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Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 07:49 WIB
SAR Team Evacuates 460 People from KMP Batumandi; 11 Taken to Hospital
A joint search and rescue operation evacuated all 460 passengers and crew from the ferry KMP Batumandi after a fire broke out in its engine room near Merak Port, Banten. Everyone was brought to safety, although 11 people required further medical treatment at Krakatau Medika Hospital in Cilegon; the response involved 18 vessels and supporting units.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 07:49 WIB
BI Interest Rate Expected to Remain at 5.75% Amid Rupiah Pressure
The University of Indonesia’s LPEM FEB UI expects Bank Indonesia to hold its benchmark rate at 5.75% at its October 2026 policy meeting, while remaining prepared to tighten if pressure on the rupiah intensifies. The forecast reflects competing risks: rising domestic and US inflation and a weaker rupiah, alongside concerns that further monetary tightening could weigh on domestic demand.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 07:47 WIB
Jakarta’s Air Quality Unhealthy on Wednesday Morning
Jakarta’s air quality was rated unhealthy at 7am on Wednesday, with PM2.5 concentrations reaching 71 micrograms per cubic metre—14.2 times the World Health Organization’s annual guideline. Residents were advised to wear masks and limit outdoor exposure; Jakarta ranked fourth worst for air quality in Indonesia at the time.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 07:46 WIB
Frequently stressed at work? Here are six of the main causes
Workplace stress can stem from excessive demands, toxic workplace cultures, financial concerns, sudden changes and strained relationships with colleagues, not simply from having too much to do. Recognising these causes can help employees and employers address persistent stress before it harms wellbeing and productivity.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 07:44 WIB
JCI Rebounds, but Foreign Investors Continue Heavy Net Selling in These 10 Shares
Indonesia’s benchmark Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) surged 5.65% on Tuesday, 20 October 2026, with broad gains and trading value of Rp26.54 trillion. Despite the rally, foreign investors recorded net sales of Rp2.21 trillion, led by heavy selling in Bank Central Asia, Bank Rakyat Indonesia and Bank Mandiri shares.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 07:43 WIB
Khalid Basalamah Testifies: US$4,500 Hajj Fee, Then Another Rp18 Million per Pilgrim
Ustaz Khalid Basalamah told a Jakarta corruption trial that his travel company paid US$4,500 per pilgrim for expedited special Hajj visas, followed by an additional US$1,000 for 37 pilgrims. He said he returned US$554,500 to the KPK, while testimony also covered payments for VIP maktab facilities and money allegedly retained by an intermediary.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 07:41 WIB
Mobile Samsat services available at 14 locations across Greater Jakarta on Wednesday
The Jakarta Metro Police will operate mobile Samsat services at 14 locations across Jakarta, Depok, Tangerang and Bekasi on Wednesday to help motorists pay their annual vehicle tax. Visitors must bring the original identity card, vehicle ownership book and registration certificate, with photocopies; five-year registration renewals and number-plate replacements must be handled at a Samsat office.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 07:41 WIB
France Still in Flames: Police Deployed in Force as Curfews Imposed
France is extending curfews in Paris and other areas and promising a large-scale police deployment after riots linked to protests over the cost of living. The unrest has triggered arrests, political scrutiny of the security response and fresh pressure on a government already facing public anger over rising prices and public debt.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 07:40 WIB
Police Findings at the Scene of Mysterious Skeleton in Pajangan, Bantul
Police found a motorbike key, a lighter and black clothing near a human skeleton discovered in Pajangan, Bantul. The remains are believed to be those of a man who died around four to five months ago, but his identity has not been established; officers are asking families of missing people to contact them.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 07:36 WIB
What Is Social Jetlag? Its Effects on Health
Social jetlag occurs when people follow sharply different sleep schedules on workdays and days off, disrupting the body’s circadian rhythm. The article outlines potential consequences including poorer sleep, reduced alertness and cognitive performance, and increased risks of chronic illness and depression, highlighting the importance of a consistent sleep schedule.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 07:34 WIB
PHE Records US$15.42 Billion in Upstream Oil and Gas Investment in 2025
Upstream oil and gas contractors invested about US$15.42 billion in Indonesia in 2025, according to Pertamina Hulu Energi finance director Bayu Kusuma Dewanto. He highlighted the gap between national oil demand and domestic production, while SKK Migas said attractive fiscal incentives and greater legal and investment certainty are needed to turn the country’s largely untapped basin potential into production.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 07:33 WIB
Capital Market Turmoil: BNI and BTN Join the Share Buyback Trend
BNI is considering whether to extend its share buyback period, which is currently scheduled to end on 26 October 2026, but has not made a decision. The bank says any buyback will be conducted prudently, citing strong August results, including asset growth of 24.8% year on year and net profit of Rp14.33 trillion; despite the headline, the article provides no details about BTN’s plans.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 07:32 WIB
Pagar Nusa and DPN Indonesia Sign MoU for 2,000 Advocacy Profession Scholarships
Pagar Nusa and the National Lawyers Council (DPN) Indonesia have agreed to provide scholarships for 2,000 members to attend Indonesia’s Special Education for the Legal Profession (PKPA). The initiative aims to strengthen legal capacity across the organisation, with support potentially extending to the advocate qualification examination and court oath for selected participants.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 07:32 WIB
Family of Three Killed by Box Truck on Descent Along Magelang–Kopeng Road
A husband, wife and their four-year-old child died after a box truck collided with their motorbike on a downhill stretch of the Magelang–Kopeng road in Magelang Regency. Police said the truck driver may have lost concentration; a second motorcyclist survived, as did the truck driver, who was briefly trapped.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 07:31 WIB
Mobile Driving Licence Services Available at Five Locations in Jakarta on Wednesday
Jakarta’s mobile driving licence service will operate at five locations from 8am to 2pm on Wednesday, offering renewals for valid Class A and C licences. Applicants must bring the required identity and licence documents and pay the prescribed fees; expired licences require a new application at the Daan Mogot licensing office.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 07:30 WIB
Expert Explains the Difference Between Rats and Shrews, and Which Is More Dangerous
An IPB University expert says rats and house shrews differ in their physical characteristics, diet and habitats, with rats associated with diseases including plague, leptospirosis and hantavirus infection. While shrews are not known to carry the same diseases, both animals should be handled cautiously and kept out of homes through good hygiene and food storage.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 07:30 WIB
Rabies Vaccination Sites in Denpasar and What to Do If Bitten by a Rabies-Carrying Animal
Bali recorded 56,081 bites by rabies-transmitting animals through September 2026, including seven deaths, while Denpasar has designated 12 health facilities as Rabies Centres. The article lists selected vaccination and treatment locations and outlines prevention measures and urgent wound care, including seeking medical attention for possible rabies vaccination and serum.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 07:26 WIB
Often Struggle to Sleep? Six Causes of Insomnia to Know
Repeated difficulty sleeping can undermine sleep quality and disrupt daily life. Potential causes include mental health problems, an uncomfortable sleep environment and irregular schedules, as well as certain medicines, stimulants, alcohol, nicotine and underlying health conditions.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 07:25 WIB
Airlangga Denies Plans to Distribute Free Mobile Phones for Digital Social Assistance
Coordinating Economic Affairs Minister Airlangga Hartarto says the government has never discussed distributing free mobile phones to support the digital delivery of social assistance, contradicting a proposal previously described by presidential special envoy Hashim Djojohadikusumo. Airlangga said a separate plan to automatically open free bank accounts for Indonesian citizens aged 17 and over remains targeted for the fourth quarter of 2026, with regulations being prepared.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 07:24 WIB
Religious Affairs Ministry Urges Ethical Conduct in Preaching After Habib Alwi Assegaf’s Sermon Goes Viral
The Religious Affairs Ministry has urged preachers to uphold ethical standards and avoid remarks that demean or hurt others, following criticism of a viral sermon by Habib Alwi bin Abdurrahman Assegaf. The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) has called for a boycott, while the ministry says it respects the council’s role and hopes religious gatherings remain educational and respectful spaces.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 07:23 WIB
Lorry Crashes into TransJakarta Busway Barrier on Jalan S. Parman, Causing Traffic and Delays
A lorry struck a TransJakarta busway barrier on Jalan S. Parman in West Jakarta, causing congestion as authorities worked to clear the scene. The disruption also delayed several TransJakarta routes, including corridors 9 and 1W, with the operator apologising to passengers.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 07:16 WIB
Thohir Family Buys Rp1 Billion Worth of Alamtri (ADRO) Shares
PT Trinuraga Thohir, the Thohir family’s investment company, purchased 470,000 shares in Alamtri Resources Indonesia for about Rp1.001 billion on 19 October 2026. The acquisition increased its voting stake from 0.727% to 0.729%; the company is a direct shareholder but is not a controlling shareholder.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 07:16 WIB
Immigration Reveals Nusron Wahid’s Trips to Singapore and Malaysia
Indonesia’s Directorate General of Immigration says Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning Minister Nusron Wahid travelled to Singapore via Batam and later went to Malaysia for official duties. The trips coincided with a scheduled questioning by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) in a bribery investigation, and Immigration says it has received no request to prevent him from travelling abroad.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 07:15 WIB
Yesterday: Wildfire Suppression and the Evacuation of KM Batumandi Passengers
Authorities reported that 454.25 hectares of land affected by wildfires across six priority provinces had been extinguished by 19 October, while 570.08 hectares remained under suppression and cooling operations. The day’s other developments included the use of dry ice in weather-modification operations to disperse haze, a five-kilometre exclusion zone around Anak Krakatau after repeated eruptions, and the safe evacuation of all passengers from the burning KM Batumandi.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 07:14 WIB
Building a Foundation for Governance and Maintaining Investor Confidence
Indonesia’s sovereign wealth fund, the Indonesia Investment Authority (INA), has deployed IDR 74.5 trillion alongside investment partners and helped attract IDR 41.2 trillion in foreign direct investment by 2025. Its governance score rose to 92 per cent in Global SWF’s 2026 assessment, but experts say currency volatility, regulatory uncertainty and geopolitical risks make agility and continued good governance essential to sustaining investor confidence.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 07:11 WIB
Raffi Ahmad and Boy Thohir Join Forces to Inject Capital into VISI-Listed Company
PT Satu Visi Putra Tbk (VISI) will raise capital through a private placement of 120.7 million new shares at Rp994 apiece, following approval from independent shareholders. The shares will be subscribed by investment vehicles linked to Raffi Ahmad and the Thohir family, alongside Atlas Raya Abadi; the transaction will dilute the public’s stake but leave the company’s authorised capital unchanged.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 07:10 WIB
Wednesday: BMKG Warns of Light to Heavy Rain in Most Major Indonesian Cities
Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) forecasts rain across many major cities on Wednesday, with Banda Aceh and Tanjung Selor among the locations at risk of very heavy rain, lightning and strong winds. It also forecasts high waves in several sea areas and warns of possible tidal flooding along parts of the coasts of Sumatra, Java and Kalimantan.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 07:10 WIB
Saudi Arabia Reportedly Offered to Pay Any Amount to Free OpenAI Spy Suspect from Prison
Federal prosecutors say former OpenAI engineer Abdulrahman Alfozan allegedly planted a recording device in the company’s executive conference room and maintained ties with prominent Saudi figures. A Saudi military official reportedly paid for his family’s one-way flights to Saudi Arabia, while the Saudi consulate in Los Angeles offered to post any amount of bail; a judge rejected the offer, citing the risk that Alfozan might flee abroad.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 07:06 WIB
Former Trade Minister Lutfi Accuses Singapore of Using MSCI to Threaten Downgrade of Indonesia’s Stock Market
Former minister Muhammad Lutfi alleges that Singapore-based investment institutions are influencing MSCI’s review of Indonesia’s market classification to trigger a sell-off and buy Indonesian assets cheaply, linking the pressure to Jakarta’s efforts to curb tax avoidance and transfer pricing. The Indonesia Stock Exchange says it is concentrating on technical reforms and maintains that global index providers act independently; MSCI is expected to announce its decision by June 2027.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 07:05 WIB
Gold Prices Plunge as Silver Soars: What Is Behind the Divergence?
Gold extended its losses as investors weighed the prospect of higher US interest rates ahead of the Federal Reserve’s policy meeting, with Treasury securities looking increasingly attractive as an alternative. Markets are pricing in a strong chance of a rate rise in December, while investors await US PCE inflation data; gold has fallen about 26% from its January record high.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 07:04 WIB
Eight Facts About the Ferry Fire at Merak Port
The KMP Batumandi caught fire in the waters near Merak Port while approaching its berth, prompting the evacuation of all 420 passengers and crew; no deaths were reported. Authorities say some passengers were injured and are investigating the cause, while accounts from survivors describe explosions, heavy smoke and assistance from local fishermen.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 07:00 WIB
Land Acquisition for Lembar–Kayangan Road Project to Begin Next Year
West Nusa Tenggara is targeting next year for land acquisition for the Rp3.5 trillion Lembar–Kayangan port-to-port road project, after route adjustments delayed finalisation of the alignment. The project’s detailed engineering design and environmental impact assessment are expected to be completed by the end of this year; the provincial government aims to connect the road by 2029, though it may not be fully completed.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 07:00 WIB
Behind the Fatigue of the Night, Commuter Trains Take Workers Home
Jakarta’s Commuter Line remains a vital link for workers returning home after long shifts, carrying passengers from offices, shops and industrial areas through the evening. The article captures the pressures of late-night travel, including train schedules and onward connections, and the shared journey home across the capital and its surrounding cities.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 07:00 WIB
Forest and Land-Fire Volunteers Seek Operational Support as Meeting with Forestry Minister Focuses on Solutions
Volunteers fighting forest and land fires in Tanjung Puting National Park have raised logistical, operational funding and coordination needs with Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni. The discussion included a proposed flying camp and improved coordination, while officials were asked to identify volunteers’ operational requirements; volunteers stressed that firefighting and wildlife rescue must remain the priority.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 06:58 WIB
JPPI Urges Government to Review Plan to Hold Pupils Back a Year
The Indonesian Education Monitoring Network (JPPI) has called on the government to thoroughly assess a proposed policy allowing pupils to repeat a year, planned for the 2027/2028 academic year. JPPI says holding pupils back will not address learning gaps unless shortcomings in teaching, school resources and the education system are also tackled, and urges early support, transparent promotion criteria and sustained communication with parents.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 06:56 WIB
Yesterday: Khalid Basalamah Testifies as BNPB Office Is Searched
ANTARA’s roundup of legal news from Tuesday, 20 October, highlights Khalid Basalamah’s appearance as a witness in the case involving former religious affairs minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas and the Corruption Eradication Commission’s searches at the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB). It also reports the KPK’s confidence in the government’s support for anti-corruption efforts, the evacuation of passengers from a burning ferry in Merak, and two new suspects in an alleged bribery case in Rejang Lebong.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 06:55 WIB
Yesterday: Final Tribute to Subagyo HS and Economic Meeting
President Prabowo Subianto paid his final respects to retired General Subagyo Hadi Siswoyo, while the State Secretariat conveyed the government’s condolences. Prabowo also summoned economic ministers, Bank Indonesia and the National Economic Council for a limited meeting; the roundup additionally covers territorial troops’ economic role and military support for weather-modification operations against fires in South Kalimantan.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 06:55 WIB
Luhut and Others Present Prabowo with Seven Recommendations for Indonesia’s Economy
The National Economic Council (DEN) has presented President Prabowo Subianto with seven recommendations spanning social assistance, the free nutritious meals programme, food security, industrial downstreaming, energy, forest-fire response and capital-market reform. Among its proposals, the DEN says a digital social-protection system will launch on 10 November and urges better targeting of assistance and preparation for El Niño and La Niña-related risks.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 06:54 WIB
PKS President Calls on Public Officials to Donate Part of Their Salaries to Help Forest-Fire Victims: “Are You Ready?”
PKS President Almuzzammil Yusuf has instructed the party’s public officials to set aside part of their salaries to support communities affected by forest and land fires. He also urged PKS offices to provide emergency health services and called on the forestry and environment ministries to accelerate response efforts and enforce the law against those responsible.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 06:54 WIB
From Europe to Singapore, Countries Move to Restrict Data Centres
Countries across Europe and the United States are tightening or proposing restrictions on data-centre construction as AI drives up electricity demand, strains grid capacity and raises environmental concerns. A StackPath report identifies 22 measures across 10 European countries, mostly targeting where facilities can be built and how they access constrained electricity, rather than imposing nationwide bans.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 06:52 WIB
Cloudy Weather and Staying Indoors: Do You Still Need to Wear Sunscreen?
Experts recommend daily sunscreen even on overcast days and when indoors, as UVA rays can pass through clouds and window glass and contribute to skin damage over time. The article also outlines how to apply broad-spectrum sunscreen and how often to reapply it.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 06:52 WIB
Key facts about the fire aboard the KMP Batumandi near Merak Port
A fire broke out aboard the passenger ferry KMP Batumandi in the Sunda Strait near Merak Port, prompting a multi-agency operation that evacuated all 460 passengers and crew safely. Eleven people received further medical treatment, while authorities investigate the suspected source of the fire and report that 18 vessels and supporting units took part in the response.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 06:50 WIB
Trump Urges Zelensky to Make a Deal with Russia
Donald Trump has urged Volodymyr Zelensky to reach an agreement with Russia, arguing Ukraine’s people may no longer be able to endure the war. His remarks come amid strained US-Ukraine relations and a renewed rapprochement with Moscow, while Kyiv insists it must be involved in any future talks about its fate.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 06:49 WIB
A recap of reports on Agnez Mo’s new film and EJAE’s wedding
ANTARA’s entertainment, lifestyle, technology and automotive roundup revisits Agnez Mo’s upcoming film role alongside Nicolas Cage and EJAE’s wedding in Seoul. It also covers dietary cholesterol advice, the Communications and Digital Minister’s call for greater platform accountability, and footage of a BYD Denza B8 travelling on three wheels.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 06:43 WIB
Turkey, Qatar, Pakistan and Indonesia Sign MoU to Strengthen Defence Industry
Turkey, Qatar, Pakistan and Indonesia are due to sign a memorandum of understanding in Doha to strengthen cooperation in the defence industry. The agreement will provide a framework for existing joint projects and reflects Turkey’s push to expand multilateral partnerships as it grows defence production and exports.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 06:42 WIB
Puan Calls for Review of Child Protection After Disabled Boy Dies Following Bullying
DPR Speaker Puan Maharani has urged a comprehensive review of child-protection measures after a 10-year-old boy with a disability died in Surabaya in an incident suspected to involve bullying and abuse. She called for more accessible reporting channels, psychological support and faster responses at local level, particularly for children who may struggle to communicate abuse.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 06:41 WIB
Six Health Benefits of Black Seed, from Immunity to Heart Health
Black seed (Nigella sativa) contains thymoquinone and other bioactive compounds associated with immune, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. The article outlines potential benefits ranging from blood-sugar and cardiovascular support to organ protection, while noting experimental findings on cancer cells; it presents black seed as a complementary measure rather than a substitute for medical care.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 06:40 WIB
DEN Urges Continuation of Indonesian Capital Market Reforms After Discussing MSCI with President
The National Economic Council (DEN) has urged the government to continue capital market reforms and strengthen regulatory enforcement following MSCI’s consideration of downgrading Indonesia from Emerging Market to Standalone Market status. MSCI cited concerns over investment accessibility, opaque share ownership and alleged coordinated trading; its final decision is due by 30 June 2027 after consultation with market participants.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 06:40 WIB
Astronomers Astonished to Discover a Green Star
Astronomers have identified a white dwarf, WD J1330+6435, whose atmosphere gives it a rare greenish glow, offering evidence of how elements such as sodium can alter a star’s apparent colour. A survey of 151 white dwarfs also found a range of colours, including a salmon-pink star whose hue is linked to carbon emerging from its interior.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 06:36 WIB
UNG Students Use Cuttlefish Bones to Make Hand Sanitiser
Students at Gorontalo State University have developed a spray hand sanitiser using chitosan extracted from cuttlefish bones, an underused fisheries by-product. Laboratory tests found that antibacterial activity against E. coli increased with higher chitosan concentrations, although further research and safety testing are needed before wider use.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 06:36 WIB
Five Testimonies by Khalid Basalamah in Hajj Quota Corruption Trial
Ustaz Khalid Basalamah testified that Uhud Tour paid a USD 4,500-per-pilgrim fee for accelerated special-hajj visas, along with further charges linked to places and services, and that he returned USD 554,500 to the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK). The testimony concerns alleged corruption in the allocation of additional hajj quotas in 2023–24, for which former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas and three others are on trial.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 06:34 WIB
Presidential Chief of Staff Listyo Backs Industrialisation Programme to Create Jobs
Presidential Chief of Staff Listyo Sigit Prabowo says the government is pressing ahead with industrialisation and downstream processing to foster new industries and create jobs. He also stressed the need to protect workers, develop skills and coordinate between the government, employers and workers so industrial growth improves livelihoods and strengthens Indonesia’s competitiveness.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 06:33 WIB
Luhut Proposes That State Losses Should Not Constitute Corruption
President Prabowo Subianto has approved the National Economic Council’s proposal to align Indonesia’s legal definition of corruption with the UN Convention against Corruption (UNCAC). DEN chair Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan said UNCAC focuses largely on bribery and does not define corruption in terms of state losses, arguing that the state-loss provision can hamper business activity.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 06:30 WIB
National Santri Day 2026: History, Theme and Logo Philosophy
National Santri Day, observed on 22 October, recognises the role of Islamic students, clerics and pesantren in Indonesia’s national life and recalls the 1945 Jihad Resolution. The 2026 theme, “Santri Strengthen the Nation, Advancing a Golden Indonesia”, highlights their potential contributions to human development, the economy and technology, while the logo’s interwoven design symbolises unity and shared purpose.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 06:27 WIB
Muhammadiyah: Thoroughly Investigate Suspected Violations Behind Forest and Land Fires
Muhammadiyah has urged law enforcement to investigate suspected arson, negligence and other violations linked to forest and land fires, including any involvement by officials or security personnel. The organisation also called for stronger, coordinated prevention and emergency response, arguing that public safety and environmental sustainability must take priority over narrow economic and political interests.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 06:27 WIB
Foreign Investment at Rp777.8 Trillion, Outpaces Domestic Capital Through September 2026
Indonesia recorded Rp1,539.2 trillion in investment from January to September 2026, with foreign investment slightly exceeding domestic investment and accounting for 50.5 per cent of the total. The nine-month figure reached 75.4 per cent of the annual target and supported reported employment absorption of more than 2.19 million workers; the final quarter will be crucial to meeting the 2026 goal.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 06:26 WIB
Realising a Digital Transformation That Is ‘Connected, Growing and Protected’
