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Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:36 WIB
Cabinet Meeting: Ministers and Agency Heads Begin Arriving at the Palace
President Prabowo Subianto is due to chair a plenary cabinet meeting at the Presidential Palace complex in Jakarta, with ministers and agency heads arriving ahead of the session. Deputy Coordinating Minister Viva Yoga Mauladi said the meeting will coordinate, integrate and monitor government programmes across ministries and agencies.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:35 WIB
Warning: These LQ45 Giants Have Low Valuations
Indonesian shares have fallen sharply amid uncertainty over MSCI’s market-classification review, but several large-cap LQ45 constituents still trade at low price-to-earnings and price-to-book ratios. Bank Tabungan Negara and Indah Kiat Pulp & Paper have the lowest PER and PBV respectively, while Alamtri Resources and Bank Negara Indonesia offer the highest dividend yields in the group; low ratios alone, however, do not prove that a share is undervalued.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:34 WIB
Sukoharjo Tramadol Factory Had Been Operating Since 2025, Turnover Reached Rp3 Billion
Police say two illegal factories in Sukoharjo producing Tramadol and Trihexyphenidyl had been operating since 2025 and July 2026, respectively. Sixteen people were arrested and 7.8 million tablets seized; one factory was reported to generate daily turnover of Rp2 billion to Rp3 billion.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:34 WIB
Worker in Jimbaran Killed by Sheets of Glass Falling from Pickup Truck
A worker identified as SE died after eight sheets of glass fell on him while he was helping transfer the load between vehicles in Jimbaran, Bali. Police believe the glass toppled because the pickup was unbalanced, with the sheets stacked on its right side.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:32 WIB
BI: Global Economic Outlook Remains Weak, Uncertainty Still High
Bank Indonesia expects global growth to remain weak at around 3 per cent in 2026, with inflation at about 4.6 per cent and financial-market uncertainty elevated amid intensifying Middle East tensions. Indonesia’s economy is expected to remain resilient, supported by government stimulus, improving business and consumer confidence, investment and exports, with growth forecast at 4.9–5.7 per cent in 2026.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:31 WIB
Banyuwangi Holds Santri Forum to Gather Aspirations of Pesantren Students
Banyuwangi Regency has held its first Rembug Santri forum, bringing together 50 students from 15 Islamic boarding schools to share concerns and proposals with local officials. Their recommendations include digital skills training, clearer rules for sound-system events, and stronger prevention of bullying and violence in pesantren, which the regency says will inform future policies and programmes.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:31 WIB
Jakarta to Conduct Weather Modification Ahead of Running Festival and Ye Concert
Jakarta’s provincial government plans weather-modification operations on 22–23 October to improve air quality and support the Jakarta Running Festival and a Ye concert on 24–25 October. Governor Pramono Anung said the events are expected to boost the capital’s economy, so the city will seek to ensure conditions are safe and comfortable for participants and concertgoers.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:30 WIB
Bahlil Notes That No Golkar Chairman Has Ever Become President of Indonesia
Golkar chairman Bahlil Lahadalia highlighted that no leader of the party has gone on to become president, although Sudharmono served as vice-president from 1988 to 1993 after leading Golkar. He said the party’s purpose is to advance social welfare and expand its parliamentary representation, rather than simply to secure the presidency for its chairman.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:30 WIB
No-Promotion Policy for Primary to Senior High School Students to Return; House Commission X Raises Concerns
Commission X of Indonesia’s House of Representatives supports reinstating the policy requiring students who do not meet minimum learning standards to repeat a year, planned for the 2027/2028 academic year. Lawmaker MY Esti Wijayanti says it could strengthen learning motivation and basic literacy, but urges attention to students’ psychological wellbeing, targeted enrichment and suitable textbooks; implementing rules are still being prepared.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:30 WIB
Asset Tokenisation Could Broaden Access to Investment
Asset tokenisation could widen access to digital investment by allowing investors to buy fractional exposure to assets, but it does not remove the underlying risks. The Financial Services Authority (OJK) is preparing rules covering governance, offerings and consumer protection, while investors are urged to scrutinise each product’s legal rights, transparency and liquidity.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:29 WIB
NVIDIA and ITB Encourage Students to Develop AI Talent
NVIDIA and the Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB) are working together to help students build AI skills and develop solutions for industry and society. ITB says universities must adapt teaching and assessment to AI while preserving critical thinking, and is drafting campus rules to guide responsible use of the technology.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:29 WIB
Human Rights Minister Says Development Must Be Felt by the People
Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai said development should be judged by tangible improvements in people’s lives, including access to education, healthcare, worker protections and public services. At the 2026 National Human Rights Development Planning Conference, he called for human rights priorities to shape policy, budgets and services, and for progress to be measured by concrete outcomes, particularly for vulnerable and underserved communities.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:29 WIB
Bamsoet Urges Universities to Produce Graduates Who Create Jobs
Wantimpres member Bambang Soesatyo says universities should equip students with technological skills, entrepreneurial ability and adaptability to AI so they can create jobs rather than merely seek them. He also highlighted Unperba’s new degree programmes and scholarship scheme for students from disadvantaged backgrounds, arguing that higher education should support local economic development and social mobility.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:28 WIB
North Korea tells border troops to take ‘resolute action’ if South threatens their safety
North Korea has instructed troops stationed at its border with South Korea to take “prompt and resolute action” if they believe their safety is threatened, as tensions between the two sides intensify. The warning follows Seoul’s pledge to respond firmly to further provocations and comes amid Pyongyang’s ongoing fortification of the border.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:28 WIB
Forestry Minister Says Six Companies Involved in Forest Fires Have Been Suspended
Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni says the ministry has suspended six companies over forest and land fires in Central Kalimantan, ordering them to restore the affected forest ecosystem. The listed concessions include burned areas ranging from 193 to 4,803 hectares; Antoni said enforcement should apply to corporations as well as small farmers.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:27 WIB
Kodam Jaya Denies Abandoned Electric Motorbikes in Bekasi Belong to the Military
Kodam Jaya has denied that electric motorbikes seen parked in an open lot in Bekasi belong to the Indonesian military, saying checks found no matching vehicles in its units. The National Nutrition Agency and the Attorney General’s Office have also said the bikes are not theirs and are unrelated to the agency’s 2025 procurement or the associated corruption case evidence.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:26 WIB
Singapore travellers can now use DBS PayLah! in Taiwan
DBS PayLah! users can now make QR-code payments at more than 250,000 participating merchants in Taiwan, with the app displaying the exchange rate and Singapore-dollar amount before payment. The launch extends DBS’s cross-border QR payment links and is part of a wider Singapore–Taiwan initiative, with broader merchant coverage and reciprocal payments planned for 2027.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:25 WIB
Zero-Down-Payment Home and Vehicle Loans Extended Until 2027
Bank Indonesia has extended its 100% loan-to-value and financing-to-value facility for property lending, and a minimum zero down-payment requirement for new motor vehicles, through 31 December 2027. The measures apply from 1 January 2027 and are subject to eligibility criteria for banks providing property loans.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:25 WIB
Malaysia Respects Other Countries’ Dignity and Sovereignty Amid Haze Issue
Malaysia says it will respect Indonesia’s sovereignty while defending Malaysians’ rights in response to transboundary haze pollution. Its response combines regional diplomacy, offers of operational assistance to Indonesia, and plans for longer-term cooperation on fire prevention and climate issues.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:25 WIB
Bali lawmaker calls for greater protection for tourism workers
Bali lawmaker I Nyoman Parta has called for stronger legal protections for tourism workers employed as casual daily labourers for extended periods, noting that regulations require their status to convert to permanent employment after specified work patterns. He also urged policymakers to consider Bali’s high living costs when setting the 2027 provincial minimum wage, arguing that tourism growth should be matched by improved worker welfare and protection of local culture.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:25 WIB
PDI-P Expels Klaten Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo After He Is Named a KPK Suspect
The Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P) says it has expelled Klaten Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo after the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) named him a suspect in an alleged bribery and gratification case. The party says it had previously summoned and warned him; the KPK has also named two other people as suspects and detained all three for an initial 20 days.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:25 WIB
Major General Putra Widiastawa: The Man from Singaraja Now Leading Udayana Regional Military Command
Major General Putra Widiastawa Dwi Agung Susilo has formally taken up the post of commander of the IX/Udayana Regional Military Command, replacing Major General Piek Budyakto, who will lead the V/Brawijaya command. The Bali-born officer has served in a range of command and staff roles, including deployments in several operational areas; officials say his appointment is expected to ensure leadership continuity and strengthen the command’s work.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:24 WIB
Jakarta Public Transport Users Reach 368 Million by September 2026, Up 10.8%
Jakarta recorded 368.4 million passenger trips on Transjakarta, MRT Jakarta and LRT Jakarta through September 2026, an increase of 10.8% on the previous period. Governor Pramono Anung attributed the growth to improved connectivity and expanding Transjabodetabek services, and said the city would consider adding routes to link Jakarta with surrounding areas.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:24 WIB
ITS Expert Warns of Health Risks from Heatwaves
Health experts at Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember (ITS) warn that heatwaves can cause severe dehydration, skin damage and mental-health effects, with older people and those with pre-existing conditions particularly vulnerable. They recommend limiting heat exposure, staying hydrated, maintaining skin and body hygiene, and using sunscreen as extreme weather becomes more common amid climate change.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:24 WIB
Bandung Mayor Introduces CAFEO 44 Delegates to the City’s History and Technology
Bandung Mayor Muhammad Farhan outlined the city’s development through infrastructure, technical education and industry to engineering delegates attending the 44th Conference of the ASEAN Federation of Engineering Organisations. He stressed that engineers and innovation will be vital in applying science and technology to meet future challenges amid increasingly complex, borderless digital competition.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:23 WIB
Bank Indonesia Holds Benchmark Interest Rate at 5.75 Per Cent
Bank Indonesia has kept its benchmark rate at 5.75 per cent, while raising the Deposit Facility rate to 5 per cent, as it seeks to stabilise the rupiah amid persistent external pressures. The central bank will also strengthen incentives for foreign-exchange hedging and maintain accommodative macroprudential and payment-system policies to support lending and sustainable economic growth.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:23 WIB
Pramono Flags DKI Jakarta’s 54.39% Budget Spending: ‘Don’t Leave It Until Year-End’
Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has urged regional agencies to speed up budgeted activities after spending reached only 54.39% of the 2026 regional budget allocation by 30 September. He called for earlier preparation to prevent year-end spending bunching, while stressing that budget transparency and effectiveness should be judged by their impact on public services and the city’s development.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:23 WIB
Boxing ring beneath Kampung Melayu flyover in East Jakarta nearly complete
East Jakarta’s municipal administration says a boxing facility beneath the Kampung Melayu flyover is nearly ready, with two rings and eight punching bags already installed. The city plans to offer free, scheduled training and work with boxing organisations to provide coaching, turning underused space into a community sports and youth development hub.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:20 WIB
Lebanon Denies Israeli Allegations Over Hezbollah Disarmament
Lebanon’s army has rejected Israeli accusations that it failed to disarm Hezbollah and dismantle its military infrastructure south of the Litani River, saying its operations were documented by the ceasefire monitoring committee. The dispute comes amid continued Israeli attacks and occupation in Lebanon, despite agreements that provide for Israeli withdrawal and the deployment of Lebanese forces.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:19 WIB
62 Couples at Central Java Mass Wedding Receive Business Capital and Honeymoon
A mass wedding in Central Java brought together 62 couples and offered support extending beyond the ceremony, including business start-up capital and a honeymoon. Organisers and provincial officials said the initiative aims to ease access to legally recognised marriage, strengthen families and encourage their economic independence, with plans to take the programme to Maluku for 500 couples.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:19 WIB
Indonesia’s QRIS to Expand to Timor-Leste and Hong Kong, with Trials Starting in Q4 2026
Bank Indonesia plans to begin sandbox trials for cross-border QRIS payment links with Timor-Leste and Hong Kong in the fourth quarter of 2026. The initiative supports the central bank’s digital payments blueprint and is intended to make cross-border transactions easier for consumers and businesses.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:18 WIB
Government to Discount Train, Plane and Ship Fares During Christmas and New Year Holidays
The government plans to repeat transport fare discounts for the 2026/2027 Christmas and New Year holiday period, modelled on incentives offered during Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr. It also expects to provide food aid and wage subsidies in the fourth quarter of 2026, with overall budget-funded stimulus of about Rp31 trillion, while some transport discounts will be covered by state-owned enterprises.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:17 WIB
RoboParty launches RP1 in Southeast Asia, expanding open robotics for education and research
RoboParty has launched RP1, a full-stack open-source humanoid platform, in Southeast Asia to support advanced robotics and embodied AI research, complementing its DIY RPO kit for education and early-stage development. The two platforms offer universities and researchers adaptable options, with RP1 providing integrated tools and established motion capabilities intended to help teams focus on more complex research.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:17 WIB
Airlangga Targets 17.6 Million Tourist Visits Through Tourism Special Economic Zones
Indonesia is targeting 16–17.6 million international tourist arrivals in 2026, supported by six tourism Special Economic Zones (SEZs), with foreign-exchange earnings projected at US$24 billion. Airlangga Hartarto said achieving the goal will require stronger promotion, tourism skills and transport links; cumulative investment across all 25 SEZs has reached Rp382.1 trillion.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:17 WIB
Silent on Gibran’s Diploma Controversy, PDI-P Politician Slams Parliament: ‘The Oath Is to God, Not to Humans’
PDI-P lawmaker Komarudin Watubun criticised Parliament for remaining silent over questions about Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s diploma and urged MPs to consider an inquiry. He said scrutiny of possible constitutional or legal breaches was a duty of all lawmakers, while stressing that he was speaking individually and that any formal move by his party would require careful political consideration.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:17 WIB
Fire-Damaged KMP Batumandi in Sunda Strait to Be Towed to Bojonegara
KMP Batumandi, which caught fire near Merak Port in Banten, remains in the process of being cooled before it is towed to a shipyard in Bojonegara for further handling. All 460 passengers and crew were evacuated safely, although 11 people required further medical treatment.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:17 WIB
Prosecutors Ask Court to Reject Nurman Herin’s Objection in Former Jampidsus Money-Laundering Case
Prosecutors have urged the Central Jakarta Corruption Court to reject Nurman Herin’s objection to the indictment and proceed to the evidentiary stage. They say the indictment clearly sets out his alleged role alongside former Jampidsus Febrie Adriansyah and two others, and that the objections raised do not provide grounds to invalidate it. Nurman is accused of money laundering involving Rp346.7 billion and US$440,990.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:17 WIB
Unhas and Nine Universities from Five Countries Join Forces to Improve Education
Hasanuddin University (Unhas) has signed nine memoranda of understanding with universities in Türkiye, the Philippines, Taiwan, Malaysia and Australia to strengthen education and academic cooperation. The agreements could lead to student exchanges, further study and double-degree programmes, as well as joint research and publications, but their implementation will depend on follow-up by faculties and study programmes.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:16 WIB
Pramono: Jakarta’s Poverty Rate Falls Below 4% for the First Time
Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo says the capital’s poverty rate fell to 3.96% in March 2026, the first time it has dipped below 4%. He also reported improvements in unemployment and labour-force participation, and highlighted provincial vocational training programmes linking trainees with 214 companies and preparing workers for overseas jobs.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:16 WIB
Israeli Minister Boasts of Gaza’s Destruction and Mocks Palestinians
Israel’s National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has faced renewed criticism after posting an AI-generated campaign video depicting Gaza as a ruined city in 2030 and mocking Palestinians who remain there. The video comes ahead of Israel’s 27 October legislative election, with polls showing neither Netanyahu’s coalition nor the opposition bloc close to the 61 seats needed for a parliamentary majority.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:15 WIB
BI Forecasts Current Account Deficit of 1.6–2.4% in 2026
Bank Indonesia expects Indonesia’s current account deficit to remain between 1.6% and 2.4% of GDP in 2026, while warning that external resilience needs strengthening. The current account deficit widened to US$12.5 billion in the second quarter of 2026, or 3.3% of GDP, even as the overall balance of payments deficit narrowed sharply from the previous quarter.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:13 WIB
92 Cisarua Students Taken to Hospital in Suspected Food Poisoning Case
Ninety-two students at a state junior high school in Cisarua, Bogor Regency, were taken to hospital after suspected food poisoning following a Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) meal. The cause has not been confirmed, and officials said they were awaiting the hospital doctors’ assessment while prioritising the students’ safety.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:13 WIB
Batam Transport Agency to Procure 10 Electric Minibuses for Feeder Services in 2027
Batam’s transport agency plans to procure 10 electric minibuses for Trans Batam feeder services on four routes in Sekupang and Batu Aji, with operations targeted to begin in May 2027, subject to budget approval. The programme will use a buy-the-service model and is part of a broader expansion that also includes five additional buses and charging infrastructure.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:10 WIB
Police investigate case of domestic worker accused of molesting employer’s child with special needs in East Jakarta
Jakarta police are investigating allegations that a domestic worker sexually abused her employer’s five-year-old son, who has special needs, in East Jakarta. The child’s mother first reported the case to East Jakarta Police, withdrew the complaint the following day and then reported it to Metro Jaya Police, which is now examining evidence and witnesses.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:10 WIB
Government Ramps Up Special Economic Zone Projects; Manpower Minister Outlines Benefits for Indonesia’s Workforce
Manpower Minister Yassierli hopes special economic zones (SEZs) will become hubs for vocational training and broader recruitment, helping develop a skilled Indonesian workforce. The government is proposing to integrate national apprenticeships and vocational training with education, start-up and MSME support into an ecosystem that can serve as a “talent engine” for future industry-specific skills and experience.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:10 WIB
East Kalimantan Governor’s Aide Apologises After Viral Video Shows Him Blocking Student Protesters
East Kalimantan Governor Rudy Mas’ud’s aide, Asky Rizal Toding, has apologised after a video showed him confronting students during a protest in Samarinda. Toding acknowledged his conduct was wrong, said he acted spontaneously without instructions, and pledged not to repeat it.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:09 WIB
BI Cuts Reserve Requirements to 7% for Conventional Banks and 5.5% for Islamic Banks
Bank Indonesia will cut reserve requirements in two stages from November 2026, lowering the rate for conventional banks to 7% and for Islamic banks and Islamic business units to 5.5%. The move is intended to improve monetary policy effectiveness, keep inflation in check and strengthen liquidity, alongside a reduction in the KLM incentive rate.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:09 WIB
Food & Hospitality Asia 2027 to Showcase New Industry Platforms and Competitions
Informa Markets says FHA 2027 will expand its exhibition with new zones for food manufacturing, travel catering and private-label products, building on the launch of IndusFood Asia at the 2026 event. The programme will also feature culinary festivals, ingredient and pizza-and-pasta competitions, and beverage experiences, aiming to promote industry collaboration, innovation and business opportunities across the global food and hospitality sectors.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:07 WIB
BI-Rate Holds at 5.75%, Deposit Facility Rate Rises to 5%
Bank Indonesia has kept its benchmark BI-Rate at 5.75 per cent while raising the deposit facility rate by 25 basis points to 5 per cent; the lending facility rate remains at 6.5 per cent. Governor Destry Damayanti said the move, alongside stronger incentives for DNDF hedging instruments, is intended to attract foreign capital, stabilise the rupiah and support money- and foreign-exchange-market development amid stronger external pressures.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:07 WIB
Airlangga Says Special Economic Zone Development Could Help Achieve 8% Growth
Coordinating Economic Affairs Minister Airlangga Hartarto says expanding special economic zones (SEZs) could help Indonesia reach its 8 per cent economic growth target, citing their lower investment inefficiency ratio than the national average. Indonesia has far less SEZ land than Vietnam and Malaysia, while investment in the zones has reached Rp382.1 trillion since 2012.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:07 WIB
Metro Jakarta Police Deny Arresting Six Greenpeace Activists
Metro Jakarta Police say six Greenpeace Indonesia activists were taken to the force’s headquarters for medical treatment after becoming weak and dizzy while climbing down from the Welcome Statue, not arrested. The activists were evacuated after displaying a banner at Jakarta’s Hotel Indonesia Roundabout, with police saying their priority was safeguarding their physical and mental wellbeing.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:06 WIB
Why Destry Kept BI Rate at 5.75% in October 2026
Bank Indonesia held its benchmark rate at 5.75% while raising the deposit facility rate to 5%, citing the need to stabilise the rupiah amid external pressures and keep inflation under control. The central bank is also strengthening incentives and hedging instruments to attract foreign capital and deepen domestic money and foreign-exchange markets.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:05 WIB
KPK Probes Links Between ATR/BPN Corruption Case and Alleged Vote-Buying at NU Congress
Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is investigating whether Rp250 million returned by the Nias branch of Nahdlatul Ulama is connected to the organisation’s 35th Congress and a bribery case involving the Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency (ATR/BPN). The money has been seized while investigators assess its relevance as evidence; separately, the KPK has seized Rp106.3 billion and named eight suspects in the land-rights bribery case.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:05 WIB
Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten and His Partner Expect a Child Through Surrogacy
Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten and his partner, Nicolás Keenan, say they are expecting a child through surrogacy, with the baby due in 2027. They thanked the egg donor and surrogate, noting that the arrangement is non-commercial and that both women are acquaintances of the couple.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:05 WIB
Transport Minister Orders Swift Response to KMP Batumandi Fire
Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi has ordered a rapid, co-ordinated response after passenger ferry KMP Batumandi caught fire in the Merak approach channel, with all passengers and crew evacuated safely. The cause is being investigated by the National Transportation Safety Committee and police, while the ministry says the findings will inform safety improvements and efforts to prevent similar incidents.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:05 WIB
France Extends Curfews in Several Cities Following Demonstrations
Authorities in Paris, Lyon and Marseille have extended or introduced curfews after violence during demonstrations at the weekend, with Toulouse set to impose restrictions later this week. The measures come after around 550,000 people took part in 110 demonstrations across France, in which about 400 people were arrested; a Ligue 2 match has also been postponed amid plans for further protests.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:04 WIB
DSN MUI Calls for Formation of Danantara Syariah: Latest Progress
The National Sharia Council of the Indonesian Ulema Council (DSN MUI) says discussions are under way to establish Danantara Syariah as a holding company for Sharia-compliant businesses under state investment agency Danantara. The proposal still needs to be finalised and approved, potentially through a presidential decree, with DSN MUI hoping it could be implemented next year.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:04 WIB
On Forest and Land Fires, Minister Pigai Says Environmental Damage Is Caused by Human Activity
Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai says environmental damage, including forest and land fires, results from human actions and stresses the need to respect nature and protect ecosystems. He called for greater public awareness of the link between human rights and the environment, noting that people ultimately bear the consequences when nature is neglected.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:03 WIB
Minister targets Rp150tn in foreign-exchange savings through health SEZs
Indonesia aims to save Rp150 trillion in foreign exchange by encouraging patients to seek treatment in domestic health special economic zones, instead of travelling overseas. About two million Indonesians go abroad for medical care each year, contributing to estimated outflows of Rp200 trillion; the government is supporting health SEZs through licensing reforms, knowledge transfer and new regulations.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:02 WIB
Gianyar Police Hold Community Dialogue Under National Police Chief’s Quick Wins Programme
Gianyar Police held a dialogue with residents as part of the National Police Chief’s Quick Wins programme, inviting local people to share concerns about public security and order. The discussion also highlighted responsible social media use and community cooperation to prevent drug trafficking, with police pledging to improve responsive, people-centred services.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:02 WIB
Women’s and Children’s Ministry backs 10-year prison sentence sought for Little Aresha daycare head
The Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection Ministry has welcomed prosecutors’ demand for a 10-year prison term for the head of Little Aresha daycare in Yogyakarta, alongside an Rp800 million fine and restitution for 83 child victims. The ministry says the case must deliver justice, protect children’s rights and deter similar abuses, and supports legal measures to secure restitution payments.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:01 WIB
Advan Admits X1 Neo Box Design Does Not Match the Phone Sold
Advan Indonesia has acknowledged that an illustration on the back of the Advan X1 Neo’s packaging shows a punch-hole camera, while the phone sold uses a waterdrop notch. The company apologised for any confusion and says the packaging artwork has been corrected for future box production; the phone is priced at Rp1.799 million.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:00 WIB
Government Says 5,800 Hectares of Fish Ponds Affected by Sumatra Disasters Have Recovered
The Fisheries Ministry says about 5,800 hectares of fish ponds and aquaculture ponds damaged by floods and landslides in Aceh, North Sumatra and West Sumatra have resumed operations. Recovery is being phased in, with a 2026 budget of Rp371.8 billion and a target to restore 15,446 hectares by year-end; rehabilitation of ponds, fishing facilities and ports will continue through 2028.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:00 WIB
Bekasi City Government clears overhead cables along Jalan Raya Pondok Gede
Bekasi City Government is removing disorderly overhead cables along Jalan Raya Pondok Gede as part of a broader, phased plan to move utility networks underground through ducting. Mayor Tri Adhianto Tjahyono said the work is intended to improve the city’s appearance, safety and comfort, and will require cooperation from telecommunications providers and other stakeholders.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:00 WIB
Video: Bank Aladin Syariah Partners with Three Islamic Banks to Strengthen Liquidity
Bank Aladin Syariah is strengthening liquidity management through an interbank Islamic fund management certificate (SIPA) transaction partnership with BSI, OCBC Syariah and Maybank Syariah. The collaboration is intended to broaden fund-management options in rupiah and US dollars, amid a positive assessment by the Financial Services Authority (OJK) of the Islamic finance industry’s resilience and sustainability.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:00 WIB
WCCE 2026 Provides a Platform for Creative Businesses to Explore Partnerships and Investment
Indonesia’s Ministry of Creative Economy is using the World Conference on Creative Economy (WCCE) 2026 to connect local creative businesses with international partners, investors and financial institutions from 65 countries. Business-matching sessions and a Creative Village in Jakarta are intended to open new markets and spur collaborations, although investment and commercial deals will depend on follow-up after the forum.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:00 WIB
Customs Seize Hundreds of Thousands of Illegal Cigarettes in Land Patrol in Malang Regency
Malang Customs seized 217,600 untaxed cigarettes after stopping a bus during a routine patrol in Singosari and Lawang. The cigarettes were valued at Rp323.77 million, with potential lost state revenue estimated at Rp162.71 million; the agency says it will continue enforcement along transport and distribution routes.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:59 WIB
The Battle of Narratives in the 2026 US Midterm Campaign
The article examines how unverified claims, AI-generated political adverts, the Iran war and debate over Israel are shaping the 2026 US midterm campaign. It argues that campaign spending and online reach can influence which issues dominate, but do not necessarily persuade voters, amid declining confidence in political information and election integrity.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:59 WIB
BI Raises Deposit Facility Rate to 5%
Bank Indonesia kept its benchmark BI Rate at 5.75% but raised the Deposit Facility rate to 5%, while leaving the Lending Facility rate at 6.50%. Governor Destry Damayanti said the move is intended to support rupiah stability amid external pressures; most financial institutions surveyed had expected a 25-basis-point increase in the benchmark rate instead.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:58 WIB
Pramono urges Jakarta to become an events hub to boost the economy
Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo says major concerts and events have generated significant economic activity, with some contributing up to Rp250 billion in revenue. The city is improving infrastructure and transport links to support future events, including a running festival and a Kanye West concert, which are expected to draw visitors and fill hotels.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:57 WIB
Nety: Environmental Approval Process Can Be Monitored Through Amdalnet
The Environment Ministry is promoting digital processing of environmental approvals through Amdalnet, while stressing that faster decisions must comply with statutory timelines and preserve environmental and community safeguards. Only 16 of 200 monitored districts and cities in Kalimantan, Sulawesi, Maluku and Papua have registered DPMPTSP administrators, and the ministry is urging more local governments to activate the system to improve transparency and prevent approval delays from hindering investment.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:57 WIB
Police Say Bharada Andika Admitted to Shooting Bharatu Valdo
Bharada Andika Ramadani, a police officer accused of fatally shooting his colleague Bharatu Laurentius Valdo Fernandez, has reportedly admitted to the act after surrendering. Investigators are continuing to examine the motive, possible bullying and whether anyone else was involved; Andika has been named a suspect and detained.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:57 WIB
PP No. 28/2025 Provides Certainty in the Licensing Process
Indonesia’s Government Regulation No. 28/2025 replaces the 2021 rules on risk-based business licensing, setting service time standards and clarifying the stages for environmental and other basic approvals. The government says the changes are intended to simplify applications, curb repeated document revisions and give businesses greater certainty.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:56 WIB
Lamongan Resident Raises Israeli Flags at Home, Causing Concern
A resident of Made village in Lamongan, East Java, reportedly displayed handmade Israeli flags and painted symbols associated with the Illuminati on his house. Village officials and a local military officer removed the flags and cleaned the graffiti after the display attracted public attention; officials said the move was intended to restore calm.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:56 WIB
Thirty-Two Protesters Detained at DIY Regional Council Released
Police say all 32 people detained after unrest outside the Yogyakarta Regional Legislative Council (DPRD DIY) were released and returned home early on Wednesday. The force said the detentions were a discretionary measure intended to protect protesters and prevent further clashes; the previous night’s protest saw stone and firecracker throwing, with minor injuries reported among protesters and officers.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:55 WIB
Prosecutors to Name Suspect in Kotaraja Village Funds Corruption Case Soon
Prosecutors in East Lombok say they will announce a suspect in an alleged corruption case involving Kotaraja village finances once the final calculation of state losses is ready. Investigators have questioned 43 witnesses and are seeking expert testimony; the alleged misuse may have included spending on online gambling.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:55 WIB
Forestry Ministry Enlists Forest Farmer Groups to Fight Fires
The Forestry Ministry is working with community groups, indigenous communities and volunteers to strengthen patrols, early reporting and firefighting, with 14,040 fire-prevention personnel active across 34 provinces. Its programme aims to establish 500 sustainable community fire-prevention groups by 2026; the ministry has also sanctioned 32 companies and reports legal proceedings against 125 entities over fire-related obligations.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:55 WIB
Indonesia’s ‘People’s Car’ LCGC Is Losing Appeal: What’s Behind the Shift?
