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Found 580,820 articles

Education Ministry Reschedules Academic Test in Central Kalimantan in Response to Forest and Land Fires

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has moved the Academic Competency Test for all senior secondary schools in Central Kalimantan to a make-up period because forest and land fires are disrupting learning and assessment. South Kalimantan, also affected by fires, is seeking partial rescheduling based on conditions at individual schools.

Short of Cash, Elon Musk Borrows Rp724,460 Trillion to Buy Chips

SpaceX has reportedly agreed to borrow US$40 billion to buy Nvidia GPUs for its artificial intelligence operations, with the chips expected to arrive in the first half of 2027. The financing is structured through a special-purpose vehicle, while revenue from Starlink and rocket launches is cited as support for repayment; Musk also warned that many AI-focused cloud infrastructure providers may fail or merge amid intense competition for funding.

UMS Marks 68th Anniversary with Strategic Plan Indicators 113.3% Achieved

Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta (UMS) reported average achievement of 113.3% across measurable indicators in its 2025/2026 strategic plan, with more than 31,000 students and 75% of its study programmes accredited as Excellent. University leaders outlined priorities including strengthening research, employability, financial independence and infrastructure, while government and Muhammadiyah figures highlighted academic freedom and collaboration in developing Indonesia’s maritime potential.

Healthy, Strong Balance Sheet: Bank Mandiri Posts Rp45.5 Trillion Profit Through Third Quarter of 2026

Bank Mandiri reported consolidated net profit of Rp45.5 trillion through September 2026, up 20.7% year on year, as lending, digital transactions and operating productivity improved. The lender also highlighted expansion in ecosystem-based finance and bullion services, alongside stronger asset quality, a 36.1% cost-to-income ratio and a 23.6% return on equity.

New Zealand strengthens naval fleet with US-made Seahawk helicopters

New Zealand has agreed to buy MH-60R Seahawk maritime helicopters from the United States, with deliveries due to begin in 2030. The NZ$1.648 billion capital investment includes weapons and support equipment, while operating costs are budgeted at an average NZ$110 million a year for the next decade.

Former Finance Minister Says Indonesia’s Research Budget Is Only About 0.3% of GDP

Former finance and research minister Bambang Brodjonegoro says Indonesia’s research and development (R&D) investment was only around 0.3% of GDP during his tenure, far below levels in regional and global innovation leaders. He argues that significantly greater R&D spending and technology adoption are essential for Indonesia to raise productivity and move towards high-income status amid changing economic and geopolitical conditions.

OJK extends share buyback policy without GMS approval until June 2027

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has extended the period in which listed companies can buy back shares without approval from a General Meeting of Shareholders (GMS), moving the deadline from December 2026 to June 2027. The extension responds to issuers’ requests and is intended to give companies more time to carry out buybacks, while remaining subject to regulatory requirements, including minimum free-float obligations.

Bali Launches Agung Traffic Compliance Operation, Deploying 1,055 Police Officers

Bali police and district forces have begun a 14-day traffic operation involving 1,055 officers, running from 26 October to 8 November 2026. The campaign aims to improve compliance with traffic rules, reduce crashes and fatalities, and foster safer road behaviour, with support from transport and other agencies.

BP Batam prioritises infrastructure quality and public services

BP Batam says it is prioritising the upkeep and development of essential infrastructure, including works at 182 locations, an integrated school in Rempang and expanded air links through Hang Nadim International Airport. It will use non-tax state revenue to fund strategic-area development and services without additional funding from the national budget.

Habiburokhman Appointed Chair of Asset Forfeiture Bill Working Committee

Habiburokhman has been appointed to lead the parliamentary working committee discussing the Asset Forfeiture Bill, with Soedeson Tandra as deputy chair. The committee has brought forward public hearings to help meet Parliament’s pledge to pass the bill by 15 December 2026, amid calls for greater transparency and debate over its provisions and scope.

Riau Police Stress ‘Police with the Community’ Message During Traffic Operation, Warn Against Illegal Payments

Riau Deputy Police Chief Brigadier General Simson Zet Ringu has urged officers involved in Operation Patuh Lancang Kuning 2026 to serve motorists humanely and professionally, while avoiding extortion and other conduct that could undermine public trust. The 971-person operation will target 10 common traffic violations, with officials saying its success should be measured by improved road safety and public awareness as well as enforcement.

Motorcyclist Attacks Car Driver at Dalung Junction

A motorcyclist allegedly assaulted a car driver after their vehicles sideswiped near a traffic light in Dalung, Badung, Bali. Police and emergency services responded after the incident went viral online, and officers are searching for the unidentified suspect.

Indonesia steps up measures to tackle stock-market manipulation after MSCI warning

Indonesia’s stock exchange and financial regulator are introducing stronger oversight measures, including independent members on a committee monitoring concentrated share ownership and investigations into suspected coordinated trading. The steps follow MSCI’s warning that Indonesia could lose emerging-market status, which triggered a sharp sell-off, as authorities seek to reassure global index providers and investors about market transparency.

Pramono to Meet Finance Minister to Discuss Jakarta Bond Issuance

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo plans to meet Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara to discuss the capital’s proposed municipal bond issuance, which still requires full approval from the central government. He argues Jakarta’s orderly budget management makes it better placed than some other regions to issue bonds, while stressing that the provincial government will comply with the centre’s decision.

Rice Self-Sufficiency and Investor Confidence: Turning Achievements into Economic Sovereignty

Indonesia’s rising rice production and record Bulog reserves are presented as strategic gains, but the article argues that food security must translate into affordable prices and better livelihoods for farmers. It also highlights major international investment commitments, stressing that these must become realised projects that create quality jobs, transfer technology and strengthen domestic industry.

Indonesia Has Bioethanol Plant Capacity of 70,500 KL, Ready to Introduce E10 Fuel in 2027

Indonesia is preparing to make petrol blended with 10% bioethanol (E10) mandatory in 2027, but current ethanol supplies stand at only 70,500 kilolitres. Energy officials say at least 400,000–500,000 kilolitres would be needed for a potential E20 blend in 2028, while the government is planning 11 new ethanol plants and supporting the revival of existing facilities.

BPS records slight 0.16% rise in medium- and premium-grade rice prices

Indonesia’s national prices for medium- and premium-grade rice each rose 0.16% in the fourth week of October 2026, according to Statistics Indonesia (BPS). Although the national increase was modest, prices climbed sharply in some districts, while the average medium-grade price of Rp14,677 per kilogram exceeded the maximum retail prices set for zones 1 and 2.

Danantara Opens Door to Strategic Partners to Develop Downstream Nickel Industry

Danantara Indonesia is seeking strategic investors from multiple countries to help develop Indonesia’s downstream nickel industry and an integrated electric vehicle battery ecosystem. The proposed value chain spans nickel processing through battery production, but will require substantial capital and reliable raw material supplies.

DPR Forms Working Committee on Asset Forfeiture Bill, with Habiburokhman Leading Talks and a 15 December Target

Commission III of the House of Representatives has formed a working committee to deliberate the asset forfeiture bill, appointing Habiburokhman as chair and Soedeson Tandra as deputy. The committee will bring forward public hearings and consult 20 groups as it works towards completing the bill by 15 December 2026.

IDX Targets Manipulators’ Accounts: An Effective Way to Combat Market-Rigged Stocks?

The Indonesia Stock Exchange plans to reduce stock suspensions and instead freeze securities accounts suspected of transaction violations, while expanding its independent High Shareholding Concentration (HSC) assessment committee. The changes could preserve trading access for uninvolved investors and bolster oversight, but their effectiveness will depend on consistent decisions, sound implementation and maintaining market liquidity.

Video: MSCI Turmoil — Will Selling Pressure on Banking Stocks Continue?

Global markets are watching the US Federal Reserve’s 27–28 October FOMC meeting, with investors expecting rates to remain at 3.75–4% after a September increase, while a further rise in December remains possible. Continued foreign selling linked to MSCI’s assessment, alongside concerns over Indonesia’s budget deficit, is weighing on the Jakarta Composite Index and the rupiah, although domestic buying has partly cushioned the declines.

Study Finds Nearly Half of Kredivo’s First-Time Credit Users Are Women

Kredivo’s Social and Economic Impact Report says the number of people gaining access to credit for the first time through the platform has risen tenfold since 2019, with women accounting for 48%. The report also links productive credit access among women with stronger bargaining power at home, while highlighting the need for responsible lending and financial literacy as digital borrowing expands.

ATR/BPN records 576 RDTRs integrated with OSS, while LP2B proposals reach 87.93% in 2026

Indonesia’s Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning Ministry says 576 Detailed Spatial Plans (RDTRs) are now integrated with the Online Single Submission (OSS) business-licensing system, up from 268 over the past two years. Proposals to designate sustainable food-agriculture land (LP2B) have reached 87.93% of the country’s mapped paddy-field area, exceeding the 87% target set for 2029 and reaching it ahead of schedule.

DPR Agrees to Form Asset Forfeiture Bill Working Committee, Chaired by Habiburokhman

The House of Representatives’ Commission III has agreed to establish a working committee to deliberate the Asset Forfeiture Bill, appointing commission chair Habiburokhman as its head and Soedeson Tandra as deputy. Hearings will begin during the current recess rather than in November, with the aim of completing the bill by 15 December 2026.

Singapore embassy denies claims that Indonesian figures met ambassador

Singapore’s embassy in Jakarta has called social media claims that former deputy foreign minister Dino Patti Djalal and political science professor Saiful Mujani met Ambassador Kwok Fook Seng “clearly disinformation”, saying no meeting took place. The allegations, denied by both men, surfaced amid online tensions over Indonesia-Singapore relations and claims involving Singaporean investors and Indonesia’s stock market.

IDX Reshuffles HSC Committee, Bringing in Former Deputy Finance Minister and Chapman Taylor

The Indonesia Stock Exchange has expanded its High Shareholding Concentration Committee from members drawn solely from self-regulatory organisations to include independent industry, academic and investor representatives. The move is intended to strengthen governance and transparency, including in the methodology for determining which shares enter or leave the Jakarta Composite Index.

South Korean-owned Shoe Factory in Lebak Closes, 1,100 Workers Laid Off

PT Parkland World Indonesia has closed its shoe factory in Lebak, Banten, after its building lease expired and was not renewed, leaving about 1,100 employees affected by layoffs. The company is reportedly set to resume operations elsewhere, while local authorities are seeking new investment to replace the jobs lost.

House Commission III Speeds Up Asset Forfeiture Bill, Invites Students and Lawyers

The House of Representatives’ Commission III has brought forward public hearings on the Asset Forfeiture Bill during the parliamentary recess, inviting 20 groups including student organisations, academics and lawyers. It aims to secure passage of the bill by 15 December 2026 and has established a working committee to oversee its deliberations.

Thousands of Squishy Toys Worth Rp267 Million Seized: What Happened?

Malaysia seized 5,801 squishy toys worth RM70,428 (about Rp267 million) for lacking the required Safety Compliance Mark. The operation inspected 1,845 businesses and forms part of enforcement efforts under Malaysia’s Consumer Protection Act 1999 to ensure toys meet safety standards and protect children.

East Jakarta Municipal Government Catches 25 Illegal Dumpers in Kramat Jati

Kramat Jati authorities caught 25 people dumping rubbish illegally along Jalan Raya Bogor during an overnight enforcement operation. The offenders were fined a total of Rp1.4 million, which was paid into the regional treasury, and officials said they would continue enforcement alongside public education efforts.

Saudi Arabia Intercepts Missile After Houthis Renew Attack on Riyadh Airport

The Saudi-led coalition says it intercepted a ballistic missile fired towards Riyadh and destroyed two Houthi missile launchers in Yemen. The Houthis claim to have renewed attacks on Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport after flights resumed, while warning airlines and travellers to avoid the airport amid escalating hostilities following the collapse of a long-running ceasefire.

Kementrans: Patriot Expedition Team Makes Scholarship Services More Accessible

The Ministry of Transmigration says an ITS-led Patriot Expedition Team has made applications for the Affirmation and Higher Education Scholarship (ADiK) easier for students in South Manokwari, West Papua. An online form and school-based assistance are intended to reduce travel costs and help raise the region’s historically low number of applicants.

BYD Driver Admits to Running Over Ride-Hailing Driver in Blok M After Losing Concentration

Police say the BYD driver involved in a crash that damaged several vehicles and injured a ride-hailing motorcyclist admitted to being drowsy and distracted. The driver has been named a suspect, while investigators are examining whether the car’s accelerator or brakes had a technical problem; the injured motorcyclist suffered a broken leg.

OJK Outlines Three Types of Capital Market Crime, from Share Manipulation to Misleading Information

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) says suspected capital market offences may be referred for criminal proceedings when its investigations uncover sufficient evidence. The three forms highlighted include market manipulation, coordinated transactions that create abnormal share prices, and the spread of false or misleading information that could distort investors’ decisions.

Video: No Need to Go to Korea—Indonesia Has World-Class Plastic Surgery Services

A Seoul Jakarta Plastic Surgery Clinic doctor says economic recovery, growing demand for aesthetic treatments and advances in technology are driving Indonesia’s beauty and medical services businesses. Dermaster says it is providing locally accessible aesthetic care and plastic surgery intended to meet standards comparable to those in South Korea, where many Indonesians travel for such procedures.

Pegadaian launches ‘Badai Emas 2026’ programme, offering customers 1.88kg of gold in prizes

Pegadaian’s Badai Emas 2026 sweepstake will run nationwide from 25 October to 31 December, with prizes awarded as balances in Gold Savings accounts. The programme offers a total of 1.88kg of gold across weekly, monthly and grand-prize draws, while encouraging customers to use the Tring! digital app and setting transaction or account-balance criteria for eligibility.