Indonesia is framing its national digital transformation around connectivity, economic growth and online safety, with Communications and Digital Minister Meutya Hafid outlining the priorities at Bali Tech Week 2026. The government reports internet access for about 235 million people and plans to raise fixed broadband speeds to 100 Mbps by 2029, while using new spectrum allocations and electricity infrastructure to extend coverage and narrow regional disparities.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 06:25 WIB
Rescue Mission for the JCI Begins to Pay Off, and the Hot Potato Is Now in BI’s Hands
Indonesia’s stock market rebounded sharply after a two-day sell-off triggered by MSCI’s warning over the country’s market classification, while the rupiah also strengthened. Investors now await Bank Indonesia’s rate decision, with most surveyed institutions expecting a 25-basis-point rise; Danantara’s proposed purchases of state-owned shares and continuing market reforms are also in focus.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 06:24 WIB
All 420 Passengers Safe After KMP Batumandi Fire; Cause Under Investigation
All 420 passengers aboard the KMP Batumandi were evacuated after the vessel caught fire near Merak Port, with no fatalities reported and some injured passengers taken for medical treatment. Authorities are investigating the cause, while Banten’s governor praised local fishermen and residents for helping with the evacuation.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 06:15 WIB
Tourist Bus Wrecked in Lorry Collision, 13 Dead
A collision between a lorry and a tourist bus on the Cairo–Asyut road in Egypt killed 13 people and injured 34. Authorities are investigating the cause, while the crash highlights the country’s persistent road-safety problems.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 06:11 WIB
BPBD Detects 579 Forest and Land Fire Hotspots in South Sumatra, with OKI the Worst Affected
South Sumatra’s disaster management agency detected 579 forest and land fire hotspots, the lowest monthly figure so far, with Ogan Komering Ilir (OKI) recording the most. Of the total, 343 were on peatland and 236 on mineral land, while OKI and Banyuasin accounted for the largest concentrations.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 06:11 WIB
Through AMTF 2026, Astindo Offers Muslim-Friendly Travel Options to Destinations Worldwide
Astindo’s Muslim Friendly Travel Fair 2026 will run in Jakarta from 16 to 18 October, connecting travellers with travel agents and packages to destinations in Indonesia and abroad. The event responds to a fast-growing global Muslim travel market and aims to promote more inclusive, reliable services, including halal food, prayer facilities and travel support.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 06:07 WIB
Gunungkidul Deputy Regent Bluntly Rejects Rumours of Rift with Regent Endah
Gunungkidul Deputy Regent Joko Parwoto has denied rumours that his relationship with Regent Endah Subekti Kuntariningsih has deteriorated, saying they communicate well and work together. The speculation intensified after Joko missed events marking the regency’s anniversary; local legislative and political figures had described the pair as rarely appearing together and urged unity in government.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 06:06 WIB
Implementing a Constitutional Economy, Syarikat Islam Ready to Fight Liberal Capitalist System
Syarikat Islam (SI) has elected Ferry Juliantono as president of its executive body and Hamdan Zoelva as chair of its Syuro Council for 2026–2031. Ferry says SI will champion a constitutional economic model under President Prabowo, opposing liberal capitalism and building on the cooperative legacy established by HOS Tjokroaminoto to improve the economic position of the Muslim community and indigenous Indonesians.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 06:05 WIB
Houthi Missiles Threaten Saudi Arabia as Britain Deploys Fighter Jets
Britain will deploy Typhoon fighters on a defensive air-protection mission over Saudi Arabia following Houthi attacks on Riyadh’s airport and Saudi Aramco facilities. The deployment, alongside transport aircraft and military advisers, comes amid renewed fighting in Yemen and heightened regional tensions, which London says could also affect its economy and civilian populations.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 06:03 WIB
DPR Urges Government Not to Stay Silent over Singapore’s Stance on Forest and Land Fires
A House of Representatives commission deputy chair has urged the Indonesian government to respond firmly to Singapore’s actions against companies suspected of contributing to transboundary haze, while calling for dialogue based on evidence. Former trade minister Muhammad Lutfi has also questioned Singapore’s accountability, noting links between some of the companies and Singapore-listed conglomerates as Singapore’s National Environment Agency issues notices to 10 Indonesian firms.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 06:02 WIB
Social Assistance to Be Paid in Cash Transfers Instead of Goods
Indonesia plans to shift social assistance and subsidies towards cash transfers, with a national digitalisation programme due to be officially launched on 10 November 2026. A pilot covering 514 districts and cities reportedly reduced exclusion errors in Bali by 24.1 per cent, with officials saying digital systems could improve transparency and targeting.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 06:00 WIB
Reckless Pajero Driver Kills Junior High School Student in Mampang Prapatan
A Mitsubishi Pajero Sport allegedly travelling at high speed struck and killed a 14-year-old student and hit two other cars in South Jakarta. Police have detained the driver, who tested negative for narcotics, while investigating the crash and a reported discovery of suspected synthetic tobacco in the vehicle.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 06:00 WIB
Nusron Wahid’s Trail in Malaysia While He Missed KPK Summons
Anti-corruption activist Boyamin Saiman says ATR/BPN Minister Nusron Wahid travelled from Jakarta to Batam, Singapore and Johor Bahru while failing to attend a KPK witness examination in a bribery investigation. KPK says it is considering whether to compel his attendance; the case involves alleged bribery over land-use rights and other receipts at the ministry, with eight people already named as suspects.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 06:00 WIB
iPhone Duo Set for Release: How to Pre-order and Where to Buy in Denpasar
Apple is reportedly set to launch its first foldable iPhone in Indonesia on 30 October 2026, with pre-orders opening a week earlier. The article outlines the device’s claimed specifications and US prices, and lists Denpasar retailers that may handle orders or collection; Indonesian pricing and stock availability have yet to be confirmed.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 06:00 WIB
Strategic Investment Should Be Measured by Economic Impact, Not Just Returns
Danantara Development Management Fund is developing a framework to assess strategic investments by their long-term contributions to growth, jobs, industrial capacity and social outcomes, rather than financial returns alone. Its proposed model will track impacts over time while weighing funding sources, macroeconomic stability and the role of catalytic capital.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 05:57 WIB
Israeli Attacks Kill Seven Gaza Residents
Israeli attacks killed at least seven Palestinians across the Gaza Strip on Tuesday, while others were wounded in artillery strikes, gunfire and drone attacks. Gaza’s hospitals are also confronting a recurring malnutrition crisis: health authorities report 466 hunger- and malnutrition-related deaths since 2024, including 157 children, and warn that shortages of food and medical supplies are putting more children at risk.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 05:55 WIB
Samarinda City Administration Tightens Monitoring of Chilli and Subsidised Fuel Supplies
Samarinda is stepping up coordination to address rising chilli prices and repeated queues for subsidised fuel, amid concerns over supply, inflation and alleged misuse. Officials reported that subsidised fuel demand has risen by 9.6 per cent while the 2026 East Kalimantan quota was cut to less than half of the amount requested.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 05:50 WIB
Prabowo receives DEN advice on MSCI as capital market reforms continue
President Prabowo Subianto has received recommendations from the National Economic Council (DEN) in response to MSCI’s proposal to reclassify Indonesia from an emerging market to a standalone market. DEN urged the government to continue capital market reforms and regulatory enforcement, while committing to provide the president with accurate economic data to support decision-making.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 05:48 WIB
France Deploys Military to Secure Demonstrations
France is preparing a large-scale security operation, including troops from Operation Sentinelle, ahead of further demonstrations following unrest over the rising cost of living. The government is also considering tighter restrictions on protests, while facing criticism over its response to previous violence and pressure to address the economic grievances driving public anger.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 05:43 WIB
Cirebon MBG Catering Unit Suspended After Hundreds of Pupils Suspected of Food Poisoning
A nutrition service unit supplying the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme in Cirebon has been suspended after around 100 beneficiaries, many of them schoolchildren, were suspected of food poisoning. Authorities are still compiling case numbers and coordinating with local government and hospitals to ensure those affected receive treatment.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 05:41 WIB
Protest at Tugu Tani: UI Student Executive Board Highlights Forest and Land Fire Response
Students and civil society groups protested in central Jakarta, raising concerns about welfare, justice and environmental issues. The University of Indonesia Student Executive Board (BEM UI) criticised the government’s handling of forest and land fires, citing the health and livelihood impacts of smoke, and presented a collection of studies on governance, rights, the economy and public services.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 05:37 WIB
Yesterday: KMP Batumandi fire and civil servant salary payments
Reports from 20 October covered a fire aboard the KMP Batumandi near Merak, government clarification that free mobile phones for social assistance recipients had never been discussed, and plans to strengthen the national shipping industry. They also outlined reforms to the Free Nutritious Meals programme and confirmed that civil servants’ salaries will continue to be paid through banks, not village cooperatives.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 05:35 WIB
South Kalimantan wins top award for export-service innovation from Trade Ministry
South Kalimantan has been named the top-performing region for innovation and creativity in issuing export documents at the Ministry of Trade’s 2026 IPSKA Awards, selected from 103 issuing agencies nationwide. The provincial government says the recognition supports efforts to improve exporter services and help raise regional exports from about US$10 billion in 2025 to US$11 billion in 2026.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 05:30 WIB
Millions of Unemployed People Caught Pretending to Go to Work
Millions of unemployed people in China are reportedly pretending to leave for work each day to conceal their joblessness from their families, as a worsening labour market, property crisis and AI-driven redundancies deepen economic pressure. The trend has gained widespread attention on social media, while analysts say it reflects both personal stigma and broader tensions around employment security and automation.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 05:28 WIB
Bekasi City Government Creates an Open, Collaborative Investment Ecosystem
Bekasi City is seeking to align investment growth with residents’ needs and regional development through its 2026 Bekasi Investment Gathering and a digital business-permit and partnership platform. Mayor Tri Adhianto Tjahyono said the city will hold the gathering regularly; an associated CSR auction raised Rp1.75 billion, while awards recognised companies’ compliance and contributions to local development.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 05:28 WIB
IRGC Hints at Targeting Hormuz Strait Internet Cables, Raising Global Concern
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has hinted that the seven major undersea internet cables crossing the Strait of Hormuz could become targets if tensions with the United States escalate. Qatar warned that any disruption would harm regional economies, including Iran, while experts noted that Tehran’s threats extend to data centres and other digital infrastructure.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 05:20 WIB
President to Launch Digital Social Protection Programme on 10 November, Promising Fairness for the People
President Prabowo Subianto is scheduled to launch the nationwide Digital Social Protection Programme on 10 November 2026, shifting assistance towards cash transfers for eligible recipients rather than subsidies for products. The programme has been piloted in all 514 districts and cities, with 11.5 million households registered and 775,000 agents helping people enrol.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 05:17 WIB
Seven Killed in Series of Israeli Strikes on Gaza
Seven people have been reported killed in Israeli strikes across the Gaza Strip, including in central Gaza, Jabalia, Gaza City and Khan Younis. Israel said one of those killed was a senior Hamas security official, while Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has pledged to continue targeting Hamas despite the ceasefire in place since October 2025.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 05:15 WIB
Wildfires on Four East Java Mountains Spread Close to Settlements and Residents’ Plantations
Wildfires continued to spread across four mountainous areas in East Java, with fires reported at Bromo, Sigiran, Arjuno-Welirang and the foothills of Argopuro. While most nearby communities have not been directly affected, flames have reached residents’ plantations and five people died during firefighting efforts at Bromo.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 05:15 WIB
Bojonggede Skybridge Escalators Out of Order and the Responsibility for Public Services
Repeated escalator failures at Bojonggede Station’s skybridge have exposed shortcomings in asset maintenance and the local government’s response to public complaints. The opinion argues that Bogor Regency must explain repair costs, review contractual obligations and provide accessible alternatives, while making routine maintenance—not viral complaints—the trigger for action.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 05:02 WIB
Discussing the Novel ‘Matahari di Atas Rantemario’: Political Conflict and Friendship
Andi Makmur Makka says his novel traces South Sulawesi fighters whose shared struggle for independence gave way to political division, amid the emergence of the Darul Islam/Indonesian Islamic Army (DI/TII) movement. Through the friendship between Bahar and Badillah, he seeks to preserve the memories of fighters who felt abandoned after independence and encourage public empathy for their experiences.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 05:00 WIB
Mystery Surrounds Rp250 Million from Nias NU Branch as KPK Probes Possible Link to NU Congress
Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has seized Rp250 million handed over by the Nias branch of Nahdlatul Ulama, and is investigating its origin and possible connection to alleged vote-buying ahead of NU’s 35th Congress. Investigators are also examining whether the money is linked to a separate alleged corruption case involving the Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency (ATR/BPN); it could be returned if no connection is established.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 05:00 WIB
Deadline for change: How APEC is accelerating Shenzhen’s makeover – and what could last
Shenzhen is accelerating upgrades to visitor services, cross-border transport and urban safety ahead of hosting the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting in November, including multilingual signage and payment support, a renovated border crossing and expanded underground inspections. Experts say practical improvements that support residents and businesses are more likely to last, while temporary security and traffic measures may fade; the lasting impact will depend on whether Shenzhen converts the summit-driven changes into enduring systems and attracts more international talent and business.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 04:59 WIB
Commentary: Apple’s iPhone factories will not make India the next China
India has expanded its role in electronics manufacturing, with local factories taking on more than final assembly and the gap between handset exports and component imports narrowing. However, domestic value addition remains limited and the industry relies heavily on public subsidies, raising doubts about whether the investment can create a durable manufacturing advantage or replicate China’s model.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 04:55 WIB
The IHSG’s Plunge: Lessons from Economic Recovery under Megawati
Indonesia’s benchmark IHSG fell 11.57% in one day after MSCI opened a consultation on potentially downgrading the country’s market classification, reviving concerns about investor confidence and policy credibility. The opinion piece compares the current shock with the 1998 crisis and argues that fiscal consolidation, institutional reforms and financial-sector restructuring under President Megawati helped restore stability and market confidence.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 04:44 WIB
Armed Group Attacks Buses in Niger, Killing 11
Gunmen attacked two buses travelling from the mining town of Arlit towards Agadez in northern Niger, killing at least 11 passengers and injuring several others. The assault highlights insecurity in a region used for trafficking and affected by armed groups and violence linked to illegal gold mining, despite being largely spared the jihadist violence seen elsewhere in the country.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 04:18 WIB
JCI Surges 5.65% as Foreign Investors Sell IDR 2.2 Trillion in Shares
Indonesia’s Jakarta Composite Index rose 5.65% on 20 October, supported by broad-based gains and a sharp rebound in large-cap banking and telecommunications shares, even as foreign investors recorded net sales of about IDR 2.2 trillion. The rally comes amid continuing uncertainty over MSCI’s proposed review of Indonesia’s market classification; authorities’ reform measures and sustained investor confidence will be crucial to whether the recovery lasts.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 04:15 WIB
Four East Java Mountains Affected by Wildfires, with Steep Terrain Hampering Firefighting
Wildfires are still burning across four mountain areas in East Java, where steep and inaccessible terrain is preventing ground crews from reaching some hotspots. Helicopter water-bombing support has not yet been secured because national disaster agency aircraft are focused on fires in Kalimantan and Sumatra; meanwhile, crews are creating firebreaks to keep the flames away from settlements and public facilities.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 04:03 WIB
Wildfire on the Slopes of Mount Lawu Spreads, Reaching 490 Hectares
The forest and land fire on the slopes of Mount Lawu in Central Java has spread across an estimated 490 hectares. Authorities are opening an additional post at Cetho Temple to protect residents’ water pipes and prevent the blaze from reaching tourist sites and settlements.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 03:37 WIB
Indonesia’s Downstream Investment Reaches IDR 480 Trillion in January–September 2026
Indonesia’s downstream investment totalled IDR 480 trillion in the first nine months of 2026, up 11.3 per cent year on year and representing about 31 per cent of national investment. Minerals dominated, led by nickel and bauxite, while 78 per cent of downstream investment was recorded outside Java; the government says it will continue prioritising higher-quality projects and job creation.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 03:33 WIB
Denmark Arrests Two Men Suspected of Espionage
Danish police have arrested and charged two men on suspicion of espionage in North Jutland; local broadcaster DR reported that the Russian-speaking suspects may have targeted drone-detection company MyDefence. The case is being handled in cooperation with intelligence services, amid heightened Danish vigilance over alleged Russian espionage.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 03:00 WIB
KPK Receives Rp250 Million from Nias NU Branch in Connection with ATR/BPN Corruption Case
Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has seized Rp250 million returned by the Nias branch of Nahdlatul Ulama (PCNU) while investigating whether the funds are linked to alleged corruption at the Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency (ATR/BPN), and to a recent NU congress. The money will be retained as evidence if investigators establish a connection to the case; otherwise, it will be returned to PCNU Nias. The KPK has named eight suspects in a broader bribery investigation involving land-use rights for PT Summarecon Agung and other receipts at ATR/BPN.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 03:00 WIB
MSCI Warning and the State’s Duty to Protect Citizens’ Savings, Hopes and Economic Rights
The author argues that public trust is the foundation of Indonesia’s capital market, as many people’s savings and long-term plans are invested there. MSCI’s concerns over share-ownership transparency and alleged coordinated trading should prompt domestic scrutiny and reform, regardless of whether its proposal to classify Indonesia as a standalone market is adopted.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 02:53 WIB
Meeting with Transmigration Minister, BRAN Chief Calls for Productive Land to Improve Public Welfare
BRAN chief Dedi Prasetyo and Transmigration Minister Muhammad Iftitah Sulaiman Suryanagara discussed clarifying land rights, resolving agrarian conflicts and making transmigration areas engines of economic growth. The talks covered 3.1 million hectares of transmigration land, overlapping claims and potential agrarian reform sites, with Dedi stressing that land access must be matched by practical support for productive livelihoods.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 02:47 WIB
Crime round-up: Cimanggis blast was not a bomb, while police shooting remains under investigation
Polda Metro Jaya said a blast at Cimanggis Market was not caused by a bomb or other explosive, while investigations continue into several other incidents, including violence against a University of Indonesia student leader and a shooting involving two police officers. Police also arrested five people in a suspected drug-use raid, five alleged debt collectors accused of intimidation, and are still examining the circumstances and motive behind the Pondok Cabe shooting.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 02:41 WIB
DKI Jakarta Yesterday: Student Protests and the City’s Ambition to Become a Film Hub
Tuesday’s Jakarta news included the evacuation of six Greenpeace activists from the Welcome Monument, traffic diversions for demonstrations across six areas, and a protest by hundreds of students near Tugu Tani. Governor Pramono Anung also voiced hopes of developing Jakarta into a film city comparable to Busan, while calling for demonstrations to remain orderly and safe.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 02:30 WIB
Auspicious Days in the Balinese Calendar: Ala Ayuning Dewasa for 21 October 2026
The Balinese calendar identifies several auspicious and inauspicious activities for Wednesday, 21 October 2026, including a warning against beginning to raise livestock. These traditional calculations guide Balinese Hindu communities in choosing dates for rituals and customary activities.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 02:29 WIB
BMKG: Jakarta to Be Overcast on Wednesday Morning, Temperatures Could Reach 36°C
BMKG forecasts thick cloud cover in parts of Jakarta on Wednesday morning, with temperatures across the capital ranging from 26°C to 36°C. Conditions are expected to vary by district throughout the day, while wind speeds are forecast at 1–15 kilometres per hour.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 02:16 WIB
Investment Realisation Reaches 75.4% of Target as Government Seeks to Make Up the Remainder in Q4
Indonesia recorded Rp1,539.2 trillion in investment from January to September 2026, equal to 75.4% of its annual target, with foreign investment slightly exceeding domestic investment. The final quarter will need to deliver the remaining 24.6% of the target; the nine-month total also supported 2.19 million reported jobs, with investment concentrated slightly more outside Java.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 02:09 WIB
Russia Attacks Eastern Ukraine, Killing Four
Four people, including three energy-sector workers, were killed in Russian attacks on the frontline city of Kramatorsk, according to the regional governor and Ukraine’s Energy Ministry. The strikes also wounded six people and add to concerns over damage to energy infrastructure and heating supplies ahead of winter.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 01:43 WIB
IDX and MSCI Meet as Indonesian Stock Exchange Reforms Accelerate
The Indonesia Stock Exchange has outlined two further transparency measures after meeting MSCI: disclosing the affiliation status of shareholders with stakes of at least 1 per cent, and excluding highly concentrated shares from the Jakarta Composite Index calculation. The measures complement earlier reforms, but their impact on market confidence and MSCI’s assessment will depend on implementation details, consistent oversight and clear public communication.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 01:35 WIB
ASDP Monitors Passengers After KMP Batumandi Fire and Arranges Their Return
ASDP Indonesia Ferry says all passengers and crew were evacuated safely after the KMP Batumandi caught fire, with no fatalities reported. The company is monitoring passengers’ health, arranging their return home and reviewing Merak–Bakauheni ferry operations in coordination with authorities.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 01:30 WIB
Police Arrest Two in West Jakarta Case Involving Etomidate Vape Cartridges
Police in Jakarta have arrested two suspects and seized 858 vape cartridges suspected of containing etomidate, along with 5.21 grammes of crystal suspected to be methamphetamine. Investigators are testing the evidence and pursuing leads to identify suppliers and other people allegedly involved, while police have urged the public to avoid e-cigarette liquids of unknown composition and report suspected drug trafficking.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 01:00 WIB
Police Officer Shoots Fellow Officer in Pondok Cabe; Cartridge Cases and Sharp Weapons Seized
Polda Metro Jaya is investigating the fatal shooting of Bharatu Laurentius Valdo Fernandez Lawai by his junior, Bharada Andika Rahmadani, at a police facility in Pondok Cabe. Investigators have seized cartridge cases, a sharp weapon and personal belongings, but have yet to establish a motive while awaiting the suspect’s condition to allow a thorough examination; police say he has been detained and the case will be pursued fully.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 01:00 WIB
Geothermal Power’s Double Impact: Creating New Economic Activity Along Operational Routes
PT Pertamina Geothermal Energy says its projects can open up isolated mountain areas, create new economic activity and employ up to 2,000 local workers during peak construction. A presidential vice-president’s special staffer also urged the company to ensure nearby communities benefit directly from geothermal energy, including through the use of surplus output.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 00:59 WIB
Indonesia’s investment realisation reaches Rp1,539.2 trillion by Q3 2026
Indonesia recorded Rp1,539.2 trillion in investment realisation from January to September 2026, equal to 75.4% of its target, with third-quarter investment at Rp528.7 trillion and more than 2.19 million workers absorbed. Domestic investment contributed 49.5% and foreign investment 50.5%; downstreaming investment reached Rp480 trillion, led by minerals, with most downstreaming investment located outside Java.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 00:58 WIB
MPR Deputy Speaker Ibas Yudhoyono Stresses the Importance of Keeping the Constitution Relevant Amid Global Change
