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Found 593,844 articles

Korean Peninsula Tensions Rise as North Korea Puts Troops on Firing Positions

North Korea says it has moved new military units into firing positions along its border with South Korea, amid a sharp escalation following a landmine blast that injured South Korean soldiers. Both sides have issued warnings and reinforced their military posture, raising fears of further confrontation along the heavily militarised border.

Central Java Investment Reaches Rp72.54 Trillion as 57 Vietnamese Companies Eye Business Opportunities

Central Java recorded Rp72.54 trillion in investment through the third quarter of 2026, equal to 73.21% of its annual target, and reported that 57 labour-intensive Vietnamese companies may establish operations in the province. Governor Ahmad Luthfi and Semarang Mayor Agustina Wilujeng Pramestuti said investment should be spread across the region, create jobs and support local businesses, while Semarang strengthens its role in trade and services.

Bogor Regency to Test Food Samples After 103 Pupils Suspected of Being Poisoned by Free Nutritious Meals

Bogor Regency will test food and drink samples after 103 pupils at a state junior high school in Cisarua fell ill after eating meals provided under the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. The results will help determine the cause, while the local government is covering medical costs and considering whether to suspend classes as it prioritises pupils’ recovery.

Prabowo Says Indonesia Is Not Afraid of Potential MSCI Downgrade for Stock Exchange

President Prabowo Subianto has dismissed MSCI’s warning that Indonesia’s stock market could be downgraded from emerging-market to standalone status, describing it as an attempt to intimidate capital-market investors. His remarks followed a sharp fall in the Jakarta Composite Index, which dropped below 5,000, and he insisted Indonesia would not be deterred.

Official: Malaysian Civil Servants Banned from Using Waze Amid Suspected Israel Links

Malaysia has barred civil servants and relevant government agencies from using Waze, citing concerns about users’ personal information and location data. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has recommended the locally developed TuJu app as an alternative, while the government says further questions should be directed to the National Cyber Security Agency.

The Path to Paradise Set Out by the Prophet for a Righteous Wife

The article cites hadiths stating that a woman who fulfils key religious duties, preserves her chastity and obeys her husband in what is right may enter Paradise, and that a woman whose husband is pleased with her at her death will enter Paradise. It frames these teachings in terms of the husband’s responsibility to provide for his family, including food, clothing and medical expenses.

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Urges Regional Leaders to Listen to Young People’s Aspirations

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya Sugiarto has urged governors, mayors and regents to involve young people in regional development planning and remain open to their ideas. He warned against treating young people merely as a source of votes and called for universities to be included in discussions about local development.

Indonesia’s Chef de Mission Hopes Zaidar Can Compete at the 2026 Youth Olympic Games

Indonesia’s Chef de Mission, Ita Yuliati, says skateboarder Zaidar Maulana Ibrahim has the confidence and mental readiness to compete at the 2026 Youth Olympic Games in Dakar after qualifying for the event. She is coordinating preparations, including travel timing, to ensure the schedule does not undermine athletes’ morale; Indonesia plans to send 12 athletes across 12 sports.

Prabowo Cites Protests in France, Emphasises the Need to Preserve National Unity

President Prabowo Subianto said Indonesia must safeguard national unity while allowing debate, criticism and competition. Citing large demonstrations in France and elsewhere in Europe, he defended his decision to form a broad coalition, saying it would unite forces to improve people’s lives.

RSUI pledges to strengthen control of lead exposure in Indonesia

Universitas Indonesia Hospital (RSUI), backed by Pure Earth Indonesia, has brought together seven health professional organisations to strengthen early detection, prevention and control of lead exposure. The initiative highlights the risks posed by informal or poorly managed used-battery recycling, which can expose workers and their families, including children and pregnant women, and calls for stronger policy, technical standards and professional capacity.

Prabowo Orders Revocation of All Permits Held by Companies Involved in Forest and Land Fires

President Prabowo Subianto has ordered officials to revoke the permits of companies found to have violated regulations and contributed to forest and land fires. He called for a thorough investigation by the police, prosecutors and Forestry Ministry, assisted by the military, describing deliberate burning as a serious threat to public health and the environment.

Law Minister: Deregulation and Digitalisation of Law Under Prabowo

Law Minister Supratman Andi Agtas says the ministry has cut the number of ministerial regulations from 153 to 35 as part of efforts to remove overlapping rules and make doing business easier. It has also digitised and integrated 470 public services, including an automatic tax-number service for applicants establishing legal entities, while expanding access to justice.

Prabowo Issues Stern Warning to Countries That Insult Indonesia

President Prabowo Subianto has ordered an investigation into companies suspected of responsibility for forest fires, saying the blazes were not solely caused by natural factors and had endangered millions of Indonesians. He warned that companies found to have violated the law could lose their permits, and said Indonesia would respond to countries that continued to insult it.

Dedi Mulyadi Teams Up with Engineers to Tackle Congestion and Flooding in West Java

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has asked the Indonesian Engineers Association to help address traffic congestion and flooding through better spatial and transport planning. A proposed pilot project would provide drivers with new, environmentally friendly public-transport vehicles that they own, while the association says its regional conference will focus on technology and sustainable development.

Tokyo and Osaka record latest-ever 30°C temperatures

Tokyo and Osaka recorded temperatures above 30°C on 21 October, the latest such readings in either city since their weather records began. The unusually warm conditions, linked to humid southern air, come amid Japan’s hottest summer on record in 2025 and wider climate change-driven increases in extreme heat.

Why Has Criminal Investigation Agency Yet to Name Suspects in Fake Fortified Rice Case?

Indonesia’s Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim) says it has at least two pieces of evidence in a case involving fortified rice allegedly sold with nutrition claims that do not match its contents, but has not yet named suspects. Investigators are examining 11 businesses cited by the National Food Agency, while five brands made by PT DTA are currently the focus of the investigation; the company’s production during April–August 2026 was estimated to be worth nearly Rp70 billion.

Prabowo Raises Smuggling: ‘We Must Save Our Wealth’

President Prabowo Subianto said Indonesia’s natural wealth must be protected from smuggling and other practices he described as fraudulent, warning that both illegal imports and the illicit outflow of resources harm the country. Speaking at a Cabinet plenary session, he urged the government to confront these challenges rather than preserve a system that allows national wealth to be taken year after year.

Government Targets Sulawesi and Kupang for Data Centre Investment Expansion

The government is preparing to expand private data centre investment into eastern Indonesia, with Sulawesi and Kupang among the areas under consideration. Its plans include new rules for data centres and submarine cables, backup connectivity, reliable power and land access, as well as streamlined permits—measures intended to support regional investment and the growing energy and computing needs of AI.

Prabowo Wants Indonesia to Be a ‘Good Neighbour’: ‘I Followed President Jokowi’s Foreign Policy Line’

President Prabowo Subianto says Indonesia will maintain its independent and active foreign policy, prioritising national interests while seeking friendly relations with all countries. He says this approach follows the tradition of Indonesia’s founders and the foreign policy pursued by his predecessor, Joko Widodo, and rejects alignment with military blocs or pacts.

Jakarta Stocks Open Higher as Investors Await Bank Indonesia Rate Decision

Indonesia’s benchmark stock index opened higher before retreating as investors awaited Bank Indonesia’s decision, with markets expecting a 25-basis-point rate rise to 6% amid inflation and rupiah pressures. The decision could shape the rupiah, bonds and equities, while global market sentiment and foreign outflows remain key considerations.

MIND ID Commissioner Jokes: PT Timah Used to Mine, Now It Just Weighs the Ore

MIND ID chief commissioner Fuad Bawazier says PT Timah had effectively been reduced to weighing ore mined by others on its own concessions, reflecting years of weak enforcement and illegal mining. He credits the government’s crackdown on illegal tin mining with sharply improving the state-owned company’s performance, including a ninefold rise in profit, while helping curb illicit exports.

NTB Provincial Government Strengthens Trade Cooperation with West Java

The governments of West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) and West Java have signed a cooperation agreement covering food supplies, skills development, and the exchange of livestock-sector data and technology. The partnership aims to stabilise prices and strengthen interregional food security, while opening markets for NTB livestock and encouraging investment from West Java.

Gus Ipul affirms support for KPK probe into alleged vote-buying at NU congress

Social Affairs Minister and Nahdlatul Ulama deputy chairman Saifullah Yusuf has backed the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) in investigating alleged vote-buying linked to the organisation’s 35th congress. He also warned that NU branch officials who filed the report could be taken to court if the allegations prove unfounded; the KPK says it is reviewing the complaint.

Police Investigate Fortified Rice Case Over Misleading Packaging Claims

Indonesia’s Criminal Investigation Department has opened a formal investigation into five fortified rice brands after laboratory tests found their nutritional content and quality did not match their packaging claims. Police have seized 1,194 packs of rice and production machinery, while the company behind the products is estimated to have made about Rp69.9 billion in fortified rice between April and August 2026; no suspects have yet been named.

Women Urged to Play a Role in the Palestine Movement

Indonesia’s MUI has called for women to have a stronger role in humanitarian advocacy and global solidarity efforts for Palestine, including in peace negotiations and decision-making. MUI official Siti Ma’rifah says women are key to building peace and advocates a minimum 30 per cent quota for women’s participation in peace processes.

Prabowo on the Red and White Cabinet: We’re Accused of Having an Oversized Cabinet, Aren’t We?

President Prabowo Subianto acknowledged criticism that his Red and White Cabinet is too large, but argued that it has worked efficiently during his two years in office. He defended the broad coalition by pointing to Indonesia’s vast population and territory, and cited the government’s coordinated response to natural disasters as evidence of its ability to work together.

Amid Global Turmoil, Here Is the Direction of Bank Indonesia’s Policy

Bank Indonesia Governor Destry Damayanti said the central bank will assess incoming data before deciding its policy rate next month, while prioritising rupiah stability and continuing to support economic growth. BI kept the benchmark rate at 5.75% and outlined measures to attract foreign capital, deepen money and foreign-exchange markets, and sustain credit and digital payments.

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Seeks to Strengthen Forensic Auditors’ Role in Preventing Corruption in the Digital Era

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Akhmad Wiyagus has called for forensic auditors to play a stronger role in detecting and preventing corruption as financial fraud moves increasingly into the digital realm. He urged closer cooperation between the auditors’ association and government, alongside investment in auditors’ skills and integrity, to support transparent and accountable regional governance.

Jasa Raharja Issues Medical Cost Guarantees for 11 KMP Batumandi Victims

Jasa Raharja has issued guarantees covering medical treatment costs for 11 people injured in the fire aboard the KMP Batumandi, who are being treated at Krakatau Medika Hospital in Cilegon. The state-owned insurer said the guarantees are provided under the 1964 law on compulsory passenger accident insurance, as officials visited the victims and coordinated their care.

Motive Revealed in Fatal Screwdriver Attack on Co-worker in North Kuta

Police say a workplace misunderstanding over a door closer repair escalated into a fatal attack in a car park in North Kuta, Badung. The victim, a 26-year-old worker, was struck on the head with a screwdriver after he allegedly hit and insulted his 24-year-old colleague; police have secured the weapon and are investigating the case.

Pati Regent Sudewa to Appeal 8.5-Year Prison Sentence

Suspended Pati Regent Sudewa says he will appeal his 8.5-year sentence for corruption involving projects at the Directorate General of Railways and village official appointments. He criticised the court for relying on investigation records and prosecutors’ demands rather than trial evidence, while urging supporters to remain orderly and respect the law.

UMY Governance Expert’s Assessment of Two Years of Prabowo-Gibran

A government studies lecturer at Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta says flagship programmes under President Prabowo Subianto and Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka have the potential to boost economic inclusion, but weak implementation and governance threaten their impact. He also questions how state-owned enterprise profits are used and argues that an oversized Cabinet could burden coordination and slow delivery.

Jakarta’s Air Quality Remains Unhealthy; Pramono Calls for Weather Modification Ahead of JRF

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has asked the city’s disaster management agency to carry out weather-modification operations on 22–23 October, hoping to bring rain and improve air quality before the Jakarta Running Festival and a Ye concert. IQAir data placed Jakarta among the world’s most polluted major cities, with PM2.5 concentrations at 89.5 micrograms per cubic metre.

SEZ investment reaches Rp382.1 trillion as Indonesia targets growth of up to 8%

Investment in Indonesia’s 25 Special Economic Zones has reached Rp382.1 trillion and generated 302,000 jobs, with a further Rp46 trillion invested in the first nine months of 2026. The government views the zones as a key means of pursuing growth of up to 8%, and is seeking to expand and optimise them, including healthcare, tourism, industrial and digital developments.

Prabowo: We Are Forced to Face Hardship; Our Nation Has Been Deceived

President Prabowo Subianto said Indonesia had for years been made to endure hardship while national wealth was siphoned overseas through practices he described as deception. Speaking at a plenary cabinet meeting, he said he had a mandate to confront these issues and challenged political leaders and legal experts to say whether smuggling national wealth was a violation.

Manggala Agni Deploys 104 More Personnel to Fight Forest and Land Fires in Jambi

Manggala Agni has deployed 104 personnel across eight fire locations in Jambi, including areas in the Orang Kayo Hitam Forest Park and Berbak Sembilang National Park. Teams are supported by pumps, hoses and excavators supplied by government agencies and private companies to help create firebreaks, clear access and clean canals.

Concession Areas Burned; Forestry Ministry Sanctions 32 Companies

The Forestry Ministry has imposed administrative sanctions on 32 companies linked to forest and land fires affecting 12,926.74 hectares, with measures ranging from licence suspensions and ecosystem restoration orders to licence revocations. Criminal proceedings are also under way against 125 individuals and corporations, while officials say they are investigating responsibility, including beneficial owners, and may seek compensation for forest damage.

Apple Seeks 6G Modem Engineers for the iPhone

Apple is reportedly recruiting cellular modem systems engineers to develop 6G technology for the iPhone, as it targets a potential 2030 rollout. The move comes while global 6G standards and spectrum allocations remain in development, with major technology firms competing to advance the next generation of mobile connectivity.

JCI Closes 0.9% Higher

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) recovered from a sharp intraday fall to close 0.94% higher at 5,328.36, although foreign investors recorded net selling of about Rp600 billion. Investors are watching Bank Indonesia’s interest-rate decision and the response to MSCI-related concerns, including potential share purchases by Danantara and buybacks by conglomerate issuers.

KPK Summons Five Witnesses in Suspected Corruption Case Involving South Sumatra Railway Project

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned witnesses as it expands its investigation into alleged corruption in railway construction and maintenance projects in South Sumatra. The probe, launched under a new general investigation warrant in May 2026, has yet to name any suspects in this phase, although the wider case has led to charges linked to projects in several regions.

KPK Summons Former Transport Attaché at Tokyo Embassy in Railway Project Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned former transport attaché Ikhsandy Wanto Hatta and three others as witnesses in an expanding investigation into railway construction and maintenance projects in South Sumatra. The inquiry, opened under a new general investigation warrant in May 2026, has not yet named any suspects in this phase, though the broader case has already implicated former Pati regent Sudewo.

Will the National Internship Scheme Be Expanded to Senior High and Vocational School Graduates? Manpower Minister Responds

Manpower Minister Yassierli says a proposal to extend the national internship scheme to senior high and vocational school graduates remains under review, partly because it could overlap with a separate national vocational training programme. For now, the internship scheme targets 150,000 university fresh graduates, while vocational training is intended for school leavers and offers different durations and allowances.

Bappenas: Integrated Funding Needed to Accelerate Digital Transformation

Bappenas says combining funding from government, state-owned and regional enterprises, private companies and public-private partnerships will be essential to advance digital transformation in 2027. It also calls for aligned central and local regulations, targeted incentives and stronger digital infrastructure, data governance and skills to unlock AI’s contribution to productivity and growth.

June Active Studio Launches Recreational Athletes Club to Make Sport a Community Space

June Active Studio has launched the Recreational Athletes Club (RAC), a multisport initiative designed to help urban residents stay active and build social connections without the pressure of professional performance targets. The project brings together Juni Goods, Bali-based Guds Bali and Tuku, reflecting the growing role of communities and local brands in Indonesia’s recreational sports culture.

Prabowo Calls Forest Arsonists ‘Environmental Terrorists’

President Prabowo Subianto said deliberate forest and land fires were caused by human actions and described those responsible as environmental terrorists. He ordered law enforcement agencies, the Forestry Ministry, the military and intelligence services to investigate, warning that companies found in breach could lose their permits.

As Forest and Land Fires Continue to Recur, Muhammadiyah Calls on Businesses and Law Enforcement to Be Held Accountable

Muhammadiyah has expressed concern over recurring forest and land fires in Sumatra and Kalimantan, citing harm to the environment, public health, education and livelihoods. It is urging businesses to prevent fires and repair damage, while calling for transparent investigations and legal accountability for companies, individuals and anyone who obstructs enforcement.

OpenAI acquires start-up to strengthen its biotechnology business

OpenAI has acquired four-year-old biotechnology software start-up Orchestra Bio, adding its team and technology to the company’s life sciences AI model, Rosalind, and related research tools. The deal’s terms were not disclosed; the acquisition comes as major AI laboratories expand software offerings for industries such as pharmaceuticals.

Taiwan regulator blocks Grab’s purchase of Foodpanda delivery business

Taiwan’s Fair Trade Commission has blocked Grab’s proposed US$600 million acquisition of Delivery Hero’s Foodpanda delivery business in Taiwan, saying competition harms outweigh the deal’s economic benefits. Grab expressed disappointment, while Delivery Hero noted that the transaction includes deal protections, including a break-fee arrangement subject to certain conditions.

LAN: Civil Servants’ Competence Key to Development in Greater Papua

The National Institute of Public Administration (LAN) says strengthening civil servants’ skills, integrity and capacity for innovation is essential to successful development across Greater Papua. It is promoting human capital development plans and a corporate university model, while encouraging more local governments to measure policy quality and make evidence-based decisions.

Pramono Reveals Plans to Expand Transjabodetabek Services

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung says the provincial government is considering new Transjabodetabek routes after passenger numbers on existing services exceeded initial targets. The network now has 18 routes linking Jakarta with surrounding areas, and further expansion is intended to improve transport connectivity across the metropolitan region.

Prabowo: 1,000 Friends Are Too Few, One Enemy Too Many

President Prabowo Subianto says Indonesia will maintain an independent foreign policy, seeking friendly relations with all countries while avoiding alignment with any bloc or military pact. He said the approach serves national interests while remaining consistent with Indonesia’s constitutional opposition to imperialism and colonialism.

Former Pati Regent Sudewa Sentenced to 8.5 Years in Prison for Taking Rp1.3bn in Bribes and Rp2.1bn in Gratuities

A Semarang corruption court sentenced suspended Pati Regent Sudewa to 8.5 years in prison after finding him guilty of taking bribes and gratuities connected to railway projects and the alleged extortion of village-official candidates. The ruling also imposes a Rp300 million fine and Rp3.5 billion in compensation, while the judges rejected prosecutors’ request to bar him from holding public office.

NTB Museum to Temporarily Close Permanent Exhibition Galleries from 22 October 2026

The West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) State Museum will close its permanent exhibition galleries from 22 October to 17 November 2026 for a revamp, while keeping other areas open to visitors. A temporary exhibition on the province’s history and culture is planned, with the renovation expected to finish in early December and coincide with NTB’s 68th anniversary celebrations.

Forest and Land Fire on Mount Lawu Grows, Advancing Towards Hargo Dalem Summit

A forest and land fire on the slopes of Mount Lawu has spread from Gondosuli towards Ngargoyoso and the Hargo Dalem summit, with reports of ash reaching nearby plantations and homes. Firefighters are using water bombing and manual containment, while local teams are protecting residents’ water pipelines amid difficult weather conditions.

A Dozen Rental Homes in Penjaringan Destroyed by Fire After Gas Cylinder Leak

A fire triggered by a suspected leak during gas-cylinder refilling destroyed 12 rental homes, seven stalls and a pile of scrap in North Jakarta early on Wednesday. Firefighters deployed 21 engines and 110 personnel, bringing the blaze under control after nearly four hours; authorities are still assessing the losses.

Manpower Ministry: 2027 Minimum Wage Setting Still Follows Government Regulation No. 49/2025

The Manpower Ministry says Indonesia’s 2027 minimum wages will continue to be set under Government Regulation No. 49/2025, using inflation and economic growth alongside a specific index of 0.5–0.9. The ministry says decent living needs inform that index, while workers’ unions have proposed a 7.5–9.5 per cent increase and the final adjustment must follow statutory procedures.

Prabowo: We Are Now in a Situation Where We Must Survive

President Prabowo Subianto said Indonesia must prioritise national and public interests as it confronts the threat of resource exploitation and smuggling. He argued that smuggling of goods ranging from narcotics and minerals to fuel and fertiliser damages the national economy and called for the country to protect its wealth.

Presidential Chief of Staff explains the importance of national industrialisation to workers

Presidential Chief of Staff Listyo Sigit Prabowo said stronger national industrialisation and faster downstream processing could boost competitiveness, increase value added and create jobs. He called for skilled workers and harmonious labour relations, while urging workers to support President Prabowo’s development agenda and the government’s strategic programmes.

Baznas and Religious Affairs Ministry to Renovate 700 Private Madrasahs, Setting Aside Rp17.5 Billion

Baznas has allocated Rp17.5 billion for a 2026 programme to renovate classrooms at 700 private Islamic schools, in partnership with the Ministry of Religious Affairs. The initiative provides Rp25 million per school for improvements to comfort, cleanliness, ventilation, lighting and structural safety, while its organisers say demand far exceeds the programme’s current reach.

Europe Is in a Bad Way

Protests that began over deteriorating school conditions in France have spread into broader challenges to democratic governance, fuelled by public-service failures, rising prices and economic hardship. The article describes mass demonstrations in France and a separate Spanish protest over the eviction of an elderly tenant, illustrating wider discontent across Europe.

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Wiyagus Urges Stronger Role for Forensic Auditors in Preventing Corruption in the Digital Era

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Akhmad Wiyagus has called for forensic auditors to work more closely with government to detect and prevent corruption as financial fraud increasingly shifts into the digital realm. He said technology brings both opportunities for more efficient, transparent governance and new threats, including cybercrime, data manipulation and AI-enabled scams, requiring stronger auditor capacity and collaboration.

Nur Arning Kasih, the Creator of SOBIKU, an App for the Early Detection of Childhood Cancer

Nur Arning Tengara Kasih has been named among the top three candidates in the Health Technology Innovator category of the 2026 DPD RI Awards for developing SOBIKU Indonesia. The app supports community-level early detection of childhood cancer and has reached tens of thousands of website visitors, while training health-post volunteers and connecting families with psychosocial and practical support.

Pati Regent Sudewo Sentenced to 8.5 Years in DJKA Corruption and Village Official Extortion Case

A Semarang corruption court sentenced suspended Pati Regent Sudewo to eight years and six months in prison and ordered him to pay Rp3.5 billion in compensation over corruption involving railway projects and extortion of village officials. The court also imposed a Rp300 million fine, convertible to 100 days in prison if unpaid.

Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture steps up collaboration to curb violence against women and children

Coordinating Minister Sugiono is seeking stronger cross-ministry cooperation to address violence against women and children and improve their quality of life. The government is expanding regional protection services and reporting access, while using measurable indicators to track progress and promoting initiatives intended to strengthen women’s economic resilience in villages.

Many Changes: Here Are BI’s Decisions at the October 2026 Board of Governors Meeting

Bank Indonesia kept its benchmark BI Rate at 5.75% at its October meeting, while raising the Deposit Facility rate to 5.00% and announcing measures to ease bank liquidity and support lending. It also strengthened foreign-exchange interventions and hedging incentives, extended zero-down-payment rules for property and vehicle financing through 2027, and advanced plans to expand QRIS cross-border payments and other digital payment systems.

Tabanan Police Chief Hears Residents’ Concerns at Coffee Shop, Fuel and Traffic in Focus

Tabanan Police Chief AKBP I Putu Bayu Pati met around 30 residents in Dauh Peken to hear concerns including fuel shortages, traffic diversions and waste management. Residents also raised questions about the Free Nutritious Meals programme, village-head elections and the Merah Putih Cooperative, with the police chief pledging to coordinate follow-up with relevant agencies.

Central Java MUI’s LPPOM Urges Support for Halal Certification among Micro and Small Businesses

LPPOM Central Java is calling for stronger guidance to help micro and small businesses understand and complete halal-certification requirements, including addressing documentation, ingredient-sourcing and financing obstacles. The adjusted transition period, which gives certain product categories until 17 October 2028, is an opportunity for businesses to prepare, while MUI’s regional network is expected to expand outreach and assistance.

Paid up to Rp10 Million, Operators Were Barred from Leaving Tramadol Factory

Police say operators at an illegal tramadol factory in Sukoharjo were paid Rp5 million to Rp10 million a month but were not allowed to leave the premises. The factory allegedly produced medicines without BPOM standards or clear legal status; suspects face charges carrying up to 12 years in prison and a Rp5 billion fine.

Prabowo to Red and White Cabinet: Thank You for Your Teamwork Over the Past Two Years

President Prabowo Subianto praised his ministers for their hard work and cohesion during the government’s first two years, saying their performance was a source of pride. He stressed that effective teamwork matters more than individual brilliance and described the ministers as among the nation’s finest.

Communications Ministry stresses need to strengthen a sovereign, self-reliant AI ecosystem

Indonesia’s Communications and Digital Affairs Ministry says the country must build a sovereign and self-reliant AI ecosystem rather than remain merely a market for global technology. The ministry emphasises national control over rules, data and strategic decisions, while developing domestic capabilities and pursuing international collaboration that builds local capacity rather than dependency.

Two Teenagers Arrested After Motorcyclist Is Macheted, Losing a Finger in Imogiri, Bantul

Police in Bantul have arrested two 17-year-old students in connection with a machete attack that severed an 18-year-old motorcyclist’s finger in Imogiri. Investigators say the group had been drinking and set out on a planned dawn attack; the suspects are being held at a youth rehabilitation centre and face up to nine years in prison.

Prabowo: We Should Be Proud of the Government’s Achievements in Two Years

President Prabowo Subianto said the government had delivered tangible results during its first two years and urged ministers to take pride in them without becoming complacent. He highlighted enforcement against smuggling—including narcotics and goods that threaten domestic industries—and efforts to protect Indonesia’s natural resources and subsidised commodities from illicit exports.

China Condemns US Ban on DeepSeek AI

China has condemned a US order requiring federal agencies to stop using DeepSeek, accusing Washington of politicising science, technology and trade under an expansive definition of national security. The dispute comes as China’s AI sector rapidly narrows the gap with the US, intensifying concerns and accusations over the use of American models to train Chinese systems.

Pati Regent Sudewo Sentenced to 8.5 Years in Prison

A court in Semarang has sentenced suspended Pati Regent Sudewo to eight years and six months in prison and fined him Rp300 million for bribery and gratification linked to railway projects and the sale of village official posts. The sentence matches the public prosecutor’s demand, although the prosecution had also sought Rp3.6 billion in restitution.

Forestry Ministry stresses importance of public participation in tackling forest and land fires

Indonesia’s Forestry Ministry says public involvement is essential to tackling forest and land fires, citing the social and cultural dimensions of fire incidents. It aims to establish 500 Fire-Aware Community groups, equivalent to 15,000 members, while fires had affected about 1,024 hectares as of 20 October 2026, with more than half still burning.

Cabinet Secretary Presents Two-Year Government Achievements at Start of Cabinet Meeting

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya opened a plenary meeting marking the first two years of the Prabowo-Gibran administration by presenting a video of reported government achievements. The figures covered education, healthcare, housing, infrastructure, energy and state-asset management, including claims of Rp54.8 trillion in state assets saved and Rp218.3 trillion in BLBI-related bond debt repaid.

Manpower Minister Issues Stern Warning, Says National Internship Scheme Must Not Be Used to Replace Workers

Manpower Minister Yassierli says the government will monitor the National Internship Programme to ensure companies use interns for skills development rather than as substitutes for regular employees. The warning follows concerns from CORE Indonesia that government-funded stipends could make the scheme a low-cost recruitment channel, even as the programme offers work experience to recent graduates.

West Jakarta Police Solve 43 Theft Cases in a Month, Arresting 53 Suspects

West Jakarta police say they solved 43 street-crime cases between September and October 2026, arresting 53 people suspected of involvement. The cases include motorcycle thefts, robberies and burglaries, with police also investigating alleged intimidation by debt collectors and seizing weapons, vehicles and other evidence.

Prabowo Opens Cabinet Meeting, Highlights Global Challenges

President Prabowo Subianto opened a plenary cabinet meeting marking the government’s first two years, praising ministers for their teamwork while outlining geopolitical, economic and climate-related challenges. He said global tensions and economic interdependence affect all countries, while Indonesia’s position on the Pacific Ring of Fire brings both disaster risks and opportunities, including fertile soil and valuable minerals.

OVO and Superbank Partnership Makes Transactions Easier Without Multiple Apps

OVO and Superbank are integrating their services to let customers access digital banking features through a wider ecosystem, reducing the need to download and use multiple apps. The partnership reflects growing demand for e-wallet and digital banking services as Indonesia’s digital economy expands towards US$100 billion.

BI: Hedging incentives since June support US$9.9 billion in inflows

Bank Indonesia says hedging incentives introduced in June 2026, including swap and DNDF instruments, helped attract US$9.9 billion in foreign capital by 20 October. The central bank says it will continue using monetary tools to stabilise the rupiah, which weakened in October amid geopolitical tensions, tighter US monetary policy and foreign investor sentiment.

Bogor Regency Government to Cover Treatment Costs for 103 Cisarua Junior High School Pupils Suspected of MBG Food Poisoning

Bogor Regency is covering medical costs for 103 junior high school pupils who fell ill after eating food provided under the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. Officials said the pupils were in stable condition, with symptoms including nausea and dizziness, as health workers monitored them at Cisarua Lung Hospital.

ASDP to Cover Losses Suffered by Passengers of KM Batumandi

ASDP Indonesia Ferry says passengers affected by the fire aboard KM Batumandi will receive insurance cover based on their losses, and is coordinating with Jasa Raharja to assess claims. All 420 passengers were evacuated safely; six people received treatment for minor injuries or other effects and have since been discharged. The cause of the fire is under investigation by the National Transportation Safety Committee and police.

Iran Refuses to Transfer Enriched Uranium Abroad

Iran has ruled out allowing any nuclear material, including its stockpile of enriched uranium, to leave the country, calling it a national asset intended for domestic use. The statement comes as diplomatic efforts between Tehran and Washington remain stalled, with Pakistan and Qatar seeking to revive negotiations and disputes over Iran’s uranium stockpile unresolved.

PDI-P Seeks to Pass Bung Karno’s Legacy of Struggle on to Young People

PDI-P’s Party School says it aims to pass on the values championed by the country’s founding fathers, particularly Bung Karno, while teaching young participants about Pancasila and the Constitution. The programme is also intended to bridge the communication gap between older political leaders and young people and prepare future leaders through a gradual cadre-building process.

Penglipuran in Bali named among world’s 20 most beautiful villages in 2026

Condé Nast Traveler has recognised Penglipuran in Bangli Regency for its cultural preservation, traditional architecture and clean environment, marking the second consecutive year the village has appeared on the magazine’s beauty lists. The recognition highlights the community’s efforts to balance tourism growth with protecting its cultural identity and environmental sustainability.

Free Nutritious Meals Programme helps meet the food needs of pupils at SLB B YPAC Banda Aceh

Indonesia’s Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme is helping pupils at SLB B YPAC Banda Aceh, including those who travel long distances and arrive without breakfast. A teacher says the shared meals also support families with limited means and provide an opportunity to teach good habits, while stressing that food quality and pupils’ differing preferences should be taken into account.

Driving the Local Economy through Global Investment with BRI

Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) has partnered with the Foreign Ministry to connect international investors with Indonesian business opportunities and help domestic companies and MSMEs access overseas markets. A forum in Jakarta brought together diplomats, government representatives and business chambers to explore partnerships and investment that could support national growth and deliver wider benefits to local businesses.

Police Name Five Suspect Fortified Rice Brands in Consumer Protection Probe

Indonesia’s Criminal Investigation Department has opened an investigation into five fortified rice brands after laboratory tests found their nutritional content and quality did not match the packaging claims. The producer, PT DTA, made an estimated 2,500 tonnes between April and August 2026, with production valued at up to Rp69.995 billion; the company and its alleged conduct face potential consumer-protection penalties.

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Officially Opens Plenary Cabinet Meeting at the Palace

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya opened a plenary cabinet meeting at the Presidential Palace, attended by ministers and senior officials. The session is focused on reviewing the first two years of President Prabowo Subianto and Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming’s administration.

Repeated Ship Accidents Raise Questions over Seaworthiness Certification

A senior Indonesian MP has questioned the reliability of ship seaworthiness certificates issued by state-owned classification body BKI, following a series of maritime accidents including the fire aboard KMP Batumandi. He called on the Transport Ministry to revise a regulation that gives BKI a sole role in classifying passenger ships, arguing that closer oversight and reform are needed to address systemic safety concerns.

CIMB Niaga Chief Responds to Reports of Possible IDX Delisting

CIMB Niaga is assessing options to meet Indonesia’s 15% free-float requirement, with its current public float estimated at about 8.5%, and says it remains committed to complying with regulations. Reports say parent company CIMB Group is considering a delisting, partly because it believes the bank’s shares are undervalued; the news sent BNGA shares up 11.29% to Rp1,730 in Wednesday’s session.

BNPB: 60 Hectares of Forest Burned in Palolo, Sigi

A forest fire has burned 60 hectares in Palolo, Sigi Regency, Central Sulawesi, with authorities suspecting it was sparked by community activity involving damar trees. Difficult terrain near the buffer zone of Lore Lindu National Park is hampering efforts by joint teams to extinguish the flames and contain the fire.

Bareskrim Investigates Suspected Fraud Over Fortified Rice Quality Claims

Indonesia’s Criminal Investigation Agency has opened a formal investigation into five fortified-rice brands after laboratory tests found their nutritional content did not match the packaging labels. The brands are made by one company, PT DTA, and investigators have seized 6.4 tonnes of rice and a rice-milling production line; no suspects have yet been named.

Government Offers 100% VAT Relief on Flights During Christmas and New Year Holiday Period

The government will cover 100% of VAT on eligible domestic economy-class scheduled flights during the 2026–27 Christmas and New Year holiday period. The relief applies only to the ticket base fare and fuel surcharge, while charges for optional services such as extra baggage and seat selection remain payable by passengers.

Kadin: Employment Protection Law Should Safeguard Productivity and Well-being

Indonesia’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) says the proposed new employment law should support workers’ productivity and well-being while establishing a wage framework acceptable to both employees and businesses. Kadin also urges improvements in workplace culture and wider access to competency certification, as it awaits the government’s rules for setting minimum-wage increases, including for 2027.

Prabowo on Two Years in Government: My Assessment Is Quite Encouraging

President Prabowo Subianto praised the performance of his ministers and officials at a plenary Cabinet meeting marking two years of his administration, saying their work had been impressive. He cited global conflicts and trade tensions, Indonesia’s location in the Ring of Fire, and climate and weather changes among the challenges facing the government.

Alvonsus Accused of Bribing Lombok Barat Regent with Rp1.6 Billion, a Car and Air Tickets

Prosecutors say businessman Alvonsus Gani gave inactive Lombok Barat Regent Lalu Ahmad Zaini more than Rp2.07 billion in cash, goods and travel and hotel benefits to secure government projects. Gani admitted to the bribery charge and did not challenge the indictment; the case is linked to alleged manipulation of tenders worth Rp17.9 billion.

Interior Ministry Secretary-General Urges Newly Appointed Officials to Conduct Thorough Reviews and Set Measurable Targets

Interior Ministry Secretary-General Tomsi Tohir has appointed four senior officials and urged them to review their units’ performance, identify shortcomings and set measurable improvement targets. He said programmes should be judged by tangible outcomes and public benefit, not merely by completed activities or administrative paperwork.

Indonesia records $660m in October capital inflows after Q3 outflow

Indonesia recorded a net foreign capital outflow of $80 million in the third quarter of 2026, before portfolio investment returned to a $660 million net inflow from 1 to 19 October, Bank Indonesia said. A larger trade surplus and $146.3 billion in foreign exchange reserves support external resilience, while the central bank forecasts a 2026 current account deficit of 1.2–1.6% of GDP and economic growth of 4.9–5.7%.

112 Schools and 10 Offices in South Jakarta Hold Simultaneous Earthquake Drill

A total of 112 schools and 10 government offices in South Jakarta took part in a simultaneous earthquake preparedness drill. The exercise tested evacuation procedures and building readiness, with the Jakarta Regional Disaster Management Agency saying regular practice can strengthen emergency response and reduce the risk of casualties.

Russian Oil in the Spotlight as US Secretary of State Visits Indian Refinery

Marco Rubio’s visit to Reliance Industries’ Jamnagar refinery comes as Washington and New Delhi struggle to finalise a trade deal and the US weighs sanctions over India’s purchases of Russian oil. The visit highlights the refinery’s importance to global fuel supplies, while shifting US policy and restrictions affecting Indian workers and businesses are adding to concerns about trust in the bilateral relationship.

Interior Ministry Secretary-General Urges Newly Appointed Officials to Set Measurable Targets

Interior Ministry Secretary-General Tomsi Tohir has appointed four senior officials and called on them to assess existing programmes, identify shortcomings and set measurable improvement targets. He stressed that success should be judged by tangible results and public benefit, not simply completed activities or administrative paperwork.

Apple to Spend Rp1.8 Trillion on US Content for Foldable Phone

Apple has pledged to buy up to US$100 million worth of titanium over three years from Pennsylvania-based Perryman Company, as it expands US manufacturing under its American Manufacturing Programme. The move supports components for products including its rumoured first foldable iPhone, while Apple is also expanding US production of camera films, chips and protective glass.

Global Tipping Points Conference 2026 concludes in Malaysia with Kuala Lumpur Declaration and new roadmap for Asia

The Global Tipping Points Conference 2026 in Kuala Lumpur concluded with a declaration endorsed by 521 participants from 37 countries, urging coordinated action to accelerate positive societal and environmental change. Organisers also committed to produce the first Asia Tipping Points Report by 2028 and said regional perspectives will inform the next global conference in 2027.

Prabowo Thanks the Red and White Cabinet

President Prabowo Subianto thanked the Red and White Cabinet for its work and teamwork during the first two years of his administration, speaking at a plenary cabinet meeting in Jakarta. He said effective cooperation mattered more than individual brilliance and praised cabinet members as among Indonesia’s finest citizens.

BI Holds Its Rate: The 10 Countries with the Highest Interest Rates in the World

Bank Indonesia held its benchmark rate at 5.75% on 21 October 2026, well below rates in countries such as Venezuela, Türkiye and Argentina. The article says exceptionally high rates often reflect efforts to curb inflation and support currencies, but can also raise borrowing costs and weigh on consumption, investment and economic growth.

Syahganda Highlights Achievements of Prabowo Government’s First Two Years, with Farmers’ Welfare and Workers’ Wages Rising

Government Communications Agency head Syahganda Nainggolan cited 5.61 per cent economic growth in the first quarter of 2026, alongside increases in farmers’ terms of trade and workers’ wages, as indicators of progress under President Prabowo Subianto. He also acknowledged that around 11 million people from the middle class have slipped into the lower-middle-income group, saying this would be a government focus in 2027.

98 Resolution Network Highlights Prabowo-Gibran Government’s Actions Over Two Years

The 98 Resolution Network, a volunteer group supporting President Prabowo Subianto and Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, has outlined policies it says have advanced economic equality and public welfare during their first two years in office. Its claims span natural-resource management, finance, food and housing programmes, education, healthcare and legislation, including the establishment of Danantara and measures it says curb digital transport app commissions.

The Grandeur of Hagia Sophia and Çamlıca Mosque in Istanbul

Istanbul’s historic mosques and places of worship draw visitors despite autumn rain, with Hagia Sophia standing out for its Byzantine architecture and Islamic features. Its changing roles—as a church, mosque and museum—reflect the city’s layered religious and political history.

MP Rejects Luhut’s Proposal to Remove State Losses from Corruption Offences

Rudianto Lallo, a member of the House of Representatives’ Commission III, has rejected Luhut Binsar Panjaitan’s proposal to exclude state financial losses from the definition of corruption, arguing it does not fit Indonesia’s legal and anti-corruption framework. Luhut says President Prabowo supports a National Economic Council study based on the UN convention, which he argues would align Indonesia with international standards and avoid burdening businesses.

Government steps up healthcare support for residents affected by forest and land fires

The government is strengthening health monitoring and protection for people exposed to smoke from forest and land fires, with an emphasis on mask use and coordination with the Ministry of Health. Measures include air-quality monitoring, health warnings, distance-learning readiness and expanded medical services and supplies, particularly for vulnerable groups.

Apple Says 100 Components for iPhone Duo and iPhone 18 Pro Are Made in the US

Apple says 100 components for its iPhone Duo and iPhone 18 Pro are now manufactured in the United States, following new and expanded partnerships with Perryman and Qnity Electronics. The agreements include US-made titanium for the iPhone Duo and advanced film for the iPhone 18 Pro camera, as Apple also plans for Corning to make all cover glass for iPhones and Apple Watches sold worldwide by the end of 2026.

PDI-P Urges Gen Z to Inherit the Spirit of the Youth Pledge

PDI-P’s party school chief, Komarudin Watubun, has urged young Indonesians to uphold the unity embodied in the 1928 Youth Pledge. The party’s programme combines political discussion, ethical dialogue and cultural activities, while encouraging Gen Z to create digital content grounded in ideology, morality and nationalism.

BBC to close three television and radio channels amid cost pressures

The BBC plans to move BBC Three and BBC Scotland to online-only services and discontinue Radio 4 Extra as it pursues £500 million in savings over two years. The broadcaster says urgent cost pressures require difficult choices and a tighter focus on services with the greatest audience impact.

PDI-P Backs End to Automatic Grade Promotion, Citing Primary Pupils Who Cannot Read Fluently

PDI-P legislator MY Esti Wijayati has backed a proposal to end automatic grade promotion from the 2027/2028 academic year, while calling for further discussion before it is introduced. She argues that promotion should reflect pupils’ mastery of minimum learning standards, pointing to primary-school children who still struggle to read and suggesting automatic promotion may weaken students’ and parents’ motivation.

Pramono urges Jakarta to speed up projects to avoid year-end APBD spending rush

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has urged city departments to complete planned projects progressively, after expenditure from the 2026 regional budget reached 54.39% of its allocation by the end of September. He warned that postponing work until November and December risks creating a year-end bottleneck, and said transparent budget management should be judged by its benefits to residents and public services.

Police Investigate Rp9 Billion in Cash Found at Sukoharjo Tramadol Factory

Police have found Rp9 billion in cash, vehicle ownership documents and securities while investigating two illegal tramadol factories in Sukoharjo, Central Java. Sixteen people have been detained, while investigators are pursuing two suspected owners and examining whether the assets are connected to the factories’ operations.

Monitoring MSCI’s Impact, BI Governor Says: ‘We Held Two Days of Very Intensive Discussions’

Bank Indonesia held two days of intensive discussions at governor level in response to MSCI’s assessment of Indonesia’s capital market and pressure on the rupiah. The central bank is monitoring capital outflows and plans targeted measures, including enhanced hedging-cost incentives, to attract foreign funds back into domestic assets and support market stability.

Pramono: Jakarta Inflation at 2.71%, ‘Well Managed’

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung says the capital’s inflation is under control at between 2.5% and 2.71%, below the national rate of 3.28%. The Jakarta administration is focusing on affordable prices, food-stock availability and smooth distribution, while monitoring the impact of chilli and rice prices.

Gibran and Raja Juli Attend Second Anniversary Cabinet Meeting at the Palace

Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka attended a cabinet meeting at the Presidential Palace marking two years of President Prabowo Subianto’s administration. Ministers and agency heads were expected to report on the government’s achievements as the President reviewed its performance.

PII Reviews PT Pindad with Delegation of ASEAN Engineers

The Indonesian Engineers Association (PII) and engineers from across ASEAN visited PT Pindad in Bandung during CAFEO 44 to learn about the company’s defence and security technologies. PII chair Ilham Akbar Habibie said domestic propellant production could strengthen Indonesia’s defence-industrial independence, while Pindad expressed readiness to collaborate with professional engineers on product development.

Forestry Minister announces permit suspensions for six companies over forest fires in Central Kalimantan

Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni said permits for six more companies had been suspended and ecological restoration ordered in connection with forest and land fires in Central Kalimantan. The latest action brings the total number of companies sanctioned to 32, with authorities also pursuing criminal proceedings against 125 legal subjects, including companies and individuals.

Yemen’s Central Bank Freezes Accounts and Assets Linked to the Houthis

Yemen’s Central Bank has ordered financial institutions to freeze the accounts and assets of 135 individuals, entities and vessels linked to the Houthis, following their inclusion on an official terrorism list. The measures prohibit transactions with those listed and require institutions to report their holdings, amid escalating conflict and moves by Yemen’s internationally recognised government to criminalise Houthi activities and funding.

France Extends Curfews in Several Cities as Protests and Rioting Continue

France has extended curfews in Paris, Lyon and Marseille after protests over rising living costs and deteriorating public services escalated into clashes, arson and looting. At least 2,400 people have been arrested since the weekend, as authorities impose movement and assembly restrictions to restore order.

Jasa Marga Weighs Share Buyback Option Amid Market Conditions

Indonesia’s state-owned toll-road operator Jasa Marga is monitoring capital-market developments and says it is considering a possible share buyback. Any move would be assessed against liquidity needs, expansion plans and the company’s financial fundamentals, with further information to be disclosed in line with regulations.

Indonesia targets 17.6 million tourist visits through tourism SEZs

Indonesia aims to attract 16–17.6 million foreign visitors in 2026 and earn about US$24 billion in foreign exchange, with six tourism special economic zones expected to contribute to the target. Officials outlined projected visitor numbers and economic benefits for several zones by 2027, while stressing the need for coordinated promotion, stronger workforce skills and improved transport connectivity.