Indonesia’s automotive industry association says the rise of electric vehicles is putting pressure on sales of low-cost green cars (LCGC) and conventional vehicles. Gaikindo is considering hybrid and plug-in hybrid technology as ways to keep first-time cars affordable, while remaining optimistic about reaching its 2026 sales target of 850,000 vehicles.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:54 WIB
US$9.9 Billion in Foreign Capital Flows In as BI Confident Rupiah Can Stabilise
Bank Indonesia says foreign capital inflows reached US$9.9 billion from June to 20 October 2026, following incentives aimed at reducing hedging costs and deepening domestic money and foreign-exchange markets. Despite global pressures that weakened the rupiah by 0.61% against the US dollar from the end of September, BI expects the currency to remain stable, supported by attractive rupiah yields, controlled inflation and a positive economic outlook.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:54 WIB
KPK Reveals Contents of Letter to TNI Commander on BNPB Corruption Case
The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) says it has detailed to the TNI commander alleged military involvement, conflicts of interest and bribery in procurement linked to BNPB disaster-response funds. The case has led to five suspects, seizures worth Rp5.47 billion and coordination with the TNI Military Police Centre.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:53 WIB
GoTo’s Regional-Language AI: What Is Actually New?
GoTo has released a 27-billion-parameter language model adapted from Google’s Gemma3 and tailored to Indonesian and four regional languages. The article argues that the release is an extension of existing work, rather than a new AI architecture or Indonesia’s first regional-language AI, while highlighting the value of making the model available to developers and public institutions.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:53 WIB
Breaking News: BI Keeps Its Rate at 5.75%
Bank Indonesia held its benchmark rate at 5.75% at its 20–21 October 2026 Board of Governors Meeting, contrary to most analysts’ expectations of a 25-basis-point increase. The central bank had raised rates by a cumulative 100 basis points in May and June to support the rupiah and contain inflationary pressures.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:53 WIB
Banten Governor Urges Public to Await Official Information on KMP Batumandi Accident
Banten Governor Andra Soni has urged the public not to speculate about the cause of the KMP Batumandi fire at Merak Port, saying the investigation should be left to Indonesia’s National Transportation Safety Committee and other authorities. Sixteen passengers received medical treatment, while agencies coordinated response efforts and support for those affected.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:53 WIB
Culture Ministry seeks to preserve oral and written traditions
The Culture Ministry is promoting digital access to traditional Nusantara scripts and oral traditions, describing digitalisation as a practical way to safeguard cultural elements at risk of disappearing. At ICANN87 in Bali, Culture Minister Fadli Zon welcomed the launch of internationalised domain names using Balinese, Javanese and Pegon scripts, while calling for sustained documentation, research, education and cross-sector cooperation.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:52 WIB
BRIN traces Sampit space object to Chinese satellite-launch rocket
BRIN astrophysicist Thomas Djamaluddin said orbital tracking indicates that debris from China’s ZhuQue-2E rocket passed over Kalimantan before re-entering the atmosphere on 18 October, shortly before an object was found in Sampit. The timing and residents’ reports of a rumbling sound support the identification, but physical examination is still needed to confirm the recovered material’s origin.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:52 WIB
In This Economy, Jakarta Public Transport Use Surges
Jakarta recorded 368.45 million passenger trips on Transjakarta, MRT and LRT services in the third quarter of 2026, up 10.8% year on year. Governor Pramono Anung attributed the rise partly to improved transport connectivity, as more residents switch from private vehicles amid mounting living costs.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:52 WIB
Bahlil Speaks Out as Nusron Wahid Misses KPK Summons for Second Time
Golkar chairman Bahlil Lahadalia said the party respects the legal process after ATR/BPN Minister Nusron Wahid failed to attend two KPK summonses as a witness in an alleged bribery case involving PT Summarecon’s land-use rights. The anti-corruption agency says Nusron’s testimony is important because several suspects are described as his confidants, and it plans to reschedule his examination.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:51 WIB
Central Jakarta Municipality Holds Earthquake Preparedness Drill at Mayor’s Office
Central Jakarta Municipality, the regional disaster management agency and local health officials held an earthquake preparedness drill at the mayor’s office in Gambir. The exercise refreshed staff knowledge of emergency procedures and evacuation roles, with floor wardens responsible for relaying alerts and coordinating action on each floor.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:50 WIB
Ride-Hailing Drivers and Apps Must Sign Partnership Agreements: What They Must Include
Presidential Regulation No. 27 of 2026 requires digital platform operators and online motorcycle taxi drivers to formalise their relationship through a platform partnership agreement containing 14 specified provisions. These include service fees, operating costs, incentives, social security protection and access to transaction data, while further rules and amendment procedures will be set by the Ministry of MSMEs.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:49 WIB
PT SMI President Director Calls for Stronger Development Finance Institutions in Asia-Pacific
PT SMI President Director Reynaldi says Asia-Pacific’s infrastructure funding needs are too large for any one government or institution, and calls for stronger cooperation among development finance institutions (DFIs). He highlights PT SMI’s project-preparation and blended-finance work, while arguing that sound governance, transparency and accountability are essential for DFIs and regional associations to build trust and attract investment.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:49 WIB
Rubio: US-Russia-China Trilateral Summit Could Have a Positive Impact
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said a summit between the leaders of the United States, Russia and China could benefit global security, particularly through discussions on arms control. The proposal comes amid reports of a possible November meeting, although the Kremlin says no agenda has yet been agreed.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:48 WIB
Indonesia taps voice-over industry to drive creative economy growth
Indonesia’s Wonder Voice of Indonesia programme has generated more than Rp2.5 billion in economic value through graduates’ collaborations with over 300 brands, as the government promotes voice-over work as a creative-economy subsector. The 2026 programme, run with industry and education partners, aims to develop talent and expand jobs and professional networks for Indonesian voice actors.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:46 WIB
BI Expects Indonesia’s Economy to Grow by 4.9–5.7% This Year
Bank Indonesia forecasts Indonesia’s economy to expand by 4.9–5.7% in 2026, supported by government stimulus and improving expectations among economic actors. Governor Destry Damayanti said the outlook was positive despite a weaker global economy and heightened uncertainty, while noting the need to boost household consumption.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:46 WIB
Central Java Holds 1,724 Affordable Food Market Events, Generating Rp31 Billion in Sales
Central Java Province has held 1,724 Affordable Food Movement events across 35 regencies and municipalities as of October 2026, with sales reaching Rp31 billion. The programme offers locally tailored access to cheaper staple foods and is intended to support farmers and livestock businesses while helping contain inflation; provincial inflation was reported at 3.18%, below the national rate of 3.28%.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:46 WIB
BI Governor Warns of Gloomy Global Economic Outlook as Inflation Reaches 4.6%
Bank Indonesia Governor Destry Damayanti says global growth is expected to hover around 3%, while inflationary pressures reach 4.6%, amid heightened Middle East tensions and persistently high oil prices. She warns that tighter-for-longer US monetary policy, elevated Treasury yields and a strong dollar could constrain emerging-market investment, underscoring the need for coordinated fiscal and monetary responses to protect Indonesia’s stability.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:45 WIB
Weather modification prepared to ease water deficits at Java’s dams: Ministry
Indonesia’s Public Works Ministry is preparing weather modification operations to boost rainfall and shore up water reserves at dams affected by an El Niño-driven dry season. It is also identifying unfinished dam projects for the 2028 budget, as 36 per cent of Java’s dams and 62 of the island’s 119 districts and cities have faced drought-related water shortages.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:45 WIB
Buying Fuel in Jerricans Is Restricted: Here Are the Requirements
Pertamina Patra Niaga’s North Sumatra regional office says purchases of subsidised diesel and assigned Pertalite in jerricans are permitted only for eligible groups holding recommendation letters. The rules, set out in a 2023 BPH Migas regulation, are intended to ensure subsidised fuel reaches its designated users.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:44 WIB
Housing Ministry and Bappenas Refine Housing Roadmap
The Ministry of Housing and Settlements and Bappenas are refining the 2025–2029 housing roadmap, with focus on making housing programmes better coordinated and aligned with national targets. Officials highlighted the need for joint planning across government, lenders and developers, and identified regulation, financing, land availability and inter-agency coordination as key issues.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:43 WIB
UMY Professional Certification Body Tests 831 Candidates, Targets International Certification
Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta’s professional certification body assessed 831 candidates across 34 certification schemes in October 2026, as part of efforts to equip students with work-ready skills. It also plans to broaden partnerships with national and international certification bodies, giving students more options for recognised credentials.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:43 WIB
TNI Officer Arman Named Suspect over Online Gambling Den at Military Residence
Military police have named Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry) Arman a suspect and detained him over the rental of an official military residence in East Jakarta that was used as an online gambling base. Eleven civilians were previously detained at the site, where officers seized computers, mobile phones and identity cards; investigators are still examining whether the officer knew about the gambling operation.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:43 WIB
KPK Writes to Military Commander over Suspected TNI Involvement in BNPB Case
Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has written to TNI Commander General Agus Subiyanto, outlining alleged military involvement in corruption linked to disaster-response funds at the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB). The case concerns alleged conflicts of interest and bribery in procurement, including contracts worth about Rp148 billion allegedly connected to a suspect who is the brother of a former BNPB chief.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:42 WIB
Researcher: Updating JKN PBI Membership Requires Multiple Layers of Verification
A researcher at The Indonesian Institute says updates to membership in the National Health Insurance’s Contribution Assistance Recipient scheme need layered checks to improve targeting and prevent patients from losing care through administrative errors. She also calls for special safeguards for patients with chronic or catastrophic illnesses, clear rules on funding care for inactive members, and stronger public oversight of social policy.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:42 WIB
Lieutenant Colonel Arman Named Suspect After TNI Official Residence Allegedly Used as Online Gambling Headquarters
An Indonesian Army lieutenant colonel has been detained and named a suspect over the alleged unauthorised rental of an official residence in Cijantung, which investigators say was used to operate online gambling. The case began after a public tip-off led to the discovery of computers and other equipment at the property, with 11 civilians taken in for questioning.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:40 WIB
Industry Minister Sarmuji Plans Car That Can Travel 65km on One Litre of Fuel
Industry Minister M Sarmuji says range-extended electric vehicles (REEVs) can achieve fuel efficiency of up to 65km per litre and a range of 1,600km on a full charge. The Industry Ministry plans to seek fiscal and non-fiscal incentives for REEVs and hybrid vehicles, arguing they could reduce fuel use and emissions while supporting investment in Indonesia’s automotive industry.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:39 WIB
Super Tucano and F-16 Fighter Jets Fly Low over the Paspro Toll Road
The Indonesian Air Force carried out a rehearsal using a 3.5-kilometre stretch of the Pasuruan–Probolinggo toll road to assess its potential as an emergency military aircraft runway. Two Super Tucanos and two F-16s took part in low-level manoeuvres ahead of a scheduled landing test, highlighting the military’s efforts to assess road infrastructure for defence purposes.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:36 WIB
Global Lenders Take Note of Companies’ Human Rights Risks
Human rights violations can disrupt mining operations, damage cash flow and undermine a company’s ability to repay loans, making them a credit risk for global lenders. Merdeka Copper Gold says it applies UN guiding principles and conducts impact assessments, while stressing that human rights safeguards must extend across workers, contractors, communities and supply chains.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:34 WIB
Wapres’ Special Adviser Says Kamojang Geothermal Plant Does Not Use Residents’ Groundwater; Professor Explains the Science
Vice-President’s special adviser Tina Talisa said the Kamojang geothermal power plant does not draw on groundwater used by local households, after a site visit and briefing by Pertamina Geothermal Energy and ITB hydrogeologist Professor Lambok M. Hutasoit. Hutasoit also rejected a direct link between geothermal drilling and landslides, while the article ends before reporting his response to questions about water shortages.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:34 WIB
Jakarta’s Revenue Reaches Rp39.33 Trillion in Third Quarter of 2026
Jakarta’s own-source revenue reached Rp39.33 trillion by the end of the third quarter of 2026, equal to 68.20 per cent of its annual target and up 1.29 per cent year on year. Total regional revenue stood at Rp44.98 trillion, while transfers from the central government reached Rp5.64 trillion, or 50.57 per cent of the budgeted amount.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:34 WIB
Elon Musk Said to Have Restricted Starlink in Ukraine: Can a Billionaire Determine the Course of a War?
Reports say Elon Musk ordered restrictions on SpaceX satellite communications used by Ukrainian forces, disrupting drone operations, while officials in the US and Ukraine offer conflicting accounts of who made the decision. The dispute highlights the strategic influence private technology companies can exert over military operations and national security.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:33 WIB
iPhone Duo Has No Visible Crease, but the Screen Feels Soft in the Middle
Apple’s rumoured first foldable phone reportedly has no visible crease, but an early user says the display feels soft where it bends and may develop wrinkles under prolonged pressure. The report has raised questions about the screen’s long-term durability, although Apple has not confirmed whether it uses Corning’s variable-thickness glass technology.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:33 WIB
Latest Hint on 2027 Minimum Wage from Manpower Minister: Could It Rise by 9.5%?
Manpower Minister Yassierli says the 2027 provincial minimum wage increase has not yet been determined and will be discussed under the new labour-protection law through national and provincial wage councils. Labour groups have proposed a rise of 7.5% to 9.5%, using inflation and economic growth figures to support their calculation.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:32 WIB
Korea and Australia Work-Visa Scams on Social Media: Two Bali Fraudsters Swindle Rp313 Million
Bali police have arrested two suspects accused of using social media to defraud Indonesians seeking work visas or overseas jobs, causing total losses of Rp313 million. One allegedly promised to change workers’ South Korean visa status, while the other offered a bogus tattoo-artist job in Australia; both face charges carrying a maximum six-year prison term and a Rp1 billion fine.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:32 WIB
Environment Minister: Law Enforcement Must Be Accompanied by Environmental Restoration
Environment Minister Moh Jumhur Hidayat says environmental enforcement must deliver ecosystem restoration, not merely judicial penalties, with scientific evidence playing a vital role in court proceedings. He cited a government lawsuit filed in early 2026 against six companies over alleged damage to more than 2,500 hectares in North Sumatra, seeking around Rp4.8 trillion.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:32 WIB
JCI Falls 0.84% in First Session as Foreign Investors Sell Rp581.59 Billion
Indonesia’s Composite Stock Price Index (JCI) fell 0.84% to 5,234.36 by the end of the first trading session, while foreign investors recorded net sales of Rp581.59 billion. Major banks Mandiri and BRI were among the most heavily sold shares, although BCA led foreign net purchases.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:32 WIB
Indonesia and China Seek Broader Cooperation as Bilateral Trade Jumps from $8bn to $154bn
Indonesia-China bilateral trade has climbed from about $8 billion during former ambassador Sudrajat’s posting to $154 billion, while the countries look to deepen cooperation beyond commerce. Forum speakers highlighted opportunities in investment, digital and green development, disaster management, renewable energy, agriculture and advanced manufacturing, amid closer regional integration and shared engagement in the Global South.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:31 WIB
PDI-P Invites Young People to Party School, Says Becoming President or Vice-President Takes Time
PDI-P has invited young people to attend its party school, where they are taught about Pancasila and the Constitution. Party official Komarudin Watubun said the programme aims to pass on the political values of Sukarno and Megawati Soekarnoputri, stressing that public office—including the presidency—requires preparation and cannot be rushed.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:28 WIB
KPK Uncovers New Findings in BNPB Disaster-Funds Corruption Case; Tents and Inflatable Boats Suspected of Being Embezzled
Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is investigating suspected irregularities in BNPB procurement beyond communications equipment, including refugee tents, blankets, water pumps and inflatable boats. The probe follows an October 2026 sting operation in which five people were named suspects, with evidence worth Rp5.47 billion seized; investigators are also examining the role of BNPB chief Suharyanto.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:28 WIB
Bandung Doctor Accused of Abusing His Child, Who Saw Explicit Content on Father’s Phone
A 37-year-old doctor in Bandung has been arrested on suspicion of sexually abusing his three-and-a-half-year-old daughter. The case came to light after the child imitated sexual behaviour and complained of pain; police say the suspect is being questioned.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:28 WIB
Independent Waste Management Promoted Through Draft Regional Regulation
West Java’s DPRD is drafting a regional regulation to provide legal certainty and support for community-led, household waste management. The proposal aims to address barriers including limited funding and product licensing, while expanding initiatives such as converting organic waste into valuable maggot-based products.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:27 WIB
Yemen’s Central Bank Orders Freeze on 135 Houthi-Linked Accounts
Yemen’s central bank has directed banks and currency-exchange firms to freeze the accounts and assets of 135 individuals, entities and vessels listed as linked to the Houthi movement. The order also prohibits financial and commercial dealings with those listed, as Yemen’s internationally recognised government advances legislation to designate the group a terrorist organisation amid renewed tensions.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:27 WIB
MUI’s IsDF stresses the importance of partnerships to strengthen solidarity with Palestine
The Islamic Dakwah Fund of the Indonesian Ulema Council says partnerships and shared commitments are essential to sustaining humanitarian solidarity efforts for Palestine. At a forum in Jakarta, MUI leaders also called for women to have a stronger role in peacebuilding and decision-making, including a proposed minimum 30 per cent quota in global peace processes.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:26 WIB
Can France’s Socialist Camp Win Over Young Voters?