Edhie Baskoro Yudhoyono (Ibas) has called for Indonesia’s constitutional principles to be preserved while state institutions and public policies adapt to rapid global change. Speaking at Melbourne Law School, he said sustainable development across generations depends on clear, consistent and accountable laws and regulations that protect rights and improve people’s lives.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 00:53 WIB
BNPPDT Prioritises Economic Programmes with Tangible Impact in Border Areas
The National Agency for Border and Remote Area Management (BNPPDT) will prioritise economic development initiatives tailored to communities’ needs and capable of being implemented quickly at relatively low cost. It will map local potential and infrastructure requirements, drawing on experts and academic institutions, to ensure programmes deliver measurable benefits in border and remote areas.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 00:52 WIB
ITB Expert Explains Earthquake and Groundwater Risks in Geothermal Projects
ITB professor Lambok Hutasoit addressed public concerns over earthquakes, groundwater disruption and uncontrolled well flows during geothermal exploration, outlining how geology, well construction and pressure-control equipment help manage these risks. The Kamojang geothermal plant, operating commercially since 1983, has five units with a combined installed capacity of 235 MW and serves as a longstanding example of geothermal development in Indonesia.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 00:50 WIB
Air Force Steps Up Cloud-Seeding Operations in Kalimantan to Tackle Forest and Land Fires, Flying Three Sorties a Day
The Indonesian Air Force has increased cloud-seeding operations over South and Central Kalimantan to help combat the threat of forest and land fires, with flights now operating three sorties a day. The effort uses dry ice to seed rain-bearing clouds, although its effectiveness depends on cloud conditions and the weather in the target areas.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 00:48 WIB
KSP: National Industrialisation Could Create New Jobs
Presidential Chief of Staff Listyo Sigit Prabowo said national industrialisation could generate substantial employment, supported by stronger regulation and faster downstream processing. He stressed that industrial growth should be accompanied by skills development and worker protections, and called for collaboration among government, businesses and workers towards Indonesia Emas 2045.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 00:48 WIB
Base Metals Investment Reaches Rp118.8 Trillion in Q3 2026
Indonesia recorded Rp528.7 trillion in investment in the third quarter of 2026, up 7.6 per cent year on year, with base metals accounting for Rp118.8 trillion—the largest share, driven chiefly by foreign capital. The figures underscore the importance of the government’s downstreaming strategy, which aims to build domestic value chains linking mineral extraction with processing, manufacturing and clean-energy industries.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 00:45 WIB
Deputy MPR Speaker Edhie Baskoro Yudhoyono Calls for Stronger Governance of Museums and Art Galleries in Indonesia
Deputy Speaker of the People’s Consultative Assembly Edhie Baskoro Yudhoyono has called for stronger museum and art-gallery governance, supported by international partnerships, sustainable funding, technology and arts education for young people. During a visit to Australia’s National Gallery, he said Indonesia’s diverse cultural heritage should be given greater visibility through exhibitions, documentation and collaboration at home and abroad.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 00:30 WIB
BNPT Reveals 4,000 Children Exposed to Violent Ideology
Indonesia’s National Counterterrorism Agency (BNPT) says more than 4,000 children may have been exposed to violent ideology, with digital platforms identified as a key channel. Officials urged teachers and families to strengthen digital literacy, monitor signs of vulnerability and promote inclusive, non-violent values.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 00:30 WIB
DEN Warns Prabowo About El Niño and La Niña and Their Impact on Indonesia’s Food Supply
The National Economic Council has warned President Prabowo Subianto that El Niño and La Niña could disrupt food availability and raise the risk of flooding. The council recommends using forecasts to target drought preparations, adjust planting schedules and protect food supply and price stability, with El Niño expected through the first quarter of 2027 and La Niña in mid-2027.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 00:28 WIB
Downstreaming Investment Tops Rp480 Trillion by September 2026
Indonesia recorded Rp480 trillion in downstreaming investment in the first nine months of 2026, up 11.3% year on year and accounting for 31.2% of national investment. Mineral processing dominated, while 78% of downstreaming investment was realised outside Java; total national investment reached 75.4% of the government’s full-year target.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 00:20 WIB
Luhut Targets Kratom and Benzoin Downstreaming in 2027, Saying It Is Like Nickel
Indonesia plans to develop downstream processing for kratom and benzoin, with a launch targeted for March 2027, as it seeks to expand value-added production beyond minerals. Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan said a planned genome-sequencing research centre in North Sumatra would form part of the preparations, while the market-value estimate he cited lacked details on currency, timeframe and scope.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 00:19 WIB
WIFI Expands Its Business, Set to Boost Revenue
PT Solusi Sinergi Digital (WIFI), also known as Surge, plans to add telecommunications-centre construction to its business lines, citing rising demand for telecom infrastructure, fibre-optic networks and digital connectivity. The company expects to begin the new activity in the fourth quarter of 2026, subject to shareholder approval, and says the expansion will strengthen its position as an integrated telecommunications infrastructure provider focused on B2B customers.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 00:15 WIB
Universal BPR profit surges 115.61% to Rp18.3bn
Universal BPR recorded net profit of Rp18.3 billion through September 2026, up 115.61% year on year, alongside growth in assets and third-party funds. More than 86% of its lending supports productive activities, while the bank reported a net NPL ratio of 1.89% and plans to expand inclusive business lending and digital services in 2027.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 00:13 WIB
KPK Seizes Rp250 Million from Nias NU Branch, Suspected to Be Linked to NU Congress
Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has seized Rp250 million voluntarily handed over by the Nias branch of Nahdlatul Ulama, amid allegations that the money may be linked to vote-buying at the organisation’s 35th congress. Investigators are examining whether the funds relate to a separate corruption investigation involving the Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency; the money may be returned if no connection is established.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 00:10 WIB
Several Cirebon Pupils Suspected of MBG Food Poisoning, Suffering Vomiting and Diarrhoea
Pupils from three schools in Harjamukti, Cirebon, were suspected of falling ill after eating meals provided under the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, with symptoms including nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea. Parents took their children to hospital on Tuesday afternoon, reporting that symptoms began after school and that several other pupils had similar complaints.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 00:10 WIB
Fuel Queues Stretch from Malang to Jember as Energy Ministry Vows Resolution Within Two Days
Indonesia’s Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry expects long fuel queues in several East Java areas, including Malang, Jember and Blitar, to be cleared within one to two days. Authorities are increasing supplies and accelerating deliveries, including through additional tanker trucks and round-the-clock depot operations, while assuring residents that East Java’s fuel stocks will be protected.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 00:10 WIB
KPK Seizes Documents, Cash and Jewellery in Search of Klaten Regent’s Official Residence
Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) seized documents, electronic evidence, cash and jewellery during searches linked to an alleged corruption case in Klaten Regency. The investigation follows an October arrest operation and encompasses alleged bribery to influence a state audit, procurement, mining permits and payments from local government agencies.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 00:08 WIB
Immigration Urges Business Associations to Make Greater Use of APEC Business Travel Cards
Indonesia’s Directorate General of Immigration is encouraging business associations to make better use of the APEC Business Travel Card (ABTC), now available through a digital application process. The agency says the faster, paperless service will ease regional business travel and support investment, while applications from Indonesians rose 41.8% in 2026.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 00:07 WIB
PGE Geothermal Energy Cuts Fertiliser Drying Time from 14 Days to 12 Hours
Pertamina Geothermal Energy’s Kamojang operation is using geothermal heat to reduce organic fertiliser drying from 14 days to 12 hours, alongside other direct-use applications supporting local livelihoods. The Kanyaah programme also applies geothermal energy to fish farming and food processing, with the company reporting improved fish growth and a long-standing record of environmental performance.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 00:07 WIB
PT DI: N219 Aircraft Is 100 Per Cent the Work of Indonesians
PT Dirgantara Indonesia chief Gita Amperiawan says the N219 was developed without foreign technical assistance, drawing on around 16 domestic defence industries and four Indonesian universities. The aircraft is designed for 19 passengers and short, often unpaved runways; its domestic content could rise from 44.69 per cent to 65 per cent if mass production begins.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 00:07 WIB
Mandatory Halal Certification Delayed; MUI Urges Public to Continue Buying Halal Products
The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) has urged consumers to keep choosing products bearing halal labels after the government postponed mandatory halal certification from 2026 to 2028. MUI says the delay could leave consumers less certain about product status and argues that the certification requirement protects Muslims’ rights, while the government cites the broad scope of implementation involving millions of businesses and multiple industries.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 00:05 WIB
RNH Umrah Travel Boss Wanted over Alleged Rp12 Billion Losses Arrested in Central Java
Police have arrested RH, director of RNH Umrah Travel, in Temanggung, Central Java, over alleged fraud and embezzlement involving pilgrims’ departure funds. Investigators initially identified about 172 victims and Rp9 billion in losses, while RH reportedly put the figures at 250 people and Rp12 billion; both estimates are being verified.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 00:04 WIB
John Lee Welcomes Establishment of AIIB Office in Hong Kong
Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee has welcomed the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank’s plan to establish an office in the city, with both financing and operational functions. He said the office would create opportunities for Hong Kong’s financial sector and strengthen regional cooperation, drawing on the city’s capabilities in areas including green finance, fintech and offshore renminbi business.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 00:02 WIB
Magnitude 5.4 Earthquake off West Aceh Poses No Tsunami Threat
BMKG said a magnitude 5.4 earthquake struck off West Aceh late on Tuesday, at a depth of 74 kilometres, and posed no tsunami risk. The tremor startled residents in Meulaboh.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 00:02 WIB
Report: More than 13 million Australians use AI in their daily lives
An Australian government report estimates that 13.6 million people use AI tools every day, with usage highest among working-age adults. More than 60 per cent of those surveyed use AI to find information and advice, while 39 per cent use it to create content for work or study.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 00:02 WIB
Prof Lambok Rebuts Public Misconceptions About Geothermal Drilling: No Link to Water Crisis
Hydrogeology expert Prof Lambok M. Hutasoit says geothermal power operations are not directly linked to landslides or water shortages, arguing that deep geothermal reservoirs are separated from shallow aquifers by an impermeable cap rock. He also describes drilling to depths of 2,000 metres as routine, although the supplied article ends before his response to claims that geothermal drilling can trigger earthquakes.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 00:01 WIB
Police Investigate After Dozens of Miniature ‘Shrouded Bodies’ Found in Magelang
Police in Magelang say bones found wrapped in burial shrouds were not human remains, but likely belonged to a four-legged animal. The discovery of more than 20 bundles at a site receiving building rubble had alarmed local residents, who feared they might contain the remains of babies.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 00:01 WIB
APEC Finance Ministers’ Meeting Opens in Hong Kong
The two-day APEC Finance Ministers’ Meeting has opened in Hong Kong, with representatives set to discuss key financial priorities ahead of the 33rd APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting in Shenzhen in November. Topics include fiscal policy to support livelihoods, digital infrastructure financing, locally tailored financial inclusion, and cooperation among young finance professionals.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 00:00 WIB
Bahlil: Golkar Was Not Founded Solely to Make Its Chairman President or Vice-President
Golkar chairman Bahlil Lahadalia said the party’s purpose is to advance the state’s goals, including social justice and public welfare, rather than simply to secure the presidency for its leader. His remarks came amid questions about whether Golkar could partner with Prabowo Subianto in the 2029 election; he also outlined the party’s history and its stated welfare-oriented doctrine.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 00:00 WIB
BBCA Shares Fall Sharply: Price Movements and Clarification of Takeover Rumours
Bank Central Asia shares fell 6.86% to a five-year low of Rp4,820 on 19 October 2026, amid heavy selling and a sharp net outflow of foreign investment. The decline has pushed BBCA’s valuation measures to levels well below their decade-long ranges, while BCA and the Financial Services Authority have denied rumours that businessman Haji Isam plans to acquire the bank.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 00:00 WIB
Khalid Basalamah Admits Paying US$554,500 to KPK in Connection with Hajj Corruption Case
Islamic preacher and Hajj travel agency owner Khalid Basalamah told a Jakarta court he had paid US$554,500 to the Corruption Eradication Commission in connection with an alleged corruption case involving Hajj quotas. Former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas is accused of causing state losses of Rp622.09 billion by manipulating additional Hajj quota allocations in 2023 and 2024.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:59 WIB
The Decisive Battle Won by Saladin That Opened the Way to the Liberation of Al-Aqsa
Saladin’s efforts to unite Muslim forces were challenged by Crusader control of key coastal cities and fortresses, which disrupted links between his territories and maintained connections with Western Europe. The article sets out how these strategic pressures and Crusader attempts to divert his attention helped set the stage for the Battle of Hattin, a turning point in the struggle for Al-Aqsa.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:55 WIB
Bahlil Says Times Have Changed: Gen Z Won’t Notice Politicians Who Give Too Many Speeches
Golkar chairman Bahlil Lahadalia said political leaders are now judged more by their actions than by their speeches, particularly by younger voters. At Golkar’s 62nd anniversary event, he said the party would mark the occasion with community assistance, reflecting both the modesty urged by the President and concern over global conditions and public hardship.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:55 WIB
Police Say Malioboro Is Calm Again After Protest Outside Yogyakarta DPRD
Police said Malioboro had returned to a calm and controlled state after clashes broke out during a student protest outside the Yogyakarta Regional House of Representatives (DPRD DIY). Several students were detained for data collection and protection, while both protesters and police officers sustained minor injuries.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:55 WIB
KMP Batumandi Catches Fire Moments Before Docking at Merak Port
The passenger ferry KMP Batumandi caught fire as it approached Merak Port in Banten after departing Bakauheni, Lampung. All passengers and crew were evacuated safely, with no fatalities reported; authorities are investigating the cause of the blaze.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:52 WIB
Indonesian envoy urges PAL to target Middle Eastern market
Indonesia’s envoy has encouraged state-owned shipbuilder PT PAL to pursue opportunities in the Middle East, citing stronger economic ties with the UAE after the Indonesia–UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement took effect. The company’s construction of a landing platform dock for the UAE Navy and its push for international partnerships could help expand defence exports while building domestic industrial capabilities.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:51 WIB
PHE holds upstream oil and gas forum to strengthen investment collaboration
Pertamina Hulu Energi will host the 2026 FOREK Hulu Migas forum in Jakarta, bringing together government, regulators, contractors, investors and lenders to discuss ways to strengthen investment and boost national oil and gas output. PHE says Indonesia’s energy security requires substantial long-term investment, cross-sector coordination and appropriately managed financing and risks.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:49 WIB
Persib Praises Batang Police for Naming Suspects in Bus Attack
Persib Bandung has praised Batang Police for naming three suspects in an attack on the club’s Under-18 team bus at a motorway rest area in Central Java. Police say the investigation is continuing, with evidence including witness statements and CCTV footage being examined to determine whether others were involved.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:48 WIB
North Kalimantan Governor Calls for Police Services to Be Strengthened Down to Sector Level
North Kalimantan Governor Zainal A. Paliwang has urged police to strengthen the roles of district and sector police offices so residents can access security services across the province. During a meeting with newly appointed provincial police chief Andi Syahriful Taufik, he also stressed that close coordination between local government and police is vital to public order and development.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:48 WIB
Walking Fewer Than 5,000 Steps a Day Linked to Higher Stroke Risk
A study of more than 22,000 adults found that those averaging fewer than 5,000 daily steps had substantially higher rates of dementia, Parkinson’s disease and stroke than those walking more than 12,000 steps. Researchers said activity levels may offer clues about overall brain and physical health, while stressing that further research is needed to confirm the associations; they suggest that a sustainable target of around 8,000 steps a day may be beneficial.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:40 WIB
DPR member praises Rp28.6 trillion in corruption asset recovery under Prabowo
A House of Representatives member has praised the recovery of Rp28.6 trillion in state assets from corruption cases in 2025, attributed to the Attorney General’s Office, the Corruption Eradication Commission and the National Police. He said recovery must be matched by fair punishment, stronger prevention and transparent, independent law enforcement.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:35 WIB
Prosecutor Says Testimony from Two Witnesses Strengthens Extortion Case Against Defendant Accused of Receiving Victim’s Money
Prosecutors say testimony from two bank employees, supported by account records, shows that Rp80 million was transferred from the alleged victim’s accounts to defendant Bangun Paulus Tudungta. The evidence was presented at a Central Jakarta District Court hearing and is said to be consistent with the victim’s earlier testimony that they made several transfers.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:34 WIB
PGE Kamojang Rebuts Forest Damage Concerns with Zero-Waste Operations
Pertamina Geothermal Energy’s Kamojang operation says its directional drilling and zero-waste practices limit the surface area used for five geothermal power plants to about 110 hectares—around 0.2 per cent of its 45,000-hectare concession. The company says it recycles drilling fluids and cuttings, reforests land, and seeks to restore forest functions around operational wells.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:33 WIB
ESDM aims to resolve East Java fuel queues this week
The Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry expects queues for fuel in parts of East Java to be resolved within one to two days, following shortages and distribution problems in areas including Malang, Jember and Blitar. Measures include increasing deliveries to depots, deploying 21 additional tanker trucks and extending depot operations to 24 hours, while provincial officials have called for tighter monitoring of subsidised fuel distribution.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:30 WIB
Closure of Five Komodo National Park Marine Tourism Spots Extended Until 22 October
Labuan Bajo’s harbour authority has extended a ban on tourist boats and visitor activities in five waters of Komodo National Park until 22 October while search operations continue for a missing passenger from the sunken pinisi boat Feronia. The restriction applies daily from 7am to 5pm and is intended to allow search-and-rescue teams to work effectively.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:30 WIB
KPK Names Two New Suspects in Rejang Lebong Corruption Case
Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has named two additional suspects in an expanding bribery investigation linked to project contracts in Rejang Lebong and other areas of Bengkulu. The case, involving alleged advance bribes for projects in the 2025–2026 budget years, has also led investigators to seize Rp4 billion from the home of Bengkulu City’s Public Works and Housing Agency chief.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:28 WIB
Judge K Given Two-Year Suspension from Hearing Cases for Misconduct During Working Hours
Indonesia’s Judicial Honour Council has imposed a two-year non-bench sanction on Judge K, finding that he engaged in sexual misconduct while serving as deputy head of the Dompu Religious Court. He will not hear cases and will lose his judicial post allowance during the sanction; the council said the misconduct breached judicial ethics rules.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:27 WIB
KPK Probes Suspected Rigging of Projects in West Lombok Regency Government
Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) questioned two West Lombok officials over projects allegedly steered towards particular suppliers. The inquiry forms part of corruption cases involving suspended regent Lalu Ahmad Zaini, whom the KPK alleges received up to Rp12.4 billion through procurement-related conflicts of interest and bribery.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:20 WIB
KPK Suspects Cooperative Was Used to Manage Deductions from Bogor Regency Government Incentives
Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is investigating whether a staff cooperative was used to manage deductions from incentives within the Bogor Regency Government. Investigators questioned five local government employees and are examining whether the funds were subsequently channelled to state officials, amid a wider probe into alleged corruption and recent seizures and searches.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:20 WIB
460 People Safely Evacuated from KMP Batumandi; 11 Taken to Hospital
A joint search-and-rescue team evacuated all 460 people aboard the KMP Batumandi after a fire broke out in its engine room near Merak Port, Banten. Eleven people were referred to hospital for further medical treatment, while 18 vessels and supporting units took part in the response and firefighting operation.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:16 WIB
Child Endangerment Cases on the Rise Due to Parental Negligence; Psychologist Urges Mindful Parenting
A University of Indonesia psychologist has urged parents to make children’s safety and wellbeing their priority following incidents in which young children were left unsupervised, including a fatal fall from a hotel balcony and a child left alone at a campsite. She says mindful parenting means weighing priorities carefully, as leaving children in unfamiliar settings can cause fear and potentially lasting trauma.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:16 WIB
PHE says upstream oil and gas investment reached US$15.42 billion in 2025
Investment by production-sharing contract contractors in Indonesia’s upstream oil and gas sector reached about US$15.42 billion in 2025, according to Pertamina Hulu Energi finance director Bayu Kusuma Dewanto. He urged stronger certainty and coordination to turn investment and the country’s largely untapped basin potential into higher output, as domestic oil demand remains far above production; SKK Migas said attractive fiscal incentives are key to improving competitiveness.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:15 WIB
Blora Regency Government and Council Push to Accelerate Sekolah Rakyat
Blora’s regency government and local council are coordinating with the Social Affairs and Public Works ministries to speed up construction of a Sekolah Rakyat in Cepu. Site preparation is nearly complete, with land-filling work at 95.70 per cent, but officials are awaiting formal site designation and are seeking central government support for remaining land preparation and technical studies.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:15 WIB
Forest and Land Fires in East Java Burn 7,363 Hectares, 79% in Conservation Areas
Forest and land fires in East Java burned 7,363.30 hectares between August and September 2026, with 79 per cent of the affected area in conservation zones. Deputy Governor Emil Elestianto Dardak said Baluran National Park was the worst affected and outlined differing response strategies for accessible and remote fire sites, while stressing the need to protect personnel.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:14 WIB
Viral Zoom Recording with Raja Juli: Wildfire Volunteer Organisation Founder Explains What the Meeting Was Really About
Conservation Action Network (CAN) Borneo founder Paulinus Kristanto says a meeting between forest-fire volunteers and Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni was intended to raise operational challenges, not spark a debate over budgets. The volunteers sought better coordination, equipment and logistical support as they continue fighting fires and rescuing affected wildlife in Tanjung Puting National Park.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:11 WIB
Sulawesi Tenggara catering corruption case: only Rp300 million of Rp4.2 billion returned
Prosecutors in Southeast Sulawesi say only about Rp300 million has been returned from estimated state losses of Rp4.23 billion in a suspected 2022–2023 corruption case involving official hospitality spending. They have seized evidence and land, urged parties to return illicit proceeds, and named another suspect, while investigations into possible further involvement continue.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:11 WIB
Indonesia’s Ombudsman Opens Online Complaints Desk for Halal Certification Services
Indonesia’s Ombudsman has opened an online complaints desk from October to December 2026 to address problems with halal certification registration and issuance, ahead of the October deadline for mandatory certification. The channel is intended to help consumers and businesses report service delays, alleged unauthorised charges and other maladministration, with the Ombudsman coordinating responses with the Halal Product Assurance Agency (BPJPH).