Bone Fragments of Dini and Her Child, Murdered and Burnt by Her Unregistered Husband, Still Being Sought

East Java police are searching for bone fragments from Dini Hardiyanti and her four-year-old son, who were allegedly killed by Dwi Bagus in Madiun. Investigators say the bodies were reportedly burnt twice and put through a meat grinder, while police have secured other evidence and continue searching near the crime scene.

Indonesia condemns deadly attack on Jordanian church

Indonesia condemned an armed attack on St George’s Greek Orthodox Church in Karak, Jordan, that killed nine people and injured 34, expressing condolences and solidarity with Jordan. The Foreign Ministry said Indonesia’s embassy in Amman was monitoring developments and coordinating with local authorities to help ensure the safety of Indonesian citizens.

Planting Trees to Protect Water Sources Earns Central Java DPRD Speaker an Award

Central Java DPRD Speaker Sumanto has been recognised for launching the Merawat Pertiwi tree-planting initiative, which aims to conserve water and reduce the risk of drought. The award was presented at the detikJateng-detikJogja Awards, an event that also highlighted Central Java’s investment prospects and reported Rp 88.50 trillion in realised investment in 2025.

Pair Arrested by Bekasi Residents After Attempting to Snatch Child’s Phone

Two men were arrested after allegedly trying to snatch a child’s mobile phone in a quiet residential street in South Bekasi; the failed attempt was captured on CCTV and went viral. Police said the suspects and evidence are now at Bekasi Selatan Police Station as the investigation continues, and urged residents to report suspicious activity or crimes.

IDX Delivers Good News from FTSE Russell: Indonesia’s Status Is Safe

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) says FTSE Russell has praised recent capital-market reforms and confirmed that Indonesia remains a Secondary Emerging Market, without being placed on its watchlist. The IDX says it will continue reforms focused on transparency, liquidity and more effective trading surveillance to bolster investor confidence and market governance.

Pramono: Jakarta Already Has a Programme to Renovate Uninhabitable Homes

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung says the provincial government already runs a programme to renovate residents’ uninhabitable homes. The initiative is being carried out in cooperation with the Ministry of Housing and other relevant agencies as part of efforts to improve housing quality.

Bareskrim: Nearly 50% of PT DSI Victims’ Claims Could Be Recovered from Rp500bn in Seized Assets

Indonesia’s National Police Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim) says it has traced and seized assets worth more than Rp500 billion in the alleged fraud and embezzlement case involving PT Dana Syariah Indonesia. This is nearly half the Rp1.07 trillion in restitution calculated for 5,102 victims, though recovery will depend on the legal process; investigators have seized or blocked 110 assets and Rp5.4 billion linked to a former OJK official among other measures.

Operation Patuh Jaya 2026: Offenders Face Electronic and Manual Fines

Jakarta Metro Police will use both electronic traffic enforcement (ETLE) and manual fines during the 14-day Operation Patuh Jaya 2026, while treating enforcement as a last resort and prioritising education. Nearly 3,000 personnel will target dangerous violations, including riding without a certified helmet, using a phone while driving and running red lights.

Riyadh Embassy Issues Notice to Indonesians About Flights at Saudi Airport

Indonesia’s embassy in Riyadh says King Khalid International Airport reopened on 25 October, with separate terminals for domestic and international flights operated by Saudi national carriers. It has urged Indonesian citizens to confirm flights directly with airlines, allow extra time at the airport and avoid the surrounding area unless travel is essential, amid heightened security concerns following Houthi attacks.

BPS: Red Chilli Prices Rise in 327 Regencies and Cities

Statistics Indonesia (BPS) says red chilli prices rose in 327 regencies and cities in the fourth week of October 2026, with the national average up 23.47% from September and above the government reference price. Bird’s eye chilli prices also climbed, reaching an average of Rp88,642 per kilogram, with nearly all monitored areas above the reference price.

Video: What Could Happen to the JCI and Rupiah if the Fed Holds or Raises Interest Rates?

Global markets are watching the Federal Reserve’s 27–28 October FOMC meeting, with investors expecting rates to remain at 3.75%–4% after a September increase, though another rise in December remains possible. CNBC Indonesia Research analyst Elvan Chandra Widyatama says further US rate rises could prolong foreign capital outflows from Indonesia, adding pressure on the JCI and rupiah amid concerns over the state budget and MSCI-related selling.

DPR Commission III Forms Working Committee on Asset Forfeiture Bill, Habiburokhman to Chair

DPR Commission III has formed a working committee to discuss the Asset Forfeiture Bill, appointing commission chair Habiburokhman as its head and Soedeson Tandra as deputy. The commission has brought forward public hearings to the current parliamentary recess, aiming to pass the bill by 15 December 2026, with students and legal experts among those taking part.

Pramono to Meet Finance Minister to Discuss Jakarta Bond Plans

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung is due to meet Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara to discuss the provincial government’s plan to issue bonds. The proposed regional bonds could help fund infrastructure projects, but their issuance depends on approval from the central government.

Lexus Reveals the Meaning of RX to Distinguish It from Other Models

Lexus says RX stands for “Radiant Crossover”, a name intended to position the vehicle between a luxury saloon and an off-road-capable vehicle. The article traces the RX’s history and explains that Lexus model numbers do not necessarily correspond to engine capacity, while other model names describe their intended character.

Natuna’s Selat Lampa Port receives code for export-import trade

Selat Lampa Port in Natuna has received a port code, allowing it to operate as an export-import gateway and strengthening the district’s plans to expand international trade. The development follows ministry approval for export-import activities, ongoing infrastructure upgrades backed by more than Rp20 billion in central government funding, and the establishment of a local agency authorised to issue export certificates of origin.

MUI Warns Andrea Bocelli Concert Could Trigger Social Clashes

MUI official Sudarnoto Abdul Hakim has urged the government to weigh public sensitivities over Palestine when deciding whether to proceed with Andrea Bocelli’s planned Indonesian concert. He cited growing opposition and discussions of demonstrations near Borobudur, warning that tensions could escalate and damage Indonesia’s social cohesion and pro-Palestinian reputation.

Finalists for the 2026 and 2025 BSA Attend Public Relations Training

Twenty sub-district heads who are finalists in the 2026 and 2025 Benyamin S Award are taking part in public relations training organised in Central Jakarta. The programme aims to strengthen their ability to engage residents, manage official communication channels and plan stakeholder-focused initiatives as part of the award’s broader effort to improve local areas.

On Its 64th Anniversary, FEB UMI Strengthens Eastern Indonesia’s Economic Competitiveness Through Industry Collaboration and Professional Certification

The Faculty of Economics and Business at Universitas Muslim Indonesia marked its 64th anniversary with a public lecture, a cooperation agreement with PT Semen Tonasa, and the launch of professional examination and certification facilities. The initiatives aim to bring academic learning closer to industry needs and equip graduates in Eastern Indonesia with skills to compete in global markets.

Pramono Opens Taman Sari Community Health Centre with Maternity Facilities and a Gym for Older People

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has opened a new community health centre in West Jakarta, designed to serve about 124,500 people and handle an average of 500 visits a day. The centre offers maternal and child care, 24-hour services and facilities for older residents, while the former premises will become a satellite health centre.

Indonesia Cuts Gas Exports for This Reason as Industry Minister Promises Swift Action

Indonesia has begun reducing gas supplies to Singapore, redirecting some volumes to domestic power generation in line with the government’s priority to meet national needs. Industry Minister M Sarmuji backs the policy but says the government must also secure adequate, competitively priced gas for manufacturers, which continue to face supply shortfalls.

Narrow-Lane Mechanic Shocked to Find Himself Listed as McLaren Owner; Samsat Suspects Leasing Fraud

A Tangerang mechanic says he was stunned to discover that a McLaren was registered in his name and carried Rp137.44 million in unpaid vehicle tax. A local Samsat official suspects a leasing company or showroom may have misused the mechanic’s personal data, although the circumstances have not yet been established.

IDX Expands HSC Committee to Include Foreign Investors and Academics

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) has expanded its High Shareholding Concentration (HSC) Committee from representatives of self-regulatory organisations to nine members, including independent market participants, governance experts, academics and a foreign investor. The move is intended to strengthen governance and decision-making on which shares are added to or removed from the HSC list; 88 stocks have been listed during 2026, with 85 still holding HSC status for April to October.

Ciledug Samsat Blocks McLaren Records Over Rp137 Million in Unpaid Tax

Ciledug’s regional vehicle tax office has blocked the registration data for a 2019 McLaren 570S Coupe after finding that it was allegedly registered using the identity of a local mechanic. The car has reportedly accumulated two years of unpaid tax totalling Rp137 million, and the block is intended to prevent the mechanic from being held responsible or having his identity misused.

Pramono confirms patients without Jakarta ID cards will be treated at Taman Sari community health centre

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo said Taman Sari community health centre will treat patients regardless of whether they hold a Jakarta identity card, including people affected by volcanic ash and forest-fire smoke. The newly inaugurated facility can serve around 124,500 people and is supported by five auxiliary health centres and 63 integrated health posts.

Pertamina Patra Niaga Expands Market Access for 32 MSMEs through Pertamina SMEXPO Cirebon 2026

Pertamina Patra Niaga’s SMEXPO Cirebon 2026 is showcasing 32 curated MSMEs, offering promotion, sales and business-matching opportunities. The event, held for the first time in Cirebon, aims to connect local products with new consumers and partners, supporting business growth and the regional economy.

Worse Than Google: ChatGPT Knows Everything About You

A study of ChatGPT conversation histories found that the system creates detailed memories about users, including personal information and psychological assessments, often without their explicit request. Researchers warn that inferred profiles could reinforce users’ existing beliefs and affect real-world decisions, while the article outlines how users can disable or delete stored memories.

Bank Sultra Disburses Rp20.55 Billion in Construction Loans for KNMP Development

Bank Sultra has made Rp20.55 billion available in construction working-capital loans for the Kampung Nelayan Merah Putih (KNMP) programme in Southeast Sulawesi, where 19 project packages have been contracted at a combined value of Rp203.77 billion. A further Rp12.95 billion is being processed for four project packages, supporting the government’s effort to improve coastal infrastructure and strengthen local fishing economies.

Expert: Legal Certainty and Prevention Must Be Strengthened to Tackle Forest and Land Fires

A legal expert says Indonesia must pair enforcement with stronger prevention and land governance to address recurring forest and land fires. MapBiomass data indicate that about 83 per cent of burned land from January to August 2026 was outside company concessions, raising questions about approaches focused mainly on companies and the effectiveness of strict liability claims.

Get Ready: Registration for MagangHub Batch 3 Participants Opens from 27 October to 4 November 2026

The Ministry of Manpower will open registration for the third batch of its National Apprenticeship Programme from 27 October to 4 November 2026, with eligibility checks available to applicants during this period. Companies can register as programme partners until 29 October, and approved employers’ vacancies will be published on MagangHub on 30 October.

Central Jakarta Police seize 1.5kg of crystal meth from two suspects in Kebon Jeruk

Central Jakarta Metro Police have seized 1,599 grams of crystal meth and arrested two men in Sukabumi Utara, Kebon Jeruk, West Jakarta. Police estimate the haul could have prevented narcotics abuse affecting about 3,300 people; the suspects face charges under Indonesia’s Narcotics Law and Criminal Code.

JK Says He Believes Jokowi’s Degree Is Genuine: ‘Just Show It; I’m Defending Him’

Former vice-president Jusuf Kalla says he believes Joko Widodo’s university degree is genuine, but questions why the former president has not shown it publicly amid continuing controversy. Kalla says his comments were intended to defend Jokowi and denies sharing the view of Roy Suryo, who has claimed the degree is fake.

E20 Petrol Blend Planned for 2028 as Indonesia Prepares 11 New Bioethanol Plants

Indonesia is planning to introduce petrol blended with 20% ethanol (E20) in 2028, a policy that will require 400,000–500,000 kilolitres of ethanol, well above current supplies of 70,500 kilolitres. The government says 11 new plants are being planned, while it prepares a 10% bioethanol blending mandate for 2027.

Children Who Bullied Peers in Central Kalimantan Ordered to Perform Church Service for Three Months

A court in Kuala Kurun, Central Kalimantan, reached a diversion agreement in a child-protection case involving children who participated in violence against another child. They must perform three hours of community service at a local church on Saturdays and Sundays for three months, following the victim’s parents’ request for a deterrent measure.

Dasco Wants Indonesia to Set Its Own Capital Market Rating; OJK Responds

Deputy House Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad has called for Indonesia to determine its own rating for its capital market, amid concerns over MSCI’s proposal to downgrade the market from emerging to standalone status. OJK capital markets chief Hasan Fawzi said he had not yet reviewed Dasco’s remarks but welcomed constructive ideas and said further coordination could follow.

Audi to Invest More Than Rp72 Trillion in US Factory

Audi is reported to be investing US$4 billion to build its first US vehicle plant in Georgia, with annual capacity of up to 200,000 units and production expected to begin in the early 2030s. The facility is intended to strengthen the company’s North American position, limit exposure to import tariffs and create about 4,500 jobs.

PDI-P and Gerindra Respond to Controversy over Vice-President Gibran’s Diploma

PDI-P’s Hasto Kristiyanto said the Constitutional Court ruling on the challenge to Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s educational credentials undermines his legitimacy and places a burden on President Prabowo Subianto. Gerindra legislator Azis Subekti countered that the President cannot dismiss the Vice-President and that removal must follow the constitutional impeachment process; the court rejected the petition because the applicants lacked legal standing, while referring the matter to other authorised institutions.

Wildfire That Destroyed Stone Tombs in North Toraja Suspected to Have Been Deliberately Started

A wildfire that damaged forest and land in North Toraja, South Sulawesi, also burned several ancient cliffside stone tombs and reportedly affected some coffins. Local officials said residents saw someone starting the fire, but the suspected arsonist has not been identified.