Raphaël Glucksmann has won the French Socialist Party’s presidential primary decisively, but faces a difficult path to the 2027 election amid weak polling and competition from Jean-Luc Mélenchon for left-wing support. His challenge is to attract younger and more moderate left-wing voters while drawing a clear distinction from the radical left on issues including Europe and Ukraine.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:26 WIB
Several Officials Reassigned at Dompu Police Headquarters
Dompu Police Chief AKBP Sodikin Fahrojin Nur has overseen a reshuffle of several posts at the Dompu Police headquarters in West Nusa Tenggara. He said the changes were intended to refresh the organisation, support career development and improve police performance and public services, while urging the officials to act with professionalism and integrity.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:25 WIB
ICDX: Gen Z and Millennials Dominate Digital Gold Trading
Indonesia Commodity & Derivatives Exchange (ICDX) says Gen Z and Millennials accounted for 68 per cent of 19.2 million digital physical-gold market users recorded through September 2026. The exchange sees the digitally oriented generations, many of whom have their own jobs and income, as a significant potential market for digital gold as a long-term investment.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:25 WIB
92 Cisarua Junior High School Pupils Taken to Hospital over Suspected Free Nutritious Meal Poisoning
Ninety-two pupils at a state junior high school in Cisarua, Bogor, were taken to hospital after reportedly falling ill following a Free Nutritious Meal (MBG). Authorities said evacuations and data collection were ongoing, and the cause had not yet been established as health officials treated the students.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:25 WIB
France on Edge as Military Deploys to Quell Mass Unrest
France will deploy military personnel alongside police for a large-scale security operation following deadly urban unrest and looting, with Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu acknowledging failures in the state’s response. The turmoil has unsettled markets and businesses, while further protests are planned in France and unrest is also reported in Italy and Albania.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:24 WIB
BBCA Extends Share Buyback Period to 23 October 2026: Here’s Why
Bank Central Asia (BCA) has extended its share buyback period to 23 October 2026, from the previously announced end date of 21 October. The bank says the buyback reflects confidence in its business fundamentals and is intended to help stabilise Indonesia’s capital market, while having no material impact on its financial performance or business activities.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:23 WIB
Axera’s ADAS Chip Enters European Market Through Leapmotor, Strengthening Global Expansion
Axera’s intelligent-driving chip is being used in a globally marketed Leapmotor electric hatchback, marking the Chinese semiconductor company’s entry into the European automotive market. The article highlights rapid growth in Axera’s chip deployments and market share in China, alongside ambitions to expand international partnerships and deliveries.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:23 WIB
Linyi Trade City launches international sourcing centre to boost foreign trade
Linyi Trade City in eastern China has opened an international sourcing centre bringing together 324 corporate tenants and a broad range of local products for overseas buyers. Its foreign trade services, e-commerce support and logistics facilities aim to streamline purchasing and cut cross-border transport costs by about 20 per cent, strengthening the city’s export ecosystem.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:22 WIB
Life Is Getting More Expensive, and It Is Getting Harder to Get By
Households in France are struggling to keep pace with rising living costs, despite working and using every possible way to economise. The strain has fuelled protests over wages, public services and inequality, while similar demonstrations and housing pressures across Europe point to a wider crisis of affordability and living standards.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:22 WIB
TII urges swift completion of evaluation framework for MBG programme
The Indonesian Institute (TII) has urged the government to finalise a framework for evaluating the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, measuring nutritional quality, changes in recipients’ nutritional status and healthy eating habits—not just distribution numbers. TII also called for transparent evaluation and public participation, while the National Nutrition Agency says it is tightening programme oversight and food-safety procedures.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:22 WIB
Pajero Driver Who Killed South Jakarta Junior High School Student Named as Suspect
Police have named and detained a 26-year-old Pajero driver in connection with a collision in Mampang Prapatan that killed a 14-year-old student. The driver tested negative for narcotics, while investigators continue to examine the circumstances of the crash and the suspect’s background.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:20 WIB
Why Prabowo Is Right to Crack Down on Tin Mining’s ‘Depraved’ Practices
Former finance minister Fuad Bawazier says President Prabowo Subianto’s crackdown on Indonesia’s tin-mining sector was urgently needed after years of illegal mining, smuggling and poor governance. The government says enforcement has helped PT Timah’s profit rise ninefold in the first half of 2026, while cutting off illicit supplies to overseas buyers.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:18 WIB
National Police Chief Investigates KMP Batumandi Fire, Says Deliberate Act Cannot Be Ruled Out
National Police Chief Suyudi Ario Seto said police are investigating the fire aboard the KMP Batumandi near Merak Port to establish whether it was caused by technical factors or deliberate action. All 460 passengers and crew were evacuated safely, although 11 people required further medical treatment.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:18 WIB
Rini Says Civil Servants’ Salaries Will Not Yet Be Routed Through Merah Putih Village Co-operatives
Administrative and Bureaucratic Reform Minister Rini Widyantini says the government has no current plan to change civil servants’ salary payments to the Merah Putih Village/Urban-Village Co-operatives. She says the existing system remains in place while she seeks further information from the Finance Minister, with the priority being convenient, transparent access to salaries; Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara has also said salaries will continue to be transferred directly to employees’ bank accounts.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:17 WIB
Motorcyclist in Serang Dies After Crashing into Lorry Parked on Roadside
A 25-year-old motorcyclist was killed after his motorcycle struck the rear of a coal-carrying lorry parked on the shoulder of the Serang–Tangerang road in the early hours of Wednesday. Police said the lorry driver had left the vehicle to perform dawn prayers, and both vehicles have been impounded as the investigation continues.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:17 WIB
UNS Alumni’s Petition Challenges High School Diploma Evidence Requirement for Presidential Candidates
An alumnus of Sebelas Maret University has asked the Constitutional Court to broaden the types of documents accepted as proof of educational qualifications for presidential and vice-presidential candidates, arguing that the current law excludes valid higher-education credentials. The Court has heard the initial petition and given the applicant 14 days to revise it, while noting that Parliament is also discussing amendments to the Election Law.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:17 WIB
Report: Israel Nearly Launched Major Attack on Iran on 10 October, Called Off After Trump’s Opposition
Israel reportedly prepared a multi-day operation against Iran, including strikes on civilian infrastructure and nuclear facilities, but abandoned the plan after US President Donald Trump objected. The report comes amid renewed US-Israeli discussions on Iran and speculation that a joint attack could still occur in the coming weeks.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:16 WIB
Bogor Customs Seize 240,000 Illegal Cigarettes after Stopping Minibus at Sentul Barat Toll Exit
Bogor Customs officers seized 240,000 cigarettes without excise stamps from a minibus stopped at the Sentul Barat toll exit. The goods were valued at Rp356.4 million, with potential lost state revenue of Rp179.04 million; the seizure followed an intelligence tip and patrols along the Jagorawi Toll Road.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:15 WIB
Pelindo Supports Mangrove Ecosystem Recovery in Demak to Protect Java’s Northern Coast
Pelindo has provided 2,500 mangrove seedlings and 900 HexBRIck units for a coastal protection initiative in Demak, Central Java, combining ecosystem restoration with protective infrastructure. The wider plan includes planting mangroves across as much as 202 hectares, alongside seawalls, to address coastal erosion, land subsidence and tidal flooding while safeguarding communities, ports and logistics networks.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:15 WIB
Indonesia’s Profitable ‘Miracle Insect’ Under Threat: Here’s Why
Smoke from forest and peatland fires may hinder the activity of the weevil that pollinates oil-palm flowers, potentially reducing fruit formation by as much as 20%. Because Indonesia’s palm-oil industry relies heavily on this insect, weaker pollination could cut farmers’ yields and disrupt global vegetable-oil supplies.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:13 WIB
Army Chief Urges Legal Officers to Adapt to AI and Master the New Criminal Code
Army Chief of Staff General Tandyon Budi Revita has urged graduates and Indonesian Army legal personnel to prepare for legal challenges posed by artificial intelligence and to master the 2023 Criminal Code. He also called for stronger ethics, legal analysis and institutional training as the Army’s legal corps responds to technological change and shifting geopolitical conditions.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:12 WIB
Indef: IEU-CEPA to Expand Markets for Indonesia’s Textile Industry and MSMEs
Indef economist Eko Listyanto says the Indonesia-EU Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (IEU-CEPA) could widen European export opportunities for Indonesian textile and textile-product (TPT) businesses, including micro, small and medium-sized enterprises. The government is seeking to complete signing and ratification so the pact can take effect in early 2027, with both sides aiming to sign it before the end of 2026.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:12 WIB
Peruri Digital Summit 2026 Discusses Strengthening National Digital Sovereignty
Perum Peruri’s Digital Summit 2026 brought together government, regulators, industry and academic stakeholders to discuss policies and innovation aimed at strengthening Indonesia’s digital sovereignty. The state-owned company highlighted its GovTech mandate and showcased digital security, e-identity and AI solutions, while the event also featured semiconductor, AI and post-quantum cryptography sessions and a national student chip-design competition.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:11 WIB
Governor Praises Fishermen for Helping Evacuate Passengers from KMP Batumandi
Banten Governor Andra Soni praised local residents and fishermen for helping evacuate passengers after a fire broke out on the KMP Batumandi as it was preparing to berth at Merak Port. Sixteen passengers received medical treatment, while the cause of the fire remains under investigation by the National Transportation Safety Committee and police.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:10 WIB
A Century Old, Dutch-Era Geothermal Well Is Still Active
The Kamojang-3 geothermal well in West Java, first drilled in 1926, is still emitting steam and stands as a landmark in Indonesia’s geothermal history. Kamojang now hosts five geothermal power units, while experts say long-term generation depends on protecting water-recharge areas and highlight geothermal energy’s reliability compared with solar power.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:10 WIB
Riau Police Uncover Misappropriation of 6,500 Litres of Subsidised Diesel; Two Suspects Charged
Riau Police have seized 6,500 litres of subsidised Bio Solar and detained two suspects accused of storing and reselling the fuel at a profit in Siak Regency. The suspects face up to six years in prison and a fine of up to Rp60 billion, as police vow to tighten oversight of subsidised fuel distribution.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:10 WIB
Police Chief Says Police-on-Police Shooting Case Is Being Handled by Internal Affairs
National Police Chief Suyudi Ario Seto says the shooting at the Air Police Directorate headquarters in Pondok Cabe is being investigated by the police’s Professional and Security Division (Propam). Metro Jaya Police say they are still examining the suspected shooter’s motive, while the suspect’s lawyer alleges the incident was triggered by bullying of the victim’s colleagues.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:10 WIB
Dry Ice Used to Disperse Haze from Fires Reaching Homes; Granules to Be Made Smaller
The National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) says it will change how dry ice is dispersed after residents reported granules falling on their homes during weather-modification operations to clear haze from forest and land fires. Officials say finer granules and stricter seeding procedures will help the material evaporate in the air, while operations continue in South Sumatra and Central Kalimantan alongside a wider firefighting response.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:09 WIB
To tackle forest and land fires, BRIN and Air Force prepare to reactivate artificial rain console
BRIN and the Indonesian Air Force are preparing to restore an artificial rain console for use in weather-modification operations to help tackle forest and land fires. The equipment will be inspected and then sent to Bandung for repairs; once certified operational, it is expected to support disaster-response efforts.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:09 WIB
Floods and Landslides Hit Sumatra Again as Recovery Task Force Races to Rebuild
The government is accelerating post-disaster rehabilitation and reconstruction across Sumatra, where widespread infrastructure damage and renewed floods and landslides are complicating recovery. Some unspent funds may be carried over to 2027 to allow planned rebuilding projects to proceed, while authorities prioritise public facilities, housing and economic infrastructure.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:08 WIB
SMU Executive MBA enters global top 50 in Financial Times ranking
Singapore Management University’s Executive MBA climbed nine places to 46th in the Financial Times’ 2026 global ranking, with standout gains in international course experience (9th) and career progress (42nd). The results highlight the programme’s focus on cross-border learning and executive advancement, as well as the growing career value of its alumni network.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:08 WIB
Electric Motor Maker ALVA Secures an Additional Rp358 Billion in Financing
Standard Chartered Indonesia has increased financing facilities for PT Electra Mobilitas Indonesia (EMI), the maker of ALVA electric motorbikes, to US$20 million, or about Rp358.2 billion. The funding will support operations, procurement of raw materials and components, and business development as Indonesia seeks to expand domestic electric-motorbike manufacturing and accelerate the low-carbon transition.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:08 WIB
IPB Takes International Students to Explore Wakatobi’s Marine Ecosystems
IPB University brought 35 Indonesian and international students to Wakatobi for a field programme exploring tropical marine ecology, coastal ecosystem health and marine governance. The biennial summer course, delivered with Victoria University of Wellington and international experts, is intended to strengthen global marine research and education links while giving participants practical experience in a remote island setting.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:08 WIB
Telkom’s Srikandi Brings Women’s Leadership Perspectives to BTW 2026
Telkom leaders and Indonesia’s Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs discussed how women’s leadership can support digital transformation and strengthen the country’s technological sovereignty at Bali Tech Week 2026. The event also showcased TelkomGroup’s infrastructure and digital solutions, including AI, cloud and cybersecurity capabilities, as part of efforts to bolster Indonesia’s digital ecosystem and global competitiveness.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:08 WIB
Dozens of Pocong-Like Bundles Containing Bones Found in Magelang — But They Were Not Human
More than 20 small bundles wrapped in burial shrouds were found at a site in Canguk, Magelang, alarming residents who feared they might contain human remains. Forensic examination confirmed the bones were animal remains, likely from cats or dogs, and police said they would bury them to ease public concern.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:08 WIB
AI Technology and Direct Sourcing Emerge as New Trends at October China Gift Fair
The 34th China (Shenzhen) International Gifts and Home Products Fair has opened, bringing together 4,500 exhibitors and 5,000 brands across nearly 300,000 square metres. The event highlights AI-powered gifts and direct-from-factory private-label sourcing, reflecting buyers’ demand for innovative products and more flexible supply chains ahead of the year-end shopping season.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:08 WIB
PGE Prepares Major Funding Strategy to Reach 1.8 GW by 2034 as Indonesia Seeks to Become World No. 1, Overtaking the US
Pertamina Geothermal Energy (PGE) plans to raise substantial funding to expand its installed geothermal capacity from 727 MW to 1 GW by 2028 and 1.8 GW by 2034. The strategy combines internal equity, IPO proceeds, government-backed low-interest overseas financing, green finance and a joint venture with PLN to manage the sector’s high exploration costs and risks.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:07 WIB
Civil Servants Take Shelter Under Desks in South Jakarta City Hall Earthquake Drill
Jakarta’s disaster management agency held a simultaneous earthquake preparedness drill at 112 schools and 10 government offices in South Jakarta. The exercise trained civil servants and residents in self-protection and evacuation procedures, with officials saying staff understood what to do when the siren sounded.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:06 WIB
No Plan to Pay Civil Servants Through Village Cooperatives, Says Minister
Administrative and Bureaucratic Reform Minister Rini Widyantini says the government has no current plan to route civil servants’ salaries through the Merah Putih Village/Urban Village Cooperatives. Her remarks contrast with Cooperatives Minister Ferry Juliantono’s earlier statement that the proposal had been submitted to the Finance Ministry, while officials say no formal decision has been made.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:05 WIB
Cost of Living Squeezes Families: Just 28% of Japanese Parents Want a Second Child
A Meiji Yasuda Life survey found that just 28.2% of Japanese parents with one young child want a second, down from 56.9% in 2020, with financial concerns cited as the main obstacle. The finding comes amid record-low births and rising child-rearing costs, highlighting the economic pressures that are compounding Japan’s demographic challenges.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:04 WIB
Strong Ammonia Smell Alarms Pekanbaru Residents as Environment Agency Investigates
Residents in Pekanbaru reported a pungent ammonia-like smell on Tuesday night, with the odour becoming more noticeable towards midnight. The city’s Environmental and Sanitation Agency has sent inspectors to investigate its source and says it will take further action if checks indicate environmental pollution.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:02 WIB
Pramono: Jakarta’s Poverty Rate Falls Below 4% for the First Time
Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung says the capital’s poverty rate fell to 3.96% in March 2026, from 4.03%, while open unemployment also declined to 5.79%. The provincial government is expanding job training through its Mobile Training Unit programme, working with about 214 companies to equip jobseekers with skills, including language training for those seeking work overseas.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:01 WIB
BNPB Corruption Case: KPK Chief Says Letter Sent to Military Commander
The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) says it has written to Indonesian Military Commander General Agus Subiyanto regarding its investigation into alleged misuse of the National Disaster Management Agency’s emergency funds. The letter was sent on 20 October 2026, following a KPK sting operation at BNPB and the naming of five suspects, including the brother of then BNPB chief Suharyanto.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:00 WIB
Latest Images of the Middle East War: Taiz Becomes a Battlefield
Houthi military media has released footage it says shows clashes with Saudi-backed Yemeni government forces near Taiz, a key front in the country’s renewed conflict. Reuters verified some locations in the video using buildings, tanks, topographic maps and satellite imagery, but could not independently confirm when the fighting occurred or identify every location shown.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:58 WIB
PDI-P Rebukes Jokowi over ‘Political Operation’ Claim on Gibran’s Diploma
PDI-P official Komarudin Watubun rejected former president Joko Widodo’s claim that questions about the diplomas of himself and Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming were part of a political operation. He said the issue should be treated as a matter of constitutional and legal accountability, and called for the relevant evidence to be addressed through the courts and parliamentary oversight.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:58 WIB
Active non-alignment amid a fragmented, multipolar world order
Indonesia is modernising its military through a multi-alignment strategy, pursuing major arms deals with the United States, France and China as global power structures become more fragmented. The article contrasts rising defence spending with civil unrest and economic discontent in several countries, framing both as signs of mounting uncertainty in the international order.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:55 WIB
Former Indonesian Finance Minister Proposes State Control of Mining, Not Conglomerates
Former finance minister Fuad Bawazier has called for the state to own Indonesia’s mining assets, arguing that this would curb alleged financial manipulation and keep mining revenues in the country. The article also outlines Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia’s affirmative policies to expand opportunities for regional businesses, cooperatives and small enterprises in mining and oil production.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:54 WIB
UK to Send Fighter Jets to Help Protect Saudi Arabia from Houthi Attacks
The UK says it will deploy Typhoon fighter jets, transport aircraft and military advisers to help defend Saudi Arabia against increasing Houthi missile and drone attacks. London says the deployment is defensive, while warning that further escalation in the Gulf could raise living costs, disrupt energy supplies and increase costs for British businesses.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:53 WIB
The Internet Is Quietly Bringing Major Change to Sumba’s Communities
Internet access and social media are helping Sumba Timur’s weavers and traders reach customers beyond tourists who visit in person, including overseas buyers. Supported by BAKTI Komdigi connectivity infrastructure, digital tools are also enabling community members to promote textiles and accept cashless payments.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:53 WIB
Three teenagers caught on CCTV stealing drain cover in East Jakarta
Three teenagers were recorded stealing an iron drain cover outside a mosque in Utan Kayu Utara, East Jakarta, after repeatedly checking the area before acting when it was quiet. Residents said the cover had been in place for around 20 years and was damaged, making it easier to remove; it was the first such theft in the area.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:52 WIB
PLN EPI and FLEXIH Inc explore biomass-based low-carbon hydrogen development
PLN Energi Primer Indonesia and US-based FLEXIH Inc have signed a non-disclosure agreement to assess cooperation on producing low-carbon hydrogen from biomass using plasma gasification technology. The evaluation will examine Indonesian biomass feedstocks, potential buyers and investment options, as part of efforts to diversify energy sources, add value to domestic resources and support decarbonisation.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:52 WIB
East Java Police Deploy Support Troops to Tackle Forest and Land Fires in Nine Areas
East Java Police have deployed operational support personnel for seven days to help tackle fires across nine areas, with the assignment running until 27 October 2026. The deployment will support suppression, prevention and potential law-enforcement action, alongside coordination with disaster agencies, the military and local governments.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:51 WIB
Peruri’s Transformation from Money Printer to Technology Company
Perum Peruri is expanding beyond printing currency and security documents to become a technology company focused on the security and authenticity of digital documents, systems and identities. Its GovTech mandate under Presidential Regulation No. 82 of 2023 positions it to help integrate government digitalisation initiatives, while preserving Peruri’s core role in safeguarding public trust.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:51 WIB
Officer Who Shot Fellow Police Officer in Pondok Cabe Faces Premeditated Murder Charge
Bharada Andika Ramadani has been named a suspect after allegedly fatally shooting Bharatu Laurentius Baldo Fernandez Lawai at the Polairud headquarters in Pondok Cabe, South Tangerang. Police are investigating the alleged premeditation, possible bullying and the firearm used, while a separate Propam inquiry is examining potential breaches of police ethics.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:50 WIB
Family Calls for Bharatu Valdo’s Death to Be Investigated, Hopes Prabowo Will Intervene
The family of Bharatu Laurentius Valdo Fernandez, who was fatally shot at a police facility in South Tangerang, has urged President Prabowo Subianto to ensure a thorough investigation and the harshest appropriate punishment. His parents are also calling for transparency about the motive and chronology, while relatives remember him as a devoted son and the family’s main breadwinner.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:50 WIB
Industry Minister Wants Hybrid Car Incentives Approved Quickly — Here’s Why
Industry Minister M Sarmuji is pressing for incentives for hybrid, plug-in hybrid and range-extended electric vehicles (REEVs) to be introduced by the end of 2026, or early next year at the latest. The proposal would combine fiscal and non-fiscal support, taking advantage of rising fuel prices to encourage more energy-efficient vehicles and develop Indonesia’s battery-based automotive industry.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:49 WIB
Bahrain and France co-operate on civil nuclear development
Bahrain and France have signed a memorandum of understanding to develop the skills and expertise needed for Bahrain’s civilian nuclear programme, including through specialised training. The agreement was signed during French President Emmanuel Macron’s Gulf tour, which also focused on strategic co-operation in energy, defence and technology amid heightened regional tensions.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:47 WIB
Bandung Doctor Arrested over Alleged Sexual Abuse of His Child, Who Contracted Gonorrhoea
West Java police say they have arrested a doctor suspected of sexually abusing his three-year-old child, who subsequently contracted gonorrhoea. Investigators are examining the suspect and awaiting medical examination results before publicly detailing the case.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:45 WIB
Pramono says public transport use in Jakarta rose by 10.8%
Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo said 368.4 million passengers used TransJakarta, MRT and LRT services by September 2026, an increase of 10.8%. He attributed the growth to improved transport connectivity and said ridership on the Kelapa Gading–Manggarai LRT could rise further once three more stations are completed.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:45 WIB
Reconstructing Indonesia’s Electoral System: Simplifying the Complex
Indonesia’s simultaneous elections combine five ballots in a single day, creating major logistical and cognitive challenges across a vast archipelago. The article highlights invalid legislative ballots, severe exhaustion among polling staff—with more than 180 deaths reported in 2024—and technical problems with the Sirekap application, making the case for reforming the electoral system.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:45 WIB
Tourists Flock to Indonesia, and Not Just to Bali
Indonesia welcomed 15.39 million international visitor arrivals in 2025, while domestic trips reached a record 1.2 billion; growth continued through August 2026. Visitor activity is spreading beyond Bali and major cities to destinations including Manado-Likupang, Lake Toba and Lombok-Gili Tramena, bringing economic opportunities to local communities and businesses, most of which are SMEs.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:44 WIB
KPK Has Written to TNI Commander over BNPB Fund Corruption Case
The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) says it wrote to TNI Commander General Agus Subiyanto on 20 October 2026 as part of its investigation into alleged misuse of disaster-response funds managed by the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB). The case has led to five suspects being named, including the brother of then-BNPB chief Suharyanto, and the seizure of assets worth Rp5.47 billion.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:43 WIB
China and Vietnam Hold Workshop on Green Crop Protection Technologies in Hanoi
Chinese and Vietnamese representatives agreed to expand demonstrations of green pest and disease management technologies across the Lancang–Mekong region, with a focus on improving food security and addressing corn pests and diseases in Vietnam. The workshop featured field demonstrations, technical exchanges and donations of biopesticides, monitoring tools and application equipment, strengthening bilateral cooperation on plant protection.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:43 WIB
Geo Dipa Energi Secures Rp1.3 Trillion in State Capital Injection and Accelerates Two Geothermal Projects
State-owned geothermal developer Geo Dipa Energi received Rp1.3 trillion in state capital injection from the national budget in early 2019 to support the development of the Dieng Unit 2 and Patuha Unit 2 geothermal power plants. Patuha Unit 2, with planned capacity of 55 MW, is targeted to begin commercial operations in the first quarter of 2027, followed by Dieng Unit 2 in the first quarter of 2028.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:43 WIB
China says APEC finance ministers agree to boost policy coordination
APEC finance ministers have agreed to strengthen macroeconomic policy communication and coordination to address external risks, while expanding practical financial-sector cooperation. Their discussions also produced a statement promoting secure, accessible digital infrastructure and stronger public-private collaboration to support regional trade, connectivity and economic opportunities.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:42 WIB
White Island Eruption in New Zealand Prompts Higher Alert Level
New Zealand has raised its volcanic alert level as ash emissions continue at White Island, also known as Whakaari. Authorities report no threat to the mainland beyond a possible sulphur smell and light ash fall, and say the activity could persist for weeks while the risk of significant impact remains very low.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:42 WIB
Two Goats Found Mauled to Death in Saptosari, Suspected Wild Animal Attack
Two goats belonging to residents of Kanigoro, Saptosari, Gunungkidul, were found dead with their bodies torn apart. Police suspect they were attacked by a wild animal, but have not yet identified the species.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:42 WIB
Airlangga Targets Rp150 Trillion in Foreign-Exchange Savings Through Health Special Economic Zones
Coordinating Economic Affairs Minister Airlangga Hartarto is seeking to retain up to Rp150 trillion in foreign exchange by expanding health-focused special economic zones (KEKs), encouraging Indonesians to seek treatment at home. Around two million Indonesians travel abroad for medical care each year, mainly to Singapore and Malaysia, with estimated spending of Rp200 trillion.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:41 WIB
Public Works Minister Enlists Residents in Cash-for-Work Scheme to Tackle Padang Flood Damage
The Public Works Ministry has used a cash-for-work scheme to clear mud and debris from flood-hit neighbourhoods and public facilities in Padang, involving affected residents and providing them with income. Clean-up work at seven affected mosques and prayer rooms has been completed, while efforts in two residential areas are nearing completion; similar work has also been completed at affected sites in Pesisir Selatan.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:40 WIB
Pupuk Kaltim Turns Coal Waste into Added Value
Pupuk Kaltim is using fly ash and bottom ash (FABA) from its coal-fired boilers as an input in NPK fertiliser production, reducing waste and cutting its use of clay. The company says it has reused 66,180 tonnes of FABA to date and is targeting 75,000 tonnes over five years, while also applying the material in construction, soil stabilisation and coral-reef restoration.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:40 WIB
US Faces Risk of Crisis and France-Style Unrest
Economic observers warn that mounting US debt, deficits and interest costs could heighten public frustration, drawing comparisons with France’s fiscal pressures, although the US has significant advantages. The dollar’s reserve-currency status and demand for Treasuries provide support, but slower growth and political deadlock over the debt ceiling could still trigger serious financial-market turmoil.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:39 WIB
Genon Passes Validation for Nike Footwear Production and Wins New AI Automation Contracts in Indonesia
South Korean AI start-up Genon says its Vision AI system has passed Nike’s final production validation, achieving defect-detection rates of 99.7% and 99.2% on two footwear models. It has also won further Vision AI and Physical AI contracts in Indonesia, where its new subsidiary is targeting profitability in its first year as the company expands into footwear and other industries.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:39 WIB
Two Teenagers Attacked by Group of Peers in Mataram, Possibly Mistaken for Someone Else