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:09 WIB
Pindad Increases Production to Support Construction of New Battalions
State-owned defence manufacturer PT Pindad is expanding ammunition and weapons production to meet demand from newly established military battalions. It says annual SS3 rifle capacity has risen to more than 70,000, and it has supplied the Defence Ministry with over 2,500 Maung vehicles for troop mobility.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:08 WIB
Indonesia responds to Greenpeace protests over climate and living costs
The government defended its climate and cost-of-living measures after Greenpeace activists protested in Jakarta, citing forest-fire funding, a Rp26.34 trillion stimulus package and plans to stabilise rice and fuel prices. Officials also welcomed the group’s recommendations, as the demonstration coincided with the second anniversary of President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka taking office.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:02 WIB
Kepri Police and US Embassy Strengthen Coordination on Human Trafficking Cases
The Riau Islands Police and the US Embassy in Jakarta are stepping up coordination on human trafficking, online scams and other transnational crimes. Police said they handled 36 cases and rescued 143 victims in 2026, while warning that some Indonesians recruited for overseas online-scam operations had themselves been trafficked and exploited.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:02 WIB
Yemeni envoy says war is against Houthi rebels, not Saudi Arabia
Yemen’s ambassador to Indonesia, Balfakeeh, said the conflict is a struggle against Houthi rebels who seized power, not a war between Yemen and Saudi Arabia, and criticised what he called inaccurate Indonesian media coverage. He also warned of Houthi attacks on Red Sea shipping and the humanitarian consequences of the siege of Taiz, urging international pressure to restore stability.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:01 WIB
PNM Wins ESG NOW Awards 2026 for Helping Mekaar Clients Turn Waste into Economic Value
PT Permodalan Nasional Madani (PNM) has received the ESG NOW Awards 2026 in the Circular Economy Empowerment category for its Kembangs programme, which encourages women clients of PNM Mekaar to sort and deposit household waste for economic benefit. The initiative combines income-generating opportunities with environmental awareness and community participation in waste management.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:00 WIB
The Lowest Place on Earth, Rome’s Defeat, and the Quran’s Scientific Miracle That Silenced Atheists
The article discusses Quranic verses describing the Romans’ defeat by the Persians and their prophesied victory several years later, focusing on the phrase rendered as “the lowest part of the land”. It also notes that the Arabic word *adna* can carry different meanings depending on context, including “lower”, “lesser” or “nearer”.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:00 WIB
On National Santri Day 2026, Gus Dur’s Daughter Urges Stronger Child-Friendly Pesantren
Alissa Wahid has called for stronger protections for students at Islamic boarding schools, saying the establishment of the Ministry of Religious Affairs’ Directorate General of Pesantren offers an opportunity to improve safeguarding and governance. She says child-friendly pesantren must go beyond preventing violence to ensure facilities, supervision and care practices protect children’s welfare and rights.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:00 WIB
Cileungsi River Turns Black, Waste Sediment Suspected as the Cause
The Cileungsi River in Bogor has turned black again as water levels fall, prompting residents to worry about water quality. Bogor’s Environmental Agency says long-accumulated waste sediment becomes more visible when flows diminish, highlighting the need for continued water-quality monitoring and better control of waste sources.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:59 WIB
Prabowo to Launch Digital Social Protection Scheme, Replacing Welfare Aid with Cash Transfers
President Prabowo Subianto is scheduled to launch the nationwide Digital Social Protection programme on 10 November 2026, with assistance to be delivered as cash transfers rather than subsidies for products. The system has been piloted across all 514 districts and municipalities, with 11.5 million households registered; a Bali pilot reportedly reduced exclusion errors by 24.1 per cent and inclusion errors from 4.1 per cent, aiming to make aid more transparent and accurately targeted.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:58 WIB
Bahlil: Golkar Was Founded Not Merely to Make Its Chairman President
Golkar chairman Bahlil Lahadalia says the party was established to respond to the nation’s needs, not simply to secure the presidency for its leader. He noted that no Golkar chairman has become president, while Soedharmono was the only serving party chairman to become vice-president; Jusuf Kalla held the vice-presidency before leading Golkar.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:57 WIB
National Economic Council Reports Findings on MBG Students’ School Attendance to Prabowo
The National Economic Council told President Prabowo Subianto that its survey found students receiving the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme were less likely to miss school than non-recipients, with the difference greatest among the poorest students. The survey also linked meal quality to students’ enthusiasm for learning, prompting the council to recommend improving the quality of meals delivered through the programme.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:56 WIB
YPMAK Monitors the Studies of 23 Scholarship Recipients in Jakarta
The Amungme and Kamoro Community Empowerment Foundation (YPMAK), which manages PT Freeport Indonesia’s partnership funds, has assessed the academic progress and support available to 23 scholarship recipients studying in Jakarta and surrounding areas. The monitoring is intended to ensure the scholarship programme meets students’ needs and helps them complete their degrees on time, so they can contribute to development in their home region.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:56 WIB
Indonesia urges digital platforms to improve algorithm transparency
Communication and Digital Affairs Minister Meutya Hafid called on digital platforms to make their algorithms more transparent and accountable, stressing that expanding internet access must go hand in hand with protecting users, particularly children. At Bali Tech Week 2026, she cited Indonesia’s three digital-transformation pillars—connectivity, growth and protection—while Malaysia’s communications minister praised Indonesia’s child-safety rules and highlighted the role of regulation in creating a safer online environment.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:55 WIB
Indonesia strengthens food safety rules in more than 6,000 tourism villages
Indonesia’s tourism ministry and the Food and Drug Monitoring Agency (BPOM) are integrating BPOM’s Food-Safe Village framework into national tourism programmes, with more than 6,300 tourism villages potentially benefiting. The initiative will provide communities with technical assistance and training to improve food safety, protect public health and strengthen visitor confidence and local businesses’ commercial appeal.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:51 WIB
KPK: BNPB Corruption Suspect Case Linked to Handling of Forest Fires and Floods
Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) says suspected misuse of the National Disaster Mitigation Agency’s (BNPB) disaster contingency funds is directly linked to procurement for forest and land fires, floods and landslides, and aid for displaced people. Investigators have seized documents, cash and vehicles, and searched eight locations in connection with the case.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:50 WIB
Environment Minister Says Indonesia Has Rp4,500 Trillion Carbon Economy Potential, Jumhur Warns Officials
Environment Minister Moh Jumhur Hidayat estimates Indonesia’s carbon trading potential at US$200 billion, or about Rp4,500 trillion, and says revenues must benefit communities that protect ecosystems. He also calls for carbon-market schemes to be tied to tangible environmental restoration and highlights the need to address open-dump waste disposal sites.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:50 WIB
Indonesia attracts $2.5 billion in palm oil investment so far in 2026
Indonesia recorded Rp 44.4 trillion (about $2.5 billion) in palm oil investment by the end of September 2026, as the government seeks to draw capital into higher-value processing and job creation. The sector remains a major export earner, while expanding domestic biodiesel use reflects Jakarta’s push to reduce fuel imports amid higher energy prices.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:49 WIB
Jambi Police Arrest Umrah Travel Agency Director in Fraud Case
Jambi Regional Police have arrested RH, a director of RNH Umrah Travel, in Central Java after she was placed on a wanted list over alleged fraud and embezzlement of funds for Umrah trips. The case concerns customers who paid for journeys scheduled for February 2026 that did not take place; RH has been taken to Jambi for further questioning.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:47 WIB
Government prepares fiscal strategy to keep fuel prices stable until year-end
The government is considering fiscal measures to keep fuel prices stable through the end of 2026 while maintaining fiscal sustainability. The National Economic Council says maintaining subsidised fuel prices is important for household purchasing power, while recommending longer-term reforms to make energy subsidies better targeted.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:47 WIB
Minerals Lead Indonesia’s Downstream Investment in Q3 2026
Indonesia’s downstream investment reached Rp179.9 trillion in the third quarter of 2026, up 19.4% year on year and accounting for 34% of total investment inflows. Minerals attracted the largest share, at Rp128.6 trillion, while total investment inflows reached Rp528.7 trillion, comprising Rp270.2 trillion in foreign investment and Rp258.5 trillion in domestic investment.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:45 WIB
KPK Searches Klaten Regent’s Official Residence, Seizes Cash and Jewellery
Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has searched the Klaten regent’s official residence, government offices and suspects’ homes in an investigation into alleged corruption in the Klaten administration in 2025–2026. Investigators reportedly found cash and jewellery at the residence, and the case involves three suspects and five alleged corruption schemes.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:41 WIB
BNPT Chief Urges 1,600 Jabodetabek High School Students to Become Peace Ambassadors
BNPT chief Eddy Hartono has urged 1,600 high school students from across Jakarta, Bogor, Depok, Tangerang and Bekasi to promote peace and positive change in their schools. He encouraged them to apply a “Pause, Check and Consider” approach before sharing information online, while highlighting the need for schools, parents and government to work together to protect young people from hate speech and violent content.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:40 WIB
Indonesia tightens weather-modification rules after dry ice hits homes
Indonesia has tightened safety procedures for cloud-seeding operations after dry ice reportedly hit homes, requiring special hopper filters and finer particles designed to evaporate before reaching the ground. The missions are part of a wider effort to disperse haze from fires in Sumatra and Kalimantan, with authorities reporting improved visibility in Palembang and substantial deployment of aircraft and ground crews.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:40 WIB
Moments Before KMP Batumandi Caught Fire, Two Explosions Were Heard
Passengers aboard the KMP Batumandi reported hearing two explosions before a fire broke out in waters off Merak, with the second blast followed by a power failure and panic. Some passengers jumped into the sea and were rescued by local fishermen; one passenger said no lifeboats were lowered before everyone had left the vessel.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:39 WIB
A total of 5,729 hectares of aquaculture ponds in Sumatra are back in operation
Some 5,729.33 hectares of fish ponds and aquaculture facilities in Aceh, North Sumatra and West Sumatra had resumed operations by October 2026 after disasters damaged them late last year. The Fisheries and Marine Affairs Ministry is restoring equipment and facilities across the fisheries supply chain to help affected communities revive their livelihoods and economic activity.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:38 WIB
Bahlil: Party Leaders Who Only Give Speeches Will Not Appeal to Gen Z Without Action
Golkar chairman Bahlil Lahadalia says political party leaders need to demonstrate tangible action on the ground, rather than rely on speeches, to engage Generation Z. He also said Golkar’s 62nd anniversary would be marked modestly, citing global difficulties and public concerns, in line with President Prabowo Subianto’s call for simplicity.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:38 WIB
Malaysia’s MyClinic Invests Rp4.38 Billion to Expand into Indonesia
Malaysian aesthetic medicine provider MyClinic has invested Rp4.38 billion to open its first clinic in Jakarta, capitalising on Indonesia’s growing beauty and wellness market. The move aligns with government efforts to attract investment in medical and wellness tourism, while building on the fact that Indonesians already account for about 5% of MyClinic’s patients in Malaysia.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:38 WIB
Pindad strengthens defence self-reliance through local suppliers
State-owned defence manufacturer PT Pindad is seeking to raise domestic content in its products by developing and providing technical support to local suppliers. The effort is intended to reduce reliance on imports, improve the competitiveness of Pindad’s products and expand industrial activity and employment.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:37 WIB
Luhut Reveals Prabowo’s Plan to Downstream Kratom and Benzoin by 2027
National Economic Council chairman Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan says President Prabowo Subianto is expected to inaugurate downstream processing projects for kratom and benzoin in March 2027, following the opening of a genome sequencing research centre in Toba. Luhut estimates the commodities could have downstreaming potential worth tens of billions of US dollars, comparing the plan with Indonesia’s nickel downstreaming drive.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:37 WIB
Reza Rahadian Says Betrayal in Student Activism Is Heartbreaking
Actor Reza Rahadian says betrayal is among the deepest wounds in human relationships, a theme explored in the film “Laut Bercerita” through the story of an activist who turns towards the ruling regime. He says the film’s reflection on late-1990s resistance remains relevant today, and that young people speaking out on public issues continue to offer hope.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:35 WIB
Yemeni envoy urges global pressure on Houthis to end siege
Yemen’s ambassador to Indonesia has called for international pressure on the Houthis to lift blockades, particularly in Taiz, and appealed to Jakarta for humanitarian aid and support at the UN Security Council. He said Yemen is seeking a UN terrorist designation for the group after years of diplomacy failed, while ANTARA’s head voiced concern for the roughly 7,000 Indonesians living in Yemen.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:35 WIB
Quality Education Must Make a Tangible Difference to the Challenges Young People Face
MPR Deputy Speaker Edhie Baskoro Yudhoyono urged Indonesian students in Australia to use their education and international experience to build relevant skills and contribute to Indonesia. He also highlighted the role of student and parliamentary links in strengthening Indonesia–Australia relations, and said young people’s prospects must be assessed not only by job access but by whether work enables a decent standard of living and economic independence.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:34 WIB
Bima City Government Steps Up Central Government Coordination to Build Sekolah Rakyat
Bima City is coordinating with the Social Affairs and Forestry ministries to advance plans for a Sekolah Rakyat, a government boarding-school programme for children from poor and extremely poor families. The city has proposed the project to the Social Affairs Ministry and is seeking clarification on whether land previously earmarked for an Islamic state institute can be reassigned, while final land certification and preparation remain outstanding.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:33 WIB
Industry Minister: Industrial Gas and Food and Beverage Raw Materials Need Attention
Industry Minister Muhammad Sarmuji says reliable supplies and affordable prices for industrial gas and raw materials are essential to sustaining growth in Indonesia’s food and beverage sector, which grew 6.51% in the second quarter of 2026. He also highlighted expanding packaging demand and government measures to promote modern, environmentally responsible packaging, including mandatory standards for food-packaging paper and cardboard.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:33 WIB
PT Len prepares to produce radios and night-vision devices for defence
State-owned defence electronics company PT Len Industri says it is ready to produce radios for defence operations, including in Papua, and has secured Ministry of Defence backing to develop and manufacture night-vision goggles domestically. The initiatives form part of wider efforts to strengthen Indonesia’s defence-industrial capability, alongside PT Len’s role in the national electric motor programme.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:32 WIB
Houthis Attack Military Base in South-east Yemen, Killing 73
A Houthi attack on a security training centre at a military base in south-eastern Yemen has killed 73 people, according to Shabwa provincial authorities, with 14 others still unaccounted for. The attack has intensified renewed hostilities between the Houthis and Saudi-backed forces supporting Yemen’s government.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:31 WIB
MSCI’s ‘Brutal’ Proposal Puts Property Firms Under Equity and Liquidity Pressure
A sharp market sell-off, fuelled by concerns that MSCI may downgrade Indonesia’s market status, has intensified pressure on listed property developers. The article outlines the potential impact on market valuations, construction costs, debt and liquidity, and recommends tailored cash-preservation and restructuring measures for firms of different sizes.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:31 WIB
Greenpeace Banner Installers at Bundaran HI Released from Police Headquarters
Six people who unfurled Greenpeace banners at the Welcome Monument in central Jakarta were taken for medical checks and data collection before being allowed to return home at 8.30pm. The protest called on the government to address the climate crisis; police said public safety and a humane approach were priorities.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:30 WIB
Writers and Readers Meet Ahead of the 2026 Ubud Writers & Readers Festival
The 23rd Ubud Writers & Readers Festival will run from 21 to 25 October, bringing more than 150 writers, thinkers, journalists, artists and poets to Bali. A pre-festival gathering gave readers the chance to meet international authors and discover their books, ahead of a programme focused on awareness, empathy and action.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:30 WIB
After Tensions Flare, Protest at Yogyakarta Regional Council Disperses
A student protest outside the Yogyakarta Regional House of Representatives (DPRD DIY) ended after clashes with police and local residents, following attempts by demonstrators to enter the building. Council representatives said they had recorded the protesters’ 15 demands and would pass them on to the central government, but negotiations failed to satisfy the crowd.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:28 WIB
Nigerian-Indonesian Investment and Trade Forum 2026 to Strengthen Economic Partnership
The fifth Nigerian-Indonesian Investment and Trade Forum will take place in Jakarta on 20–21 October 2026, bringing together government officials and private-sector leaders to expand bilateral trade, investment and industrial cooperation. Organisers say the forum will target opportunities across sectors including agriculture, manufacturing, energy, mining and technology, with the aim of attracting investment, boosting exports, creating jobs and encouraging technology transfer.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:28 WIB
PNM Partners with PPI to Expand Markets for Mekaar Customers’ Products
State-owned PNM has signed a memorandum of understanding with state-owned trading company PPI to explore wider marketing and market access for products made by businesses it supports through the Mekaar programme. The partnership aims to connect ultra-micro entrepreneurs—many of them women—with broader distribution networks and potential buyers, addressing the limited reach of many Indonesian micro and small businesses.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:28 WIB
Khalid Basalamah admits paying US$554,500 to KPK through staff member
Preacher and Uhud Tour owner Khalid Basalamah told a Jakarta court that he had paid US$554,500 to the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK), in cash and bank transfers, through a staff member. He was testifying in the case over alleged corruption in the allocation and organisation of the 2023–2024 Hajj, in which former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas is a defendant; prosecutors allege the scheme caused state losses exceeding Rp622 billion and enriched several parties.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:28 WIB
Amran: Action against food cartels will go beyond administrative sanctions
National Food Agency head and Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman says companies violating food-sector rules could face fines tripled under criminal sanctions, in addition to administrative penalties. The government and law-enforcement agencies are widening enforcement to address irregularities across products including fortified rice, palm oil, animal feed, chicken and eggs.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:27 WIB
Bahlil Assures Public of Safe National Fuel Stocks, with Pertalite Supplies Lasting up to 18 Days
Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia says national fuel stocks are secure, with Pertalite reserves estimated to last 16–18 days and other fuel supplies exceeding 20 days. After shipping delays briefly reduced Bali’s stocks to three or four days, improved logistics have raised them to 11–12 days, while the government aims to build a 15-day reserve.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:22 WIB
TNI-Polri Help Clear Up Rubbish After Demonstration in Central Jakarta
Police, military and Jakarta provincial government personnel collected rubbish left around demonstration sites in Central Jakarta after securing a public rally. The police said the clean-up reflected a commitment to environmental care and urged residents to help protect shared public spaces and facilities.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:21 WIB
Singapore Embassy Delegation Studies Legal Aid Posts in West Jakarta’s Tamansari
A Singapore Embassy delegation visited Tamansari sub-district to learn about Indonesia’s community-level legal aid post (Posbankum) and its mediation services. Officials highlighted how neighbourhood leaders help connect residents with government, while the visit may open the way for ongoing exchanges as Jakarta pursues its global-city ambitions.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:20 WIB
Wingdik 600/Kal trains air force personnel as supply and logistics specialists
Wingdik 600/Kal is training Indonesian Air Force officers and enlisted personnel in supply and logistics to support operational needs. Its new simulator helps students practise operating aircraft-support vehicles, and graduates will be posted to air bases across Indonesia.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:20 WIB
DEN Says Downstreaming Exports Surged During Prabowo’s First Two Years in Office
Indonesia’s National Economic Council (DEN) projects exports of downstream mineral products to reach US$50 billion in 2026, up about 45% from 2024. It highlights growth in nickel, aluminium and lithium-battery components, while saying new smelter investment could push aluminium exports above US$10 billion in the future.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:19 WIB
BMKG uses dry-ice seeding to tackle fire haze in Sumatra and Kalimantan
Indonesia’s BMKG is deploying dry ice above atmospheric inversion layers in Sumatra and Kalimantan to help restore upward air movement and disperse smoke from forest and land fires. Preliminary monitoring has shown improved visibility and air quality in some areas, while the agency continues to assess the technique’s effectiveness using visibility and PM2.5 data.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:19 WIB
A Holistic Strategy to Keep Online Gambling at Bay
The Indonesian government has pursued a broad campaign against online gambling, targeting websites and apps, financial channels, addiction support and gambling operators. PPATK data show that the value of online gambling transactions fell 12.9 per cent year on year in the first half of 2026, although operators continue to seek new ways to reach Indonesians.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:19 WIB
EU allocates Rp4 billion to drought-hit areas of Indonesia
The European Union has allocated €200,000 (about Rp4.02 billion) for emergency humanitarian assistance to communities affected by prolonged drought across Indonesia. Working with the Indonesian Red Cross, the aid will provide clean water and health support to around 200,000 people, amid forecasts that moderate-to-strong El Niño conditions and a delayed rainy season will prolong the drought risk into early 2027.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:19 WIB
Menko Muhaimin: Empowerment Builds Community Self-Reliance
Coordinating Minister for Community Empowerment Abdul Muhaimin Iskandar says the government is shifting its poverty-reduction approach from providing assistance towards building long-term self-reliance. He said social assistance remains essential for vulnerable people, but must be paired with sustained capacity-building, stronger business development and wider market access so recipients can become productive economic actors and micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) can grow.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:17 WIB
Banten Police Set Up Lost Property Desk after KMP Batu Mandi Fire
Banten Police have opened a service desk at Merak Port to help passengers affected by the KMP Batu Mandi fire report lost valuables or documents and obtain loss certificates. The ferry was carrying 420 passengers and 89 vehicles; injured passengers received medical treatment, while survivors were assisted with onward transport. The cause of the fire and related matters, including vehicle conditions and insurance claims, remain under investigation.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:15 WIB
Iran Urges Azerbaijan to Address Hijab Restrictions as Dozens of Protesters Are Detained
Iran has urged Azerbaijan to take account of public concerns over restrictions on hijab in state schools, after the enforcement of school dress rules reportedly kept some Muslim girls out of class and led to protests and dozens of detentions. Baku says the rules uphold equality and the secular character of education, while critics argue that they infringe religious freedom and the right to education.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:13 WIB
Solok Regency strengthens disaster mitigation and accelerates post-disaster recovery
Solok Regency is coordinating with central government agencies to accelerate recovery from flash floods, including infrastructure reconstruction, economic support and the resumption of regional transfers. Officials and disaster experts also stressed stronger early-warning measures and inspections of landslide-prone river catchments to reduce the risk of further flooding.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:13 WIB
Photos of Kim Jong Un’s Visit Released by North Korean Media After Death Rumours
North Korean state media published photographs of Kim Jong Un visiting a clothing and footwear exhibition, countering online rumours that he had died after suffering a brain haemorrhage. The images have not been independently verified, and the timing of their capture remains unclear; the report also recalls longstanding concerns over Kim’s health and the implications of his sudden death for succession and stability.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:12 WIB
Industry Ministry Draws Up Shipbuilding Roadmap to Boost the Sector’s Contribution
The Industry Ministry is preparing a national shipbuilding roadmap for 2026–2030, targeting stronger shipyard capacity, technology, skills and domestic component use. The plans come as maritime transport activity grows, while imports of ships and related products continue to exceed exports, highlighting scope to expand domestic production.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:11 WIB
Red and White Fishing Village Programme Trades 719 Tonnes of Fish Worth Rp18.77 Billion
Indonesia’s Red and White Fishing Village (KNMP) programme has traded 719 tonnes of fish worth Rp18.77 billion across 65 pilot sites since operations began in June 2026. The government says the programme is strengthening coastal economies through an integrated fisheries supply chain, while a product from Lampung has reached China’s export market.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:10 WIB
Child Protection Index Rises as Efforts to Safeguard Children Improve, Says Ministry
Indonesia’s Child Protection Index rose to 72.40 in 2025, up 1.38 points from 2024, with the index’s special child protection cluster recording the strongest results. The Ministry for Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection says government services for women and children affected by violence have grown more capable, alongside greater public willingness to report abuse.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:10 WIB
Bangli Civil Servant Demoted to Lowest Job Grade for 72 Days of Unauthorised Absence
A Bangli civil servant received a 12-month demotion to the lowest job grade after being recorded as absent without explanation for 72 working days in the first half of 2026, including 14 consecutive days in June. The sanction was adjusted under civil service rules because he already held an implementing position; he had said some of his absence was due to illness and offered to provide hospital documentation.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:10 WIB
Jumhur: Environment Ministry Fines Six Companies Rp4.8 Trillion for Environmental Damage
Environment Minister and head of the Environmental Control Agency Moh Jumhur Hidayat says the ministry has imposed Rp4.8 trillion in fines on six companies accused of environmental damage, signalling a tougher enforcement approach. He also warned that environmental crime is increasingly organised and cross-regional, amid mounting climate, pollution and biodiversity crises.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:10 WIB
EU Considers Activating Blocking Statute to Shield ICC from US Sanctions
The European Commission says the EU is considering activating its Blocking Statute to protect International Criminal Court officials and operations from potential US sanctions, but no decision or timetable has been set. The move follows Washington’s announcement of sanctions aimed at disrupting the court, escalating the Trump administration’s campaign against the Hague-based institution.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:10 WIB
Suahasil Nazara Confirms Civil Servants’ Salaries Will Continue to Be Paid Through Banks, Not Merah Putih Cooperatives
Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara said civil servants’ salaries will continue to be transferred through the banking system, rejecting an alternative proposal to route payments through Merah Putih village and urban-ward cooperatives. The proposal had been submitted to the Finance Ministry, but details on funding, implementation and participating cooperatives remain unclear; existing bank-based payments are governed by a 2016 regulation.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:08 WIB
DEN: Digital Social Protection Trial Shows Welfare Aid Is Better Targeted
A nationwide trial of digitalising social protection has reduced errors in beneficiary data, potentially helping ensure welfare assistance reaches eligible households. The system has registered 11.5 million households across 514 districts and cities, while the government is also considering shifting some subsidies from product-based support to direct cash transfers.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:07 WIB
West Jakarta’s Baznas completes renovation of 62 homes in 2026
Baznas Bazis West Jakarta has completed and inaugurated 62 homes under its housing renovation programme for low-income families, against a 2026 target of 120 units. At about Rp55 million per home, the initiative is funded through zakat, infaq and sadaqah contributions and aims to provide safer, healthier housing while helping alleviate poverty.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:07 WIB
Parents’ approach can help teenagers set limits on social media use
Child and family psychologist Samanta Clara Elsener recommends two-way, relatable conversations to help teenagers limit their time on social media, rather than repeated lectures. She says strong parent-child connections and direct social interaction can support young people’s social skills, as health ministry figures show depression and anxiety indicators among children and adolescents are more than four times those of adults and older people.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:07 WIB
DEN: 95% of Students Receiving Free Nutritious Meals Are More Motivated to Learn
A study by the National Economic Council (DEN), Statistics Indonesia (BPS) and other institutions found that 95% of students receiving the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme reported greater motivation to learn when the meals were of high quality. The study also linked MBG receipt with lower absenteeism, while highlighting that the programme’s beneficiaries remain disproportionately concentrated in urban areas and among better-off households; DEN has urged the government to prioritise poorer communities, rural areas and disadvantaged regions.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:06 WIB
KMP Batumandi Passenger Says Fire Began with Black Smoke and Explosion
A passenger aboard the KMP Batumandi said black smoke and an explosion came from the vehicle deck as the ferry was approaching Merak port, prompting passengers to seek life jackets and evacuate via an emergency slide. ASDP said it was coordinating with port authorities and emergency services; the cause of the fire has not yet been established.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:06 WIB
Economist: KUR should shift towards building MSME capacity
CORE Indonesia economist Yusuf Rendy Manilet says the People’s Business Credit (KUR) programme should prioritise improving micro, small and medium-sized enterprises’ (MSMEs) revenue, profits and job creation, rather than simply increasing loan disbursements. He also calls for better measurement of outcomes, stronger market access and integrated support data, as MSME credit growth lags behind overall bank lending and fewer than half the targeted borrowers have moved up to commercial financing.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:06 WIB
KAI North Sumatra Regional Division receives seven additional locomotives to strengthen operations
KAI’s North Sumatra Regional Division has received seven locomotives transferred from the company’s Palembang and Tanjung Karang divisions to bolster railway operations in the province. A further four locomotives had arrived in March 2026 and are already in service.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:06 WIB
KMP Batumandi Passenger’s Account: Ship Filled with Smoke as Fishermen Rush to Help
Passengers aboard the KMP Batumandi were rescued by local fishermen after the ferry caught fire while approaching Merak Port in Banten. One passenger described panic, smoke-related breathing difficulties and injuries during the evacuation, with some people jumping into the sea from the third deck.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:05 WIB
Indonesia Extinguishes Fires Across 454 Hectares in Key Regions