Minibus Carrying Kindergarten Pupils to Hajj Ritual Practice Crashes into Bus in Pandeglang; Brake Failure Suspected

A minibus carrying kindergarten pupils to a Hajj ritual practice in Pandeglang crashed into a coach and a motorbike after suspected brake failure, injuring five people. The injured were taken to Berkah Regional Hospital for further treatment.

Manpower Minister’s Remarks Reveal the Future of National Apprenticeship and Vocational Programmes in 2027

Manpower Minister Yassierli says Indonesia will continue its national apprenticeship programme in 2027, targeting around 150,000 participants, alongside a vocational programme for 300,000. The ministry plans to improve programme governance and broaden access across the country following its 2026 implementation.

Digitalisation Makes Life Easier for Aceh Residents: Shopping Is Now Just a Click Away

Online shopping and improved internet access are giving residents of Pulau Breueh, Aceh, more choice while reducing the time and cost of buying goods. The growth in digital transactions has also created local payment and top-up services, although mobile coverage remains uneven.

Pramono says food price monitoring helps keep Jakarta inflation in check

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo said regular monitoring of food prices, smoother distribution and adequate supplies have helped keep the capital’s annual inflation below the national rate. Inflation stood at 2.71 per cent in September 2026, compared with 3.28 per cent nationally, although chillies and, to a lesser extent, rice remained sources of price pressure.

Jasa Raharja Guarantees Treatment Costs for 11 KMP Batumandi Fire Victims

State-owned insurer Jasa Raharja has issued guarantees to cover medical treatment for 11 people injured in the KMP Batumandi fire near Merak Port. The company says it is coordinating with hospitals and authorities under Indonesia’s compulsory passenger accident insurance law, while all 420 passengers and 40 crew members were safely evacuated.

Lombok Tengah Residents Turn Waste into Fertiliser and Valuable Crafts

Residents of Segala Anyar village in Central Lombok are turning animal waste and recyclable materials into organic fertiliser and products for sale through a community-run Waste Station supported by Mataram University. The multi-year initiative aims to improve local incomes and environmental awareness, with plans to develop crafts, expand marketing and establish the village as a waste-management-based educational tourism destination.

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Urges Regional Leaders to Plan for Green Jobs

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya Sugiarto has urged governors, mayors and regents to develop green employment tailored to local needs, rather than relying solely on conventional industries. He said Indonesia has an estimated 8–13 million potential green jobs, with the figure projected to reach 72 million by 2029, and stressed that economic growth must not come at the expense of the environment.

Elon Musk Considers Tesla-SpaceX Merger as Shares Soar

Elon Musk says the boards of Tesla and SpaceX have formed special committees to discuss a possible merger, while SpaceX reported sharply higher third-quarter revenue and profits. Growth was driven by Starlink connectivity and its rapidly expanding AI business, although Musk’s target of US$500 billion to US$1 trillion in annual recurring revenue by the end of 2027 far exceeds analysts’ forecasts.

KMP Batumandi Was Carrying 89 Vehicles; Police Open Lost Property Desk

The KMP Batumandi ferry, which caught fire near Merak Port, was carrying 420 passengers and 89 vehicles. Police have opened a desk to record lost valuables and vehicles destroyed in the fire, while 11 passengers received medical attention and ASDP arranged onward transport for those travelling to Greater Jakarta.

Bali Police Urge Victims of Overseas Job Scam to Come Forward

Bali Police have arrested two suspects accused of posing as agents arranging documents and visas for overseas work, but so far only two victims have been identified. Investigators are checking for further victims and possible links to a wider network, and are urging anyone affected by the same alleged scheme to report it.

Suspected MBG Food Poisoning Cases Among Cisarua, Bogor, Middle School Pupils Rise to 103

A total of 103 pupils from a state middle school in Cisarua, Bogor, were treated after suspected food poisoning linked to the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. Bogor Regent Rudy Susmanto said their condition was stable, with authorities observing them before discharge and planning follow-up checks at their homes.

From Willem’s Toren III Lighthouse, Bustami Opens a Window on the World

Improved mobile and internet coverage on Aceh’s Pulo Aceh has helped fishermen check prices, negotiate better sales and stay in contact with family and emergency services. Government-backed towers and public internet access points have expanded connectivity across the islands, though signal speeds still vary.

Coordinating Minister Stresses Role of Parents and Schools in Preventing Bullying of Children

Coordinating Minister for Community Empowerment Abdul Muhaimin Iskandar says schools and parents must work together to prevent bullying, rather than communicating only after incidents occur. He calls for early, coordinated steps to protect potential victims, address children who bully others and make educational settings safer for all children.

West Kalimantan Police Handling 33 Corporate Forest and Land Fire Cases

West Kalimantan Police and district and municipal units are handling 101 forest and land fire cases, including 33 involving corporations and 41 involving individuals. Of the total, 56 have reached completion, while the rest remain under investigation or inquiry; police stressed that corporate involvement alone does not establish liability, which must be determined through legal proceedings and evidence.

Video: Superbank Strengthens Digitalisation to Serve Millions of OVO-Grab Customers

Superbank is expanding integrated digital banking services through the OVO and Grab ecosystems, with 3.2 million users already accessing the services and transactions continuing to rise. The bank is investing in digital technology and AI-assisted credit assessment while partners promote financial literacy and transparent lending.

KPK Writes to TNI Commander over Soldiers Suspected of Involvement in BNPB Corruption

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has sent TNI Commander General Agus Subiyanto details of an alleged bribery and conflict-of-interest case involving disaster-response funds at BNPB, including suspected involvement by military personnel. Five people have been named suspects; the KPK expects the TNI Military Police Centre to follow up, while Indonesia Corruption Watch has urged investigators to examine senior decision-makers as well as technical officials.

Minimum Wage for 2027 Proposed to Rise by Up to 9.5%, Manpower Ministry Says

Indonesia’s Manpower Ministry says the proposed 7.5–9.5% increase in the 2027 minimum wage cannot be applied uniformly and must reflect local economic and labour-market conditions. The proposal, put forward by the Indonesian Trade Union Confederation, will be weighed against inflation, economic growth, decent living needs, productivity and businesses’ capacity under the applicable formula.

Forestry Minister Says 32 Companies Have Been Sanctioned over Forest and Land Fires

The Forestry Ministry has imposed administrative sanctions on six more companies in Central Kalimantan over areas affected by forest and land fires, bringing the total sanctioned to 32. The minister said 120 cases are being processed and that the ministry will coordinate with the police to align investigations and determine which cases may proceed jointly or criminally.

BI Holds Interest Rates as Rupiah Closes Weaker at Rp18,000 per US Dollar

The rupiah weakened 0.11% to Rp18,000 per US dollar, while Bank Indonesia held its benchmark rate at 5.75%, contrary to most surveyed institutions’ expectations of a 25-basis-point hike. BI raised the Deposit Facility rate to 5.00% and cited external pressures, while reporting that its measures had attracted US$9.9 billion in capital inflows since June.

Police: All KMP Batumandi Passengers Rescued Safely

Banten Police said everyone aboard the KMP Batumandi was safely evacuated after the ferry caught fire near Merak Port, with injured passengers taken to nearby medical facilities. ASDP Indonesia Ferry is arranging onward transport, while police have set up a service post to assist passengers who lost valuables or important documents; the cause of the fire remains under investigation.

BGN Digitises Local Supply Chains to Supply Free Nutritious Meals Programme

Indonesia’s National Nutrition Agency (BGN) is digitally integrating local supply chains to improve the speed and efficiency of supplies for the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. The agency says the MBG 2.0 expansion will also strengthen local staffing and oversight, particularly in remote areas and regions with high stunting prevalence; the programme currently serves more than 57.4 million beneficiaries.

On Haze, Malaysia Respects Indonesia’s Sovereignty, but…

Malaysia’s Deputy Minister for Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability says the country respects Indonesia’s sovereignty while insisting it must defend Malaysians’ rights in response to transboundary pollution. Malaysia says it will address the haze through regional diplomacy, operational coordination and long-term strategic cooperation, including continued work with Indonesia under the ASEAN haze pollution agreement.

Airlangga Targets 17.6 Million Foreign Tourists by Leveraging Tourism Special Economic Zones

Indonesia is targeting 16–17.6 million foreign tourist arrivals in 2026, generating about US$24 billion in foreign-exchange earnings, with six tourism special economic zones expected to help deliver the goal. The government is also seeking stronger promotion and transport links; cumulative investment across all 25 special economic zones has reached Rp382.1 trillion.

MSCI Puts Pressure on Indonesia’s Stock Market: BI Governor’s Plan to Bring Back Foreign Capital

Bank Indonesia is monitoring capital outflows following MSCI’s assessment of Indonesia’s capital market, while judging the rupiah’s pressure to remain relatively normal amid weak regional conditions. The central bank plans targeted incentives—including cheaper hedging and liquidity measures—to attract foreign inflows and support financial stability and economic growth.

GoTo Launches Local 27-Billion-Parameter LLM to Strengthen AI Ecosystem

GoTo has released an open-source, 27-billion-parameter language model built to understand Indonesian and several regional languages, with free access for businesses, universities, researchers and public institutions. Supported by the Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs, the initiative aims to make AI more responsive to local needs and broaden domestic capacity to develop the technology.

Super Typhoon Champi Detected Near Indonesia, BMKG Issues Warning

BMKG says Category 5 Typhoon Champi, east of the Philippines, could affect Indonesian waters despite being forecast to weaken and move away from the country. It expects moderate to high waves in waters around Maluku, Talaud and Papua, while Japanese authorities are also preparing for the storm’s potential approach.

Permits of Six More Companies Suspended over Forest and Land Fires, Bringing Total to 32

Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni said the government has suspended the permits of six more companies over forest and land fires, taking the total sanctioned to 32. The affected concessions cover 1.93 million hectares, and the government has ordered ecosystem restoration while warning that companies could also face criminal proceedings.

Youth Ministry to Create Four Creative Spaces at Indonesia Youth Summit

The Ministry of Youth and Sports will organise four activity areas at the Indonesia Youth Summit 2026 in Jakarta on 29–30 October. The programme will bring young people together with policymakers, showcase youth innovation and enterprise, explore technology and mental health, and offer platforms for creative expression and networking.

Two Years of Prabowo’s Government: Rocky Gerung Gives It a Finger Heart

As President Prabowo Subianto and Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka mark two years in office, presidential advisory council member Rocky Gerung said the milestone made an evaluation necessary, then offered a finger-heart gesture instead of a verbal score. A cabinet meeting was scheduled at the Presidential Palace to coordinate, integrate and monitor government programmes across ministries and agencies.

Laut Bercerita: Loss, Young Voices and Memory Meet on the Big Screen

The film Laut Bercerita revisits young people’s activism during Indonesia’s political climate in the 1990s, while foregrounding the families and loved ones affected by disappearance and uncertainty. Its producers say the story is also a collective effort to preserve memory, with the experiences of Biru Laut’s family carrying significance beyond the historical events depicted.

JCI Rebounds as Investors Welcome BI’s Decision to Hold Its Policy Rate

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) rebounded after investors welcomed Bank Indonesia’s decision to keep its policy rate at 5.75 per cent, alongside bargain-hunting and market reforms. Analysts cautioned that the recovery remains fragile amid concerns over MSCI’s review of Indonesia’s market classification, rupiah stability and the need for sustained foreign buying and improved market transparency.

Data Centres Flood Indonesia’s Industrial Parks, with Microsoft the Biggest Buyer

Data-centre companies accounted for 85.35% of PT Puradelta Lestari’s (DMAS) major-buyer land sales through September 2026, led by Microsoft Operations Indonesia at Rp795.96 billion. The company said data-centre demand drove industrial land sales and helped lift its nine-month operating revenue to Rp2.65 trillion, nearly 3.4 times the year-earlier level.

Customs Destroys 11 Million Illegal Cigarettes Worth Rp23.1 Billion in East Nusa Tenggara

Customs officials and prosecutors have destroyed 11 million cigarettes bearing counterfeit excise stamps, seized from a warehouse in North Central Timor in December 2025. Three Chinese nationals were each sentenced to three years in prison in connection with the case; the seized goods were valued at Rp23.1 billion, with excise duties amounting to Rp8.734 billion.

Prabowo to Hold Plenary Cabinet Meeting This Afternoon

President Prabowo Subianto is scheduled to chair a plenary cabinet meeting at the Presidential Palace complex in Jakarta, with ministers and agency heads arriving from around 2pm. The meeting, set for 3pm, is expected to review the first two years of the Prabowo-Gibran administration; the industry minister said he had prepared a report for the President.

Police Shooting Police Case: Metro Police Apply Premeditated Murder Charge

Jakarta Metro Police have charged Bharada Andika Rahmadani with premeditated murder over the fatal shooting of his junior colleague, Bharatu Laurentius Valdo Fernandez Lawai. Investigators say they are still examining the motive, possible bullying and any involvement by others, while a separate police professional-standards process is also under way.

Jakarta MRT to Serve Passengers from 3am to Support JRF 2026

Jakarta MRT will extend its operating hours on 24–25 October 2026, opening from 3am to support travel to the myBCA Jakarta Running Festival. It also plans free rides for festival participants and projects that about 32,608 of the event’s roughly 37,000 participants will use the service.

After KMP Batumandi Fire, Crews Cool the Vessel Before Investigating the Cause

Eight vessels from the joint search-and-rescue team continued cooling the passenger ship KMP Batumandi with water cannons in the waters off Merak Port after a fire on Tuesday. Authorities have yet to establish the cause and are investigating.

Prabowo Agrees to Luhut’s Proposal to Change the Definition of Corruption; Here Is the Law Minister’s Response

Law Minister Supratman Andi Agtas said a proposal to redefine corruption would be discussed later and that the government was awaiting President Prabowo Subianto’s instructions. National Economic Council chair Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan said Prabowo had agreed with the council’s study, which would shift the focus from state losses to bribery, citing the UN Convention against Corruption.

IGIP Enables 19 Young People from Sambalagi and Werea to Learn Mandarin in China

International Green Industrial Park (IGIP) has sent 19 young people from two villages in Morowali, Central Sulawesi, to China for a two-month training programme that includes Mandarin lessons and visits to industrial facilities. The initiative aims to build local skills and broaden career prospects, while introducing participants to circular-economy practices and new-energy materials industries.

PSIS Supporters Banned from Six Laskar Mahesa Jenar Away Matches after Ciamis Incident

PSSI’s Disciplinary Committee has banned PSIS Semarang from bringing away supporters to six matches and fined the club Rp15 million following disturbances around its match against PSGC Ciamis. The sanctions also include a Rp20 million fine for PSGC, while I.League says repeat offences could lead to harsher penalties, including points deductions or lifetime stadium bans for individual supporters.

DDMF: Strategic investment must encompass long-term economic resilience

Danantara Development Management Fund (DDMF) says strategic investment should be assessed by its lasting development impact, including productive capacity, quality jobs, industrial innovation and regional equity—not solely financial returns. The fund is developing a modelling framework to trace these effects over time and says catalytic capital can help reduce risk and attract private and institutional investment while safeguarding macroeconomic sustainability.

Ministers Arrive at Palace for Plenary Cabinet Meeting

President Prabowo Subianto is holding a plenary cabinet meeting, with ministers and members of the Presidential Advisory Council arriving at the palace. The meeting comes one day after the Prabowo-Gibran administration marked two years in office, although officials said they did not yet know whether it would include a performance review.

French Fighter Jet Crashes During Training Exercise, Killing One Crew Member

A French Mirage 2000D crashed during a training flight near Nancy, killing at least one crew member while another remains missing. The cause is unknown, and the incident renews attention on the aircraft’s safety record as France plans to keep the fleet in service into the 2030s.

Kenya Confirms Ninth Ebola Case, All Linked to One Cluster

Kenya has confirmed a ninth Ebola case, bringing the country’s total to nine, including one death; all cases remain linked to a single cluster, with no evidence of wider transmission. Authorities have expanded contact tracing and medical preparedness, but have not imposed restrictions on travel, trade or public activities.

Syarikat Islam Ready to Challenge Capitalism with a Constitutional Economy

Syarikat Islam has elected Cooperatives Minister Ferry Juliantono as its president for 2026–2031 and says it will pursue an economic model grounded in Indonesia’s Constitution to counter liberal capitalism. Its priorities include economic outreach through mosque cooperatives and alignment with the government’s Merah Putih village and urban-ward cooperatives programme.

Wildfire Spreads to Three Villages on the Slopes of Mount Merbabu

A forest and land fire spread across 2.55 hectares on the slopes of Mount Merbabu, affecting three villages and urban wards in Boyolali Regency, Central Java. Local disaster officials, volunteers and residents are working to extinguish the blaze, while the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) is coordinating and monitoring the response.

Metro Jaya Police Hunt Owners of Tramadol Factories in Sukoharjo

Metro Jaya Police have arrested 16 people accused of operating two illegal factories producing Tramadol and Trihexyphenidyl in Sukoharjo, Central Java, and are searching for two alleged owners and controllers. The case followed a customs alert about a shipment of Tramadol in North Jakarta; those arrested face penalties of up to 12 years in prison and a fine of Rp5 billion.

Ministers and Rocky Gerung Arrive at Palace for Cabinet Meeting

Government ministers, deputy ministers, agency chiefs and Presidential Advisory Council members arrived at the Jakarta Presidential Palace for a plenary cabinet meeting led by President Prabowo Subianto. The meeting is expected to review the administration’s first two years and discuss strategic issues and government programmes, as the Red and White Cabinet marks its second anniversary.

Deputy Education Minister stresses the importance of mental preparedness in competitions

Deputy Minister for Primary and Secondary Education Fajar Riza Ul Haq has urged students to approach competitions with mental resilience and honesty, saying success should be measured by personal growth as well as medals. He said competitions can build confidence, communication and critical-thinking skills, and benefit participants regardless of whether they win an award.

Breaking: Fighter Jet Crashes During Training, Pilot Killed and Navigator Missing

A French Air Force Mirage 2000D crashed during a training flight in north-eastern France, killing at least one crew member while another remains missing. The accident occurred near Nancy; the crash comes as France has completed a modernisation programme for the aircraft and plans to keep them in service into the 2030s.

Zelensky Accuses Trump of Pressuring Ukraine to Surrender as Patriot Missiles Are Held Up

Ukraine says its stock of Patriot interceptors is critically low as Russia intensifies attacks on cities and energy infrastructure, while Washington has yet to approve a proposed transfer from allied countries. President Volodymyr Zelensky accused Donald Trump’s administration of pressuring Kyiv towards an unfavourable settlement, although US Secretary of State Marco Rubio denied any deliberate political effort to harm Ukraine and cited competing defence needs.

Government Freezes Permits of Six Companies Blamed for Forest and Land Fires in Kalimantan

The Forestry Ministry has frozen the permits of six companies in Central Kalimantan and ordered ecosystem-restoration measures over fires affecting their concessions. The action brings the number of corporations facing administrative sanctions and restoration orders to 32, while the ministry says criminal proceedings remain possible if evidence warrants them.

To Boost Lending, Bank Indonesia Injects Rp458.5 Trillion in Liquidity into Banks

Banks had received Rp458.5 trillion in incentives under Bank Indonesia’s Macroprudential Liquidity Incentive (KLM) policy by the first week of October 2026, with most allocated to financing aimed at supporting the real economy. From 1 December, BI will raise the maximum incentive to 5% of third-party funds, including support for job-creating sectors and deeper money-market liquidity redistribution.

Local Food Foodpreneur School Brings Transmigration Transformation to Life

A programme in the Klamono-Segun Transmigration Area is helping 50 farmers’ wives turn locally grown produce into processed foods, in line with the government’s aim to create lasting economic benefits in transmigration regions. The University of Brawijaya team is providing production, food-safety, business licensing and marketing guidance, with participants hoping to supply local supermarkets and souvenir shops in Raja Ampat.

BGN transforms programme governance through MBG 2.0 revolution

Indonesia’s National Nutrition Agency (BGN) says it is reshaping the Free Nutritious Meals programme, shifting its focus beyond reach to food safety, nutritional standards and accurate targeting. Measures include requiring hygiene and sanitation certificates for service units, updating cooperation agreements and beneficiary data, and piloting buffet-style meals at 66 units across 10 provinces.

Sompo Syariah Begins Operations as the First Sharia Entity in Sompo Group’s History

Sompo Indonesia has launched Sompo Syariah as a standalone Islamic general insurer, the first such entity in Sompo Group’s operations worldwide. The company aims to expand access to Sharia-compliant protection, as industry assets reached Rp10.8 trillion in the first quarter of 2026, up 13.77 per cent year on year.

Danantara: Technology roadmaps must translate into impactful investment

Danantara Indonesia says the country must turn its existing technology roadmaps into commercially viable, scalable investments with real users and lasting national benefits. It sees government and state-owned enterprises as potential first buyers of domestic technology, while a new partnership aims to train up to 15,000 Indonesians in chip design.

Hermanto Tanoko’s Son Buys Another 1 Million AVIA Shares

Robert Christian Tanoko, a director of Avia Avian, bought 1,034,900 shares in the company in two transactions totalling about Rp322.8 million. The purchases lifted his voting stake from 2.3205% to 2.3221%, and were recorded as an investment.

Police Name Driver Who Fatally Hit Junior High School Student in South Jakarta as Suspect

Jakarta police have named the driver of a Mitsubishi Pajero involved in a fatal collision in Mampang Prapatan as a suspect. Police said a urine test found no evidence of drug use; the crash also involved two other cars and killed a pedestrian at the scene.

NVIDIA and ITB encourage students to develop AI skills

NVIDIA Indonesia and the Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB) are working to help students build AI skills and develop solutions, with industry support providing access to technology and computing resources. ITB is also preparing campus rules for AI use and adapting teaching and assessment to ensure the technology supports learning while preserving critical thinking.

SAPPE showcases product innovations at SIAL Paris 2026

Thai beverage company SAPPE is presenting new Mogu Mogu products, including zero-sugar drinks, jelly, gummies, candy and iced tea, alongside offerings from its other brands at SIAL Paris 2026. The exhibition brings together global manufacturers and buyers, giving SAPPE an opportunity to promote its portfolio and pursue international business partnerships.

North Sumatra Once Again Blanketed by Smoke from Fires Elsewhere

Smoke from forest and land fires in Kalimantan and South Sumatra has spread across North Sumatra, although satellite monitoring found no moderate-category hotspots in the province. Air quality was moderate in several areas, while visibility fell to 1–5 kilometres and could remain reduced for up to three days, prompting safety advice for residents and coordination among local authorities.

AI Answers Name Different Banks First in 43% of Comparisons, Study Finds

A PRecious Communications study of 2,740 AI and search responses across six Southeast Asian markets found that the first bank named changed in 43% of comparable answers, while business-banking responses cited 34% more banks than consumer-banking answers. The findings highlight why banks and communications teams cannot rely on one AI platform or a single visibility score to assess brand presence, with results varying by market, query and language.

Indonesian Minister Seeks Ecosystem Recovery Through Legal Action

Environment Minister Jumhur said environmental justice requires scientific evidence and recovery-focused enforcement, not court rulings alone. The government has sued six companies over alleged environmental damage affecting more than 2,500 hectares in North Sumatra, seeking Rp4.8 trillion in compensation, while senior judicial officials called for restoration and stronger safeguards for affected communities.