Two 19-year-olds were attacked by a group of teenagers in Mataram in what police believe may have been a case of mistaken identity. Police are questioning witnesses and suspected perpetrators, and have urged the public not to retaliate.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:37 WIB
Genon Clears Nike Footwear Production Validation and Wins New AI Automation Contracts in Indonesia
Genon says its Vision AI system for Nike footwear passed mass-production validation, achieving defect-detection rates of 99.7% and 99.2% across two styles, and it is preparing for a commercial rollout from 2027. The company has also secured additional Vision AI and Physical AI automation contracts in Indonesia and is targeting first-year profitability for its newly established Indonesian subsidiary, while exploring applications in shipbuilding and offshore engineering.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:37 WIB
Ship Accidents Keep Recurring as Commission V Scrutinises BKI’s Role in Vessel-Worthiness Certification
Following the fire aboard the passenger ferry KMP Batumandi at Merak Port, a Commission V deputy chair has questioned the Indonesian Classification Bureau’s role in certifying vessels’ technical seaworthiness. He called for stronger oversight of BKI, citing a succession of maritime accidents in 2026 and concerns that a single national classification body could allow conflicts of interest.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:36 WIB
Baznas Encourages Students to Build Global Networks from an Early Age through IZE Fest
Baznas is urging students to develop international connections, broaden their knowledge and seek new experiences as they prepare to become future agents of change. IZE Fest 2026, organised by the Baznas Cendekia School, combines zakat education with technology-focused innovation and competitions for around 1,500 students from Indonesia and abroad.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:35 WIB
Death toll from Israeli aggression in Gaza rises to 74,480, with 175,539 injured
The reported death toll from Israel’s war in Gaza has risen to 74,480, with 175,539 people injured since 7 October 2023. Medical sources said hospitals recorded five deaths and 22 injuries in the past 24 hours, while thousands remain missing or inaccessible beneath rubble and on roads.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:35 WIB
Islamic Financial Institutions Must Move Up a Gear: More Than Just Selling Halal Products
Islamic financial institutions (LKS) should measure progress not only through asset growth, digitalisation and profits, but also by ensuring Sharia principles are consistently upheld in day-to-day operations. The article argues for stronger operational systems, vendor networks and risk controls to prevent misuse of financing and make profit-sharing contracts more viable, supported by the National Committee for Islamic Economy and Finance’s “Beyond Murabahah” initiative.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:33 WIB
MP urges BMKG to provide consistent disaster education in Cilacap
A member of Indonesia’s House of Representatives has urged the Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) to deliver regular disaster-preparedness education in Cilacap, an area exposed to earthquakes and tsunamis. She also called for wider outreach on weather and climate information to support local fishermen and farmers.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:31 WIB
AITO Looks to Europe as It Builds a Global Automotive Ecosystem
AITO says it has won the trust of more than 1.2 million customers in China and ranked among the world’s top 10 luxury automotive brands by brand value in Brand Finance’s 2026 ranking. The Chinese marque says it is looking to expand its global presence and work with value-chain partners to grow an automotive ecosystem and bring intelligent luxury mobility to more customers.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:31 WIB
UI Professor: Indonesia’s Foreign Policy Depends on Leadership Style
A University of Indonesia professor says the direction of the country’s foreign policy is shaped not only by national interests and global developments but also by the leadership style of decision-makers. A guest lecture at Hasanuddin University also examined post-Reformasi priorities and South-South Cooperation, highlighting its potential to strengthen Indonesia’s autonomy as well as challenges including funding, governance and competing national interests.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:31 WIB
Central Java Holds 1,724 Affordable Food Market Events to Keep Staple Prices Down
Central Java held 1,724 Affordable Food Movement (GPM) events across all 35 regencies and municipalities in 2026, generating Rp31.03 billion in sales. The programme offers subsidised staples and supports local farmers and livestock breeders, while provincial officials say it is also intended to curb inflation amid supply and distribution pressures.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:30 WIB
Wife of Former BNPB Chief’s Brother Won Several Contracts Linked to KPK Sting Operation
The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is investigating BNPB procurement contracts allegedly steered to companies affiliated with the wife of suspect Bima Setiawan, brother of former agency chief Suharyanto. The inquiry also covers alleged private-sector bribery and potential conflicts of interest, following a sting operation in which five people were named suspects and assets worth Rp5.47 billion were seized.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:30 WIB
Era Graharealty Officially Exits the Indonesia Stock Exchange
Era Graharealty has received shareholder approval to go private and delist its shares from the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX). The plan includes a voluntary tender offer by APAC Investment 2 Pte. Ltd. to buy shares held by public shareholders, alongside amendments to the company’s articles of association and a change to its name.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:29 WIB
KITE Duty Exemption Facility Boosts Indonesian Batik Exports to Japan and Australia
Indonesia’s Customs and Excise agency has granted PT Perusahaan Dagang dan Industri Batik Keris a KITE duty-exemption facility, waiving import duties on raw materials used to produce export goods. The scheme is expected to improve production-cost efficiency and support exports to Japan and Australia, while the company projects growth in employment from 1,705 to 5,783 workers and investment from Rp539.94 billion to Rp686.76 billion by 2030.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:29 WIB
Muhammadiyah Calls for Forest Governance Reforms and Action Against Those Responsible for Land and Forest Fires
Muhammadiyah has expressed deep concern over recurring forest and land fires in Sumatra and Kalimantan, citing severe environmental damage and harm to public health, education and livelihoods. It says the fires demand a comprehensive review of policy and enforcement, and urges authorities to prioritise public safety and protect vulnerable groups.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:28 WIB
Abandoned Baby Found by Roadside in Bogor Village, Shocking Residents
A newborn baby girl was found in a bag beside a road in Curug village, Bogor, after passers-by heard her crying. She was reported to be healthy and is receiving care from a midwife, while police investigate who left her there and seek to identify her parents.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:27 WIB
Military Officer Named Suspect Over Army Residence Rented for Online Gambling Operations
Military Police in Jakarta have named an Army lieutenant colonel a suspect for renting out an official residence in Cijantung, East Jakarta, allegedly for online gambling operations. Authorities found 32 computers and detained 11 civilians at the property, while the Army says it is investigating everyone involved and will not allow its facilities to be used for illegal activity.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:25 WIB
Chinese Cars Continue to ‘Conquer’ the World as Chery Exports Top 1.5 Million Units
Chery Group reported global sales of 2.21 million vehicles in the first nine months of 2026, up 9.9% year on year, while exports surged 65.6% to 1.55 million units—already exceeding its full-year 2025 total. The company is expanding rapidly in Europe and other markets, alongside growth in new energy vehicles, robotics and technology development.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:23 WIB
Don Ritto Says 74kg of Gold Is Unrelated to Febrie Case; Prosecutor Calls It a Personal Assumption
Prosecutors have urged the Central Jakarta Corruption Court to reject Don Ritto’s objection and proceed with his money-laundering trial. They say his claims about the origins of 74kg of gold, foreign currency and legal-fee payments are personal assumptions and arguments on the merits, while the indictment alleges he acted jointly with former Jampidsus Febrie Adriansyah and others in laundering more than Rp346 billion and US$440,990.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:22 WIB
Saudi Arabia Destroys Five Drones Targeting Eastern Province and Medina
Saudi-led coalition air defences intercepted and destroyed five drones aimed at the Eastern Province and Medina, according to coalition spokesperson Major General Turki Al-Maliki. The statement did not identify those behind the attacks, which come amid escalating Houthi strikes on Saudi territory and renewed fighting in Yemen.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:21 WIB
BRI expands global investors’ access to Indonesian business opportunities
BRI is partnering with Indonesia’s Foreign Ministry to connect international investors with domestic business opportunities, offering banking support through its Foreign Direct Investment Services and integrated One BRI Solution. The initiative aims to turn cross-border partnerships into investment and business activity that benefits Indonesian companies and SMEs, strengthens supply chains and supports inclusive economic growth.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:21 WIB
Pedestrian in Koja Killed by Electricity Pole Struck by Trailer Truck
A pedestrian was killed in North Jakarta after a trailer truck collided with a minibus, then hit an electricity pole that fell on him. Police said the crash may have been caused by faulty brakes; the truck driver and vehicles involved were identified, and the incident also brought down a pole belonging to the Public Works Agency’s Bina Marga department.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:20 WIB
Analyst: Profit-taking after rebound prompts JCI correction
The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) fell 0.84% in Wednesday’s first-session trading after a sharp rebound the previous day, as investors took profits amid uncertainty over MSCI-related sentiment and foreign fund flows. Market analyst Elandry Pratama expects continued volatility, with 5,405 a key level for confirming an initial trend change; until then, gains should be viewed as a technical rebound.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:18 WIB
The Progress of Mining Downstreaming in the First Two Years of the Prabowo-Gibran Government
The article reviews Indonesia’s mining downstreaming push, including 19 projects initiated by Danantara and government measures intended to give small businesses and local cooperatives a greater role. It highlights the potential gains in investment, jobs and industrial value, alongside challenges involving infrastructure, energy, financing, technology, regulation and business certainty.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:18 WIB
One Hundred Graduation Ceremonies, 1,100 Journeys
Universitas Amikom Yogyakarta is marking its 100th graduation ceremony, with 1,100 graduates celebrating the completion of their studies. The author reflects on graduation as both the culmination of sustained effort and the beginning of graduates’ contributions to society, while emphasising the continuing relationship between alumni and their university.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:18 WIB
Police Arrest Doctor Accused of Abusing His Child, Who Contracted Gonorrhoea, in Bandung
West Java police have arrested a doctor suspected of sexually abusing his three-year-old child, who reportedly contracted gonorrhoea. Investigators are questioning the suspect and awaiting medical examination results before publicly presenting the case; the child’s lawyer says the abuse came to light after the child imitated adult behaviour and later experienced pain while urinating.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:17 WIB
Ferry Catches Fire in Merak; House Commission V Says: ‘It Keeps Happening Again and Again’
House Commission V chairman Lasarus criticised the Transport Ministry after the KMP Batumandi caught fire while approaching Merak Port, saying repeated ferry accidents point to weak oversight and a failure to improve procedures. All passengers were rescued, and police are investigating the incident.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:17 WIB
Sompo Syariah Officially Begins Operating as a Sharia General Insurer
Sompo Insurance Indonesia says its dedicated Sharia subsidiary, PT Sompo Insurance Sharia, has officially begun operating in line with Financial Services Authority (OJK) requirements. The company says the new entity will strengthen governance and enable more focused, innovative Sharia-compliant protection, while supporting the growth of Indonesia’s Islamic finance sector.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:17 WIB
Malaysia PM Anwar warns against Israeli navigation app Waze over data security concerns
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has urged citizens to stop using Waze, citing concerns that the Israeli-developed app could expose users’ data to monitoring, and recommended the Malaysian Highway Authority’s Tuju app instead. The warning followed a National Cyber Security Committee review of cyber threats, which also addressed MyDigital ID security and emerging risks from autonomous AI as the government seeks to bolster digital sovereignty.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:16 WIB
Transport Minister Asks Police and KNKT to Investigate Cause of KMP Batumandi Fire
Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi has asked the police and the National Transportation Safety Committee (KNKT) to investigate the cause of a fire aboard the KMP Batumandi near Merak Port in Banten. All passengers and crew were evacuated safely, while investigators will examine technical and non-technical factors, including the possibility of deliberate action.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:16 WIB
Burnt Monkey Discovered in Batam and Bintan Blackout Case
Police have named five suspects—four PLN Batam personnel and a contractor—in connection with a widespread power outage on Batam and Bintan. Investigators say a wild monkey may have entered a substation and caused a short circuit, while shortcomings in protection systems and perimeter fencing are also under investigation.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:16 WIB
Preservation body: Hudoq tradition is a living heritage that safeguards nature
A cultural preservation official says the Hudoq tradition in Mahakam Ulu is both a living cultural heritage and a practice closely tied to food security and care for the environment. The annual festival provides a platform for the tradition, but its continuity depends on knowledge being passed from older to younger generations.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:15 WIB
Pramono Sends Team to Investigate Viral Claims of Pickpocketing Ring at TransJakarta’s Kampung Melayu Stop
Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has ordered his staff to investigate viral social media claims that a group of pickpockets is targeting TransJakarta passengers at Kampung Melayu stop. The post warned commuters to guard valuables closely amid crowded conditions, particularly those carrying rucksacks.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:15 WIB
Video: Indonesia’s Definition of Corruption Changed – Chinese Rocket Debris Falls on Palm Oil Plantation
President Prabowo Subianto has approved a National Economic Council proposal to revise the definition of corruption, shifting its emphasis from state losses to bribery, according to council chair Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan. Separately, metal debris the size of a car was found at a palm oil plantation in Central Kalimantan and is suspected to be part of a Chinese space rocket, though its identity has not been independently confirmed.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:15 WIB
Elon Musk Restricts Internet in Ukraine, Grounding Drones
Elon Musk reportedly ordered Starlink connection speeds in Ukraine to be limited, disrupting systems used to control Ukrainian drones. The move reportedly followed criticism of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy by Musk and US President Donald Trump, and has prompted questions over who controls the satellite network used on the battlefield.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:12 WIB
BMKG strengthens tsunami education and evacuation drills in Cilacap
Indonesia’s meteorology agency is expanding public education and evacuation exercises in Cilacap after modelling indicated a potential tsunami of up to 15 metres, with waves estimated to reach the coast 43–45 minutes after an earthquake. BMKG stressed that the scenario is not a prediction, but said preparedness requires mapped evacuation routes, safe shelters, regular drills and protection for vital infrastructure.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:10 WIB
BRI Pledges to Boost Global Investment and Expand Access for Businesses
Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) says it is working with Indonesia’s Foreign Ministry to connect international investors with domestic business opportunities and help Indonesian companies and MSMEs access global markets. Its foreign direct investment services, integrated banking solutions and a newly launched investment guidebook are intended to support investors while linking them with local firms and supply chains.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:10 WIB
Creative Economy Minister: WCCE 2026 to Strengthen Collaboration for an Inclusive Creative Economy
Indonesia has opened the 2026 World Conference on Creative Economy (WCCE), focusing on collaboration to ensure creative-sector participants have equal access to opportunities and economic benefits. Minister Teuku Riefky Harsya said the conference will promote collective continuity across countries and generations, while addressing technology, sustainability and fairer intellectual property returns.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:10 WIB
Customs Uncovers New Smuggling Method: Liquid Methamphetamine Soaked into Books and Certificates
Indonesia’s Directorate General of Customs and Excise now X-rays all consignments entered under the Consignment Note system, including documents, after discovering narcotics concealed in books and certificates. Officials say the cases underline the need for layered screening, since drugs can be absorbed into paper and may not be apparent from the declared shipment type.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:09 WIB
Pajero Driver Who Hit Junior High School Student in South Jakarta Named Suspect and Detained
Police have named and detained the 26-year-old driver of a Mitsubishi Pajero after a collision in Mampang Prapatan, South Jakarta, killed a 14-year-old student. The driver tested negative for narcotics, while investigators continue examining the crash and the suspect’s background.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:08 WIB
Beyond HTs, KPK Says BNPB Tent and Inflatable Boat Procurement Was Corrupted
Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) says suspected corruption in disaster-response procurement at the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) may extend beyond handheld radios to tents, blankets, water pumps and inflatable boats. The investigation follows arrests of 15 people and the naming of five suspects, with investigators examining procurement documents and assets worth Rp5.47 billion seized as evidence.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:07 WIB
Boy Walks 2km to Report Father for Allegedly Abusing Mother in Pontianak
A boy walked about two kilometres to a police station in Pontianak to report that his father had allegedly confined and assaulted his mother. Police found the woman with a split lip and in a state of shock; she said she and her daughter had been locked in a room, while the suspect fled when officers sought to question him.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:07 WIB
KPK Reveals BNPB Case Involving Purchases of Refugee Tents and Wildfire-Fighting Equipment
The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) says its investigation into alleged misuse of disaster-response funds at Indonesia’s National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) covers purchases including tents, blankets, water pumps, boats and equipment for tackling forest and land fires. Five people have been named as suspects, with investigators examining procurement records and seized electronic evidence after searches at eight locations; alleged benefits include Rp4.8 billion, 325 grammes of gold and foreign currency.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:06 WIB
National Police Chief Calls Firefighter Whose Voice Was Lost Fighting Forest Fires to Praise His Efforts
National Police Chief Suyudi Ario Seto praised Iptu M Agus Setiawan for continuing to help fight forest and land fires despite contracting an acute respiratory infection and losing his voice. He urged Agus and his colleagues to prioritise their health and seek medical care promptly if their condition worsens.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:05 WIB
Indonesia Could Earn Rp1,682 Trillion from Coal Production of 700 Million Tonnes
Indonesia’s coal output could rise to 700 million tonnes in 2026 after the Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry approved a limited relaxation of production targets, up from the 600 million tonnes initially set in company work plans. Based on CNBC Indonesia’s estimated average coal price, sales could total Rp1,682 trillion, while projected non-tax state revenue from minerals and coal is Rp133.93 trillion.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:03 WIB
JCI Falls 0.84% by the End of the First Trading Session
Indonesia’s Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) fell 0.84% to 5,234.36 by midday after opening higher and then facing heavy selling. Investors are watching Bank Indonesia’s interest-rate decision, developments following MSCI’s announcement and the prospect of share buy-backs by major conglomerates and Danantara.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:03 WIB
Fire Breaks Out at Ice Cream Warehouse in Tangerang
A major fire struck an ice cream production warehouse in Jatiuwung, Tangerang, on Tuesday night, with the blaze reportedly starting after an electrical short circuit. Fire crews deployed 60 personnel and 16 fire engines, taking more than six hours to bring the fire under control.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:02 WIB
Jokowi Says Diploma Row Is a Political Operation; PDI-P Urges Him Not to Put on a Show
PDI-P official Komarudin Watubun rejected former president Joko Widodo’s claim that questions over his and Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s diplomas are part of a political operation. He said the issue could be settled by proving the documents’ authenticity in court, while Jokowi maintained that political actors were exploiting the controversy.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:01 WIB
BRIN: Rocket Debris Found on a Kalimantan Palm Oil Plantation Was Chinese
BRIN astrophysics researcher Thomas Djamaluddin says debris found in a palm oil plantation in Sampit, Central Kalimantan, was from China’s ZhuQue-2E rocket. The object was identified as space debris that re-entered Earth’s atmosphere before falling in Indonesia.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:00 WIB
Former Indonesian Finance Minister Proposes Replacing Mining Permits with Oil and Gas-Style Contracts
Former finance minister Fuad Bawazier says Indonesia should replace mining permits with a state-control contract system modelled on oil and gas to curb transfer pricing, export under-invoicing and illegal mining. The Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry has considered adapting a production-sharing scheme, but the proposal remains under review and awaits a Cabinet decision.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 12:00 WIB
Free Nutritious Meals Programme Reaches 57 Million Beneficiaries Across 38 Provinces
Indonesia’s Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme has reached more than 57 million schoolchildren, pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers and young children across all 38 provinces, supported by 27,486 nutrition service units. Spending reached Rp153.2 trillion by the third quarter of 2026, or 66.9 per cent of the effective budget ceiling; the programme’s next challenge is to sustain its expansion while ensuring food safety, nutritional quality, reliable distribution and transparent budget management.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:59 WIB
Pakistani General’s Visit Ends in Deadlock as Tehran Says Not a Speck of Uranium Will Leave Iran
Iran’s senior security official Mohsen Rezaei told Pakistani army chief Asim Munir that enriched uranium would not be allowed to leave the country and that talks with the United States would resume only after Washington met Tehran’s demands. The visit, part of Pakistan’s efforts to revive peace negotiations, highlighted Iran’s deep distrust of the US and its insistence on concessions including an end to the maritime blockade and sanctions on Iranian oil exports.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:59 WIB
Police to Investigate Cause of KMP Batumandi Fire in Merak
Indonesian police will investigate whether technical or non-technical factors caused a fire aboard the KMP Batumandi as it approached Merak port, including whether it was deliberate. The National Transportation Safety Committee has also been asked to examine the incident, after rescue teams were deployed to help move passengers to a safe area.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:57 WIB
Jakarta Police Say No Greenpeace Activists Were Arrested at HI Roundabout
Jakarta Metro Police said six Greenpeace Indonesia activists who unfurled a climate protest banner at the Selamat Datang Monument were not arrested, but taken for medical attention after feeling weak and dizzy. They were accompanied by the Indonesian Legal Aid Foundation and returned home that evening; their protest called on the government to address the climate crisis.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:55 WIB
Business Leaders Warn of Import Surge Threatening Indonesian Jobs
Kadin Indonesia says excessive imports of goods that can already be produced domestically could undermine local manufacturers, deter investment and put jobs at risk, particularly in textiles, footwear, electronics and consumer goods. The Trade Ministry says imports must be managed according to national needs and that product standards and trade rules should be enforced consistently, while local producers are encouraged to improve quality and market access.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:55 WIB
Volleyball Match Turns Deadly in Bima, One Young Man Hacked to Death
A 24-year-old man was killed and another young man injured in a knife attack after a confrontation near a volleyball match in Bima, West Nusa Tenggara. Police arrested three suspects within 12 hours and say they are investigating each person’s role in the incident.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:54 WIB
A look inside the iPhone Duo unboxing ahead of its first sale
An unboxing video of Apple’s forthcoming iPhone Duo shows the foldable handset arriving flat, with packaging similar to other iPhones. Availability at launch remains uncertain: online orders may not arrive until 25 January 2027, while Apple’s physical stores may have no walk-in stock on 23 October.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:54 WIB
Nusantara Regas Delivers 33 LNG Cargoes by the Third Quarter of 2026
Nusantara Regas reported receiving 96.7 million MMBTU of LNG and delivering 96.5 million MMBTU of gas, equivalent to 33 cargoes, through September 2026. The company said its 96 per cent plant availability and strong safety record helped support gas supplies to power plants and industrial customers in Jakarta and western Java, as it highlighted its governance and sustainability credentials.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:53 WIB
Khofifah stresses safety of personnel tackling forest and land fires
East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa has urged caution and stronger safety measures for firefighters and volunteers responding to fires at Raden Soerjo Grand Forest Park, where 92 hotspots remain. The fires have also damaged water-distribution pipes serving three villages, and the provincial government has sought helicopter support for water-bombing operations.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:52 WIB
South Sulawesi Provincial Government Calls for Salujambu Bridge to Open to Improve Access
South Sulawesi’s provincial government has asked for the completed Salujambu Bridge to be opened without waiting for an official inauguration, provided final technical inspections confirm it is safe. The 70-metre bridge links Luwu and North Luwu regencies and is intended to improve residents’ transport access and daily mobility.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:50 WIB
UMY Begins Construction of Muhammadiyah Sapen Universal School, Set to Open in 2027
Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta has begun building SMP Muhammadiyah Sapen Universal School in Sleman, with classes expected to start in July 2027. The school will offer a Cambridge-supported international curriculum, backed by an investment of around Rp50 billion, and aims to combine global standards with Indonesian character and identity.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:50 WIB
Track Gold Price Fluctuations with HF Gold Puzzle
Antam gold prices reflect both international spot prices and the rupiah exchange rate, with domestic premiums and seasonal demand also shaping the final figure. HF Gold Puzzle says its chart-tracking feature helps customers assess market trends, while the article also outlines factors influencing gold and the rules governing its cash-on-delivery transactions.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:50 WIB
Education Ministry Welcomes Garuda TV’s Juara Kelas Indonesia
The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has welcomed Garuda TV’s Juara Kelas Indonesia, a national competition giving primary-school pupils a platform to demonstrate their abilities. Deputy Minister Fajar Riza Ul Haq said the programme supports educational quality by combining learning, competition and recreation, while Garuda TV says it aims to build pupils’ academic, critical-thinking and teamwork skills.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:49 WIB
Kindergarten Director in China Sentenced to Life in Prison After 247 Pupils Suffer Lead Poisoning
A court in Gansu sentenced six people over the use of toxic additives in food served at a Tianshui kindergarten, where 247 of 251 children tested had abnormal blood lead levels. The kindergarten’s person in charge received a life sentence, while the school’s executive head was jailed for 15 years; the case has also prompted scrutiny of local officials and medical support for affected children.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:45 WIB
Investment Grows 7.59% in Q3 2026 as Domestic Investment Weakens
Indonesia recorded investment of Rp528.7 trillion in the third quarter of 2026, up 7.59% year on year, although domestic investment (PMDN) fell 7.48%. The government is promoting mineral downstreaming as a driver of higher-value domestic industry; the sector reportedly accounts for around 30% of national investment, worth US$61 billion.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:45 WIB
Special Economic Zone Investment Reaches Rp46 Trillion Through Q3 2026, Down 9%
Investment in Indonesia’s special economic zones (SEZs) totalled Rp46 trillion in January–September 2026, down 9.09% year on year and equivalent to 67% of the annual target. Foreign investment accounted for Rp33 trillion, while the zones added 53,190 workers, exceeding the employment target; cumulative investment since the zones were established stands at Rp382.1 trillion.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:44 WIB
BRIN: Object that fell on a palm oil plantation in Central Kalimantan was a Chinese rocket
BRIN astrophysicist Thomas Djamaluddin says debris found at a palm oil plantation near Sampit was from China’s ZhuQue-2E rocket, based on orbital data showing its final passage over the area before re-entering Earth’s atmosphere. He said the timing matched residents’ reports of a loud rumble, while stressing that physical examination is still needed to confirm the debris’ identity.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:43 WIB
Russia to Consider US Proposals but Rules Out Political Concessions
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said Moscow would assess proposals from US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner on their economic and financial merits, while rejecting any political concessions or expectations of political support. The comments came as the Kremlin welcomed the envoys’ discussions with Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Witkoff would convey proposals aimed at advancing peace, including a possible trilateral leaders’ meeting.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:42 WIB
Polri and Transport Ministry strengthen service coordination ahead of Christmas and New Year period
Indonesia’s National Police (Polri) and the Ministry of Transportation are stepping up coordination ahead of the 2026 Christmas and 2027 New Year holiday period, with preparations also looking towards Eid al-Fitr 2027. The discussions covered public transport services, traffic management, accident response across land, sea and air transport, and cooperation in education.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:41 WIB
President Prabowo to Chair Plenary Cabinet Meeting This Afternoon
President Prabowo Subianto is scheduled to chair a plenary Cabinet meeting at the State Palace on 21 October 2026, with strategic issues and an assessment of government programmes on the agenda. The meeting coincides with the second anniversary of the formation of the Red and White Cabinet and is expected to include ministers, deputy ministers and senior advisers.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:37 WIB
Police Chief and Transport Minister Discuss Security Preparations for Christmas, New Year and Eid
National Police Chief Suyudi Ario Seto and Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi discussed closer coordination on transport services and security ahead of the Christmas and New Year period and Eid al-Fitr. Their talks also covered road, maritime and aviation safety issues, as well as possible cooperation on education programmes.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:37 WIB
Rupiah Expected to Weaken as Markets Await BI Board of Governors Meeting Decision
The rupiah was unchanged at Rp17,992 per US dollar at Wednesday’s open, while analysts expect it to weaken as markets await the Bank Indonesia Board of Governors’ decision. Market expectations are split between an unchanged policy rate and a 25-basis-point increase, with global inflation and US Treasury yields also in focus amid elevated oil prices.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:35 WIB
Debt: Is Indonesia Moving Closer to the US Again and Leaving China Behind?