Indonesia’s disaster agency says firefighters have extinguished 454 hectares of land fires, with operations continuing across another 570 hectares in six provinces. The imminent rainy season, expected to begin from October in several affected areas, may help suppress the remaining hotspots.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:03 WIB
From Night-time Research to National Duties in Nagoya
Around 30 Indonesian students in Nagoya are balancing their studies with volunteer work supporting Indonesia’s contingent at the 2026 Asian Para Games in Aichi-Nagoya. Led by Nanzan University doctoral student and Indonesian Students’ Association chair Flady Faliyenco Franggaratz Abubakar Pae, they have helped establish the contingent’s headquarters and are assisting with accommodation, logistics and interpretation while ensuring facilities meet athletes’ accessibility needs.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:03 WIB
Shin Tae-yong Responds to Reports of Point Deduction for Persija
Persija Jakarta head coach Shin Tae-yong said he was unaware of any regulation allowing points to be deducted solely over supporter disturbances, noting that FIFA typically applies such penalties in cases of match-fixing. He urged authorities to deal firmly with violence and called on fans to behave responsibly, warning that misconduct could lead to matches being played behind closed doors.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:02 WIB
BMKG warns of strong winds in North Sulawesi due to Cyclone Champi
BMKG has urged residents and maritime operators in North Sulawesi and surrounding areas to prepare for strong winds and high waves caused indirectly by Tropical Cyclone Champi. Waves of up to four metres are forecast in several waters, while the agency advises the public to monitor official updates and take precautions against extreme weather.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:02 WIB
Finance Ministry pursues 6% growth through measured fiscal policy
Indonesia’s Finance Ministry is targeting 6% economic growth in 2027, using measured fiscal policy to support investment, consumption and productivity while cushioning global risks. The draft 2027 budget sets a 2.4% deficit-to-GDP ratio and prioritises education, social protection, health and food security; officials also stress the importance of policy certainty and public-private coordination.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:00 WIB
Social Affairs Minister Gus Ipul: People’s Schools Combine Education and Empowerment
The Social Affairs Ministry says its People’s Schools programme has enrolled more than 44,000 pupils across 182 locations, targeting children from disadvantaged families who have had limited access to education. The initiative combines schooling with family economic empowerment, while the government is expanding permanent facilities and digital learning resources as part of efforts to break the cycle of poverty.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:00 WIB
Houthi Missile Strike on Yemeni Military Camp Kills 58
A Houthi missile attack on a government security forces training camp in Yemen’s Shabwa province reportedly killed 58 people and injured more than 200, with 14 still missing. The strike comes amid escalating fighting near the strategically important Bab el-Mandeb Strait and a wider regional conflict, deepening Yemen’s already severe humanitarian crisis.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:58 WIB
North Jakarta administration joins forces with religious leaders to promote tolerance
North Jakarta’s administration is working with religious and community leaders to strengthen interfaith tolerance and prevent social conflict in the diverse port city. Officials highlighted the risks of digital disinformation and said sustained dialogue and cross-community cooperation can help preserve harmony and support urban development.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:57 WIB
PT Len targets completion of 13 GCI radar installations by 2027
PT Len Industri aims to complete the installation of 13 ground control intercept (GCI) radars by 2027 to strengthen Indonesia’s national air defence system, with installations completed at two sites so far. The project, undertaken in cooperation with France, faces challenges including the readiness of supporting infrastructure and integration with other branches of the Indonesian military.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:56 WIB
Idrus Marham Confident Golkar Can Become a Party of the Future Under Bahlil-Sarmuji
Golkar deputy chairman Idrus Marham says the party must move beyond its record in national development and offer ideas and practical work that address Indonesia’s needs. He believes the leadership of Bahlil Lahadalia and Muhammad Sarmuji can drive that transformation, arguing that parties must shape policy debates rather than rely solely on votes and parliamentary seats.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:55 WIB
BNPB Uses Dry Ice to Disperse Haze from Forest and Land Fires: The Results
Indonesia’s National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) says dry-ice cloud-seeding trials in Palembang improved visibility, as authorities continue fighting fires across six priority provinces. By 19 October, crews had extinguished 454.25 hectares of a targeted 1,024.33 hectares; BNPB has also tightened dispersal procedures after reports of dry ice falling in residential areas.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:55 WIB
Trias Politika: Prabowo-Gibran Government Strengthens Public Welfare in Two Years
Trias Politika Strategis executive director Agung Baskoro says the Prabowo-Gibran administration has improved and expanded welfare programmes during its first two years, including initiatives aimed at supporting low-income households. He cautioned that a larger pool of beneficiaries must be matched by accurate, transparent data updates to ensure assistance reaches vulnerable groups and effectively reduces poverty.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:54 WIB
Suahasil insists civil servants’ salaries will continue to be paid through banks
Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara said civil servants’ salaries will continue to be transferred through the banking system, despite a proposal to route payments through Merah Putih village and urban-ward cooperatives. The Cooperatives Ministry says it has submitted the proposal to the Finance Ministry, but the budget, payment mechanism and launch date have not been detailed.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:52 WIB
UN: Funding Crisis Threatens Food and Nutrition Aid in Afghanistan
The UN warns that nearly 19.2 million people in Afghanistan could face acute food insecurity this winter as funding shortages undermine humanitarian services. More than four million young children are expected to need treatment for acute malnutrition next year, while restrictions on women further weaken essential education and healthcare provision.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:52 WIB
Army Pays Last Respects to Former Chief of Staff General Subagyo
The Indonesian Army held a military funeral in Jakarta for former Army Chief of Staff General (Ret.) Subagyo Hadi Siswoyo, who died aged 80. President Prabowo Subianto and senior military leaders attended the ceremonies, honouring Subagyo’s service to the Army.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:51 WIB
KMP Batu Mandi Catches Fire off Merak with 420 Passengers and 89 Vehicles on Board
KMP Batu Mandi caught fire while sailing from Bakauheni to Merak, with 420 passengers and 89 vehicles on board. Passengers were evacuated, given health checks and temporary accommodation, while authorities arranged transport and help replacing lost documents; the cause and full extent of the incident were not stated.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:50 WIB
Stakeholders’ roles in the cultural ecosystem need to be defined, says agency
Jakarta’s regional planning agency says the roles of multiple stakeholders must be clearly defined to build a sustainable cultural ecosystem, addressing inconsistent festival curation and fragmented event schedules. The agency argues that stronger coordination could also help improve the capital’s standing in global city rankings; Jakarta rose to 71st in the 2025 Global Cities Index.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:50 WIB
Orders for Barges and Tugboats in Indonesia Plunge as Shipbuilders Shift Focus
Demand for vessels serving the mining sector has fallen by 60%, prompting Indonesian shipyards to redirect production towards tankers and other vessels for fuel transport. Iperindo says its members can build about 1,200 new ships annually, while the government’s 2026–2030 roadmap aims to expand domestic shipbuilding capacity, including for larger tankers.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:48 WIB
KAI Explains Why Commuter Train Travelled Slowly with Door Open in Depok
A technical fault caused by a foreign object lodged beneath a door led a Commuter Line train to travel slowly with the door open near Depok. KAI Commuter said staff guarded the door and imposed a speed restriction under safety procedures; the incident delayed the service by 10 minutes.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:47 WIB
PNM and PPI open up market-expansion opportunities for Mekaar clients’ products
State-owned PNM and PPI have signed a memorandum of understanding to explore wider marketing opportunities for products made by PNM Mekaar clients, many of whom are women running ultra-micro businesses. The partnership aims to connect promising products with suitable markets, potentially including national sales and exports, addressing a gap highlighted by Bappenas research showing that most surveyed micro and small businesses serve only local customers.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:46 WIB
Indonesia accelerates sabo dam projects to strengthen flood defences in Aceh
Indonesia’s Public Works Ministry plans to build 42 sabo dams in disaster-prone areas of Aceh, expanding its initial target of 40, with the full programme scheduled for completion by 2028. The work forms part of a wider river-basin recovery plan and includes dredging estuaries, reinforcing riverbanks and removing silt to reduce the risk of flash floods and overflows.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:45 WIB
Orphaned Student in East Manggarai Goes Viral After Being Bullied
A Year 10 student at SMAK Pancasila Borong in East Manggarai, East Nusa Tenggara, was filmed being bullied by fellow students after school. The local women’s empowerment and child-protection agency is providing psychological support to the victim and those involved, while the school has pledged to address the incident with children’s safety and rights in mind.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:45 WIB
Rosan Says Danantara Will Invest in Shares Gradually
Danantara CEO Rosan Roeslani says the state investment agency will enter the stock market in stages, using company fundamentals, technical analysis and market sentiment to guide its decisions. He said market declines could present long-term opportunities, particularly in state-owned companies with attractive valuations and strong businesses.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:45 WIB
Minister: ALLPack Indonesia 2026’s Vibrant Turnout Reflects Economic Optimism
Industry Minister Muhammad Sarmuji says the strong attendance and international participation at ALLPack Indonesia 2026 reflect confidence in Indonesia’s economic prospects. The packaging and processing exhibition brings together around 1,600 exhibitors from 42 countries and highlights technology adoption, investment and sustainable packaging, as manufacturing and food and beverage industries continue to grow.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:45 WIB
DHL Deploys Wuling EVs to Advance Green Logistics
DHL Express Indonesia has added 30 Wuling Mitra EV Blind Van Long Range vehicles to its fleet, deploying them across Jakarta, Surabaya, Bandung and Semarang to reduce emissions from deliveries. The move reflects rising corporate focus on sustainability and extends the company’s green logistics efforts beyond Jakarta to other major trade and logistics centres.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:45 WIB
US blocks DeepSeek from federal civilian networks over security risks
The United States has barred China’s DeepSeek from accessing federal civilian agency networks, citing espionage and cybersecurity concerns, and ordered agencies to remove its software and related applications. Beijing condemned the move as an abuse of national security arguments and said it would protect the legitimate interests of Chinese companies.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:43 WIB
All Passengers on KMP Batumandi Evacuated Safely, Transport Ministry Says
All passengers and crew aboard the KMP Batumandi were evacuated safely after a fire broke out in the entrance channel to Merak on Tuesday afternoon, with no fatalities reported. Authorities coordinated a multi-agency response, while the cause of the fire and the vessel’s condition remain subject to further investigation.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:41 WIB
Central Jakarta City Administration Targets Renovation of 94 Homes for Low-Income Residents in 2026
Central Jakarta plans to renovate 94 homes for underprivileged residents in 2026 through its regular programme and corporate social responsibility support. A collaboration involving PT SupraJaya Duaribu Satu and the Central Jakarta branch of the National Zakat Agency has helped build eight homes between 2024 and 2026, with four beneficiaries receiving keys at a recent handover.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:41 WIB
DEN: Data-driven contingency plans needed to prepare for El Niño and La Niña
Indonesia’s National Economic Council (DEN) has urged the government to prepare data-based contingency plans for El Niño, expected to persist until early 2027, and the possible onset of La Niña. Preparations should address drought, flooding and other disaster risks while protecting food supplies and keeping prices stable.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:41 WIB
Merah Putih Village Cooperatives: From Formation to Operations
By mid-October 2026, 83,363 Merah Putih village and urban-ward cooperatives had legal status, but only 10,070 completed premises were deemed ready for full operations. Meanwhile, 2,757 cooperatives had already begun trading, recording 98,130 transactions worth Rp348.95 billion, as new regulations assign Agrinas a role in supporting operations during a two-year transition to independence.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:41 WIB
Bahlil says Golkar upholds presumption of innocence over Gibran’s diploma
Golkar chairman Bahlil Lahadalia said the party would respect the legal process and uphold the presumption of innocence amid controversy over Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s educational credentials. The Constitutional Court said it found no supporting document proving Gibran held an overseas qualification equivalent to senior secondary education, while Gibran said he respected the ruling and would focus on his duties.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:40 WIB
OJK Chief Denies Only Taking Tough Action After MSCI Threat
OJK chief Friderica Widyasari Dewi says investigations and sanctions over suspected capital-market violations require time and due process, rejecting claims the regulator acted only after MSCI threatened to downgrade Indonesia’s market. She says broad reforms have been under way since January, including greater shareholder disclosures, publication of high-shareholding-concentration data and work towards a 15% free-float requirement.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:40 WIB
Home Affairs Ministry Approves Asep Surya Atmaja as Bekasi Regent
Indonesia’s Home Affairs Ministry has approved Asep Surya Atmaja’s appointment as Bekasi Regent for the remainder of the 2025–2030 term, following the dismissal of Ade Kuswara Kunang after his conviction for corruption. Asep’s inauguration is expected to take place in Bekasi on Friday, 23 October, subject to final arrangements.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:40 WIB
Director: Youthful spirit in ‘Laut Bercerita’ resonates across borders
Director Yosep Anggi Noen says the film’s themes of resistance, injustice and patriotism resonate beyond Indonesia, citing an international viewer who connected its story to South Korea’s 1980s student movement in Gwangju. Adapted from Leila S. Chudori’s bestselling novel, the film is scheduled to open in Indonesian cinemas on 29 October 2026.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:38 WIB
Environment Ministry Prepares East Sumba Savanna Protection Project with IUCN from 2027
Indonesia’s Environment Ministry and the International Union for Conservation of Nature are preparing a science-based ecosystem protection project in East Sumba, due to begin in 2027. The LENTERA programme will assess ecosystem risks across three Wallacea pilot areas and combine conservation planning with local knowledge and community welfare.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:36 WIB
Luhut Says Indonesia to Begin Downstream Processing of Kratom and Benzoin Soon
National Economic Council chair Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan says President Prabowo Subianto plans to launch downstream processing of kratom and benzoin, with a research centre in North Sumatra intended to support the initiative. The products could generate tens of billions of dollars, while Indonesia already supplies 96 per cent of the kratom imported by the United States, with exports valued at US$350 million.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:36 WIB
Indonesia targets 500 permanent People’s Schools in four years
The government aims to establish 500 permanent People’s School facilities within three to four years, with capacity for more than one million students, expanding a programme currently serving over 44,000 students at 182 locations. The initiative targets children from the lowest-income households and those who have never attended or have dropped out of school, while also providing family empowerment support and expanding digital learning.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:35 WIB
Luhut Proposes Reviewing Definition of Corruption; President Agrees
National Economic Council chair Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan says President Prabowo Subianto has approved a review of Indonesia’s definition of corruption to bring its handling in line with international standards. Luhut argues that treating state losses as a key element of corruption can expose businesses to criminal liability for ordinary commercial risks, while Indonesia’s ratification of the UN Convention against Corruption covers offences beyond bribery.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:33 WIB
Sobbing, 11 Little Aresha Daycare Carers Admit Fault and Ask for Leniency
Eleven carers at Little Aresha daycare have asked for lighter sentences, expressing remorse while arguing that they worked under a system controlled by the foundation’s chairwoman and lacked authority over policies. Prosecutors have sought five years’ imprisonment, a Rp250 million fine and Rp14 million in restitution for each defendant; some carers cited contract pressure, withheld diplomas and difficult personal circumstances in their pleas.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:31 WIB
Prabowo Cuts Red Tape to Boost Downstream Investment and Introduces Automatic Permits
President Prabowo Subianto is seeking to attract higher-quality investment by expanding industrial downstreaming and speeding up licensing, with downstreaming’s share of investment rising to 35% in the third quarter of 2026 from about 26% in 2024. The Investment Ministry has also integrated permits across 28 government agencies and issued around 328 approvals through a ‘positive fiction’ mechanism when agencies miss deadlines, while a new target aims to reduce processing of limited-stay permits for foreign workers to five days.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:30 WIB
Shooting Near Mosque Leaves One Dead
One person was killed in a shooting at an apartment complex car park near a mosque in Columbus, Ohio. Police said the incident began with a dispute and was not an attack on the mosque or worshippers inside, despite initial reports describing it as a shooting at a mosque.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:29 WIB
Prabowo Agrees to DEN Proposal to Revise Definition of Corruption in Line with UNCAC
President Prabowo Subianto has agreed to a National Economic Council (DEN) proposal to align Indonesia’s statutory definition of corruption with the UN Convention against Corruption (UNCAC). DEN chair Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan says the convention focuses largely on bribery, while Indonesia’s emphasis on state losses is often seen as an obstacle to corporate activity.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:29 WIB
Mandatory Halal Certification Delayed Until 2028; MUI Deputy Chair Urges Public to Continue Choosing Halal-Labelled Products
Indonesia’s mandatory halal-certification deadline has been pushed back from 2026 to 2028, prompting the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) to urge consumers to continue buying products bearing halal labels. MUI Deputy Chair Muhammad Cholil Nafis said the delay weakens certainty for consumers and could make it harder to identify halal products, while stressing that the issue concerns religious rights as well as regulation.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:29 WIB
Luhut Proposes Removing State Losses from the Definition of Corruption, Explaining His Reasons
National Economic Council chair Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan has proposed that state losses no longer be included in the definition of corruption, arguing that the provision constrains state-owned businesses, including Danantara. He said President Prabowo Subianto agreed to a review of the definition based on the UN Convention against Corruption, which Indonesia has ratified.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:29 WIB
Yemen Urges International Community to Press Houthis to Lift Blockade
Yemen is calling on the international community to pressure the Houthis to lift blockades, particularly in Taiz, and allow humanitarian aid and essential supplies to reach civilians. Its ambassador to Indonesia also sought support for the government’s proposals to the United Nations, including designating the Houthis as an international terrorist group, while stressing that Yemen remains open to a peaceful resolution.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:29 WIB
Bahlil Says Gibran Diploma Dispute Is Part of Democracy
Golkar chairman Bahlil Lahadalia says the legal challenge over Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s diploma should be handled through due process and regarded as part of democracy. Gibran says he respects the Constitutional Court’s proceedings and will focus on the President’s agenda, adding that he continued to undergraduate study after completing secondary-level education.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:27 WIB
KNPS and the Aditya Ramadhan Institute Share Happiness with Senen Housing Residents
KNPS and the Aditya Ramadhan Institute marked two years of the Prabowo-Gibran administration by distributing staple food and healthy meals to residents of Senen Housing in Jakarta. The complex has 300 homes for people previously living beside railway tracks, with 270 already occupied; KNPS says it will also offer training to help residents develop livelihoods and start businesses.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:27 WIB
Ombudsman Offers Four Recommendations to Improve PLN Batam Services after Blackout
The Ombudsman’s Riau Islands office has urged PLN Batam to strengthen infrastructure maintenance, communicate cautiously about outages, review its proposed 10 per cent compensation and fully cooperate with police investigators. The recommendations follow a blackout on 12 October 2026 that PLN Batam attributed to an equipment failure at Sungai Harapan substation, with power restoration taking until 14 October in Bintan.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:25 WIB
KAI Cirebon promotes local culture through station redesign
KAI’s Cirebon operating area is redesigning key parts of Cirebon Station, combining local cultural features with modern facilities to improve the passenger experience and showcase the city’s identity. The railway operator is also using an updated digital system to integrate inspections and maintenance records for railway infrastructure.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:24 WIB
Government Responds to Greenpeace Action: Climate Crisis and Cost of Living Are Presidential Priorities
The government says it respects Greenpeace’s protest in central Jakarta and recognises concerns over the climate crisis and rising living costs as priorities for the President. It cited a Rp 26.34 trillion stimulus package, food assistance, additional rice supplies and a commitment to keep fuel prices unchanged through the end of 2026, while inviting Greenpeace to submit policy recommendations.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:24 WIB
CCTV Was Not Pointed at Transformer During Batam-Bintan Blackout as Police Investigate Suspected Sabotage
Indonesia’s Criminal Investigation Agency is investigating whether negligence or deliberate sabotage caused the 12 October blackout across Batam and Bintan. Five people have been named as suspects, while investigators examine an initial short circuit and why a CCTV camera at the Sei Harapan substation was not facing Transformer 1.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:23 WIB
Manpower Ministry urges workplaces to provide AEDs as first-aid equipment
Indonesia’s Manpower Ministry is urging employers to provide automated external defibrillators (AEDs) and trained first-aid personnel, citing the burden of heart disease among workers and the critical first five minutes after sudden cardiac arrest. It also stresses that workplace health measures should address underlying risks such as long shifts, stress, inactivity and exposure to harmful substances.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:22 WIB
Luhut: Downstreaming of Kratom and Benzoin Targeted for March 2027
The government is preparing plans to develop downstream processing for kratom and benzoin, with a launch targeted for March 2027. The initiative is expected to include a genomics research centre near Lake Toba and aims to add value to agricultural commodities by tapping potential markets.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:22 WIB
ALLPack Indonesia 2026 Brings Together 1,600 Exhibitors from 42 Countries, Targeting Industry Investment Opportunities
ALLPack Indonesia 2026 is being held in Jakarta from 20 to 23 October, bringing together more than 1,600 exhibitors from 42 countries across packaging, processing and related industries. With over 65 educational and business events—including sessions on investment incentives and business-matching programmes—the exhibition aims to connect companies with technology, partners and potential investment opportunities.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:21 WIB
DIY DPRD Rejects Proposal to Pay Civil Servants’ Salaries Through Merah Putih Cooperatives, Citing Data-Leak Risks
The chair of the DIY DPRD’s Commission A, Eko Suwanto, has rejected a proposal to channel civil servants’ salaries through Merah Putih village and urban-ward cooperatives, arguing that it offers no urgent benefit and could expose sensitive employee data. He says the existing salary system is functioning reliably, with 12,077 provincial employees paid on the first of each month through Bank BPD DIY.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:20 WIB
Singapore Dollar Quietly Hits Rp14,000 as Many People Cash In
The Singapore dollar closed at Rp14,084 on 19 October 2026, up 8.7% against the rupiah since the start of the year, prompting holders to sell and realise gains. Its strength reflects Singapore’s exchange-rate policy and Indonesia’s currency pressures, while tourism, trade, investment, education and healthcare sustain Indonesian demand for the currency.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:19 WIB
Teenager Drowns While Riding a Boat on Lake at Banten Provincial Government Centre
A 15-year-old boy drowned after falling from a boat while playing on a retention lake at the Banten Provincial Government Centre in Serang. Search and rescue personnel found him at about 6pm and took him to Bhayangkara Hospital, where he was confirmed dead.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:18 WIB
Basarnas Continues Searching Kalimantan Waters for Remaining Victims of Virgo Ship
Basarnas is continuing its search for victims of the Virgo Transport 8, which sank in the Java Sea on 13 September 2026, with 53 people still missing. The operation has entered its 38th day, and search teams are sweeping westward waters while monitoring plans to salvage the wreck, which could help recover victims trapped inside.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:18 WIB
PBB: Do not let voters’ voices be wasted because of the parliamentary threshold
The Crescent Star Party (PBB), together with the United Development Party (PPP) and Partai Elang, has asked the Constitutional Court to review provisions on party verification and the parliamentary threshold. PBB is not seeking to abolish the threshold, but wants parties below it to be able to combine with others so their votes can count towards House seats, while also seeking clearer and fairer verification rules ahead of the 2029 election.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:15 WIB
Government Trials Dry-Ice Weather Modification in South Sumatra and Central Kalimantan to Reduce Haze from Forest and Land Fires
The government is testing dry ice alongside conventional salt-based cloud seeding in South Sumatra and Central Kalimantan, hoping to induce rainfall and reduce smoke from forest and land fires. On 19 October, the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) carried out eight seeding sorties across the two provinces, while officials stressed that operations depend on suitable atmospheric conditions and cloud availability.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:15 WIB
Prabowo Agrees to Luhut’s Proposal to Change Indonesia’s Definition of Corruption
President Prabowo Subianto has agreed to a National Economic Council study proposing that Indonesia’s definition of corruption focus on bribery rather than state losses. Council chair Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan says the change would bring enforcement into line with international standards and give Danantara greater confidence to make business decisions involving risk.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:14 WIB
Amnesty International Calls for Sanctions Against Israeli Officials Over Human Rights Violations
Amnesty International has urged governments to sanction Israeli officials credibly implicated in serious breaches of international law and to act against settler attacks on Palestinians in the occupied West Bank. It also called for an end to trade, investment and cooperation that sustain Israel’s occupation, warning that condemnations without concrete action will allow abuses to continue.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:13 WIB
West Jakarta Prosecutor’s Office and LPSK begin distributing compensation to Indosurya victims
The West Jakarta Prosecutor’s Office and Indonesia’s Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) have begun distributing Rp229.43 billion in restitution to 3,317 victims of the Indosurya savings and loan cooperative fraud. The first payment comes from recovered and auctioned assets, while verified losses total Rp8.06 trillion; officials say efforts to trace and sell remaining assets will continue and warn victims about scams demanding extra fees.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:12 WIB
Discovery Kartika Plaza Hotel and Discovery Mall Bali Celebrate Anniversaries in Style
Discovery Kartika Plaza Hotel marked its 36th anniversary alongside the 22nd anniversary of Discovery Mall Bali with a celebration in Kuta, featuring cultural performances, community initiatives and environmental activities. The event also highlighted the TUKA Rewards loyalty scheme, which offers shoppers a chance to win prizes worth up to Rp750 million.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:12 WIB
UK to Deploy Typhoon Fighter Jets to Saudi Arabia to Counter Houthi Missile and Drone Attacks
The UK will send RAF Typhoon jets to Saudi Arabia for air-defence missions against Houthi missiles and drones, while ruling out offensive strikes in Yemen. The deployment expands military support for Riyadh amid escalating regional attacks, with London warning that Gulf instability could raise energy and living costs for the UK.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:11 WIB
FDI Outpaces Domestic Investment with Strong Annual Growth
Foreign direct investment accounted for just over half of Indonesia’s realised investment in the first nine months of 2026, reversing the trend seen in 2025 when domestic investors led. Third-quarter realised investment reached Rp528.7 trillion, up 7.6 per cent year on year, while FDI grew 27 per cent and generated part of the total’s 745,634 jobs.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:11 WIB
Geothermal Project Opens Up Mountain Access and Employs 2,000 Local Workers
PT Pertamina Geothermal Energy says its projects improve access to isolated mountain areas by supporting road construction and create new economic activity. The company employs at least 210 local residents in routine operations, rising to as many as 2,000 during peak power-plant construction, while officials urge greater direct use of geothermal energy for nearby communities.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:10 WIB
Many of Indonesia’s Oil Wells Are Ageing: Contractors’ Proposed Solution
Most of Indonesia’s oil and gas fields have reached mature or late-life production stages, putting pressure on output as demand far exceeds current production. Pertamina Hulu Energi says new-basin exploration and accelerated major projects, backed by long-term investment and stronger stakeholder coordination, are needed to address the shortfall.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:08 WIB
Joint team records KM Batumandi passengers after fire
ASDP Indonesia Ferry, police and other stakeholders are verifying the passenger manifest and assisting those evacuated from the KM Batumandi after a fire broke out as the vessel was docking at Merak Port. The cause of the fire is not yet known, and ASDP says it will support the authorities’ investigation and provide updates as findings are verified.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:08 WIB
Cileungsi River Turns Ominously Black, Like Oil, Amid Pollution
Residents near the Cileungsi River in Bogor say its water has turned black and emitted a strong smell, affecting daily life and local businesses. Bogor Regent Rudy Susmanto says the local environmental agency is tracing suspected factory outlets, has closed some unauthorised channels and plans to build wastewater treatment plants, while some permits fall under central government authority.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:07 WIB
Luhut Proposes to Prabowo That State Losses Should Not Constitute Corruption
Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan says President Prabowo Subianto has agreed with a National Economic Council study arguing that corruption should be defined in line with the UN convention and should not include state financial losses as a standalone element. Luhut says the current approach burdens businesses, while Indonesian anti-corruption law currently criminalises acts causing state losses under Articles 2 and 3.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:06 WIB
KPK Searches Klaten Regent Hamenang’s Home, Seizes Cash and Jewellery
The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) says it seized cash, jewellery, documents and electronic evidence in searches linked to Klaten Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo, who is under investigation over alleged bribery to alter a state audit. Investigators allege that Hamenang negotiated a Rp400 million payment in exchange for removing findings of about Rp5 billion in excess honorarium payments from Klaten’s audit report; three people have been named suspects and detained.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:05 WIB
Dry Ice Falls into Residential Areas, BNPB Installs Special Screens on Aircraft
Indonesia’s National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has tightened procedures for dispersing dry ice from aircraft after residents reported material falling into their neighbourhoods during weather-modification operations. Special screens and finer particles are intended to ensure the dry ice evaporates before reaching the ground, as authorities deploy aircraft and ground teams to combat forest and land fires across six priority provinces.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:05 WIB
Luhut Warns Prabowo About El Niño and La Niña: What Is at Stake?