CIMB Niaga (BNGA) Reportedly Weighing Delisting from the IDX: Here’s Why

CIMB Group is reportedly exploring delisting its Indonesian subsidiary, CIMB Niaga, on the view that its shares are undervalued and as part of a strategic review that includes privatisation. Analysts estimate a buyout at current prices would cost Rp2.95 trillion, rising to Rp3.84 trillion with a 30% premium, while CIMB has not confirmed the reports and previously reiterated its long-term commitment to Indonesia.

Beyond 200MP: Galaxy S26 Ultra Offers Two Optical Zoom Options for Different Perspectives

Samsung’s Galaxy S26 Ultra combines a 200MP main camera with 3x and 5x optical zoom telephoto lenses, offering users a wider choice of perspectives alongside ultra-wide photography. The promotional article also highlights Quick Share compatibility and a Galaxy Upgrade Festival running until 31 October 2026, with trade-in prices starting at around Rp11 million and benefits of up to Rp3.5 million.

WCCE 2026 to boost inclusive creative economy collaboration, says minister

Indonesia’s Creative Economy Minister Teuku Riefky Harsya says WCCE 2026 will promote international collaboration and more equitable access to opportunities in the creative economy. The conference will focus on technology and AI, sustainable practices and intellectual property protection, with discussions aimed at turning shared commitments into action.

Former Indonesian Finance Minister Reveals Transfer Pricing and Under-invoicing in Mining

Former finance minister Fuad Bawazier says transfer pricing, under-invoicing and the manipulation of export volumes and commodity prices are causing foreign-exchange outflows and reducing state revenue from mining. He also alleges widespread unlicensed mining, estimating that there may be around 25,000 illegal mining sites, and calls for consistent law enforcement and stronger state control over the sector.

TransNusa Marks Milestone with Launch of Maiden Melbourne–Bali Flight

TransNusa has launched a daily Melbourne–Bali service, positioning Bali as a transit hub for Australian travellers and connecting them to Indonesian destinations and regional Asian cities. The airline says the route builds on its rapid growth in Australia, including a 20 per cent market share in Perth, and is offering introductory fares from AUD299.

PP Infrastruktur Reviews Water Uptake at Pekanbaru Water Supply System

PT PP Infrastruktur is reviewing operations at the Pekanbaru drinking-water system as the volume absorbed by PDAM Tirta Siak remains below PT PP Tirta Madani’s production capacity. The shareholder says it will pursue better coordination, lower water losses and operational efficiencies while maintaining service quality, as the company prepares for a stated termination phase amid wider state-owned enterprise transformation.

Mineral Downstreaming Becomes a Key Pillar of Indonesia’s Economic Strategy

Mineral downstreaming is a major driver of investment, potentially accounting for 30% of Indonesia’s total investment, according to Investment Minister Rosan Perkasa Roeslani. The strategy aims to build integrated domestic value chains—from mining and processing to batteries, electric vehicles and recycling—reducing reliance on raw-material exports and strengthening the national industrial base.

Persija Fans Banned from Away Matches for Half a Season After Disorder

PSSI’s Disciplinary Committee has barred Persija Jakarta from taking away supporters to six matches and fined the club Rp30 million following disorder during its match against Persita Tangerang. The sanctions also include penalties for Persita and The Jakmania, with I.League warning that repeat incidents could prompt tougher measures, including wider restrictions on supporters.

Manpower Ministry: 2027 Minimum Wage to Take Inflation and Economic Growth into Account

The Manpower Ministry says regional minimum wages for 2027 must reflect inflation, economic growth, living costs, local labour conditions and businesses’ ability to pay, rather than follow a uniform national increase. The Indonesian Trade Union Confederation has proposed a 7.5–9.5 per cent rise, while the ministry says the final amount must follow the applicable formula and official regional data.

BRIN and TNI prepare artificial rain equipment for wildfire response

BRIN and the Indonesian Air Force are checking artificial rain consoles before arranging repairs in Bandung, with the aim of restoring them for weather-modification operations. The equipment is expected to support responses to forest and land fires, highlighting efforts to maintain and reuse existing technology for disaster management.

KPK Sends Letter to Military Chief, Confirms Alleged TNI Involvement in BNPB Corruption Case

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) says it has written to the TNI commander about allegations that an active-duty soldier was involved in corruption linked to disaster-response funds at the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB). The commission says the alleged conduct concerns procurement contracts and possible conflicts of interest or bribery, while withholding the soldier’s identity and expecting the TNI Military Police to follow up.

BI Steps Up Measures to Defend the Rupiah Against the US Dollar, Expanding Hedging Incentives

Bank Indonesia is strengthening foreign-exchange interventions and raising incentives for hedging transactions as the rupiah faces pressure from global conditions and a stronger US dollar. It is also extending incentives for local-currency transactions with partner countries to diversify international trade and investment away from reliance on the dollar.

BI Unveils Measures to Boost Bank Lending

Bank Indonesia will raise its Macroprudential Liquidity Incentive (KLM) to 5% to encourage lending and financing, particularly to businesses that support job creation. The strengthened incentives take effect on 1 December 2026, while other macroprudential requirements—including the intermediation ratio and liquidity buffers—will remain in place.

CropLife Asia welcomes new BASF, Corteva and FMC representatives to board

CropLife Asia has appointed Sergi Vizoso-Sansano of BASF, Subroto Geed of Corteva and Sebastià Pons of FMC to its board, replacing their respective predecessors. The changes coincide with Paul Luxton of Syngenta becoming the association’s president, as it continues to represent the plant science industry and promote agricultural innovation across Asia.

Cabinet Meeting: Ministers and Agency Heads Begin Arriving at the Palace

President Prabowo Subianto is due to chair a plenary cabinet meeting at the Presidential Palace complex in Jakarta, with ministers and agency heads arriving ahead of the session. Deputy Coordinating Minister Viva Yoga Mauladi said the meeting will coordinate, integrate and monitor government programmes across ministries and agencies.

Warning: These LQ45 Giants Have Low Valuations

Indonesian shares have fallen sharply amid uncertainty over MSCI’s market-classification review, but several large-cap LQ45 constituents still trade at low price-to-earnings and price-to-book ratios. Bank Tabungan Negara and Indah Kiat Pulp & Paper have the lowest PER and PBV respectively, while Alamtri Resources and Bank Negara Indonesia offer the highest dividend yields in the group; low ratios alone, however, do not prove that a share is undervalued.

Sukoharjo Tramadol Factory Had Been Operating Since 2025, Turnover Reached Rp3 Billion

Police say two illegal factories in Sukoharjo producing Tramadol and Trihexyphenidyl had been operating since 2025 and July 2026, respectively. Sixteen people were arrested and 7.8 million tablets seized; one factory was reported to generate daily turnover of Rp2 billion to Rp3 billion.

Worker in Jimbaran Killed by Sheets of Glass Falling from Pickup Truck

A worker identified as SE died after eight sheets of glass fell on him while he was helping transfer the load between vehicles in Jimbaran, Bali. Police believe the glass toppled because the pickup was unbalanced, with the sheets stacked on its right side.

BI: Global Economic Outlook Remains Weak, Uncertainty Still High

Bank Indonesia expects global growth to remain weak at around 3 per cent in 2026, with inflation at about 4.6 per cent and financial-market uncertainty elevated amid intensifying Middle East tensions. Indonesia’s economy is expected to remain resilient, supported by government stimulus, improving business and consumer confidence, investment and exports, with growth forecast at 4.9–5.7 per cent in 2026.

Banyuwangi Holds Santri Forum to Gather Aspirations of Pesantren Students

Banyuwangi Regency has held its first Rembug Santri forum, bringing together 50 students from 15 Islamic boarding schools to share concerns and proposals with local officials. Their recommendations include digital skills training, clearer rules for sound-system events, and stronger prevention of bullying and violence in pesantren, which the regency says will inform future policies and programmes.

Jakarta to Conduct Weather Modification Ahead of Running Festival and Ye Concert

Jakarta’s provincial government plans weather-modification operations on 22–23 October to improve air quality and support the Jakarta Running Festival and a Ye concert on 24–25 October. Governor Pramono Anung said the events are expected to boost the capital’s economy, so the city will seek to ensure conditions are safe and comfortable for participants and concertgoers.

Bahlil Notes That No Golkar Chairman Has Ever Become President of Indonesia

Golkar chairman Bahlil Lahadalia highlighted that no leader of the party has gone on to become president, although Sudharmono served as vice-president from 1988 to 1993 after leading Golkar. He said the party’s purpose is to advance social welfare and expand its parliamentary representation, rather than simply to secure the presidency for its chairman.

No-Promotion Policy for Primary to Senior High School Students to Return; House Commission X Raises Concerns

Commission X of Indonesia’s House of Representatives supports reinstating the policy requiring students who do not meet minimum learning standards to repeat a year, planned for the 2027/2028 academic year. Lawmaker MY Esti Wijayanti says it could strengthen learning motivation and basic literacy, but urges attention to students’ psychological wellbeing, targeted enrichment and suitable textbooks; implementing rules are still being prepared.

Asset Tokenisation Could Broaden Access to Investment

Asset tokenisation could widen access to digital investment by allowing investors to buy fractional exposure to assets, but it does not remove the underlying risks. The Financial Services Authority (OJK) is preparing rules covering governance, offerings and consumer protection, while investors are urged to scrutinise each product’s legal rights, transparency and liquidity.

NVIDIA and ITB Encourage Students to Develop AI Talent

NVIDIA and the Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB) are working together to help students build AI skills and develop solutions for industry and society. ITB says universities must adapt teaching and assessment to AI while preserving critical thinking, and is drafting campus rules to guide responsible use of the technology.

Human Rights Minister Says Development Must Be Felt by the People

Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai said development should be judged by tangible improvements in people’s lives, including access to education, healthcare, worker protections and public services. At the 2026 National Human Rights Development Planning Conference, he called for human rights priorities to shape policy, budgets and services, and for progress to be measured by concrete outcomes, particularly for vulnerable and underserved communities.

Bamsoet Urges Universities to Produce Graduates Who Create Jobs

Wantimpres member Bambang Soesatyo says universities should equip students with technological skills, entrepreneurial ability and adaptability to AI so they can create jobs rather than merely seek them. He also highlighted Unperba’s new degree programmes and scholarship scheme for students from disadvantaged backgrounds, arguing that higher education should support local economic development and social mobility.

North Korea tells border troops to take ‘resolute action’ if South threatens their safety

North Korea has instructed troops stationed at its border with South Korea to take “prompt and resolute action” if they believe their safety is threatened, as tensions between the two sides intensify. The warning follows Seoul’s pledge to respond firmly to further provocations and comes amid Pyongyang’s ongoing fortification of the border.

Forestry Minister Says Six Companies Involved in Forest Fires Have Been Suspended

Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni says the ministry has suspended six companies over forest and land fires in Central Kalimantan, ordering them to restore the affected forest ecosystem. The listed concessions include burned areas ranging from 193 to 4,803 hectares; Antoni said enforcement should apply to corporations as well as small farmers.

Kodam Jaya Denies Abandoned Electric Motorbikes in Bekasi Belong to the Military

Kodam Jaya has denied that electric motorbikes seen parked in an open lot in Bekasi belong to the Indonesian military, saying checks found no matching vehicles in its units. The National Nutrition Agency and the Attorney General’s Office have also said the bikes are not theirs and are unrelated to the agency’s 2025 procurement or the associated corruption case evidence.

Singapore travellers can now use DBS PayLah! in Taiwan

DBS PayLah! users can now make QR-code payments at more than 250,000 participating merchants in Taiwan, with the app displaying the exchange rate and Singapore-dollar amount before payment. The launch extends DBS’s cross-border QR payment links and is part of a wider Singapore–Taiwan initiative, with broader merchant coverage and reciprocal payments planned for 2027.

Zero-Down-Payment Home and Vehicle Loans Extended Until 2027

Bank Indonesia has extended its 100% loan-to-value and financing-to-value facility for property lending, and a minimum zero down-payment requirement for new motor vehicles, through 31 December 2027. The measures apply from 1 January 2027 and are subject to eligibility criteria for banks providing property loans.

Malaysia Respects Other Countries’ Dignity and Sovereignty Amid Haze Issue

Malaysia says it will respect Indonesia’s sovereignty while defending Malaysians’ rights in response to transboundary haze pollution. Its response combines regional diplomacy, offers of operational assistance to Indonesia, and plans for longer-term cooperation on fire prevention and climate issues.

Bali lawmaker calls for greater protection for tourism workers

Bali lawmaker I Nyoman Parta has called for stronger legal protections for tourism workers employed as casual daily labourers for extended periods, noting that regulations require their status to convert to permanent employment after specified work patterns. He also urged policymakers to consider Bali’s high living costs when setting the 2027 provincial minimum wage, arguing that tourism growth should be matched by improved worker welfare and protection of local culture.

Major General Putra Widiastawa: The Man from Singaraja Now Leading Udayana Regional Military Command

Major General Putra Widiastawa Dwi Agung Susilo has formally taken up the post of commander of the IX/Udayana Regional Military Command, replacing Major General Piek Budyakto, who will lead the V/Brawijaya command. The Bali-born officer has served in a range of command and staff roles, including deployments in several operational areas; officials say his appointment is expected to ensure leadership continuity and strengthen the command’s work.

PDI-P Expels Klaten Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo After He Is Named a KPK Suspect

The Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P) says it has expelled Klaten Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo after the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) named him a suspect in an alleged bribery and gratification case. The party says it had previously summoned and warned him; the KPK has also named two other people as suspects and detained all three for an initial 20 days.

Jakarta Public Transport Users Reach 368 Million by September 2026, Up 10.8%

Jakarta recorded 368.4 million passenger trips on Transjakarta, MRT Jakarta and LRT Jakarta through September 2026, an increase of 10.8% on the previous period. Governor Pramono Anung attributed the growth to improved connectivity and expanding Transjabodetabek services, and said the city would consider adding routes to link Jakarta with surrounding areas.

ITS Expert Warns of Health Risks from Heatwaves

Health experts at Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember (ITS) warn that heatwaves can cause severe dehydration, skin damage and mental-health effects, with older people and those with pre-existing conditions particularly vulnerable. They recommend limiting heat exposure, staying hydrated, maintaining skin and body hygiene, and using sunscreen as extreme weather becomes more common amid climate change.

Bandung Mayor Introduces CAFEO 44 Delegates to the City’s History and Technology

Bandung Mayor Muhammad Farhan outlined the city’s development through infrastructure, technical education and industry to engineering delegates attending the 44th Conference of the ASEAN Federation of Engineering Organisations. He stressed that engineers and innovation will be vital in applying science and technology to meet future challenges amid increasingly complex, borderless digital competition.

Bank Indonesia Holds Benchmark Interest Rate at 5.75 Per Cent

Bank Indonesia has kept its benchmark rate at 5.75 per cent, while raising the Deposit Facility rate to 5 per cent, as it seeks to stabilise the rupiah amid persistent external pressures. The central bank will also strengthen incentives for foreign-exchange hedging and maintain accommodative macroprudential and payment-system policies to support lending and sustainable economic growth.

Pramono Flags DKI Jakarta’s 54.39% Budget Spending: ‘Don’t Leave It Until Year-End’

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has urged regional agencies to speed up budgeted activities after spending reached only 54.39% of the 2026 regional budget allocation by 30 September. He called for earlier preparation to prevent year-end spending bunching, while stressing that budget transparency and effectiveness should be judged by their impact on public services and the city’s development.

Boxing ring beneath Kampung Melayu flyover in East Jakarta nearly complete

East Jakarta’s municipal administration says a boxing facility beneath the Kampung Melayu flyover is nearly ready, with two rings and eight punching bags already installed. The city plans to offer free, scheduled training and work with boxing organisations to provide coaching, turning underused space into a community sports and youth development hub.

Lebanon Denies Israeli Allegations Over Hezbollah Disarmament

Lebanon’s army has rejected Israeli accusations that it failed to disarm Hezbollah and dismantle its military infrastructure south of the Litani River, saying its operations were documented by the ceasefire monitoring committee. The dispute comes amid continued Israeli attacks and occupation in Lebanon, despite agreements that provide for Israeli withdrawal and the deployment of Lebanese forces.

62 Couples at Central Java Mass Wedding Receive Business Capital and Honeymoon

A mass wedding in Central Java brought together 62 couples and offered support extending beyond the ceremony, including business start-up capital and a honeymoon. Organisers and provincial officials said the initiative aims to ease access to legally recognised marriage, strengthen families and encourage their economic independence, with plans to take the programme to Maluku for 500 couples.

Indonesia’s QRIS to Expand to Timor-Leste and Hong Kong, with Trials Starting in Q4 2026

Bank Indonesia plans to begin sandbox trials for cross-border QRIS payment links with Timor-Leste and Hong Kong in the fourth quarter of 2026. The initiative supports the central bank’s digital payments blueprint and is intended to make cross-border transactions easier for consumers and businesses.

Government to Discount Train, Plane and Ship Fares During Christmas and New Year Holidays

The government plans to repeat transport fare discounts for the 2026/2027 Christmas and New Year holiday period, modelled on incentives offered during Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr. It also expects to provide food aid and wage subsidies in the fourth quarter of 2026, with overall budget-funded stimulus of about Rp31 trillion, while some transport discounts will be covered by state-owned enterprises.

RoboParty launches RP1 in Southeast Asia, expanding open robotics for education and research

RoboParty has launched RP1, a full-stack open-source humanoid platform, in Southeast Asia to support advanced robotics and embodied AI research, complementing its DIY RPO kit for education and early-stage development. The two platforms offer universities and researchers adaptable options, with RP1 providing integrated tools and established motion capabilities intended to help teams focus on more complex research.

Airlangga Targets 17.6 Million Tourist Visits Through Tourism Special Economic Zones

Indonesia is targeting 16–17.6 million international tourist arrivals in 2026, supported by six tourism Special Economic Zones (SEZs), with foreign-exchange earnings projected at US$24 billion. Airlangga Hartarto said achieving the goal will require stronger promotion, tourism skills and transport links; cumulative investment across all 25 SEZs has reached Rp382.1 trillion.

Silent on Gibran’s Diploma Controversy, PDI-P Politician Slams Parliament: ‘The Oath Is to God, Not to Humans’

PDI-P lawmaker Komarudin Watubun criticised Parliament for remaining silent over questions about Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s diploma and urged MPs to consider an inquiry. He said scrutiny of possible constitutional or legal breaches was a duty of all lawmakers, while stressing that he was speaking individually and that any formal move by his party would require careful political consideration.

Fire-Damaged KMP Batumandi in Sunda Strait to Be Towed to Bojonegara

KMP Batumandi, which caught fire near Merak Port in Banten, remains in the process of being cooled before it is towed to a shipyard in Bojonegara for further handling. All 460 passengers and crew were evacuated safely, although 11 people required further medical treatment.

Prosecutors Ask Court to Reject Nurman Herin’s Objection in Former Jampidsus Money-Laundering Case

Prosecutors have urged the Central Jakarta Corruption Court to reject Nurman Herin’s objection to the indictment and proceed to the evidentiary stage. They say the indictment clearly sets out his alleged role alongside former Jampidsus Febrie Adriansyah and two others, and that the objections raised do not provide grounds to invalidate it. Nurman is accused of money laundering involving Rp346.7 billion and US$440,990.

Unhas and Nine Universities from Five Countries Join Forces to Improve Education

Hasanuddin University (Unhas) has signed nine memoranda of understanding with universities in Türkiye, the Philippines, Taiwan, Malaysia and Australia to strengthen education and academic cooperation. The agreements could lead to student exchanges, further study and double-degree programmes, as well as joint research and publications, but their implementation will depend on follow-up by faculties and study programmes.

Pramono: Jakarta’s Poverty Rate Falls Below 4% for the First Time

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo says the capital’s poverty rate fell to 3.96% in March 2026, the first time it has dipped below 4%. He also reported improvements in unemployment and labour-force participation, and highlighted provincial vocational training programmes linking trainees with 214 companies and preparing workers for overseas jobs.

Israeli Minister Boasts of Gaza’s Destruction and Mocks Palestinians

Israel’s National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has faced renewed criticism after posting an AI-generated campaign video depicting Gaza as a ruined city in 2030 and mocking Palestinians who remain there. The video comes ahead of Israel’s 27 October legislative election, with polls showing neither Netanyahu’s coalition nor the opposition bloc close to the 61 seats needed for a parliamentary majority.

BI Forecasts Current Account Deficit of 1.6–2.4% in 2026

Bank Indonesia expects Indonesia’s current account deficit to remain between 1.6% and 2.4% of GDP in 2026, while warning that external resilience needs strengthening. The current account deficit widened to US$12.5 billion in the second quarter of 2026, or 3.3% of GDP, even as the overall balance of payments deficit narrowed sharply from the previous quarter.

92 Cisarua Students Taken to Hospital in Suspected Food Poisoning Case

Ninety-two students at a state junior high school in Cisarua, Bogor Regency, were taken to hospital after suspected food poisoning following a Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) meal. The cause has not been confirmed, and officials said they were awaiting the hospital doctors’ assessment while prioritising the students’ safety.

Batam Transport Agency to Procure 10 Electric Minibuses for Feeder Services in 2027

Batam’s transport agency plans to procure 10 electric minibuses for Trans Batam feeder services on four routes in Sekupang and Batu Aji, with operations targeted to begin in May 2027, subject to budget approval. The programme will use a buy-the-service model and is part of a broader expansion that also includes five additional buses and charging infrastructure.

Police investigate case of domestic worker accused of molesting employer’s child with special needs in East Jakarta

Jakarta police are investigating allegations that a domestic worker sexually abused her employer’s five-year-old son, who has special needs, in East Jakarta. The child’s mother first reported the case to East Jakarta Police, withdrew the complaint the following day and then reported it to Metro Jaya Police, which is now examining evidence and witnesses.

Government Ramps Up Special Economic Zone Projects; Manpower Minister Outlines Benefits for Indonesia’s Workforce

Manpower Minister Yassierli hopes special economic zones (SEZs) will become hubs for vocational training and broader recruitment, helping develop a skilled Indonesian workforce. The government is proposing to integrate national apprenticeships and vocational training with education, start-up and MSME support into an ecosystem that can serve as a “talent engine” for future industry-specific skills and experience.

East Kalimantan Governor’s Aide Apologises After Viral Video Shows Him Blocking Student Protesters

East Kalimantan Governor Rudy Mas’ud’s aide, Asky Rizal Toding, has apologised after a video showed him confronting students during a protest in Samarinda. Toding acknowledged his conduct was wrong, said he acted spontaneously without instructions, and pledged not to repeat it.

BI Cuts Reserve Requirements to 7% for Conventional Banks and 5.5% for Islamic Banks

Bank Indonesia will cut reserve requirements in two stages from November 2026, lowering the rate for conventional banks to 7% and for Islamic banks and Islamic business units to 5.5%. The move is intended to improve monetary policy effectiveness, keep inflation in check and strengthen liquidity, alongside a reduction in the KLM incentive rate.

