investment?

As Indonesia pursues energy self-sufficiency with a target of 100 GW of solar power, the Financial Services Authority (OJK) is revising its regulation on Bank Business Plans to potentially channel more financing into national priority projects. The revision aims to shift banking portfolios from fossil fuels to renewable energy, addressing the current low level of green financing which stands at just 2.7% of environmentally sound business loans. The upcoming Indonesia Solar Summit 2026 in Bali is expected to serve as a platform to strengthen government commitment and promote regional investment potential.

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.

Clarifying Indonesia's Economic Growth

Indonesia's economic growth in Q1 2026 was primarily driven by household consumption and investment, not government spending, according to BPS data. Household consumption contributed over twice as much to growth as government expenditure, with manufacturing, trade, and agriculture as key sectors. Analysts caution against misinterpreting high growth rates in government spending without considering its smaller share of GDP and base effects.

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.

Trump Claims Xi Jinping Offered Assistance to Ease Tensions in the Strait of Hormuz

During a state visit to Beijing, President Donald Trump claimed that President Xi Jinping offered to help de-escalate tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, which has been blockaded by Iran since the conflict with the United States began on February 28th. Trump also stated that Xi pledged not to provide military equipment to Iran and that both leaders reached significant trade agreements.

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.

Xi Jinping and Trump Agree to Strengthen Coordination Amid Iran War

Chinese President Xi Jinping and US President Donald Trump agreed to enhance communication and coordination on international and regional issues, particularly the Middle East conflict involving Iran. This agreement followed Trump's state visit to Beijing, the first by a US president since 2017, where both leaders discussed key issues and reached new understandings. The leaders also agreed on a new vision for building a constructive and stable strategic relationship between China and the US.

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.

Digital Learning Transformation Makes Student Progress Analysis More Efficient

The transformation of digital learning enables broader access to education, unconstrained by time or location. This shift also provides teachers with tools to manage classes, assign tasks, and analyse student progress, leading to more efficient education. A team of lecturers from Mercu Buana University implemented a 'Smart Classroom' concept at SMK YMIK Joglo in West Jakarta as part of their community service program, focusing on utilising modern technology to enhance the learning experience.

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.

Islamic Investment Ethics: Seeking Profit Without Losing Blessings

As Indonesia's investor base surpasses 20 million, dominated by young people, the ethical alignment of investment practices with Islamic principles is often overlooked. Islam provides clear guidance on wealth management, prohibiting riba (usury), gharar (uncertainty), and maysir (gambling), while promoting profit-and-loss sharing. Sharia-compliant banking offers practical alternatives through schemes like mudharabah and musyarakah, emphasising that the right to profit must be balanced with the willingness to bear risk.

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.

Official List of iPhones Receiving iOS 27 and Its Latest Range of Features

Apple has officially announced iOS 27, introducing significant advancements in AI capabilities through Siri and Apple Intelligence. The update promises enhanced performance, smarter automation, and robust new parental control features.

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...

ARTJOG 2026 Committee Addresses Sponsor Controversy Involving Prabowo's Son's Foundation

The organising committee of the ARTJOG 2026 art festival has responded to public criticism over its sponsorship by the Didit Hediprasetyo Foundation, linked to President Prabowo Subianto's son. Following protests, including a theatrical performance that was forcibly halted, the committee has removed the foundation's name from official materials as a gesture of respect for public feedback. Organisers maintain the foundation's role was purely financial and non-interventional, while apologising for alleged security violence against a protesting artist.

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.

Nusron and Sudaryono's Remarks After UGM Discussion Disrupted by Students

A discussion forum at Gadjah Mada University featuring three government officials was disrupted by protesting students, leading to heated exchanges and a brief chase. Minister Nusron Wahid expressed regret over the 'anti-democratic' disruption, while Deputy Minister Sudaryono denied fleeing, stating they were open to dialogue. Student representatives claimed the action was a legitimate protest against a government they accuse of silencing criticism and wasting public funds.

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.

The Urgency of MSME Development in Indonesia's Economic Growth

An op-ed argues that developing MSMEs is essential for inclusive growth in Indonesia, citing Medang Village's community-based empowerment as a model. It advocates policy support beyond regulation—providing capital access, training, halal certification, and digitalisation—underpinned by socio-legal and syariah economic principles.

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.

The Devil Fruits Most Suited for Vinsmoke Sanji to Eat in One Piece

An in-depth exploration of which Devil Fruits would most logically enhance Vinsmoke Sanji’s fighting style in One Piece, weighing tactical gains against narrative balance. While several options are considered, including invisibility, underwater mobility and light-speed powers, the piece concludes that Suke Suke no Mi remains the strongest tactical candidate, emphasising Sanji's humanity and cooking identity as central to his arc.

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.

From Solar to SMR: Which Renewable Energy Technology Best Suits Indonesia?

The article explores various renewable energy technologies suitable for Indonesia's diverse geographical and economic conditions, highlighting solar, wind, small modular reactors, and hydrogen. It emphasises that while each technology has strengths and challenges, a diversified approach is crucial for meeting the country's net zero emissions target by 2060.

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.