Police Deploy Brimob and Criminal Investigation Officers to Tackle Forest and Land Fires

Indonesia’s National Police have deployed 200 Brimob personnel and 10 officers from its Criminal Investigation Agency to respond to forest and land fires in East and Central Kalimantan. Brimob teams will assist firefighting and prevention, while investigators will examine suspected criminal causes and identify those responsible if offences are found.

Germany Seeks Hundreds of Combat Drones as Airbus Gets a Head Start

Germany is weighing a purchase of up to 500 jet-powered unmanned combat aircraft to operate alongside crewed fighters, although procurement numbers and timelines remain unsettled. Airbus and Kratos have completed the first European flight of the U740 Valkyrie, giving Airbus a testing milestone as it competes with Rheinmetall, Boeing and Helsing for a potentially multi-billion-euro programme.

How to Use the DJP’s Latest Tax Penalty Relief through Coretax

Indonesia’s Directorate General of Taxes (DJP) has introduced a programme to reduce or waive certain administrative tax penalties under Decision KEP-239/PJ/2026, with applications submitted through the Coretax system. The measure does not cancel outstanding tax principal or constitute a new tax amnesty; the level of relief depends on when taxpayers act, with the highest reduction available through the end of 2026.

Ramadan Insight: Telkomsel Enterprise Helps Brands Find Their Golden Moments

Telkomsel Enterprise’s Ramadan Insight 2027 report identifies three distinct consumer rhythms during Ramadan, from early-month inspiration to mid-month shopping and the final days of travel and family gatherings. The findings outline opportunities for brands to target campaigns more relevantly, while DigiAds offers advertising solutions informed by aggregated, anonymised telco data.

Pramono Opens Taman Sari Community Health Centre with Expanded Facilities

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has opened a new, larger Taman Sari community health centre in West Jakarta, offering services for pregnant women, infants and older people. The centre can serve around 124,500 residents and receives an average of 500 patients a day; its former site will continue operating as a satellite health centre.

Man Brutally Kills Unregistered Wife and Child After Row at Ayam Penyet Restaurant

Police say Dwi Bagus killed his unregistered wife, Dini Hardiyanti, and their four-year-old child after an argument at an ayam penyet restaurant in Ponorogo. Investigators say he later burned and ground the bodies, have recovered some evidence and are searching for additional remains, while examining whether anyone else was involved.

Investment Reaches Rp1,539 Trillion, but Only 200,000–300,000 Formal Jobs Created

Indonesia’s investment realisation reached Rp1,539.2 trillion in January–September 2026, up 7.3% year on year and equal to 75.4% of the national target. Yet only an estimated 200,000–300,000 of around 1.4 million jobs created in the first half of the year were formal, raising concerns about job quality, household consumption and the tax base.

Trade Ministry: Sugar Prices in Maluku-Papua 22.33% Above Reference Price

The Trade Ministry reported that average sugar prices in Maluku and Papua reached Rp22,632 per kilogram in the fourth week of October 2026, 22.33% above the government reference price. It called for state-owned food companies to distribute sugar and for the Government Sugar Reserve to be deployed, particularly in eastern Indonesia and remote regions where prices remain high.

Stressed Juvenile Silvered Leaf Monkey Found by Roadside in Prabumulih

Residents in Prabumulih, South Sumatra, found a juvenile silvered leaf monkey alone by the roadside, apparently separated from its mother and troop. The protected animal has been rescued by the South Sumatra Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA) and will undergo rehabilitation and further observation after showing mild stress.

Rupiah Weakens Further as US Dollar Reaches Rp18,120

The rupiah continued to lose ground against the US dollar, which reached Rp18,120 by 11.00 WIB after opening at Rp18,050. Market attention is focused on Bank Indonesia’s response to pressure linked to MSCI sentiment, while global oil prices, Middle East tensions and key US economic announcements are also influencing trading.

Manpower Minister Urges Unions to Help Oversee Implementation of New Employment Protection Law

Manpower Minister Yassierli has called on trade unions to work with the government to oversee implementation of the newly enacted Employment Protection Law. Passed by the House of Representatives on 6 October 2026, the law follows a Constitutional Court ruling on the labour cluster and is intended to support a fairer, more inclusive and productive employment ecosystem.

AiMOGA introduces Mobo, an intelligent robot companion for families

AiMOGA, a robotics company under Chery Group, has unveiled Mobo, a humanoid family companion capable of handling up to 16 tasks in parallel and responding to interruptions in less than 0.2 seconds. The launch also featured MoAgent, technology designed to help robots interpret situations, coordinate tasks and adapt their responses as conditions change.

Baznas runs oxygen health centre and deploys personnel to fight fires

Baznas says its oxygen centre in Central Kalimantan has served 261 people, while the agency deployed 70 personnel to fight fires across five provinces. It has also provided medical support, masks, food, water and other supplies to affected residents and firefighting volunteers as fires continue to recur in Palangka Raya.

Arab Parties Could Hold the Balance in Israel’s 27 October Election

Israel’s Arab parties are forecast to win 16 seats in the 27 October election, potentially determining whether Benjamin Netanyahu returns to power as neither major bloc is expected to secure a parliamentary majority. Their influence depends on whether anti-Netanyahu parties are willing to include them in a coalition, despite a longstanding reluctance among Jewish-majority political parties to do so.

JCI and Rupiah Weaken in Tandem as Investors Watch Fed Policy

Indonesia’s benchmark JCI and the LQ45 index fell as investors awaited the Federal Reserve’s rate decision and guidance, against a backdrop of geopolitical tensions and weaker global markets. Domestic factors include the proposed B50 biodiesel mandate, Danantara’s SOE profitability target and Fitch’s forecast that Indonesian growth will slow to 5.2% in 2026.

Man in Palangka Raya Raises Rp 8 Million for Forest and Land Fire Relief, Turns Out to Be a Fraudster

A 24-year-old man in Palangka Raya allegedly collected around Rp 8 million over three weeks by soliciting donations for forest and land fire response while falsely claiming to represent a local organisation. Police intervened after residents challenged him and he was nearly subjected to mob justice; he has been taken in for questioning and a medical examination.

Jordan Arrests Three Suspects over Church Shooting

Jordanian security forces have arrested three suspects in connection with a shooting at a Greek Orthodox church that killed at least nine people and injured 25. The suspects were wounded in a gunfight during their arrest; authorities have not identified any militant affiliation, and no group has claimed responsibility.

Singapore Calls on Suppliers to Honour Contracts After Indonesia Cuts Gas Exports

Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong urged suppliers to honour commercial contracts after Indonesia cut pipeline gas exports by about 31 million British thermal units per day to prioritise domestic demand. The reduction accounts for less than 2% of Singapore’s gas needs, but the dispute highlights the city-state’s reliance on regional pipeline supplies and Indonesia’s push to secure energy for domestic use.

Pramono Says JRF and Ye Concert Generated Rp625bn in Economic Impact

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung says the 2026 Jakarta Running Festival and a concert by Ye generated an estimated combined economic impact of Rp625 billion. The estimate includes Rp175 billion from the festival and about Rp450 billion from the concert, with ticket sales alone contributing Rp328 billion; local businesses and sectors such as hospitality and retail also benefited.

Kim Jong Un Waves to Residents at New North Korea–China Bridge

Kim Jong Un visited Dandong in China and crossed the newly opened Yalu River bridge, where he greeted residents holding North Korean and Chinese flags. The four-lane crossing is expected to strengthen economic ties between China, North Korea’s largest trading partner, and the isolated, nuclear-armed state.

Beware: Insomnia May Affect Brain and Mental Health

A review of around 20 studies involving millions of people found that insomnia was associated with a 26 per cent higher risk of stroke, as well as increased likelihood of depression, suicide attempts and hospital admission. Researchers say insomnia should be treated as a warning sign for brain and mental health problems, while sleep specialists note that poor sleep and mental health conditions can reinforce one another.

East Jakarta City Administration provides assistance to fire survivors in Rawamangun

The East Jakarta City Administration and the local Red Cross have provided food and essential supplies to residents displaced by a fire that destroyed two homes in Rawamangun. Seven families, comprising 20 people, are staying in a temporary shelter, with ready-to-eat meals being supplied three times a day for three days.

Antam Gold Prices Steady at Rp2.54 Million per Gram on 26 October 2026: Full Price List

Antam bullion gold was priced at Rp2.54 million per gram on Monday, unchanged from Friday, while its buyback price stood at Rp2.335 million per gram. The article lists prices across bullion sizes and notes that buybacks worth more than Rp10 million are subject to 1.5% income tax withholding.

Telkom Wins 2026 SDG Pioneer Award

Telkom Indonesia has won the SDG Pioneer Award at the Reuters Events Global Sustainability Awards 2026 in London for its green- and blue-carbon initiative supporting emissions reduction and the transition to net zero. The company was also named a finalist for its collaborative clean-water and sanitation programme, reflecting its efforts to integrate environmental and social goals into its business strategy.

Investment Realisation in Indonesia’s 38 Provinces in Q3 2026: West Java Leads

Indonesia recorded investment realisation of Rp528.66 trillion in the third quarter of 2026, up 7.6% year on year and supporting 745,634 Indonesian workers. West Java led the 38 provinces with Rp90.97 trillion, while Papua Pegunungan was the only province to record no domestic or foreign investment during the quarter.

Madiun Man Accused of Killing Common-Law Wife and Child, Burning and Grinding Their Remains

Police in East Java have arrested Dwi Bagus Martono in connection with the disappearance and alleged murders of his common-law wife and her four-year-old child. Investigators say forensic analysis of bone fragments found near a property linked to the suspect confirmed they were human remains; police allege the bodies were burned and put through a meat grinder as he attempted to conceal the crime.

BTN Plans Another Pension Loan Acquisition, Targets Completion in First Quarter of 2027

Bank Tabungan Negara (BTN) has signed a non-disclosure agreement with an unnamed bank to examine a potential acquisition of its consumer loan portfolio, focused on pension lending. The proposed deal would follow BTN’s Rp19.93 trillion purchase of a similar portfolio from Bank SMBC Indonesia, with the lender seeking higher-yielding assets; the article gives inconsistent timing, citing both the first quarter of 2027 in the headline and the first quarter of 2026 in the body.

Online Bakery Files Counter-Defamation Complaint Against Mother Who Spoke Out Over ‘Fake Gluten-Free’ Products

Police are investigating two linked cases: a consumer-fraud complaint over an online bakery’s allegedly false gluten-free claims, and a defamation complaint filed against the mother who publicised her concerns. The mother says her toddler suffered a severe allergic reaction after consuming the product; police say the fraud case has reached the investigation stage and laboratory tests have been conducted.

OJK to Revamp HSC After MSCI Scrutiny, with Share Ownership Transparency a Priority

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has urged the Indonesia Stock Exchange to improve its High Shareholding Concentration (HSC) mechanism following scrutiny from global index provider MSCI. Proposed changes include greater ownership transparency, improved assessment methodology and independent participation in governance, aimed at strengthening market credibility and accountability.

Indonesian government extends MSME halal certification deadline to 2028

Indonesia has extended the deadline for mandatory halal certification for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) to 2028, after many businesses failed to meet the previous target because of documentation and capacity constraints. The government will review implementation options to reconcile the legal requirement with MSMEs’ ability to comply and avoid imposing an excessive burden on them.

Mahakam Investment Forum 2026 Returns to Nusantara, Featuring Pioneering Investors’ Experiences

The 2026 Mahakam Investment Forum brought government bodies, businesses and international representatives together in Nusantara to explore investment opportunities and support East Kalimantan’s economic transformation. Investors highlighted the one-stop licensing service and incentives offered by the Nusantara Capital Authority, while Belarus and Bangladesh expressed interest in cooperation in areas including fertiliser supply and urban development.

Seruni and Dekranas Visit Tenganan Pegringsingan Village

Seruni and Dekranas leaders visited Bali’s Tenganan Pegringsingan customary village, presenting 500 pairs of glasses to older residents, particularly Gringsing weavers, after eye examinations. They praised the village’s cultural heritage and called for younger generations to continue its traditional weaving, with Dekranas offering support for training.

35 Pantura Districts Account for 24% of Indonesia’s Economy: Who Are the Key Contributors?

The combined 2025 gross regional domestic product of 35 districts and cities along Java’s north coast reached Rp5,568.12 trillion, equivalent to 23.37% of Indonesia’s GDP. The corridor’s industrial estates, ports and productive agricultural areas underpin its national importance, while tidal flooding, land subsidence and climate change pose risks to economic activity and infrastructure.

Man dies after landslide hits two-storey house in Penang

A 73-year-old man died and two other people were rescued after a landslide struck a house in Penang, prompting authorities to halt nearby hillside construction and evacuate six homes. Preliminary findings point to a leaking water pipe and clogged drains, while investigations continue into the incident and unfinished slope-stabilisation work.

BKSDA to Inspect Site Where Two Goats Were Found Mauled to Death in Gunungkidul

The Jogja Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA) says it has not yet established what caused two goats to die with severe injuries in Saptosari, Gunungkidul. It will inspect the site and consult relevant agencies, urging the public not to attribute the deaths to wildlife or another cause before an official examination is completed.

IDX Says FTSE Keeps Indonesia in ‘Secondary Emerging Market’ Category

FTSE Russell has kept Indonesia’s equity market in its Secondary Emerging Market classification and has not placed it on a watchlist, according to the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX). The decision was described as strong recognition of reforms focused on transparency, liquidity and market surveillance, while regulators say they are working to translate those changes into measurable improvements and greater investor confidence.

Husband Allegedly Kills Common-Law Wife and Child in Hotel Room in Madiun

East Java police say a man suspected of killing his common-law wife, Dini Hardiyanti, and her child has been arrested in Madiun. The mother and child had been reported missing since 20 September 2026, and investigators are continuing to examine the case.

Pertamina Dismisses Petrol Station Operator after Alleged Pertalite Fraud in Bintaro

Pertamina Patra Niaga has dismissed an operator at a petrol station in Bintaro after the station was found to have dispensed less Pertalite than customers had paid for. The action followed a viral social media video and a complaint that a Rp100,000 purchase was stopped at Rp80,000; the operator returned the Rp20,000 difference.

