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Found 591,817 articles

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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%.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Sultan HB X Questions ASN Salaries via Village Cooperatives: ‘Don’t Speculate, People’s Livelihoods Are at Stake’

Yogyakarta Governor Sri Sultan Hamengku Buwono X says the proposed plan to channel civil servants’ salaries through Merah Putih village and urban-ward cooperatives remains unclear and has not been formalised by the central government. He has urged officials not to speculate, stressing that the payment mechanism and management system must be explained because the policy affects people’s livelihoods.

Electrical Short Circuit Suspected of Causing Fire at Seven Rental Units in Kelapa Gading

A suspected electrical short circuit sparked a fire that damaged seven rental units in Kampung Rawa Sengon, North Jakarta, causing estimated losses of Rp200 million. Firefighters deployed 15 fire engines and 75 personnel, bringing the blaze under control despite narrow road access affected by roadworks.

Army Warrant Officer Questioned After Allegedly Assaulting Wife in Central Kalimantan

An Indonesian Army warrant officer is being questioned after allegedly assaulting his wife, who reportedly caught him with another woman in Central Kalimantan. Military officials say any proven misconduct will be dealt with under the law, while asking the public to allow the investigation to establish the facts.

Bahlil Calls for Bali’s Fuel Reserves to Be Increased to 15 Days’ Supply

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has asked Pertamina to raise Bali’s fuel reserves from 11–12 days to 15 days within a week, bringing the province in line with the national reserve standard. The move follows shipping delays from Java that disrupted distribution; authorities say supplies have stabilised, while national fuel stocks remain broadly secure.

Investment reaches nearly US$218 billion during first two years of Prabowo government

Indonesia recorded Rp3,923.2 trillion (about US$217.9 billion) in investment from October 2024 to September 2025, generating more than 5.48 million jobs; domestic sources accounted for 50.9 per cent, while 51.8 per cent went outside Java. The realised amount represents 30 per cent of the Rp13,032.8 trillion investment target for 2025–2029, which the government links to its goal of achieving 8 per cent economic growth by 2029.

US targets doubling LNG exports, with Southeast Asia in its sights

The US plans to double its liquefied natural gas exports by 2029 and increase shipments to Southeast Asia, where demand is rising alongside the digital economy and manufacturing. US Ambassador to ASEAN Kevin Kim also highlighted more than US$1.5 billion in Development Finance Corporation commitments for regional energy infrastructure, and welcomed efforts to strengthen ASEAN’s petroleum security framework.

Observer: Free Health Checks Among the Strongest Achievements of Prabowo-Gibran’s First Two Years

Political observer Ali Rif’an says the Free Health Check (CKG) programme has delivered one of the most tangible results of the Prabowo-Gibran administration, reaching 106.3 million people by 13 October 2026. He says the next priority is to strengthen follow-up care and ensure that programme outputs translate into lasting health benefits for the public.

Education Ministry equips teachers to respond to disasters, from mitigation to recovery

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education is training teachers and education staff in four provinces to strengthen disaster preparedness in schools, covering mitigation, emergency response and post-disaster psychosocial support. The programme aims to help educators protect pupils and maintain learning, with training modules developed alongside Save the Children and the Indonesian Psychological Association (HIMPSI).

Basarnas: All KM Batumandi Passengers Successfully Evacuated

All passengers aboard the fire-stricken KM Batumandi were safely evacuated by joint rescue teams and taken to Merak Port. Crews are now focused on extinguishing remaining fires, while authorities are still verifying the passenger manifest and investigating the cause of the incident.

Public Works Minister: National Road to Aceh’s SIM Airport Needs Widening

Public Works Minister Dody Hanggodo says the national road leading to Sultan Iskandar Muda International Airport in Aceh should be widened to accommodate expected traffic growth over the next two to five years. The ministry is currently carrying out preservation works on a 950-metre stretch, due for completion by the end of this year.

Two Years of Prabowo: Investment and Downstreaming Minister/Head of BKPM

Indonesia recorded Rp3,923.2 trillion in investment and 5.49 million jobs created from the fourth quarter of 2024 through the third quarter of 2026, Investment Minister Rosan Perkasa Roeslani said. The government says it will prioritise investment that supports downstream processing and industrialisation, while streamlining permits through an integrated system linking 28 ministries and agencies to provide greater certainty for investors.

Timeline of KMP Batumandi Fire on Approach to Merak Port

KMP Batumandi caught fire on the approach to Merak Port on Tuesday afternoon while operating the Bakauheni–Merak route. Banten’s Search and Rescue Office deployed personnel and the KN SAR Tetuka, but the number of people aboard and casualty figures had not yet been confirmed at the time of the initial report.

Dasco Urges Investors to ‘Buy Indonesia’, Says Stock Market Will Recover

Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Sufmi Dasco Ahmad has urged confidence in Indonesia’s stock market amid pressure, saying strong fundamentals and national unity will help it recover. He acknowledged capital outflows and repeated assessments by rating agencies, but said Indonesia could overcome these challenges with the right measures.

Police Name Five Suspects in Batam-Bintan Power Blackout Case

Police have named four PLN Batam personnel and a contractor as suspects over the widespread power blackout in Batam and Bintan, which investigators say involved negligence and a failure of the transformer protection system. The outage is estimated to have caused state losses of Rp57.3 billion in customer compensation; the suspects face charges carrying a potential sentence of up to 12 years.

Public Works Ministry targets completion of six sabo dams in Aceh this year

The Public Works Ministry is targeting completion this year of six sabo dams in Aceh as part of post-disaster recovery and flood prevention, with 42 planned across vulnerable river areas. Work will proceed from river mouths inland, beginning with dredging and strengthening before river normalisation and sediment removal further upstream.

Wildfire in the Mount Arjuno-Welirang Area Spreads to Malang and Batu

A wildfire that began in Pasuruan has spread into parts of Malang Regency, Batu City and Mojokerto Regency, with 57 hotspots recorded in Malang. Joint teams, local residents and volunteers are working to contain the blaze, while using firebreaks in areas that cannot be safely reached and monitoring embers along hiking routes.

11 Community Health Centres in Mataram Have Sign-Language-Speaking Health Workers

Mataram has trained two to three health workers in sign language at each of its 11 community health centres, helping patients with disabilities communicate during registration and treatment. The city is also improving accessibility with wheelchair routes, wheelchairs, handrails and accessible toilets.

Apple imposes limits on iPhone Duo purchases in the United States

Apple is reportedly limiting US customers to two iPhone Duo handsets per transaction, although reports from buyers suggest the restriction may not have been applied consistently since pre-orders opened on 16 October 2026. The device sold out within minutes of launch, and Apple says it is working to bring delivery dates forward for customers facing November or December estimates.

No Foreign Assistance Needed Yet, Coordinating Minister Dudung Says Indonesia Can Still Tackle Forest and Land Fires

Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Dudung Abdurrachman says Indonesia has the capacity to manage ongoing forest and land fires, so the government has not declared them a national disaster. Malaysia has offered three helicopters and 52 personnel, but the proposal remains under discussion amid operational and fuel-distribution challenges.

Demonstration at Tugu Tani Ends at 6.30pm

A demonstration involving students and other groups at Tugu Tani in Central Jakarta ended at 6.30pm on Tuesday, with participants dispersing peacefully. Police managed traffic as the crowd left, and conditions and traffic in the surrounding area gradually returned to normal.

Cause of Fire on ASDP-Owned KMP Batumandi Still Under Investigation

ASDP Indonesia Ferry says authorities are investigating the cause of the fire aboard KMP Batumandi, while all passengers and crew have been evacuated safely. The incident occurred as the vessel was manoeuvring towards Merak Port’s Pier VI, and a joint response involving port officials, Basarnas and police is continuing.

Social Affairs Ministry and CIMA Discuss Plans to Help People’s School Graduates Enter the Maritime Industry

Indonesia’s Social Affairs Ministry and the Consortium of Indonesia Manning Agencies (CIMA) are exploring a partnership to provide vocational pathways into the maritime sector for graduates of People’s Schools. The initiative is intended to help students secure further education or employment and support the government’s effort to break intergenerational poverty.

Government Urged to Explain Halal Certification Mandate Delay in Detail

An Indef economist has called on the government to explain why implementation of the mandatory halal certification policy has been postponed for two years, including what remains unready and how progress will be measured. He says the delay should be used to address gaps affecting micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), certification capacity and regulatory coordination, while preserving legal certainty and building Indonesia’s halal industry.

Bareskrim investigates possible negligence or sabotage behind Batam-Bintan blackout

Indonesia’s Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim) is investigating whether negligence or deliberate sabotage caused the widespread power outage in Batam and Bintan on 12 October 2026. Five people have been named as suspects, while investigators examine a CCTV camera that was not pointing at a substation transformer and why a fault at one location affected the wider electricity system.

Monas Protesters Disperse; Traffic on Medan Merdeka Selatan Reopens

A student protest outside the IRTI area of Jakarta’s Monas monument dispersed peacefully at around 6.20pm on Tuesday, after a brief confrontation with police over a fire set during the demonstration. Medan Merdeka Selatan, which had been closed, has reopened, although traffic remains heavy.

Samsung Galaxy S27 Pro and Ultra to Have a Different Design from Their Predecessors

A leaked image of Galaxy S27-series phone cases suggests that the standard and Plus models will retain designs similar to the Galaxy S26 and S26+, while the Pro and Ultra will look different from their predecessors. The latest leak adds to previously reported details about the upcoming phones’ cameras, chipsets, memory and storage options, battery capacity and software.

A look at the high point of joint TNI and Australian military exercise in Situbondo

Indonesian and Australian forces held an integrated live-fire exercise in Situbondo, East Java, as the culmination of the Keris Woomera 2026 joint exercise. The drills featured several weapons systems and underscored military cooperation between the TNI and the Australian Defence Force.

ASDP: All KMP Batumandi Passengers Evacuated; No Fatalities

All passengers and crew aboard the KMP Batumandi were evacuated after the ferry caught fire while approaching Merak Port in Banten. ASDP said no one was killed; the suspected source was a spark near the stern, and the cause and any disruption to port services remained under assessment.

Rene Turos Group distributes 1,600 books to encourage reading

Rene Turos Group is distributing 1,600 books to widen public access to reading materials and encourage reading interest as it marks its 16th anniversary. The programme includes donations to a pesantren and surprise book packages for readers, with the publisher saying its success will be measured by the knowledge readers gain, not just the number of books handed out.

Legislator Hands Over Agricultural Machinery in Jember to Boost Food Production

DPR Commission VI member Kawendra Lukistian has provided Jember farmers with one combine harvester and seven water pumps to support agricultural work and raise productivity. The initiative reflects the government’s food-security and self-sufficiency goals, while farmers were also invited to share their concerns and challenges.

Ministry supports local policies to protect children in digital spaces

The Ministry of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection (KemenPPPA), together with UNICEF Indonesia, is supporting the integration of child protection in digital spaces into local policies. A workshop involving 105 participants from 21 provinces aims to strengthen the implementation of child-protection regulations through prevention, response and cross-sector collaboration.

KMP Batumandi Ferry Catches Fire at Merak; Cause Under Investigation

All passengers and crew aboard the KMP Batumandi were evacuated after a fire broke out as the ferry approached its berth at Merak Port in Banten. Authorities are investigating the cause, while ASDP says coordinated emergency response and the safety of those on board remain its priorities.

Asset Recovery Agency to Track Borrowers in KSP Indosurya Case

Indonesia’s Asset Recovery Agency will trace borrowers linked to the KSP Indosurya banking crime case and investigate their assets if they do not repay their loans in good faith. The move aims to maximise compensation for more than 3,000 victims, who suffered losses exceeding Rp8 trillion; the agency has begun distributing Rp229.4 billion from assets seized from the cooperative’s convicted owner.

KAI Daop 8 Records 2.26 Million Tonnes of Freight Through September 2026

KAI Daop 8 Surabaya transported 2.26 million tonnes of freight from January to September 2026, an 8.37% increase on the same period last year. Containerised cargo and fuel were the largest commodities, highlighting rail’s role in supporting industrial and commercial distribution and energy supplies.

East Kalimantan accelerates industrial downstreaming to boost sustainable regional revenue

East Kalimantan is seeking to reduce its reliance on central government transfers and extractive industries by accelerating economic transformation and industrial downstreaming. The provincial government aims for at least half of its regional budget to come from locally generated revenue within three years, with palm oil and energy processing among the priority sectors.

Creative Economy Ministry Provides Financial Management Support to Creative Businesses

The Ministry of Creative Economy is helping creative entrepreneurs strengthen financial management and business models so they can qualify for financing. Through its CreaFIN programme, the ministry has trained 50 participants in Samosir and connected them with information on credit schemes, including subsidised-interest loans and KUR.

Indonesia urges universities to accelerate net-zero transition

Indonesia’s higher education ministry has launched Net Zero Campus guidelines and a report to encourage universities to advance towards net-zero emissions by 2060 or sooner. With about 200 campuses already involved and roughly 4,000 institutions and 11 million people across the sector, the initiative aims to embed sustainability in campus management while aligning with national development and climate goals.

Prabowo Set to Inaugurate Indonesia’s Second-Largest EV Battery Plant

President Prabowo Subianto is expected to inaugurate the Karawang electric-vehicle battery plant, operated by a joint venture involving Indonesia Battery Corporation and CATL, although it has already been running since July 2026. The facility’s first phase has a capacity of 6.9 GWh, with plans to expand to 15 GWh through an estimated US$1.2 billion investment, supporting Indonesia’s battery supply chain and energy-storage production.

Indosurya Cooperative Victims Recount Six-Year Fight for Compensation

Indonesia’s Asset Recovery Agency has distributed Rp229.4 billion in the first compensation payment to victims of the Indosurya Savings and Loans Cooperative fraud, equivalent to just 2.3 per cent of their verified losses. Victims welcomed the payment after a six-year campaign but urged authorities to recover more assets and bring a fugitive suspect back to Indonesia.

Kim Jong Un Appears in New Photos After Death Rumours

North Korean state media published photographs showing Kim Jong Un visiting a clothing and footwear exhibition with his wife and daughter, following online rumours that he had suffered a brain haemorrhage and died. The images have not been independently verified, and their precise date is unclear; Kim was quoted praising the products as evidence of progress in the light industry sector.

Man in West Jakarta Intimidated by Debt Collectors

Eko Febriansyah says a group of debt collectors surrounded and threatened him in Kalideres after he refused to let them inspect his motorbike, with one allegedly striking his vehicle. Police responded to his emergency call and detained five people in connection with the incident.

VinFast VF MPV 7 Wins Marketeers Editor’s Choice Award

VinFast’s VF MPV 7 has received the “Inspiring Product Service MPV EV of the Year” award at the 2026 Marketeers Editor’s Choice Awards. The company says the recognition supports its effort to make electric vehicles more accessible in Indonesia, alongside its ownership incentives and expansion of charging and after-sales networks.