The National Economic Council has warned President Prabowo Subianto that El Niño and La Niña could disrupt food production, increase flood and drought risks, and push up food prices. It recommends data-led contingency planning, including food-stock management, adjusted planting schedules, water pumps, market operations and health services in areas affected by forest and peatland fires.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:04 WIB
UK to Deploy Typhoon Jets to Saudi Arabia to Counter Houthi Threat
The UK will deploy RAF Typhoon fighters and other support to Saudi Arabia to help defend its airspace and key infrastructure from Houthi missile and drone attacks, while ruling out offensive strikes by the jets. London said it would also provide military advisers and extend aerial refuelling support, citing regional escalation and potential effects on energy supplies, living costs and British businesses.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:04 WIB
KPK Receives Rp250 Million Returned by Nias PCNU, Allegedly Linked to NU Congress
Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) says it has received and seized Rp250 million returned by the Nias branch of Nahdlatul Ulama, reportedly in connection with the organisation’s 35th Congress. Investigators are examining whether the money is linked to alleged bribery and other receipts involving the Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency (ATR/BPN); it will be retained as evidence if a connection is established, or returned otherwise.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:02 WIB
BPK holds ARISE 2026 training programme with five countries
Indonesia’s Audit Board (BPK) is running its ARISE 2026 programme for supreme audit institutions from Palau, Papua New Guinea, Tuvalu, Vanuatu and Timor-Leste. The training focuses on performance auditing of blue-economy issues and aims to strengthen participants’ auditing skills and institutional capacity, as part of Indonesia’s wider international development cooperation.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:01 WIB
Lamongan Police Uncover Assault Case Involving Teenager in Pucuk
Lamongan police have detained five people over the alleged group assault of a 17-year-old in Pucuk, which investigators say followed a challenge between martial arts groups on social media. The victim suffered cuts and other injuries; three of those detained are children in conflict with the law, and police are pursuing charges under the Criminal Code and Child Protection Law.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:00 WIB
Heat and Dust Disrupt Learning at Nagekeo Emergency School After Earthquake
Students at SD Inpres Marapokot in Nagekeo are continuing lessons in emergency tents after an earthquake, despite discomfort caused by heat and wind-blown dust. The local education and culture office has allowed affected schools to shorten the school day, with pupils now permitted to leave by 11 a.m. rather than 1 p.m.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:00 WIB
Religious Affairs Ministry Seeks to Strengthen Madrasah Committee Members’ Capacity to Improve Quality
Indonesia’s Religious Affairs Ministry says stronger madrasah committees can help channel community support, including financial, moral and advisory contributions, more effectively. It argues that building committee members’ capacity will help improve the quality and development of madrasahs.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:00 WIB
If the AI Bubble Bursts, the Global Economy Could Crumble
The IMF has warned that a sharp correction in AI-related investments could hit technology shares and spread through the global economy, particularly as data-centre operators and investors take on more debt. It also highlighted the sector’s financial interdependence, rising interest-rate risks and AI-enabled cyberattacks, while signs of weaker-than-expected revenues have begun to challenge hopes of rapid profits.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:58 WIB
KI Sumut Award 2026 Names 24 Districts and Cities ‘Informative’
Twenty-four districts and cities in North Sumatra received the ‘Informative’ rating at the 2026 provincial public information awards, alongside public bodies from provincial agencies, election supervisory boards and state-owned enterprises. North Sumatra’s deputy governor said openness should be embedded in public-sector working culture and deliver tangible benefits to residents, rather than serving merely as an administrative requirement or route to an award.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:57 WIB
Passenger: Fire on KMP Batumandi Began with Black Smoke, Followed by Explosion
A passenger said black smoke and an explosion preceded a fire aboard the KMP Batumandi as it approached Merak port, prompting passengers to evacuate using an emergency slide. ASDP said it was coordinating with port authorities and rescue agencies, while the cause of the incident remains unknown and an investigation is expected.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:57 WIB
PKB Expresses Condolences Over Bromo Fire Disaster
The National Awakening Party (PKB) has expressed condolences to the family of a man killed in the forest and land fires in the Mount Bromo area, which claimed five lives. The party also called for stronger protection for responders, better safety equipment and coordination, and greater emphasis on fire prevention and preparedness.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:55 WIB
Will Civil Servants’ Salaries Be Paid Through Cooperatives? Suahasil Confirms They Will Still Be Transferred Directly
Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara says civil servants’ salaries will continue to be transferred directly to their individual bank accounts, despite a proposal for cooperatives to handle payments. The proposal, raised by the Cooperatives Ministry, remains under discussion and is linked to a draft law that would expand cooperatives’ role and oversight framework.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:55 WIB
Indonesian Embassy targets US$15 million in export commitments at Paris food fair
The Indonesian Embassy in Paris is facilitating the participation of 13 Indonesian food and beverage companies in SIAL Paris 2026, with a target of US$15 million in export commitments. The embassy says the fair offers an opportunity to build lasting relationships with European importers and distributors and strengthen the presence and competitiveness of Indonesian products in the market.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:55 WIB
YINGFA to Showcase TOPCon 3.0 Multi-Cut and XBC 2.0 Solar Cells at REI 2026
YINGFA will present its TOPCon 3.0 multi-cut and XBC 2.0 solar cells at Renewable Energy India Expo 2026, highlighting efficiencies of 27.3% and up to 28.4%, respectively. With manufacturing facilities in China and Indonesia and customer support in India, the company is seeking to deepen partnerships with Indian solar module manufacturers.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:54 WIB
Viral Video Shows Online Motorcycle Taxi Driver Assaulted by Illegal Parking Attendants in South Jakarta; Police Investigate
An online motorcycle taxi driver was allegedly assaulted by three people after a dispute over a Rp2,000 parking fee in Kalibata, South Jakarta. Police have confirmed that a report was filed and say the suspects are still under investigation.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:54 WIB
Prabowo Promotes Public Welfare Through Nutrition, Education and Health Programmes
Golkar Secretary-General Muhammad Sarmuji says the Prabowo-Gibran administration is placing people, particularly lower-income groups, at the centre of development through programmes covering nutrition, education and healthcare. Government figures cited in the article show that free meals had reached more than 62 million beneficiaries by May 2026, while free health checks had served over 73 million people by July.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:53 WIB
BP Tapera: FLPP Delivers 464,201 Subsidised Homes in Two Years of President Prabowo’s Government
BP Tapera says 464,201 subsidised home loans worth Rp57.7 trillion have been disbursed during the first two years of President Prabowo Subianto’s administration. In 2026, 185,333 units have been financed so far, while eligibility has broadened to include more informal workers and small-business operators.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:52 WIB
PGE prepares major funding strategy to reach 1.8GW geothermal target
Pertamina Geothermal Energy (PGE) is arranging a broad funding strategy to manage exploration risks and meet its target of 1.8GW of installed geothermal capacity by 2034. The company plans to combine internal capital, IPO proceeds, concessional overseas funding, green finance and a joint venture with PLN, as Indonesia seeks to become the world’s leading geothermal power producer by 2030.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:51 WIB
Gerindra: 5.45% Economic Growth Is an Achievement of Prabowo-Gibran Government
Gerindra spokesperson Kamrussamad cited Indonesia’s 5.45% growth in the first half of 2026, alongside lower poverty and unemployment and rising investment, as a key achievement of the Prabowo-Gibran administration. He also highlighted government programmes and state-owned enterprise profits, while acknowledging challenges including forest fires, fuel distribution and pressure on the rupiah and stock market.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:50 WIB
Religious Affairs Minister: SI’s Struggle Enters a New Chapter Through Strengthening the Community’s Economy
Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar says Syarikat Islam (SI) can open a new chapter by strengthening the community’s economy through mosques, Islamic boarding schools and cooperatives. The ministers and SI leaders called for professionally managed economic initiatives rooted in cooperative enterprise to promote self-reliance and advance a more equitable people-centred economy.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:50 WIB
Annual Financial Street Forum Officially Opens
The 2026 Annual Conference of the Financial Street Forum has opened in Beijing, bringing together more than 400 prominent figures from around the world for four days of discussions. Under the theme of building an open, collaborative and inclusive ecosystem for global finance, sessions will address cross-border cooperation, investment opportunities in China’s capital markets and finance’s role in supporting the real economy.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:50 WIB
MP Critically Injured After Attack, Deliberately Hit Twice
Australian independent MP Helen Haines is in a critical condition after being struck twice by a car outside her electorate office in Wangaratta, in what Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has described as a deliberate attack. Police have arrested a 43-year-old man and are investigating the motive, with reports that Haines has lost one leg and surgeons are trying to save the other.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:49 WIB
Moto G47 Power revealed with 7,000 mAh battery and IP64 certification
Motorola’s Moto G47 Power has appeared in Europe’s EPREL energy database, listing a 6,790 mAh rated battery, promoted as 7,000 mAh, and an A energy-efficiency rating. A retailer leak suggests a €350 price for the 4GB/128GB model, while the phone’s other core specifications remain unconfirmed.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:49 WIB
Batam-Bintan blackout: Police probe possible negligence and sabotage
Police are investigating the cause of the Batam-Bintan blackout, including a short circuit, the repositioning of a CCTV camera and why a local fault triggered a wider outage. Five people have been named as suspects, while investigators assess possible negligence or deliberate sabotage and whether either could lead to criminal liability.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:48 WIB
Prabowo to Chair Full Cabinet Meeting at Palace on Wednesday Afternoon
President Prabowo Subianto is scheduled to chair a plenary cabinet meeting at the Presidential Palace on Wednesday afternoon, coinciding with the second anniversary of the Merah Putih Cabinet. Ministers Airlangga Hartarto and Brian Yuliarto confirmed the meeting, which will be held in the palace’s central courtyard for the first time.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:48 WIB
BULOG and House Commission IV Launch Phase III Rice Assistance, Ensuring Support Continues Through 2026
BULOG and House of Representatives Commission IV have launched the third phase of the government’s rice assistance programme, covering October to December 2026 and targeting about 33.2 million recipients nationwide. Each recipient is allocated 10kg a month, while officials say the programme is intended to ease household costs and protect access to staple food; Yogyakarta province is allocated 15.69 million kg for nearly 523,000 recipients.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:47 WIB
KPK Urges Nusron Wahid to Co-operate After Missing Two Summonses
Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has urged Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning Minister Nusron Wahid to co-operate after he failed to attend two summonses as a witness in a bribery investigation involving land-use rights at property developer PT Summarecon Agung. Investigators are reviewing his reasons for absence and are considering further steps, including issuing an order to bring him in, as several suspects have been identified as people close to him.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:47 WIB
On Golkar’s 62nd Anniversary, Bogor Calls for Support for President Prabowo’s Second Term
Golkar’s Bogor branch marked the party’s 62nd anniversary by reaffirming its support for President Prabowo Subianto’s priority programmes and calling for his re-election for a second term. Deputy Regent Ade Ruhandi said the programmes, including food assistance, village cooperatives and support for small businesses, had benefited local communities; he also urged political parties and residents to back Bogor’s local government programmes.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:46 WIB
Tax education should be prioritised to prevent a pragmatic approach, says DDTC founder
DDTC founder Darussalam has urged stakeholders to promote substantive, tiered tax education, warning that rules making a competency examination the sole route to qualification could encourage people to study only to pass a test. He also called for alignment between the rules for taxpayer representatives and Tax Court legal representatives, proposing three qualification pathways based on education, certification or recognised professional experience.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:46 WIB
BPK Flags BKPM’s Oversight of Tax Incentives After No Reports Sent to DGT
Indonesia’s Audit Board (BPK) found that the Investment Ministry/BKPM failed to submit quarterly reports on tax incentives to the Directorate General of Taxes from 2021 to mid-2025, relying instead on online access to its OSS system. It also identified gaps in compliance assessments, facility data and provincial oversight, prompting recommendations to improve the system and reporting; the article additionally reviews related tax policy developments.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:46 WIB
BULOG Marks Two Years of Prabowo–Gibran Administration with Launch of New SPHP Rice Packaging
State logistics company BULOG has launched new packaging for its medium-grade SPHP rice, branded “Beras Kita Medium”, to strengthen recognition of the government rice programme and offer consumers quality rice at affordable prices. The launch, held in Bantul to mark two years of President Prabowo Subianto and Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s administration, was presented as part of wider efforts to support food security, stabilise rice supplies and prices, and back domestic farmers.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:46 WIB
Environment Ministry prepares science-based protection for East Sumba’s savanna ecosystem
The Environment Ministry is preparing a science-based ecosystem protection project in East Sumba, due to begin in 2027, focusing on savanna landscapes and river basins. The LENTERA programme will use ecosystem risk assessments and local knowledge across three pilot areas to inform environmental planning and support sustainable livelihoods.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:45 WIB
BNPB Says 454.25 Hectares of Forest and Land Fires Extinguished in Six Priority Provinces in Sumatra and Kalimantan
Joint teams had extinguished fires across 454.25 hectares in six priority provinces by 19 October 2026, while 570.08 hectares remained under suppression and cooling operations. BNPB expects the workload to ease as the rainy season arrives in stages, although operations continue to target remaining fires.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:45 WIB
KMP Batumandi Catches Fire; ASDP Chief Issues Apology
All passengers and crew were evacuated after the KMP Batumandi caught fire near Merak, and ASDP says the incident response is being conducted in accordance with safety procedures. The ferry operator has apologised, while authorities investigate the cause and services on the Merak–Bakauheni route are temporarily being redirected to Express Pier 2.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:43 WIB
Badung Fisheries Agency Targets 10 Fish-Product Distributions in 2026
Badung Regency’s Fisheries Agency aims to distribute packages of processed fish on 10 occasions in 2026, combining nutrition and stunting-prevention efforts with support for local fisheries businesses. At the eighth distribution in Ayunan village, 200 packages were handed out alongside free health checks; the agency has also prepared 350 additional packages for residents already classified as stunted.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:43 WIB
Five Steps to Restore Confidence in Indonesia’s Capital Market After MSCI Warning
Evident Institute has proposed five reforms to rebuild global investor confidence after MSCI proposed consulting on reclassifying Indonesia from an emerging market to a standalone market. The recommendations focus on ownership transparency, free float, enforcement, foreign-exchange access and regular engagement with global fund managers; MSCI’s final decision is due by 30 June 2027 and depends on evidence of material, sustained improvements.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:42 WIB
Japan Proposes Co-hosting Asia Zero Emission Community Summit with the Philippines
Japan has proposed co-hosting an Asia Zero Emission Community summit with the Philippines, seeking to strengthen regional energy cooperation amid the Middle East crisis. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr agreed to work together on preparations ahead of ASEAN summit meetings scheduled for November.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:42 WIB
Co-operatives Minister strengthens collaboration between SI, Baznas and MES to widen access to capital
Co-operatives Minister Ferry Juliantono has strengthened cooperation between Syarikat Islam (SI), the National Zakat Agency (Baznas) and the Sharia Economic Community (MES) to widen financing access for Muslim entrepreneurs. The partnership will extend community programmes through SI’s national network and focus on five pillars, while government agencies also aim to build independent businesses and employment.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:41 WIB
Jakarta Metro Police Praise Public for Maintaining Peace During Demonstrations
Jakarta Metro Police praised student groups and other organisations for staging orderly demonstrations at several locations in the capital. Police also recognised cooperation with local authorities and apologised for traffic disruption, while emphasising the public’s right to protest and other residents’ right to go about their daily activities.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:41 WIB
Hanwha Life Invitational Brings Together Young Women Golfers from Six Asian Countries on the International Stage
The inaugural Hanwha Life Asia Junior Women’s Golf Tournament concluded in South Korea, with local golfer Yoonju Ahn winning at 11 under par. The three-day event brought together junior players from six Asian countries and forms part of Hanwha Life’s efforts to develop young golfing talent, including offering top performers opportunities connected to the 2027 Hanwha PLUS International Crown.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:40 WIB
BPBD East Java: Arjuno-Ringgit Fire Hotspots Moving Towards Singosari
Forest fires in the Mount Arjuno-Ringgit area are continuing, with hotspots near Prigen moving south towards Singosari in Malang Regency. The flames have also reached residents’ plantations, although nearby communities have not yet been directly affected; the cause remains under investigation and the burned area is still being assessed.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:40 WIB
New Development in Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo Corruption Case: KPK Team Searches Key Regency Government Offices
Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) searched several offices at the Klaten Regency Government headquarters on Tuesday, following its arrest of Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo in a suspected corruption case. The searches mark a new stage in the investigation, with KPK officers seen leaving the building carrying a suitcase.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:40 WIB
MBS’s Big Gamble Fails as Saudi Arabia Enters a Dark Year
Mohammed bin Salman’s ambition to establish Saudi Arabia as a global investment hub is being undermined by Houthi attacks, a worsening economic outlook and uncertainty over US support. The crisis exposes the kingdom’s continued dependence on oil and American security protection, despite MBS’s firm grip on power and efforts to diversify the economy.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:40 WIB
Adela Kanasya Stresses the Importance of Public Service Ahead of Golkar’s 62nd Anniversary
Golkar’s central board marked the party’s 62nd anniversary by organising a blood donation drive at its Jakarta headquarters, with 620 people taking part. Coordinating the event, young Golkar politician and House of Representatives Commission X member Adela Kanasya Adies said the anniversary should be an opportunity for practical service and social solidarity, particularly among young people.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:39 WIB
Protests Proceed Peacefully as Metro Jaya Police Praise Students
Protesters who gathered outside the House of Representatives building and at the Monas roundabout in Central Jakarta have dispersed, with Metro Jaya Police thanking students, community groups and other agencies for helping maintain order. The police said they prioritised humane service, the right to express opinions and public safety, while apologising to residents whose activities or journeys were disrupted.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:38 WIB
Kompolnas Calls for Tighter Oversight of Firearms and Police Seniority Culture
Indonesia’s National Police Commission (Kompolnas) has urged the police to tighten controls on officers’ storage and use of firearms following a fatal shooting in South Tangerang. It also warned against violence and entrenched senior-junior practices within the force, while investigators continue examining the alleged motive behind the shooting.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:35 WIB
Deputy Religious Affairs Minister Urges Practice of Religious Teachings to Strengthen Harmony
Deputy Religious Affairs Minister Romo Muhammad Syafi’i says deeper understanding and practice of each faith can reinforce, rather than conflict with, religious harmony in Indonesia’s diverse society. The Ministry of Religious Affairs reported that the Religious Harmony Index rose to 77.89 in 2025, exceeding its annual target, while the Religious Piety Index also increased.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:35 WIB
Protests Held Across Several Regions on 20 October as Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Responds
Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Dudung Abdurachman said freedom of expression is a constitutional right, while urging demonstrators and social media users to act responsibly and respect others’ rights. Demonstrations marking two years of the Prabowo-Gibran administration took place or were planned in Jakarta, Yogyakarta and Makassar, with demands including stronger action on forest and land fires and disaster recovery.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:35 WIB
Prabowo to Launch Social Protection Digitalisation Portal on 10 November 2026
President Prabowo Subianto is due to launch a unified digital portal for managing social assistance on 10 November, after it was piloted across all 514 districts and municipalities. Officials say it will use data-driven eligibility decisions and cash transfers to improve fairness and targeting; 11.5 million households are registered, with more than 600,000 daily portal registrations reported.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:34 WIB
KMP Batumandi Passengers Evacuated to Merak Port and Treated by Medical Team
Passengers were taken to Merak Port’s executive pier after the KMP Batumandi caught fire as it was preparing to dock, where medical staff assessed and treated them. A passenger described people jumping from the vessel in panic as smoke rose, with nearby fishermen helping to rescue those aboard.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:30 WIB
Government Upholds Freedom of Expression, but Says It Must Be Exercised Responsibly
Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Dudung Abdurachman said freedom of expression is a constitutional right, while urging people to exercise it responsibly and respect others’ rights. His remarks came amid demonstrations in several locations and included a call to communicate respectfully online and verify information before sharing it.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:30 WIB
Asia’s Wealthy Families Face Threat of ‘Unravelling’: Here’s Why
A Julius Baer report says few wealthy families in Asia are prepared to transfer or sell their businesses, with succession gaps and disagreements between generations posing risks to family cohesion and business transactions. Experts say early involvement of successors, clear agreement on long-term goals and professional wealth-management structures can help preserve wealth while sustaining entrepreneurial activity.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:28 WIB
Co-ordinating Minister Dudung Upholds Freedom of Expression: ‘Let Us Exercise It Responsibly’
Co-ordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Dudung Abdurachman said freedom of expression is a constitutional right, but must be exercised with responsibility, civility and respect for others’ rights. Responding to recent demonstrations, he urged the public to verify information before sharing it and to prevent differences of opinion from deepening social divisions.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:28 WIB
Dozens of Cirebon Pupils Report Symptoms of Suspected Food Poisoning After Free Meals
Dozens of pupils from kindergarten and primary schools in Cirebon reportedly developed nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and breathing difficulties after eating meals provided under the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. One parent said his child reported that the quail-egg soup smelled bad; the children were being examined at a local hospital, and the total number affected and whether they would require admission remained unclear.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:28 WIB
Philippine Vice-President Says Prosecutors Failed to Prove Grounds for Impeachment