Woman Knocked to the Ground as Motorbike Snatcher Steals Her Bag in Depok

Police are investigating a snatch theft in Kukusan, Beji, Depok, in which a woman was knocked down after trying to hold on to her bag. Her wallet and mobile phone were stolen, and she suffered abrasions to her elbow; police are tracing the suspect and the motorbike, which reportedly had been pawned to someone else.

Khofifah asks education department to ensure academic tests run without technical problems

East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa has asked the provincial Education Department to ensure electricity and internet services remain reliable during the Academic Competency Test (TKA) for senior secondary and equivalent students. The first day involved 438,126 students across the province; test results will be combined with students’ three-year report-card grades and may be used for admission to state universities through the SNBP pathway, but are not a graduation requirement.

Son of Day Labourer and Contract Teacher Wins Two Top Honours in Indonesian Army NCO Training

I Made Isma Arya Permana Putra, 17, from Buleleng has won the highest marks in both basic training and knowledge and skills at the Indonesian Army’s Infantry Non-Commissioned Officer course. Despite financial hardship and an earlier unsuccessful attempt to enter the Military Academy, he completed the course with distinction, supported by his parents, a day labourer and a contract early-childhood teacher.

Israeli Military Chief Warns Netanyahu Against Attacking Iran

Israel’s army chief, Eyal Zamir, reportedly wants detailed discussions and written legal authorisation before carrying out a politically directed operation that could trigger a confrontation with Iran. The report raises concerns that tensions may be exploited ahead of Israel’s 27 October parliamentary election; Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has denied any dispute and rejected claims of electoral motives.

A Look Inside Brickmaking, Still Going Strong in Indonesia’s Economy

Red-brick production remains a source of productive employment for residents of Serang, Banten, despite the growing popularity of lightweight bricks. At a traditional brickmaking centre in Setu, workers use locally sourced clay and a labour-intensive process to produce bricks sold for Rp260 each, with output dependent on the availability of raw materials.

Moment Two Women Push Each Other on KRL at Tebet Station Before Security Staff Intervene

Two female passengers were involved in an argument and pushed each other while getting off a KRL commuter train at Tebet Station in South Jakarta. KAI Commuter said the incident occurred during the morning rush hour and urged passengers to remain orderly, respect one another and prioritise safety when boarding and alighting.

Education Ministry prepares special TKA arrangements for areas affected by forest and land fires

Indonesia’s Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education will provide separate scheduling for senior secondary students in areas where forest and land fires make it unsafe to sit the Academic Competency Test (TKA). The ministry has standard procedures to defer tests to a later sitting and says further adjustments can be made as local conditions change, with student safety and health the priority.

Man Suspected of Killing His Unregistered Wife and Child in Madiun Also Burned Their Bodies

Police say Dwi Bagus allegedly killed his unregistered wife, Dini Hardiyanti, and her four-year-old child in a Madiun hotel before burning their bodies in an apparent attempt to destroy evidence. Investigators have secured some evidence and are searching for bone fragments, while continuing to examine whether anyone else was involved.

Rupiah weakens amid fears of escalating Middle East tensions

The rupiah opened 0.05% lower at Rp18,089 per US dollar as renewed fears of escalating conflict in the Middle East pushed oil prices above US$100 a barrel. Analysts also cited continued foreign fund outflows from Indonesia’s equity market as a drag on the currency, forecasting a range of Rp18,050–Rp18,150 per dollar.

Boy Thohir Expands Investments from Energy to Digital Infrastructure

Garibaldi “Boy” Thohir’s affiliated investment company bought shares in ESSA, ADRO and AADI in October, while his earlier purchase of MGLV shares reflects an interest in digital infrastructure and data centres. The article outlines the companies’ differing business risks and recent earnings, while cautioning that major investors’ transactions are not a substitute for fundamental analysis and secondary-market share purchases do not necessarily provide new capital to issuers.

Indonesia Would Need 400,000 KL of Bioethanol to Introduce E20 Petrol

Indonesia is targeting an E10 petrol blend for 2027 and is considering a 20% bioethanol blend, E20, in 2028. Energy ministry official Eniya Listiani Dewi said E20 would require at least 400,000 kilolitres of ethanol, rising towards 500,000 KL, while current supplies stand at just 70,500 KL; the government is planning 11 new plants and supporting the revival of existing facilities.

Government prepares scheme for MSME involvement in free meal programme

The Ministry of MSMEs is developing a strategy to expand small businesses’ participation in President Prabowo Subianto’s free nutritious meal programme, which already sources ingredients from more than 68,000 MSMEs. The effort aligns with the government’s focus on the grassroots economy and could broaden opportunities for the sector, which accounts for nearly all Indonesian businesses and employs an estimated 123 million workers.

HSC Shares to Be Removed from the Composite Index: Will the IDX Composite Be Diluted? IDX Explains

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) says removing High Shareholding Concentration (HSC) stocks from the IDX Composite from 2 November 2026 will not cause a sharp fall or spike, as their index weights will be redistributed among the remaining constituents. The move is part of broader capital-market reforms, including stronger ownership transparency, market surveillance and enforcement, with regulators aiming to improve the index’s credibility and investor confidence.

Village Ministry to Select 71 Villages for Quantum Village Pilot

The Ministry of Villages and Development of Disadvantaged Regions plans to select 71 villages as pilots for its Quantum Village model, drawn from 211 villages identified as having made significant progress in their development status. The initiative aims to accelerate village development and self-reliance by sharing proven practices, identifying effective interventions and supporting village facilitators; lessons are expected to inform a series of publications and guidance materials.

Gold Prices Steady Today, with Potential to Fall Over the Coming Week

Antam gold prices were unchanged at Rp2.54 million per gram on Monday, while the buyback price stood at Rp2.335 million per gram. The article also outlines the applicable taxes and lists prices across Antam’s gold bar sizes; despite the headline’s forecast, it provides no further detail on the prospect of a weekly decline.

Whoosh High-Speed Train Tickets Slashed, Jakarta–Bandung Fares Cut to This Price

KCIC is offering discounts of up to 75% and cashback of up to Rp150,000 on Whoosh high-speed train tickets from 26 October to 4 November 2026. The promotion is intended to make trips to Bandung more affordable and encourage leisure travel, which accounted for an average of 19.4% of Whoosh passengers from January to September 2026.

Dasco Says Indonesia Will Set Its Own Rating as OJK Responds

OJK has welcomed support for Indonesia’s capital market but said it would discuss further a proposal by Deputy House Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad for the country to determine its own market rating. The remarks come as MSCI consults on downgrading Indonesia from Emerging Market to Standalone Market, citing concerns about investability, ownership transparency and suspected coordinated trading; a final decision is due by 30 June 2027.

Halal Certification for MSMEs Delayed Until 2028 on President’s Instructions as Government Seeks Solution

President Prabowo Subianto has directed a two-year delay to the halal certification deadline for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), after the government failed to meet its 2026 certification target and businesses reported difficulty preparing the required documents. The MSME minister says the government is reviewing a compromise that upholds the statutory halal requirement while avoiding an excessive burden on small businesses.

Serbians Celebrate Vucic’s Defeat After His Rule Since 2014

Aleksandar Vucic has conceded defeat in Serbia’s snap election, with the student-backed Student List set to win a parliamentary majority. His loss follows nearly two years of student-led protests over corruption and authoritarianism, and has prompted celebrations in Belgrade while leaving questions over who will lead the new government.

Bolsonaro Refuses to Accept Brazil Election Count and Seeks Annulment

Right-wing presidential candidate Flavio Bolsonaro said he would challenge Brazil’s election result in court and seek to have the vote annulled, citing the extension of polling hours. With 99.98 per cent of ballots counted, Lula da Silva was declared the winner with 51.78 per cent, against Bolsonaro’s 48.22 per cent.

Indonesian police hunt suspect in assault on Dutch tourist

Manokwari police have deployed a special team and rapid-response unit to pursue a suspect in an assault on a Dutch tourist in Amban, after receiving a report through the 110 emergency hotline. Officers secured the scene, arranged medical care for the victim and are interviewing witnesses, while urging residents to remain calm and share any information with police.

NASA Reveals Data on Forest and Land Fires in Papua

NASA data show that El Niño-driven drought fuelled severe forest and land fires across Papua in September and October 2026, causing weeks of smoke, pollution and disruption. More than 35 megatonnes of carbon emissions were recorded in Indonesian Papua, while researchers warn that land clearance and hunting also contribute to the fires and that the region is becoming a new frontier for deforestation.

PGN Batam Says 10 Free Nutritious Meal Kitchens Use Natural Gas

Ten kitchens serving Indonesia’s Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme in Batam are using natural gas supplied by state-owned gas company PGN, down from 12 reported in January 2026. PGN says kitchens can receive gas through pipelines or compressed natural gas cylinders, allowing the service to reach sites beyond the pipeline network.

Student Coalition Wins Serbian Election as Aleksandar Vučić Concedes Defeat

Early projections indicate that the student-backed opposition coalition has won the most seats in Serbia’s parliamentary election, prompting President Aleksandar Vučić to concede defeat. The result would mark a major setback for his Serbian Progressive Party, which has dominated politics since 2012, amid high turnout and reports of irregularities following two years of anti-government protests.

JCI Suddenly Slumps by More Than 1%: Here’s Why

Indonesia’s Composite Stock Price Index (JCI) fell 1.30% in early trading, led by losses in healthcare, technology and infrastructure stocks, with several major banks and telecoms among the biggest drags. The decline comes as investors prepare for a busy week of global events, including central-bank rate decisions and key US, eurozone and Chinese economic data that could influence markets and Indonesia’s rupiah and bond flows.

Five Indonesian Employees Visit Clean Energy Projects in China

Five employees of PT Datang DSSP Power Indonesia joined a 12-day study tour of clean energy facilities in China, examining integrated power generation and smart operations and maintenance. The programme showcased a hydro, wind, solar and storage system that produces more than 10 billion kilowatt-hours of clean electricity annually, alongside company social programmes in Yunnan and Guangxi.

BMKG Says Sumatra and Kalimantan Could See Rain Today

BMKG forecasts varied weather across Indonesia, with rain expected in parts of Sumatra and Kalimantan and thunderstorms possible in several cities. The agency also warns of moderate rain, haze and cloudy conditions across other regions, including Java, Bali and eastern Indonesia.

Indonesia’s Poorest Minister Served in a ‘Lucrative’ Portfolio

Sutami, Indonesia’s public works minister from 1964 to 1978, was renowned for refusing state privileges and living modestly despite overseeing major infrastructure projects. His legacy includes the Jagorawi toll road and the Semanggi and Ampera bridges, while accounts of his poverty-stricken final years underscore his personal austerity.

Pope Leo Calls for Peace in Yemen and Prays for Victims of Jordan Attack

Pope Leo XIV has called for an end to hostilities in Yemen, citing worsening humanitarian conditions in Taiz, and expressed solidarity with victims of a deadly shooting at an Orthodox church in Jordan. The incidents underline the toll of conflict and violence across the region, with the Pope urging leaders to choose dialogue and peace.

Operation Patuh Agung Begins as Bali Police Chief Highlights High Road Accident Toll

Bali recorded 7,393 traffic accidents from January to September 2026, a 26 per cent increase on the same period in 2025, with 415 people killed. The 14-day Operation Patuh Agung aims to improve road safety through enforcement, prevention and humane public education.

Man in Madiun Kills Unregistered Wife and Child in Turn in Hotel Room

Police in East Java say Dwi Bagus is suspected of killing Dini Hardiyanti and her four-year-old child in a hotel room in Madiun, first killing Dini and then the child. The suspect has been detained and is being questioned after the pair were reported missing in September; the investigation reportedly led police to suspect Dini’s unregistered husband.

Home Affairs Minister Orders Regional Leaders to Make Full Use of Funding to Fight Forest and Land Fires

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian has urged regional leaders to rapidly and accountably deploy central government assistance to tackle forest and land fires, protect residents from smoke and support field teams. A second presidential grant of Rp480 billion brings total assistance to Rp1.24 trillion, with an Interior Ministry circular setting out eligible uses and accountability procedures.

Pertamina Dismisses Bintaro Petrol Station Attendant for Fuel-Filling Violation

Pertamina Patra Niaga has dismissed an attendant at a Bintaro petrol station after a viral video showed a customer being charged Rp100,000 but receiving only Rp80,000 worth of Pertalite, without being told the filling had stopped. The station management apologised to the customer and refunded the Rp20,000 difference, while Pertamina said it would continue monitoring service standards across its network.

Mechanic in Narrow Tangerang Alley Billed Rp137m in McLaren Tax Arrears

A motorcycle mechanic in Tangerang was shocked to learn that a McLaren registered under his address had accumulated Rp137.44 million in unpaid tax. After checking that he did not own the car, Ciledug’s tax office blocked its vehicle records to prevent his details from being misused.

Only 32% of Indonesian Businesses Plan Capital Spending as High Rates, Weak Rupiah and Wildfires Cloud Outlook

Only 32.4% of businesses surveyed by the Kadin Indonesia Institute plan capital investment in the next six months, down for a third consecutive quarter amid high borrowing costs, rupiah depreciation and climate-related disruption. The survey also highlights a sharp divide between large firms and smaller businesses, reflecting unequal access to credit, while companies call for better climate-risk preparedness and debate proposed minimum-wage increases.

Lula Wins Brazil’s Presidential Run-off, Defeating Bolsonaro

Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has won Brazil’s presidential election with 51.76% of valid votes, defeating Flávio Bolsonaro by more than four million votes. The result is historic: Lula became the first candidate since the two-round system was introduced in 1989 to win the run-off after finishing second in the first round, and will begin a fourth presidential term in January 2027.