OJK says capital-market sanctions are imposed in a measured manner

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) says it imposes capital-market sanctions cautiously and in accordance with legal procedures, following fines totalling Rp2.1 trillion against three listed companies. It is also investigating potential violations involving other parties and 31 shares flagged for suspected criminal breaches, but has not set a completion date for those investigations.

MP Urges Fuel Distribution in Bali to Be Maintained to Avoid Disrupting Tourism

A member of the House of Representatives has called on Pertamina to address fuel distribution problems after long queues formed at petrol stations in Bali. He said the disruption could affect transport, trade and tourism, and urged a comprehensive review of logistics and contingency planning rather than relying on assurances about national fuel stocks.

KMP Batumandi Catches Fire off Merak, Hundreds of Passengers Evacuated

The passenger ferry KMP Batumandi caught fire while waiting to dock near Merak Harbour in Banten, prompting the evacuation of hundreds of passengers and crew. The cause of the blaze and any casualties had not been confirmed as rescue teams continued their response.

SOE Agency Deputy: ESG Is Not Just a Business Strategy but Part of National Resilience

Tedi Bharata, deputy head of Indonesia’s SOE Regulatory Agency, says environmental, social and governance (ESG) principles should be treated as part of the country’s business continuity planning and national resilience. He highlights domestic biofuel feedstocks as a way to reduce reliance on imported energy, while calling for collaboration among government, state-owned enterprises and private companies to build sustainable supply chains and attract young talent.

Coal Stocks More Resilient to MSCI Shock; Indo Premier Picks AADI and PTBA

Thermal coal shares have fallen less than the wider Indonesian market since MSCI’s announcement, supported by strong coal prices, attractive dividend yields and limited foreign ownership. Indo Premier maintains an overweight view on commodities, naming AADI and PTBA as its top coal picks while flagging foreign-ownership and debt risks across the sector.

Japan Sends Rocket to Retrieve Rock Samples from a Moon Orbiting Mars

Japan has launched the MMX mission to collect samples from Phobos, one of Mars’s moons, and return them to Earth in 2031. The mission will also study Deimos, helping scientists investigate whether the two moons are captured asteroids or debris from an ancient impact on Mars.

UNM Team Brings Digital Innovation to Cimulang Village

A team from Universitas Nusa Mandiri has introduced a digital platform to help Cimulang Village manage public and social services more effectively. The system consolidates data on vulnerable residents, people with disabilities, Posyandu services and social-work cases, with further modules planned in partnership with the village government.

Nine Warehouses in Pasir Jaya, Tangerang, Destroyed by Fire

A fire swept through nine warehouses in Tangerang, including facilities storing Shopee parcels and producing shoes, with losses estimated at billions of rupiah. No casualties were reported, and police are investigating the cause after an initial suspicion of an electrical short circuit.

Trump Again Urges New Mexico to Change Its Name to New America

US President Donald Trump has renewed his call for New Mexico to be renamed “New America”, claiming the change would boost property values, incomes and state pride. The article places the proposal alongside Trump’s other renaming efforts, some of which have faced resistance or legal obstacles.

Irrigation strengthened amid El Niño to support food security: Indonesian government

Indonesia’s Public Works and Agriculture ministries are jointly mapping irrigation needs and upgrading networks to improve water access for farmland as El Niño threatens food production. The government says faster rehabilitation and construction, guided by Presidential Instruction No. 2 of 2025, will support sustainable productivity and food self-sufficiency.

Scenes of Devastation After Sudden Heavy Rain: 10 Dead

At least 10 people have died in floods and landslides in Veracruz, Mexico, after heavy rain caused rivers to overflow. Authorities have suspended classes in 29 municipalities, warned residents of continuing weather risks and urged people to follow evacuation orders.

Cassava Sells for Just Rp 2,000 per Kg, Keladen Residents Seek Ways to Boost Their Income

Residents of Keladen in East Kalimantan are learning to turn low-priced cassava into mocaf flour, hoping to create a new source of income after a fungal disease damaged their banana crop. The initiative, supported by an ITB team, has been proposed as a village small-business product, but its ability to raise incomes will depend on production costs, selling prices and demand.

Fathimah Azzahra and AADC’s Mamet Voice Their Demands at Tugu Tani

BEM UI deputy chair Fathimah Azzahra and actor Dennis Adhiswara joined a demonstration at Jakarta’s Tugu Tani, where protesters presented five demands, including declaring forest and land fires a national disaster and lowering education costs. Organisers said they changed the protest format and location to make it easier for people to gather and to foreground issues directly affecting ordinary citizens; the demonstration remained peaceful through 5.17pm.

Indonesia’s Top 10 Foreign Investors in 2026: Singapore Leads

Singapore was Indonesia’s largest source of realised foreign investment in 2026, at US$8.82 billion, followed by Hong Kong and China. By September, total investment had reached Rp1,539.2 trillion, or 75.4% of the government’s annual target, with downstreaming sectors attracting Rp480 trillion.

Nigeria Reaps Oil Windfall, with Indonesia Among Its Buyers

Nigeria’s gross crude-oil production was valued at an estimated ₦52.12 trillion (US$39.15 billion) in January–September 2026, already exceeding the value recorded for the whole of 2025 despite lower output volumes. Higher global prices, fuelled by the Iran war and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, drove the increase; Nigeria was also Indonesia’s largest crude-oil supplier in the first half of 2026.

KPK Urges Pekalongan Civil Servants to Strengthen Integrity in Carrying Out Their Duties

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has urged civil servants in Pekalongan Regency to uphold integrity, honesty and commitment, warning that everyday acts of dishonesty can develop into larger-scale corruption. KPK official Johnson Ridwan Ginting said corruption harms the public through poorer services and stalled development, even when people do not immediately recognise themselves as its victims.

Strong Business Fundamentals: BNI (BBNI) Announces Continuation of Share Buyback

Bank Negara Indonesia (BNI) is continuing its share buyback programme, previously announced in July 2026 and scheduled to run until 26 October, while considering whether to extend it. The bank says the move reflects confidence in its business outlook and will be carried out cautiously, with due regard for market conditions, capital adequacy and shareholder interests; its assets, lending, deposits and profits all grew through August 2026.

Cirebon Trade and Industry Office Records US$56.30m in Rattan Exports

Cirebon Regency’s rattan exports reached US$56.30 million in January–September 2026, with rattan furniture accounting for more than US$52 million and baskets contributing US$3.86 million. The products were shipped to markets across the Americas, Europe, Asia, the Middle East and Africa, while local authorities are working to sustain the industry through market promotion and attention to raw-material supplies.

Army Investigates Warrant Officer Accused of Assaulting Wife and Child After Being Caught in Alleged Affair

The Indonesian Army is investigating Warrant Officer Syahrir after a social-media video allegedly showed him assaulting his wife and child following a confrontation over an alleged affair. The Army says it will take firm action if the inquiry establishes a violation, while urging the public to allow the investigation to proceed.

Airlangga Responds to Reports of Free Mobile Phones for the Public

Economic Affairs Coordinating Minister Airlangga Hartarto says the government has never discussed a plan to distribute free mobile phones to support social assistance payments. A separate mass bank-account programme remains on track, pending regulations, with about Rp3.8 trillion earmarked for its implementation through BRI and Bank Syariah Indonesia.

Tourism Ministry promotes Labuan Bajo’s tourist attractions

Indonesia’s Tourism Ministry has organised a familiarisation trip to promote inland Flores destinations alongside Labuan Bajo’s marine tourism, bringing travel agents, media representatives and content creators to local villages and attractions. The initiative also aims to build partnerships with local tourism businesses and encourage longer, more responsible visits that spread economic benefits among communities.

Pertamina Increases Fuel Supply to Ease Queues at Jember Petrol Stations

Pertamina Patra Niaga has raised subsidised fuel deliveries to Jember by around 20 per cent, increasing Pertalite supply from about 570 kilolitres a day to between 670 and 700 kilolitres. The move is intended to ease queues as motorists switch from non-subsidised Pertamax, while local authorities’ work-from-home and distance-learning measures have also helped reduce demand; officials say stocks remain secure and urge residents not to panic-buy.

2,179 Disasters Hit Indonesia: 21 People Missing and 5.8 Million Displaced

Indonesia recorded 2,179 disasters from January to 20 October 2026, including 1,000 forest and land fires and 580 floods, according to the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB). The fires have killed 422 people, left 21 missing and forced 5.8 million to flee, while more than 570 hectares of burned land remained unextinguished as of Monday.

Protecting Children in the Digital Space: Ministry Stresses Policy Integration

Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection Minister Arifah Fauzi has urged local governments to incorporate national child-protection policies for the digital space into regional regulations and programmes. The call comes as internet use among children rose from 49.59 per cent in 2020 to 73.90 per cent in 2024, increasing their exposure to online harm.

Five Suspects Named as Police Trace Batam-Bintan Blackout to Monkey, with State Losses of Rp57.3bn

Police have named five people as suspects over a blackout that affected Batam and Bintan, alleging negligence allowed a monkey to enter a substation and trigger a short circuit. Investigators say the outage caused estimated state losses of Rp57.3 billion, while forensic tests linked hair found at the site to a monkey that died there.

Hotspots from Forest and Land Fires Increase

BMKG recorded a sharp rise in high-confidence fire hotspots on 19 October, particularly in Central and West Kalimantan, alongside smoke detected across several Indonesian regions. Persistently hot and dry weather is heightening the need for vigilance against forest and land fires.

Central Java’s Assisted Village Programme Provides Business Capital as Well as Home Repairs

Central Java’s assisted village programme combines home repairs and basic services with business capital and other support to tackle extreme poverty in Kendalrejo, Pemalang Regency. The initiative brings together provincial and local authorities, Baznas, state-owned enterprises and private companies, with the aim of improving residents’ welfare and helping them build sustainable livelihoods.

Kenyan Cult Leader Found Guilty over Deaths of 191 People

A Kenyan court has convicted Paul Nthenge Mackenzie and 28 associates over the deaths of 191 people, including 190 children, finding that the church operated as a cult and that followers were coerced into life-threatening fasting. The deaths occurred in Shakahola between January 2021 and September 2023; medical findings attributed 76 child deaths to starvation, while causes could not be determined in 112 cases.

ASDP Confirms Response to Fire on KMP Batumandi off Merak

ASDP said all passengers and crew were evacuated after a fire broke out aboard the ferry KMP Batumandi as it approached Merak Port in Banten. The cause of the fire is not yet known, and a joint response involving port personnel, Basarnas and police is under way.

Ferry Catches Fire Near Merak Port

The passenger ferry Batumandi caught fire in the Sunda Strait near Merak Port, prompting a joint rescue effort to evacuate those on board. Authorities said the evacuation was still under way, with casualty figures and the cause of the fire yet to be confirmed as officials gather information and investigate.

James Riady: Diplomacy Must Deliver Investment and Jobs

Kadin Indonesia deputy chairman James Riady says the success of Indonesia’s international relations should be judged by tangible economic outcomes, including investment, exports, industrial development and jobs. He urges sustained diplomacy, stronger investor confidence and follow-through that extends opportunities beyond Jakarta and major companies.

Tips for Keeping Blood Sugar Balanced at Every Meal

Nutrition experts say meal composition can affect how quickly blood sugar rises after eating, recommending protein and high-fibre, minimally processed carbohydrates. They also advise using the Diabetes Plate method and choosing water or unsweetened tea over sugary drinks to support steadier glucose levels.

BPN: Certification of Outer Small Islands to Ensure Legal Certainty

The Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency says it is continuing to certify land parcels in coastal areas and small islands, including those on Indonesia’s outermost borders, to clarify ownership and protect state assets and coastal communities. Of 111 outer small islands, 87 have been certified; across Indonesia’s 17,343 small islands, only 1,349 have so far been certified, leaving a substantial registration effort ahead.

KMP Batumandi Catches Fire While Preparing to Dock at Merak Port

The KMP Batumandi caught fire near Merak Island while manoeuvring to berth at Merak Port, prompting a joint emergency response. ASDP said all passengers and crew had been evacuated, while the cause of the fire remained unknown.

KMP Batumandi Ferry Catches Fire; Passengers Climb to Bridge and Deck to Escape

The KMP Batumandi caught fire near Merak Port in Cilegon on Tuesday afternoon, prompting passengers to climb to the vessel’s bridge and deck while awaiting rescue. Banten police said evacuation was under way, with the number of casualties and the cause of the fire still unknown.

Indonesia Still Has Vast Oil Potential, with 108 Basins Untapped

Pertamina Hulu Energi says only 20 of Indonesia’s 128 hydrocarbon basins are currently being worked, leaving 108 largely unexplored. Developing them could help narrow the gap between domestic crude consumption of 1.6 million barrels per day and production of about 600,000 barrels per day, but would require substantial investment and could take five to seven years to yield first oil.

Indramayu Regency expands SeHAT programme to protect fishers’ assets

Indramayu Regency is distributing 1,500 land certificates to fishers and fish farmers through its SeHAT programmes, giving them greater legal certainty over their assets. The local government is also providing employment social security, business equipment and fish-farming support, while releasing more than 306,000 fish fingerlings to help sustain fisheries resources.

Psychologist explains signs of ‘micro-cheating’ that can erode trust

Psychologists describe ‘micro-cheating’ as secretive or flirtatious behaviour that may lead a partner to question emotional or physical commitment, even when it does not involve physical infidelity. They advise against jumping to conclusions and stress that open communication and mutually agreed boundaries are essential to preserving trust.

ASDP-Owned KMP Batumandi Catches Fire: Passengers and Crew Evacuated

All passengers and crew aboard ASDP’s KMP Batumandi were evacuated after a fire broke out as the ferry approached Merak port in Banten. Authorities are investigating the cause, while a joint team from the port, Basarnas and police continues to handle the incident.

Mother Dies on Motorbike While on Her Way to Seek Treatment; Youngest Child Can Only Watch

A 38-year-old woman in Ponorogo died suddenly after stopping her motorbike outside Slahung Community Health Centre while travelling to see a midwife. She leaves four children, including a four-year-old whose distressing presence at the scene was captured in images; the children are now living with their aunt.

Turkish Embassy: COP31 to Deliver Concrete Climate Projects with Adequate Funding

Turkey says it intends to make COP31, scheduled for Antalya in November 2026, an implementation-focused conference that converts climate pledges into funded projects. Its proposed agenda includes 2035 targets for electrification, waste reduction and building energy efficiency, alongside financing mechanisms designed to connect climate commitments and local urban projects with investors.

BRAN Chief Calls for Productive Land to Improve Public Welfare

National Agrarian Reform Agency head Dedi Prasetyo says land reform must go beyond distributing land and provide people with support to use it productively and sustainably. Talks with the Transmigration Minister focused on the legal status and use of approximately 3.1 million hectares of transmigration land, including overlapping claims in Natuna and land occupied by communities.

US Defence Secretary Makes Undisclosed Visit to Israel to Meet Netanyahu: What Did They Discuss?

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth reportedly met Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during an unannounced visit, with Israeli officials saying they discussed Iran. The visit comes amid stalled efforts to end the US-Israeli conflict with Tehran and discussions about potentially resuming large-scale military operations, just days before Israel’s legislative election.