Indonesia’s external debt rose to US$459.27 billion in August 2026, with government and central bank borrowing increasing while private-sector debt declined. Debt owed to US creditors grew as borrowing from China edged down, although yuan-denominated debt hit a record equivalent of US$19.95 billion, reflecting a distinction between creditor location and currency denomination.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:32 WIB
PT SMI Expands DFI Role to Accelerate Infrastructure Development
PT Sarana Multi Infrastruktur (PT SMI) says the cumulative value of projects it has supported reached Rp1,312 trillion by August 2026, reflecting its expanding role as a development finance institution. Beyond financing businesses and local governments, it supports project preparation and Islamic finance, including a waste-to-fuel facility in Surabaya, as it seeks to broaden sustainable infrastructure investment.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:32 WIB
To Prevent Digital Fraud, Jalin Educates 100 MSME Operators
Jalin has launched the ‘Ibu Cek Dulu’ initiative to help 100 women involved in micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in East Jakarta recognise digital payment scams. The programme responds to a gap between Indonesia’s financial inclusion and literacy rates, underscoring the need to pair wider access to financial services with stronger understanding and confidence in using them safely.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:31 WIB
Accurate Talks in Yogyakarta Examines Strategies for Preparing Businesses for Their Next Opportunity
At a Yogyakarta forum, business owners and experts stressed that sustainable growth depends on sound financial records, cash-flow awareness, adaptable revenue models and deliberate branding—not simply rising sales. Speakers also urged businesses to validate their operations before expanding or accepting investment, while attendees highlighted practical lessons in administration and customer service.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:31 WIB
Understanding the Personality Traits of Ambiverts, Omniverts and Otroverts
Psychiatrists and psychologists describe three social personality tendencies that go beyond the familiar introvert–extrovert divide. Ambiverts balance socialising with time alone, omniverts move more frequently between the extremes, while otroverts may be sociable without feeling a need to belong to a group.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:30 WIB
395,000 East Java Residents Affected by Drought; Deputy Speaker Urges Mitigation
Around 395,438 people across 24 districts and cities in East Java were affected by drought by early October 2026, while at least 150 forest and land fires burned an estimated 9,540 hectares. Deputy provincial assembly speaker Deni Wicaksono urged the governor to strengthen prevention, infrastructure and inter-agency coordination, and to direct more provincial budget spending towards reducing disaster risks.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:30 WIB
Reporting to Prabowo, Luhut Says Subsidies Will No Longer Go to Products
Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan told President Prabowo that a digital social-protection portal, Perlinsos, is scheduled to launch on 10 November 2026 and will direct assistance to eligible recipients as cash transfers. The government plans to move away from product-based subsidies, while DEN officials say current fuel-price measures are intended to protect purchasing power and that longer-term reforms should make energy subsidies better targeted and fiscally sustainable.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:30 WIB
Agoda and Emerging Travel Group enter strategic partnership
Agoda will integrate Emerging Travel Group’s global hotel inventory through the RateHawk API, adding millions of accommodation options across Europe, the Americas and the Middle East. The partnership is also intended to expand ETG’s reach in Asia-Pacific, where the company says bookings grew by an average of 30% in 2026.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:30 WIB
Ride-Hailing Drivers Can Now Work Across Multiple Apps: Here Are the Rules
Presidential Regulation No. 27 of 2026 allows ride-hailing drivers to partner with one or more app companies, while requiring them to observe safety, security, service-quality and transport-technical standards. The regulation also sets out requirements for platform-driver partnerships and assigns ministries responsibilities for overseeing partnerships and setting transport and delivery tariffs.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:29 WIB
Prosecutors Ask Judges to Reject Former Jampidsus Febrie Adriansyah’s Objection
Prosecutors have urged the Central Jakarta Corruption Court to reject Febrie Adriansyah’s objection to the indictment and proceed with the trial, arguing that his challenges concern the merits of the case. Febrie, charged with extortion and money laundering, has asked for the indictment to be annulled and for his release from detention.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:28 WIB
Sports Minister Encourages Saptoyogo After He Wins Silver at Asian Para Games
Sports Minister Erick Thohir visited para-athlete Saptoyogo Purnomo after he won silver in the men’s 100m T37 final at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Para Games. Saptoyogo was urged to move on and focus ahead of his next final, the men’s 400m T37; Indonesia had won five gold medals by the third day of the Games.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:28 WIB
PLN EPI Begins Supplying Bio-CNG to Belawan Combined-Cycle Power Plant in Medan
PLN Energi Primer Indonesia has begun contractually supplying bio-compressed natural gas (bio-CNG) to the Belawan power plant in North Sumatra, initially as a fuel blend with a contribution expected to be below 1–2 megawatts. The initiative tests the use of renewable biomethane made from organic waste and supports PLN EPI’s target of raising the bio-CNG mix to 10 per cent by 2030.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:28 WIB
Army Chief Hopes STHM Graduates Will Be Integrity-Driven Legal Ambassadors
Army Chief of Staff General Tandyo Budi Revita has urged graduates of the Military Law College (STHM) to serve as professional, adaptable and ethical legal representatives wherever they are posted. He highlighted the implications of Indonesia’s new Criminal Code, emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, cybercrime and autonomous weapons, and shifting geopolitical and human rights challenges for military law.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:27 WIB
Church in New Capital Planned as Indonesia’s First Basilica
Jakarta Archbishop Cardinal Ignatius Suharyo visited the St Francis Xavier Church in Nusantara, which is designed to become Indonesia’s first basilica and to embody cultural inculturation and interfaith harmony. The article also details ongoing IKN development, including public-private housing projects and private investments worth trillions of rupiah, alongside economic and infrastructure priorities.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:26 WIB
Metro Jakarta Police Release Six Greenpeace Activists Who Hung Banner at HI
Metro Jakarta Police say six Greenpeace Indonesia activists were taken in for medical attention after climbing the Welcome Monument at Jakarta’s Hotel Indonesia Roundabout, and deny that they were arrested. Greenpeace says the activists were released after nearly 12 hours of questioning and says its peaceful protest sought to highlight the effects of the climate crisis and the rising cost of living.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:25 WIB
Airlangga Reveals Indonesia’s Special Economic Zones Lag Far Behind Vietnam and Malaysia in Size
Coordinating Economic Affairs Minister Airlangga Hartarto said Indonesia’s special economic zones (SEZs) cover 24,000 hectares, compared with 1.8–2 million hectares in Vietnam and Malaysia, despite Indonesia’s larger land area. The country’s 25 SEZs have attracted Rp382.1 trillion in cumulative investment and employed more than 302,000 people; Airlangga also pointed to healthcare SEZs as a way to retain spending by Indonesians seeking treatment abroad.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:24 WIB
Two Men in Deli Serdang Forced by Residents to Eat Raw Papaya Leaves
A video showing two men eating papaya leaves they allegedly stole from a resident’s garden in Deli Serdang has gone viral. Sunggal Police say they are investigating the incident and have spoken with the garden’s owner.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:24 WIB
DayOne Upsizes Malaysia Financing to US$7.2 Billion as Billings Surpass 1GW and Bookings Reach 2.3GW
DayOne has increased its senior secured syndicated financing for its Johor data-centre platform to approximately US$7.2 billion, arranged by a seven-lender consortium. The company says it now has 1GW of capacity generating revenue under long-term contracts, 2.3GW in customer bookings and 1.1GW in reservations, reflecting expanding demand and investment in digital infrastructure.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:24 WIB
Tourism Ministry and BPOLBF Promote Flores’ Mainland Attractions Through Familiarisation Trip
The Ministry of Tourism and the Labuan Bajo Flores Tourism Authority are using a familiarisation trip and business meetings to market mainland Flores to domestic travellers. The initiative aims to turn local experiences into market-ready itineraries, encourage longer stays and spread tourism’s economic benefits across more destinations.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:23 WIB
Labuan Bajo Travel Agency Owner Accused of Defrauding Tourists Faces Four Years in Prison
Police have named Kristoforus Aman, owner of Labuan Bajo Top, a suspect in the alleged fraud of three Italian tourists involving a tour package worth Rp79.8 million. He faces up to four years in prison and has also faced allegations involving tourists from Malaysia, Singapore and China, after being released in an earlier case through restorative justice.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:23 WIB
Lutfi Tells Malaysia to Look in the Mirror over Forest Fires and Investigate Companies
Former Trade Minister Muhammad Lutfi says haze from forest and land fires should not be used to justify calls to exclude Indonesia from ASEAN, pointing instead to the role of Malaysian-linked palm oil companies operating in Indonesia. He argues that Indonesia’s push to process more palm oil domestically has disrupted cheap crude palm oil supplies to overseas refineries, and urges scrutiny of specific companies and their supply chains rather than blaming an entire country.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:21 WIB
Police Chief Says Pondok Cabe Police Shooting Case Is Being Handled by Internal Affairs
National Police Chief Suyudi Ario Seto says the fatal shooting of Bharatu Laurentius Valdo Fernandes at the Pondok Cabe police base is under investigation by the force’s internal affairs division, Propam. Separately, South Jakarta police have named Bharada Andika Rahmadani as a suspect and detained him while investigating the shooting’s motive and other circumstances.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:19 WIB
Forestry Ministry Involves Fire Watch Groups and Forest Farmer Groups in Tackling Forest and Land Fires
The Forestry Ministry is working with community fire-watch groups, forest farmer groups, Indigenous communities and volunteers to detect and tackle fires, with 14,040 community personnel operating across 34 provinces. It is also expanding community groups and strengthening prevention, while 32 companies have received administrative sanctions and criminal proceedings are under way against 125 legal entities or individuals over fires.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:18 WIB
How Dry Ice Works to Combat Haze from Forest and Land Fires
Indonesia’s government agencies are using dry-ice seeding in weather-modification operations to address atmospheric conditions that trap smoke from forest and land fires over Sumatra and Kalimantan. The approach aims to break up inversion layers and improve visibility and PM2.5 levels, helping aerial firefighting and civilian aviation, although results depend on atmospheric and fire conditions.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:18 WIB
Motorcycle Gang Leader Accused of Orchestrating Man’s Killing After Being Overtaken During Convoy
An 18-year-old was killed and his 21-year-old companion injured in an attack by a motorcycle gang in Polewali Mandar, West Sulawesi, after they reportedly overtook the gang’s convoy. Police have named three suspects, including the leader of the CMP Brutal gang, and allege two members kicked the victims’ motorcycle, causing it to crash.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:18 WIB
Presidential Advisory Council Member Jonan Offers Recommendations on Indonesia-Malaysia-Singapore Forest Fires
Presidential Advisory Council member Ignasius Jonan has urged Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore to strengthen cooperation against forest and land fires that cause transboundary haze. He called for renewed use of the ASEAN haze agreement, preventive measures and coordinated enforcement that holds both companies and individuals accountable without countries shifting blame.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:18 WIB
Response to KMP Batumandi Fire Reported Complete, SAR Team Remains on Standby
A fire broke out aboard the KMP Batumandi while it was sailing from Bakauheni to Merak, prompting the evacuation of all 460 passengers and crew. Eleven people required further medical treatment, while authorities said the response was complete and SAR teams remained on standby as the cause of the fire was investigated.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:17 WIB
Protecting the Middle Class Before Shocks Become Setbacks
Indonesia’s middle-class population has continued to shrink, with the number falling to about 46.7 million in 2025, but leaving the statistical category does not necessarily mean falling into poverty. The article argues that policy should identify households experiencing setbacks and provide support early, recognising that resilience depends on factors such as dependants, debt, liquid savings and job security.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:17 WIB
Transport Ministry strengthens Nunbaun Sabu Port services through land grant
The Transport Ministry says a land grant from Kupang City Government will support the development of facilities and maritime connectivity at Nunbaun Sabu Port in East Nusa Tenggara. The handover formalises a grant process that has been under way since 2012 and reflects cooperation between central and regional governments to improve port services.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:16 WIB
Six Activists Released After Unfurling Banner at HI Roundabout; Greenpeace Promises Further Action
Police released six Greenpeace activists on Tuesday night after they unfurled a critical banner at the Welcome Monument in Jakarta’s HI Roundabout. Greenpeace says it will continue staging actions to voice public concerns, citing research showing that climate change is affecting Indonesians’ food costs, incomes and living expenses.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:15 WIB
Video: Houthi Attacks Escalate, Brent Crude Tops US$110 a Barrel
Escalating Houthi attacks and wider Middle East conflict fears drove global crude prices higher, with Brent reaching US$110 a barrel and WTI US$98.90. At 10.03am on Wednesday, Indonesia’s benchmark stock index had fallen 1.04% to 5,223, while the rupiah edged up 0.08% to Rp17,965 per US dollar; coal remained near US$150 per tonne despite a correction.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:14 WIB
Lieutenant Colonel Arman Named Suspect After Official Residence Allegedly Became Online Gambling Hub
Lieutenant Colonel Arman Jab, an intelligence officer with Gartap 1 Jakarta, has been named a suspect and detained over the alleged misuse of an official residence in East Jakarta as an online gambling operations base. Authorities say the investigation is ongoing; a search of the property previously resulted in 11 civilians being detained and computers, mobile phones and identity cards being seized.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:14 WIB
Pramono Plans Weather Modification on 22–23 October in Bid to Cool Jakarta
Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has ordered a weather-modification operation ahead of the Jakarta Running Festival and a Ye concert, hoping to bring cooler conditions and rain where possible. The operation is scheduled for 22–23 October and may start earlier, with efforts continuing through 25 October; the running festival is expected to attract about 37,000 participants from 48 countries.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:13 WIB
Cumulative Investment in Special Economic Zones Reaches Rp382.1 Trillion
Investment in Indonesia’s 25 special economic zones (SEZs) reached Rp382.1 trillion cumulatively from their establishment through September 2026, generating 302,262 jobs and involving 509 businesses. Investment during January–September 2026 totalled Rp46 trillion, or 67 per cent of the full-year target, with foreign investment accounting for Rp33 trillion.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:13 WIB
Mineral Downstreaming Accounts for 30% of National Investment
Mineral downstreaming accounts for about 30% of Indonesia’s total investment, worth US$61 billion, up 7.2%, Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani said at the Indonesia Sustainability Forum in Jakarta. The government aims to move beyond raw-mineral exports by building integrated domestic value chains, including batteries and electric vehicles, while MIND ID is developing supply chains for nickel, bauxite, aluminium and copper.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:12 WIB
DPR Member Says Legislation Has Advanced During Prabowo’s First Two Years
DPR Commission III member Soedeson Tandra says legislation passed during President Prabowo Subianto’s first two years in office marks fundamental progress, citing a new Criminal Procedure Code and laws on employment protection and domestic workers. He also praised the government’s law-enforcement record and said he would support Prabowo’s agenda, while calling for improvements where implementation falls short.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:12 WIB
Baznas Opens Oxygen Health Centre for Residents Affected by Haze
Indonesia’s National Alms Agency (Baznas) has opened an Oxygen Health Centre in Palangka Raya to provide oxygen and a smoke-free space for people affected by forest and land fires. The centre is part of a wider response that has included firefighting at 12 sites, health and food assistance, clean-water distribution and support for responders across several provinces.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:09 WIB
Industry Minister Sarmuji to Meet Finance Minister to Seek Swift Hybrid Car Incentives
Industry Minister M Sarmuji says the government will push for fiscal and non-fiscal incentives for hybrid, plug-in hybrid and range-extended electric vehicles, citing rising fuel prices and the need to conserve energy while strengthening the domestic automotive industry. He plans to discuss the proposal with the Finance Ministry before the end of October, with a target to introduce support this year if possible.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:09 WIB
Pramono Hopes Kampung Melayu Boxing Ring Will Bring Residents Together
Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung says a boxing gym and sports facilities beneath the Kampung Melayu flyover are intended to give residents, particularly young people, a place to gather and strengthen community ties. The East Jakarta administration hopes the venue will also help curb brawls in an area where they have occurred frequently.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:06 WIB
Commenting on Violent Protests, Netanyahu Says France Is Facing an ‘Invasion by Islamic Extremists’
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claimed that violent protests in France were driven by Muslim extremists and accused French leaders of failing to confront them, without providing evidence. His remarks echoed far-right narratives about Islam and immigration, while US President Donald Trump also blamed immigration and warned that Paris would become a “Muslim city”.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:05 WIB
Antam Gold Prices Fall Again on 21 October 2026, with One Gram Now at Rp2.55 Million
Antam’s gold-bar price fell by Rp10,000 to Rp2,554,000 per gram on Wednesday, while its buyback price stood at Rp2,369,000 per gram. The article also outlines the price spread, applicable tax rules and prices for gold bars in various weights.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:05 WIB
Good news: Nataru 2026–2027 holiday flights exempt from VAT
The government will cover 100% of VAT on the base fare and fuel surcharge for eligible domestic economy-class flights during the 2026–2027 Christmas and New Year holiday period. The tax relief applies only when both ticket purchase and travel dates fall within specified windows, and excludes extras such as additional baggage and seat selection; airlines must also meet reporting requirements.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:05 WIB
BPJS Kesehatan Says Hospital Claim Payments Are Running Smoothly
BPJS Kesehatan has received Rp 20 trillion in additional government funding for hospital and other healthcare facility claims in 2026, with half disbursed in October and the remainder expected in November. The agency says payments comply with the 15-day deadline, while BPJS Watch stresses that claim disputes and hospital asset sales require case-by-case scrutiny and calls for sustainable financing reforms.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:05 WIB
Ailment Affecting Many Indonesians: Can Acid Reflux Cause Death?