Metro Police Chief Urges Public to Report ‘Rogue Officers’ During Traffic Operation

Metro Jaya Police Chief Dadang Hartanto says internal affairs officers will monitor personnel during the 14-day Operation Patuh Jaya, and the public is encouraged to report misconduct. The operation will use electronic and manual enforcement, with officers required to document actions and only designated, certified personnel authorised to issue penalties.

Indonesia-Australia Business Forum Opens Digital Trade Opportunities

An Indonesia-Australia business-matching event and a forthcoming forum in Melbourne aim to connect companies and expand cooperation in cybersecurity, digital trust and cross-border trade. The initiatives build on bilateral trade that has nearly tripled to AUD 33 billion in five years, alongside an 8.4% rise in investment, with IA-CEPA credited for supporting the growth.

Indonesia Expo 2026 to Expand Trade and Education Opportunities in Myanmar

Indonesia Expo 2026 will bring together 39 Indonesian businesses and institutions and 19 Myanmar companies in Yangon to explore trade, investment and education partnerships. The event comes as bilateral trade reached about US$1.033 billion in 2025, and will feature business agreements, university consultations and promotion of Indonesian products and tourism.

US military: More than 95% of ships pass safely through the Strait of Hormuz

US Central Command says more than 95% of vessels transited the Strait of Hormuz safely in recent months, while US forces have helped over 3,000 commercial ships pass through in the past six months. CENTCOM also says its forces helped Gulf partners export more than 1.5 billion barrels of crude oil, amid continuing tensions over control of the strategic waterway.

Breaking: IDX Composite Suddenly Falls More Than 1%

The IDX Composite fell 1.30% in morning trading after opening slightly higher, as investors faced a packed week of global economic and central-bank events. Key releases and decisions in China, the United States, Europe and Japan—including the Fed’s rate decision and US inflation data—could influence risk appetite, Indonesian capital flows, the rupiah and government bond yields.

Indonesia Strongly Condemns Terrorist Attack on Orthodox Church in Jordan

Indonesia has strongly condemned a gun attack on a Greek Orthodox church in Jordan’s Karak province that left eight people dead and 27 injured. Jakarta expressed condolences and solidarity with King Abdullah II and the Jordanian people, while its embassy in Amman is monitoring the situation and coordinating with local authorities to ensure Indonesians’ safety.

Manpower Ministry to Open MagangHub Batch 3 Applications on 27 October

The Manpower Ministry will accept applications for the third batch of its National Apprenticeship Programme from 27 October to 4 November 2026, with eligibility checks available during the application period. Employers can register as programme partners until 29 October, and approved companies and apprenticeship vacancies will be published on 30 October through the MagangHub platform.

Rupiah Under Pressure from Brent Crude at US$115 as Jakarta Composite Index Turns Red at 5,436

The rupiah opened 0.29 per cent weaker at Rp18,110 per US dollar as Brent crude rose to US$115.28 a barrel, before its losses narrowed to 0.16 per cent. It was among Asia’s three weakest currencies, with external and domestic pressures persisting despite a softer US dollar index and lower US Treasury yields.

Patuh Jaya Operation to Run for 14 Days, Traffic Stops Must Be Video-Recorded

Jakarta Metro Police have deployed 2,938 personnel for the 14-day Patuh Jaya 2026 traffic operation, running from 26 October to 8 November. The operation will focus on road safety and compliance, with officers required to record all enforcement actions on video and prioritise preventive and educational measures.

Indonesia Set to Launch E10 Bioethanol Petrol in 2027

The Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry is targeting the introduction of petrol blended with 10% bioethanol (E10) in 2027, while technical preparations for a mandatory blend are under way. Officials say current ethanol stocks of 70,500 kilolitres are insufficient for the longer-term E20 target in 2028, which would require 400,000–500,000 kilolitres; the government is planning 11 new ethanol plants and supporting the revitalisation of existing facilities.

Houthis Claim Attacks on Riyadh Airport and Saudi Military Bases

Yemen’s Houthi group says it carried out three missile operations targeting King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh and two Saudi military installations. Saudi authorities had not responded to the claims, which came as some flights resumed at the airport after a two-week closure.

Popular: Jakarta’s Strong Economy and the Energy Guardian Programme for Petrol Stations

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung cited major events, including the Jakarta Running Festival, a Kanye West concert and Pestapora, as evidence of the capital’s economic resilience amid global pressures. Separately, the government has launched the 2026 Energy Guardian programme to strengthen oversight of subsidised and assigned fuel distribution at 3,679 petrol stations nationwide.

BSI and Prudential Syariah Promote Financial Planning Through Bancassurance

Bank Syariah Indonesia and Prudential Syariah strengthened their bancassurance partnership at the BSI International Expo 2026 with events linking healthy lifestyles to financial planning. They also introduced PRULite Protection Syariah, a life insurance product aimed at working-age customers seeking medium-term protection and savings benefits.

Jakarta Police Visit Primary School to Raise Pupils’ Awareness of Bullying Prevention

Jakarta Metro Police have taken an education programme to a South Jakarta primary school, urging pupils to reject bullying and report violence or inappropriate touching to trusted adults. The initiative also covered personal safety, traffic rules and the police’s role, while officials stressed that protecting children requires cooperation between schools, families and the wider community.

Mount Sumbing Fire Extinguished; Ahmad Luthfi Calls for Faster Rehabilitation

The wildfire on Mount Sumbing, which affected Wonosobo, Magelang and Temanggung, has been fully extinguished, but authorities are continuing inspections and assessing the damage. Ahmad Luthfi has called for damaged water pipes to be restored, reforestation to be accelerated and preventive measures strengthened; the fire burned 974.29 hectares and caused estimated losses of Rp189.3 million.

Commuters Caught on Camera in Dispute Aboard Women-Only KRL Carriage

A dispute broke out between passengers on a Bogor–Jakarta Kota commuter train as they got off at Tebet station, with the incident reportedly triggered by pushing. KAI Commuter said station staff intervened and urged passengers to respect one another and prioritise safety.

Police Arrest Husband Suspected of Murdering Mother and Child in Madiun

Police in East Java have arrested Dwi Bagus, who is suspected of murdering Dini Hardiyanti and her four-year-old child, after they were reported missing in Madiun. Investigators say the suspect was the victim’s unregistered religious husband and are continuing to develop the case.

Operation Patuh Semeru 2026 Begins: East Java Police Chief’s Message

East Java Police Chief Inspector General Dekananto Eko Purwono has ordered officers to prioritise humane engagement, education and prevention during the 14-day Operation Patuh Semeru 2026, with enforcement treated as a last resort. He cited increases in traffic accidents and offences and said the operation aims to reduce crashes and serious casualties, warning participating personnel against abusing their authority or breaking traffic rules themselves.

Tito: Funding Support Must Be Optimised for Forest and Land Fire Response

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian said funding for forest and land fire response must be rapidly converted into operational action to improve firefighting and protect communities. The government has distributed a further Rp480 billion to 44 districts and cities across seven provinces, bringing the total in two allocations to Rp1.24 trillion, with official guidance setting out eligible uses and budget procedures.

Participants’ Rights in the Separation of Insurance Sharia Units

Indonesia’s 2026 deadline for insurers to separate their Sharia units raises questions about participants’ rights when portfolios are transferred to another licensed operator. The article argues that, although regulations allow silence to count as acceptance after notice, this is only meaningful if participants are properly informed, understand the consequences and have reasonable time to object.

BPS: Price Index Rises in 309 Regencies and Cities, with West Sumatra Leading

Statistics Indonesia (BPS) reported that the Price Development Index (IPH) rose in 309 regencies and cities in the fourth week of October 2026, largely driven by higher red chilli and bird’s eye chilli prices. West Sumatra stood out, while rice-related increases spread to more areas; BPS said the price levels of rice and cooking oil still warrant attention despite relatively small index changes.

Bulog ready to distribute rice aid to 33.2 million beneficiaries

Bulog has prepared rice stocks and packaging for the third phase of the government’s rice assistance programme, which is scheduled to run from October to December 2026. Distribution is awaiting beneficiary data from the Social Affairs Ministry; each of about 33.2 million recipients is due to receive 10 kilograms of rice monthly.

JCI Flat as Investors Wait for the Fed’s Interest Rate Decision

Indonesia’s Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) edged lower in early trading as investors adopted a wait-and-see stance ahead of the Federal Reserve’s expected decision to hold rates and its guidance on the December meeting. The article also highlights domestic investment and SOE targets, alongside Fitch’s forecast that Indonesia’s growth will slow to 5.2% in 2026, below the government’s target.

Two Teenagers Swept Away by Waves at Jembrana Beach; One Dies

Two 15-year-old girls were swept out to sea at Dangin Berawah Beach in Jembrana, Bali, on Sunday evening; one died and the other survived. Police said the pair were found washed ashore around 7.30pm, and investigators found no signs of violence.

Operation Patuh 2026 Begins Nationwide Today and Runs Until 8 November

Indonesia’s two-week Operation Patuh 2026 runs from 26 October to 8 November, with police urging motorists to obey traffic rules, including those monitored by electronic enforcement cameras. In Jakarta, 2,938 personnel from the police, military and local agencies are involved, with the operation focusing on prevention and education as well as enforcement of common violations.

Viral Video Shows Runner Breaching Cut-Off Point Barrier at Jakarta Running Festival; Bank Manager Apologises

A participant at the 2026 Jakarta Running Festival was filmed forcing his way past a cut-off point barrier and verbally abusing event staff, prompting criticism online over his reported role as a bank compliance manager. The runner, identified as Muldan, has apologised and said his conduct was unacceptable, while stressing that he participated in a personal capacity and did not represent his employer.

Asian Currencies Diverge: Won and Ringgit Surge, While Rupiah Remains Weak

Most Asian currencies rose as the US dollar weakened, led by the South Korean won, while the rupiah fell 0.30% to Rp18,095 per US dollar and the Philippine peso posted the region’s steepest decline. Lower US Treasury yields and easing oil prices weighed on the dollar, with markets now focused on major central-bank guidance and key US economic data.

Khofifah Sends Water-Bombing Helicopter to Tackle Supit Urang Landfill Fire

East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa has deployed helicopter water-bombing support to help extinguish a fire covering about 15.5 hectares at Supit Urang landfill in Malang. Officials say embers remain beneath unstable waste piles, making the operation hazardous and requiring coordinated ground and aerial efforts; the incident comes amid a wider rise in forest and land fires across the province.

Take Note: Jakarta Traffic Operation Targets These Violations, Monitored by e-TLE and Manual Checks

Jakarta’s 14-day Patuh Jaya 2026 operation, running from 26 October to 8 November, will target 12 traffic violations, including riding without a helmet, wrong-way driving and speeding. Police say education and warnings will be prioritised, with enforcement through e-TLE cameras and selectively authorised officers reserved for serious or dangerous offences.

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Visits Sekolah Rakyat, Singing with Pupils and Inspecting Dormitories

Cabinet Secretary and Sekolah Rakyat Ambassador Lt Col Teddy Indra Wijaya made an unannounced evening visit to an integrated school in Bekasi, meeting pupils and checking dormitory and campus facilities. He encouraged them to study hard, gave them bags and T-shirts from President Prabowo Subianto, and praised their enthusiasm and English studies.

MP Says Need for Anti-Bullying Law Is Becoming Increasingly Urgent

DPR Commission III member Abdullah says repeated bullying cases in South Tangerang and Sampit underscore the need for a dedicated law covering prevention and responses. He plans to consult government, schools, media and other stakeholders to map the issues and develop a roadmap for drafting the legislation.

Indonesian Government Seeks More MSME Suppliers for Free Meals Programme

The government is encouraging more micro, small and medium-sized enterprises to supply the free meals programme, which currently has around 68,000 MSME suppliers. The National Nutrition Agency is reorganising its governance, procedures and procurement systems, while the MSME Ministry works on collaboration models intended to make local businesses key beneficiaries of programme spending.

Petrol Station Attendant Involved in Bali Pertalite Hoarding Syndicate

Police in Denpasar have arrested four people, including a petrol station operator, over the alleged misuse of subsidised Pertalite using consumers’ barcodes. Investigators seized 795 litres of fuel and say the group resold it to small shops and Pertamini outlets, earning up to Rp75 million a month; those arrested face up to six years in prison and a Rp60 billion fine.

New Scam: Victims Told to Buy Gold and Hide It in a Forest

A new investment scam in Norway has seen victims persuaded to buy gold and leave it in forest locations, where fraudsters then steal it. Finans Norge says similar cases have been reported in Oslo, nearby cities and Bergen, amid combined bank and customer fraud losses of 962 million kroner last year.

Palembang Sees Rain for Three Consecutive Days as Residents Hope Haze Will Clear

Rain has fallen in Palembang for three consecutive days after a prolonged dry spell and months of haze from forest and land fires, raising hopes that air quality will improve and daily activity can return to normal. Meteorologists said atmospheric conditions favoured rain, while a hybrid weather-modification operation also contributed to cloud formation and precipitation.

Pertalite Consumption Surges as Bahlil Signals Possible Increase in Quota

Indonesia is recalculating its subsidised Pertalite allocation after demand rose as some motorists switched from non-subsidised Pertamax fuel. Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia says a technical assessment is due by the end of the month, while Pertamina is increasing supplies and taking other steps to strengthen distribution and service.

Lawmaker Urges Indonesian Police Chief to Intensify Drug Crackdown

Lawmaker Habiburokhman praised Police Chief Suyudi’s personal leadership of recent operations and urged police to sustain their campaign against drug networks and major kingpins. He described the operations—including the discovery of a drug factory in Aceh and raids on trafficking hotspots—as a humanitarian effort to protect Indonesians, especially young people.

Message to First-Wave Senior High School TKA Candidates: Education Minister Says to Remember the 3Ms

Education Minister Abdul Mu’ti urged senior high school students taking the first wave of the Academic Ability Test (TKA) to master the material, manage their time and maintain confidence. He said the test is not a determinant of graduation, and encouraged parents to support their children without imposing unrealistic expectations.