OJK Chief Says Regulator Is Going ‘All Out’ on Indonesian Capital Market Reforms

OJK chief Friderica Widyasari Dewi says the regulator has been pursuing sweeping capital market reforms since January 2026, including greater shareholding disclosure, a phased increase in the minimum free float and tighter scrutiny of concentrated ownership. Her remarks follow MSCI’s consultation on potentially downgrading Indonesia’s market classification, while the regulator says investigations must establish evidence before sanctions are imposed.

Two New IDX Reforms After MSCI: Shareholders’ Affiliation Status to Be Disclosed

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) plans two reforms following concerns raised by MSCI, which rattled the domestic stock market. Shares with highly concentrated ownership would be excluded from the Composite Stock Price Index, while disclosures for shareholders owning more than 1% would identify whether they are affiliated; key implementation details remain unspecified.

Deputy Finance Minister Says 70% of Indonesia’s Imports Are Raw Materials, Urges Customs to Stay Alert

Deputy Finance Minister Nurkholisoh Ibnu Aman says more than 70% of Indonesia’s imports are raw materials and semi-finished goods that feed domestic production, making efficient customs procedures crucial to the economy. She called for risk-based vigilance that prevents illicit and unsafe goods from entering without creating unnecessary delays or non-tariff barriers for legitimate businesses.

Halal Certification Requirement Delayed Until 2028, Giving Small Industries More Time

The government has extended the transition period for halal certification requirements for several products and services until October 2028, giving micro, small and medium-sized businesses more time to prepare. The change will be made through an amendment to Government Regulation No. 42 of 2024, with separate deadlines retained for different product and service categories.

Indonesia Delegation Urges Concrete Action to Empower Women Economically at W20

Indonesia’s W20 delegation called for global policy commitments on women’s economic empowerment to be translated into practical support for women-owned small businesses and rural communities. At the W20 Summit in the United States, delegates endorsed recommendations across eight strategic pillars, while Indonesia showcased its SisterNet programme and proposed a W20 Expo to expand women entrepreneurs’ access to markets and networks.

Downstreaming Investment Reaches Rp 1,199 Trillion in Prabowo’s First Two Years in Office

Investment in downstream processing reached Rp 1,199 trillion from the fourth quarter of 2024 to September 2026, accounting for 31.2% of national investment in the first nine months of 2026. Mineral processing dominated, while most investment was located outside Java, led by Central Sulawesi and North Maluku.

Kenyan Cult Leader Found Guilty of Murdering 191 Followers

A court in Mombasa has convicted Paul Mackenzie and 28 co-defendants over the deaths of 190 children and one adult linked to the Shakahola Forest starvation cult. The case has intensified calls for tighter regulation of religious organisations, amid allegations that authorities were slow to respond and revelations that Mackenzie had previously been arrested and released.

UNICEF Says 60,000 Children in Gaza Have Lost a Parent in the War

UNICEF says more than 60,000 children in Gaza have lost one or both parents since the war began, while around 800,000 children remain displaced and humanitarian needs far exceed available funding. The agency also reports that more than 340 children have been killed and hundreds injured since the ceasefire was announced, and urges the parties to comply with the truce and international humanitarian law.

Ustaz in Pandeglang Allegedly Attacked with Machete as Students Clash

A religious teacher in Pandeglang, Banten, says he was struck on the head with bamboo and slashed in the back while passing a clash between two groups of students. He has reported the incident to police but asked that the alleged attacker be counselled rather than punished; police say they are investigating.

New ChatGPT Feature Can See Which Websites Users Have Open

OpenAI has introduced a feature that lets ChatGPT read open Google Chrome tabs, compare information and carry out tasks through a browser. The update offers Chat and Work modes, but the ability to view and interact with browser content also raises security concerns, including prompt-injection risks.

Rainfall in Parts of Indonesia Remains in the Low Category

BMKG forecasts that most of Indonesia will receive low to moderate rainfall, ranging from 0 to 150 mm per ten-day period, from the third ten-day period of October to the second ten-day period of November 2026. Atmospheric waves and nearby cyclonic systems could boost rain-cloud growth in some areas, but the overall forecast remains in the low-to-moderate category.

Myanmar Authorities Release Photos Showing Aung San Suu Kyi’s Current Condition

Myanmar’s authorities have released rare photographs of Aung San Suu Kyi receiving books and letters from King Charles III while under house arrest. Analysts say the move may be intended to portray improved treatment of the former leader and bolster the military-backed government’s legitimacy ahead of an ASEAN summit, as regional discussions continue over Myanmar’s participation.

A Research Culture Must Be Built from the School Years

Indonesia’s KREASI 2026 junior secondary research competition brought together more than 1,000 students, with 350 reaching the final after submitting research proposals. Organisers and education officials say mentoring by researchers and academics can nurture critical thinking and help prepare the next generation of scientists, as Indonesia seeks to strengthen its research capacity.

Malaysia Confident Digital Communications Ties with Indonesia Will Remain Close

Malaysia’s Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil said digital communications ties with Indonesia would remain strong and benefit people in both countries after meeting Indonesian Communications and Digital Minister Meutya Hafid. Fahmi also invited Hafid to attend M360 ASEAN 2027 in Malaysia, as the two countries deepen cooperation in the digital sector.

Passenger Ferry Catches Fire in Merak Waters

The passenger ferry KMP Batu Mandi caught fire as it was preparing to berth at Merak Port in Cilegon, Banten, on 20 October 2026. Evacuation efforts were under way, with local police confirming the incident; the article provides no further details on casualties or the cause of the fire.

UNM and PT KAI Hold AI-Based Business Analysis Training

Universitas Nusa Mandiri and PT Kreasi Alam Inspirasi held an interactive workshop on using artificial intelligence to analyse business data and consumer behaviour. Participants practised turning simulated coffee-shop transaction data into marketing insights, with the organisers saying the training aims to strengthen digital literacy and help businesses improve efficiency and competitiveness.

NTB’s Free Nutritious Meals Programme to Cost Rp4.6 Trillion in 2026, Claimed to Reduce Unemployment

The Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme in West Nusa Tenggara is expected to receive Rp4.6 trillion in funding in 2026, with officials saying it is creating local jobs and supporting the regional economy. The programme’s spending could also help reduce poverty, while authorities are urged to monitor food supplies and distribution to limit inflationary pressure.

Upstream Oil and Gas Sector Hopes for Higher Oil Prices – Here’s Why

SKK Migas says global oil prices above the 2026 state budget’s assumptions could offset weaker-than-planned production volumes and help lift state revenue from the upstream sector. It forecasts receipts reaching 109% of the budget target by year-end, provided the agency and production-sharing contractors accelerate and optimise commercialisation.

Trump Backs Netanyahu, but JD Vance Is Reluctant to Intervene in Israel’s Election

Donald Trump has openly backed Benjamin Netanyahu ahead of Israel’s 27 October legislative election, while Vice-President JD Vance says he will not take sides in Israeli domestic politics. Poll projections cited in the article indicate Netanyahu’s bloc may fall short of the 61 seats needed for a Knesset majority, making coalition negotiations crucial after the vote.

Cross-Border Haze Response Must Involve Corporations

A senior Indonesian lawmaker says investigations into forest and land fires and transboundary haze should examine corporate ownership, funding and supply-chain links across borders, alongside local concession holders. He called for transparent evidence-sharing and equal law enforcement, while stressing that corporate links alone do not prove involvement in land burning.

Tuanku Tambusai Military Police Detain TNI Member Suspected in 46.93kg Riau Meths Case

Military police have detained a TNI soldier suspected of involvement in the circulation of 46.93kg of methamphetamine uncovered by Riau Police in Pekanbaru. The soldier faces possible dismissal, while authorities say the investigation is continuing to identify others in the alleged international drug network.

Social Affairs Ministry and CIMA to Help People’s School Graduates Enter Maritime Industry

The Social Affairs Ministry and the Consortium of Indonesia Manning Agencies (CIMA) are discussing a partnership to provide vocational training and career pathways in the maritime sector for graduates of People’s Schools. The initiative is part of efforts to prevent poverty passing between generations by ensuring students can continue their education or find work after graduating.

Prosecutors Seek to Recover Indosurya Victims’ Funds and Pursue Borrowers’ Debts

Indonesia’s Asset Recovery Agency says it will pursue both convicted Indosurya owner Henry Surya’s assets and outstanding debts owed by borrowers to the savings and loan co-operative. The first restitution payment of Rp 229.4 billion has been distributed from recovered cash and auction proceeds, but this is a small share of the Rp 8.06 trillion in verified losses recorded for 3,317 victims.

KPK warns that family ‘flexing’ can fuel corruption

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) says lavish displays of wealth within families can encourage corrupt behaviour, while families can also help strengthen integrity. It is expanding its integrity-focused family programme with community groups and government agencies, including the National Population and Family Planning Board, and will run the programme in Bengkulu in October 2026.

Investment Realisation Reaches Rp1,539.2 Trillion, Equal to 75.4% of Target

Indonesia recorded Rp1,539.2 trillion in investment from January to September 2026, reaching 75.4% of its annual target, with foreign investment slightly exceeding domestic investment. The government says the investment supported 2.19 million jobs and is streamlining permits—including through a deemed-approval mechanism—to attract higher-quality investment and speed up work permits for foreign staff.

Social Affairs Ministry Sends Aid to Hundreds of Fire Victims in South Bangka

The Social Affairs Ministry has distributed logistics aid worth Rp1.43 billion to families affected by a fire in Serdang Hamlet, South Bangka, where 333 families were directly affected. The supplies include temporary tents, bedding, food, clothing and school items, as 80 families remain in a central evacuation site and others stay with relatives.

Sahroni Urges Police to Crack Down on Fuel Hoarders in Bali, Calling for Heavy Penalties

Deputy chair of the House of Representatives’ Commission III, Ahmad Sahroni, has backed police action against 21 people accused of hoarding fuel in Bali, amid queues at filling stations. He urged investigators to pursue any larger networks and financiers, saying those responsible should not escape while the public bears the consequences.

With BRI’s KUR, Comring Sawargi Expands and Creates Jobs for Garut Residents

PD Comring Sawargi, a cassava-snack producer in Garut, has used financing from BRI’s People’s Business Credit (KUR) scheme to boost production and widen its market. The business now involves 12 local residents, while a 2025 BRI Research Institute survey found that 66.2% of surveyed BRI borrowers reported increased turnover.

Glodok Traders Fan Themselves with Tens of Millions of Rupiah as Sales Rise 30%

Glodok sellers of fans and air conditioners say sales have climbed by 20–30% amid unusually hot, dry weather across Greater Jakarta, with one trader reporting monthly revenue returning to tens of millions of rupiah. Affordable fans and shop discounts are attracting buyers, while an electronics seller says air-conditioner stocks are also running low.

Deputy Public Works Minister: Irrigation to Be Strengthened During El Niño to Safeguard Food Self-Sufficiency

Deputy Public Works Minister Diana Kusumastuti says irrigation infrastructure is being reinforced during El Niño to secure water supplies for farmland and support sustainable national food self-sufficiency. The Public Works and Agriculture Ministries are mapping irrigation needs and implementing a 2025 presidential instruction to accelerate the rehabilitation and development of irrigation networks.

Ferry Catches Fire Near Merak Port, Passengers Evacuated

The passenger ferry KMP Batumandi caught fire in the waters near Merak Port in Cilegon, Banten, prompting a joint emergency response to evacuate those on board. Authorities said the evacuation was ongoing and that information about casualties and the cause of the fire had not yet been established.

OJK Responds to Allegations of Foreign Manoeuvring Behind MSCI Plan to Downgrade Indonesia’s Capital Market Status

OJK chief Friderica Widyasari Dewi says the regulator will press ahead with capital-market reforms after MSCI signalled a possible downgrade of Indonesia from emerging-market to standalone-market status. Former trade minister Muhammad Lutfi has alleged that foreign institutions are pushing for the move to trigger a sell-off, claims that OJK did not address directly.

Nearly 1,400 Hectares of East Kalimantan Forest Burned Since August 2026

Fires burned 1,393.16 hectares of forest in East Kalimantan between 1 August and 18 October 2026, accounting for 40.85 per cent of the province’s total area affected by fires. Most forest losses occurred in production forests, while authorities say integrated mitigation and increased patrols are needed to contain the threat.

Mother Who Died on Motorbike in Ponorogo Leaves Four Children, One Still a Toddler

Lu'lu Atunni'mah, 38, collapsed and died while riding a motorbike with one of her children in Ponorogo, East Java, leaving four children behind. The Ponorogo Social Affairs Office says support for the children will be arranged in line with their family’s wishes; three are at boarding schools and the youngest is four.

Bareskrim Names Five Suspects in Batam Blackout Case

Indonesia’s Criminal Investigation Agency has named five suspects over a blackout that caused widespread power cuts on Batam and Bintan, including four PLN Batam personnel and one contractor. Investigators say a monkey entered a substation, triggering a short circuit, while safety systems and perimeter security failed; estimated state losses stand at Rp57.3 billion.

Pakpak Bharat Rice Fields to Be Restored as Government Tailors Farm Equipment Support

Pakpak Bharat is accelerating the recovery of 50 hectares of disaster-affected rice fields, while officials assess whether existing agricultural machinery suits local field conditions. The recovery plan also includes repairs to the Salak–Kuta Liang road, with safety and construction quality concerns highlighted because the route runs beside a steep slope.

Shares Used as Loan Collateral: What Banks Should Consider to Manage Lending Risks

The Indonesian Banking Development Institute (LPPI) says listed shares can be used as supplementary collateral for corporate loans, but banks must assess market value, liquidity and the borrower’s ability to repay. LPPI’s Trioksa Siahaan says share-price declines alone do not necessarily indicate deteriorating credit quality, while collateral coverage and the ability to liquidate large holdings should be monitored.

People’s Schools expand access to education for children from vulnerable families

Katingan Deputy Regent Firdaus says the Integrated People’s School 1 is helping children from vulnerable families access education and improve their prospects. The school provides new facilities, laptops and three meals a day, while local officials hope it will contribute to reducing poverty and improving family welfare.

Analyst Says Bali’s New Energy Project Will Benefit the Community

BP and Inpex have each acquired a 50 per cent participating interest in the Agung I and Agung II offshore exploration blocks near Bali, with a combined investment commitment of US$42.7 million. An energy economist says the partnership signals continued investor interest in Indonesia’s upstream sector, while any gas discovery could boost local revenues and help meet Bali’s electricity needs.

ASDP-Owned Batumandi Ferry Catches Fire as It Approaches Merak Port

A fire broke out aboard ASDP Indonesia Ferry’s KMP Batumandi as it was manoeuvring to berth at Merak Port on Tuesday afternoon. All passengers and crew were evacuated, while a joint response involving port officials, Basarnas and police continued; the cause of the fire has not yet been established.

Industry Minister Unveils Push to Revive Indonesia’s Shipbuilding Sector

Industry Minister M Sarmuji says Indonesia lags Vietnam in building large tankers and still imports some vessels, despite substantial domestic shipbuilding potential. The government is preparing a 2026–2030 roadmap to expand shipyard capacity, boost domestic content and technology, and reduce imports amid a sizeable market opportunity.