Occasional acid reflux is generally harmless, but persistent reflux can develop into GERD and cause serious complications if left untreated. Although there are no reports of people dying in their sleep from choking on reflux, GERD can affect the airways; treatment and lifestyle changes can help manage the condition and reduce complications.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:03 WIB
Dharma Polimetal Executive Buys 10 Million Shares Worth Rp8 Billion
Dharma Polimetal commissioner Noel Aelyo Laras Kusuma Negara bought 10 million shares in the company for Rp8 billion. The transaction increased his stake from 1.79% to 2.00% and was recorded as an investment.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:03 WIB
Two Trucks Collide on Jagorawi Toll Road towards Bogor, Drivers Injured
A tanker truck collided with the rear of another truck on the Jagorawi Toll Road near Bogor, leaving the tanker’s driver with minor injuries. Police said the crash, which occurred during the morning commute, was suspected to have been caused by the driver falling asleep at the wheel.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:01 WIB
Expert: Setting the Number of Presidential Advisory Council Members Is Constitutionally Permissible
Constitutional law expert Fahri Bachmid says the President’s decision on the number of members of the Presidential Advisory Council (Wantimpres) falls within the President’s constitutional policy discretion, provided it complies with the law and supports effective government. His comments respond to a Constitutional Court challenge arguing that the absence of a numerical cap could lead to an oversized body and place a burden on the state budget; he says constitutionality must be assessed separately from institutional efficiency and budget accountability.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 11:00 WIB
Hudoq Pekayang Festival Celebrates Harmony Between People, Nature and Tradition
The 2026 Hudoq Pekayang Festival in Long Pahangai, Mahakam Ulu, brought together about 260 dancers from 13 Dayak Bahau villages. Through its distinctive masked dance, the festival celebrates ancestral heritage and highlights the importance of sustaining cultural identity and connections with nature for younger generations.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:58 WIB
Participatory AIK Builds Students’ Character Through Worship and Social Action
Universitas ‘Aisyiyah (UNISA) Yogyakarta uses its participatory Al-Islam and Kemuhammadiyahan (AIK) programme to foster discipline, honesty and social awareness through religious practice and community projects. The programme includes non-Muslim students, while around 2,500 first-semester students attended a gathering featuring religious study and a communal iftar.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:57 WIB
DJI Osmo Pocket 4P Pearl White Launches Globally, Bringing a Trendy Look to Cinematic Creators
DJI has launched a Pearl White edition of its dual-lens Osmo Pocket 4P globally, retaining its 1-inch sensor, 17-stop dynamic range, 10-bit HDR recording and D-Log 2 colour profile. The compact camera also offers 4K slow motion, subject tracking and expanded accessories, positioning the new finish as a style-focused option without changing the core imaging features.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:57 WIB
Police Crowd-Control Truck Attacked with Stones and Molotov Cocktails in Bandung; 16 Officers Injured
Sixteen police officers were injured when a crowd attacked a police crowd-control truck at the Dago-Sulanjana junction in Bandung, with four suffering serious injuries. Police say the situation is now under control, although officers remain deployed to maintain public order.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:56 WIB
Sudanese Military Drones Hit Funeral Gathering and Market, Killing 300
Drone strikes attributed to Sudan’s military killed more than 300 people in attacks on a funeral gathering in West Kordofan and a fuel market in the disputed Abyei region. The United Nations condemned the attacks on civilians and critical infrastructure, while the Abyei strike has raised fears of heightened tensions between Sudan and South Sudan.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:55 WIB
USGS Warns of Possible New Eruption at Hawaii’s Kilauea Volcano
The US Geological Survey says another lava-fountaining episode at Kilauea could occur within days or weeks, following renewed summit swelling after the latest eruption ended. While ash from the latest phase rose to about 25,000 feet, the agency says there is currently no threat to residential areas or critical infrastructure.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:55 WIB
Gold Prices at Pegadaian Continue to Fall in Unison
Gold prices for Galeri24, Antam and UBS at Pegadaian all declined on Wednesday, with prices per gram falling by between Rp6,000 and Rp10,000 from the previous day. Prices may change at any time, and the products are available in different weight ranges.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:55 WIB
Hashim Djojohadikusumo Sells 1.42 Billion WIFI Shares, Raising Rp4.06 Trillion
Hashim Djojohadikusumo has sold 1.42 billion shares in Solusi Sinergi Digital, equivalent to 26.667% of its voting rights, for about Rp4.06 trillion. The transaction reduces his affiliated company’s stake to 27.756%, while Sinergi Graha Kapital becomes a major new shareholder; the sale followed Hashim’s resignation as the company’s president commissioner.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:54 WIB
Economist Says Price Stability Maintained During Two Years of Prabowo-Gibran Government
Indef executive director Esther Sri Astuti says holding down subsidised energy prices and strengthening food reserves have helped curb inflationary pressure and protect household purchasing power during the Prabowo-Gibran administration’s first two years. Official figures show annual inflation at 3.28 per cent in September 2026, with food, beverages and tobacco among the main contributors.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:52 WIB
Muhammadiyah Calls for Tighter Forest and Land Fire Prevention, Says Those Responsible for Burning Must Be Held Accountable
Muhammadiyah has urged the public not to clear land by burning and called for stronger prevention, coordinated government action and protection for people reporting fires. It also says officials and businesses must be held accountable for negligence or proven responsibility, including through legal consequences and environmental restoration.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:50 WIB
Toba Genomics Research Centre to Begin Operations in 2027, Focusing on Kratom and Benzoin
A genome-sequencing research centre in North Sumatra’s Toba region is planned to be inaugurated in March 2027, with kratom and benzoin identified as priorities for agricultural downstreaming. Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan says the initiative aims to develop higher-value products, including potential pharmaceutical applications, though market and export targets have not yet been specified.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:48 WIB
Why Do the Muslim Balkan States Take Different Stances on Israel?
Balkan states have taken markedly different positions on Israel’s war in Gaza, despite widespread European concern about Israel’s actions. Analysts attribute the divergence to domestic politics, national identity and interest-based diplomacy rather than any shared regional view of the Middle East; Bosnia and Herzegovina is a particularly clear example of these divisions.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:47 WIB
Two Years of Prabowo-Gibran: Indonesia’s Economy Moves Towards Greater Sovereignty
The article argues that Indonesia has maintained growth and stability during the first two years of President Prabowo Subianto and Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, citing stronger growth in 2025 and investment, exports and inflation figures in 2026. It presents downstream processing as central to building economic sovereignty, while noting that productivity, job quality, investment distribution, logistics costs, legal certainty and support for small businesses remain unresolved challenges.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:47 WIB
BPDP Supports World Coconut Day 2026, Promotes Downstream Development of the Coconut Industry
Indonesia’s Plantation Fund Management Agency (BPDP) is supporting World Coconut Day 2026 in Manado, which brings together participants from 21 countries to advance coconut processing, bioeconomy development and export markets. The event is expected to produce policy recommendations and foster business and investment partnerships that increase the value of coconut products and improve the livelihoods of Indonesian farmers.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:47 WIB
Budiman Sudjatmiko: Food self-sufficiency drives poverty reduction
Budiman Sudjatmiko says food self-sufficiency can help reduce poverty by raising agricultural output, farmers’ incomes and rural economic activity. He praised Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman for achieving the national rice self-sufficiency target in one year, rather than the four years originally set by President Prabowo Subianto.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:46 WIB
LMND Says Free Education Proposal Deserves Support in the Interest of Fairness
The National League of Students for Democracy (LMND) has backed President Prabowo Subianto’s proposal for free education, arguing it would widen fair and equal access from kindergarten through state universities. Its secretary-general also called for education laws to protect education as a constitutional right and prevent its commercialisation, urging public oversight of the National Education System Bill.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:45 WIB
KPK Warns Nusron Wahid to Comply with Examination Summons
Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has urged Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning Minister and National Land Agency head Nusron Wahid to cooperate with its investigation after he failed to attend two summonses. The commission is examining the reasons for his absences and says it may consider issuing an order to bring him in if he does not comply with a future summons.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:45 WIB
World-Class CEOs to Gather at DTIIF 2026: How to Register
Danantara Indonesia’s DTIIF 2026 will bring Nobel laureates, global technology executives, investors and Indonesian public- and private-sector leaders together in Jakarta from 26 to 28 October. The forum aims to turn technological breakthroughs into industrial partnerships and investment, with registration open to the public subject to organiser review.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:45 WIB
Mark Zuckerberg’s WhatsApp Messages Leave Meta Whiz Kid Puzzled
Alexandr Wang said he was initially baffled by Mark Zuckerberg’s long, detailed WhatsApp replies, given the Meta chief’s demanding schedule. Wang credited Zuckerberg’s fast, thoughtful writing and strict prioritisation, and recounted how their relationship developed into Wang joining Meta after it invested US$14.3 billion in Scale AI for a 49% stake.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:43 WIB
Identity of Skeleton Found in Pajangan, Bantul, Identified
Police have identified human remains found in Pajangan, Bantul, as Muhammad Rofingi, 33, after matching distinctive dental features with information from his family. The remains were handed over to his sister on Tuesday; investigators said the man had likely been dead for four to five months.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:43 WIB
Police Arrest Laptop Thief at Central Lombok Primary School; He Has Been Jailed Five Times
West Nusa Tenggara police have arrested a man suspected of stealing computers from a primary school in Central Lombok, along with another man accused of receiving the stolen goods. The alleged thief is a repeat offender who has served time in prison five times; police say they are tracing the remaining items and investigating whether others were involved.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:42 WIB
Hasanuddin University Establishes Research Centre to Amplify Eastern Indonesia’s Voice
Hasanuddin University has established a public opinion, democracy and development research centre to ensure that perspectives from Eastern Indonesia are better represented in national discussions. Its rector says the region has long lagged on various indices and that dedicated surveys can prevent its views from being overshadowed by more populous western areas.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:41 WIB
North Korean Media Release Photos of Kim Jong Un Amid Rumours He Suffered a Brain Haemorrhage and Died
North Korean state media published photographs showing Kim Jong Un at a consumer-goods exhibition, accompanied by his daughter and officials, after social media claims that he had suffered a brain haemorrhage and died. The reports remain difficult to verify independently because of North Korea’s restricted information environment, and his health has not been officially confirmed.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:41 WIB
Guan Gong’s Spirit Resonates with Young People Worldwide
Young people from Taiwan, mainland China and the United States describe Guan Gong’s values of loyalty and righteousness as a living cultural tradition, reflected in worship, community identity and contemporary creative products. The article says more than 30,000 Guandi temples and Guan Gong halls exist across at least 168 countries and regions, while digital tools are helping give the tradition new vitality.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:41 WIB
Central Sulawesi Provincial Government Holds Low-Cost Food Market to Stabilise Prices
Central Sulawesi has launched a low-cost food market ahead of major religious holidays to help stabilise supplies and prices and protect residents’ purchasing power. Subsidised staples, including rice, cooking oil, vegetables and eggs, are being sold at below-market prices, with support from Bank Sulteng and around 15 distributors.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:40 WIB
IDX Suspends Trading in Two Issuers, Including HSC Stock
The Indonesia Stock Exchange has temporarily suspended trading in MNC Digital Entertainment (MSIN) and Bank of India Indonesia (BSWD) from 21 October 2026, citing sharp cumulative price movements. MSIN fell 31.21% in a week, while BSWD, classified as a high-shareholding-concentration stock, surged 438.33%; the exchange said the measure gives investors time to assess available information.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:39 WIB
Hajj Ministry Pushes for Transformation of Services, from Quotas to Oversight
Indonesia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah says it is improving governance and services for prospective Hajj and Umrah pilgrims, with a focus on accessibility, predictable processes, affordability and protection. The ministry’s establishment under a 2025 amendment to the Hajj and Umrah law provides a new institutional framework, but officials say its policies must deliver consistent, measurable benefits for pilgrims.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:39 WIB
Metro Jakarta Police Reveal Roles of 16 Suspects in Illegal Tramadol Factory in Sukoharjo
Metro Jakarta Police have arrested 16 people linked to two illegal drug factories in Sukoharjo, Central Java, which produced Tramadol and other restricted medicines. The case was uncovered after Customs and Excise alerted police to a shipment of 20 packages in North Jakarta, and the investigation is described as part of a wider effort to curb drug and medicine abuse.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:39 WIB
Metro Jaya Police Seize 7 Million Tramadol Tablets from Factory in Sukoharjo
Metro Jaya Police uncovered illegal factories producing Tramadol and Trihexyphenidyl in Sukoharjo, Central Java, seizing nearly 7.9 million finished tablets, 29 tonnes of ingredients and production machinery. Sixteen suspects were arrested after an initial seizure of 650,000 tablets in North Jakarta led investigators to the factories; police urged the public to obtain medicines only through authorised pharmacies and use them as prescribed.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:38 WIB
MP Backs MUI Review of Vape Fatwa to Protect the Younger Generation
Commission IX MP Netty Prasetiyani Aher supports the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) reviewing a religious ruling on vaping, following a call by the National Police chief. She says the review should consider religious principles and scientific evidence, alongside stronger oversight, public health education and enforcement to prevent vape products from being misused to distribute narcotics or other prohibited substances.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:38 WIB
Facts Behind the Execution of Two Bangladeshis Accused of Indecency at a Makkah Mosque, According to Dhaka Media
Bangladesh is seeking answers after Saudi Arabia executed two of its citizens, with records reportedly listing different charges and not recording their death sentences. Dhaka has requested court rulings and details of the proceedings, while discrepancies in the available documents have raised questions about the charges and consular notification.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:37 WIB
98th Youth Pledge Day in 2026: Theme and Meaning of the Logo
Indonesia’s Minister for Youth and Sports has issued a circular setting out the theme and arrangements for the 98th Youth Pledge Day in 2026. The celebration’s theme, “Patriotic, Resilient, Empathetic: Youth for Indonesia”, and its logo emphasise unity, collaboration and young people’s contribution to national development.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:37 WIB
Hanandjoeddin Air Base Deploys Personnel to Help Extinguish Forest and Land Fires in Belitung
Firefighters from H. AS Hanandjoeddin Air Base were deployed to help tackle a blaze in forested land in Buding Village, East Belitung. The fire was contained before spreading to homes or productive land, as the air base commander urged residents not to clear land by burning amid hot, windy conditions.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:35 WIB
Four Surabaya Teenagers Charged over Beating Friend to Death in Sandal Dispute
Four teenagers have been charged with jointly assaulting 19-year-old Thomas Julianus Kristanto, who died after they accused him of taking a sandal. The defendants admitted their actions and apologised to his family, while Thomas’s sister urged the court to ensure the legal process delivers justice.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:35 WIB
These Signs of High Cholesterol May Show Up in Your Legs: Have You Checked?
High cholesterol can restrict blood flow and contribute to peripheral artery disease (PAD), with symptoms that may appear in the legs, including coldness, skin discolouration, pain and cramping. Persistent wounds and shrinking calf muscles can also signal advanced circulation problems, so early medical assessment is important.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:32 WIB
Muhammadiyah urges public not to clear land by burning
Muhammadiyah has urged communities to avoid using fire to clear land and to report forest and land fires or suspected violations, calling for protection of those who come forward. It also called on governments and businesses to strengthen prevention and recovery, and to support local communities and smallholders in managing land sustainably as fires continue to threaten people and the environment.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:32 WIB
Indonesia prioritises economic programmes for border communities
BNPPDT chief Maruli Simanjuntak has called for practical, cost-efficient initiatives to strengthen economies in border and remote communities, with regional teams assessing local potential and needs. Their findings will guide detailed development plans, including infrastructure and public facilities, while existing agency programmes continue.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:31 WIB
Anitawati Revives Tidore’s Heritage Through the Revival of Puta Dino Kayangan Weaving
Anitawati has been named among the top three finalists in the Regional Cultural Preservation category of the 2026 DPD RI Awards, recognised for restoring Tidore weaving after it disappeared for more than a century. Since 2018, her work has reconstructed traditional techniques and patterns while creating livelihoods, promoting women’s and youth empowerment, and showcasing Tidore culture internationally.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:30 WIB
Public Works Ministry: Karangnongko Dam Could Be Completed in Early 2027
The Public Works Ministry now expects the Karangnongko Dam in Central Java to be completed in early 2027, with land acquisition still under way. Physical construction and land acquisition are proceeding in parallel, and the ministry says the technical work can meet its targets once the land requirements are fulfilled.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:30 WIB
National Economic Council Urges Continued Capital Market Reform After MSCI Announcement, Highlights Enforcement
Indonesia’s National Economic Council has urged the government and market regulators to continue capital market reforms and enforce rules following MSCI’s plan to reclassify the country’s equity market from emerging to standalone status. Deputy Chair Mari Elka Pangestu said the issue was discussed at a limited meeting with President Prabowo Subianto, stressing that existing laws give regulators scope to take firm action against violations.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:30 WIB
Five People Named as Suspects over Batam Power Outage: What Happened
Police have named four PLN Batam staff members and a contractor as suspects over the widespread blackout that hit Batam and Bintan on 12 October 2026. Investigators cite a transformer short circuit, a failure in the protection system and wildlife-protection equipment that had been left disabled; estimated customer compensation losses total Rp57.3 billion.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:29 WIB
Forest Fire in Tanjung Puting National Park Threatens Nearby Settlement, Hundreds of Residents at Risk
A forest and land fire in Tanjung Puting National Park has spread to within about four kilometres of Teluk Pulai village, putting its 495 residents at risk. Local residents and a joint response team are working to contain the blaze, which has also caused haze and disrupted transport; 60 volunteer firefighters and five police officers have been deployed.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:28 WIB
Muhammadiyah Urges Government to Take Firm Action Against Those Responsible for Forest and Land Fires
Muhammadiyah has called on central and regional governments to respond swiftly to forest and land fires (karhutla), protect affected communities and investigate alleged negligence and violations. It says accountability must extend to individuals, companies and any officials or law-enforcement personnel implicated, while urging broader reform of forest and land management policies.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:28 WIB
KPK Probes BNPB Procurement Won by Company Linked to Suspect’s Wife
Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is investigating BNPB procurement projects allegedly arranged to favour certain parties, including companies linked to the wife of suspect Bima Setiawan. Investigators are also examining alleged private-sector bribes to BNPB officials as part of a case involving emergency disaster-response funds; five people were named suspects after a raid in October 2026.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:25 WIB
Retail Investors Dominate Indonesia’s Stock Market: Blessing or Curse?
Retail investors accounted for 55% of the Indonesia Stock Exchange’s average daily trading value in September 2026, despite their share of total listed-share ownership standing at just 18.1%. Their nominal daily trading value fell by around 59.4% from January, highlighting the distinction between trading activity and ownership; rising retail participation brings the prospect of greater liquidity but also risks from speculation and herd behaviour.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:22 WIB
Bitmine Says Its ETH Holdings Have Reached 6.04 Million Tokens, with Crypto, Cash and Securities Worth $15.1 Billion
Bitmine reports that it holds 6.04 million ETH, equivalent to 4.9% of the total supply, alongside cash, marketable securities and other crypto investments worth a combined $15.1 billion. The company says more than 5.06 million ETH are staked and projects annual staking rewards of up to $369 million if all its ETH is staked, while its chairman argues that recent market weakness may offer an attractive risk-reward opportunity.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:22 WIB
Indonesia’s Stock Market Faces Downgrade to Standalone Market: National Economic Council’s Advice to Prabowo
The National Economic Council has urged the government to continue capital-market reforms and regulatory enforcement after MSCI proposed reclassifying Indonesia from an emerging market to a standalone market. Mari Elka Pangestu said existing legislation gives regulators scope to take firm action against capital-market violations.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:20 WIB
Palestinian Official Warns West Bank Is on the Brink of Conflict Explosion
A senior Fatah official has warned that settler violence could trigger a wider eruption of conflict in the occupied West Bank, as attacks on Palestinians intensify and Israel steps up security ahead of its 27 October election. The warning comes amid international condemnation over assaults on foreign visitors and diplomats, arrests of 10 suspects, and deepening tensions over Israeli settlement expansion.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:20 WIB
Nine Middle East War Updates: Borders and the Strait of Hormuz Closed
The conflict is spreading across the region, with Iraq closing a border crossing with Iran and Iran’s Revolutionary Guard claiming the Strait of Hormuz is shut to shipping. Military threats and attacks involving the US, Israel, Saudi Arabia and the Houthis have fuelled concern over regional stability and global energy supplies, while oil prices remain volatile.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:19 WIB
A Century of Geothermal Energy: Kamojang Preserves Its Legacy for the Energy of the Future
Indonesia’s first geothermal exploration began in Kamojang, West Java, a century ago. Under Pertamina Geothermal Energy, the site has now recorded an all-time production high, while the report examines geothermal energy’s place in local life and the company’s plans to support energy security.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:19 WIB
China defends DeepSeek after US ban on its AI in government systems
China condemned a US order requiring federal civilian agencies to remove DeepSeek products and related services from their IT systems, calling the restrictions discriminatory and warning it would take measures to protect Chinese companies’ interests. The dispute highlights widening strategic distrust between the two countries as they compete over AI, despite limited cooperation on governance and plans for the issue to feature in talks between their leaders.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:19 WIB
Central Java DPRD Backs Mangrove Planting to Tackle Coastal Erosion in Demak
Central Java officials and local communities have launched a mangrove-planting pilot in Demak as a nature-based response to coastal erosion, while plans for a giant sea wall are pending. The initiative is intended to combine ecosystem restoration with community involvement and economic empowerment, as residents describe the loss of farmland and livelihoods caused by encroaching tides.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:18 WIB
Bogor Man Attacked with Samurai Sword After Joke About Insufficient Shopping Money
A customer in Jonggol, Bogor, was allegedly beaten and slashed with a samurai sword by a grocery shopkeeper and his brother following an argument sparked by a joke about his shopping money being short. Police say both suspects have been detained and are being questioned as part of the investigation.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:15 WIB
After Exchange Questions on Forest Fires, PSGO’s Palm Oil Mill in East Kalimantan Catches Fire
PT Palma Serasih said a palm oil mill operated by its subsidiary, PT Nusaraya Agro Sawit, caught fire on 18 October in East Kalimantan; no fatalities have been reported. The company is still assessing the cause and damage, but says plantation operations remain normal and fresh fruit bunches can be processed at another subsidiary’s mill. The incident came days after PSGO responded to the Indonesia Stock Exchange’s questions about forest and land fires near its operating areas, which it said had not materially affected its business.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:15 WIB
Amid Extreme Drought, Two Dompu Villages Receive Clean Water Up to Five Times a Day
Two villages in Dompu Regency, West Nusa Tenggara, are among the worst affected by the 2026 extreme drought, with local authorities delivering clean water as often as five times daily. By mid-October, drought and clean-water shortages had affected 2,237 households across eight villages and two urban wards in four districts, up from 1,877 households recorded in early September.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:14 WIB
10 Investment Managers Face Sentencing Hearing in PT Asabri Corruption Case
Ten investment management companies are due to face prosecutors’ sentencing demands in the alleged corruption of PT Asabri’s investment funds between 2012 and 2019. The companies are accused of causing state losses totalling Rp7.87 trillion, with individual alleged losses ranging from Rp93.4 billion to Rp2.28 trillion.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:13 WIB
Indonesian anger grows over wildfires and toxic haze
Protests in several Indonesian cities have criticised the government’s handling of wildfires that have burned more than 1.9 million hectares in the first nine months of 2026, causing prolonged toxic haze and illness. Authorities say more than 60,000 firefighters have been deployed, while residents report health and economic hardship and demonstrators call for stronger action, including an emergency declaration.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:13 WIB
BP Batam opens OSS consultation as more than 100 companies attend coaching clinic
BP Batam held a coaching clinic to help more than 100 companies address administrative issues and complete business-permit requirements through the OSS risk-based licensing system. The one-to-one consultations with BP Batam, the Investment Ministry/BKPM and other units aim to clarify requirements, resolve bottlenecks and improve compliance, with effectiveness depending on follow-through after the event.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:12 WIB
How Kashmir’s Muslims Foiled Modi’s Party’s Bid to Standardise Friday Sermons
Darakhshan Andrabi, head of the Jammu and Kashmir Waqf Board and a local BJP figure, withdrew a proposal to standardise Friday sermons after politicians and religious leaders condemned it. Critics said the plan represented an attempt by the government to tighten its control over Muslim religious spaces in the predominantly Muslim region.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:12 WIB
South Korea Threatens Firm Action against North Korea and Withdraws Embassy Staff from Ukraine
South Korea warned North Korea it would respond firmly to any further provocations amid escalating tensions along the border, while accusing Pyongyang of mine-laying and repeated crossings of the Military Demarcation Line. Seoul has also withdrawn some staff from its embassy in Ukraine, citing persistent air-raid threats and a worsening dispute over President Volodymyr Zelensky’s disclosure of North Korean prisoners of war being transferred to South Korea.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:10 WIB
High-Paid Official Executed for Failing in His Duties
J.F.P. Filz, a colonel tasked with defending Ambon, was executed in 1810 after British forces captured the strategically important island from the Dutch. The episode highlights the severe discipline imposed by Governor-General Herman Willem Daendels, whose efforts to curb corruption through higher official salaries were paired with harsh penalties for failure.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:09 WIB
Geothermal Energy Becomes Part of Everyday Life in Kamojang
Kamojang, West Java, marks 100 years since Indonesia’s first geothermal exploration with a record-high production milestone under Pertamina Geothermal Energy. The report examines how geothermal energy has become part of local residents’ lives and PGE’s plans to strengthen energy security.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:08 WIB
Deputy Public Works Minister: Weather Modification Planned to Address Water Shortages at Java’s Dams
The Public Works Ministry is preparing weather-modification operations to increase the chances of rainfall and replenish dam reserves depleted by an extended drought linked to an extreme El Niño. The ministry says funding for dam construction in 2027 is available and that preparations for 2028 projects are under way, as it seeks to strengthen water security amid rising drought risks.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:06 WIB
UNS Alumnus Challenges High School Certificate Requirement for Presidential and Vice-Presidential Candidates at Constitutional Court
Farhan Hilmy, a medical graduate of Universitas Sebelas Maret, has asked the Constitutional Court to review the requirement that presidential and vice-presidential candidates submit proof of secondary-school graduation. He argues that the rule unfairly excludes valid higher-education qualifications as evidence, while a Constitutional Court judge warned that his petition needs revisions and noted that Parliament is discussing amendments to the Election Law.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:06 WIB
BRI and Government Link the World with Indonesia to Drive Global Investment and Empower Local Economies
BRI and Indonesia’s Foreign Ministry convened diplomats, government officials and business groups to connect international investors with opportunities in Indonesia and expand access to overseas markets for domestic firms and MSMEs. BRI outlined its Foreign Direct Investment services, integrated banking solutions and digital platform, alongside an investment guidebook developed with the Investment and Downstreaming Ministry/BKPM, to support investors and strengthen local supply-chain participation.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:05 WIB
Elderly Badung Man Charged with Beating His Older Brother to Death
A 60-year-old man from Badung has been charged with assaulting his older brother, who later died, in an incident at their home in July 2026. Prosecutors allege he repeatedly struck the victim with wooden sticks; the indictment cites alternative provisions of Indonesia’s 2023 Criminal Code and details extensive head and facial injuries.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:05 WIB
Samsung Galaxy A07s Launches in Indonesia, a Rp2 Million Phone with a Large Battery
Samsung has launched the Galaxy A07s in Indonesia at Rp2,699,000, featuring a 5,000mAh battery, a 6.7-inch 90Hz display and a MediaTek Helio G99+ processor. The company is also promising up to six generations of Android operating system updates and six years of security updates, with promotional bonuses available until 26 October 2026.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:03 WIB
Rupiah Holds at Rp17,992 per US Dollar: How Will Fed Policy Affect It?