DJP Offers Waiver of Tax Administrative Penalties: Here Are the Requirements

Indonesia’s Directorate General of Taxes has introduced a programme to reduce or waive certain administrative tax penalties under Director General of Taxes Decision KEP-239/PJ/2026, linked to Finance Ministry Regulation No. 71/2026. Eligible taxpayers must meet general and additional conditions, including paying the underlying tax, withdrawing or forgoing other legal challenges, and applying within specified dates; the relief excludes certain penalties arising from objection and appeal proceedings.

OJK Prepares Three Measures in Response to MSCI

Indonesia’s Financial Services Authority (OJK) has outlined three measures after index provider MSCI raised the possibility of downgrading the Indonesia Stock Exchange from emerging-market to standalone status. The measures include extending share buybacks without shareholder approval, improving oversight of concentrated shareholdings and strengthening market-surveillance methods; OJK also cited substantial enforcement activity in 2026.

Riau Police Launches Traffic Compliance Operation, Targeting 10 Violations

Riau Police has launched the 2026 Lancang Kuning Traffic Compliance Operation, running until 8 November, with 971 personnel deployed across the province. The campaign prioritises education and persuasive enforcement while targeting 10 common road-safety violations, following six crashes and five deaths recorded during the 2025 operation.

Forest Fire in North Toraja Spreads to Cliffside Stone Tombs in Baruppu

A forest and land fire in North Toraja spread to stone tombs on a cliff in Baruppu, with difficult road access hampering firefighting efforts. Local fire personnel joined Manggala Agni and other teams in a coordinated operation to extinguish the blaze.

Rescuers evacuate injured 14-year-old hiker on Lombok

A joint search-and-rescue team evacuated 14-year-old Hikmah after she injured her leg while hiking near the Pergasingan summit in East Lombok. Rescuers provided first aid and carried her to Sembalun Community Health Centre, where she was handed over for further treatment.

IRSX Expands AI Business Through Partnership with MiniMax

Folago (IRSX) has been appointed MiniMax’s sole strategic distributor in Indonesia, enabling it to resell the Chinese AI company’s tokens and use its technology for short-drama production. The partnership supports Folago’s ambition to become an AI token distribution hub, creating a new potential revenue stream while broadening its AI content-production capabilities.

Rupiah Could Fall to Rp18,200 per US Dollar This Week: Key Factors

The rupiah is under pressure and could weaken to Rp18,200 per US dollar, according to economist Ibrahim Assuaibi. A stronger US dollar and rising oil prices—fuelled in part by geopolitical tensions—could stoke inflation and expectations of US interest-rate increases, putting further pressure on emerging-market currencies.

Pramono Joins JRF 2026 as Jakarta’s Global Reputation Continues to Grow

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung said the participation of about 37,000 runners from 48 countries in the Jakarta Running Festival 2026 reflected growing international confidence in the city as a host for major sporting events. The Jakarta administration provided transport, medical and route-support services, while the festival’s Half Marathon holds World Athletics Gold Label status and follows international competition standards.

BTN Disburses Rp552 Trillion in Home Loans in Third Quarter, Capturing 39% of Market

Bank BTN reported Rp552 trillion in home-loan disbursements through September 2026 and a 39% share of the housing-finance market as of June. It is expanding subsidised lending and financing across the housing supply chain while pursuing digital upgrades, lower-emission housing and stronger risk management.

Police Raid Drug Den in Batam’s Kampung Madani, 18 Arrested

A joint team from the Riau Islands Police and the provincial National Narcotics Agency arrested 18 people during a raid on an alleged drug hub in Batam. Urine tests found 17 of them positive for substances indicating narcotics or psychoactive drugs, while officers also seized suspected methamphetamine and other items.

Weaving Memories in Andalusia: An Undimmed Longing in Southern Spain

Henrietta Szovati and her husband, Ajmal Masroor, are turning an old farmhouse and its land near Álora into the House of Andalus, a project intended to reconnect people with the region’s Islamic history and natural environment. Their 14-hectare site already has nearly 400 olive trees, with plans to expand the grove to 1,000, amid a landscape shaped by last summer’s wildfires and rich in Mediterranean crops.

Four Government Measures to Improve the Free Nutritious Meals Programme, from SPPGs to Beneficiary Data

The government has outlined four priorities for improving its Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme: expanding access in remote regions, strengthening service-unit governance, improving food safety and nutritional quality, and validating beneficiary data while tackling misconduct. Measures include activating new SPPGs, introducing performance-based incentives, piloting buffet-style service and CCTV monitoring with AI, and requiring beneficiary records to be verified by name, address and national identity number.

Riyadh Airport Partially Reopens as US Warns of Security Threat

Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport has partially resumed operations after Houthi attacks, but the US Embassy has warned of further threats and possible flight disruption. Washington has ordered non-essential government staff and their families to leave Saudi Arabia, while Houthi forces continue to threaten the airport and the kingdom reports intercepting more missiles and drones.

JCI Opens Slightly Higher at 5,442 as Investors Brace for a Week of Central Bank Decisions

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) opened 0.06% higher at 5,442.30 on Monday, with early trading activity remaining limited. Investors are monitoring decisions from seven central banks, including the US Federal Reserve, alongside economic growth and US inflation data, with implications for currencies, capital flows and risk assets.

Teenage Girl Injured in Fall While Hiking in East Lombok Evacuated by SAR Team

A 14-year-old girl was injured after slipping while hiking on Mount Pergasingan in East Lombok and was evacuated by a joint search-and-rescue team. She received initial treatment at the scene before being taken to Sembalun Community Health Centre for further medical care and later handed over to her family.

Jordan Hunts Church Shooting Suspects After Attack Kills Nine

King Abdullah II has ordered a nationwide manhunt after gunmen opened fire at a Greek Orthodox church in Karak province, killing nine people and injuring 40. The attack, which struck mourners at a funeral, has prompted heightened security, a three-day national mourning period and condemnation from religious and political leaders, while authorities have yet to identify the attackers or establish any group affiliation.

Riyadh Airport Partially Reopens After Houthi Attack

King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh has resumed some services after a two-week closure following Houthi attacks, with two terminals handling domestic and international flights. The Houthis have again warned passengers and airlines against using the airport, which they describe as a military target; full operational capacity has not been announced.

Gerindra Says Prabowo Cannot Dismiss Vice-President, Citing Constitutional Powers

Gerindra lawmaker Azis Subekti says President Prabowo Subianto has no unilateral authority to remove Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, arguing that dismissal must follow the constitutional impeachment process. His comments come amid calls for Gibran’s removal following a Constitutional Court ruling on his educational qualifications; Azis says the ruling did not annul Gibran’s office or order his dismissal.

Kemendikdasmen’s 2026 Youth Pledge Day Ceremony Schedule and Guidance

Indonesia’s Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has issued guidance for the 98th Youth Pledge Day ceremony on 28 October 2026, setting the event for 08.00 local time and requiring participants to wear full Korpri uniforms. The circular also lays out the ceremony’s sequence, including the flag-raising, readings of Pancasila and the 1928 Youth Congress resolution, speeches and prayers.

Metro Jaya Police’s 2026 Operation Patuh Jaya aims to reduce traffic violations and accidents

Metro Jaya Police says its 2026 Operation Patuh Jaya will combine prevention, enforcement and analysis of the causes of road-safety problems to reduce traffic violations and crashes. The campaign will target common dangerous offences, while requiring officers to document enforcement and follow up with education for repeat or high-risk offenders.

JCI Gradually Recovers, OJK Says Not All Pressure Has Passed

Indonesia’s Financial Services Authority (OJK) welcomed the recovery in the Jakarta Composite Index (JCI), crediting share buybacks by listed companies and investors who maintained confidence in the market. OJK cautioned that the improvement does not mean all pressure is over, while saying it suggests the market is becoming more rational and controlled as investors absorb short-term sentiment.

DJP Introduces Tax Administrative Penalty Relief, Not a Tax Amnesty

Indonesia’s Directorate General of Taxes has introduced a scheme to reduce or waive certain administrative tax penalties under a decision issued on 8 October 2026. The relief does not cancel tax principal or create a new tax amnesty, and taxpayers must meet specified filing, payment and assessment deadlines, with a limited provision for assets not fully disclosed under the Voluntary Disclosure Programme.

Patuh Jaya Operation Begins Today, Metro Jakarta Police Deploy 2,938 Personnel

Metro Jakarta Police have launched a 14-day traffic operation involving 2,938 personnel from the police, military, Jakarta’s transport agency and municipal public order officers. The campaign will focus on education and prevention alongside enforcement, targeting common and dangerous traffic violations while requiring video documentation of enforcement actions.

Police Investigate Suspected Murder of Mother and Child in Madiun

Police in Madiun have arrested a man suspected of murdering his unregistered wife and her four-year-old child, who had been reported missing in September. Investigators are examining hotel CCTV and other evidence, while the victims’ bodies and the motive remain unconfirmed.

Former Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie to Attend Pretrial Ruling Hearing Today in Extortion and Money-Laundering Case

Febrie Adriansyah and two co-defendants are due to hear an interim ruling in their alleged extortion and money-laundering case at the Central Jakarta Corruption Court. Prosecutors accuse Febrie of seeking S$5 million from a witness in the Jiwasraya case in exchange for not naming him as a suspect.

The Calculations Behind Calls to Impeach Gibran: Jimly Asshiddiqie Says President Prabowo Is the Key Factor

Constitutional law expert Jimly Asshiddiqie says that although impeachment proceedings against Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka may be possible under the rules, carrying them out would be politically difficult. He argues President Prabowo Subianto’s position and the governing coalition’s parliamentary configuration are central, given Prabowo’s role in choosing Gibran as his running mate in 2024.

Indonesian festival showcases national culture and MSMEs to Melburnians

Indonesia’s 13th annual festival in Melbourne attracted more than 6,000 visitors, presenting traditional performances, food and crafts, with six MSME booths featuring products from across the archipelago. The event also promoted consular support services and comes as Indonesia seeks to broaden Australian tourism beyond Bali, including through expanded direct regional flights.

The Habit of Smiling Does More Than Lift Your Mood

Physically changing a frown into a smile may influence emotions as well as improve mood, according to experts cited in the report. Clinicians say smiling can affect stress-related hormones and brain chemicals associated with positive feelings, while research suggests that smiles experienced as genuine and voluntary may have a tangible effect.

Metro Jaya Police Deploy 2,938 Joint Personnel for Patuh Jaya Operation

Metro Jaya Police have deployed 2,938 personnel from police, the military and Jakarta provincial agencies for the 14-day Patuh Jaya 2026 traffic operation, running from 26 October to 8 November. The force says officers will be subject to internal oversight and required to document their actions, while community police will conduct educational visits to repeat offenders.

Selected Photos from the Fourth Week of October 2026

This photo roundup documents events across Indonesia in the fourth week of October, including a wildfire on Mount Arjuno, the free nutritious meals programme in Manggarai, and protests over disaster response and access to public services. It also captures cultural traditions, a ferry fire, environmental concerns and military exercises, alongside sporting achievements at the 2026 Asian Para Games.

Antam Gold Prices Remain Unchanged Today; What Is the Buyback Price?

Antam’s one-gram gold bar price stayed at Rp2,540,000 on Monday, extending a period of unchanged prices since Saturday, while the global gold price edged up. The buyback price also held steady at Rp2,335,000 per gram; purchases and qualifying buyback transactions are subject to income tax withholding.

Tight Liquidity: BTN Chief Reveals Impact of the Interest Rate War

Bank Tabungan Negara (BTN) says fierce competition for deposits amid tightening banking-sector liquidity is raising funding costs and could slow profit growth in the second half of 2026. The lender may adjust its loan-growth targets if funding remains expensive, while lower non-performing loans and a cut in the reserve requirement could help ease pressure.

Mother and Child in Madiun Mysteriously Disappear; Husband Suspected of Murder

Police are investigating the disappearance of Dini Hardiyanti, 30, and her four-year-old son, last seen in September, and suspect that Dini’s husband may have killed them. The suspect is being sought in East Java and elsewhere, after CCTV footage placed the pair at a Madiun hotel; relatives had earlier said Dini and her husband argued shortly before she and her child vanished.

KAI subsidiary faces sentencing hearing in transport ministry bribery case today

PT KA Properti Manajemen, a subsidiary of state railway operator PT KAI, is due to face prosecutors’ sentencing demands in a bribery case linked to railway projects overseen by the Transport Ministry’s Directorate General of Railways. The company is accused of paying Rp1.36 billion to five ministry officials to secure a 2022 level-crossing project, from which it allegedly gained Rp2.41 billion in assets.

Tangerang Mechanic Stunned to Be Billed Rp137 Million in McLaren Tax

A mechanic in Tangerang was shocked when Samsat Ciledug sought to collect Rp137.44 million in overdue vehicle tax for a McLaren registered in his name, although he says he does not own the car. Officials have blocked the vehicle’s records to prevent possible misuse while the discrepancy is addressed.

Indonesia launches global partnership forum to protect the Coral Triangle

Indonesia plans to convene an international forum in Washington, D.C., next spring with the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries and global conservation and development organisations to mobilise cooperation for the Coral Triangle. The initiative aims to connect marine conservation with food security and coastal livelihoods, while securing blended finance, knowledge-sharing and practical projects building on existing programmes including the US$210 million LAUTRA initiative.

Febrie Adriansyah to Attend Preliminary Ruling Hearing in Money-Laundering Case Today

Former Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah and two co-defendants are scheduled to hear a preliminary ruling in a Jakarta corruption case involving alleged extortion and money laundering. Prosecutors accuse Febrie of demanding S$5 million from a witness in the Jiwasraya case and laundering Rp354.62 billion; the ruling will determine whether the trial proceeds to examination of the main charges.