Grand Dafam Braga Bandung Partners with SLB Negeri A Pajajaran

Grand Dafam Braga Bandung has partnered with Bandung’s SLB Negeri A Pajajaran to offer workplace placements for students with special needs, while also training hotel staff to serve guests with disabilities appropriately. The initiative aims to support inclusive education, build students’ workplace skills and independence, and improve accessibility and respectful service in the hospitality sector.

ASDP Confirms Fire on KMP Batumandi Near Merak

ASDP Indonesia Ferry confirmed a fire broke out aboard the KMP Batumandi near Merak as the vessel was approaching its berth at Merak Port. All passengers and crew were evacuated safely, while a joint response involving port officials, Basarnas and police continued; the cause of the fire remains unknown.

Minister: Children Do Not Yet Understand the Risks of Online Violence

Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection Minister Arifah Fauzi says children’s growing internet use is not matched by their ability to recognise and respond to online violence. A 2024 national survey found children continue to face cyberbullying and non-contact sexual violence, as internet use among children rose from 49.59 per cent in 2020 to 73.90 per cent in 2024; the government has introduced regulations and a roadmap focused on prevention, response and collaboration.

Karawang Receives ‘Very Good’ Award from Investment Minister

Karawang Regency has received a ‘very good’ rating from Indonesia’s Minister of Investment and Downstreaming for its one-stop integrated services and efforts to accelerate business licensing in 2026. The regency recorded Rp20.43 trillion in investment in the first half of the year, which officials hope will support jobs and local economic growth.

Prabowo Summons Airlangga, Suahasil Nazara and BI Governor to the Palace

President Prabowo Subianto held a closed-door meeting with economic ministers, the National Economic Council and Bank Indonesia Governor Destry Damayanti at the presidential palace in Jakarta. The meeting’s agenda was not disclosed, while Foreign Minister Arrmanatha Christiawan Nasir separately briefed Prabowo on UN Secretary-General António Guterres’s recent visit to Indonesia.

Pertamina Struggles to Crack Down on Subsidised Fuel Resellers in East Nusa Tenggara: Here’s Why

Pertamina says it has struggled to stop resellers repeatedly queuing for subsidised fuel in East Nusa Tenggara, citing the sellers’ financial dependence on the small profits to cover living costs and loan repayments. Fuel shortages have also been linked to delayed deliveries and a shift by non-subsidised fuel users to Pertalite, while Pertamina says the province’s 2026 quota increase was approved at just over 1% rather than the requested 5%.

Two Years of Prabowo-Gibran Government See BKPM Record Rp 3,923.2 Trillion in Investment

Indonesia recorded Rp 3,923.2 trillion in investment during the first two years of the Prabowo-Gibran administration, accounting for 30.1% of the country’s investment requirement for 2025–2029 and supporting nearly 5.5 million jobs. Downstream-processing investment reached Rp 480 trillion in January–September 2026, while the government says new risk-based licensing rules are intended to reduce uncertainty and shorten permit processing times.

Thanks to the Free Nutritious Meals Programme, the Share of Pupils Hungry at School Falls to 16 per cent

Indonesia’s National Nutrition Agency says the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme has reduced the share of pupils arriving at school hungry from more than 56 per cent to about 16 per cent, while reported fruit and protein consumption has also risen. The agency is piloting buffet-style meals and tightening oversight through kitchen CCTV and hygiene certification, as programme spending reached Rp153.2 trillion by 30 September 2026.

Man Suspected of Stealing Wedding Ang Pao Box Faces Up to Seven Years in Prison

A 38-year-old man has been charged in Singapore over the alleged theft of a wedding gift box containing about S$1,500 (approximately Rp21 million) at Raffles Hotel. If convicted, he could face up to seven years in prison and a fine; police say CCTV footage helped identify him.

PKS Calls for Reform of Indonesia’s Capital Market Governance

PKS president Almuzzammil Yusuf has called for a comprehensive overhaul of Indonesia’s capital market governance after market volatility unsettled investors and wiped more than Rp1,000 trillion from market capitalisation in less than a week. He said restoring public and investor confidence is essential, and urged the relevant authorities to improve transparency and strengthen the market’s foundations.

Rocky Gerung Says He Will Remain Critical Despite Joining Presidential Advisory Council

Rocky Gerung says his appointment to President Prabowo Subianto’s Presidential Advisory Council will not blunt his criticism of government policy. He describes himself as representing the academic community and argues that independent, radical criticism is needed to challenge flaws within the system.

National Investment Reaches Rp1,539.2 Trillion by September 2026

Indonesia recorded Rp1,539.2 trillion in investment from January to September 2026, equivalent to 75.4% of its target, with the latest quarter contributing Rp528.7 trillion and the period generating more than 2.19 million jobs. Foreign investment slightly exceeded domestic investment, while activity outside Java accounted for just over half of total inflows; downstreaming investment reached Rp480 trillion, concentrated largely outside Java and in the mineral sector.

Banjarbakula Water Management Agency Increases Raw Water Supply Capacity to 450 Litres per Second

The Banjarbakula Drinking Water Management Agency has added two pumps to raise emergency raw water capacity from 150 to about 450 litres per second, helping safeguard supply if its transmission pipeline leaks again. It has also proposed a 500-litre-per-second water abstraction permit and will coordinate with the relevant river basin agency and other authorities before implementing the plans.

Apple to Launch New Devices on 28 October 2026

Apple is planning a media event in Los Angeles on 28 October, reportedly focused on new Mac and iPad products. Expected announcements include touchscreen MacBooks, M6-powered Macs and an OLED iPad mini, alongside updates to the MacBook Pro and iMac ranges.

Social Affairs Ministry Integrates Welfare Assistance with Empowerment for School for the People Parents

Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf says social assistance should be linked to economic empowerment, using the School for the People programme to support families towards greater self-reliance. A pilot in Greater Bandung is training 100 parents and guardians to develop microbusinesses, with officials aiming to extend the approach to tens of thousands of families and help break the cycle of intergenerational poverty.

HIPMI Praises Economic and Investment Performance Under Prabowo-Gibran’s First Two Years

Indonesia’s young entrepreneurs’ association, HIPMI, has praised economic growth, investment, downstream processing and poverty reduction during the first two years of President Prabowo Subianto and Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s administration. It cited Rp3,923.2 trillion in investment and 5.48 million jobs created, while calling for regulatory certainty, easier financing and stronger local-business participation to sustain growth.

Water Hyacinth Initiative Earns PLN IP UBP Saguling an ESG Award 2026

PT PLN Indonesia Power’s UBP Saguling has received the Community Empowerment & Economic Impact award at Republika’s ESG Now Awards 2026 for its programme turning water hyacinth from the Saguling Reservoir into craft products. The initiative is intended to boost local incomes while helping protect the reservoir, illustrating how the company combines environmental management with community economic empowerment.

Prabowo marks two years in office amid economic gains and mounting challenges

President Prabowo Subianto’s administration points to economic growth and advances in food and energy security, but costly welfare commitments—including a proposed tuition-fee abolition and the free meals programme—are raising questions about fiscal sustainability. As Indonesia faces market confidence concerns, cabinet changes, political manoeuvring ahead of the 2029 election and worsening haze from fires, Prabowo must turn his promises into lasting results while maintaining economic and political stability.

Bali Tourism Agency Says Fuel Shortages Have Not Affected Visitor Numbers

Bali’s tourism agency says a recent week of fuel shortages has not caused a significant fall in domestic or international visitor numbers, with daily foreign arrivals in mid-October remaining in line with September’s average. Some tour operators adjusted itineraries because of distribution problems, but no official complaints or cancellations have been reported; the agency has urged Pertamina to prevent a recurrence.

Indonesia reports gains in poverty reduction and social welfare

Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf reported increases in disability and elderly rehabilitation services, families moving out of poverty, and support provided through housing and social assistance programmes in 2026. The ministry also expanded verification of beneficiary data and delivered emergency and post-disaster aid, underscoring the scale of the government’s welfare efforts.

Data Centres to Be Regulated, Foreign Investors Asked to Partner with Local Businesses

The government plans to regulate data-centre investment and wants foreign investors to collaborate with national and regional businesses so that local communities share in the benefits. Ministers also called for data-centre and AI Factory development to be coordinated with supporting infrastructure, particularly energy supply, given the facilities’ substantial resource requirements.

Rosan: Downstreaming Is No Longer Just About Building Smelters

Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani says Indonesia’s mineral downstreaming strategy is shifting beyond smelter construction towards integrated industrial ecosystems spanning mining, processing, manufacturing, clean energy and technology. Downstreaming accounts for around 30 per cent of national investment, valued at US$61 billion, while projects including battery production and MIND ID’s mineral value chains aim to capture more value domestically.

SKK Migas: Fiscal Incentives Can Turn Potential into Production

SKK Migas says attractive fiscal incentives, alongside legal and investment certainty, are needed to convert Indonesia’s oil and gas resources into production and strengthen the sector’s competitiveness. The government has identified hydrocarbon prospects across 128 sedimentary basins, but only 20 have so far been developed to support national output.

Asset Recovery Agency Hands Over Proceeds from Henry Surya Asset Sale to Indosurya Victims

Indonesia’s Asset Recovery Agency has handed over Rp229.43 billion from the execution and sale of assets belonging to Henry Surya, founder of the Indosurya savings and loans cooperative, to victims of its fund embezzlement case. More than 3,000 victims reportedly suffered losses exceeding Rp8 trillion; the agency says it will continue tracing assets for further repayments, with this first distribution amounting to about 2.3 per cent of victims’ losses.

Bandung Regency allocates Rp334 billion to repair agricultural irrigation

Bandung Regency has approved Rp334 billion for irrigation construction and repairs, from a total proposal of Rp947 billion, to support farming and its 2026 rice production target. The local government projects output of 480,000–520,000 tonnes and is also protecting 22,000 hectares of sustainable agricultural land and existing paddy fields.

OJK Urges Investors Not to Panic-Sell Shares Amid MSCI-Driven Market Turmoil

Indonesia’s Financial Services Authority (OJK) has urged investors not to sell shares out of panic following a sudden MSCI announcement that unsettled the market. The regulator says trading and market oversight remain normal, and has held briefings to ensure investors receive verified information and help restore orderly trading.

With BRI’s KUR Financing, Comring Sawargi Creates Jobs for Garut Residents

Garut-based snack producer PD Comring Sawargi has used a BRI People’s Business Credit (KUR) loan to increase production, expand sales and involve 12 local residents in its operations. The story reflects wider findings from a BRI Research Institute survey, in which 66.2% of surveyed borrowers reported higher business turnover.

UNM Team Promotes Smart Village Platform in Cimulang, Bogor

A team from Universitas Nusa Mandiri has introduced a Smart Village website in Cimulang, Bogor, designed to make village information more accessible and improve transparent public services. The platform is also intended to help community social workers record and respond to residents’ welfare concerns, with plans to add data on vulnerable groups and integrate Posyandu records.

Video: Kopi Kenangan Targets 4,000 Stores and Aims to Become ASEAN’s Largest Coffee Chain

Kopi Kenangan says it aims to expand to 4,000 outlets by 2030, including a push into eastern Indonesia, with the goal of becoming ASEAN’s largest coffee chain. Its founder says the business supports the domestic economy through employment, local sourcing and annual tax payments of up to Rp372 billion.

Rupiah strengthens to Rp17,992 after US lifts sanctions on Russia

The rupiah gained 0.30 per cent to close at Rp17,992 per US dollar, with analyst Ibrahim Assuabi attributing the move partly to Washington’s withdrawal of sanctions and tariffs related to Russia. He also cited continuing regional conflict, elevated oil prices and Federal Reserve policy uncertainty as factors influencing the currency, while Bank Indonesia’s JISDOR rate strengthened to Rp18,006 per dollar.

Fadli Zon Urges Nusantara Scripts to Find a Place in the Global Digital Space

Culture Minister Fadli Zon says Indonesia’s traditional scripts and oral traditions must be preserved by integrating them into the global digital infrastructure. The launch of internationalised domain names using Balinese, Javanese and Pegon scripts at ICANN87 in Bali marks a step towards wider digital representation, alongside efforts to document, teach and sustain endangered languages and writing systems.

Trenggono: Recognition of Crew Certification Will Expand Job Opportunities

Indonesia and Portugal have completed a mutual recognition agreement covering fishing vessel crew certificates, a move intended to expand Indonesian workers’ access to jobs in Portugal and strengthen maritime cooperation. The agreement recognises qualifications aligned with international standards, while technical arrangements for verification and endorsement remain to be agreed.

Indonesia haze disrupts more than 2,600 flights and forces 14 cancellations on Singapore routes

Haze from Indonesian forest fires affected 2,604 domestic flights between 11 August and 19 October, with 1,420 cancelled or postponed and 1,129 delayed. Fourteen international services between Singapore and Pontianak or Palembang were also cancelled, as authorities stressed that operational decisions would prioritise safety amid poor visibility.

Supreme Court Rejects Prosecutors’ Appeal Against Acquittal of West Lombok Land Office Official

The Supreme Court has rejected prosecutors’ cassation appeal against the acquittal of Baiq Mahyuniati, a West Lombok Land Office official charged in a corruption case involving the sale of local government land. Her lawyer said the ruling vindicates the defence, while two other defendants in the case were convicted and sentenced to prison terms.

Tourism Ministry and BPOM step up food safety in tourism villages

Indonesia’s Tourism Ministry and the Food and Drug Monitoring Agency (BPOM) are expanding cooperation to strengthen food safety in tourism villages through the agency’s Safe Food Village programme and the ministry’s Tourism Village programme. The initiative aims to protect visitors, improve service quality and destination competitiveness, and help local communities produce higher-value food products.

Food Affairs Minister Outlines Four Steps to Improve Free Nutritious Meals Programme in Prabowo-Gibran’s Second Year

Food Affairs Coordinating Minister Zulkifli Hasan has set out four measures to improve the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, focusing on expanding access in remote areas, tightening kitchen standards and oversight, improving food safety, and correcting beneficiary data. The government is activating new service units in underserved regions and reviewing operational eligibility, while piloting buffet-style meals at 66 sites across 10 provinces.

Protecting Children from the Trap of the ‘24-Hour Online Friend’ in the Digital Space

As Indonesia marks two years of the Prabowo-Gibran administration, digital expert Enda Nasution warns that children face risks from misleading AI-generated information, deepfakes and emotional dependence on chatbots. He says families, schools, government and technology companies must work together to strengthen digital literacy, protect children’s privacy and build safety into services, alongside risk-based rules such as PP TUNAS.

Under the Welcome Monument, Concerns Over the Climate Crisis and Cost-of-Living Pressures Are Voiced

Greenpeace Indonesia activists staged a banner protest at Jakarta’s Welcome Monument, linking the climate crisis to rising living costs and worsening disasters. They urged the government to take concrete action, arguing that environmental impacts also threaten livelihoods, food availability and household welfare.