Food & Hospitality Asia 2027 to Showcase New Industry Platforms and Competitions

Informa Markets says FHA 2027 will expand its exhibition with new zones for food manufacturing, travel catering and private-label products, building on the launch of IndusFood Asia at the 2026 event. The programme will also feature culinary festivals, ingredient and pizza-and-pasta competitions, and beverage experiences, aiming to promote industry collaboration, innovation and business opportunities across the global food and hospitality sectors.

BI-Rate Holds at 5.75%, Deposit Facility Rate Rises to 5%

Bank Indonesia has kept its benchmark BI-Rate at 5.75 per cent while raising the deposit facility rate by 25 basis points to 5 per cent; the lending facility rate remains at 6.5 per cent. Governor Destry Damayanti said the move, alongside stronger incentives for DNDF hedging instruments, is intended to attract foreign capital, stabilise the rupiah and support money- and foreign-exchange-market development amid stronger external pressures.

Airlangga Says Special Economic Zone Development Could Help Achieve 8% Growth

Coordinating Economic Affairs Minister Airlangga Hartarto says expanding special economic zones (SEZs) could help Indonesia reach its 8 per cent economic growth target, citing their lower investment inefficiency ratio than the national average. Indonesia has far less SEZ land than Vietnam and Malaysia, while investment in the zones has reached Rp382.1 trillion since 2012.

Metro Jakarta Police Deny Arresting Six Greenpeace Activists

Metro Jakarta Police say six Greenpeace Indonesia activists were taken to the force’s headquarters for medical treatment after becoming weak and dizzy while climbing down from the Welcome Statue, not arrested. The activists were evacuated after displaying a banner at Jakarta’s Hotel Indonesia Roundabout, with police saying their priority was safeguarding their physical and mental wellbeing.

Why Destry Kept BI Rate at 5.75% in October 2026

Bank Indonesia held its benchmark rate at 5.75% while raising the deposit facility rate to 5%, citing the need to stabilise the rupiah amid external pressures and keep inflation under control. The central bank is also strengthening incentives and hedging instruments to attract foreign capital and deepen domestic money and foreign-exchange markets.

KPK Probes Links Between ATR/BPN Corruption Case and Alleged Vote-Buying at NU Congress

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is investigating whether Rp250 million returned by the Nias branch of Nahdlatul Ulama is connected to the organisation’s 35th Congress and a bribery case involving the Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency (ATR/BPN). The money has been seized while investigators assess its relevance as evidence; separately, the KPK has seized Rp106.3 billion and named eight suspects in the land-rights bribery case.

Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten and His Partner Expect a Child Through Surrogacy

Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten and his partner, Nicolás Keenan, say they are expecting a child through surrogacy, with the baby due in 2027. They thanked the egg donor and surrogate, noting that the arrangement is non-commercial and that both women are acquaintances of the couple.

Transport Minister Orders Swift Response to KMP Batumandi Fire

Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi has ordered a rapid, co-ordinated response after passenger ferry KMP Batumandi caught fire in the Merak approach channel, with all passengers and crew evacuated safely. The cause is being investigated by the National Transportation Safety Committee and police, while the ministry says the findings will inform safety improvements and efforts to prevent similar incidents.

France Extends Curfews in Several Cities Following Demonstrations

Authorities in Paris, Lyon and Marseille have extended or introduced curfews after violence during demonstrations at the weekend, with Toulouse set to impose restrictions later this week. The measures come after around 550,000 people took part in 110 demonstrations across France, in which about 400 people were arrested; a Ligue 2 match has also been postponed amid plans for further protests.

DSN MUI Calls for Formation of Danantara Syariah: Latest Progress

The National Sharia Council of the Indonesian Ulema Council (DSN MUI) says discussions are under way to establish Danantara Syariah as a holding company for Sharia-compliant businesses under state investment agency Danantara. The proposal still needs to be finalised and approved, potentially through a presidential decree, with DSN MUI hoping it could be implemented next year.

On Forest and Land Fires, Minister Pigai Says Environmental Damage Is Caused by Human Activity

Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai says environmental damage, including forest and land fires, results from human actions and stresses the need to respect nature and protect ecosystems. He called for greater public awareness of the link between human rights and the environment, noting that people ultimately bear the consequences when nature is neglected.

Minister targets Rp150tn in foreign-exchange savings through health SEZs

Indonesia aims to save Rp150 trillion in foreign exchange by encouraging patients to seek treatment in domestic health special economic zones, instead of travelling overseas. About two million Indonesians go abroad for medical care each year, contributing to estimated outflows of Rp200 trillion; the government is supporting health SEZs through licensing reforms, knowledge transfer and new regulations.

Gianyar Police Hold Community Dialogue Under National Police Chief’s Quick Wins Programme

Gianyar Police held a dialogue with residents as part of the National Police Chief’s Quick Wins programme, inviting local people to share concerns about public security and order. The discussion also highlighted responsible social media use and community cooperation to prevent drug trafficking, with police pledging to improve responsive, people-centred services.

Women’s and Children’s Ministry backs 10-year prison sentence sought for Little Aresha daycare head

The Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection Ministry has welcomed prosecutors’ demand for a 10-year prison term for the head of Little Aresha daycare in Yogyakarta, alongside an Rp800 million fine and restitution for 83 child victims. The ministry says the case must deliver justice, protect children’s rights and deter similar abuses, and supports legal measures to secure restitution payments.

Advan Admits X1 Neo Box Design Does Not Match the Phone Sold

Advan Indonesia has acknowledged that an illustration on the back of the Advan X1 Neo’s packaging shows a punch-hole camera, while the phone sold uses a waterdrop notch. The company apologised for any confusion and says the packaging artwork has been corrected for future box production; the phone is priced at Rp1.799 million.

Government Says 5,800 Hectares of Fish Ponds Affected by Sumatra Disasters Have Recovered

The Fisheries Ministry says about 5,800 hectares of fish ponds and aquaculture ponds damaged by floods and landslides in Aceh, North Sumatra and West Sumatra have resumed operations. Recovery is being phased in, with a 2026 budget of Rp371.8 billion and a target to restore 15,446 hectares by year-end; rehabilitation of ponds, fishing facilities and ports will continue through 2028.

Bekasi City Government clears overhead cables along Jalan Raya Pondok Gede

Bekasi City Government is removing disorderly overhead cables along Jalan Raya Pondok Gede as part of a broader, phased plan to move utility networks underground through ducting. Mayor Tri Adhianto Tjahyono said the work is intended to improve the city’s appearance, safety and comfort, and will require cooperation from telecommunications providers and other stakeholders.

Video: Bank Aladin Syariah Partners with Three Islamic Banks to Strengthen Liquidity

Bank Aladin Syariah is strengthening liquidity management through an interbank Islamic fund management certificate (SIPA) transaction partnership with BSI, OCBC Syariah and Maybank Syariah. The collaboration is intended to broaden fund-management options in rupiah and US dollars, amid a positive assessment by the Financial Services Authority (OJK) of the Islamic finance industry’s resilience and sustainability.

WCCE 2026 Provides a Platform for Creative Businesses to Explore Partnerships and Investment

Indonesia’s Ministry of Creative Economy is using the World Conference on Creative Economy (WCCE) 2026 to connect local creative businesses with international partners, investors and financial institutions from 65 countries. Business-matching sessions and a Creative Village in Jakarta are intended to open new markets and spur collaborations, although investment and commercial deals will depend on follow-up after the forum.

Customs Seize Hundreds of Thousands of Illegal Cigarettes in Land Patrol in Malang Regency

Malang Customs seized 217,600 untaxed cigarettes after stopping a bus during a routine patrol in Singosari and Lawang. The cigarettes were valued at Rp323.77 million, with potential lost state revenue estimated at Rp162.71 million; the agency says it will continue enforcement along transport and distribution routes.

The Battle of Narratives in the 2026 US Midterm Campaign

The article examines how unverified claims, AI-generated political adverts, the Iran war and debate over Israel are shaping the 2026 US midterm campaign. It argues that campaign spending and online reach can influence which issues dominate, but do not necessarily persuade voters, amid declining confidence in political information and election integrity.

BI Raises Deposit Facility Rate to 5%

Bank Indonesia kept its benchmark BI Rate at 5.75% but raised the Deposit Facility rate to 5%, while leaving the Lending Facility rate at 6.50%. Governor Destry Damayanti said the move is intended to support rupiah stability amid external pressures; most financial institutions surveyed had expected a 25-basis-point increase in the benchmark rate instead.

Pramono urges Jakarta to become an events hub to boost the economy

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo says major concerts and events have generated significant economic activity, with some contributing up to Rp250 billion in revenue. The city is improving infrastructure and transport links to support future events, including a running festival and a Kanye West concert, which are expected to draw visitors and fill hotels.

Nety: Environmental Approval Process Can Be Monitored Through Amdalnet

The Environment Ministry is promoting digital processing of environmental approvals through Amdalnet, while stressing that faster decisions must comply with statutory timelines and preserve environmental and community safeguards. Only 16 of 200 monitored districts and cities in Kalimantan, Sulawesi, Maluku and Papua have registered DPMPTSP administrators, and the ministry is urging more local governments to activate the system to improve transparency and prevent approval delays from hindering investment.

PP No. 28/2025 Provides Certainty in the Licensing Process

Indonesia’s Government Regulation No. 28/2025 replaces the 2021 rules on risk-based business licensing, setting service time standards and clarifying the stages for environmental and other basic approvals. The government says the changes are intended to simplify applications, curb repeated document revisions and give businesses greater certainty.

Police Say Bharada Andika Admitted to Shooting Bharatu Valdo

Bharada Andika Ramadani, a police officer accused of fatally shooting his colleague Bharatu Laurentius Valdo Fernandez, has reportedly admitted to the act after surrendering. Investigators are continuing to examine the motive, possible bullying and whether anyone else was involved; Andika has been named a suspect and detained.

Lamongan Resident Raises Israeli Flags at Home, Causing Concern

A resident of Made village in Lamongan, East Java, reportedly displayed handmade Israeli flags and painted symbols associated with the Illuminati on his house. Village officials and a local military officer removed the flags and cleaned the graffiti after the display attracted public attention; officials said the move was intended to restore calm.

Thirty-Two Protesters Detained at DIY Regional Council Released

Police say all 32 people detained after unrest outside the Yogyakarta Regional Legislative Council (DPRD DIY) were released and returned home early on Wednesday. The force said the detentions were a discretionary measure intended to protect protesters and prevent further clashes; the previous night’s protest saw stone and firecracker throwing, with minor injuries reported among protesters and officers.

Prosecutors to Name Suspect in Kotaraja Village Funds Corruption Case Soon

Prosecutors in East Lombok say they will announce a suspect in an alleged corruption case involving Kotaraja village finances once the final calculation of state losses is ready. Investigators have questioned 43 witnesses and are seeking expert testimony; the alleged misuse may have included spending on online gambling.

Forestry Ministry Enlists Forest Farmer Groups to Fight Fires

The Forestry Ministry is working with community groups, indigenous communities and volunteers to strengthen patrols, early reporting and firefighting, with 14,040 fire-prevention personnel active across 34 provinces. Its programme aims to establish 500 sustainable community fire-prevention groups by 2026; the ministry has also sanctioned 32 companies and reports legal proceedings against 125 entities over fire-related obligations.

Indonesia’s ‘People’s Car’ LCGC Is Losing Appeal: What’s Behind the Shift?

Indonesia’s automotive industry association says the rise of electric vehicles is putting pressure on sales of low-cost green cars (LCGC) and conventional vehicles. Gaikindo is considering hybrid and plug-in hybrid technology as ways to keep first-time cars affordable, while remaining optimistic about reaching its 2026 sales target of 850,000 vehicles.

US$9.9 Billion in Foreign Capital Flows In as BI Confident Rupiah Can Stabilise

Bank Indonesia says foreign capital inflows reached US$9.9 billion from June to 20 October 2026, following incentives aimed at reducing hedging costs and deepening domestic money and foreign-exchange markets. Despite global pressures that weakened the rupiah by 0.61% against the US dollar from the end of September, BI expects the currency to remain stable, supported by attractive rupiah yields, controlled inflation and a positive economic outlook.

KPK Reveals Contents of Letter to TNI Commander on BNPB Corruption Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) says it has detailed to the TNI commander alleged military involvement, conflicts of interest and bribery in procurement linked to BNPB disaster-response funds. The case has led to five suspects, seizures worth Rp5.47 billion and coordination with the TNI Military Police Centre.

GoTo’s Regional-Language AI: What Is Actually New?

GoTo has released a 27-billion-parameter language model adapted from Google’s Gemma3 and tailored to Indonesian and four regional languages. The article argues that the release is an extension of existing work, rather than a new AI architecture or Indonesia’s first regional-language AI, while highlighting the value of making the model available to developers and public institutions.

Breaking News: BI Keeps Its Rate at 5.75%

Bank Indonesia held its benchmark rate at 5.75% at its 20–21 October 2026 Board of Governors Meeting, contrary to most analysts’ expectations of a 25-basis-point increase. The central bank had raised rates by a cumulative 100 basis points in May and June to support the rupiah and contain inflationary pressures.

Banten Governor Urges Public to Await Official Information on KMP Batumandi Accident

Banten Governor Andra Soni has urged the public not to speculate about the cause of the KMP Batumandi fire at Merak Port, saying the investigation should be left to Indonesia’s National Transportation Safety Committee and other authorities. Sixteen passengers received medical treatment, while agencies coordinated response efforts and support for those affected.

Culture Ministry seeks to preserve oral and written traditions

The Culture Ministry is promoting digital access to traditional Nusantara scripts and oral traditions, describing digitalisation as a practical way to safeguard cultural elements at risk of disappearing. At ICANN87 in Bali, Culture Minister Fadli Zon welcomed the launch of internationalised domain names using Balinese, Javanese and Pegon scripts, while calling for sustained documentation, research, education and cross-sector cooperation.

BRIN traces Sampit space object to Chinese satellite-launch rocket

BRIN astrophysicist Thomas Djamaluddin said orbital tracking indicates that debris from China’s ZhuQue-2E rocket passed over Kalimantan before re-entering the atmosphere on 18 October, shortly before an object was found in Sampit. The timing and residents’ reports of a rumbling sound support the identification, but physical examination is still needed to confirm the recovered material’s origin.

In This Economy, Jakarta Public Transport Use Surges

Jakarta recorded 368.45 million passenger trips on Transjakarta, MRT and LRT services in the third quarter of 2026, up 10.8% year on year. Governor Pramono Anung attributed the rise partly to improved transport connectivity, as more residents switch from private vehicles amid mounting living costs.

Bahlil Speaks Out as Nusron Wahid Misses KPK Summons for Second Time

Golkar chairman Bahlil Lahadalia said the party respects the legal process after ATR/BPN Minister Nusron Wahid failed to attend two KPK summonses as a witness in an alleged bribery case involving PT Summarecon’s land-use rights. The anti-corruption agency says Nusron’s testimony is important because several suspects are described as his confidants, and it plans to reschedule his examination.

Central Jakarta Municipality Holds Earthquake Preparedness Drill at Mayor’s Office

Central Jakarta Municipality, the regional disaster management agency and local health officials held an earthquake preparedness drill at the mayor’s office in Gambir. The exercise refreshed staff knowledge of emergency procedures and evacuation roles, with floor wardens responsible for relaying alerts and coordinating action on each floor.

Ride-Hailing Drivers and Apps Must Sign Partnership Agreements: What They Must Include

Presidential Regulation No. 27 of 2026 requires digital platform operators and online motorcycle taxi drivers to formalise their relationship through a platform partnership agreement containing 14 specified provisions. These include service fees, operating costs, incentives, social security protection and access to transaction data, while further rules and amendment procedures will be set by the Ministry of MSMEs.

PT SMI President Director Calls for Stronger Development Finance Institutions in Asia-Pacific

PT SMI President Director Reynaldi says Asia-Pacific’s infrastructure funding needs are too large for any one government or institution, and calls for stronger cooperation among development finance institutions (DFIs). He highlights PT SMI’s project-preparation and blended-finance work, while arguing that sound governance, transparency and accountability are essential for DFIs and regional associations to build trust and attract investment.

Rubio: US-Russia-China Trilateral Summit Could Have a Positive Impact

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said a summit between the leaders of the United States, Russia and China could benefit global security, particularly through discussions on arms control. The proposal comes amid reports of a possible November meeting, although the Kremlin says no agenda has yet been agreed.

Indonesia taps voice-over industry to drive creative economy growth

Indonesia’s Wonder Voice of Indonesia programme has generated more than Rp2.5 billion in economic value through graduates’ collaborations with over 300 brands, as the government promotes voice-over work as a creative-economy subsector. The 2026 programme, run with industry and education partners, aims to develop talent and expand jobs and professional networks for Indonesian voice actors.

BI Expects Indonesia’s Economy to Grow by 4.9–5.7% This Year

Bank Indonesia forecasts Indonesia’s economy to expand by 4.9–5.7% in 2026, supported by government stimulus and improving expectations among economic actors. Governor Destry Damayanti said the outlook was positive despite a weaker global economy and heightened uncertainty, while noting the need to boost household consumption.

Central Java Holds 1,724 Affordable Food Market Events, Generating Rp31 Billion in Sales

Central Java Province has held 1,724 Affordable Food Movement events across 35 regencies and municipalities as of October 2026, with sales reaching Rp31 billion. The programme offers locally tailored access to cheaper staple foods and is intended to support farmers and livestock businesses while helping contain inflation; provincial inflation was reported at 3.18%, below the national rate of 3.28%.

BI Governor Warns of Gloomy Global Economic Outlook as Inflation Reaches 4.6%

Bank Indonesia Governor Destry Damayanti says global growth is expected to hover around 3%, while inflationary pressures reach 4.6%, amid heightened Middle East tensions and persistently high oil prices. She warns that tighter-for-longer US monetary policy, elevated Treasury yields and a strong dollar could constrain emerging-market investment, underscoring the need for coordinated fiscal and monetary responses to protect Indonesia’s stability.

Weather modification prepared to ease water deficits at Java’s dams: Ministry

Indonesia’s Public Works Ministry is preparing weather modification operations to boost rainfall and shore up water reserves at dams affected by an El Niño-driven dry season. It is also identifying unfinished dam projects for the 2028 budget, as 36 per cent of Java’s dams and 62 of the island’s 119 districts and cities have faced drought-related water shortages.

Buying Fuel in Jerricans Is Restricted: Here Are the Requirements

Pertamina Patra Niaga’s North Sumatra regional office says purchases of subsidised diesel and assigned Pertalite in jerricans are permitted only for eligible groups holding recommendation letters. The rules, set out in a 2023 BPH Migas regulation, are intended to ensure subsidised fuel reaches its designated users.

Housing Ministry and Bappenas Refine Housing Roadmap

The Ministry of Housing and Settlements and Bappenas are refining the 2025–2029 housing roadmap, with focus on making housing programmes better coordinated and aligned with national targets. Officials highlighted the need for joint planning across government, lenders and developers, and identified regulation, financing, land availability and inter-agency coordination as key issues.

UMY Professional Certification Body Tests 831 Candidates, Targets International Certification

Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta’s professional certification body assessed 831 candidates across 34 certification schemes in October 2026, as part of efforts to equip students with work-ready skills. It also plans to broaden partnerships with national and international certification bodies, giving students more options for recognised credentials.

TNI Officer Arman Named Suspect over Online Gambling Den at Military Residence

Military police have named Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry) Arman a suspect and detained him over the rental of an official military residence in East Jakarta that was used as an online gambling base. Eleven civilians were previously detained at the site, where officers seized computers, mobile phones and identity cards; investigators are still examining whether the officer knew about the gambling operation.

KPK Writes to Military Commander over Suspected TNI Involvement in BNPB Case

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has written to TNI Commander General Agus Subiyanto, outlining alleged military involvement in corruption linked to disaster-response funds at the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB). The case concerns alleged conflicts of interest and bribery in procurement, including contracts worth about Rp148 billion allegedly connected to a suspect who is the brother of a former BNPB chief.

Researcher: Updating JKN PBI Membership Requires Multiple Layers of Verification

A researcher at The Indonesian Institute says updates to membership in the National Health Insurance’s Contribution Assistance Recipient scheme need layered checks to improve targeting and prevent patients from losing care through administrative errors. She also calls for special safeguards for patients with chronic or catastrophic illnesses, clear rules on funding care for inactive members, and stronger public oversight of social policy.

Lieutenant Colonel Arman Named Suspect After TNI Official Residence Allegedly Used as Online Gambling Headquarters

An Indonesian Army lieutenant colonel has been detained and named a suspect over the alleged unauthorised rental of an official residence in Cijantung, which investigators say was used to operate online gambling. The case began after a public tip-off led to the discovery of computers and other equipment at the property, with 11 civilians taken in for questioning.

Industry Minister Sarmuji Plans Car That Can Travel 65km on One Litre of Fuel

Industry Minister M Sarmuji says range-extended electric vehicles (REEVs) can achieve fuel efficiency of up to 65km per litre and a range of 1,600km on a full charge. The Industry Ministry plans to seek fiscal and non-fiscal incentives for REEVs and hybrid vehicles, arguing they could reduce fuel use and emissions while supporting investment in Indonesia’s automotive industry.

Super Tucano and F-16 Fighter Jets Fly Low over the Paspro Toll Road

The Indonesian Air Force carried out a rehearsal using a 3.5-kilometre stretch of the Pasuruan–Probolinggo toll road to assess its potential as an emergency military aircraft runway. Two Super Tucanos and two F-16s took part in low-level manoeuvres ahead of a scheduled landing test, highlighting the military’s efforts to assess road infrastructure for defence purposes.

Global Lenders Take Note of Companies’ Human Rights Risks

Human rights violations can disrupt mining operations, damage cash flow and undermine a company’s ability to repay loans, making them a credit risk for global lenders. Merdeka Copper Gold says it applies UN guiding principles and conducts impact assessments, while stressing that human rights safeguards must extend across workers, contractors, communities and supply chains.

Wapres’ Special Adviser Says Kamojang Geothermal Plant Does Not Use Residents’ Groundwater; Professor Explains the Science

Vice-President’s special adviser Tina Talisa said the Kamojang geothermal power plant does not draw on groundwater used by local households, after a site visit and briefing by Pertamina Geothermal Energy and ITB hydrogeologist Professor Lambok M. Hutasoit. Hutasoit also rejected a direct link between geothermal drilling and landslides, while the article ends before reporting his response to questions about water shortages.

Jakarta’s Revenue Reaches Rp39.33 Trillion in Third Quarter of 2026

Jakarta’s own-source revenue reached Rp39.33 trillion by the end of the third quarter of 2026, equal to 68.20 per cent of its annual target and up 1.29 per cent year on year. Total regional revenue stood at Rp44.98 trillion, while transfers from the central government reached Rp5.64 trillion, or 50.57 per cent of the budgeted amount.

Elon Musk Said to Have Restricted Starlink in Ukraine: Can a Billionaire Determine the Course of a War?