Houthi Threats Escalate as US Evacuates Government Staff from Saudi Arabia

The US State Department has ordered non-emergency government employees and their families to leave Saudi Arabia amid heightened Houthi threats, effective 23 October. The warning comes as Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport partially reopens following attacks, while the US cautions of further strikes, airspace closures and flight disruption.

Antam Gold Prices Hold Steady at Rp2.54 Million per Gram on Monday

Antam’s gold price remained unchanged at Rp2.54 million per gram on Monday, matching its price on Friday, while the buyback rate stood at Rp2.335 million. The report also outlines applicable tax deductions and prices for gold bars ranging from 0.5 to 1,000 grams.

Government Rolls Out Late-2026 Incentives: Can Indonesia’s Economy Reach 5.4%?

An INDEF economist says government stimulus introduced in the fourth quarter of 2026 may cushion household spending but is unlikely to provide a significant boost to annual growth, given its late timing and uncertain effects on real consumption. The package includes food and wage assistance, transport discounts and tax incentives; the government is targeting 5.4% growth for 2026.

Japan Develops First Hydrogen Engine for Large Ships, Cutting Emissions by 95%

Japan Engine Corp. says it has developed the world’s first hydrogen-fuelled engine for large commercial vessels, capable of reducing carbon dioxide emissions by more than 95% compared with heavy fuel oil engines. The engine is due to be installed on a multipurpose ship for onboard demonstrations in April 2028, as the shipping industry pursues the International Maritime Organization’s target of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

PT Kristalin Ekalestari Gold Mine: Government Says Outstanding Obligations to the State Remain

The revocation of PT Kristalin Ekalestari’s mining permit does not cancel its outstanding financial or employment obligations, including any customs liabilities linked to imported operating machinery. The government says workers’ rights must be honoured and that investment oversight will be strengthened in coordination with technical ministries and the Forest Area Enforcement Task Force.

JCI Edges Up 0.06% at the Start of Trading

Indonesia’s Composite Stock Price Index (JCI) opened the week 0.06% higher, with early trading activity subdued. Investors face a packed global economic calendar, including central-bank rate decisions and key US and eurozone data, while developments in China and the ongoing war could also shape markets and influence Indonesia’s rupiah, foreign capital flows and government bond demand.

Successfully Held, DAHANA Run 2026 Draws 2,800 Runners

State-owned explosives manufacturer PT DAHANA marked the close of its 60th anniversary celebrations with a 10-kilometre run in Subang, attended by 2,800 participants. The company said the event was intended to encourage public interest in sport, foster collaboration among institutions and partners, and promote local tourism and small businesses.

Arabs Travelled to Indonesia in Search of a Plant Mentioned in the Quran

Historical accounts describe Arab merchants travelling to Barus in Sumatra to obtain camphor, a prized natural product associated with a plant mentioned in the Quran. The trade helped make Barus an important port and brought Arab merchants into contact with local communities, contributing to the spread of Islam and linking Indonesia to wider trading networks.

Santri of the Year 2026 Awards: INC Honours 20 Figures and Islamic Boarding Schools

The Islam Nusantara Center (INC) held its 10th Santri of the Year awards in Jakarta, recognising 20 individuals and pesantren for their contributions across various fields. INC says the awards aim to raise public awareness of santri and pesantren, whose roles extend beyond religious education into areas including government, the economy, education and the arts.

Construction of Teupin Mane Bridge 90% Complete, Opening Targeted for November

Reconstruction of the Teupin Mane Bridge in Aceh is 90% complete, with the structure expected to open in November 2026. It will replace the emergency Bailey bridge and is expected to improve regional travel and goods distribution, helping restore economic activity along the Bireuen–Takengon route.

Former Deputy Attorney-General for Special Crimes to Attend Preliminary Ruling Hearing in Extortion and Money-Laundering Case

Former Deputy Attorney-General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah and two co-defendants are scheduled to hear a preliminary ruling in a case involving alleged extortion and money laundering. Febrie is accused of seeking S$5 million from a witness in the Jiwasraya corruption case and laundering assets worth Rp354.62 billion; the ruling will determine whether the trial proceeds to examination of the main charges.

MP: Tarik Tombur Toba to Be Staged on a Larger Scale Next Year

The first Tarik Tombur Toba event at Atsari Beach in Parapat attracted nearly 2,000 visitors, and organiser and MP Bane Raja Manalu says it will return on a larger scale next year. He hopes the event will boost tourism and economic activity in Parapat and the wider Lake Toba region.

Sucofindo Promotes Value-Added Management of Used Cooking Oil

Sucofindo and Noovoleum Indonesia Investama have installed a UCOllect Box at Sucofindo’s Jakarta headquarters to encourage the organised collection of used cooking oil. The initiative aims to prevent pollution, support circular-economy practices and enable the waste to be reused as an alternative energy feedstock, while encouraging employees to adopt the habit at home.

63 Economic Experts Assess Indonesia’s Economy Ahead of the End of 2026

A survey by the University of Indonesia’s LPEM found that 52% of 63 economists believe Indonesia’s economic conditions have worsened over the past three months. Experts also cited high inflation, weaker job creation and a deteriorating business environment, as official third-quarter growth figures have yet to be released.

Lula da Silva Wins Brazil’s Run-off to Secure Fourth Presidential Term

Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has defeated right-wing senator Flávio Bolsonaro in Brazil’s presidential run-off, winning 51.75% of the vote to Bolsonaro’s 48.25%. The result secures Lula a fourth, non-consecutive term and comes amid a deeply divisive campaign and controversy over a two-hour extension to voting in some areas.

Indonesia-China laboratory develops metallurgical research and talent

A US$30 million joint laboratory at Bandung Institute of Technology is expanding research capacity in new energy materials and metallurgy, while helping train specialists for Indonesia’s mineral-processing industry. Alongside research facilities, the partnership between GEM, ITB and Central South University has supported postgraduate scholarships and aims to train 100 doctoral graduates, 1,000 master’s graduates and 10,000 skilled workers by 2035.

2026 Youth Pledge Day Ceremony Guide: Time, Dress Code, Programme, Prayer and Song Lyrics

Indonesia’s Ministry of Youth and Sports has issued guidance for ceremonies marking the 98th Youth Pledge Day on 28 October 2026, with events due to begin at 8 am local time. The guide sets out the ceremony programme and attire recommendations, and includes the official prayer, the 1928 Youth Pledge text and lyrics for two national songs.

Japanese companies compensate users as cyberattacks buffet economy

GMO Internet Group will compensate customers affected by unauthorised access to its foreign-exchange trading service, while also offering all customers an initial ¥5,000 payment. The incidents, alongside a separate data breach at Park24 and widespread exploitation of PHP vulnerabilities, have intensified concerns about cyber risks to businesses and customer data in Japan.

Deputy Investment Minister Todotua Pasaribu Honoured for Contributions to Engineering

Deputy Investment and Downstreaming Minister Todotua Pasaribu received an Honorary Fellow Award at the 44th Conference of the ASEAN Federation of Engineering Associations in Bandung. The recognition highlights the role of engineering expertise, technology and innovation in supporting quality investment and industrial downstreaming, while the conference brought together more than 1,200 participants from across ASEAN.

JCI Ends the Week Higher: Five Stocks to Watch Today

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) rose 0.95% on Friday, although foreign investors remained net sellers and concerns over MSCI-related uncertainty and a weaker rupiah persisted. The article also reports strong earnings growth at Darma Henwa, mixed results at Sat Nusapersada, and major fundraising and acquisition plans by PACK, alongside five trading recommendations.

BMKG Forecasts Light Rain in Parts of Jakarta on Monday Afternoon

BMKG forecasts light rain in North Jakarta and the Thousand Islands on Monday morning, with Central, South and East Jakarta likely to see light showers in the afternoon. Temperatures are expected to range from 25 to 30°C, and authorities have urged residents to prepare for changing weather and possible flooding.

Bandung Mayor Responds to Clash at Caringin Market That Left Two Dead

Bandung Mayor Muhammad Farhan condemned a clash at Caringin Central Market that killed two people and urged police to identify and arrest those responsible. The city will coordinate with police and seek information from the privately run market’s management, particularly regarding security, given the market’s importance to the surrounding area and food distribution.

19,251 Indonesians Forecast to Die by February 2027 Because of El Niño

A report projects nearly half a million excess deaths worldwide from extreme heat linked to El Niño by February 2027, including an estimated 19,251 in Indonesia, the second-highest national figure. The estimates are not recorded deaths; forecasters warn that the strengthening climate phenomenon could intensify heatwaves, droughts, floods and wildfires, with broader consequences for economies and communities.

JCI Rebounds After MSCI Shock, OJK Presents the Evidence

Indonesia’s Composite Stock Price Index (JCI) rose 4.9% during 19–23 October after falling sharply following an unexpected MSCI statement on 16 October. The Financial Services Authority (OJK) said the rebound made the JCI the best-performing index among global markets that week, and outlined measures including the lower auto-rejection limit, continued share buy-backs and engagement with investors and market participants.

BNI: Additional Liquidity from Lower Reserve Requirements to Support Lending – BCA Sekuritas

BNI says the additional liquidity created by a reduction in the reserve requirement (GWM) could strengthen banks’ capacity to lend, provided it is accompanied by prudent practices and robust risk management. The bank plans to focus on productive sectors while protecting asset quality, liquidity and capital adequacy, in line with Bank Indonesia’s efforts to balance economic stability and growth.

Why Has Australia Delayed Buying 28 F-35s?

Australia has deferred plans to buy 28 additional F-35A fighters, redirecting investment towards long-range weapons and other defence priorities while extending the service life of its Super Hornets. The decision is not a permanent cancellation: Canberra says its existing 72 F-35As are highly capable, and has committed nearly A$736 million to acquire AIM-260 missiles, initially for the Super Hornet fleet.

Latest Bank Mandiri, BRI and BNI Deposit Rates as at 26 October 2026

BRI, BNI and Bank Mandiri have left their rupiah deposit rates unchanged, according to checks of their official websites on 26 October 2026. The highest rates cited are 3.00% at BRI, 2.75% at BNI and 2.50% at Mandiri; deposits may be covered by Indonesia’s Deposit Insurance Corporation (LPS) up to Rp2 billion per depositor per bank, subject to its conditions.

Mosque Cooperatives and BKPRMI Urged to Become New Drivers of the Community’s Economy

Cooperatives based at mosques could be managed by members of the Indonesian Mosque Youth Communication Board (BKPRMI), with support from the Ministry of Cooperatives and access to financing through Islamic economic institutions and banks. The initiative aims to turn mosques into centres of economic development, while BKPRMI also called for better pay and social security for Qur’an teachers.

Indonesia Cuts Gas Exports as Singapore Reaffirms Contractual Commitment

Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong said gas imports from Indonesia remain governed by binding commercial contracts and that importers will protect their rights under those agreements. The temporary reduction of 17 billion British thermal units a day represents less than 2 per cent of Singapore’s daily gas demand, while the city-state says LNG imports and fuel reserves provide alternatives to pipeline supplies.

World Nuclear Association: Southeast Asia Plans 37 GW of Nuclear Power by 2050

The World Nuclear Association says Southeast Asian countries plan to develop around 37 gigawatts of nuclear capacity by 2050, about a quarter of the ambitions of all newcomer countries worldwide. It argues the region is well positioned to adopt nuclear power, but must build regulatory frameworks, workforce and industrial capacity, ideally through coordinated national and regional programmes.

Japan indicts US Marine on murder charge in Okinawa

Japanese prosecutors have indicted a 20-year-old US Marine on murder and robbery charges over the alleged killing of a 39-year-old woman in Okinawa. The case has renewed public anger over crimes involving US military personnel and prompted reviews of rules governing troops’ off-duty conduct, amid wider debate about Okinawa’s burden of hosting US forces.

OJK Shares Key Update on Indonesian Stock Market

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) said Indonesia’s stock market has shown resilience amid uncertainty following an announcement by global index provider MSCI. OJK executive Hasan Fawzi said the market’s performance supports cautious optimism while reinforcing the need to advance reforms to strengthen capital-market integrity and investor confidence.

LPG Prices for 3kg, 5.5kg and 12kg Cylinders at Agents and Depots as of 26 October

The Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry says subsidised 3kg LPG prices will remain unchanged in October 2026, while subsidised fuel prices are also expected to stay fixed through the end of the year. Non-subsidised Bright Gas prices rose in September, with regional agent prices varying; in South Tangerang, 5.5kg and 12kg cylinders are now being sold at higher prices than before.

Jogja Weather Today: Rain in Sleman and Gunungkidul

The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) in Yogyakarta forecasts rain across much of the Special Region of Yogyakarta on 26 October, with moderate downpours expected in higher areas including Kaliurang and the Menoreh Hills. Bantul is expected to remain cloudy, while most of Gunungkidul will see light rain except along its coastal tourism areas.

National Internship Batch 3 Opens on 27 October: Eligibility and How to Apply

Registration for companies in the third batch of the MagangHub national internship programme opens on 27 October 2026, with 70,000 private-sector placements available. The programme is aimed at recent graduates and sets out eligibility rules, application stages and instructions for creating a SIAPkerja account and applying for placements.

Yesterday’s political news: Former TNI commander dies, and PKB remembers Fathan Subchi

Sunday’s political coverage included the death and state funeral of former Indonesian Armed Forces (TNI) commander Widodo Adi Sutjipto, whom former president Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono described as a soldier and statesman. Other stories covered Gerindra’s response to reports of a meeting involving Singapore’s ambassador, and the expected return from Russia of BPK member Fathan Subchi, remembered by PKB figures as a hard worker.

Israeli Bombing of Gaza’s Islamic University Building Kills Staff and Injures Students

An Israeli air strike on Gaza’s Islamic University killed at least three administrative staff and injured eight students, according to local hospital and university sources. Gaza’s Education Ministry says the attack occurred during classes and condemned the damage to higher education institutions, while Israeli forces said they were investigating reports of the strike.