Canadian Business Sentiment Weakens as Prices Rise – RBC

Canadian business sentiment weakened sharply after trade talks with the United States failed on 21 August, with export and investment expectations deteriorating and inflation expectations climbing. RBC said half of surveyed firms plan to pass higher costs on to customers, while consumers’ long-term inflation expectations also rose significantly, partly amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

Student Protest Outside Yogyakarta Regional Council Turns Heated

A protest by students outside the Yogyakarta Regional People’s Representative Council (DPRD DIY) became tense after demonstrators tried twice to enter the building and clashed with police. The Yogyakarta Melawan group continued its protest while other student groups held separate speeches; police later pushed the crowd back after bottles were thrown and several demonstrators fell.

Six Transjakarta Routes Shortened or Diverted Amid Demonstrations

Transjakarta has adjusted six routes because of demonstrations near Monas and Jakarta City Hall, shortening three routes and diverting three others. Several stops are temporarily not being served, with operations to be adjusted as traffic conditions develop.

Industry Minister: SMEs Have More Time to Prepare for Mandatory Halal Certification

The government has extended the phased introduction of halal certification requirements for several products and services, in some cases until October 2028, giving small and medium-sized industries more time to prepare. The changes will be made through an amendment to Government Regulation No. 42/2024 and take account of business readiness and the maturity of Indonesia’s halal ecosystem.

If Your Prayers Have Not Been Answered, a Sufi Scholar Offers This Advice

Sufi scholar Sheikh Ibn Ata’illah’s Al-Hikam urges Muslims not to assume that God is delaying a blessing when their prayers or wishes remain unfulfilled. Instead, it counsels self-reflection, greater obedience and patience, trusting that God will provide what is best at the appointed time.

Thousand Islands Regency steps up waste sorting from source to disposal

The Thousand Islands Regency administration is expanding public education and training on waste sorting, with Pramuka Island intended to serve as a zero-waste prototype. Officials say sustained sorting at household level, alongside awareness of the resale value of recyclable materials, is essential to effective downstream processing and community participation.

Telkom Sets Business Strategy Through to 2030, Prioritising Data Centre and AI Investment

Telkom is aligning the strategies of its operating companies under a 2026–2030 group framework, with the aim of strengthening its digital business and clarifying each entity’s role. Selective investment will prioritise fibre networks, data-centre capacity to meet AI computing demand, and network modernisation, while applying strict capital-allocation discipline.

Lack of Signage Raises Safety Concerns as Rp 14.7bn Negara City Upgrade Project Sees Accidents

Residents say inadequate warning signs and construction materials left on the road have contributed to repeated crashes at the Rp 14.7 billion upgrade project in Negara, Jembrana. The publicly funded project has been granted a 21-day extension after delays in approving detailed designs, and is now due to finish on 9 November.

Airlangga Reveals Progress on Free Bank Account Scheme, Regulations in Preparation

The government is preparing regulations for automatically opening bank accounts for Indonesian citizens when they turn 17, linked to their national identity numbers and initially provided by state-owned BRI and BSI. Each account is expected to receive an administration-fee-free initial balance of Rp50,000 and could support direct distribution of government assistance and QRIS payments for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises.

Puan Calls for Child Protection Policies to Be Reviewed Amid Rising Bullying Cases

DPR Speaker Puan Maharani has called for a comprehensive review of child protection measures following the deaths of two children allegedly linked to bullying, including a 10-year-old child with Down syndrome in Surabaya. She urged improvements to prevention, accessible reporting, psychological support and rapid response services, particularly at local government level.

Metro Jakarta Policewomen Welcome Protesters with Banners and Human Dialogue

Metro Jaya Police adopted a human-centred approach to securing public demonstrations near the National Monument and Indonesia’s parliament in Jakarta, with policewomen greeting participants and engaging them in dialogue. Police officials said the approach was intended to respect the public’s right to express its views while ensuring the demonstrations and surrounding activities remained safe and orderly.

BGN Continues to Improve MBG Governance and Strengthen Discipline Among SPPG Civil Servants

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) says it is tightening oversight of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, including stricter discipline for civil servants and SPPG staff, real-time kitchen CCTV monitoring and food-safety requirements. It has temporarily closed 1,276 service units lacking hygiene and sanitation certificates; MBG spending had reached Rp153.2 trillion by 30 September 2026, as the government targets 72.4 million beneficiaries in 2027.

Saudi Arabia Intercepts Houthi Missile Headed for Riyadh

Saudi Arabia says it intercepted and destroyed a Houthi ballistic missile aimed at Riyadh, after residents and journalists reported explosions and civil defence issued a brief warning. The incident comes amid renewed Houthi attacks that have disrupted Saudi infrastructure and investment plans, as Yemen’s conflict escalates again.

iPhone Duo Battery Has a Total Capacity of 4,883 mAh

Apple’s EU energy label for the foldable iPhone Duo lists a total battery capacity of 4,883 mAh, apparently confirming earlier reports of two battery cells. The label also indicates up to 51 hours and 30 minutes of operation per charge cycle, with the battery designed to retain performance for at least 1,000 cycles under standard settings.

Prabowo Summons Economic Ministers, National Economic Council and Bank Indonesia to the Palace

President Prabowo Subianto convened senior economic officials, including Bank Indonesia Governor Destry Damayanti and members of the National Economic Council, for a limited meeting at the presidential palace in Jakarta. He also received a routine briefing from Foreign Minister Arrmanatha Christiawan Nasir on UN Secretary-General António Guterres’s recent visit to Indonesia.

Bareskrim names five suspects in Batam–Bintan blackout case

Indonesia’s Criminal Investigation Agency has named five suspects—four from PLN Batam and one contractor—in connection with a blackout that affected Batam and Bintan on 12 October 2026. Investigators say a monkey entering a substation caused a short circuit, while a de-energised fence and malfunctioning protection equipment allowed the fault to spread; estimated state losses total Rp57.3 billion.

Examining the Risks of Agentic AI

Agentic AI can autonomously plan and act, bringing productivity gains but also enabling cybercrime, fraud and supply-chain attacks at scale. The article argues that Indonesia should strengthen its forthcoming AI rules with immutable audit trails, verifiable agent identities and technically enforced human approval for high-impact actions, supported by blockchain and other safeguards.

ITB Patriot Expedition Team Helps Paser Transmigration Residents Turn Cassava into Mocaf

An Institut Teknologi Bandung team is training residents in Keladen, Paser, to process cassava into fermented mocaf flour, adding value to a crop previously sold raw for about Rp2,000 per kilogram. The initiative offers an alternative source of income after disease hit the community’s banana crop, and could also reduce reliance on wheat flour that is difficult to access locally.

Israeli Company Behind Spyware Attacks on Journalists, Tracking Millions of Internet Users

A Citizen Lab investigation says Israeli ad-tech firm Discover-Tech enabled targeted spyware attacks on journalists, including Al Jazeera staff, and facilitated the tracking of millions of internet users. The researchers describe its Controlium platform as a bridge between commercial advertising networks and private surveillance firms, and say the campaign marks the first publicly documented technical confirmation of spyware delivered through online ads without any user click.

Jakarta stocks gain 5.65% amid MSCI-related reform efforts

Jakarta stocks rose 5.65% to close at 5,278 as Indonesian authorities stepped up capital-market reforms to restore investor confidence after MSCI warned the country could be downgraded to standalone-market status. The IDX is considering excluding companies with highly concentrated share ownership from a new JCI calculation mechanism, while global markets remained cautious amid concerns over AI investment returns, borrowing costs and elevated oil prices.

Viral Video Shows TNI Soldier Assaulting Wife After She Catches Him Cheating in Central Kalimantan

The Indonesian Army says it is investigating a viral video that appears to show a soldier assaulting his wife after she confronted him over an alleged affair in Central Kalimantan. The soldier, identified as Pelda Syahrir, is being questioned, and the Army says any proven violation will be dealt with under the law and applicable regulations.

SKK Migas Admits Most of Indonesia’s Oil Fields Are Ageing

SKK Migas says most of Indonesia’s upstream oil and gas blocks are mature, making it harder to sustain output and meet the 2026 oil-lifting target of 610,000 barrels per day. It is relying on intensive drilling, new discoveries and more attractive fiscal incentives, alongside legal and investment certainty, to curb natural declines and draw investment into the sector.

Fourth Liangzhu Forum opens in Hangzhou to promote global heritage dialogue

The fourth Liangzhu Forum has opened in Hangzhou, bringing together hundreds of Chinese and international guests to discuss heritage protection, archaeological cooperation and the role of cultural sites in sustainable development. Since its launch in 2023, the forum has hosted more than 1,300 participants from 115 countries and regions, while Liangzhu’s cultural corridor links conservation with local industries and community wellbeing.

Housing Minister: Government Remains Committed to Delivering Decent Homes

Housing Minister Maruarar Sirait says the government is committed to providing affordable, decent housing and cites measures introduced under President Prabowo, including tax and building-permit exemptions for first-time low-income buyers and an expanded subsidised mortgage quota. Official data show the homeownership backlog fell from 9.64 million households in March 2025 to 9.29 million in March 2026.

Bulog Says Government Rice Stocks Reach 4.55 Million Tonnes

Bulog chief Ahmad Rizal Ramdhani said government rice stocks stood at 4.55 million tonnes in mid-October, down from 5.4 million tonnes in September after large distributions through food assistance and the SPHP price-stabilisation programme. He said supplies remain sufficient for around six months, while the government plans to add one million tonnes of newly packaged Beras Kita Medium to meet demand through March 2027 and prepare for El Niño and possible crop shortfalls.

After Being Blocked at Previous Protests, UI Student Executive Board Demonstrates Without University Jackets or a Command Structure

The University of Indonesia Student Executive Board (BEM UI) tested a more decentralised protest format at Tugu Tani in Jakarta, asking participants to arrive independently and not wear university jackets. Organisers said the approach was intended to reduce disruptions and stress after previous demonstrations were obstructed, while enabling a more open gathering around specific social and civic issues.

Judicial Ethics Panel Dismisses Judge INS with Pension Rights for 129 Days’ Unauthorised Absence

Indonesia’s Judicial Honour Council has permanently dismissed Judge INS, while granting pension rights, after finding that he was absent from work for 129 working days without valid reason. The panel cited repeated disciplinary sanctions and failure to comply with orders, but noted that his record did not involve case handling, bribery or abuse of office.

International body praises South Kalimantan Police for protecting pangolins

The Union of Czech and Slovak Zoological Gardens has recognised South Kalimantan Police for enforcing the law against the illegal trade in pangolin scales. The award follows seizures totalling about 121.9kg of Sunda pangolin scales and two protected hornbill beaks, highlighting international recognition of efforts to combat wildlife trafficking.

Pela Mampang Wins South Jakarta’s 2026 TB Alert Village Award

RW 05 in Pela Mampang has been named South Jakarta’s top TB Alert Village, part of a city-wide effort to accelerate tuberculosis elimination by 2030. South Jakarta now has 260 such villages, with officials calling for stronger cross-sector cooperation, early detection and support for patients’ treatment.

Central Java Government, BNPB and Military Join Efforts to Tackle Fires on Mount Lawu and Mount Sumbing

Central Java is stepping up efforts to control forest and land fires on Mount Lawu and Mount Sumbing, with two military helicopters set to support BNPB’s aerial water-bombing operations. The Lawu fire has affected about 230 hectares, while 152 hikers have been evacuated from Sumbing; authorities are also investigating possible deliberate ignition and urging the public to take precautions.

JCI Surges More Than 3% as China Retaliates Against US, Targeting Elon Musk’s Revenue Source

Indonesia’s Composite Stock Price Index (JCI) rose more than 3% in the first trading session, buoyed by share buyback announcements and commitments from market regulators and the government to address problems in the capital market. Separately, China proposed export restrictions on 12 technologies used to make solar-panel equipment, a move that could hinder US companies, including Tesla, from expanding domestic production.

Volunteers Discuss Forest and Land Firefighting Challenges with Forestry Minister

Volunteers told Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni about operational difficulties they face tackling forest and land fires, including limited support for their running costs and the need for closer coordination. The minister asked officials to follow up on a reported lack of assistance from nearby companies, while participants stressed that the immediate priority is containing the fires and continuing wildlife rescue efforts.

Two Years of Government: Youth and Sports Ministry Records Sporting Achievements

Indonesia’s Youth and Sports Ministry says it has cut ministerial regulations from 191 to four while reporting international sporting results during the first two years of President Prabowo Subianto’s administration. It also highlighted plans for a national youth blueprint and character-development programme ahead of the centenary of the Youth Pledge in 2028.

Bandung Allocates Rp40 Billion in Geothermal Production Bonuses to 56 Villages

Bandung Regency has allocated Rp40 billion in geothermal production bonuses for 56 villages, with 60 per cent earmarked for infrastructure and improvements to basic services. The funding will be channelled directly to village governments under a special financial assistance scheme, with a new regent’s regulation to govern its use and implementation expected to be completed by the end of December 2026.

MUI Calls for Boycott of Habib Alwi Assegaf After Sermon Goes Viral

Indonesia’s Ulema Council (MUI) has urged Muslims not to invite or attend sermons by Habib Alwi bin Abdurrahman Assegaf after a viral video showed remarks widely criticised as demeaning to women. MUI deputy chairman KH M Cholil Nafis said the comments were inconsistent with the conduct expected of a preacher and risked damaging the image of Islamic preaching and public morality.

BRI Ready to Buy Back Shares Again: Here’s Why

Bank Rakyat Indonesia says it is prepared to buy back shares, arguing that its market price does not fully reflect the bank’s fundamentals and long-term prospects. The plan comes amid significant market volatility and regulatory permission for listed companies to conduct buybacks without prior shareholder approval; investors have also pointed to low valuations and potentially attractive dividends across the banking sector.

IHSG Volatile as OJK Chief Says She Has Not Rested Since Friday

OJK chief Friderica Widyasari Dewi says capital-market reforms are continuing after the Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) plunged following an MSCI announcement threatening to downgrade Indonesia to standalone-market status. The index rebounded 5.27% on Tuesday to 5,259.76, although it remained down 40.47% year to date.

Telkom Strengthens Its Role as Strategic Holding, Sets Business Direction Through to 2030

Telkom has aligned the business portfolio strategies of its operating companies through 2030, positioning itself as a strategic holding company under its TLKM 30 transformation. Its 2026–2030 framework prioritises coordinated decision-making, collaboration across subsidiaries and disciplined investment in connectivity, data centres and network modernisation to support long-term digital growth.

Palembang Airport Reports Four Flights Affected by Haze

Four flights at Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II International Airport were affected after smoke haze reduced visibility to 450 metres on Tuesday morning, including two departures that were delayed. Visibility improved to 1,500 metres by 11.31am, while airport officials continued monitoring conditions and prioritising flight safety.

Indonesia’s Investment Reaches Rp1,539.2 Trillion by September 2026

Indonesia recorded Rp1,539.2 trillion in investment from January to September 2026, equal to 75.4% of the government’s annual target and supporting 2,194,496 jobs. Downstreaming accounted for Rp480 trillion, while investment was slightly higher outside Java, reflecting the continuing emphasis on industrial development and regional distribution.