Reports say Elon Musk ordered restrictions on SpaceX satellite communications used by Ukrainian forces, disrupting drone operations, while officials in the US and Ukraine offer conflicting accounts of who made the decision. The dispute highlights the strategic influence private technology companies can exert over military operations and national security.

iPhone Duo Has No Visible Crease, but the Screen Feels Soft in the Middle

Apple’s rumoured first foldable phone reportedly has no visible crease, but an early user says the display feels soft where it bends and may develop wrinkles under prolonged pressure. The report has raised questions about the screen’s long-term durability, although Apple has not confirmed whether it uses Corning’s variable-thickness glass technology.

Latest Hint on 2027 Minimum Wage from Manpower Minister: Could It Rise by 9.5%?

Manpower Minister Yassierli says the 2027 provincial minimum wage increase has not yet been determined and will be discussed under the new labour-protection law through national and provincial wage councils. Labour groups have proposed a rise of 7.5% to 9.5%, using inflation and economic growth figures to support their calculation.

Korea and Australia Work-Visa Scams on Social Media: Two Bali Fraudsters Swindle Rp313 Million

Bali police have arrested two suspects accused of using social media to defraud Indonesians seeking work visas or overseas jobs, causing total losses of Rp313 million. One allegedly promised to change workers’ South Korean visa status, while the other offered a bogus tattoo-artist job in Australia; both face charges carrying a maximum six-year prison term and a Rp1 billion fine.

Environment Minister: Law Enforcement Must Be Accompanied by Environmental Restoration

Environment Minister Moh Jumhur Hidayat says environmental enforcement must deliver ecosystem restoration, not merely judicial penalties, with scientific evidence playing a vital role in court proceedings. He cited a government lawsuit filed in early 2026 against six companies over alleged damage to more than 2,500 hectares in North Sumatra, seeking around Rp4.8 trillion.

JCI Falls 0.84% in First Session as Foreign Investors Sell Rp581.59 Billion

Indonesia’s Composite Stock Price Index (JCI) fell 0.84% to 5,234.36 by the end of the first trading session, while foreign investors recorded net sales of Rp581.59 billion. Major banks Mandiri and BRI were among the most heavily sold shares, although BCA led foreign net purchases.

Indonesia and China Seek Broader Cooperation as Bilateral Trade Jumps from $8bn to $154bn

Indonesia-China bilateral trade has climbed from about $8 billion during former ambassador Sudrajat’s posting to $154 billion, while the countries look to deepen cooperation beyond commerce. Forum speakers highlighted opportunities in investment, digital and green development, disaster management, renewable energy, agriculture and advanced manufacturing, amid closer regional integration and shared engagement in the Global South.

PDI-P Invites Young People to Party School, Says Becoming President or Vice-President Takes Time

PDI-P has invited young people to attend its party school, where they are taught about Pancasila and the Constitution. Party official Komarudin Watubun said the programme aims to pass on the political values of Sukarno and Megawati Soekarnoputri, stressing that public office—including the presidency—requires preparation and cannot be rushed.

KPK Uncovers New Findings in BNPB Disaster-Funds Corruption Case; Tents and Inflatable Boats Suspected of Being Embezzled

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is investigating suspected irregularities in BNPB procurement beyond communications equipment, including refugee tents, blankets, water pumps and inflatable boats. The probe follows an October 2026 sting operation in which five people were named suspects, with evidence worth Rp5.47 billion seized; investigators are also examining the role of BNPB chief Suharyanto.

Bandung Doctor Accused of Abusing His Child, Who Saw Explicit Content on Father’s Phone

A 37-year-old doctor in Bandung has been arrested on suspicion of sexually abusing his three-and-a-half-year-old daughter. The case came to light after the child imitated sexual behaviour and complained of pain; police say the suspect is being questioned.

Independent Waste Management Promoted Through Draft Regional Regulation

West Java’s DPRD is drafting a regional regulation to provide legal certainty and support for community-led, household waste management. The proposal aims to address barriers including limited funding and product licensing, while expanding initiatives such as converting organic waste into valuable maggot-based products.

Yemen’s Central Bank Orders Freeze on 135 Houthi-Linked Accounts

Yemen’s central bank has directed banks and currency-exchange firms to freeze the accounts and assets of 135 individuals, entities and vessels listed as linked to the Houthi movement. The order also prohibits financial and commercial dealings with those listed, as Yemen’s internationally recognised government advances legislation to designate the group a terrorist organisation amid renewed tensions.

MUI’s IsDF stresses the importance of partnerships to strengthen solidarity with Palestine

The Islamic Dakwah Fund of the Indonesian Ulema Council says partnerships and shared commitments are essential to sustaining humanitarian solidarity efforts for Palestine. At a forum in Jakarta, MUI leaders also called for women to have a stronger role in peacebuilding and decision-making, including a proposed minimum 30 per cent quota in global peace processes.

Can France’s Socialist Camp Win Over Young Voters?

Raphaël Glucksmann has won the French Socialist Party’s presidential primary decisively, but faces a difficult path to the 2027 election amid weak polling and competition from Jean-Luc Mélenchon for left-wing support. His challenge is to attract younger and more moderate left-wing voters while drawing a clear distinction from the radical left on issues including Europe and Ukraine.

Several Officials Reassigned at Dompu Police Headquarters

Dompu Police Chief AKBP Sodikin Fahrojin Nur has overseen a reshuffle of several posts at the Dompu Police headquarters in West Nusa Tenggara. He said the changes were intended to refresh the organisation, support career development and improve police performance and public services, while urging the officials to act with professionalism and integrity.

ICDX: Gen Z and Millennials Dominate Digital Gold Trading

Indonesia Commodity & Derivatives Exchange (ICDX) says Gen Z and Millennials accounted for 68 per cent of 19.2 million digital physical-gold market users recorded through September 2026. The exchange sees the digitally oriented generations, many of whom have their own jobs and income, as a significant potential market for digital gold as a long-term investment.

92 Cisarua Junior High School Pupils Taken to Hospital over Suspected Free Nutritious Meal Poisoning

Ninety-two pupils at a state junior high school in Cisarua, Bogor, were taken to hospital after reportedly falling ill following a Free Nutritious Meal (MBG). Authorities said evacuations and data collection were ongoing, and the cause had not yet been established as health officials treated the students.

France on Edge as Military Deploys to Quell Mass Unrest

France will deploy military personnel alongside police for a large-scale security operation following deadly urban unrest and looting, with Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu acknowledging failures in the state’s response. The turmoil has unsettled markets and businesses, while further protests are planned in France and unrest is also reported in Italy and Albania.

BBCA Extends Share Buyback Period to 23 October 2026: Here’s Why

Bank Central Asia (BCA) has extended its share buyback period to 23 October 2026, from the previously announced end date of 21 October. The bank says the buyback reflects confidence in its business fundamentals and is intended to help stabilise Indonesia’s capital market, while having no material impact on its financial performance or business activities.

Axera’s ADAS Chip Enters European Market Through Leapmotor, Strengthening Global Expansion

Axera’s intelligent-driving chip is being used in a globally marketed Leapmotor electric hatchback, marking the Chinese semiconductor company’s entry into the European automotive market. The article highlights rapid growth in Axera’s chip deployments and market share in China, alongside ambitions to expand international partnerships and deliveries.

Linyi Trade City launches international sourcing centre to boost foreign trade

Linyi Trade City in eastern China has opened an international sourcing centre bringing together 324 corporate tenants and a broad range of local products for overseas buyers. Its foreign trade services, e-commerce support and logistics facilities aim to streamline purchasing and cut cross-border transport costs by about 20 per cent, strengthening the city’s export ecosystem.

Life Is Getting More Expensive, and It Is Getting Harder to Get By

Households in France are struggling to keep pace with rising living costs, despite working and using every possible way to economise. The strain has fuelled protests over wages, public services and inequality, while similar demonstrations and housing pressures across Europe point to a wider crisis of affordability and living standards.

TII urges swift completion of evaluation framework for MBG programme

The Indonesian Institute (TII) has urged the government to finalise a framework for evaluating the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, measuring nutritional quality, changes in recipients’ nutritional status and healthy eating habits—not just distribution numbers. TII also called for transparent evaluation and public participation, while the National Nutrition Agency says it is tightening programme oversight and food-safety procedures.

Pajero Driver Who Killed South Jakarta Junior High School Student Named as Suspect

Police have named and detained a 26-year-old Pajero driver in connection with a collision in Mampang Prapatan that killed a 14-year-old student. The driver tested negative for narcotics, while investigators continue to examine the circumstances of the crash and the suspect’s background.

Why Prabowo Is Right to Crack Down on Tin Mining’s ‘Depraved’ Practices

Former finance minister Fuad Bawazier says President Prabowo Subianto’s crackdown on Indonesia’s tin-mining sector was urgently needed after years of illegal mining, smuggling and poor governance. The government says enforcement has helped PT Timah’s profit rise ninefold in the first half of 2026, while cutting off illicit supplies to overseas buyers.

National Police Chief Investigates KMP Batumandi Fire, Says Deliberate Act Cannot Be Ruled Out

National Police Chief Suyudi Ario Seto said police are investigating the fire aboard the KMP Batumandi near Merak Port to establish whether it was caused by technical factors or deliberate action. All 460 passengers and crew were evacuated safely, although 11 people required further medical treatment.

Rini Says Civil Servants’ Salaries Will Not Yet Be Routed Through Merah Putih Village Co-operatives

Administrative and Bureaucratic Reform Minister Rini Widyantini says the government has no current plan to change civil servants’ salary payments to the Merah Putih Village/Urban-Village Co-operatives. She says the existing system remains in place while she seeks further information from the Finance Minister, with the priority being convenient, transparent access to salaries; Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara has also said salaries will continue to be transferred directly to employees’ bank accounts.

Motorcyclist in Serang Dies After Crashing into Lorry Parked on Roadside

A 25-year-old motorcyclist was killed after his motorcycle struck the rear of a coal-carrying lorry parked on the shoulder of the Serang–Tangerang road in the early hours of Wednesday. Police said the lorry driver had left the vehicle to perform dawn prayers, and both vehicles have been impounded as the investigation continues.

UNS Alumni’s Petition Challenges High School Diploma Evidence Requirement for Presidential Candidates

An alumnus of Sebelas Maret University has asked the Constitutional Court to broaden the types of documents accepted as proof of educational qualifications for presidential and vice-presidential candidates, arguing that the current law excludes valid higher-education credentials. The Court has heard the initial petition and given the applicant 14 days to revise it, while noting that Parliament is also discussing amendments to the Election Law.

Report: Israel Nearly Launched Major Attack on Iran on 10 October, Called Off After Trump’s Opposition

Israel reportedly prepared a multi-day operation against Iran, including strikes on civilian infrastructure and nuclear facilities, but abandoned the plan after US President Donald Trump objected. The report comes amid renewed US-Israeli discussions on Iran and speculation that a joint attack could still occur in the coming weeks.

Bogor Customs Seize 240,000 Illegal Cigarettes after Stopping Minibus at Sentul Barat Toll Exit

Bogor Customs officers seized 240,000 cigarettes without excise stamps from a minibus stopped at the Sentul Barat toll exit. The goods were valued at Rp356.4 million, with potential lost state revenue of Rp179.04 million; the seizure followed an intelligence tip and patrols along the Jagorawi Toll Road.

Pelindo Supports Mangrove Ecosystem Recovery in Demak to Protect Java’s Northern Coast

Pelindo has provided 2,500 mangrove seedlings and 900 HexBRIck units for a coastal protection initiative in Demak, Central Java, combining ecosystem restoration with protective infrastructure. The wider plan includes planting mangroves across as much as 202 hectares, alongside seawalls, to address coastal erosion, land subsidence and tidal flooding while safeguarding communities, ports and logistics networks.

Indonesia’s Profitable ‘Miracle Insect’ Under Threat: Here’s Why

Smoke from forest and peatland fires may hinder the activity of the weevil that pollinates oil-palm flowers, potentially reducing fruit formation by as much as 20%. Because Indonesia’s palm-oil industry relies heavily on this insect, weaker pollination could cut farmers’ yields and disrupt global vegetable-oil supplies.

Army Chief Urges Legal Officers to Adapt to AI and Master the New Criminal Code

Army Chief of Staff General Tandyon Budi Revita has urged graduates and Indonesian Army legal personnel to prepare for legal challenges posed by artificial intelligence and to master the 2023 Criminal Code. He also called for stronger ethics, legal analysis and institutional training as the Army’s legal corps responds to technological change and shifting geopolitical conditions.

Indef: IEU-CEPA to Expand Markets for Indonesia’s Textile Industry and MSMEs

Indef economist Eko Listyanto says the Indonesia-EU Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (IEU-CEPA) could widen European export opportunities for Indonesian textile and textile-product (TPT) businesses, including micro, small and medium-sized enterprises. The government is seeking to complete signing and ratification so the pact can take effect in early 2027, with both sides aiming to sign it before the end of 2026.

Peruri Digital Summit 2026 Discusses Strengthening National Digital Sovereignty

Perum Peruri’s Digital Summit 2026 brought together government, regulators, industry and academic stakeholders to discuss policies and innovation aimed at strengthening Indonesia’s digital sovereignty. The state-owned company highlighted its GovTech mandate and showcased digital security, e-identity and AI solutions, while the event also featured semiconductor, AI and post-quantum cryptography sessions and a national student chip-design competition.

Governor Praises Fishermen for Helping Evacuate Passengers from KMP Batumandi

Banten Governor Andra Soni praised local residents and fishermen for helping evacuate passengers after a fire broke out on the KMP Batumandi as it was preparing to berth at Merak Port. Sixteen passengers received medical treatment, while the cause of the fire remains under investigation by the National Transportation Safety Committee and police.

A Century Old, Dutch-Era Geothermal Well Is Still Active

The Kamojang-3 geothermal well in West Java, first drilled in 1926, is still emitting steam and stands as a landmark in Indonesia’s geothermal history. Kamojang now hosts five geothermal power units, while experts say long-term generation depends on protecting water-recharge areas and highlight geothermal energy’s reliability compared with solar power.

Riau Police Uncover Misappropriation of 6,500 Litres of Subsidised Diesel; Two Suspects Charged

Riau Police have seized 6,500 litres of subsidised Bio Solar and detained two suspects accused of storing and reselling the fuel at a profit in Siak Regency. The suspects face up to six years in prison and a fine of up to Rp60 billion, as police vow to tighten oversight of subsidised fuel distribution.

Police Chief Says Police-on-Police Shooting Case Is Being Handled by Internal Affairs

National Police Chief Suyudi Ario Seto says the shooting at the Air Police Directorate headquarters in Pondok Cabe is being investigated by the police’s Professional and Security Division (Propam). Metro Jaya Police say they are still examining the suspected shooter’s motive, while the suspect’s lawyer alleges the incident was triggered by bullying of the victim’s colleagues.

Dry Ice Used to Disperse Haze from Fires Reaching Homes; Granules to Be Made Smaller

The National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) says it will change how dry ice is dispersed after residents reported granules falling on their homes during weather-modification operations to clear haze from forest and land fires. Officials say finer granules and stricter seeding procedures will help the material evaporate in the air, while operations continue in South Sumatra and Central Kalimantan alongside a wider firefighting response.

To tackle forest and land fires, BRIN and Air Force prepare to reactivate artificial rain console

BRIN and the Indonesian Air Force are preparing to restore an artificial rain console for use in weather-modification operations to help tackle forest and land fires. The equipment will be inspected and then sent to Bandung for repairs; once certified operational, it is expected to support disaster-response efforts.

Floods and Landslides Hit Sumatra Again as Recovery Task Force Races to Rebuild

The government is accelerating post-disaster rehabilitation and reconstruction across Sumatra, where widespread infrastructure damage and renewed floods and landslides are complicating recovery. Some unspent funds may be carried over to 2027 to allow planned rebuilding projects to proceed, while authorities prioritise public facilities, housing and economic infrastructure.

SMU Executive MBA enters global top 50 in Financial Times ranking

Singapore Management University’s Executive MBA climbed nine places to 46th in the Financial Times’ 2026 global ranking, with standout gains in international course experience (9th) and career progress (42nd). The results highlight the programme’s focus on cross-border learning and executive advancement, as well as the growing career value of its alumni network.

Electric Motor Maker ALVA Secures an Additional Rp358 Billion in Financing

Standard Chartered Indonesia has increased financing facilities for PT Electra Mobilitas Indonesia (EMI), the maker of ALVA electric motorbikes, to US$20 million, or about Rp358.2 billion. The funding will support operations, procurement of raw materials and components, and business development as Indonesia seeks to expand domestic electric-motorbike manufacturing and accelerate the low-carbon transition.

IPB Takes International Students to Explore Wakatobi’s Marine Ecosystems

IPB University brought 35 Indonesian and international students to Wakatobi for a field programme exploring tropical marine ecology, coastal ecosystem health and marine governance. The biennial summer course, delivered with Victoria University of Wellington and international experts, is intended to strengthen global marine research and education links while giving participants practical experience in a remote island setting.

Telkom’s Srikandi Brings Women’s Leadership Perspectives to BTW 2026

Telkom leaders and Indonesia’s Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs discussed how women’s leadership can support digital transformation and strengthen the country’s technological sovereignty at Bali Tech Week 2026. The event also showcased TelkomGroup’s infrastructure and digital solutions, including AI, cloud and cybersecurity capabilities, as part of efforts to bolster Indonesia’s digital ecosystem and global competitiveness.

Dozens of Pocong-Like Bundles Containing Bones Found in Magelang — But They Were Not Human

More than 20 small bundles wrapped in burial shrouds were found at a site in Canguk, Magelang, alarming residents who feared they might contain human remains. Forensic examination confirmed the bones were animal remains, likely from cats or dogs, and police said they would bury them to ease public concern.

AI Technology and Direct Sourcing Emerge as New Trends at October China Gift Fair

The 34th China (Shenzhen) International Gifts and Home Products Fair has opened, bringing together 4,500 exhibitors and 5,000 brands across nearly 300,000 square metres. The event highlights AI-powered gifts and direct-from-factory private-label sourcing, reflecting buyers’ demand for innovative products and more flexible supply chains ahead of the year-end shopping season.

PGE Prepares Major Funding Strategy to Reach 1.8 GW by 2034 as Indonesia Seeks to Become World No. 1, Overtaking the US

Pertamina Geothermal Energy (PGE) plans to raise substantial funding to expand its installed geothermal capacity from 727 MW to 1 GW by 2028 and 1.8 GW by 2034. The strategy combines internal equity, IPO proceeds, government-backed low-interest overseas financing, green finance and a joint venture with PLN to manage the sector’s high exploration costs and risks.

Civil Servants Take Shelter Under Desks in South Jakarta City Hall Earthquake Drill

Jakarta’s disaster management agency held a simultaneous earthquake preparedness drill at 112 schools and 10 government offices in South Jakarta. The exercise trained civil servants and residents in self-protection and evacuation procedures, with officials saying staff understood what to do when the siren sounded.

No Plan to Pay Civil Servants Through Village Cooperatives, Says Minister

Administrative and Bureaucratic Reform Minister Rini Widyantini says the government has no current plan to route civil servants’ salaries through the Merah Putih Village/Urban Village Cooperatives. Her remarks contrast with Cooperatives Minister Ferry Juliantono’s earlier statement that the proposal had been submitted to the Finance Ministry, while officials say no formal decision has been made.

Cost of Living Squeezes Families: Just 28% of Japanese Parents Want a Second Child

A Meiji Yasuda Life survey found that just 28.2% of Japanese parents with one young child want a second, down from 56.9% in 2020, with financial concerns cited as the main obstacle. The finding comes amid record-low births and rising child-rearing costs, highlighting the economic pressures that are compounding Japan’s demographic challenges.

Strong Ammonia Smell Alarms Pekanbaru Residents as Environment Agency Investigates

Residents in Pekanbaru reported a pungent ammonia-like smell on Tuesday night, with the odour becoming more noticeable towards midnight. The city’s Environmental and Sanitation Agency has sent inspectors to investigate its source and says it will take further action if checks indicate environmental pollution.

Pramono: Jakarta’s Poverty Rate Falls Below 4% for the First Time

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung says the capital’s poverty rate fell to 3.96% in March 2026, from 4.03%, while open unemployment also declined to 5.79%. The provincial government is expanding job training through its Mobile Training Unit programme, working with about 214 companies to equip jobseekers with skills, including language training for those seeking work overseas.

BNPB Corruption Case: KPK Chief Says Letter Sent to Military Commander

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) says it has written to Indonesian Military Commander General Agus Subiyanto regarding its investigation into alleged misuse of the National Disaster Management Agency’s emergency funds. The letter was sent on 20 October 2026, following a KPK sting operation at BNPB and the naming of five suspects, including the brother of then BNPB chief Suharyanto.

Latest Images of the Middle East War: Taiz Becomes a Battlefield

Houthi military media has released footage it says shows clashes with Saudi-backed Yemeni government forces near Taiz, a key front in the country’s renewed conflict. Reuters verified some locations in the video using buildings, tanks, topographic maps and satellite imagery, but could not independently confirm when the fighting occurred or identify every location shown.

PDI-P Rebukes Jokowi over ‘Political Operation’ Claim on Gibran’s Diploma

PDI-P official Komarudin Watubun rejected former president Joko Widodo’s claim that questions about the diplomas of himself and Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming were part of a political operation. He said the issue should be treated as a matter of constitutional and legal accountability, and called for the relevant evidence to be addressed through the courts and parliamentary oversight.

Active non-alignment amid a fragmented, multipolar world order

Indonesia is modernising its military through a multi-alignment strategy, pursuing major arms deals with the United States, France and China as global power structures become more fragmented. The article contrasts rising defence spending with civil unrest and economic discontent in several countries, framing both as signs of mounting uncertainty in the international order.

Former Indonesian Finance Minister Proposes State Control of Mining, Not Conglomerates

Former finance minister Fuad Bawazier has called for the state to own Indonesia’s mining assets, arguing that this would curb alleged financial manipulation and keep mining revenues in the country. The article also outlines Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia’s affirmative policies to expand opportunities for regional businesses, cooperatives and small enterprises in mining and oil production.

UK to Send Fighter Jets to Help Protect Saudi Arabia from Houthi Attacks

The UK says it will deploy Typhoon fighter jets, transport aircraft and military advisers to help defend Saudi Arabia against increasing Houthi missile and drone attacks. London says the deployment is defensive, while warning that further escalation in the Gulf could raise living costs, disrupt energy supplies and increase costs for British businesses.

The Internet Is Quietly Bringing Major Change to Sumba’s Communities

Internet access and social media are helping Sumba Timur’s weavers and traders reach customers beyond tourists who visit in person, including overseas buyers. Supported by BAKTI Komdigi connectivity infrastructure, digital tools are also enabling community members to promote textiles and accept cashless payments.

Three teenagers caught on CCTV stealing drain cover in East Jakarta

Three teenagers were recorded stealing an iron drain cover outside a mosque in Utan Kayu Utara, East Jakarta, after repeatedly checking the area before acting when it was quiet. Residents said the cover had been in place for around 20 years and was damaged, making it easier to remove; it was the first such theft in the area.

PLN EPI and FLEXIH Inc explore biomass-based low-carbon hydrogen development

PLN Energi Primer Indonesia and US-based FLEXIH Inc have signed a non-disclosure agreement to assess cooperation on producing low-carbon hydrogen from biomass using plasma gasification technology. The evaluation will examine Indonesian biomass feedstocks, potential buyers and investment options, as part of efforts to diversify energy sources, add value to domestic resources and support decarbonisation.