Philippine Vice-President Sara Duterte accused the House prosecution team of failing to substantiate allegations that could justify her impeachment, and said the government was reframing the case as a national-security issue. The dispute follows the Supreme Court’s annulment of an earlier impeachment process, with a fresh effort emerging in 2026; Duterte urged officials to focus on governance amid worsening hardship among Filipinos.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:27 WIB
Labuan Bajo Travel Agency Boss Accused of Scamming Tourists Arrested After Using the Toilet
Police have arrested Kristoforus Aman, owner of the Labuan Bajo Top travel agency, after more than two months on the run over alleged scams involving Italian and Chinese tourists. He had previously been detained in a separate case involving Malaysian and Singaporean visitors, but was released after repaying their losses through restorative justice; police are now pursuing further investigations and coordinating with prosecutors.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:27 WIB
OJK says it is going all-out on Indonesia capital market reforms
OJK Chair Friderica Widyasari Dewi said the regulator is pressing ahead with capital-market reforms, including expanded ownership disclosures, measures to address concentrated shareholdings and a phased rise in minimum free float to 15 per cent. The remarks follow sharp volatility after MSCI proposed downgrading Indonesia’s market classification, with OJK stressing the need for investigations into alleged violations and citing a recent market rebound and Rp2.1 trillion in fines.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:27 WIB
Probolinggo Resident Dies After Catching Fire While Trying to Extinguish Rubbish Blaze
A resident of Lambangkuning village in Probolinggo, East Java, died after falling into flames while trying to put out a fire that grew as he burned garden waste on his land. The local disaster management agency has urged people to take care when burning rubbish and to seek help rather than tackle fires that become difficult to control.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:27 WIB
Greenpeace Protests Climate Issues at Bundaran HI; Government Communications Agency Responds
Greenpeace Indonesia staged a peaceful protest at Jakarta’s Bundaran HI, calling for action on the climate crisis and the rising cost of living; six activists were reportedly taken to a police station, with their legal status still unclear. The government said it respected the protest and cited forest-fire response measures and a Rp26.34 trillion second-half 2026 stimulus package, including rice assistance and a commitment to keep fuel prices unchanged through the end of the year.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:26 WIB
Co-operatives Minister Says Syarikat Islam’s Economic Outreach Aligns with KDKMP Programme
Co-operatives Minister Ferry Juliantono says Syarikat Islam’s economic outreach is aligned with the Red and White Village/Sub-district Co-operative Programme (KDKMP), and is urging closer collaboration to expand its implementation. Newly appointed as Syarikat Islam’s executive president for 2026–2031, he said the organisation would focus on economic empowerment, including helping people avoid illegal lending and addressing poverty.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:25 WIB
MP Says Policy Direction in Prabowo-Gibran Government’s First Two Years Is on the Right Track
Golkar MP Soedeson Tandra says the Prabowo-Gibran administration has made fundamental progress in legal reform, enforcement and economic policy during its first two years. He highlights new legislation, penalties against capital-market violators, anti-corruption action, forest enforcement, biodiesel and nickel downstreaming as evidence of progress.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:25 WIB
DEN Reports to Prabowo on Impact of Free Nutritious Meals: Students More Eager to Learn
Indonesia’s National Economic Council (DEN) told President Prabowo Subianto that students receiving the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme are absent less often and show greater enthusiasm for learning than non-recipients. It urged the government to improve meal quality and prioritise poor communities, rural areas and the 3T regions, where access remains uneven.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:24 WIB
Java and Sumatra Drive KAI’s Freight Logistics
KAI transported 9.15 million tonnes of non-coal freight between January and September 2026, up 2.6 per cent year on year. Java accounted for about 73 per cent of the volume, with Sumatra contributing the remaining 27 per cent, as the railway operator says it is assessing regional demand and network capacity to develop freight services.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:23 WIB
DSN-MUI Strengthens Cooperation with OJK to Safeguard Sharia Compliance
The National Sharia Council of the Indonesian Ulema Council (DSN-MUI) is strengthening coordination with the Financial Services Authority (OJK) to align regulatory oversight with sharia compliance in the financial industry. At its annual forum, DSN-MUI chair Cholil Nafis stressed closer cooperation among the council, OJK and sharia supervisory boards, as well as balancing financial innovation with sharia principles.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:23 WIB
PSO Keeps Rail Travel Affordable
The government’s Public Service Obligation (PSO) scheme supports affordable fares on economy-class trains, with KAI reporting 14.16 million journeys on its subsidised long-distance and local services from January to September 2026. That was a 7.7 per cent increase year on year, highlighting the role of subsidised rail in connecting people to work, education, healthcare and family while requiring operators to maintain safety and service standards.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:20 WIB
Probolinggo Resident Dies After Catching Fire While Burning Rubbish
A man in Probolinggo, East Java, died after falling into a fire while trying to extinguish flames that spread as he burned garden waste on his land. The local disaster management agency has urged residents not to tackle fires that are growing or difficult to control, particularly in extreme weather and strong winds.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:20 WIB
Noah’s Ark Searcher Speaks Out, Says He Was Threatened with Murder
Andrew Jones, founder of Noah’s Ark Scans, says his team faced lengthy permit procedures in Türkiye and threats after securing permission to excavate. Jones says he was repeatedly threatened at his home and has moved in with a friend for safety, but remains committed to the search.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:19 WIB
Two Years of Asta Cita: Religious Affairs Ministry Expands Access to Education and Educator Welfare
The Religious Affairs Ministry says it has expanded education assistance, educator benefits and facilities under the government’s Asta Cita agenda. In 2025–26, its figures show Rp7.07 trillion in student aid and Rp50.927 trillion in professional allowances for teachers and lecturers, alongside investments in school infrastructure and inclusive education.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:19 WIB
Government Respects Greenpeace Protest, Reaffirms Commitment to Address Climate Crisis and Protect Household Purchasing Power
The government says it respects Greenpeace’s protest in central Jakarta and recognises concerns about climate change and the rising cost of living. It highlights forest-fire response funding and tougher enforcement, alongside a Rp26.34 trillion stimulus package that includes rice assistance, stable fuel prices and additional rice supplies.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:18 WIB
Hundreds of Hectares Burned in Mount Lawu Wildfires, Suspected to Have Been Caused by Charcoal-Making
A fire on the slopes of Mount Lawu has burned or affected 230 hectares, with officials suspecting that charcoal-making activities may have sparked it. Central Java police are investigating, while the number of fire hotspots rose to 36 on Tuesday amid strong winds; Karanganyar Regency has declared an emergency response status.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:16 WIB
BNPB Tackles 572.90 Hectares of Forest and Land Fires Across Non-Priority Regions
The National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) says fires have affected an estimated 572.90 hectares across regions outside the priority provinces, with 107.77 hectares extinguished and 465.13 hectares still under intensive response. Incidents include fires in East Kalimantan and the Nusantara Capital City area, Central Java, North Sulawesi, West Java and Central Papua, with difficult terrain and erratic strong winds complicating efforts in Karanganyar.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:13 WIB
Pramono Invites Community Organisations to Work Together on Jakarta’s Environmental Problems
Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has invited community organisations to work with the provincial government on environmental initiatives, including cleaning the city’s rivers. The 234 Solidarity Community says it is considering a river-cleaning programme with other groups and has also outlined social plans involving healthcare, education and youth activities.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:12 WIB
Passengers Evacuated from KMP Batumandi Using Emergency Slide
Passengers and crew aboard the KMP Batumandi were safely evacuated after the ferry caught fire while approaching Merak Port in Banten. Rescue teams, fishing boats and speedboats assisted, and the survivors were taken to the port’s executive pier for assessment and care.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:11 WIB
Attorney General’s Office Hands Over Rp229 Billion in Compensation to Indosurya Victims
The Attorney General’s Asset Recovery Agency has handed over Rp229 billion in compensation to victims of the Indosurya case, recovered through seizures and asset auctions. The payment is only the first phase: recorded losses among 3,317 eligible claimants total about Rp8.06 trillion, and authorities say further asset recovery and distributions are expected.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:10 WIB
Economy Targeted to Grow by 6 Per Cent: The Government’s Strategy
The government is targeting 6 per cent economic growth in 2027, relying on household consumption, investment and productive sectors while using the state budget to support purchasing power and price stability. The proposed 2027 budget sets a deficit of 2.4 per cent of GDP, with officials and business representatives stressing that fiscal and monetary coordination, policy certainty and private-sector investment will be crucial amid global uncertainty.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:10 WIB
North Barito Regency prepares maize seed assistance for 1,773 hectares
North Barito Regency is preparing 26.6 tonnes of hybrid maize seeds through its 2026 revised budget to cover 1,773 hectares, supplementing 22.5 tonnes already supplied by the central government. The programme aims to boost local production and food security, while addressing a decline in planted area and obstacles including seed access, price volatility and inadequate processing and storage facilities.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:10 WIB
Forest and Land Fires in Berbak National Park Ease Following Joint Operations
Forest and land fires in Berbak National Park, Jambi, have begun to subside after a joint response involving personnel from several agencies and regions. Fire crews are still tackling hotspots in multiple villages, using water pumps and hoses as well as two kilometres of firebreaks, while local authorities have cleared canals to improve water supplies.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:10 WIB
Government Records 7.3% Growth in Investment Realisation from January to September 2026
Indonesia recorded Rp1,539.2 trillion in investment realisation during January–September 2026, up 7.3% year on year and equal to 75.4% of its full-year target. Investment outside Java accounted for just over half of the total, while DKI Jakarta led provincial inflows; the government says it wants investment and downstreaming to support industrialisation.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:10 WIB
Sudan’s Civil War Sees a ‘Rain’ of Drones as 160 People Are Killed
More than 160 people have reportedly been killed in a wave of drone attacks across Sudan since Friday, with civilians and public infrastructure among the targets. The United Nations has condemned the attacks as the use of drones intensifies the conflict and compounds a humanitarian crisis that has displaced millions and left tens of millions in need of food assistance.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:08 WIB
DPR: Falling Poverty Shows Empowerment Strategy Is on the Right Track
A member of the House of Representatives’ Commission VIII says the poverty rate’s decline to 8.07% demonstrates that the government’s community empowerment strategy is working. He called for better-integrated social and economic data, sustained funding and stronger inter-agency coordination to meet the 2029 targets of reducing poverty to 4.5–5% and extreme poverty to below 0.5%.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:07 WIB
Tedy Alamsyah Re-elected to Lead Perbarindo for 2026–2030
Tedy Alamsyah has been re-elected unopposed to lead Perbarindo, the association representing Indonesia’s rural and sharia rural banks, for a second term. The association highlighted the need to strengthen governance, digital transformation and suitable regulation, while data showed continued growth in assets, lending and deposits despite capital constraints at 169 institutions.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:07 WIB
BULOG and House Commission IV Launch Phase III Rice Food Assistance
BULOG and House Commission IV have launched the third phase of rice assistance for October–December 2026, covering around 33.2 million recipients nationwide. Each recipient is allocated 10kg a month, with the programme intended to ease household costs and protect access to staple food; Yogyakarta province is allocated 15.69 million kg for 522,956 recipients.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:07 WIB
North Jakarta Transport Agency Takes Action Against Trucks Violating Slow-Lane Rules in Koja
North Jakarta’s Transport Agency has taken enforcement action against container trucks and trailers entering the slow lane on Jalan Jampea, where a parked truck previously obstructed an ambulance heading to Koja Regional General Hospital. Officials say the lane is restricted to two-wheelers and will be kept clear through ticketing, towing and coordination with freight operators; a proposed height barrier is also under technical review.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:06 WIB
Government respects Greenpeace protest and says it is addressing climate crisis
The government said it respects Greenpeace’s protest in Jakarta as an exercise of freedom of expression, while highlighting measures to tackle climate-related impacts and rising living costs. These include Rp760 billion in emergency funding for areas affected by forest and land fires, stronger penalties for arson, and a Rp26.34 trillion stimulus package featuring rice aid and measures to stabilise fuel and food prices.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:06 WIB
Kodaeral Ambon Calls for All Stakeholders to Help Secure the Masela Block
The Indonesian Navy’s Kodaeral IX in Ambon is urging government, security forces, businesses, academics and local communities to work together to safeguard the Abadi Field project in the Masela Block and ensure its long-term viability. Maluku’s deputy governor says the investment could generate jobs and circulate significant income locally, while speakers stressed that local participation, cultural values and environmental and social considerations must accompany development.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:04 WIB
Police Name Five Suspects over Batam Blackout That Cost the State Rp57.3 Billion
Police have named five suspects in connection with a blackout across Indonesia’s Batam Islands, estimating that the incident caused Rp57.3 billion in losses. Four suspects are employees of PLN Batam and one is a private contractor; investigators say the outage followed a short circuit in a transformer at the Sei Harapan substation.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:03 WIB
Pelindo Jasa Maritim Holds ‘Pelindo Mengajar’ at SMAN 3 Bogor
PT Pelindo Jasa Maritim (PJM) has introduced students at SMAN 3 Bogor to maritime careers and the state-owned enterprise, as part of its education-focused social responsibility programme. The initiative is intended to inspire Year 12 students as they prepare for university and future employment, and has also been held at schools in Tuban and Yogyakarta.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:03 WIB
BP Tapera: It Is Becoming Easier for Indonesians to Own a Home under President Prabowo
BP Tapera says government measures during President Prabowo Subianto’s first two years are making decent, affordable housing more accessible, including subsidised mortgages and tax incentives for low-income households. The agency says its allocation for subsidised homes has risen to 350,000 units as part of the government’s Three Million Homes programme and efforts to reduce the housing backlog.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:02 WIB
Paris in Flames, but Couple Relax Outside Café, Chatting
Protests over the cost of living and deteriorating public services turned violent across France, with nearly 2,400 people arrested and almost 1,000 police and gendarmes injured. Amid the unrest, a video of a couple calmly drinking at a café near the Arc de Triomphe, with fires burning behind them, went viral.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:02 WIB
Transport Ministry Says Response to KMP Batumandi Fire off Merak Was Co-ordinated
The Transport Ministry said all passengers and crew aboard the KMP Batumandi were safely evacuated after a fire broke out in the vessel’s engine room near Merak on Tuesday afternoon. Authorities and supporting vessels co-ordinated the response, while the cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:01 WIB
Transport Ministry Confirms All Passengers on KMP Batumandi Safely Evacuated After Fire
All passengers and crew aboard the KMP Batumandi were safely evacuated to another ferry after a fire was reported in the vessel’s engine room near the entrance to the Merak crossing route. The cause remains unknown, and the authorities say they will investigate while coordinating further response efforts.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:00 WIB
MUI urges Indonesians to continue choosing halal products despite delay to mandatory certification
The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) has urged consumers to choose products bearing halal labels after the government postponed the implementation of mandatory halal certification from 2026 to 2028. MUI says the delay may leave consumers with less certainty, while the government cites the need to prepare businesses and strengthen the certification ecosystem; different product categories retain separate deadlines extending as far as 2034.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:00 WIB
Pasar Minggu Residents Grow Rice in 1,700 Reused Plastic Water Containers
Residents in Pasar Minggu, Jakarta, are growing rice in about 1,700 discarded plastic water containers as an urban farming initiative to support local food resilience. The project has expanded from 350 containers in around a year, with each producing roughly 200 grams of dried paddy per harvest and crops harvested almost monthly, despite challenges in plant care and water supply.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:00 WIB
AI Identifies the Source of Climate ‘Doom’ Two Years in Advance
Researchers say a new AI model predicted the simulated disappearance of reflective marine clouds more than two years before the tipping point, with its estimate just 11 days from the simulated event. The model could help identify abrupt changes in complex systems, but its performance in real-world conditions remains unproven.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:59 WIB
Lombok Clothing Shop Owner Accused of Sexually Assaulting Employee and Threatening to Share Her Photos
A clothing shop owner in West Lombok has been reported to West Nusa Tenggara Police over alleged sexual violence against an employee, which reportedly took place between 2025 and 2026. A victim’s advocate says the owner used intimate photos and a video to coerce her, and that more than one employee may have been targeted.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:58 WIB
Vice-President Meets WALUBI to Discuss Strengthening Social and Humanitarian Activities
Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka met representatives of the Indonesian Buddhist Representatives Council (WALUBI) to discuss humanitarian programmes and national unity. He praised the organisation’s disaster-relief work and pledged support for future community-service initiatives, particularly amid drought and forest and land fires.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:58 WIB
Human Rights Literacy and Real-World Data Pose Challenges for Corporate ESG Due Diligence
Companies face significant obstacles in conducting human rights due diligence and producing accountable ESG reports because of low human rights awareness and a lack of reliable, current data on workers’ conditions. Surveyor Indonesia sustainability expert Wika Harisa Putri says better understanding and record-keeping are needed to identify risks such as excessive driving hours, fatigue and workplace illness, and to ensure reports reflect conditions on the ground.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:58 WIB
Khofifah and Emil Ask Energy Ministry to Ensure Fuel Supplies in East Java
East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa and Deputy Governor Emil Elestianto Dardak have asked the Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry to ensure reliable supplies and distribution of Biosolar and Pertalite to petrol stations, following reports of long queues. The ministry says it is boosting deliveries to depots, adding 21 tanker trucks and extending depot operating hours to 24 hours, while coordinating with Pertamina and local authorities.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:57 WIB
IFG Strengthens Governance and Risk Management to Guide Business Transformation
Indonesia Financial Group (IFG), the state-owned holding company for insurance, guarantees and investment, is strengthening governance and risk management to support a prudent and accountable business-streamlining programme. A coordination meeting brought together IFG executives, holding-company members and BPKP to align risk, compliance and policy functions and embed risk management throughout the transformation.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:57 WIB
Tanker Truck Driver Arrested with Five Tonnes of Subsidised Diesel as Police Investigate Suspected Scheme
Police in Nagan Raya, Aceh, arrested a tanker driver transporting 5,000 litres of subsidised diesel, which investigators suspect had been collected from several petrol stations, stored in a warehouse and resold above the regulated price. The driver could not produce official transport and trading documents; police are investigating the alleged ownership, source and intended distribution of the fuel, as well as other people who may be involved.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:56 WIB
Realme C01 specifications appear on retailer’s website
Specifications and pricing for the previously unannounced Realme C01 have appeared on certification platforms and a Vietnamese retailer’s website, although the phone is not yet available to buy. The listed model features a 6.8-inch 120Hz display, a 6,500mAh battery and 4G connectivity, with a quoted price of about Rp4.1 million in Vietnam.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:55 WIB
Karawang Land Office Provides Temporary Services in BPBD Marquee
Karawang’s land office has resumed services after a fire destroyed about 90 per cent of its building, using a BPBD emergency marquee and other temporary locations. The Islamic Centre is the main service hub, although operations remain limited while facilities and records are restored; mediation and land-dispute services are being handled at the local military district command.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:55 WIB
LPS focuses on accelerating preparations for insurance policy guarantee scheme
Indonesia’s Deposit Insurance Corporation (LPS) is accelerating preparations for its insurance policy guarantee programme, which is scheduled to begin on 1 January 2028. It is developing the necessary infrastructure and technical rules while stressing that participating insurers must first have sound finances and governance, as the scheme is intended to protect policyholders and help restore public confidence in the industry.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:53 WIB
West Java Governor Urges PII to Develop Electric Angkot
West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has urged the Indonesian Engineers Association (PII) to develop electric angkot to help ease congestion while improving drivers’ welfare. He said electrification should be accompanied by changes to vehicle ownership so drivers are not dependent on owners or burdened by operating levies, while PII has pledged support for environmentally friendly public transport that preserves jobs.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:52 WIB
Disaster Funds Embezzled as Victims Suffer
The KPK has named Bima Setiawan, an expert adviser and younger brother of former BNPB chief Suharyanto, a suspect in alleged corruption involving disaster-response funds and procurement worth about Rp148 billion. Indonesia Corruption Watch warns that abuse of emergency funds can deprive vulnerable disaster victims of urgent aid, and is calling for investigators to examine senior decision-makers and BNPB’s failure to manage conflicts of interest.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:51 WIB
Grobogan and Melawi Prepare Sites for Permanent Sekolah Rakyat Schools
Grobogan and Melawi regencies have set aside land for permanent buildings for the government’s Sekolah Rakyat schools, with local authorities also undertaking site preparation. Social Affairs Deputy Minister Agus Jabo Priyono said the programme is intended to help break the cycle of poverty by providing education to children from the country’s poorest households.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:50 WIB
Manpower Ministry trains workers affected by layoffs for re-employment or entrepreneurship
The Manpower Ministry is training workers affected by layoffs to help them return to work or start businesses, with 50,000 places allocated nationally. In Central Java, the Semarang vocational training centre is targeting 2,464 participants, including 32 people in Brebes who are expected to be hired directly by a local company.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:50 WIB
Badung Budget Absorption Reaches 89%, Adi Arnawa Warns Against Chasing Figures Alone
Badung Regency’s expenditure authorisations reached 89.23% in the third quarter of 2026, but Regent I Wayan Adi Arnawa said performance must be judged by whether spending addresses real problems, not merely by administrative absorption rates. The regency is prioritising congestion, clean-water access, waste management, land-use conversion, crime and public security, with monitoring intended to inform the ongoing 2026 budget and the 2027 budget plan.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:50 WIB
US Vice-President JD Vance Declines to Back Netanyahu, Splitting with Trump?