Jakarta Composite Index Soars 5.65% to 5,278.89 as Trading Value Tops Rp25 Trillion

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) surged 5.65% to close at 5,278.89, its intraday high, with share transactions worth Rp25.1 trillion. Investors are watching market reforms by the Indonesia Stock Exchange, the government and Danantara following MSCI’s warning that Indonesia could be downgraded from Emerging Market to Standalone Market over concerns including ownership transparency and alleged coordinated trading.

Qatar: Iran-US Negotiations Continue Amid Regional Tensions

Qatar says Iran and the United States remain in communication as negotiations continue, despite worsening regional tensions and the failure of a previous ceasefire effort. Doha warns that unchecked escalation could lead to a wider regional war and urges conflicts to be de-escalated in parallel.

West Kalimantan MSMEs Generate Rp113.51 Million at ISEF 2026

Seven Bank Indonesia-supported MSMEs from West Kalimantan recorded Rp113.51 million in sales at the 13th Indonesia Sharia Economic Festival in Jakarta, with several businesses securing follow-on orders. The event also generated substantial national sales and sharia financing and trade commitments, highlighting efforts to link Islamic finance with productive economic activity.

UI Student Executive Board Takes to the Streets, Calls for Forest and Land Fires to Be Declared a National Disaster

The University of Indonesia Student Executive Board (BEM UI), joined by other student groups and civil society, staged a demonstration in Jakarta and presented five demands. These include declaring forest and land fires a national disaster, reforming economic governance, protecting civic space, combating corruption, and reducing education costs.

SMPN 294 Jakarta Pupils Turn Inorganic Waste into Handicrafts with Economic Value

Pupils and teachers at SMPN 294 Jakarta are turning sorted inorganic waste from the school into handicrafts, including colourful, patterned key rings. The initiative supports Jakarta’s waste-sorting and processing directive while promoting environmental awareness, creativity and entrepreneurial skills among pupils.

Dealer Arrested in Komodo National Park After Using Meth Since 2016

Police have arrested a 33-year-old fisherman accused of dealing methamphetamine in Komodo National Park, seizing 16 packets weighing 2.96 grams and drug-use equipment. Investigators say he smuggled supplies from Sape, West Nusa Tenggara, aboard ferry boats and are pursuing the alleged supplier in Bima.

Agriculture Ministry strengthens food self-sufficiency through modernisation

Indonesia’s Agriculture Ministry plans to distribute 86,023 units of modern agricultural machinery in 2026 to raise productivity and reinforce sustainable food self-sufficiency. The ministry says mechanisation can reduce labour and production costs, while improving the speed and efficiency of cultivation, though the equipment must be matched to farmers’ needs and local conditions.

UNM Graduate Turns Thesis Project into Successful IT Business

Universitas Nusa Mandiri graduate Samson Wahyudi developed the system he created for his thesis into an IT development business serving clients across much of Indonesia. The university presents his experience as evidence that practical coursework can lead to entrepreneurship and urges students to use academic projects as a springboard for their careers.

Fan-Style Air Conditioners Sell Fast as Glodok Traders Welcome Rush of Buyers

Extreme heat across Greater Jakarta has driven a surge in demand for fans, air coolers and air conditioners at Glodok’s electronics shops. Traders say limited AC supplies and higher prices have not deterred customers seeking more effective ways to cool homes and workplaces.

Food Security Coordinating Minister outlines four steps to improve free nutritious meals programme during Prabowo-Gibran government’s second year

Food Security Coordinating Minister Zulkifli Hasan has set out four measures to expand the Free Nutritious Meals programme, strengthen food safety and improve oversight as the Prabowo-Gibran administration enters its second year. The plans include opening more service units in remote areas, tightening kitchen standards, piloting buffet-style meals and verifying beneficiary data, alongside action against alleged irregularities.

Two Years into the Prabowo-Gibran Government, BGN Continues to Refine MBG Beneficiaries

Indonesia’s National Nutrition Agency (BGN) says it is redirecting the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme towards people most in need, including communities in remote and high-stunting areas. It has stepped up food-safety oversight, piloted buffet-style meals and reported MBG spending of Rp153.2 trillion by 30 September 2026, while the government aims to reach 72.4 million beneficiaries in 2027.

IHGMA Forecasts Hotel Occupancy to Rise on the Three Gilis in Late 2026

Hotel and villa bookings on Lombok’s three Gili islands are expected to recover towards the end of the year, after a seasonal dip in November and early December. IHGMA’s West Nusa Tenggara chair says operators are targeting 75 per cent occupancy and that major events such as MotoGP generate additional visitor stays after the races, supporting substantial local spending.

Amid Capital Market Volatility, BTN Examines Share Buyback Option

Bank Tabungan Negara (BTN) is assessing a possible share buyback, weighing market conditions against its financial position, capital adequacy and business funding needs. The state-owned lender says it remains focused on strengthening its fundamentals and expanding housing finance, while any decision will comply with disclosure and regulatory requirements.

Trump delays approval of Patriot missile transfer to Ukraine

The Trump administration has delayed approving a transfer of Patriot interceptor missiles needed by Ukraine to counter Russian missile and drone attacks. The reported hold-up raises concerns over Ukraine’s air-defence ammunition stocks, although it does not necessarily signal a wider end to US support.

BYD Denza B8 Seen Driving on Three Wheels on Public Road

A video circulating on Chinese social media appears to show a BYD Fang Cheng Bao Bao 8, marketed abroad as the Denza B8, travelling on a public road with one wheel raised and fitted with a metal locking device. The footage evokes BYD’s earlier demonstration of its DiSus-P Ultra hydraulic suspension, but the vehicle’s speed and the circumstances of the road use have not been independently verified, raising potential safety concerns.

To Ease the Burden on Bantargebang Waste Facility, Pondok Pinang Residents Sort Waste at Home

Bank Sampah Cempaka in Pondok Pinang collects more than one tonne of non-organic waste each month as residents sort rubbish at home, helping reduce the volume sent to Bantargebang. The initiative supports Jakarta’s policy that, from 1 August 2026, the facility will gradually accept only residual waste, although the bank faces a shortage of storage space.

Chery prepares to launch Yamaha-style electric moped priced at Rp5 million

Chery has received approval to manufacture an electric moped resembling Yamaha models, with comparable low-cost versions in China typically selling for about 2,000 yuan (Rp5 million). The move may give the carmaker a foothold in the two-wheeler market and help prepare production capacity for more advanced electric motorcycles, including models under its Cinnox brand.

Industry Minister Says Vietnam Exports Tankers: What About Indonesia?

Industry Minister M Sarmuji says the difficulty of sourcing large vessels points to an opportunity for Indonesia’s shipyards, even as the country still imports tankers from Vietnam. Industry data show ship and floating-structure imports exceeded exports from 2022 to June 2026, while shipbuilders are urging stronger domestic orders and incentives to expand local production.

IHSG Plunges as OJK Highlights Investment Risks for Life Insurers

The OJK and the Indonesian Insurance Council have urged insurers to tighten risk controls after market volatility linked to MSCI’s consultation on Indonesia’s market classification sent the IHSG down sharply. OJK stress tests indicate that life insurers face greater exposure because of their larger shareholdings, prompting calls for firms to test their portfolios independently and maintain sufficient liquidity to pay policyholder claims.

Indonesian stocks rebound 1.7% after three-day sell-off below 4,900

The Jakarta Composite Index rebounded 1.7% to above 5,000 after a three-day sell-off, as investors weighed new IDX transparency measures, tighter trading limits and possible share buybacks. Analysts said the reforms could help address MSCI concerns but may fuel short-term volatility, while the index’s composition will become more sensitive to major banking stocks if high-shareholding-concentration stocks are excluded.

Six Transjakarta Routes Diverted Amid Protests in Central Jakarta: Here Are the Details

Transjakarta modified six routes in Central Jakarta from 4pm on Tuesday, 20 October 2026, because of demonstrations near Monas and Jakarta City Hall. The operator advised passengers to check its app and official social media for updated travel information; the article lists three of the affected routes and their shortened services.

152 Hikers Evacuated During Mount Sumbing Fire

All 152 registered hikers on Mount Sumbing were safely evacuated as a forest and land fire continued to burn in the area. Wonosobo police said the evacuation involved a multi-agency team, while hiking routes were closed and emergency coordination measures remained in place.

UI Encourages Young People to Make Batik Part of Their Lifestyle

The Faculty of Humanities at the University of Indonesia and the Depok City Government are working to make Depok batik more than a cultural heritage, positioning it as part of young people’s identity and everyday style. Their campus event brought together academics, officials, batik artisans, small businesses and students to foster new ways of connecting local traditions with younger generations amid global and digital influences.

Home Affairs Ministry ready to facilitate local regulations on AEDs in public spaces

The Home Affairs Ministry says it is ready to help local governments draft regulations requiring Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) in public spaces, as part of efforts to improve emergency preparedness. Health Ministry data indicate that prompt defibrillation could raise survival chances after sudden cardiac arrest, while survival odds fall with every minute without assistance.

Central Java Government Intensifies Efforts to Extinguish Forest Fires on Mount Lawu and Mount Sumbing

Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi says the response to fires on Mount Lawu has been stepped up after Karanganyar regency declared an emergency, with two military helicopters to be operated by the National Disaster Management Agency. Fires have affected about 230 hectares on Mount Lawu, while 152 hikers have been evacuated from Mount Sumbing; authorities are investigating the causes and urging the public to avoid activities that could ignite fires.

Social Affairs Ministry to Provide Training for Natuna People’s School Graduates

The Social Affairs Ministry is offering vocational training to graduates of Natuna’s Integrated People’s School, alongside the option of pursuing higher education, with costs covered by the state. The school also provides free education and boarding, while graduates progressing to Garuda schools must meet an academic achievement requirement.

Gunungkidul Deputy Regent Dismisses Rumours of Rift with Regent

Gunungkidul Deputy Regent Joko Parwoto has denied claims by the local NasDem Party that his relationship with Regent Endah Subekti Kuntariningsih is strained, saying they communicate well and have no problems. NasDem’s district chair, Suharno, had cited their limited public appearances together and the deputy regent’s absence from events marking Gunungkidul’s 196th anniversary as signs of discord.

Hajj Pilgrims to Begin Arriving at Accommodation on 10 April 2027

Indonesia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has set the schedule for the 1448 Hijri/2027 Hajj, with pilgrims due to enter accommodation on 10 April and the first departures to Saudi Arabia beginning the following day. The 30-day departure and return operations are divided into two 15-day waves, while pilgrims are expected to spend an average of 38–40 days in Saudi Arabia.

Komdigi Again Promises to Cut the Burden on Telkomsel, Indosat and XLSmart

Indonesia’s Communications and Digital Affairs Ministry is reviewing telecommunications deregulation, with regulatory costs currently estimated at 13–14% of mobile operators’ revenue. The proposals include shared infrastructure, more affordable spectrum fees and public-private partnerships, alongside targets for 100 Mbps broadband and expanded 5G coverage by 2029.

BNPB and Army Chief Step Up Firefighting Efforts in Central Kalimantan

Indonesia’s disaster agency and Army chief have intensified a coordinated response to forest and land fires in Pulang Pisau, Central Kalimantan, involving government agencies, security forces and technical teams. As of 13 October, operations had covered more than 521 hectares across peatland and mineral-soil areas, with water bombing and weather modification among the measures deployed.

From Production to Irrigation: Food-Sector Achievements in Prabowo-Gibran’s Two Years

Indonesia recorded higher rice and maize production in 2025, while domestic rice procurement exceeded its 2026 target and government rice reserves stood at about 4.6 million tonnes. The administration has supported the sector through guaranteed farm-gate prices, irrigation works, land development and digital tools, while continuing to face challenges including weather risks, distribution and consumer affordability.

Iranian President Firmly Rejects Imposing Demands Through Force

President Masoud Pezeshkian told Russia’s foreign minister that Tehran would not accept other countries imposing their demands through force or pressure. The meeting also highlighted Iran’s readiness for regional dialogue and the deepening political and economic ties between Iran and Russia amid US sanctions.

Video: Kopi Kenangan Drives Indonesia’s Economy, Creates 10,000 Jobs

Kopi Kenangan says it operates more than 1,200 outlets across Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore and recorded gross revenue of Rp3.7 trillion between 1 July 2025 and 30 June 2026. The company says its expansion supports more than 10,000 jobs and local suppliers, including through Rp1.83 trillion in spending on coffee and palm sugar and annual tax payments of Rp372.1 billion.

Jakarta Information Commission: 375 Public Bodies Fail to Take Part in Information Transparency Evaluation

Jakarta’s Information Commission says 375 of 1,010 public bodies did not register or complete the self-assessment questionnaire for its 2026 public information transparency evaluation. Those bodies cannot proceed to verification, public testing and presentations, while the results will be reported to the Jakarta Governor and Regional House of Representatives to help assess implementation of transparency requirements.

Investment Realisation Reaches Rp1,539 Trillion by Q3, Meeting 75% of 2026 Target

Indonesia recorded Rp1,539.2 trillion in investment from January to September 2026, up 7.3% year on year and equivalent to 75.4% of its annual target. Foreign investment slightly exceeded domestic investment, while downstream processing accounted for Rp480 trillion and investment activity supported nearly 2.2 million jobs.

NTU Singapore Partners to Develop AI- and 6G-Based Positioning Technology

Nanyang Technological University (NTU) Singapore is partnering with Ericsson and Sweden’s KTH Royal Institute of Technology to develop AI- and 6G-based positioning technology. The initiative, due to begin in November 2026, aims to improve the accuracy and reliability of tracking robots, drones and other autonomous systems in challenging indoor and outdoor environments, with potential uses across sectors including healthcare, logistics and emergency response.

Protest Near Monas Leads to Shortened and Diverted Routes for Six TransJakarta Services

TransJakarta has shortened or diverted six routes following a public demonstration near the National Monument (Monas) and Jakarta City Hall. Some stops are temporarily not being served, and the operator says services will be adjusted according to traffic conditions.

Attorney General’s Asset Recovery Agency Distributes Rp229.4bn in First Compensation Payment to Indosurya Victims

The Attorney General’s Asset Recovery Agency has distributed Rp229.4 billion from auctioned assets belonging to convicted Indosurya Savings and Loans Cooperative fraudster Henry Surya, as the first compensation payment to victims. The 3,317 verified claimants are to receive payments proportionate to their losses, which total Rp8.06 trillion; prosecutors say they are continuing to trace and auction assets for further distributions.

Four Seaplanes Set to Land at Batujai Dam for NTB Anniversary

West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) is aiming for four seaplanes operated by Aman Air to make their first landing at Batujai Dam on 17 December 2026, as an anniversary milestone. Operational preparations continue, but approvals from the transport and public works ministries—including permits to use the water area—are still being processed; the proposed route also includes Sire Beach.