East Java Police Deploy Support Troops to Tackle Forest and Land Fires in Nine Areas

East Java Police have deployed operational support personnel for seven days to help tackle fires across nine areas, with the assignment running until 27 October 2026. The deployment will support suppression, prevention and potential law-enforcement action, alongside coordination with disaster agencies, the military and local governments.

Peruri’s Transformation from Money Printer to Technology Company

Perum Peruri is expanding beyond printing currency and security documents to become a technology company focused on the security and authenticity of digital documents, systems and identities. Its GovTech mandate under Presidential Regulation No. 82 of 2023 positions it to help integrate government digitalisation initiatives, while preserving Peruri’s core role in safeguarding public trust.

Officer Who Shot Fellow Police Officer in Pondok Cabe Faces Premeditated Murder Charge

Bharada Andika Ramadani has been named a suspect after allegedly fatally shooting Bharatu Laurentius Baldo Fernandez Lawai at the Polairud headquarters in Pondok Cabe, South Tangerang. Police are investigating the alleged premeditation, possible bullying and the firearm used, while a separate Propam inquiry is examining potential breaches of police ethics.

Family Calls for Bharatu Valdo’s Death to Be Investigated, Hopes Prabowo Will Intervene

The family of Bharatu Laurentius Valdo Fernandez, who was fatally shot at a police facility in South Tangerang, has urged President Prabowo Subianto to ensure a thorough investigation and the harshest appropriate punishment. His parents are also calling for transparency about the motive and chronology, while relatives remember him as a devoted son and the family’s main breadwinner.

Industry Minister Wants Hybrid Car Incentives Approved Quickly — Here’s Why

Industry Minister M Sarmuji is pressing for incentives for hybrid, plug-in hybrid and range-extended electric vehicles (REEVs) to be introduced by the end of 2026, or early next year at the latest. The proposal would combine fiscal and non-fiscal support, taking advantage of rising fuel prices to encourage more energy-efficient vehicles and develop Indonesia’s battery-based automotive industry.

Bahrain and France co-operate on civil nuclear development

Bahrain and France have signed a memorandum of understanding to develop the skills and expertise needed for Bahrain’s civilian nuclear programme, including through specialised training. The agreement was signed during French President Emmanuel Macron’s Gulf tour, which also focused on strategic co-operation in energy, defence and technology amid heightened regional tensions.

Bandung Doctor Arrested over Alleged Sexual Abuse of His Child, Who Contracted Gonorrhoea

West Java police say they have arrested a doctor suspected of sexually abusing his three-year-old child, who subsequently contracted gonorrhoea. Investigators are examining the suspect and awaiting medical examination results before publicly detailing the case.

Pramono says public transport use in Jakarta rose by 10.8%

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo said 368.4 million passengers used TransJakarta, MRT and LRT services by September 2026, an increase of 10.8%. He attributed the growth to improved transport connectivity and said ridership on the Kelapa Gading–Manggarai LRT could rise further once three more stations are completed.

Reconstructing Indonesia’s Electoral System: Simplifying the Complex

Indonesia’s simultaneous elections combine five ballots in a single day, creating major logistical and cognitive challenges across a vast archipelago. The article highlights invalid legislative ballots, severe exhaustion among polling staff—with more than 180 deaths reported in 2024—and technical problems with the Sirekap application, making the case for reforming the electoral system.

Tourists Flock to Indonesia, and Not Just to Bali

Indonesia welcomed 15.39 million international visitor arrivals in 2025, while domestic trips reached a record 1.2 billion; growth continued through August 2026. Visitor activity is spreading beyond Bali and major cities to destinations including Manado-Likupang, Lake Toba and Lombok-Gili Tramena, bringing economic opportunities to local communities and businesses, most of which are SMEs.

KPK Has Written to TNI Commander over BNPB Fund Corruption Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) says it wrote to TNI Commander General Agus Subiyanto on 20 October 2026 as part of its investigation into alleged misuse of disaster-response funds managed by the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB). The case has led to five suspects being named, including the brother of then-BNPB chief Suharyanto, and the seizure of assets worth Rp5.47 billion.

China and Vietnam Hold Workshop on Green Crop Protection Technologies in Hanoi

Chinese and Vietnamese representatives agreed to expand demonstrations of green pest and disease management technologies across the Lancang–Mekong region, with a focus on improving food security and addressing corn pests and diseases in Vietnam. The workshop featured field demonstrations, technical exchanges and donations of biopesticides, monitoring tools and application equipment, strengthening bilateral cooperation on plant protection.

Geo Dipa Energi Secures Rp1.3 Trillion in State Capital Injection and Accelerates Two Geothermal Projects

State-owned geothermal developer Geo Dipa Energi received Rp1.3 trillion in state capital injection from the national budget in early 2019 to support the development of the Dieng Unit 2 and Patuha Unit 2 geothermal power plants. Patuha Unit 2, with planned capacity of 55 MW, is targeted to begin commercial operations in the first quarter of 2027, followed by Dieng Unit 2 in the first quarter of 2028.

China says APEC finance ministers agree to boost policy coordination

APEC finance ministers have agreed to strengthen macroeconomic policy communication and coordination to address external risks, while expanding practical financial-sector cooperation. Their discussions also produced a statement promoting secure, accessible digital infrastructure and stronger public-private collaboration to support regional trade, connectivity and economic opportunities.

White Island Eruption in New Zealand Prompts Higher Alert Level

New Zealand has raised its volcanic alert level as ash emissions continue at White Island, also known as Whakaari. Authorities report no threat to the mainland beyond a possible sulphur smell and light ash fall, and say the activity could persist for weeks while the risk of significant impact remains very low.

Two Goats Found Mauled to Death in Saptosari, Suspected Wild Animal Attack

Two goats belonging to residents of Kanigoro, Saptosari, Gunungkidul, were found dead with their bodies torn apart. Police suspect they were attacked by a wild animal, but have not yet identified the species.

Airlangga Targets Rp150 Trillion in Foreign-Exchange Savings Through Health Special Economic Zones

Coordinating Economic Affairs Minister Airlangga Hartarto is seeking to retain up to Rp150 trillion in foreign exchange by expanding health-focused special economic zones (KEKs), encouraging Indonesians to seek treatment at home. Around two million Indonesians travel abroad for medical care each year, mainly to Singapore and Malaysia, with estimated spending of Rp200 trillion.

Public Works Minister Enlists Residents in Cash-for-Work Scheme to Tackle Padang Flood Damage

The Public Works Ministry has used a cash-for-work scheme to clear mud and debris from flood-hit neighbourhoods and public facilities in Padang, involving affected residents and providing them with income. Clean-up work at seven affected mosques and prayer rooms has been completed, while efforts in two residential areas are nearing completion; similar work has also been completed at affected sites in Pesisir Selatan.

Pupuk Kaltim Turns Coal Waste into Added Value

Pupuk Kaltim is using fly ash and bottom ash (FABA) from its coal-fired boilers as an input in NPK fertiliser production, reducing waste and cutting its use of clay. The company says it has reused 66,180 tonnes of FABA to date and is targeting 75,000 tonnes over five years, while also applying the material in construction, soil stabilisation and coral-reef restoration.

US Faces Risk of Crisis and France-Style Unrest

Economic observers warn that mounting US debt, deficits and interest costs could heighten public frustration, drawing comparisons with France’s fiscal pressures, although the US has significant advantages. The dollar’s reserve-currency status and demand for Treasuries provide support, but slower growth and political deadlock over the debt ceiling could still trigger serious financial-market turmoil.

Genon Passes Validation for Nike Footwear Production and Wins New AI Automation Contracts in Indonesia

South Korean AI start-up Genon says its Vision AI system has passed Nike’s final production validation, achieving defect-detection rates of 99.7% and 99.2% on two footwear models. It has also won further Vision AI and Physical AI contracts in Indonesia, where its new subsidiary is targeting profitability in its first year as the company expands into footwear and other industries.

Two Teenagers Attacked by Group of Peers in Mataram, Possibly Mistaken for Someone Else

Two 19-year-olds were attacked by a group of teenagers in Mataram in what police believe may have been a case of mistaken identity. Police are questioning witnesses and suspected perpetrators, and have urged the public not to retaliate.

Genon Clears Nike Footwear Production Validation and Wins New AI Automation Contracts in Indonesia

Genon says its Vision AI system for Nike footwear passed mass-production validation, achieving defect-detection rates of 99.7% and 99.2% across two styles, and it is preparing for a commercial rollout from 2027. The company has also secured additional Vision AI and Physical AI automation contracts in Indonesia and is targeting first-year profitability for its newly established Indonesian subsidiary, while exploring applications in shipbuilding and offshore engineering.

Ship Accidents Keep Recurring as Commission V Scrutinises BKI’s Role in Vessel-Worthiness Certification

Following the fire aboard the passenger ferry KMP Batumandi at Merak Port, a Commission V deputy chair has questioned the Indonesian Classification Bureau’s role in certifying vessels’ technical seaworthiness. He called for stronger oversight of BKI, citing a succession of maritime accidents in 2026 and concerns that a single national classification body could allow conflicts of interest.

Baznas Encourages Students to Build Global Networks from an Early Age through IZE Fest

Baznas is urging students to develop international connections, broaden their knowledge and seek new experiences as they prepare to become future agents of change. IZE Fest 2026, organised by the Baznas Cendekia School, combines zakat education with technology-focused innovation and competitions for around 1,500 students from Indonesia and abroad.

Death toll from Israeli aggression in Gaza rises to 74,480, with 175,539 injured

The reported death toll from Israel’s war in Gaza has risen to 74,480, with 175,539 people injured since 7 October 2023. Medical sources said hospitals recorded five deaths and 22 injuries in the past 24 hours, while thousands remain missing or inaccessible beneath rubble and on roads.

Islamic Financial Institutions Must Move Up a Gear: More Than Just Selling Halal Products

Islamic financial institutions (LKS) should measure progress not only through asset growth, digitalisation and profits, but also by ensuring Sharia principles are consistently upheld in day-to-day operations. The article argues for stronger operational systems, vendor networks and risk controls to prevent misuse of financing and make profit-sharing contracts more viable, supported by the National Committee for Islamic Economy and Finance’s “Beyond Murabahah” initiative.

MP urges BMKG to provide consistent disaster education in Cilacap

A member of Indonesia’s House of Representatives has urged the Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) to deliver regular disaster-preparedness education in Cilacap, an area exposed to earthquakes and tsunamis. She also called for wider outreach on weather and climate information to support local fishermen and farmers.

AITO Looks to Europe as It Builds a Global Automotive Ecosystem

AITO says it has won the trust of more than 1.2 million customers in China and ranked among the world’s top 10 luxury automotive brands by brand value in Brand Finance’s 2026 ranking. The Chinese marque says it is looking to expand its global presence and work with value-chain partners to grow an automotive ecosystem and bring intelligent luxury mobility to more customers.

UI Professor: Indonesia’s Foreign Policy Depends on Leadership Style

A University of Indonesia professor says the direction of the country’s foreign policy is shaped not only by national interests and global developments but also by the leadership style of decision-makers. A guest lecture at Hasanuddin University also examined post-Reformasi priorities and South-South Cooperation, highlighting its potential to strengthen Indonesia’s autonomy as well as challenges including funding, governance and competing national interests.

Central Java Holds 1,724 Affordable Food Market Events to Keep Staple Prices Down

Central Java held 1,724 Affordable Food Movement (GPM) events across all 35 regencies and municipalities in 2026, generating Rp31.03 billion in sales. The programme offers subsidised staples and supports local farmers and livestock breeders, while provincial officials say it is also intended to curb inflation amid supply and distribution pressures.

Wife of Former BNPB Chief’s Brother Won Several Contracts Linked to KPK Sting Operation

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is investigating BNPB procurement contracts allegedly steered to companies affiliated with the wife of suspect Bima Setiawan, brother of former agency chief Suharyanto. The inquiry also covers alleged private-sector bribery and potential conflicts of interest, following a sting operation in which five people were named suspects and assets worth Rp5.47 billion were seized.

Era Graharealty Officially Exits the Indonesia Stock Exchange

Era Graharealty has received shareholder approval to go private and delist its shares from the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX). The plan includes a voluntary tender offer by APAC Investment 2 Pte. Ltd. to buy shares held by public shareholders, alongside amendments to the company’s articles of association and a change to its name.

KITE Duty Exemption Facility Boosts Indonesian Batik Exports to Japan and Australia

Indonesia’s Customs and Excise agency has granted PT Perusahaan Dagang dan Industri Batik Keris a KITE duty-exemption facility, waiving import duties on raw materials used to produce export goods. The scheme is expected to improve production-cost efficiency and support exports to Japan and Australia, while the company projects growth in employment from 1,705 to 5,783 workers and investment from Rp539.94 billion to Rp686.76 billion by 2030.

Muhammadiyah Calls for Forest Governance Reforms and Action Against Those Responsible for Land and Forest Fires

Muhammadiyah has expressed deep concern over recurring forest and land fires in Sumatra and Kalimantan, citing severe environmental damage and harm to public health, education and livelihoods. It says the fires demand a comprehensive review of policy and enforcement, and urges authorities to prioritise public safety and protect vulnerable groups.

Abandoned Baby Found by Roadside in Bogor Village, Shocking Residents

A newborn baby girl was found in a bag beside a road in Curug village, Bogor, after passers-by heard her crying. She was reported to be healthy and is receiving care from a midwife, while police investigate who left her there and seek to identify her parents.

Military Officer Named Suspect Over Army Residence Rented for Online Gambling Operations

Military Police in Jakarta have named an Army lieutenant colonel a suspect for renting out an official residence in Cijantung, East Jakarta, allegedly for online gambling operations. Authorities found 32 computers and detained 11 civilians at the property, while the Army says it is investigating everyone involved and will not allow its facilities to be used for illegal activity.

Chinese Cars Continue to ‘Conquer’ the World as Chery Exports Top 1.5 Million Units

Chery Group reported global sales of 2.21 million vehicles in the first nine months of 2026, up 9.9% year on year, while exports surged 65.6% to 1.55 million units—already exceeding its full-year 2025 total. The company is expanding rapidly in Europe and other markets, alongside growth in new energy vehicles, robotics and technology development.

Don Ritto Says 74kg of Gold Is Unrelated to Febrie Case; Prosecutor Calls It a Personal Assumption

Prosecutors have urged the Central Jakarta Corruption Court to reject Don Ritto’s objection and proceed with his money-laundering trial. They say his claims about the origins of 74kg of gold, foreign currency and legal-fee payments are personal assumptions and arguments on the merits, while the indictment alleges he acted jointly with former Jampidsus Febrie Adriansyah and others in laundering more than Rp346 billion and US$440,990.

Saudi Arabia Destroys Five Drones Targeting Eastern Province and Medina

Saudi-led coalition air defences intercepted and destroyed five drones aimed at the Eastern Province and Medina, according to coalition spokesperson Major General Turki Al-Maliki. The statement did not identify those behind the attacks, which come amid escalating Houthi strikes on Saudi territory and renewed fighting in Yemen.

BRI expands global investors’ access to Indonesian business opportunities

BRI is partnering with Indonesia’s Foreign Ministry to connect international investors with domestic business opportunities, offering banking support through its Foreign Direct Investment Services and integrated One BRI Solution. The initiative aims to turn cross-border partnerships into investment and business activity that benefits Indonesian companies and SMEs, strengthens supply chains and supports inclusive economic growth.

Pedestrian in Koja Killed by Electricity Pole Struck by Trailer Truck

A pedestrian was killed in North Jakarta after a trailer truck collided with a minibus, then hit an electricity pole that fell on him. Police said the crash may have been caused by faulty brakes; the truck driver and vehicles involved were identified, and the incident also brought down a pole belonging to the Public Works Agency’s Bina Marga department.

Analyst: Profit-taking after rebound prompts JCI correction

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) fell 0.84% in Wednesday’s first-session trading after a sharp rebound the previous day, as investors took profits amid uncertainty over MSCI-related sentiment and foreign fund flows. Market analyst Elandry Pratama expects continued volatility, with 5,405 a key level for confirming an initial trend change; until then, gains should be viewed as a technical rebound.

The Progress of Mining Downstreaming in the First Two Years of the Prabowo-Gibran Government

The article reviews Indonesia’s mining downstreaming push, including 19 projects initiated by Danantara and government measures intended to give small businesses and local cooperatives a greater role. It highlights the potential gains in investment, jobs and industrial value, alongside challenges involving infrastructure, energy, financing, technology, regulation and business certainty.

One Hundred Graduation Ceremonies, 1,100 Journeys

Universitas Amikom Yogyakarta is marking its 100th graduation ceremony, with 1,100 graduates celebrating the completion of their studies. The author reflects on graduation as both the culmination of sustained effort and the beginning of graduates’ contributions to society, while emphasising the continuing relationship between alumni and their university.

Police Arrest Doctor Accused of Abusing His Child, Who Contracted Gonorrhoea, in Bandung

West Java police have arrested a doctor suspected of sexually abusing his three-year-old child, who reportedly contracted gonorrhoea. Investigators are questioning the suspect and awaiting medical examination results before publicly presenting the case; the child’s lawyer says the abuse came to light after the child imitated adult behaviour and later experienced pain while urinating.

Ferry Catches Fire in Merak; House Commission V Says: ‘It Keeps Happening Again and Again’

House Commission V chairman Lasarus criticised the Transport Ministry after the KMP Batumandi caught fire while approaching Merak Port, saying repeated ferry accidents point to weak oversight and a failure to improve procedures. All passengers were rescued, and police are investigating the incident.

Sompo Syariah Officially Begins Operating as a Sharia General Insurer

Sompo Insurance Indonesia says its dedicated Sharia subsidiary, PT Sompo Insurance Sharia, has officially begun operating in line with Financial Services Authority (OJK) requirements. The company says the new entity will strengthen governance and enable more focused, innovative Sharia-compliant protection, while supporting the growth of Indonesia’s Islamic finance sector.

Malaysia PM Anwar warns against Israeli navigation app Waze over data security concerns

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has urged citizens to stop using Waze, citing concerns that the Israeli-developed app could expose users’ data to monitoring, and recommended the Malaysian Highway Authority’s Tuju app instead. The warning followed a National Cyber Security Committee review of cyber threats, which also addressed MyDigital ID security and emerging risks from autonomous AI as the government seeks to bolster digital sovereignty.

Transport Minister Asks Police and KNKT to Investigate Cause of KMP Batumandi Fire

Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi has asked the police and the National Transportation Safety Committee (KNKT) to investigate the cause of a fire aboard the KMP Batumandi near Merak Port in Banten. All passengers and crew were evacuated safely, while investigators will examine technical and non-technical factors, including the possibility of deliberate action.

Burnt Monkey Discovered in Batam and Bintan Blackout Case

Police have named five suspects—four PLN Batam personnel and a contractor—in connection with a widespread power outage on Batam and Bintan. Investigators say a wild monkey may have entered a substation and caused a short circuit, while shortcomings in protection systems and perimeter fencing are also under investigation.

Preservation body: Hudoq tradition is a living heritage that safeguards nature

A cultural preservation official says the Hudoq tradition in Mahakam Ulu is both a living cultural heritage and a practice closely tied to food security and care for the environment. The annual festival provides a platform for the tradition, but its continuity depends on knowledge being passed from older to younger generations.

Pramono Sends Team to Investigate Viral Claims of Pickpocketing Ring at TransJakarta’s Kampung Melayu Stop

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has ordered his staff to investigate viral social media claims that a group of pickpockets is targeting TransJakarta passengers at Kampung Melayu stop. The post warned commuters to guard valuables closely amid crowded conditions, particularly those carrying rucksacks.

Video: Indonesia’s Definition of Corruption Changed – Chinese Rocket Debris Falls on Palm Oil Plantation

President Prabowo Subianto has approved a National Economic Council proposal to revise the definition of corruption, shifting its emphasis from state losses to bribery, according to council chair Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan. Separately, metal debris the size of a car was found at a palm oil plantation in Central Kalimantan and is suspected to be part of a Chinese space rocket, though its identity has not been independently confirmed.

Elon Musk Restricts Internet in Ukraine, Grounding Drones

Elon Musk reportedly ordered Starlink connection speeds in Ukraine to be limited, disrupting systems used to control Ukrainian drones. The move reportedly followed criticism of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy by Musk and US President Donald Trump, and has prompted questions over who controls the satellite network used on the battlefield.

BMKG strengthens tsunami education and evacuation drills in Cilacap

Indonesia’s meteorology agency is expanding public education and evacuation exercises in Cilacap after modelling indicated a potential tsunami of up to 15 metres, with waves estimated to reach the coast 43–45 minutes after an earthquake. BMKG stressed that the scenario is not a prediction, but said preparedness requires mapped evacuation routes, safe shelters, regular drills and protection for vital infrastructure.

BRI Pledges to Boost Global Investment and Expand Access for Businesses

Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) says it is working with Indonesia’s Foreign Ministry to connect international investors with domestic business opportunities and help Indonesian companies and MSMEs access global markets. Its foreign direct investment services, integrated banking solutions and a newly launched investment guidebook are intended to support investors while linking them with local firms and supply chains.

Creative Economy Minister: WCCE 2026 to Strengthen Collaboration for an Inclusive Creative Economy

Indonesia has opened the 2026 World Conference on Creative Economy (WCCE), focusing on collaboration to ensure creative-sector participants have equal access to opportunities and economic benefits. Minister Teuku Riefky Harsya said the conference will promote collective continuity across countries and generations, while addressing technology, sustainability and fairer intellectual property returns.

Customs Uncovers New Smuggling Method: Liquid Methamphetamine Soaked into Books and Certificates

Indonesia’s Directorate General of Customs and Excise now X-rays all consignments entered under the Consignment Note system, including documents, after discovering narcotics concealed in books and certificates. Officials say the cases underline the need for layered screening, since drugs can be absorbed into paper and may not be apparent from the declared shipment type.

Pajero Driver Who Hit Junior High School Student in South Jakarta Named Suspect and Detained

Police have named and detained the 26-year-old driver of a Mitsubishi Pajero after a collision in Mampang Prapatan, South Jakarta, killed a 14-year-old student. The driver tested negative for narcotics, while investigators continue examining the crash and the suspect’s background.

Beyond HTs, KPK Says BNPB Tent and Inflatable Boat Procurement Was Corrupted

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) says suspected corruption in disaster-response procurement at the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) may extend beyond handheld radios to tents, blankets, water pumps and inflatable boats. The investigation follows arrests of 15 people and the naming of five suspects, with investigators examining procurement documents and assets worth Rp5.47 billion seized as evidence.

Boy Walks 2km to Report Father for Allegedly Abusing Mother in Pontianak

A boy walked about two kilometres to a police station in Pontianak to report that his father had allegedly confined and assaulted his mother. Police found the woman with a split lip and in a state of shock; she said she and her daughter had been locked in a room, while the suspect fled when officers sought to question him.