The rupiah opened flat at Rp17,992 per US dollar on Wednesday, maintaining the gains made in the previous session. A currency analyst linked Tuesday’s strengthening to the US decision to exempt Russia-related trade from certain tariffs and sanctions, while markets remain alert to geopolitical tensions and the Federal Reserve’s interest-rate direction.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:03 WIB
Palembang Still Shrouded in Forest-Fire Haze, Residents Fear Road Accidents
Thick haze from forest and land fires blanketed Palembang on the morning of 21 October, reducing visibility and causing health complaints. Residents criticised local authorities for failing to resolve the fires and called for prevention, law enforcement against land burners and daily, transparent air-quality updates.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:01 WIB
Two Years of Prabowo-Gibran: Government Communications Agency Highlights Religion’s Role in Unity and Fighting Corruption
The Government Communications Agency has praised the Religious Affairs Ministry’s efforts to promote national unity, anti-corruption values and human-resource development through education. Religious harmony reached a record 77.89 in 2025, while the ministry also cited faith-based anti-corruption education and improvements to internal oversight systems.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:01 WIB
Silmy Karim’s First Extortion Case Hearing Set for 29 October
The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has submitted indictments against former Deputy Minister of Immigration and Corrections Silmy Karim and seven other defendants in an alleged extortion scheme involving residence permits for foreign nationals. Prosecutors allege the scheme generated Rp145.5 billion, with Silmy purportedly receiving Rp100 million a week.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:01 WIB
BRI Connects Global Investors with Business and MSME Opportunities in Indonesia
Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) is working with the Foreign Ministry to attract foreign investment and link international investors with Indonesian businesses and MSMEs. The bank has launched an investment guidebook with the Investment and Downstreaming Ministry/BKPM and is promoting integrated banking services to support investors and strengthen local firms’ participation in supply chains.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 10:00 WIB
Prabowo Briefed as Downstreaming Exports Set to Surge 45%
Indonesia’s National Economic Council (DEN) estimates that exports from downstream processing of nickel, aluminium and lithium-battery components will reach US$50 billion this year, around 45% above the 2024 figure. DEN says expanding aluminium smelter investment could lift aluminium exports to US$10 billion in the future.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 09:58 WIB
Metro Jakarta Police Bust Illegal Tramadol Factory in Sukoharjo, Arrest 16
Metro Jakarta Police say they have uncovered illegal production sites for Tramadol and other prescription medicines in Sukoharjo, Central Java, arresting 16 people and seizing millions of pills. The investigation began with a Customs and Excise alert about a shipment in North Jakarta; police are still investigating the suspects’ roles and searching for two other people allegedly involved.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 09:57 WIB
Hegseth: US Still Investigating Attack on Girls’ School in Iran
US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said an investigation into a deadly attack on a girls’ school in southern Iran is ongoing, with findings to be released in due course. More than 170 people, most of them children, were killed in the 28 February strike, which Iran says involved a Tomahawk missile.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 09:57 WIB
JCI Falls 1%: Here’s What’s Behind the Decline
Indonesia’s benchmark Jakarta Composite Index fell 1.31% in the first trading session, led by steep losses in energy and basic materials shares. Investors remain focused on MSCI-related concerns and awaited Bank Indonesia’s rate decision amid rupiah weakness, while market participants also watched share buybacks and the government’s response to market issues.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 09:57 WIB
UI Expert: Risk-Based Tax Refunds Protect Business Climate and State Revenue
University of Indonesia tax policy expert Ning Rahayu says risk-based audits of tax refund claims can make oversight more efficient while safeguarding state revenue. She says taxpayers’ compliance records and risk profiles should guide the depth of examination, while valid refund entitlements must be paid promptly under the applicable rules and deadlines.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 09:56 WIB
A Century of Steam at Kamojang and Misconceptions About Geothermal Energy
Kamojang’s geothermal field, where a colonial-era well drilled in 1926 still emits steam, offers a century of experience as opposition grows to proposed power plants elsewhere in Indonesia. Experts say many objections stem from misunderstandings, explaining how deep geothermal reservoirs are separated from shallow groundwater and how reinjection sustains the resource.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 09:56 WIB
BPBD: Haze from Forest and Land Fires Has Not Reached Bali
Bali’s disaster management agency says haze from forest and land fires in Kalimantan has not reached the island, citing prevailing easterly winds and confirmation from the meteorological agency. It said recent poor air-quality readings in Denpasar were more likely linked to local pollution, including emissions from power plants and motor vehicles.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 09:55 WIB
Abu Dhabi Royal Is Found Overdosed on London Street, Child Left Unsupervised
Mahrah Al Nahyan, a member of Abu Dhabi’s royal family by marriage, admitted in a London court to child neglect after she and a man were found unconscious, with her three-year-old child nearby and unsupervised. She was ordered to complete two years of community service and rehabilitation, and fined £6,114.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 09:50 WIB
Asian Currencies Slide, but the Rupiah and Taiwan Dollar Gain
Most Asian currencies weakened against the US dollar on Wednesday, even as the greenback remained under pressure. The Taiwan dollar led gains, while the rupiah edged up 0.02% to Rp17,977 per US dollar, moving back below the Rp18,000 level as markets weighed geopolitical risks, falling oil prices and upcoming central bank decisions.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 09:49 WIB
US Warns of Potential Clashes During France’s National Rally Convention
The US State Department has warned that demonstrations involving anti-fascist groups near the National Rally convention could escalate into clashes, potentially exposing security shortcomings and intensifying political tensions. The warning comes after recent protests over the cost of living and declining education standards led to violence and mass arrests across France, and could provide political ammunition against President Emmanuel Macron’s government.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 09:47 WIB
Sudewo’s Verdict Hearing to Be Held Today, Semarang District Court to Livestream Proceedings on YouTube
The Semarang Corruption Court is scheduled to deliver its verdict in the case of suspended Pati regent Sudewo on 21 October 2026, with proceedings broadcast live on the district court’s YouTube channel. Security will be stepped up, and attendance in the courtroom restricted because of limited capacity, with places allocated for 15 journalists and 25 supporters.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 09:45 WIB
IDX Keeps Close Watch on LUCY and VKTR Shares After Unusual Price Movements
The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) has placed PT Lima Dua Lima Tiga (LUCY) and PT VKTR Teknologi Mobilitas (VKTR) under close scrutiny after identifying unusual share-price movements. Both stocks have fallen sharply over the past month, and the exchange urged investors to review issuer disclosures and risks before making investment decisions.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 09:44 WIB
ASDP Chief: Cause of KMP Batumandi Fire Still Under Investigation
PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry chief executive Heru Widodo said authorities are still investigating the cause of the fire aboard KMP Batumandi near Merak Port. ASDP said it is cooperating with the relevant agencies and apologised to passengers and others affected, stressing that safety remains its priority.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 09:42 WIB
Breaking: JCI Falls 1%
Indonesia’s Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) fell 1.31% in early trading after opening higher, amid renewed selling pressure and ongoing market concerns over MSCI’s review of Indonesia’s market status. Investors are also awaiting Bank Indonesia’s rate decision, while Danantara’s planned purchases of state-owned shares and efforts to strengthen capital-market enforcement may help support sentiment.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 09:41 WIB
Education Ministry: Academic Test to Objectively Map Students’ Abilities
Indonesia’s Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education says the 2026 Academic Ability Test (TKA) will provide a nationally standardised, more objective picture of students’ learning outcomes. The computer-based test is scheduled for 26 October to 8 November, with make-up sessions in late November, and is intended to assess comprehension, information processing and reasoning rather than serve as a threat to students.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 09:41 WIB
BRI and Government Join Forces to Attract Global Investment and Boost the Local Economy
Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs have brought together diplomats, government representatives and international business groups to connect global investors with opportunities in Indonesia. BRI is promoting its Foreign Direct Investment services and an investment guidebook produced with the Investment and Downstreaming Ministry/BKPM, aiming to support investors while linking Indonesian firms and SMEs to global supply chains.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 09:38 WIB
Pasar Minggu Civil Registry Introduces Simas Gesit to Simplify Population Administration
The Pasar Minggu Civil Registry office in South Jakarta has launched Simas Gesit, a web-based service that lets residents apply online for selected population documents. The initiative is intended to improve access, reduce queues at the sub-district office and encourage residents to keep their civil registration records up to date.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 09:38 WIB
GMI to Monitor Government’s Strategic Programmes to Ensure They Deliver Real Benefits
The Gelanggang Muda Indonesia (GMI), a forum of national student and youth organisations, says it will scrutinise President Prabowo Subianto and Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s strategic programmes to ensure they benefit the public. Its priorities include anti-corruption and bureaucratic reform, free education, oversight of the Free Nutritious Meals programme, and action on agrarian and environmental issues.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 09:38 WIB
DKI Students Delighted as Renovated School Offers a More Comfortable Learning Environment
Pupils at SDN Pekayon 05 say they are happier with their school after a Rp101.3 billion refurbishment transformed two ageing schools into a modern, integrated complex. The project added facilities including lifts and sports areas, and enabled SMPN 91 Jakarta to move from two shifts to a single shift; Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung said the city would ensure the facilities are maintained.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 09:37 WIB
AiMOGA Opens Pre-orders for Mobo Humanoid Robot
AiMOGA has launched Mobo, a family companion humanoid robot, and opened pre-orders at the Chery International User Summit 2026 in China. The robot combines AI features and MoAgent software to support everyday interaction and tasks, as Chery-backed AiMOGA also showcased several other robots at the event.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 09:36 WIB
Andra Soni Proposes Splitting Banten Public Works Department into Highways and Water Resources Agencies
Banten Governor Andra Soni has proposed restructuring the provincial administration, including dividing the Public Works and Spatial Planning Department into separate agencies for water resources, human settlements and spatial planning, and roads and construction. The proposal also includes renaming the tourism and regional planning bodies and will be deliberated by the provincial legislature before becoming a regional regulation.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 09:35 WIB
BNPB: 570 Hectares of Land Still Burning in Sumatra and Kalimantan
The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) says 570.08 hectares remain under firefighting and cooling operations across six priority provinces, with Central Kalimantan and South Sumatra accounting for most of the area. Fires are also active in other parts of Indonesia; authorities have deployed aircraft and more than 60,000 personnel, while testing dry-ice weather modification to improve visibility amid haze.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 09:35 WIB
Indonesia Urged to Prepare as El Niño Expected to End Next Year, Followed by La Niña
National Economic Council Deputy Chair Mari Elka Pangestu has urged the government to prepare for El Niño conditions that may continue until the first quarter of 2027, with La Niña expected in mid-year. She called for data-led measures to protect agricultural output, food supplies and prices, alongside preparations for flooding, forest and land fires, and smoke-related health impacts.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 09:35 WIB
North Korean media release photos of Kim Jong Un amid death rumours
North Korean state media published photographs showing Kim Jong Un visiting a consumer goods exhibition with his daughter, Ju Ae, after social media claims that he had died of a brain haemorrhage. The unverified claims included reports that he had been taken to hospital in China and that his body had been secretly returned to North Korea; his health has not been officially confirmed.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 09:34 WIB
Economist: Economy Has Grown Fairly Well During Prabowo-Gibran’s First Two Years
An economist at the University of Jember says Indonesia has maintained fairly solid economic growth despite global and domestic pressures during the first two years of the Prabowo-Gibran administration. He warns, however, that growth has yet to translate into improved purchasing power—particularly for the middle class—and calls for better-paying formal jobs and coordinated fiscal and monetary policies.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 09:34 WIB
Muhammadiyah: Forest and Land Fires Must Not Be Normalised as an Annual Disaster
Muhammadiyah has called on the government, law enforcement agencies and businesses to take stronger action against recurring forest and land fires, particularly in Sumatra and Kalimantan. Its nine-point statement prioritises public safety, year-round prevention, impartial law enforcement, coordinated government action and the restoration of affected communities and ecosystems.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 09:32 WIB
Don’t Blindly Trust Eco-Friendly Labels
Environmental activist Benedict Wermter argues that consumers, particularly in Indonesia, are vulnerable to greenwashing when sustainability claims outpace genuine environmental improvements. Examples such as straws marketed as both recyclable and biodegradable show why clear evidence and disposal guidance are essential.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 09:31 WIB
Excavation Works Cause Traffic Jams on Otista Road Towards Kampung Melayu
Excavation work at the Cawang Baru traffic lights in East Jakarta has narrowed Otista Road, causing congestion for traffic heading towards Kampung Melayu. Police have urged motorists to take care when passing the site.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 09:30 WIB
KPK Investigators Carry Suitcase of Evidence After Searching Klaten Regency Office
Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) investigators searched several rooms at the Klaten Regency Government Office as part of an alleged corruption investigation involving Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo, who was caught in a KPK sting operation. Investigators carried a suitcase from the office as they continued gathering evidence, while legal proceedings remain ongoing.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 09:30 WIB
Luhut Reports Fuel Study to Prabowo: Here’s What It Says
The National Economic Council (DEN) presented President Prabowo Subianto with recommendations on the global economic outlook and measures to strengthen the national economy, including subsidised fuel policy. The council backed keeping subsidised fuel prices stable to protect purchasing power, while discussing fiscally sustainable measures and longer-term reforms to better target energy subsidies; DEN chair Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan also called for improvements to prevent fuel shortages.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 09:26 WIB
30 National Santri Day 2026 Captions for Twibbons and Social Media
National Santri Day is observed on 22 October to honour the role of santri in Indonesia’s independence struggle and their contributions to religion, society and the nation. This article offers 30 messages for social media, emphasising learning, faith, good character and the value of sharing knowledge.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 09:25 WIB
Timah (TINS) Secures Rp4 Trillion Credit Facility from Bank Mandiri
PT Timah has secured a credit facility of up to Rp4 trillion from Bank Mandiri, intended to support working capital and meet obligations related to the placement of natural-resource export proceeds (DHE-SDA). The 12-month facility is revolving at the limit level, with individual drawdowns non-revolving; Timah says it is expected to improve liquidity flexibility and will not affect its operations or business continuity.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 09:24 WIB
JCI moves sideways as markets await Bank Indonesia’s policy meeting outcome
Indonesia’s Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) weakened in early trading as investors awaited the outcome of Bank Indonesia’s Board of Governors Meeting, with the consensus expecting a 25-basis-point rate rise to 6 per cent. Analysts say a rate increase could support the rupiah but add pressure to equities and bonds through higher funding-cost expectations.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 09:20 WIB
Two Stock Markets Downgraded by MSCI Have Now Made a Successful Comeback
Greece has returned to developed-market status under FTSE Russell and STOXX, while Bulgaria is set to regain frontier-market classification from MSCI in May 2027. The upgrades reflect reforms and improvements in liquidity and market access, potentially broadening international investment, although sustained inflows will depend on continued economic progress and investor confidence.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 09:18 WIB
Lemkapi Says Police Are Committed to Taking Firm Action Against Forest and Land Fire Offenders
Lemkapi executive director Edi Saputra Hasibuan says the National Police are committed to tackling forest and land fires and prosecuting those responsible, calling for severe penalties against any corporations found guilty, including foreign firms. Police investigators have raised 98 corporate-related reports to the investigation stage and are still gathering evidence, including examining possible foreign involvement, before naming suspects.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 09:18 WIB
Trinugraha Thohir Buys Rp1 Billion Worth of Adaro Andalan Shares (AADI)
Thohir family investment firm PT Trinugraha Thohir bought 102,600 shares in Adaro Andalan Indonesia for approximately Rp1 billion in two transactions on 19 October 2026. Its stake rose to 90.03 million shares, or 1.1562% of the company’s voting rights, with the purchases recorded as an investment.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 09:17 WIB
JCI Opens 0.61% Higher at 5,310 This Morning
The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) opened 0.61% higher at 5,310 on Wednesday, tracking gains across most Asian markets and strength in several domestic sectors. This followed a 5.65% rally in the previous session, although foreign investors recorded net selling of Rp2.20 trillion on Tuesday.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 09:10 WIB
Immigration Confirms Nusron Wahid Travelled Abroad, But Does Not Know Whether He Has Returned
Indonesia’s Immigration Directorate General confirmed that Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning Minister Nusron Wahid travelled to Singapore and Malaysia last week, but said it could not confirm whether he had returned. The disclosure comes amid attention over his scheduled questioning by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) as a witness in a bribery investigation; immigration officials said they had received no request to prevent him from travelling.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 09:10 WIB
Antam Gold Falls by Rp10,000 to Its Lowest Level Since January
Antam’s one-gram gold price fell by Rp10,000 to Rp2,554,000 on Wednesday, its lowest level since 6 January 2026. The buyback price also declined by Rp10,000, while income tax applies to both purchases and qualifying buyback transactions.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 09:09 WIB
Badung’s Unemployment Rate Falls to 1.57% as Hundreds Find Work Overseas
Badung’s open unemployment rate fell from 2.72% to 1.57% in 2026, with the local government attributing the decline to economic recovery and stronger job placement. From January to August, 726 workers were placed, including 601 overseas; the regency is also expanding training, local hiring commitments and social protection for vulnerable workers.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 09:09 WIB
Rupiah Opens Flat as US Dollar Holds at Rp17,980
The rupiah opened unchanged at Rp17,980 per US dollar as markets awaited Bank Indonesia’s interest-rate decision amid currency weakness and rising inflation. A poll of 13 financial institutions found most expect a 25-basis-point increase to 6.00%, with pressure on the rupiah seen as a key factor in the decision.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 09:07 WIB
Three Police Officers Injured after Attack by Black-Clad Group During Bandung Protest
Three police officers were injured when a group of people dressed in black attacked a police crowd-control truck in Bandung on Tuesday evening, reportedly throwing stones, fireworks, firecrackers and petrol bombs. The incident briefly disrupted traffic, while police and emergency services remained on standby after the situation eased.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 09:05 WIB
ASDP Confirms Ongoing Response to KMP Batumandi Fire
ASDP says all passengers and crew were evacuated safely after a fire aboard the KMP Batumandi near Merak Port, with no fatalities reported. The ferry operator is coordinating medical care, passengers’ return journeys and monitoring of Merak–Bakauheni services while authorities assess operational needs.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 09:05 WIB
Areas Forecast to See Rain Today, 21 October 2026: Check Your City
BMKG forecasts rain ranging from light to very heavy across several Indonesian cities on Wednesday, with thunderstorms and strong winds possible in some areas. It also warns of waves reaching 2.5–4 metres in several seas, underscoring the need for caution among residents and coastal communities.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 09:05 WIB
Not Just Nickel: Aluminium Downstreaming Exports Surge to Rp129 Trillion
Indonesia’s aluminium downstreaming exports are forecast to reach US$7 billion–US$7.2 billion in 2026, up from US$3.5 billion in 2024, according to the National Economic Council. The council expects exports from nickel, aluminium and lithium-battery component downstreaming to total about US$50 billion this year, nearly 45% above the 2024 figure, with further growth anticipated as new aluminium smelters attract investment.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 09:04 WIB
Antam Gold Prices Fall Again to Rp2.554 Million per Gram
Antam’s gold bar price fell by Rp10,000 to Rp2.554 million per gram on Wednesday, while its buyback price stood at Rp2.369 million per gram. The report also lists prices for gold bars in a range of weights and notes the applicable tax deductions on purchases and buybacks.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 09:04 WIB
Jakarta Composite Index Extends Gains, Opens 0.61% Higher at 5,310
The Jakarta Composite Index opened 0.61% higher on Monday, extending a sharp rebound driven by share buyback announcements and assurances from market authorities and the government, although it soon slipped into negative territory. Investors remain focused on the MSCI-related concerns, Danantara’s proposed purchases of state-owned shares and Bank Indonesia’s interest-rate decision, amid wider pressure on Indonesian financial assets.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 09:00 WIB
Rising Inflation and Rupiah Pressure Leave Bank Indonesia Facing an Interest Rate Dilemma
LPEM FEB UI expects Bank Indonesia to hold its policy rate at 5.75% in October, prioritising rupiah stability as inflation approaches the top of its target range. Uncertainty over US Federal Reserve policy, foreign portfolio outflows and MSCI’s proposed downgrade of Indonesia’s equity-market classification are adding pressure, forcing the central bank to balance currency and price stability against economic growth.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 09:00 WIB
Creative Economy Ministry Seeks to Unlock Billions of Rupiah in Voice-over Industry
Indonesia’s Creative Economy Ministry is promoting the voice-over industry as demand rises across film, animation, gaming, advertising and digital content. Its Wonder Voice of Indonesia programme has generated more than Rp2.5 billion in direct economic impact, and the government is incorporating voice-over into its 2026–2045 creative economy master plan.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 09:00 WIB
DEN’s Advice on MSCI Issue Received by President
President Prabowo Subianto has received recommendations from the National Economic Council (DEN) following MSCI’s proposal to reclassify Indonesia’s capital market from emerging-market to standalone-market status. DEN urged the government to continue capital-market reforms and regulatory enforcement, while also presenting findings on economic risks, social protection, downstreaming and fuel distribution, and the free nutritious meals programme.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 09:00 WIB
Economists Split on Whether BI-Rate Will Hold or Rise in October 2026
Economists are divided over the Bank Indonesia policy rate, with some expecting it to remain at 5.75 per cent and others forecasting a 25-basis-point increase to 6 per cent as the rupiah faces pressure and foreign outflow risks grow after a proposed MSCI market reclassification. The debate reflects concern about external uncertainty, domestic inflation and market confidence, while analysts say any increase should be balanced with currency intervention and support for productive-sector financing.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 08:59 WIB
Disabled Child Bullied to Death in East Java; House of Representatives Commission IX Highlights Child Supervision
A child with a disability in Surabaya has died after an alleged bullying incident, prompting a House of Representatives commission deputy chair to call for a thorough investigation and stronger safeguards at home and school. She also urged better support for special-needs schools, including qualified teachers, adequate aides and appropriate curricula.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 08:59 WIB
BRI and Government Link Global Investors with Indonesian Opportunities
BRI and Indonesia’s Foreign Ministry convened foreign diplomats, government representatives and business chambers to discuss international partnerships and investment opportunities. The bank also introduced foreign direct investment support services and, with the Investment and Downstreaming Ministry/BKPM, an investment guidebook, aiming to connect overseas investors with domestic businesses and help Indonesian companies and MSMEs access global markets.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 08:58 WIB
Runway CEO Says AI Could Replace Human Actors
Runway chief executive Cristobal Valenzuela says AI is already beginning to replace human actors and predicts future models could be directed much like performers. Nvidia executive Richard Kerris argues that human spontaneity and improvisation will remain distinctive, while Valenzuela also expects AI to drive down image-production costs and enable audiences to create personalised entertainment.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 08:55 WIB
Land Fire in Bogor’s Gunung Putri Suspected to Have Been Caused by Burning Rubbish
A fire broke out on open land in Cikeas Udik village, Gunung Putri, Bogor, in the early hours of 21 October, with rubbish burning suspected as the cause. Firefighters contained and extinguished the blaze in about 1.5 hours; no casualties were reported.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 08:55 WIB
Free Nutritious Meals Encourage School Attendance, but Wealthy Pupils Still Among Recipients
A National Economic Council study found that Indonesia’s Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme is associated with lower school absenteeism, particularly among the poorest pupils, and greater enthusiasm for learning when meal quality is high. But distribution remains uneven, with recipients concentrated in urban areas and wealthy households, prompting calls to prioritise poor communities and remote regions.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 08:54 WIB
Lombok Airport Records Highest Aircraft Traffic During 2026 MotoGP