Mount Sumbing Wildfire Prompts Full Closure of Hiking Routes

A forest and land fire has broken out on Mount Sumbing in Wonosobo, prompting authorities to close all hiking routes while they monitor the risk of the blaze spreading into Temanggung. Dry vegetation and strong winds are heightening the threat, and joint teams and volunteers are working to contain the fire and protect surrounding areas.

Former Trade Minister Alleges Foreign Pressure on MSCI; OJK Chief Responds

OJK chief Friderica Widyasari Dewi says the regulator will focus on continuing capital-market reforms after former Trade Minister Muhammad Lutfi alleged that foreign institutions were pressuring MSCI to downgrade Indonesia’s market classification. Lutfi’s claims, including alleged involvement by Singapore-based investors, remain unverified; MSCI’s decision will depend on its methodology and assessment of market accessibility and investability.

Foreign Minister Monitors Indonesians’ Safety in France and Other European Countries After Riots

Foreign Minister Arrmanatha Nasir says the government is monitoring Indonesians in France and other European countries following protests over rising living costs that escalated into unrest. Indonesia’s embassy in Paris says no Indonesians have been involved and has urged citizens to avoid crowds, follow local authorities’ updates and adjust travel plans as needed.

Prosecutors Receive Investigation Notice in Grand Polonia Medan House Explosion Case

Medan prosecutors have received a formal notice that police have opened an investigation into the deadly explosion at a luxury home in the Grand Polonia housing complex, with one suspect, Iqbal, named. The case file remains incomplete; the blast, suspected to have been caused by a gas leak, killed three people and injured four others.

Foundations Give Way, Two Homes on Klungkung Riverbank Collapse

Two homes in Klungkung, Bali, collapsed after their riverbank foundations gave way, causing an estimated Rp95 million in damage; both properties were unoccupied at the time. The owners have sought explanations from the housing developer and the Bali-Penida River Basin Authority, while officials say the precise cause remains under technical investigation and any rebuilding support will depend on compliance with river setback rules.

Hermanto Tanoko’s Son Buys Rp2.2 Billion Worth of Avia Shares

Robert Christian Tanoko, a director of paint maker PT Avia Avian, bought 6.9 million ordinary shares in the company in four transactions on 16 October 2026, for a total of about Rp2.22 billion. The purchase raised his stake from 2.3093% to 2.3205%.

Not Just Eggs and Fish: Snails Now Considered for Stunting Prevention

The Ministry of Villages and Development of Disadvantaged Regions is exploring locally available animal-protein sources to address malnutrition and stunting in underserved areas. In West Sumba, children have responded positively to snail dishes, despite snails not being part of the local traditional diet.

Danantara attracts strong interest in waste-to-energy financing, naming 34 prospective lenders

Danantara Investment Management and its subsidiary Denera have identified 34 domestic and international financial institutions as prospective lenders for Indonesia’s waste-to-energy programme, with indicative financing interest exceeding three times estimated debt needs. The panel is an early-stage step to assess funding options; any financing remains subject to project due diligence and each lender’s credit approval.

Trump Uses French Riots as Midterm Election Campaign Material in the US

Donald Trump cited violent protests in France during a Kansas rally for Republican Senator Roger Marshall, warning that similar unrest could occur in the United States if Republicans lose the midterm elections. His comments come as Republicans face voter dissatisfaction over the Iran war and rising prices while fighting to retain control of Congress.

Washington delays delivery of Patriot missiles to Ukraine

The US has yet to approve the transfer of Patriot interceptor missiles to Ukraine, despite reports that some could be diverted from countries friendly to Kyiv. The delay comes amid growing tensions between Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky, as Ukraine warns its stock of interceptors has dwindled to just a few.

Five Transjakarta Routes Skip City Hall Stop Amid Protest

Five Transjakarta routes will not stop at the City Hall bus stop, while two routes will also bypass Monas stops, due to a public demonstration near Monas and Jakarta City Hall. The operator said other routes remain in normal service, with operations subject to further adjustment depending on traffic conditions.

ORI: Strengthening Agrarian Oversight Requires Preventing Maladministration

The Ombudsman of the Republic of Indonesia says oversight of agrarian services should focus on preventing maladministration, not merely investigating complaints. Although land offices in Banten received a ‘Good’ rating in the 2025 assessment, the Ombudsman logged 62 agrarian complaints in the province from January to September 2026, underscoring persistent concerns over service speed, transparency, land disputes and illegal charges.

Two Years of Prabowo-Gibran: Golkar Says Government Is on the Right Track

Golkar Secretary-General Muhammad Sarmuji says the Prabowo-Gibran administration has shifted development towards a people-centred approach, citing programmes such as free nutritious meals, free health checks and Sekolah Rakyat. He acknowledges that the change may unsettle some, but says Indonesia’s growth data and the time needed for policies to take effect support Golkar’s view that the government is moving in the right direction.

Bank BSN offers home loans with a 1% deposit and terms of up to 40 years

Bank Syariah Nasional is offering subsidised home financing with a deposit from 1% and repayment terms of up to 40 years, aiming to help young workers buy their first home. Its mortgage portfolio stood at Rp58.9 trillion at the end of September 2026, including a 24.8% share of national FLPP subsidised mortgage disbursements.

Fadli aims to enjoy himself after preserving Asian Para Games gold tradition

Indonesian para-cyclist Muhammad Fadli Imammuddin won gold in the men’s C4 individual pursuit at the 2026 Asian Para Games, extending his record of winning gold at three consecutive editions. He said he hopes to train and compete without pressure, crediting confidence and composure for his victory over Iran’s Behrooz Farzad.

Video: Insurance Literacy Drive Spurs Insurers to Create Products Relevant to Customers

Indonesia’s insurance industry is marking Insurance Day on 18 October 2026 with a campaign to improve public understanding and expand insurance inclusion. Sinar Mas Insurance director Dumasi Samosir says stronger literacy and products tailored to evolving needs could help deepen penetration, particularly among retail customers.

Gold Treasure Found on Hajj Route, Believed to Have Belonged to a Pilgrim

Archaeologists in Saudi Arabia have uncovered a cache of more than 100 pieces of jewellery, including gold, silver and gemstones, at Dhariyah, a historic stop on the Hajj route from Basra to Mecca. The treasure is thought to have been buried during the early Abbasid period, but researchers have yet to establish who owned it or why it was hidden.

KPK Announces Two New Suspects in Rejang Lebong Case

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has named PT Cahaya Mas Cemerlang president director Eko Yusanto and former PAN Rejang Lebong deputy chair B. Daditama as new suspects in its expanding bribery investigation. Investigators are questioning Yusanto over procurement and alleged payments to the Rejang Lebong regent or his affiliates; Daditama’s questioning was postponed because he had no legal counsel present.

Prabowo Receives Foreign Minister’s Report on UN Secretary-General’s Activities in Jakarta

President Prabowo Subianto received a briefing from Foreign Minister Arrmanatha Christiawan Nasir on UN Secretary-General António Guterres’s recent visit to Indonesia. Guterres thanked Indonesia for its support, discussed multilateral reform and other global issues with Prabowo, and visited Indonesian peacekeepers ahead of the end of his term in December 2026.

Partner or Ally? What Vance’s Statement Means for Ukraine’s Future

US Vice-President JD Vance has said Ukraine is a partner, not a formal ally, and criticised Kyiv’s attacks on Russian diesel-production facilities, arguing they raise energy costs for Americans. His remarks come amid pressure from Donald Trump’s administration over Ukrainian strikes and uncertainty about continued US support, as Washington pursues a diesel supply deal with Moscow and the two sides dispute whether an energy truce was agreed.

UN World Food Programme Cuts Aid for 500,000 Gaza Residents

The UN World Food Programme will reduce its monthly assistance in Gaza, cutting its beneficiary list by 500,000 amid a severe funding shortfall. The cuts include smaller food rations, reduced cash support and fewer prepared meals, as the agency warns that millions face acute food insecurity and calls for US$450 million to sustain operations.

Some Mataram Primary Pupils in Years 4 and 5 Still Unable to Read, Promotion System Under Scrutiny

Mataram’s education department has found that some pupils in Years 4 and 5 have not mastered basic reading, while ten schools have low literacy and numeracy ratings. The city is calling for targeted support and backing stricter promotion criteria, as the national education ministry develops a policy to strengthen decisions on whether pupils advance a year, with preparations targeted for completion in 2027.

RI Ambassador Urges PT PAL to Expand Maritime Industry Market in the Middle East

Indonesia’s ambassador to the UAE has urged state-owned shipbuilder PT PAL to pursue broader opportunities in the Middle East, citing stronger bilateral economic ties. Trade between Indonesia and the UAE rose 26 per cent in the two years after the IUAE-CEPA took effect, while UAE investment in Indonesia increased nearly 641 per cent.

Residents Initially Mistook Fatal Mampang Crash for a Brawl

Residents in Mampang Prapatan said they initially thought a fatal late-night crash involving three teenagers was a brawl after hearing a loud impact and breaking glass. A 14-year-old student died after being taken to hospital, while two others were injured; witnesses said the incident was the first of its kind in the neighbourhood.

MSCI Drama Is Not Over: A Major Announcement for Indonesians Is Due Tomorrow

Bank Indonesia is widely expected to raise its benchmark rate by 25 basis points to 6% at its 21 October policy meeting, as the rupiah weakens beyond Rp18,000 per US dollar and inflation edges towards the top of its target range. The decision comes amid market volatility triggered by MSCI’s proposal to reclassify Indonesia’s equity market, with analysts warning that higher rates may support the rupiah but cannot resolve concerns about market governance and could weigh on domestic borrowing, consumption and investment.

Video: National Insurance Day: A Moment to Transform the Insurance Industry

Indonesia’s National Insurance Day on 18 October highlights the sector’s role in providing protection and managing assets worth thousands of trillions of rupiah. The industry is also approaching a new phase with a planned policy guarantee scheme, while the Financial Services Authority (OJK) is considering allowing foreign ownership of insurance companies of up to 99%.

Former Army Chief of Staff Subagyo HS Was Hospitalised and Underwent Dialysis Before His Death

Former Indonesian Army Chief of Staff Subagyo Hadi Siswoyo, known as Subagyo HS, was treated at Panti Rapih Hospital in Yogyakarta and underwent dialysis before his death on Monday. Senior military officials remembered him as a leader who fostered unity in the Army; his career included leading Kopassus and serving as Army chief during the presidencies of Soeharto, B.J. Habibie and Abdurrahman Wahid.

Students Learn to Make Yogyakarta’s Traditional Wayang Suket from Straw

Students visiting Grogol Tourism Village in Sleman were taught to make and perform wayang suket, traditional puppets crafted from straw. The cultural education programme, introduced in 2012, promotes local crafts while helping participants develop practical skills, creativity and patience.

Appeal Rejected: Riza Chalid’s Son Remains Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison

Indonesia’s Supreme Court has rejected appeals by both prosecutors and Muhammad Kerry Adrianto Riza in a corruption case involving Pertamina’s crude oil and refinery product management from 2018 to 2023. Kerry’s 15-year prison sentence is upheld, although the court amended the order to pay compensation; the amount is not yet available, and the ruling is final.

Tanjungpinang Customs Offers Temporary Import Facilities for Bintan Triathlon 2026

Tanjungpinang Customs is providing temporary-import facilities for goods brought in by participants in the Bintan Triathlon, scheduled for 2–4 October 2026 in Bintan, Riau Islands. The arrangement streamlines inspections and may exempt qualifying goods from import duty and import taxes, while officials expect the event and its UMKM bazaar to promote local products and support the regional economy.

Absent from Work for 129 Days, Cibinong District Court Judge Dismissed by Supreme Court

The Judicial Honour Council has dismissed a Cibinong District Court judge, identified as INS, after finding that he was absent without valid reason for 129 days. The sanction, imposed in his absence, follows several earlier disciplinary penalties and is unrelated to case handling, bribery or abuse of office.

Government Has Yet to Decide on Changes to the Tax-Free Income Threshold

Coordinating Economic Affairs Minister Airlangga Hartarto says discussions on adjusting the tax-free income threshold (PTKP) are ongoing and no decision has been finalised. The issue is being considered alongside a planned expansion of Article 21 income tax incentives for workers earning under Rp10 million a month in 2027, but the proposed increase and implementation date remain unknown.

Property investment opportunities in Indonesia expand beyond Jakarta

JLL says property investment opportunities are increasingly emerging outside Jakarta, supported by infrastructure development, industrial diversification, government policy and rising demand for digital infrastructure. Its report highlights manufacturing, data centres and the refurbishment or repurposing of older buildings as key opportunities, while stressing that investors must choose locations and assets selectively.

Prabowo Summons Economic Ministers, BI Governor and National Economic Council to Palace This Afternoon

President Prabowo Subianto summoned senior economic officials to the State Palace for a meeting on Tuesday afternoon, including Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto, Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara and Bank Indonesia Governor Destry Damayanti. Officials gave few details, but Airlangga noted that the Jakarta Composite Index had risen that day and confirmed the National Economic Council was involved.

Airlangga Says Government Never Discussed Free Mobile Phone Distribution

Coordinating Economic Affairs Minister Airlangga Hartarto said the government had never discussed distributing free mobile phones to support social assistance delivery, despite the idea being raised publicly by presidential special envoy Hashim Djojohadikusumo. A separate mass bank-account opening programme will proceed in the fourth quarter once regulations are issued, backed by a planned budget of around Rp3.8 trillion and intended to strengthen financial inclusion.

LPS warns students against being tempted by online loans and buy now, pay later services

Indonesia’s Deposit Insurance Corporation (LPS) has warned university students that online loans and buy now, pay later services can lead to financial difficulties when repayments exceed their means. An LPS executive said rapid growth in access to digital financial services has not been matched by sufficient understanding of their risks, and called for stronger financial literacy among young people.

Indonesia steps up trade deals to unlock billions in export opportunities

Indonesia is accelerating three trade agreements with the EU, Canada and the Eurasian Economic Union, with projected export gains of up to $10.9 billion from the EU pact, $1.6 billion from the Canadian deal and $2.89 billion from the EAEU agreement. The government is also urging exporters to use preferential market access and is targeting the EU agreement’s entry into force in early 2027, alongside wider cooperation in strategic sectors such as semiconductors and technology.

Protest at Tugu Tani Today: Why Are Students Taking Off Their University Jackets?

Hundreds of University of Indonesia students and other groups demonstrated at Tugu Tani in Central Jakarta, choosing not to wear university jackets so they could stand alongside other members of civil society. The protest coincided with the second anniversary of President Prabowo Subianto and Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s administration, and proceeded peacefully under police supervision.

Australian Ambassador Impressed by Banyuwangi’s Culture and Tourist Attractions

Australia’s ambassador to Indonesia, Rod Brazier, praised Banyuwangi’s lively cultural traditions and tourism destinations, and said he hopes to see the blue fire at Ijen Crater. His visit came during the Keris Woomera 2026 joint exercise, which he said would strengthen military cooperation and bilateral ties between Indonesia and Australia.