KPK Reveals BNPB Case Involving Purchases of Refugee Tents and Wildfire-Fighting Equipment

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) says its investigation into alleged misuse of disaster-response funds at Indonesia’s National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) covers purchases including tents, blankets, water pumps, boats and equipment for tackling forest and land fires. Five people have been named as suspects, with investigators examining procurement records and seized electronic evidence after searches at eight locations; alleged benefits include Rp4.8 billion, 325 grammes of gold and foreign currency.

National Police Chief Calls Firefighter Whose Voice Was Lost Fighting Forest Fires to Praise His Efforts

National Police Chief Suyudi Ario Seto praised Iptu M Agus Setiawan for continuing to help fight forest and land fires despite contracting an acute respiratory infection and losing his voice. He urged Agus and his colleagues to prioritise their health and seek medical care promptly if their condition worsens.

Indonesia Could Earn Rp1,682 Trillion from Coal Production of 700 Million Tonnes

Indonesia’s coal output could rise to 700 million tonnes in 2026 after the Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry approved a limited relaxation of production targets, up from the 600 million tonnes initially set in company work plans. Based on CNBC Indonesia’s estimated average coal price, sales could total Rp1,682 trillion, while projected non-tax state revenue from minerals and coal is Rp133.93 trillion.

JCI Falls 0.84% by the End of the First Trading Session

Indonesia’s Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) fell 0.84% to 5,234.36 by midday after opening higher and then facing heavy selling. Investors are watching Bank Indonesia’s interest-rate decision, developments following MSCI’s announcement and the prospect of share buy-backs by major conglomerates and Danantara.

Fire Breaks Out at Ice Cream Warehouse in Tangerang

A major fire struck an ice cream production warehouse in Jatiuwung, Tangerang, on Tuesday night, with the blaze reportedly starting after an electrical short circuit. Fire crews deployed 60 personnel and 16 fire engines, taking more than six hours to bring the fire under control.

Jokowi Says Diploma Row Is a Political Operation; PDI-P Urges Him Not to Put on a Show

PDI-P official Komarudin Watubun rejected former president Joko Widodo’s claim that questions over his and Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s diplomas are part of a political operation. He said the issue could be settled by proving the documents’ authenticity in court, while Jokowi maintained that political actors were exploiting the controversy.

BRIN: Rocket Debris Found on a Kalimantan Palm Oil Plantation Was Chinese

BRIN astrophysics researcher Thomas Djamaluddin says debris found in a palm oil plantation in Sampit, Central Kalimantan, was from China’s ZhuQue-2E rocket. The object was identified as space debris that re-entered Earth’s atmosphere before falling in Indonesia.

Former Indonesian Finance Minister Proposes Replacing Mining Permits with Oil and Gas-Style Contracts

Former finance minister Fuad Bawazier says Indonesia should replace mining permits with a state-control contract system modelled on oil and gas to curb transfer pricing, export under-invoicing and illegal mining. The Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry has considered adapting a production-sharing scheme, but the proposal remains under review and awaits a Cabinet decision.

Free Nutritious Meals Programme Reaches 57 Million Beneficiaries Across 38 Provinces

Indonesia’s Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme has reached more than 57 million schoolchildren, pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers and young children across all 38 provinces, supported by 27,486 nutrition service units. Spending reached Rp153.2 trillion by the third quarter of 2026, or 66.9 per cent of the effective budget ceiling; the programme’s next challenge is to sustain its expansion while ensuring food safety, nutritional quality, reliable distribution and transparent budget management.

Pakistani General’s Visit Ends in Deadlock as Tehran Says Not a Speck of Uranium Will Leave Iran

Iran’s senior security official Mohsen Rezaei told Pakistani army chief Asim Munir that enriched uranium would not be allowed to leave the country and that talks with the United States would resume only after Washington met Tehran’s demands. The visit, part of Pakistan’s efforts to revive peace negotiations, highlighted Iran’s deep distrust of the US and its insistence on concessions including an end to the maritime blockade and sanctions on Iranian oil exports.

Police to Investigate Cause of KMP Batumandi Fire in Merak

Indonesian police will investigate whether technical or non-technical factors caused a fire aboard the KMP Batumandi as it approached Merak port, including whether it was deliberate. The National Transportation Safety Committee has also been asked to examine the incident, after rescue teams were deployed to help move passengers to a safe area.

Jakarta Police Say No Greenpeace Activists Were Arrested at HI Roundabout

Jakarta Metro Police said six Greenpeace Indonesia activists who unfurled a climate protest banner at the Selamat Datang Monument were not arrested, but taken for medical attention after feeling weak and dizzy. They were accompanied by the Indonesian Legal Aid Foundation and returned home that evening; their protest called on the government to address the climate crisis.

Volleyball Match Turns Deadly in Bima, One Young Man Hacked to Death

A 24-year-old man was killed and another young man injured in a knife attack after a confrontation near a volleyball match in Bima, West Nusa Tenggara. Police arrested three suspects within 12 hours and say they are investigating each person’s role in the incident.

Business Leaders Warn of Import Surge Threatening Indonesian Jobs

Kadin Indonesia says excessive imports of goods that can already be produced domestically could undermine local manufacturers, deter investment and put jobs at risk, particularly in textiles, footwear, electronics and consumer goods. The Trade Ministry says imports must be managed according to national needs and that product standards and trade rules should be enforced consistently, while local producers are encouraged to improve quality and market access.

A look inside the iPhone Duo unboxing ahead of its first sale

An unboxing video of Apple’s forthcoming iPhone Duo shows the foldable handset arriving flat, with packaging similar to other iPhones. Availability at launch remains uncertain: online orders may not arrive until 25 January 2027, while Apple’s physical stores may have no walk-in stock on 23 October.

Nusantara Regas Delivers 33 LNG Cargoes by the Third Quarter of 2026

Nusantara Regas reported receiving 96.7 million MMBTU of LNG and delivering 96.5 million MMBTU of gas, equivalent to 33 cargoes, through September 2026. The company said its 96 per cent plant availability and strong safety record helped support gas supplies to power plants and industrial customers in Jakarta and western Java, as it highlighted its governance and sustainability credentials.

Khofifah stresses safety of personnel tackling forest and land fires

East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa has urged caution and stronger safety measures for firefighters and volunteers responding to fires at Raden Soerjo Grand Forest Park, where 92 hotspots remain. The fires have also damaged water-distribution pipes serving three villages, and the provincial government has sought helicopter support for water-bombing operations.

South Sulawesi Provincial Government Calls for Salujambu Bridge to Open to Improve Access

South Sulawesi’s provincial government has asked for the completed Salujambu Bridge to be opened without waiting for an official inauguration, provided final technical inspections confirm it is safe. The 70-metre bridge links Luwu and North Luwu regencies and is intended to improve residents’ transport access and daily mobility.

UMY Begins Construction of Muhammadiyah Sapen Universal School, Set to Open in 2027

Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta has begun building SMP Muhammadiyah Sapen Universal School in Sleman, with classes expected to start in July 2027. The school will offer a Cambridge-supported international curriculum, backed by an investment of around Rp50 billion, and aims to combine global standards with Indonesian character and identity.

Track Gold Price Fluctuations with HF Gold Puzzle

Antam gold prices reflect both international spot prices and the rupiah exchange rate, with domestic premiums and seasonal demand also shaping the final figure. HF Gold Puzzle says its chart-tracking feature helps customers assess market trends, while the article also outlines factors influencing gold and the rules governing its cash-on-delivery transactions.

Education Ministry Welcomes Garuda TV’s Juara Kelas Indonesia

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has welcomed Garuda TV’s Juara Kelas Indonesia, a national competition giving primary-school pupils a platform to demonstrate their abilities. Deputy Minister Fajar Riza Ul Haq said the programme supports educational quality by combining learning, competition and recreation, while Garuda TV says it aims to build pupils’ academic, critical-thinking and teamwork skills.

Kindergarten Director in China Sentenced to Life in Prison After 247 Pupils Suffer Lead Poisoning

A court in Gansu sentenced six people over the use of toxic additives in food served at a Tianshui kindergarten, where 247 of 251 children tested had abnormal blood lead levels. The kindergarten’s person in charge received a life sentence, while the school’s executive head was jailed for 15 years; the case has also prompted scrutiny of local officials and medical support for affected children.

Investment Grows 7.59% in Q3 2026 as Domestic Investment Weakens

Indonesia recorded investment of Rp528.7 trillion in the third quarter of 2026, up 7.59% year on year, although domestic investment (PMDN) fell 7.48%. The government is promoting mineral downstreaming as a driver of higher-value domestic industry; the sector reportedly accounts for around 30% of national investment, worth US$61 billion.

Special Economic Zone Investment Reaches Rp46 Trillion Through Q3 2026, Down 9%

Investment in Indonesia’s special economic zones (SEZs) totalled Rp46 trillion in January–September 2026, down 9.09% year on year and equivalent to 67% of the annual target. Foreign investment accounted for Rp33 trillion, while the zones added 53,190 workers, exceeding the employment target; cumulative investment since the zones were established stands at Rp382.1 trillion.

BRIN: Object that fell on a palm oil plantation in Central Kalimantan was a Chinese rocket

BRIN astrophysicist Thomas Djamaluddin says debris found at a palm oil plantation near Sampit was from China’s ZhuQue-2E rocket, based on orbital data showing its final passage over the area before re-entering Earth’s atmosphere. He said the timing matched residents’ reports of a loud rumble, while stressing that physical examination is still needed to confirm the debris’ identity.

Russia to Consider US Proposals but Rules Out Political Concessions

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said Moscow would assess proposals from US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner on their economic and financial merits, while rejecting any political concessions or expectations of political support. The comments came as the Kremlin welcomed the envoys’ discussions with Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Witkoff would convey proposals aimed at advancing peace, including a possible trilateral leaders’ meeting.

Polri and Transport Ministry strengthen service coordination ahead of Christmas and New Year period

Indonesia’s National Police (Polri) and the Ministry of Transportation are stepping up coordination ahead of the 2026 Christmas and 2027 New Year holiday period, with preparations also looking towards Eid al-Fitr 2027. The discussions covered public transport services, traffic management, accident response across land, sea and air transport, and cooperation in education.

President Prabowo to Chair Plenary Cabinet Meeting This Afternoon

President Prabowo Subianto is scheduled to chair a plenary Cabinet meeting at the State Palace on 21 October 2026, with strategic issues and an assessment of government programmes on the agenda. The meeting coincides with the second anniversary of the formation of the Red and White Cabinet and is expected to include ministers, deputy ministers and senior advisers.

Police Chief and Transport Minister Discuss Security Preparations for Christmas, New Year and Eid

National Police Chief Suyudi Ario Seto and Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi discussed closer coordination on transport services and security ahead of the Christmas and New Year period and Eid al-Fitr. Their talks also covered road, maritime and aviation safety issues, as well as possible cooperation on education programmes.

Rupiah Expected to Weaken as Markets Await BI Board of Governors Meeting Decision

The rupiah was unchanged at Rp17,992 per US dollar at Wednesday’s open, while analysts expect it to weaken as markets await the Bank Indonesia Board of Governors’ decision. Market expectations are split between an unchanged policy rate and a 25-basis-point increase, with global inflation and US Treasury yields also in focus amid elevated oil prices.

Debt: Is Indonesia Moving Closer to the US Again and Leaving China Behind?

Indonesia’s external debt rose to US$459.27 billion in August 2026, with government and central bank borrowing increasing while private-sector debt declined. Debt owed to US creditors grew as borrowing from China edged down, although yuan-denominated debt hit a record equivalent of US$19.95 billion, reflecting a distinction between creditor location and currency denomination.

PT SMI Expands DFI Role to Accelerate Infrastructure Development

PT Sarana Multi Infrastruktur (PT SMI) says the cumulative value of projects it has supported reached Rp1,312 trillion by August 2026, reflecting its expanding role as a development finance institution. Beyond financing businesses and local governments, it supports project preparation and Islamic finance, including a waste-to-fuel facility in Surabaya, as it seeks to broaden sustainable infrastructure investment.

To Prevent Digital Fraud, Jalin Educates 100 MSME Operators

Jalin has launched the ‘Ibu Cek Dulu’ initiative to help 100 women involved in micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in East Jakarta recognise digital payment scams. The programme responds to a gap between Indonesia’s financial inclusion and literacy rates, underscoring the need to pair wider access to financial services with stronger understanding and confidence in using them safely.

Accurate Talks in Yogyakarta Examines Strategies for Preparing Businesses for Their Next Opportunity

At a Yogyakarta forum, business owners and experts stressed that sustainable growth depends on sound financial records, cash-flow awareness, adaptable revenue models and deliberate branding—not simply rising sales. Speakers also urged businesses to validate their operations before expanding or accepting investment, while attendees highlighted practical lessons in administration and customer service.

Understanding the Personality Traits of Ambiverts, Omniverts and Otroverts

Psychiatrists and psychologists describe three social personality tendencies that go beyond the familiar introvert–extrovert divide. Ambiverts balance socialising with time alone, omniverts move more frequently between the extremes, while otroverts may be sociable without feeling a need to belong to a group.

395,000 East Java Residents Affected by Drought; Deputy Speaker Urges Mitigation

Around 395,438 people across 24 districts and cities in East Java were affected by drought by early October 2026, while at least 150 forest and land fires burned an estimated 9,540 hectares. Deputy provincial assembly speaker Deni Wicaksono urged the governor to strengthen prevention, infrastructure and inter-agency coordination, and to direct more provincial budget spending towards reducing disaster risks.

Reporting to Prabowo, Luhut Says Subsidies Will No Longer Go to Products

Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan told President Prabowo that a digital social-protection portal, Perlinsos, is scheduled to launch on 10 November 2026 and will direct assistance to eligible recipients as cash transfers. The government plans to move away from product-based subsidies, while DEN officials say current fuel-price measures are intended to protect purchasing power and that longer-term reforms should make energy subsidies better targeted and fiscally sustainable.

Agoda and Emerging Travel Group enter strategic partnership

Agoda will integrate Emerging Travel Group’s global hotel inventory through the RateHawk API, adding millions of accommodation options across Europe, the Americas and the Middle East. The partnership is also intended to expand ETG’s reach in Asia-Pacific, where the company says bookings grew by an average of 30% in 2026.

Ride-Hailing Drivers Can Now Work Across Multiple Apps: Here Are the Rules

Presidential Regulation No. 27 of 2026 allows ride-hailing drivers to partner with one or more app companies, while requiring them to observe safety, security, service-quality and transport-technical standards. The regulation also sets out requirements for platform-driver partnerships and assigns ministries responsibilities for overseeing partnerships and setting transport and delivery tariffs.

Prosecutors Ask Judges to Reject Former Jampidsus Febrie Adriansyah’s Objection

Prosecutors have urged the Central Jakarta Corruption Court to reject Febrie Adriansyah’s objection to the indictment and proceed with the trial, arguing that his challenges concern the merits of the case. Febrie, charged with extortion and money laundering, has asked for the indictment to be annulled and for his release from detention.

Sports Minister Encourages Saptoyogo After He Wins Silver at Asian Para Games

Sports Minister Erick Thohir visited para-athlete Saptoyogo Purnomo after he won silver in the men’s 100m T37 final at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Para Games. Saptoyogo was urged to move on and focus ahead of his next final, the men’s 400m T37; Indonesia had won five gold medals by the third day of the Games.

PLN EPI Begins Supplying Bio-CNG to Belawan Combined-Cycle Power Plant in Medan

PLN Energi Primer Indonesia has begun contractually supplying bio-compressed natural gas (bio-CNG) to the Belawan power plant in North Sumatra, initially as a fuel blend with a contribution expected to be below 1–2 megawatts. The initiative tests the use of renewable biomethane made from organic waste and supports PLN EPI’s target of raising the bio-CNG mix to 10 per cent by 2030.

Army Chief Hopes STHM Graduates Will Be Integrity-Driven Legal Ambassadors

Army Chief of Staff General Tandyo Budi Revita has urged graduates of the Military Law College (STHM) to serve as professional, adaptable and ethical legal representatives wherever they are posted. He highlighted the implications of Indonesia’s new Criminal Code, emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, cybercrime and autonomous weapons, and shifting geopolitical and human rights challenges for military law.

Church in New Capital Planned as Indonesia’s First Basilica

Jakarta Archbishop Cardinal Ignatius Suharyo visited the St Francis Xavier Church in Nusantara, which is designed to become Indonesia’s first basilica and to embody cultural inculturation and interfaith harmony. The article also details ongoing IKN development, including public-private housing projects and private investments worth trillions of rupiah, alongside economic and infrastructure priorities.

Metro Jakarta Police Release Six Greenpeace Activists Who Hung Banner at HI

Metro Jakarta Police say six Greenpeace Indonesia activists were taken in for medical attention after climbing the Welcome Monument at Jakarta’s Hotel Indonesia Roundabout, and deny that they were arrested. Greenpeace says the activists were released after nearly 12 hours of questioning and says its peaceful protest sought to highlight the effects of the climate crisis and the rising cost of living.

Airlangga Reveals Indonesia’s Special Economic Zones Lag Far Behind Vietnam and Malaysia in Size

Coordinating Economic Affairs Minister Airlangga Hartarto said Indonesia’s special economic zones (SEZs) cover 24,000 hectares, compared with 1.8–2 million hectares in Vietnam and Malaysia, despite Indonesia’s larger land area. The country’s 25 SEZs have attracted Rp382.1 trillion in cumulative investment and employed more than 302,000 people; Airlangga also pointed to healthcare SEZs as a way to retain spending by Indonesians seeking treatment abroad.

Two Men in Deli Serdang Forced by Residents to Eat Raw Papaya Leaves

A video showing two men eating papaya leaves they allegedly stole from a resident’s garden in Deli Serdang has gone viral. Sunggal Police say they are investigating the incident and have spoken with the garden’s owner.

DayOne Upsizes Malaysia Financing to US$7.2 Billion as Billings Surpass 1GW and Bookings Reach 2.3GW

DayOne has increased its senior secured syndicated financing for its Johor data-centre platform to approximately US$7.2 billion, arranged by a seven-lender consortium. The company says it now has 1GW of capacity generating revenue under long-term contracts, 2.3GW in customer bookings and 1.1GW in reservations, reflecting expanding demand and investment in digital infrastructure.

Tourism Ministry and BPOLBF Promote Flores’ Mainland Attractions Through Familiarisation Trip

The Ministry of Tourism and the Labuan Bajo Flores Tourism Authority are using a familiarisation trip and business meetings to market mainland Flores to domestic travellers. The initiative aims to turn local experiences into market-ready itineraries, encourage longer stays and spread tourism’s economic benefits across more destinations.

Labuan Bajo Travel Agency Owner Accused of Defrauding Tourists Faces Four Years in Prison

Police have named Kristoforus Aman, owner of Labuan Bajo Top, a suspect in the alleged fraud of three Italian tourists involving a tour package worth Rp79.8 million. He faces up to four years in prison and has also faced allegations involving tourists from Malaysia, Singapore and China, after being released in an earlier case through restorative justice.

Lutfi Tells Malaysia to Look in the Mirror over Forest Fires and Investigate Companies

Former Trade Minister Muhammad Lutfi says haze from forest and land fires should not be used to justify calls to exclude Indonesia from ASEAN, pointing instead to the role of Malaysian-linked palm oil companies operating in Indonesia. He argues that Indonesia’s push to process more palm oil domestically has disrupted cheap crude palm oil supplies to overseas refineries, and urges scrutiny of specific companies and their supply chains rather than blaming an entire country.

Police Chief Says Pondok Cabe Police Shooting Case Is Being Handled by Internal Affairs

National Police Chief Suyudi Ario Seto says the fatal shooting of Bharatu Laurentius Valdo Fernandes at the Pondok Cabe police base is under investigation by the force’s internal affairs division, Propam. Separately, South Jakarta police have named Bharada Andika Rahmadani as a suspect and detained him while investigating the shooting’s motive and other circumstances.

Forestry Ministry Involves Fire Watch Groups and Forest Farmer Groups in Tackling Forest and Land Fires

The Forestry Ministry is working with community fire-watch groups, forest farmer groups, Indigenous communities and volunteers to detect and tackle fires, with 14,040 community personnel operating across 34 provinces. It is also expanding community groups and strengthening prevention, while 32 companies have received administrative sanctions and criminal proceedings are under way against 125 legal entities or individuals over fires.

How Dry Ice Works to Combat Haze from Forest and Land Fires

Indonesia’s government agencies are using dry-ice seeding in weather-modification operations to address atmospheric conditions that trap smoke from forest and land fires over Sumatra and Kalimantan. The approach aims to break up inversion layers and improve visibility and PM2.5 levels, helping aerial firefighting and civilian aviation, although results depend on atmospheric and fire conditions.

Motorcycle Gang Leader Accused of Orchestrating Man’s Killing After Being Overtaken During Convoy

An 18-year-old was killed and his 21-year-old companion injured in an attack by a motorcycle gang in Polewali Mandar, West Sulawesi, after they reportedly overtook the gang’s convoy. Police have named three suspects, including the leader of the CMP Brutal gang, and allege two members kicked the victims’ motorcycle, causing it to crash.

Presidential Advisory Council Member Jonan Offers Recommendations on Indonesia-Malaysia-Singapore Forest Fires

Presidential Advisory Council member Ignasius Jonan has urged Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore to strengthen cooperation against forest and land fires that cause transboundary haze. He called for renewed use of the ASEAN haze agreement, preventive measures and coordinated enforcement that holds both companies and individuals accountable without countries shifting blame.

Response to KMP Batumandi Fire Reported Complete, SAR Team Remains on Standby

A fire broke out aboard the KMP Batumandi while it was sailing from Bakauheni to Merak, prompting the evacuation of all 460 passengers and crew. Eleven people required further medical treatment, while authorities said the response was complete and SAR teams remained on standby as the cause of the fire was investigated.

Protecting the Middle Class Before Shocks Become Setbacks

Indonesia’s middle-class population has continued to shrink, with the number falling to about 46.7 million in 2025, but leaving the statistical category does not necessarily mean falling into poverty. The article argues that policy should identify households experiencing setbacks and provide support early, recognising that resilience depends on factors such as dependants, debt, liquid savings and job security.

Transport Ministry strengthens Nunbaun Sabu Port services through land grant

The Transport Ministry says a land grant from Kupang City Government will support the development of facilities and maritime connectivity at Nunbaun Sabu Port in East Nusa Tenggara. The handover formalises a grant process that has been under way since 2012 and reflects cooperation between central and regional governments to improve port services.

Six Activists Released After Unfurling Banner at HI Roundabout; Greenpeace Promises Further Action

Police released six Greenpeace activists on Tuesday night after they unfurled a critical banner at the Welcome Monument in Jakarta’s HI Roundabout. Greenpeace says it will continue staging actions to voice public concerns, citing research showing that climate change is affecting Indonesians’ food costs, incomes and living expenses.

Video: Houthi Attacks Escalate, Brent Crude Tops US$110 a Barrel

Escalating Houthi attacks and wider Middle East conflict fears drove global crude prices higher, with Brent reaching US$110 a barrel and WTI US$98.90. At 10.03am on Wednesday, Indonesia’s benchmark stock index had fallen 1.04% to 5,223, while the rupiah edged up 0.08% to Rp17,965 per US dollar; coal remained near US$150 per tonne despite a correction.