JD Vance said he would not intervene in Israel’s election or publicly endorse Benjamin Netanyahu, in contrast with President Donald Trump’s recent support for the Israeli prime minister. The difference comes days before the vote and amid a visit to Israel by US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, who reportedly met Netanyahu and Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:48 WIB
Fitch Flags Indonesia’s Debt Risks and Rupiah Pressures After MSCI Announcement
Fitch Ratings says investor concern following MSCI’s consultation on potentially reclassifying Indonesia from an emerging to a standalone market reinforces risks around policy credibility, fiscal discipline and capital-market governance. It does not expect an immediate material credit impact, but warns sustained reserve losses, weaker investor confidence and reduced foreign investment could raise borrowing costs and weigh on Indonesia’s sovereign credit profile.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:48 WIB
BNPB Tightens Dry Ice Seeding Procedures
Indonesia’s National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) has strengthened safety procedures for dry-ice cloud-seeding operations after residents reported material falling in a residential area. The adjustments include fitting filters to dispersal equipment and using finer particles, as the agency continues the weather-modification effort to disperse haze from forest and land fires across six priority provinces.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:47 WIB
Manpower Minister: National Apprenticeship Programme Develops Skills Needed by Industry
Manpower Minister Yassierli says the National Apprenticeship Programme gives recent university graduates six months of workplace experience to help them develop skills sought by employers. The government plans to increase the programme’s quota from 100,000 participants in 2025 to 150,000 in 2026, while providing a monthly allowance, insurance cover, mentoring and access to professional certification.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:44 WIB
Police arrest five debt collectors accused of intimidating resident in Kalideres
Police in West Jakarta have arrested five men accused of threatening motorcyclist Eko Febriansyah and attempting to seize his motorcycle in Kalideres. The suspects have been named as suspects and face charges relating to attempted violent theft and coercion; investigators are examining each man’s role.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:43 WIB
Investment Reaches Rp1,539 Trillion by September 2026
Indonesia recorded Rp1,539.2 trillion in investment from January to September 2026, equal to 75.4 per cent of its annual target and generating more than 2.19 million jobs. Foreign investment accounted for 50.5 per cent of the total, led by Singapore, while basic metals was the leading sector for foreign investment and transport, warehousing and telecommunications led domestic investment.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:43 WIB
West Bandung Regency Secures 50 Local Government Assets; Regent Jeje Comments
West Bandung Regency has completed certificates for 50 local government land assets this year, as part of a target to secure 400 plots by the end of 2026. Regent Jeje says the certificates will clarify legal ownership, prevent disputes and enable the government to consider productive uses that could boost locally generated revenue.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:40 WIB
Student Demands on the Economy and Education Draw Sidkon Djampi’s Attention
West Java DPRD member Sidkon Djampi says he will relay student demonstrators’ calls for economic improvements, more equal access to education and youth employment, and an end to repressive policing to the government. The Bandung protest also called for more equitable development in infrastructure, education and health, while disrupting traffic on several city roads.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:40 WIB
BRIN Explains the Use of Dry Ice to Tackle Haze from Forest and Land Fires
Indonesia’s National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) is testing dry-ice seeding as a way to weaken atmospheric temperature inversions that trap smoke and inhibit rain-cloud formation. The agency stresses that the proposed mechanism remains a scientific hypothesis and must be assessed using systematic atmospheric observations before its effectiveness can be established.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:39 WIB
Indonesia’s Free Meal Programme Cuts Hungry Students to 16 Per Cent
Indonesia’s Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme has reduced the share of students attending school hungry from more than 56 per cent to around 16 per cent, while reported fruit and protein consumption has also increased. The government is expanding the programme, targeting 72.4 million beneficiaries in 2027, while tightening oversight through real-time kitchen CCTV monitoring and suspending 1,276 kitchens lacking hygiene certificates.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:38 WIB
2026 Investment Realisation Reaches Rp1,539 Trillion, BKPM Report Shows
Indonesia recorded Rp1,539.2 trillion in investment realisation through the third quarter of 2026, equivalent to 75.4% of the government’s annual target, with downstreaming accounting for Rp480 trillion. Investment outside Java narrowly exceeded Java’s share, while the figures also come amid public concern over economic pressures and environmental damage.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:38 WIB
Tourists Complain of Extortionate Charges at Fulan Fehan; Belu Tourism Office Apologises
A content creator’s viral complaint has drawn attention to high charges and inadequate facilities at the Fulan Fehan tourist destination in Belu, East Nusa Tenggara. The local tourism office apologised, cited regulated entry fees of Rp8,000 for motorbikes and Rp20,000 for cars, and said it had imposed a customary fine on the site’s customary-community managers before carrying out a full review.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:38 WIB
Social Affairs Ministry aims to build 500 permanent Sekolah Rakyat buildings in 3–4 years
The Social Affairs Ministry plans to build 500 permanent Sekolah Rakyat campuses nationwide over the next three to four years, with capacity for more than one million pupils. The programme currently serves over 44,000 students at 182 sites and combines education for children from the poorest households with social rehabilitation and family empowerment support.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:37 WIB
Ministry: Digital Interactive Boards Help Papua Pupils Understand Abstract Concepts
Indonesia’s Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education says Digital Interactive Boards are helping pupils at a Jayapura high school grasp abstract chemistry concepts through visualisations, animations and educational games. The ministry has distributed 2,688 units to 1,409 schools across Papua in 2026, with funding exceeding Rp83 billion.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:35 WIB
KMP Batumandi Fire Suspected to Have Started at the Stern
A fire aboard the KMP Batumandi is believed to have started on the upper deck at the stern, where small vehicles are carried. All passengers and crew were evacuated without any fatalities, while rescue teams continued to extinguish the remaining flames and authorities worked to verify passenger numbers and investigate the cause.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:35 WIB
BI reveals new evidence that public purchasing power remains strong
Bank Indonesia’s September 2026 Consumer Confidence Index stood at 118.1, remaining above the 100-point threshold that signals optimism. The reading indicates that consumers’ confidence in economic conditions—and, by extension, household purchasing power—remains resilient.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:35 WIB
Passengers Heard Explosions Before KMP Batumandi Caught Fire off Merak
A passenger who survived the KMP Batumandi fire said he heard two explosions from the engine room before smoke filled the vessel and its lights went out. He also said passengers panicked after the second blast and that no lifeboats were lowered, while some people jumped into the sea and were rescued by Merak fishermen.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:35 WIB
BNPB to Step Up Weather Modification Efforts as It Battles Forest and Land Fires
Indonesia’s National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) is continuing efforts to contain forest and land fires, deploying weather-modification operations, 60,177 personnel and 49 aircraft across affected provinces. The agency is also anticipating the return of seasonal rain in several regions from October to December, which could help suppress the fires.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:34 WIB
Andre Rosiade Urges PBPI to Act More Professionally: ‘Don’t Disadvantage Certain Clubs’
Andre Rosiade has accused the Indonesian Padel Association (PBPI) of handling national team call-ups inconsistently, saying a player from his club was notified only two days before a league match. He is asking the association to plan call-ups better and ensure they do not disrupt the competition or disadvantage particular clubs.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:34 WIB
Kodaeral IX Ambon Introduces Students to Maritime Defence
Kodaeral IX hosted 84 students from SMP Negeri 26 Maluku for an educational visit covering Indonesian Navy vessels, maritime operations and the history of wartime defences in Ambon. The initiative aims to build young people’s maritime awareness and understanding of the Navy’s role in protecting Indonesia’s waters, while the command also works with Maluku Customs to prevent maritime violations.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:33 WIB
Downstreaming Investment Reaches Rp480.1 Trillion by September 2026
Investment in downstreaming reached Rp480.1 trillion in January–September 2026, up 11.3% year on year and accounting for 31.2% of Indonesia’s total realised investment. Mineral processing attracted the largest share, while three-quarters of downstreaming investment came from foreign investors and 78% was located outside Java.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:33 WIB
Reviewing KDMP Operations, Ahmad Luthfi Ensures Benefits for Residents
Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi has called for the promotion of operational Merah Putih village cooperatives so residents know about their affordable essential goods and local products. Of 8,523 cooperatives established in the province, 5,427 are operating; infrastructure and supply issues remain obstacles for others.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:32 WIB
Golkar: Prabowo-Gibran’s Two Years Put the People at the Centre of Development
Golkar secretary-general Muhammad Sarmuji says the Prabowo-Gibran administration has shifted development policy towards making the public, particularly lower-income groups, its focus and participants. He cited social programmes, lower subsidised fertiliser prices, rice self-sufficiency and village electrification, while noting that Indonesia’s economy grew 5.45% in the first half of 2026.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:32 WIB
Ford Launches Year-End Vehicle Purchase Campaign Early
Ford RMA Indonesia has launched its year-end sales campaign ahead of schedule, offering incentives including free fuel, trade-ins, zero-interest financing and a one-year payment holiday, subject to terms and availability. The company is also promoting the comfort and capability of its Everest and Ranger models, backed by a network of 34 authorised dealers and round-the-clock roadside assistance.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:31 WIB
BNPB: Fires Extinguished on 454 Hectares of Land in Six Priority Provinces
The BNPB says joint teams have extinguished fires across 454.25 hectares of a 1,024.33-hectare target in six priority provinces, while work continues on the remaining 570.08 hectares. The agency expects firefighting operations to ease as the rainy season arrives progressively from October to December.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:30 WIB
TAUD Questions Legal Basis for Arresting Activists Who Hung Banner at HI
The Advocacy Team for Democracy (TAUD) has questioned the legal basis for police detaining six Greenpeace Indonesia activists after they climbed the Welcome Monument at Jakarta’s Hotel Indonesia Roundabout to unfurl a protest banner. TAUD says the peaceful action caused no damage and urges police to clarify the activists’ legal status and release them.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:30 WIB
Singapore Accuses 10 Indonesian Companies over Haze; Home Affairs Minister Responds, Police Chief Cites Foreign Firms
Singapore has named 10 Indonesian companies suspected of involvement in fires that caused transboundary haze, invoking its Transboundary Haze Pollution Act. Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian said Indonesia respects Singapore’s legal process but called for regional cooperation, while warning that Indonesian authorities will act firmly against any companies—including foreign firms—found responsible.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:30 WIB
Expert Warns MSCI Could Weaken Rupiah, with Capital Flight Potentially Reaching US$25bn
PEPS managing director Anthony Budiawan warns that MSCI’s consultation on potentially downgrading Indonesia’s equity market could prompt substantial foreign outflows and put further pressure on the rupiah. He says withdrawals across equities and government and Bank Indonesia debt could reach US$20–25 billion, while urging regulators and the stock exchange to improve market governance and transparency.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:29 WIB
PGRI Launches National Movement to Train One Million Teachers in Coding and AI
The Makassar branch of the Indonesian Teachers Association (PGRI) has launched a national initiative to train one million teachers in coding and artificial intelligence through its 2026 PGRI Power programme. Makassar Mayor Munafri Arifuddin said teachers must adapt to digital developments and use technology to improve learning, while preserving the empathy and human connection central to education.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:29 WIB
PKS president calls for reform of Indonesia’s capital market governance
PKS president Almuzzammil Yusuf has urged authorities to overhaul capital market governance, saying an MSCI warning has heightened investor anxiety and could undermine confidence in Indonesia’s economy. MSCI is considering reclassifying Indonesia’s market from emerging to standalone status, citing insufficient progress on ownership transparency and alleged coordinated trading; a decision is due by 30 June 2027.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:28 WIB
Prabowo to Hold Plenary Cabinet Meeting Tomorrow Afternoon
President Prabowo Subianto is due to convene a plenary cabinet meeting on Wednesday, 21 October, as his administration marks two years in office. Coordinating Economic Affairs Minister Airlangga Hartarto and Higher Education, Science and Technology Minister Brian Yuliarto confirmed it would begin at about 3pm local time.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:26 WIB
Religious Affairs Minister Expects a New Chapter in Syarikat Islam’s Revival
Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar says Syarikat Islam can begin a new phase of its struggle by strengthening Muslim economic self-reliance, including through productive initiatives at mosques and Islamic boarding schools. The organisation’s leaders said cooperatives and community-based enterprise would advance economic justice and fulfil the movement’s historic ideals.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:25 WIB
Police arrest five in raid in Kampung Ambon
Jakarta police arrested five men during a narcotics operation in Kampung Ambon, West Jakarta, after urine tests returned positive for drug use. Officers seized methamphetamine, synthetic cannabis, drug paraphernalia, nine bladed weapons and a CCTV camera during the raid, which involved 125 personnel and formed part of an intensified campaign against drug trafficking and abuse.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:25 WIB
BMKG Uses Dry Ice to Disperse Haze from Forest and Land Fires in Sumatra and Kalimantan
Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) is using dry-ice seeding in weather-modification operations to break up dense fire haze trapped beneath atmospheric inversion layers. Early monitoring has indicated improving visibility in Palembang, while BMKG continues to assess the operation’s effects using visibility and PM2.5 measurements.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:25 WIB
Proposal to Pay Civil Servants’ Salaries Through Cooperatives: Finance Minister Suahasil Responds
Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara said civil servants’ salaries will continue to be paid through the existing transfer system, despite a proposal to channel payments through the Merah Putih Village and Urban Village Cooperatives. The Cooperatives Ministry says no formal decision has been made; it is exploring whether cooperatives could serve as payment partners, including for pensioners, alongside banks and other providers.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:24 WIB
TNI Hercules Aircraft Support Weather Modification Operation to Tackle Forest and Land Fires in South Kalimantan
The Indonesian military has deployed a Hercules transport aircraft carrying dry ice and salt to support weather modification efforts aimed at tackling forest and land fires in South Kalimantan. The operation follows President Prabowo Subianto’s directive for an immediate, large-scale response, including the deployment of additional military, police and forestry personnel and community involvement.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:23 WIB
Danantara to Increase Its Stakes in State-Owned Companies – BCA Sekuritas
Danantara Indonesia plans to increase its shareholdings in listed state-owned enterprises, prioritising companies with strong fundamentals. Chief Operating Officer Dony Oskaria did not identify potential targets or disclose the amount to be invested, describing the move as a way to seize opportunities in the capital market.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:22 WIB
Bareskrim Names Five Suspects in Batam Power Outage Case
Indonesia’s Criminal Investigation Agency has named four PLN Batam employees and a private contractor as suspects over the widespread blackout in Batam and Bintan on 12 October 2026. Investigators cite alleged failures to meet electricity safety obligations; the outage’s estimated customer compensation liability is Rp57.3 billion, while the suspects face charges carrying a maximum 12-year prison term.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:22 WIB
Trump Continues to Accuse El-Sayed of Muslim Brotherhood Ties Without Evidence as Debate Video Gets 14 Million Views
Donald Trump has again accused Michigan Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed of links to the Muslim Brotherhood, without presenting evidence, while fact-checkers have found a key claim by his Republican opponent Mike Rogers to be false. A video of El-Sayed defending his constitutional allegiance and rejecting the organisation at a public meeting has been viewed more than 14 million times, making the dispute a prominent issue in the closely watched Senate race.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:20 WIB
Probolinggo City Leadership Forum Holds Prayers to Mark Two Years of Prabowo-Gibran Government
Probolinggo’s regional leadership forum and religious leaders held an interfaith prayer gathering to mark two years of President Prabowo Subianto and Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s administration. Speakers framed the event as a spiritual reflection and called for national unity, security and continued development, while stressing the importance of local harmony and stability.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:20 WIB
Raw Material Prices Rise 20% as Shipbuilders Seek Incentives
Indonesia’s shipbuilding industry says raw material costs have risen by as much as 20% in 2026, driven in part by the rupiah’s weakness against the US dollar, squeezing yards locked into contracts without price-escalation clauses. The industry is urging the government to provide stimulus, tax relief and incentives for shipping companies ordering locally built vessels, while the Industry Minister has floated support for both production and demand as the government drafts a shipbuilding roadmap.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:19 WIB
ASEPHI Focuses on Consolidating MSMEs and Expanding Markets
The Indonesian Handicraft Exporters and Producers Association (ASEPHI) says it will consolidate its thousands of member MSMEs and expand market access, while continuing its existing 2024–2029 programmes after a leadership change. The new board also plans to strengthen organisational advocacy, helping businesses address legal, administrative, tax and export-compliance barriers.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:18 WIB
Demonstration at Central Jakarta’s Tugu Tani Ends as Crowd Disperses
Protesters at Tugu Tani in Central Jakarta dispersed on Tuesday evening after displaying banners calling for a review of several government programmes and action on forest and land fires. The gathering also raised demands for improvements to economic governance and education, while demonstrators collected rubbish before leaving.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:16 WIB
Tokopedia and TikTok Shop Offer Free Halal Certification to SMEs
Tokopedia and TikTok Shop Indonesia are providing selected Bandung-based micro, small and medium-sized enterprises with free halal certification support to strengthen local products’ competitiveness and consumer confidence. The programme also offers digital sales training and follow-up assistance, as part of a wider effort that has trained more than 2,500 businesses in five cities on regulatory compliance and business development.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:15 WIB
Pick-up Truck Crashes into Tree in Sempidi, Badung; Driver Killed
A 50-year-old pick-up driver was killed and his 22-year-old passenger injured when the vehicle veered off the Denpasar–Gilimanuk road and struck a tree in Sempidi, Badung. Police said the driver may have been travelling at high speed, while reports that he suffered a heart attack before the crash have not been medically confirmed.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:15 WIB
Virgo ship management seeks to recover victims before salvage operation
PT Virgo Karya Shipping says it is prioritising the recovery of any remaining victims from the sunken Virgo Transport 8 before a full salvage operation begins. Fifty-three people remain missing after the vessel sank in the Java Sea; the company estimates that salvage could take up to 30 days, depending on currents and weather.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:15 WIB
Mandatory Halal Certification Delayed Until 2028: Industry Minister Responds
Industry Minister M Sarmuji welcomed the extension of the halal-certification transition period, saying it will give businesses—particularly small and medium-sized industries—more time to prepare. Under an amendment to Government Regulation No. 42/2024, the requirement for micro and small enterprises (MSEs) covering food, beverages, slaughtered products and slaughtering services will take effect on 18 October 2028.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:12 WIB
Indonesian Economy Remains Strong Amid Global Volatility
Indonesia’s economic officials say the country’s macroeconomic conditions and consumer spending remain resilient despite uncertainty in the global economy. The government plans to spend about Rp1,300 trillion in the fourth quarter of 2026 to support economic activity, while the OJK is pursuing capital-market reforms to improve transparency, liquidity and investor confidence.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:12 WIB
Kiai Cholil Criticises Preacher and Urges Congregation to Stop Attending His Gatherings
MUI Deputy Chairman KH Muhammad Cholil Nafis has urged Muslims not to attend or invite Habib Alwi bin Abdurrahman Assegaf to preach, following the circulation of a video clip containing remarks deemed demeaning to women. Cholil said the comments were inconsistent with the values of respectful Islamic preaching and could harm religious understanding and society.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:12 WIB
BNPT and House Commission XIII Engage Teachers in Effort to Prevent Students from Being Exposed to Radicalism
Indonesia’s National Counterterrorism Agency (BNPT) and House of Representatives Commission XIII are involving teachers in efforts to prevent students from encountering radical ideology online. BNPT cited preliminary 2026 data indicating that about 746 students across 26 provinces had been exposed, while officials stressed the role of educators in promoting digital literacy, non-violence and national values.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:11 WIB
MP Urges Local Governments and Pertamina to Identify Fuel Distribution Bottlenecks
Dewi Juliani, a member of the House of Representatives’ Commission VI, has called on local governments, Pertamina and related agencies to coordinate more closely to identify fuel distribution obstacles and investigate suspected violations based on evidence. Her call comes amid queues at petrol stations in Riau despite reported fulfilment of fuel quotas; Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has said national fuel reserves remain sufficient.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:10 WIB
Kenyan Cult Leader Who ‘Sold Heaven’ Found Guilty over Deaths of 190 Children
Paul Mackenzie and 28 others have been convicted in Kenya over the deaths of 190 children and one adult, after prosecutors said they organised a doomsday cult that urged followers to starve themselves and their children to reach heaven. The Shakahola Forest case, in which more than 400 bodies have been found, has intensified calls for tighter oversight of religious organisations and scrutiny of past government action.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:09 WIB
BNI Announces Share Buyback to Respond to Capital Market Dynamics
Bank Negara Indonesia (BNI) is continuing its share buyback programme, previously disclosed in July, with implementation scheduled through 26 October 2026. The bank says the measured move reflects confidence in its fundamentals while taking account of market conditions, shareholder interests and adequate capital; it reported strong growth in lending, deposits and net profit.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:09 WIB
More Than Just Speed: The Advantages of the 254km Chongqing–Wanzhou Railway, Designed for 350km/h
Trial runs are under way on the approximately 254-kilometre Chongqing–Wanzhou high-speed railway in China, which is designed to operate at up to 350 kilometres per hour. The article’s supplied content consists of photo captions documenting test operations and preparations at Chongqing East railway station and along the route.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:09 WIB
Indonesia’s Capital Market Risks Downgrade to Standalone Market Status; OJK Vows All-Out Reform
Financial Services Authority (OJK) chair Friderica Widyasari Dewi says the regulator has pursued sweeping capital-market reforms since January 2026, not merely in response to the risk of Indonesia being downgraded from emerging-market to standalone-market status by MSCI. Measures include disclosing shareholders with stakes above 1 per cent, introducing a high-shareholding-concentration policy, setting a 15 per cent free-float requirement and expanding investor classifications from nine groups to 39 sub-categories.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:09 WIB
OJK to Publish Findings on 31 HSC Stocks in Stages: How the Process Works
The Financial Services Authority (OJK) says it has identified 31 of the 61 issuers on its high shareholding concentration (HSC) list as suspected of potential capital-market offences. Investigations are ongoing, and the regulator will publish findings as individual cases conclude, followed where warranted by sanctions and law-enforcement action while observing the presumption of innocence.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:08 WIB
Police Hand Out Bread and Drinks to Student Protesters at Monas
Police in Central Jakarta distributed bread and drinks to students taking part in a demonstration near Monas, while other officers managed security and traffic. Officials said the gesture was part of police service to the public and stressed respect for the right to protest, peaceful communication and the safety of everyone at the gathering.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:08 WIB
Joint team evacuates passengers from KMP Batumandi after fire in Merak
A joint team from Banten Police’s water and air police directorate and the regional disaster management agency is evacuating passengers from the ferry KMP Batumandi after it caught fire off Merak. The evacuation was still under way, with casualty figures and the cause of the fire yet to be established.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:08 WIB
KMP Batumandi Catches Fire; Passengers Evacuated to Merak Executive Pier
Passengers from the KMP Batumandi were evacuated to Merak Port’s Executive Pier after the ferry caught fire while approaching its berth near Merak Besar Island. Basarnas said passenger and casualty figures were still being verified, while ASDP later confirmed that all passengers and crew had been evacuated; the cause of the fire remains unknown.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:07 WIB
The Twilight of the Military Courts Law: TNI Members Can Be Tried in Civilian Courts Following Constitutional Court Ruling
Indonesia’s Constitutional Court has ruled that military personnel accused of ordinary crimes must be tried in civilian courts and ordered lawmakers to revise the 1997 Military Courts Law within two years. The National Commission on Human Rights welcomed the decision, saying the current system has contributed to impunity, and cited the military trial and comparatively light sentences imposed on four soldiers convicted in the acid attack on activist Andrie Yunus.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:07 WIB
Global Economy Forecast to Grow by 3.4% in 2027 Amid Uncertainty
The global economy is projected to grow by 3.4% in 2027, while Emerging and Developing Asia is forecast to expand by 4.9%. Indonesian officials say confidence, credible fiscal and monetary policies, investment and financial-sector stability will be crucial to meeting the country’s 6% growth target; the LPS also plans to activate an insurance policy guarantee programme in 2027 ahead of its 2028 launch.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:06 WIB
Indonesia’s Investment Reaches Rp3,923.2 Trillion by the Third Quarter of 2026
Indonesia recorded Rp3,923.2 trillion in investment from the fourth quarter of 2024 through the third quarter of 2026, creating 5,485,944 jobs. The government says investment policy will focus on downstream industrialisation and simpler licensing, while more than half of reported investment was located outside Java.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:06 WIB
Toll operator confirms response to smoke from land fire on Bakauheni–Terbanggi Besar Toll Road
PT Bakauheni Terbanggi Besar Toll says it deployed emergency crews, firefighting water tankers and traffic controls after smoke from a fire outside the toll road’s right of way entered the carriageway near KM 132. Two passengers were injured in a crash, and the operator says it is continuing to monitor conditions and coordinate with local authorities to protect road users.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:06 WIB
Hajj and Umrah Ministry improves governance and services
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah says it is overhauling governance, widening access and strengthening protection and service standards for pilgrims. Measures include changes to provincial quota distribution, lower Hajj costs, expanded staff training and tougher oversight, alongside efforts to develop the sector’s economic potential.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:06 WIB
All Passengers on KMP Batumandi Successfully Evacuated
All passengers aboard the KMP Batumandi were evacuated after the ferry caught fire near the entrance to Merak Port while travelling from Bakauheni to Merak. Rescue teams are still working to extinguish remaining flames, while authorities verify the passenger count against the vessel’s manifest; no deaths have been confirmed.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:05 WIB
West Lombok Teacher Reported to Police over Alleged Violence Against Pupil
A teacher in West Lombok has been reported to police over alleged physical abuse of a pupil, and the case has progressed to the investigation stage. Police say they have obtained two pieces of evidence, while mediation failed amid conflicting accounts; the Child Protection Agency says the alleged abuse was both physical and psychological.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:05 WIB
Profile of ASDP’s KMP Batumandi, Which Caught Fire
ASDP confirmed that a fire broke out aboard the KMP Batumandi as it approached Merak Port, and said all passengers and crew were evacuated safely. The cause is under investigation; the Ro-Ro ferry is a large vessel operating the Merak–Bakauheni route, with capacity for 626 passengers and around 130 vehicles.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:04 WIB
PKP: 1.79 million homes built or renovated
Indonesia’s Ministry of Housing and Settlement Areas says 1,790,081 homes were built or renovated between January 2025 and 15 October 2026, including more than 1.1 million new homes. The ministry says the total reflects contributions from government programmes, local authorities, banks, developers and private-sector corporate social responsibility initiatives, as it seeks broader backing for the government’s three-million-home target.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:04 WIB
Task Force Checks Completeness of SPPG Documents in East Lombok
East Lombok’s MBG task force is collecting and checking documentation from 82 Nutrition Fulfilment Service Units (SPPGs) that have permits to establish kitchens, before submitting their files to the National Nutrition Agency for operational processing. Fifteen units have received temporary suspension letters, and their partner operators have been asked to address deficiencies so they can resume service.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:03 WIB
Central Jakarta Mayor Inspects New SDN Petojo Utara 01 Building
Central Jakarta Mayor Arifin inspected the fully revitalised SDN Petojo Utara 01, now a five-storey school with a rooftop, lift and solar panels. He said the upgraded facilities are intended to improve the learning environment and urged the school community to maintain them for long-term use.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:03 WIB
Iran Says Excessive US Demands Are Hindering Peace Deal
Iran’s Foreign Ministry says what it calls excessive US demands are obstructing efforts to reach a peace agreement, and that messages from Washington have been insufficient and incomplete. Tehran says it will maintain seven conditions, including lifting the naval blockade and ending hostilities on all fronts, as tensions around the Strait of Hormuz and the wider conflict remain unresolved.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:02 WIB
LABA Establishes GOIN Joint Venture with Oscarmas to Develop Electric Truck Batteries
PT Green Power Group (LABA) and investment firm PT Oscar Investama Indonesia have formally established PT Gobattery Solusi Indonesia (GOIN), a joint venture focused on battery services for commercial electric vehicles. GOIN plans to offer a Battery-as-a-Service model for electric trucks, with Oscarmas’s distribution and after-sales network supporting deployment as the partners finalise battery specifications and prepare initial logistics routes.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:00 WIB
SBT Police Extinguish Fire on 10 Hectares of Peatland
Police in Seram Bagian Timur, Maluku, deployed an Armoured Water Cannon to tackle a fire affecting 10 hectares of peatland in Sumber Agung village. The blaze was reported to be subsiding and away from homes, while officers remain on alert to prevent it from reigniting; police urged residents not to clear land by burning.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:00 WIB
Former Trade Minister Alleges Foreign Interference; IDX Chief Says Index Providers Are Independent
Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) chief executive Jeffrey Hendrik rejected speculation that foreign institutions were pressuring MSCI over a possible downgrade of Indonesia’s equity market classification, saying the exchange would focus on technical market reforms. Former Trade Minister Muhammad Lutfi alleged that Singapore-based investors sought to influence the review, but his claims have not been independently verified; MSCI’s decision will depend on its methodology and assessment of market accessibility and investability.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:00 WIB
Wildfire Spreads on Mount Sumbing; Hiking Temporarily Closed
A forest fire on Mount Sumbing has continued to spread towards Temanggung, with steep terrain, strong winds and difficult access hampering firefighting efforts. Authorities have temporarily closed the mountain to hikers from 20 October until further notice, both to protect visitors and to enable crews to tackle the blaze.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:00 WIB
BP Taskin Chief Budiman Sudjatmiko Reveals Three Strategies to Alleviate Poverty
BP Taskin chief Budiman Sudjatmiko has outlined a three-stage approach to poverty alleviation: protection for poor families, support to help them graduate from poverty, and assets to enable economic independence. The framework pairs social assistance with universal basic services, including free meals, health checks and education programmes.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:59 WIB
BKSDA: Javan Leopard Caught on Camera in West Nusakambangan
A camera trap recorded a Javan leopard in the West Nusakambangan Nature Reserve during a brief monitoring exercise by Central Java’s Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA). Officials cautioned that the footage of one animal cannot establish the island-wide population, estimated at around 20 in earlier research, and said development activity could affect wildlife and habitats, although its impact has not yet been assessed.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:58 WIB
Students Display Banner at Tugu Tani
Students marking the second anniversary of the Prabowo Subianto–Gibran Rakabuming administration staged a demonstration at Tugu Tani in Central Jakarta and displayed a banner outlining their demands. These included declaring forest and land fires a national disaster, addressing social inequality, protecting civic space, tackling corruption and improving access to education.