Major Buying Spree in State-Owned Company Shares

Shares in 20 Indonesian state-owned companies and their subsidiaries all rose on Tuesday, led by Pertamina Geothermal Energy and Telkom, as the Jakarta Composite Index rebounded sharply. Danantara’s stated readiness to increase its holdings in fundamentally strong state firms helped bolster sentiment, although uncertainty remains over a possible MSCI reclassification of Indonesia’s equity market.

Choosing a Computing Degree? Explore Your Options to Seize Opportunities in Cikampek and Karawang’s Industrial Sector

Industrial growth in Cikampek and Karawang is creating demand for a range of information technology skills, from software development and data analysis to business systems and cybersecurity. Prospective students are advised to match their interests and career plans with the focus of each degree, while building adaptable, cross-disciplinary skills for a changing workplace.

Death toll from collapsed gold mine in Colombia rises to 14

Fourteen people have been confirmed dead and seven injured after an open-pit gold mine collapsed in south-western Colombia; four of the injured are in serious condition. Rescue operations have ended, while officials and the UN human rights office have called for assistance to affected families and action against illegal mining activities.

OJK Urges Insurers to Stress-Test Investments Amid IHSG Turmoil

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has urged insurance companies to conduct stress tests as the Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) fluctuates and MSCI plans to reclassify Indonesia’s stock market. The tests should assess asset quality, capital adequacy and insurers’ ability to meet policyholder obligations, particularly at life insurers with substantial exposure to shares and bonds.

Property investment opportunities in Indonesia expand beyond Jakarta

Investment opportunities in Indonesia’s property sector are increasingly extending beyond Jakarta, supported by infrastructure development, manufacturing diversification and demand for digital infrastructure. JLL identifies Central Java, data centres and the repurposing of ageing buildings as key areas of opportunity, while stressing that investors must be selective about locations and asset strategies.

BTN weighs share buyback option amid domestic capital market volatility

Bank Tabungan Negara (BTN) is assessing a possible share buyback, weighing market conditions, its strategic needs, financial position and regulatory requirements. The state-owned lender says its priority remains strengthening its business fundamentals and pursuing growth in housing finance, including through the government’s Three Million Homes Programme and its shift towards a broader “beyond mortgage” business model.

IAKMI: Tackling Forest and Land Fires Can Advance Indonesia’s Health Programmes

The Indonesian Public Health Association (IAKMI) says effective responses to forest and land fires would help protect resources needed to deliver President Prabowo Subianto’s health programmes. Its elected chair, Hermawan Saputra, warned that smoke-related illness can disrupt nutrition, tuberculosis control and free health checks, while highlighting gaps in budgets, service distribution and emergency capacity. The government reports progress in preventive care, hospital construction and national health insurance coverage, alongside an additional Rp20 trillion for BPJS Kesehatan in the 2026 state budget.

Amartha Financing Helps Rural Women Grow Food Businesses

Amartha says access to financing, business mentoring and markets is helping rural women expand agricultural and food-related businesses, with nearly 30 per cent of its partners working in agriculture and livestock in 2025. The company also highlights support for job creation and a post-flood food security recovery programme in Agam, West Sumatra.

Indonesia and Malaysia discuss strengthening child protection in the digital space

Indonesia and Malaysia have discussed regulatory approaches and mechanisms to make the digital environment safer for children, including Malaysia’s Online Safety Act and potential age-verification measures. Indonesia’s communications minister highlighted that digital connectivity must be matched by responsible safeguards, while Malaysia’s Fahmi praised Indonesia’s PP TUNAS regulation and cooperation with major technology firms.

Government explores partnership to develop digital infrastructure

The central government and Jakarta provincial administration are exploring ways to coordinate digital infrastructure development, including telecommunications routes, fibre-optic expansion and better internet access. The Communications and Digital Affairs Ministry says it is ready to help accelerate fixed-broadband coverage, particularly in areas on the outskirts of the capital, as Jakarta seeks to strengthen its global-city competitiveness.

Referendum Bid Fails as Province Abandons Independence Push

Alberta voters have decisively backed remaining part of Canada, dealing an early blow to separatists seeking a legally binding referendum on independence. The vote took place amid tensions over oil policy and allegations of support for the movement from allies of US President Donald Trump, while Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has sought to ease provincial-federal tensions.

PLN EPI: Republika ESG Award Strengthens Company’s Motivation

PLN Energi Primer Indonesia (PLN EPI) says its ESG NOW Award 2026 recognition will encourage it to expand sustainability initiatives, including biomass, biogas and bio-CNG supplies for PLN power plants. Its award-winning community-based biomass programme in Gunungkidul links green energy production with farming and livestock activities, providing environmental and economic benefits to local residents.

Gianyar Police Chief Holds Community Forum to Hear Residents’ Concerns

Gianyar Police held a community forum under the National Police Chief’s Quick Wins programme to hear residents’ views and complaints about public safety and order. Police Chief AKBP James Rajagukguk said the initiative would strengthen police-public communication and support more responsive, community-oriented services.

Nusa Mandiri University and Bakrie University Forge Education Partnership

Nusa Mandiri University (UNM) and Bakrie University have signed a five-year memorandum of understanding to collaborate on higher education, with a particular focus on informatics and computer science. The partnership will support joint teaching, research, training and community service, with programmes to be developed through more specific agreements and reviewed regularly.

Indonesia tightens oversight to prevent recruitment for Russia’s conflict

Indonesia’s Directorate General of Immigration is stepping up efforts to prevent human trafficking and the recruitment of Indonesians as foreign combatants in Russia, focusing on intervention before people leave the country. Its measures include village outreach and economic support, cyber patrols to block illegal job advertisements, and cooperation with Interpol to pursue overseas masterminds; those recruited are regarded as victims, while recruiters face legal action.

Creative Economy Ministry Helps Batam Entrepreneurs Explore Sales Strategies

The Creative Economy Ministry has supported 55 creative economy businesses in Batam with guidance on visual identity, packaging and digital marketing. The initiative aims to improve the competitiveness of local products and help businesses expand from local markets to national and global audiences.

Former Army Chief of Staff Subagyo HS Dies in Yogyakarta, to Be Buried at Kalibata Heroes Cemetery Today

Retired General Subagyo Hadi Siswoyo, a former Indonesian Army chief of staff and Kopassus commander, died at a hospital in Yogyakarta on Monday, aged not specified. He is due to be buried at Kalibata Heroes Cemetery in South Jakarta, and his career spanned the presidencies of Soeharto, B.J. Habibie and Abdurrahman Wahid during Indonesia’s transition around the 1998 Reformasi.

Pertamina promotes circular economy through agricultural waste in Tuban

Pertamina Patra Niaga’s Kang Ebit: SIMPEL programme in Tuban turns agricultural waste into briquettes and other useful products, generating annual briquette revenue of Rp720 million while reducing greenhouse-gas emissions. The initiative has also improved irrigation and raised harvest frequency and monthly income for 25 farmers, linking rural livelihoods with environmental gains.

Bulog and House Commission Launch Three-Month Food Aid Distribution

Bulog and House of Representatives Commission IV have launched the third phase of rice food aid, covering October to December 2026, across four districts in Yogyakarta Special Region. The programme will reach 522,956 recipients across the province, with 15.69 million kilograms of rice allocated, as officials pledge to ensure timely distribution and adequate quality.

Rp245.13bn Repo Transaction in Bakrie-Linked ENRG Shares

Trimegah Sekuritas bought 265 million shares in Energi Mega Persada for Rp245.13 billion in a transaction described as a reverse repo, raising its voting stake from 10.72% to 11.55%. ENRG shares rose 2.96% to Rp870 in afternoon trading, giving the company a market capitalisation of Rp34.47 trillion.

On Santri Day, Central Java Deputy Governor Promotes Cleanliness Campaign at Islamic Boarding Schools

Central Java Deputy Governor Taj Yasin Maimoen is promoting a cleanliness drive at Islamic boarding schools ahead of the 2026 National Santri Day commemoration, which will be centred on a school in Pemalang. The campaign encourages students to sort and manage waste, with events also including assistance for schools and residents and health services.

JCI Surges 5.6% at Market Close

Indonesia’s Composite Stock Price Index (JCI) rose 5.65% to 5,278.89, closing at its highest level of the day amid heavy trading. Investors are weighing Indonesia Stock Exchange reforms and Danantara’s potential purchases of state-owned shares as MSCI reviews the market’s classification, following sharp recent declines.

Wildfire Sweeps Through Mount Sumbing, 152 Hikers Evacuated

A wildfire on Mount Sumbing in Central Java had spread across about 140 hectares by 20 October, with 53 hotspots detected. All 152 hikers were evacuated, while 300 joint personnel were deployed to tackle the blaze; its cause remains unknown, amid dry vegetation linked to El Niño.

SGM Supports the ‘Bunda Lebih Maju’ Campaign in Indonesia

SGM Eksplor has launched its ‘Bunda Lebih Maju’ campaign, celebrating mothers’ growing roles in supporting their children’s development and choices. The initiative includes a KRL activation with musician Yura Yunita and a press event featuring health, brand and youth-sport representatives, while the company highlights its nutrition research and long-standing presence in Indonesia.

Hajj Spending Nationwide to Reach Rp4 Trillion in 2026, with South Sulawesi Contributing a Quarter

Hajj Minister Mochamad Irfan Yusuf says national spending by Indonesian pilgrims is expected to reach Rp4 trillion in 2026, with South Sulawesi accounting for about 25 per cent. He urged local small and medium-sized enterprises to join the hajj and umrah supply chain, while noting that government subsidies are helping make the pilgrimage more affordable.

Corruption Again: What Has Bureaucratic Reform Achieved?

Repeated corruption cases involving public funds, including alleged misuse of disaster-management procurement at the National Disaster Management Agency, raise questions about the effectiveness of Indonesia’s bureaucratic reform agenda. The author argues that reform has focused too heavily on procedures and performance indicators, and calls for stronger safeguards, independent oversight and consistent law enforcement to protect public trust.

Responding to Greenpeace Action, Eddy Soeparno Says President Prabowo Is Accelerating Clean Energy

MPR Deputy Speaker Eddy Soeparno says the Prabowo administration is fast-tracking clean-energy programmes and climate action, including a proposed 100 GW solar power project and expanded development of geothermal, wind, nuclear and hydrogen energy. He also highlighted plans for a climate-change control bill, saying the government and legislature must work together to cut emissions and address the effects of the climate crisis.

Crowds Stage Protests at Tugu Tani and Near IRTI Monas This Afternoon

Student groups and a community alliance staged demonstrations at two locations in Central Jakarta, calling for serious action on forest and land fires and an evaluation of President Prabowo’s administration. Police guarded the areas; Medan Merdeka Selatan was closed near IRTI Monas, while traffic around Tugu Tani remained normal.

Many Indonesians Joining the Russian Military? Immigration Director-General Responds

Indonesia’s Immigration Director-General Hendarsam Marantoko says the government is working to prevent Indonesians from being recruited into the Russian military, including through community outreach, cyber patrols and action against recruiter networks. He says some Indonesians may have been deceived with job offers and then found it difficult to return home, and notes that the issue is part of broader suspected human trafficking practices.

Bali’s Kura-Kura SEZ develops plant nursery for sustainable tourism

The Kura-Kura Special Economic Zone in Bali is cultivating 83 plant species, with nearly 26,000 plants at different growth stages, and has established a facility that turns fallen leaves into compost. The initiative supports landscaping and sustainable tourism, while the SEZ’s planted area has expanded to 737,441 trees and shrubs from 177,000 in 2023.

Carbon value can fund restoration and benefit communities: Indonesian Government

Indonesia’s Environment Ministry says carbon value generated through restoration could provide financing for environmental recovery while delivering fair benefits to local communities. At a workshop for leaders in Bali and Nusa Tenggara, officials highlighted the need to integrate carbon governance into regional planning and align it with national emissions targets.

detikJateng-Jogja Awards 2026 to Be Held This Week: Dates to Note

The detikJateng-Jogja Awards 2026 will take place on 23 October at the Nusantara Ballroom in the Batang Industrial Estate Special Economic Zone, alongside a forum on Central Java’s investment potential. The event will bring together government, investors and industrial estate stakeholders as the province seeks to build on Rp88.50 trillion in realised investment in 2025, up 28% year on year and generating around 326,000 jobs.

BPJPH urges halal inspection bodies to strengthen service capacity

Indonesia’s Halal Product Assurance Agency (BPJPH) is urging halal inspection bodies (LPHs) to raise productivity and expand their inspection capacity while maintaining quality and integrity. The agency says stronger services can improve consumer protection, help businesses meet halal standards and boost the competitiveness and market access of Indonesian products.

Gondang drumming fosters harmony between ethnic groups in South-east Aceh

The taganing drums of Batak Toba Gondang music have become more than an accompaniment to customary ceremonies in South-east Aceh: they are a shared cultural symbol that helps bring together the region’s diverse communities. The article traces the community’s settlement in the area and describes the drums’ musical and sacred roles.

Instagram Accounts for Anti-President Protests Blocked; Meta Apologises

Meta apologised after Instagram accounts associated with the No Kings protests across the United States were temporarily blocked, saying automated safeguards mistakenly identified a surge in activity as bot traffic. Protest organisers said the disruption extended to other content and called for answers, accountability and concrete safeguards.

Social Ministry: Rehabilitation and Economic Self-Reliance Among Poor Communities Improve

The Social Affairs Ministry says it has expanded social rehabilitation and economic empowerment, reporting increased numbers of disabled people receiving services and beneficiaries developing independent businesses. It also cites a new national social and economic data system to improve assistance targeting, alongside disaster relief and free boarding-school programmes for children from poor families.

Malaysian National Seeks Ethics Hearing for Commissioner in Alleged Rp58.5bn Gold Investment Fraud

A Malaysian investor is urging the police to hold an ethics hearing for Commissioner Fahrurozi, who has been placed in a special detention unit over an alleged Rp58.5 billion gold-mining investment fraud. The complainant’s lawyer says the case is still being compiled, while police have also examined Fahrurozi and inspected the promised mine site in North Sulawesi; the criminal investigation’s status remains unclear.

BYAN Share Acquisition Unrelated to Plans to Change Indonesia’s Market Status

Infra Bestari executive director Gede Sandra said Haji Isam’s acquisition of a 30.25% stake in Bayan Resources was a business decision unrelated to MSCI’s plans to reclassify Indonesia’s equity market. Former trade minister Muhammad Lutfi separately suggested that foreign interests could be behind pressure on Indonesian shares, but the article makes clear these allegations are his views, not evidence of influence over MSCI.

KPK Names Two New Suspects in Rejang Lebong Bribery Probe

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has named two additional suspects in an expanding bribery investigation involving public works projects in Rejang Lebong and Bengkulu. Investigators are examining alleged payments to the regent, with the underlying case involving suspected bribes totalling Rp1.7 billion and projects worth Rp91.13 billion.

Riau Police Public Relations Division Holds Blood Donation Drive to Mark 75th Anniversary of Polri Public Relations

The Riau Regional Police Public Relations Division held a blood donation drive to mark the 75th anniversary of Polri Public Relations, describing it as an act of service and solidarity with the community. The event also underscored the division’s role in strengthening public trust through transparent, accurate and informative communication.