Lombok International Airport recorded five-year highs in aircraft movements, passenger numbers and cargo volume during the 2026 Indonesian MotoGP. Compared with the same period in 2025, aircraft movements rose 26 per cent, passenger traffic increased 10 per cent and cargo volume grew 37 per cent, reflecting the event’s boost to air travel to Lombok.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 08:53 WIB
Jakarta Provincial Government Holds Simultaneous Earthquake Drills at Schools and Offices
The Jakarta Provincial Government held a city-wide earthquake drill at 10am, involving government offices, schools, district and sub-district offices, and regional-owned enterprises. The exercise, conducted under a 2026 instruction, aims to improve public preparedness and ensure residents know how to protect themselves and evacuate safely during an earthquake.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 08:53 WIB
Full Text of the 2026 Santri Pledge, Read at Santri Day Commemorations
Indonesia’s National Santri Day is marked each year on 22 October, with ceremonies often including a reading of the Santri Pledge. The pledge affirms Islamic Ahlussunnah wal Jama’ah values, commitment to Indonesia’s constitutional and national principles, national development and unity, and readiness to defend the country.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 08:51 WIB
Bahlil on Gibran Diploma Controversy: Presumption of Innocence Should Prevail
Golkar chairman Bahlil Lahadalia said the party would respect the legal process over a challenge to Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s diploma and uphold the presumption of innocence. Golkar deputy chairman Ahmad Doli Kurnia separately pointed to an allegedly inserted provision in the 2023 KPU regulation and said Parliament’s Commission II could summon the election commission and other parties without resorting to an inquiry or special committee.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 08:50 WIB
PKS to Consult Other DPR Factions over Gibran’s Diploma Controversy
The Prosperous Justice Party (PKS) will consult other factions in the House of Representatives about public calls to pursue the controversy surrounding Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s diploma. The party says it will first gauge lawmakers’ views, including on the possibility of using the House’s inquiry or opinion rights, after parliament returns from recess.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 08:50 WIB
JCI Remains Volatile, with Several Stocks Worth Watching
The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) rebounded 5.65% after a sharp sell-off, although foreign investors remained net sellers and market sentiment was still shaped by reform plans and MSCI-related concerns. The article highlights expansion and corporate actions at Mutuagung Lestari, Wijaya Karya Beton and Satu Visi Putra, alongside a list of daily trading recommendations.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 08:49 WIB
Trump says Marine Le Pen has been treated unfairly
Donald Trump said Marine Le Pen appeared to have been treated badly and suggested the case against her might be politically motivated, but declined to say whether he would endorse her for France’s 2027 presidential election. Le Pen remains subject to a one-year sentence monitored by an electronic tag, which prosecutors say will not be applied during the campaign.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 08:48 WIB
Warren Buffett’s Strategy for Making Retirement Savings Last
Indonesia’s pension-fund literacy stood at 22.21 per cent in 2026, while inclusion was just 5.10 per cent, and the OJK says the country’s retirement income replacement ratio remains well below its 40 per cent benchmark. Buffett’s approach—mostly low-cost S&P 500 index funds alongside short-term government bonds—illustrates how long-term investing and a reserve for expenses may help retirees avoid selling shares during market downturns, though it is not a universal formula.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 08:46 WIB
Police investigate fatal pedestrian accident in North Jakarta
Police are investigating a collision in Koja in which a trailer truck struck a utility pole, killing a pedestrian and injuring the truck driver. Investigators say the truck may have veered after its brakes failed, colliding first with a minibus before hitting the pole and the pedestrian.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 08:45 WIB
Influencers’ Social Media Accounts Allegedly Shadow-Banned After Speaking Out About Forest and Land Fires
Several Indonesian influencers and public figures say their social media reach fell after they posted about forest and land fires, prompting discussion of alleged shadow-banning. The Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs denied instructing platforms to restrict or remove fire-related content.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 08:45 WIB
Israeli Flag at Lamongan Resident’s Home Causes Stir; Flag-Raiser Suspected of Mental Illness
An Israeli flag and mural at a home in Made village, Lamongan, went viral on social media, prompting local officials to remove the flag and clean nearby markings. Village officials said the resident lives alone and may have a mental health condition, and expressed hope that the incident would not cause further unease among residents.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 08:42 WIB
Foreign Investors Snap Up These 10 Shares as IDX Composite Jumps 5.6%
The IDX Composite rose 5.65% to 5,278.89 on Tuesday, 20 October 2026, with broad gains across listed shares and trading worth Rp26.54 trillion. Foreign investors nevertheless recorded net sales of Rp2.21 trillion overall, while selectively buying shares in 10 companies, led by Telkom Indonesia with net foreign purchases of Rp254.95 billion.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 08:42 WIB
Finance Minister Denies Civil Servants Will Be Paid Through Village Cooperatives, Says Bank Transfers Will Continue
Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara said civil servants’ salaries will continue to be paid through the banking system, rejecting speculation that payments would be channelled through the Merah Putih Village/Urban Village Cooperatives. He did not elaborate on the Cooperatives Ministry’s proposal.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 08:42 WIB
Japan Shows Signs of Losing Momentum as New Data Point to Slowdown
Japan’s exports rose 16.7% year on year in September, but the increase fell short of analysts’ forecasts for 20.1%, marking a second consecutive month of slower growth. Semiconductor shipments were a major driver, while imports also grew less than expected; exports have been an important support for Japan’s economy in the first half of 2026.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 08:42 WIB
MP Calls for Stronger Indonesian Diplomacy to Address Forest and Land Fires
Commission I member Junico Siahaan has urged Indonesia to strengthen regional cooperation and align diplomatic communications with agencies handling forest and land fires, stressing the safety of affected communities. The call follows Singapore’s notices to 10 Indonesian companies over fires suspected of contributing to cross-border haze, with the companies required to take steps to extinguish and prevent fires.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 08:39 WIB
MUI Urges Muslims to Boycott Preacher Who Demeans Women
The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) has urged Muslims not to invite or attend the sermons of Habib Alwi bin Abdurrahman Assegaf after a video of remarks about women went viral. MUI deputy chairman KH M Cholil Nafis said the comments were unbecoming of a religious leader and could harm the image of Islamic preaching; the article notes that the full context and the speaker’s identity in the clip still require direct confirmation.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 08:35 WIB
Technology Stocks Rebound as Asian Markets Open Higher
Asian markets opened higher, led by South Korean shares, as technology stocks recovered from a sharp sell-off. Optimism over SpaceX’s latest quarterly results lifted sentiment towards AI infrastructure investment, although concerns remain about whether heavy spending in the sector can generate sustainable profits.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 08:35 WIB
EU sets US$224,500 in aid to tackle drought in Indonesia
The European Union has allocated US$224,500 to support the Indonesian Red Cross in delivering clean water, hygiene assistance and health supplies to around 200,000 people in drought- and wildfire-affected areas. The aid comes as prolonged dry conditions and delayed monsoon rains heighten water shortages and public-health risks, with BMKG warning that El Niño conditions may persist into early 2027.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 08:34 WIB
Ganjar Urges President Prabowo to Declare Forest and Land Fires a National Disaster
Ganjar Pranowo has urged President Prabowo Subianto to declare the escalating forest and land fires a national disaster, citing cross-border haze, health impacts on millions and estimated losses exceeding Rp123 trillion. He says national status would enable a coordinated mobilisation of resources, while warning that lasting prevention depends on consistent law enforcement rather than reactive firefighting.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 08:34 WIB
Central Kalimantan Governor Distributes 1,200 Food Aid Packages to Transport Workers
Central Kalimantan Governor Agustiar Sabran has distributed 1,200 food aid packages to people working in transport services to help ease the cost of daily needs for them and their families. The provincial government says the assistance recognises transport workers’ contribution to mobility and the regional economy, with recipients calling for support to continue reaching informal-sector workers.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 08:34 WIB
Bromo Wildfire Death Toll Rises to Five as Victim Dies While Receiving Treatment
The death toll from a wildfire in the Mount Bromo area of East Java has risen to five after Munawi, a member of the Forest Ranger Partner Community, died while receiving intensive care. Another injured victim, Suraji, remains in an unstable condition, following a blaze that left six people trapped.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 08:32 WIB
Ocean Sciences Completes First Commercial Sale of 25 Tonnes of Spinosum Seaweed
Ocean Sciences’ Indonesian subsidiary has received an order from a long-standing Chinese customer for 25 metric tonnes of Spinosum seaweed, marking the company’s first commercial sale of the product. The shipment has arrived at Xiamen Port and awaits customs clearance; the sale expands the company’s Indonesian trading business into the iota-carrageenan market, alongside its existing Cottonii trade.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 08:32 WIB
Child Has Taken Fake Vitamins: What Should Parents Do?
Police have uncovered an illegal factory producing counterfeit Apialys children’s syrup vitamins, which were allegedly sold online across Indonesia since 2021. An IPB University doctor advises parents to stop giving the product and seek medical advice, noting that counterfeit health products may contain incorrect or dangerous ingredients and may cause no immediate symptoms.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 08:32 WIB
Yogyakarta Weather Today: No Chance of Rain
BMKG’s Yogyakarta office forecasts no rain across the Special Region of Yogyakarta on Wednesday, with conditions ranging from partly cloudy to cloudy. Areas around the slopes of Mount Merapi may become cloudier and misty from the afternoon.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 08:31 WIB
BI Rate Announcement to Come Earlier: Check the Schedule
Bank Indonesia has moved the announcement and press conference for the October 2026 monthly Board of Governors meeting to 1.30pm WIB, 30 minutes earlier than usual. The timing change is due solely to the Governor’s official schedule, while markets will be watching the decision amid rupiah pressure and uncertainty over US Federal Reserve policy.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 08:30 WIB
Gerindra Legislator Distributes Aid to Ketapang Residents Affected by Forest and Land Fires
Gerindra legislator Yuliansyah distributed 2,000 food and health-aid packages across 20 locations in Ketapang, West Kalimantan, where residents are affected by smoke from forest and land fires. The party also provided the local disaster management agency with masks, vitamins and protective goggles to help mitigate health risks while the haze persists.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 08:30 WIB
India’s Jio IPO opens for public bids in record US$3.2 billion sale
Jio Platforms has opened public bidding for a US$3.2 billion IPO, India’s largest share sale to date, valuing the company at up to US$108.3 billion. The offering will test investor appetite amid subdued markets and heightened scrutiny of AI-related firms, while giving retail investors, employees and Reliance shareholders access to the listing.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 08:27 WIB
Jakarta to Hold Simultaneous Earthquake Drill to Prepare for Potential Disasters
Jakarta’s provincial government will hold a city-wide earthquake drill on 21 October at 10am, following a 2026 instruction from the Regional Secretary. The exercise will take place in government offices, sub-district and urban-village offices, regional-owned enterprises and schools, with the aim of improving public readiness and knowledge of evacuation procedures.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 08:26 WIB
SCG’s Waste Management Innovation Wins ESG Now Awards 2026
SCG has received the Waste Management Innovation award at Republika’s ESG Now Awards 2026 for converting waste into alternative fuel and advancing a circular economy with government and community partners. Its RDF facility in Sukabumi has processed more than 91,000 tonnes of waste, while a community programme has engaged 1,600 people and collected over 54,000 kilograms for use in cement production.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 08:26 WIB
AICX 2026 Brings Together 600 Participants to Examine AI Challenges and Cyber Threats in Indonesia
More than 600 participants gathered at AICX 2026 in Bali to discuss the intersection of artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and quantum technology, with speakers from government, business and academia. The forum highlighted the need for cybersecurity-led AI adoption, stronger digital skills and closer cooperation to bolster Indonesia’s digital resilience and sovereignty.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 08:25 WIB
Coal Prices Fall After Surge, but Plenty of Good News Lies Ahead
Coal prices fell 1.6% on Tuesday, ending a three-day rally, but Fitch Ratings expects Asian thermal coal prices to remain elevated as demand rises and supply tightens. Lower Chinese output, uncertainty over Indonesian exports and stronger buying from Japan and South Korea are supporting the market, while China has sharply increased imports from Australia.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 08:24 WIB
Ahead of Santri Day, Pagar Nusa and DPN to Equip 2,000 Cadres with Legal Training
Pagar Nusa has partnered with the National Advocates Council of Indonesia to offer Special Advocate Professional Education (PKPA) scholarships to 2,000 cadres. Selected high-achieving participants may receive further support through the advocate examination and oath-taking process, as the organisations seek to strengthen legal assistance for communities with limited access to justice.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 08:20 WIB
Two Years of Prabowo’s Leadership: Rp3,923 Trillion in Investment Creates 5.49 Million Jobs
Indonesia recorded Rp3,923.2 trillion in investment between October 2024 and September 2026, equivalent to 30.1% of the investment required to meet the 2025–2029 national target. The investment supported nearly 5.49 million jobs, with capital distributed slightly more heavily outside Java; the government says improving the investment climate is key to driving industrialisation.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 08:20 WIB
Indonesia’s Downstream Exports Could Reach Rp900 Trillion
Indonesia’s National Economic Council estimates exports of downstream nickel, aluminium and lithium-battery components could reach US$50 billion this year, up nearly 45% from 2024. The council says aluminium exports alone may rise to US$7–7.2 billion, with future investment in new smelters potentially lifting them to US$10 billion.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 08:19 WIB
Bandung City Council Urges Disaster Awareness Campaigns to Reflect Local Risks
A Bandung City Council member has urged the city’s disaster management agency to tailor public education to the hazards faced in each area, rather than focusing primarily on floods. The proposal includes practical guidance on earthquake preparedness, emergency kits and closer cooperation with schools and community groups to strengthen everyday readiness.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 08:17 WIB
Religious Affairs Ministry to Develop Entrepreneurship Curriculum for Islamic Senior Schools and Pesantren
The Religious Affairs Ministry and the Coordinating Ministry for Community Empowerment plan to introduce a structured empowerment curriculum for students at Islamic senior secondary schools (madrasah aliyah) and pesantren. Aimed particularly at institutions serving students from lower-income households, the programme is intended to prepare graduates for employment or self-employment and support local economic development.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 08:17 WIB
Police: 33 West Kalimantan Land and Forest Fire Cases Involve Corporations
West Kalimantan Police are investigating 101 forest and land fire cases, including 33 involving corporations and 41 involving individuals. Of the total, 56 cases have been completed through the transfer of suspects and evidence to prosecutors, while the remaining investigations continue.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 08:15 WIB
Indonesia’s Downstreaming Exports Forecast to Reach US$50bn, with Aluminium Set to Surge
Indonesia’s National Economic Council forecasts exports of downstream products—including nickel, aluminium and lithium battery components—to reach about US$50 billion in 2026, nearly 45% above the 2024 total. Aluminium exports alone could rise to US$7bn–US$7.2bn in 2026 and potentially exceed US$10bn as new smelter investments come on stream.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 08:14 WIB
BRIN Reveals Origin of Mysterious Metal Object in Central Kalimantan Palm Oil Plantation: Chinese Rocket Debris
BRIN says a large metal object found at a palm oil plantation in Kotawaringin Timur, Central Kalimantan, is debris from China’s ZhuQue-2E rocket, including part of its body and a fuel tank. The agency says the fragments fell across multiple locations and that the precise time and place of space debris re-entry cannot be predicted, although its orbital path can be tracked.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 08:12 WIB
One scan, but stay alert
Surabaya is reviewing QR-code stickers displayed at small-business stalls after users reported being directed to different destinations depending on the scanning app. City officials say the stickers promote the Si-Boyo shopping platform rather than facilitate QRIS payments, but the incident underscores the need for technical checks and for consumers to verify payment recipients before confirming transactions.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 08:09 WIB
Brunei Hosts ASEAN Meeting to Strengthen MSME Development
Brunei hosted the 22nd ASEAN Coordinating Committee on Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises meeting, bringing together member states, the ASEAN Secretariat and partner organisations. Brunei said regional cooperation should help MSMEs reach new markets and connect with buyers and supply-chain partners, while supporting a more integrated, inclusive and resilient ASEAN economy.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 08:07 WIB
Sukoharjo Pork Noodle Stall Arson Suspect Is Former Terrorism Convict
Police say the suspect arrested over the burning of the Mi dan Babi Tepi Sawah food stall in Sukoharjo is a former terrorism convict who was involved in a 2016 case in Jakarta. Authorities are investigating his background and whether others were involved; police also say he attacked officers with a samurai sword during his arrest and was shot with rubber bullets.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 08:07 WIB
Police Bust Multi-Billion-Rupiah Lottery Gambling Business in Central Java After 12 Years
Central Java Police have dismantled an illegal lottery-gambling operation that had allegedly been running since 2014 across Demak, Grobogan and Semarang, arresting ten suspects. Authorities seized gambling materials and cash, and froze bank accounts containing more than Rp2.4 billion; the suspects face up to nine years in prison and a Rp2 billion fine.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 08:06 WIB
Volatile Financial Markets: OCBC Urges Clients to Review Their Portfolios
OCBC is urging clients to review their investment portfolios regularly amid financial-market volatility, ensuring that allocations remain aligned with their risk tolerance, liquidity needs and financial goals. The bank says market swings can create opportunities as well as risks, while its wealth-management business has grown at a 29 per cent CAGR since 2022, with assets under management exceeding Rp120 trillion.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 08:05 WIB
Chinese Nickel Producers Prepare Production Cuts in Indonesia as Prices and Costs Come Under Pressure
Major Chinese nickel producers are expected to discuss a coordinated production cut of around 30% at their Indonesian facilities, particularly high-pressure acid leaching plants, as falling metal prices and rising operating costs squeeze margins. Tighter Indonesian mining quotas, higher benchmark ore prices, soaring sulphur costs and drought-related water shortages are adding to the pressure, with any cut potentially affecting refined nickel supply and smelter utilisation.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 08:05 WIB
DSN MUI Hopes Danantara Syariah Will Be Established Next Year
The National Sharia Council of the Indonesian Ulema Council (DSN MUI) hopes a dedicated Danantara Syariah holding can be established in 2027 to coordinate sharia-compliant businesses across the state investment superholding. DSN MUI says no new law or separate entity is needed, but the proposal remains under discussion and depends on Danantara’s leadership and presidential approval.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 08:04 WIB
1,400 Years Ago, the Quran Suggested the Earth Is Round, Not Flat, Challenging Atheist Arguments
The article argues that Quranic verses, including one describing the Earth as spread out, are compatible with a spherical Earth and says this understanding predates modern astronomical findings. Citing Sheikh Muhammad Ash-Shalabi, it interprets the apparent flatness of the Earth's surface as a consequence of its curvature, although the provided text ends before presenting the other verses it introduces.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 08:02 WIB
Dropped E-Toll Card Leads to Electric Car Pile-Up on Ancol Toll Road
A Wuling Binguo EV crashed into a stationary container truck and a TransJakarta bus on the Wiyoto Wiyono Toll Road after its driver became distracted while reaching for a dropped e-toll card. The driver was injured and taken to hospital, while all three vehicles were damaged and the collision caused temporary congestion.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 08:01 WIB
Hundreds of Students in Cirebon Suspected of MBG Food Poisoning; Provider Suspended
Around 100 students in Cirebon are suspected to have suffered food poisoning after eating meals supplied through the government’s Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. The local nutrition service has suspended the provider while authorities coordinate with hospitals and local government to assess cases and ensure those affected receive treatment.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 08:00 WIB
Study finds differing links between ultra-processed foods and bowel cancer risk
A study of more than 460,000 US adults found that ultra-processed meat products were associated with a higher risk of bowel cancer, while some ultra-processed foods containing whole grains, fibre, dairy and calcium were associated with lower risk. Replacing 10 per cent of ultra-processed food intake with an equal weight of minimally processed foods was linked to a 2 per cent reduction in incidence, underscoring the importance of overall diet quality.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 08:00 WIB
This Is the World’s Happiest Country, Despite Tax Rates of Nearly 60%
Finland applies a progressive tax rate of up to 56.95% to its highest earners, yet it has topped the World Happiness Report for the ninth consecutive year. A Finnish tax professor says publicly funded education, healthcare and other social benefits help explain why residents accept high taxes and report high levels of well-being.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 08:00 WIB
Bank Jakarta Strengthens Financial Governance and Risk Management
Bank Jakarta says sound financial planning, transparent governance and effective risk management are central to its business transformation and sustainable growth. The lender’s finance director and the bank received awards at the Indonesia Awards 2026, including recognition for innovative CFO leadership and brand popularity among regional development banks.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 08:00 WIB
Bandung Students Voice Criticism of Prabowo-Gibran Government’s Two-Year Record
Hundreds of students demonstrated outside the West Java Regional House of Representatives in Bandung on the second anniversary of President Prabowo Subianto and Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s administration. They criticised government policies and raised concerns including forest and land fires, urging the government to address issues affecting the public and the environment more seriously.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 08:00 WIB
DEN Study Finds MBG Recipients Miss School Less Often Than Non-recipients
A National Economic Council (DEN) study found that students receiving the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme are less likely to be absent, with the strongest difference among children from the poorest households. The council also reported that students’ enthusiasm for learning is associated with meal quality and urged the government to prioritise poorer families and underserved rural and 3T regions in distributing the programme.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 07:59 WIB
From Campus to Making an Impact: UMI Engineering Professional Programme Alumnus Khairi Fahrizal Leads Bengkalis Investment and One-Stop Integrated Services Office
Khairi Fahrizal, an alumnus of Universitas Muslim Indonesia’s Engineering Professional Programme, has led Bengkalis Regency’s Investment and One-Stop Integrated Services Office since March 2026. His career spanning infrastructure, spatial planning and regional economic coordination is now being applied to investment facilitation, business licensing and public services.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 07:58 WIB
Often Stressed at Work? Try These Six Ways to Cope
Workplace stress can stem from toxic environments, excessive workloads and low pay, and may harm workers’ health if left unaddressed. The article offers practical steps including identifying stressors, clarifying work priorities, supporting mental and physical wellbeing, and setting boundaries between work and personal life.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 07:58 WIB
France Tightens Security, Extending Curfews to Several Areas
French authorities have extended curfews and protest bans in several cities following violence and looting during nationwide demonstrations against the rising cost of living. Indonesia’s Foreign Ministry says it is monitoring the safety of Indonesians in Europe, with no Indonesians reported among those involved in the Paris demonstrations.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 07:57 WIB
Government Policies Create New Opportunities in Indonesia’s Property Market
JLL says geopolitical shifts, supply-chain diversification, infrastructure investment and sustainability standards are reshaping Southeast Asia’s property sector and widening opportunities beyond Jakarta and traditional asset classes. In Indonesia, special economic zones and infrastructure development are drawing demand for healthcare, data centres, offices, retail and hospitality across emerging economic centres.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 07:55 WIB
Subsidised Fuel Prices to Be Maintained Until Year-End, with Danantara Involved
The government is considering fiscal strategies with the Finance Ministry and BP Danantara to keep subsidised fuel prices stable through the end of 2026 without undermining fiscal sustainability. It is also reviewing longer-term energy subsidy policy to improve targeting, though officials have not disclosed the measures, Danantara’s role or the required budget.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 07:50 WIB
Manpower Ministry to hold InaSkills to identify national skills talent
The Manpower Ministry will hold the Indonesia Skills Competition (InaSkills) 2026 from 26 to 31 October, with 90 participants competing across five skills categories and one exhibition category. The event is part of a national talent-development pathway, with winners eligible for further training and selection for regional and international WorldSkills competitions.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 07:50 WIB
US Bans Civilian Government Agencies from Using Chinese AI as Security Fears Grow
The US Department of Homeland Security has barred civilian government agencies from using DeepSeek and other Chinese third-party services, citing security risks and the potential transfer of sensitive data to China. The move adds to existing restrictions on the AI model and comes as US regulators consider tighter controls on Chinese-made technology, including devices tested for use in the country.