Is Cold Rice Healthier? The Benefits and Risks

Cooled rice contains more resistant starch than freshly cooked rice, which may support gut health, help regulate blood sugar and keep people feeling fuller for longer. However, improperly cooled or stored rice can harbour Bacillus cereus and cause food poisoning, so safe storage is essential.

Tax-Free Employee Benefits and Higher Tax Threshold Included in 2027 Incentive Package

The government is preparing nine tax and non-tax incentives for 2027, including income tax relief for employees earning up to Rp10 million a month and a planned increase in the tax-free income threshold. The measures also cover vocational and internship programmes, housing and social security support, and tax relief for gold and silver, while the article highlights separate concerns over tax administration and local tax policies.

Latest Wave of Protests in Europe: From France and Portugal to Italy

Demonstrations across France, Italy and Portugal have brought together protesters over education, the cost of living, opposition to war and a worsening housing crisis. The rallies led to clashes and arrests in several cities, while Portugal’s housing protests highlighted sharp rises in property prices and rents that are putting particular pressure on young people.

Building a Collaborative Model for Judicial Oversight

The article argues that disputes between Indonesia’s Supreme Court and Judicial Commission over the boundary between judicial ethics and technical judicial matters have weakened accountability, with 75 per cent of the Commission’s decisions reportedly not acted upon on technical grounds between 2005 and 2025. It proposes a joint Judicial Oversight Agency to harmonise oversight while safeguarding judicial independence, including screening complaints, handling minor and moderate ethical breaches, and referring serious misconduct or suspected criminal transactions through the appropriate channels.

9 Signs of High Blood Sugar That Often Go Unnoticed

High blood sugar can develop with subtle or no symptoms, yet prolonged elevation may indicate diabetes and raise the risk of complications. The article outlines nine possible warning signs and stresses that symptoms alone cannot confirm diabetes, making medical assessment and screening important, particularly for people with risk factors.

Gold Prices for Galeri 24, UBS, Antam and Antam Retro Today, 26 October 2026

Pegadaian’s gold prices were broadly unchanged on Monday, 26 October, with one-gram bars from Galeri 24, Antam and Antam Mulia Retro holding steady. UBS gold was also reported at Rp2,491,000 per gram, despite a description in the article that it had weakened; the report says this was unchanged from the previous day.

BMKG Warns of Possible Thunderstorms in Pontianak and Banjarmasin Today

Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has forecast varied weather across the country on Monday, 26 October, including thunderstorms in parts of Pontianak and Banjarmasin. Rainfall is expected to range from light to moderate in many areas, while haze and cloudy conditions are forecast elsewhere.

Weather Forecast: Rain Possible in Several Parts of Indonesia Today

BMKG forecasts rain of varying intensity across several parts of Indonesia on Monday, 26 October, including thunderstorms in Tanjung Pinang, Pontianak and Banjarmasin. Other areas are expected to see light or moderate rain, haze or cloudy conditions, prompting residents to remain alert to local weather changes.

Overly Controlling Parents: The Effects on Children’s Mental Health

Excessive parental control, often driven by a desire to protect children from hardship, can undermine their independence and leave them feeling neglected. Psychological control is associated with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem and loneliness, and its effects may persist into adulthood; common warning signs include intrusion into privacy, unrealistic expectations and disregarding children’s views.

DPR Commission I Fears for Indonesians After Houthis Target Makkah, Urges Indonesia to Take a Stand

Members of DPR Commission I have urged the Indonesian government to use diplomatic channels to help halt the escalating conflict after Saudi Arabia said intercepted Houthi missile debris fell 20 kilometres from the Grand Mosque in Makkah. They stressed the need to protect Indonesian citizens, including Umrah pilgrims, and called for active engagement through bilateral and multilateral forums as the security situation develops.

Polemics After Runners Break Through COP Barricades at HM JRF Gold Label Event

Runners at the 2026 Jakarta Running Festival’s Gold Label half marathon broke through barricades after being stopped at a Cut-Off Point, prompting debate over timekeeping rules and safety. Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung said participants must comply with the strict cut-off regulations, which are tied to international standards and the safe reopening of public roads.

Yesterday’s Legal News: Malang City Government’s Request to Police and LHKPN

Malang City Government has asked police to investigate a fire at Supit Urang landfill, while a KPK deputy chairman has proposed allowing the state to seize officials’ assets omitted from their wealth reports. Other developments include calls for an intensified anti-drugs effort, a police operation against an ecstasy network in Mesuji and the seizure of 1,734 litres of subsidised fuel in East Lombok.

Mathematics Professor Proves the Route to Wealth, Amassing Rp482 Trillion

James “Jim” Simons, the mathematician who founded Renaissance Technologies, built a fortune through quantitative investing and the firm’s exceptionally successful Medallion Fund. Between 1988 and 2018, the fund generated more than US$100 billion in profits, while Simons’ estimated wealth reached US$30.7 billion before his death in 2024.

Will Civil Servants’ Salaries Be Paid Through Village Cooperatives? Three Prabowo Ministers Respond

The government has no current plan to route civil servants’ salaries through the Merah Putih Village Cooperatives, with payments expected to continue through banks. Cooperatives Minister Ferry Juliantono said the proposal remains a discussion-stage idea and that he will consult the Finance Ministry, although he sees cooperatives as a possible channel for salary and pension payments.

Box Truck Suffers Tyre Problem, Causing Traffic on Jl Letjen S Parman Towards Slipi

A box truck suffered a tyre problem on Jl Letjen S Parman in West Jakarta, causing traffic to build up on the approach towards Slipi. Police traffic officers were at the scene directing vehicles, which could still pass in the other lanes.

A Warm Evening with Cabinet Secretary Teddy at a Sekolah Rakyat: Singing Together and Seeing Students Off to Rest

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya made an unannounced evening visit to an integrated Sekolah Rakyat in Bekasi to see students’ boarding facilities and check that educational services were operating well. He sang with pupils, delivered gifts from President Prabowo Subianto and encouraged them to study hard and pursue their ambitions.

Thousands of Tonnes of Indonesian Palm Oil Flow to Israel: What Route Does It Take?

Indonesian exports of palm oil and coconut products to Israel have continued despite the absence of diplomatic relations, with the two commodities worth about US$20.79 million in the first eight months of 2026. A study found Indonesia supplied an average 71.1 per cent of Israel’s crude palm oil imports in 2020–2025, while Israel accounted for less than 0.12 per cent of Indonesia’s CPO exports; Indonesian export rules did not specifically distinguish Israel from other destinations.

Singapore Prepares Serious Response to Indonesia’s Gas Export Cuts

Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong said gas importers would take the steps necessary to protect their contractual rights after Indonesia reduced pipeline gas exports. The cut is reported to be a small share of Singapore’s daily gas use, while Indonesia says the adjustment is intended to safeguard domestic electricity supplies.

Mobile Samsat services available in 14 Jadetabek areas on Monday

The Jakarta Metro Police will operate mobile Samsat units across 14 locations in Jakarta, Depok, Tangerang and Bekasi on Monday, making it easier for motorists to pay their annual vehicle tax. Taxpayers must bring their original identity card, vehicle ownership book and registration certificate, with photocopies; the mobile service does not handle five-year registration renewals or number-plate replacements.

PNKT Recognises High-Achieving and Innovative Youth Organisations

The National Executive Board of Karang Taruna (PNKT) recognised outstanding youth organisations, social innovators and local leaders at the 2026 National Karang Taruna Service Month event in Yogyakarta. The programme also celebrated School for the People students and highlighted the organisation’s disaster-relief work, while officials called for sustained support to help community initiatives deliver measurable benefits.

Deputy Social Affairs Minister Opens Child Welfare Park and Distributes Assistance in Surakarta

Deputy Social Affairs Minister Agus Jabo Priyono has inaugurated the ‘Sae’ Child Welfare Park in Surakarta, one of 11 centres run by the Ministry of Social Affairs to support vulnerable families with childcare, early education, nutrition and developmental services. The event also included social rehabilitation assistance for parents, including funding and business packages worth between Rp2.49 million and Rp4.05 million.

Poland Opens the Door to Turkey’s Bayraktar, Now Used on NATO Missions

Poland and Turkey are discussing upgrades to Poland’s Bayraktar TB2 drones, technology transfer and joint investment in the defence industry. Poland, the first NATO and EU member to buy the Turkish drones in 2021, has since deployed them from Turkey in support of NATO surveillance missions.

Pramono Reiterates Rules After JRF Runners’ Breach of Cut-Offs Draws Attention

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung said the Jakarta Running Festival’s strict cut-off point and cut-off time rules are required by the event’s international Gold Label standards, after runners were filmed forcing their way past barriers when they missed the deadlines. He also welcomed relatively low air-pollution readings during the event, while saying efforts to maintain Jakarta’s air quality must continue.

Breaking: Lula Wins Brazil’s Presidential Election, Defeating Former President’s Son

Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has won a fourth presidential term in Brazil, defeating right-wing senator Flávio Bolsonaro with 51.75% of the vote. The result marks a political comeback for Lula but leaves him facing a sharply divided electorate, a right-dominated Congress and economic and security challenges.

Jobseekers in Jakarta Could Get Free Public Transport: Eligibility Criteria and How to Apply

Jakarta will extend its free public transport scheme to jobseekers from 1 January 2027, with priority given to people who have never worked and are currently looking for a job. The provincial government has yet to announce the application process, required documents or verification arrangements.

Woman Killed in Crocodile Attack as Fiancé Watches

A 24-year-old woman, Selviana Ambu Kaka, was killed in a crocodile attack while bathing in the Bondo Kodi River in Southwest Sumba, East Nusa Tenggara. Her fiancé and sister-in-law witnessed the attack; her body was found several hours later with multiple bite wounds.

Baznas Indonesia Deploys Personnel to Tackle Forest and Land Fires in Kalimantan

Baznas has deployed 70 disaster-response personnel to tackle forest and land fires in several parts of Indonesia, with a particular focus on Kalimantan. Its efforts include firefighting, medical support and humanitarian aid, while an oxygen health centre in Palangka Raya has provided care to 261 people.

Six Household Items Said to Bring Bad Luck According to Feng Shui

Feng shui practitioners say certain household items—including dead plants, broken objects and stagnant water—can impede positive energy and invite bad luck. The article outlines six items to remove, repair or reposition, reflecting traditional beliefs about how the home environment affects harmony and wellbeing.

Floods Surround Four Villages in Aceh as Farmers Struggle to Harvest for a Week

Flooding caused by heavy rain and a breached river embankment has inundated four villages in South Aceh and submerged farmland in Aceh Tamiang, where farmers have struggled to harvest rice for more than a week. Around 70 per cent of productive rice fields in Teluk Halban were affected near harvest time, with crops rotting and grain falling as farmers resorted to manual harvesting amid difficult conditions.

ChatGPT Owner Nears US$1 Trillion Valuation

OpenAI is reportedly seeking up to US$30 billion in fresh funding at a US$1.25 trillion valuation, with investors from the United Arab Emirates and Coatue leading the round. The fundraising comes as the company negotiates a UAE computing-capacity deal and prepares for steep spending, while reports of a possible 2027 IPO remain at odds with CEO Sam Altman’s comments.

Media: 1,314 People Arrested During Protests in France on Saturday

French media report that 1,314 people were arrested and 53 law-enforcement officers injured during a new wave of protests across France on Saturday. About 410,000 people took part nationwide, including an estimated 110,000 in Paris; the previous week’s demonstrations drew around 550,000 participants and resulted in 2,397 arrests.

Local content rules and incentives in focus as Indonesia’s EV edge fades

Arthur D. Little says Indonesia should phase and tailor electric-vehicle local content requirements to component complexity, supplier readiness and technological maturity, helping build domestic manufacturing while keeping investment commercially viable. Indonesia’s electric-mobility readiness score improved, but its ranking slipped to 24th as Thailand and Vietnam scored higher, highlighting regional competition in supplier networks and infrastructure.

Indonesia’s gas export cuts: a costly blow to trust and regional leadership

Indonesia’s decision to reduce natural gas exports to Singapore from Oct. 24 could weaken investor confidence and the country’s reputation as a reliable economic partner, despite the legitimate priority of domestic energy security. With business investment intentions already declining, the article argues that the government should explain whether the cuts were negotiated under existing contracts and improve legal certainty through its planned oil and gas law reforms.

Kenya Continues Search for Seven People Missing after Nairobi Building Collapse

Kenyan authorities have resumed search-and-rescue operations for seven people believed to have been inside shops when a building collapsed in Nairobi’s Eastleigh area. Investigators are examining whether regulatory or professional standards were breached, while officials have identified the developer, contractor and registered professionals involved.

From Roadmap to Growth Engine: A New Architecture for National Islamic Finance

Indonesia’s Islamic finance sector has assets exceeding Rp3,250 trillion, yet Islamic financial inclusion remains far below the national rate, highlighting a gap between industry growth and public benefit. The article argues for coordinated policy across financial and halal sectors, alongside stronger links between commercial Islamic finance and zakat, waqf and other social finance to support inclusive, sustainable growth.

Two People Killed in Attack at Bandung’s Caringin Market

Two men have died after a group of around 30 people attacked them at Caringin Market in Bandung, with a third victim injured. Police say the violence may have stemmed from a misunderstanding between a parking attendant and a market porter over an alleged theft of onions; suspects are being pursued.

Warning: Thunderstorms Could Hit Major Indonesian Cities; See the Forecast

Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has forecast varied conditions across the country on Monday, including thunderstorms in Tanjung Pinang, parts of Pontianak and Banjarmasin, and moderate rain in Medan and Bandung. The forecast also highlights light rain, haze and cloudy conditions across several other regions, with residents advised to stay alert to possible severe weather.

JCI Ends the Week Higher as Foreign Investors Buy These 10 Shares

Indonesia’s Composite Stock Price Index (JCI) rose 4.90% over the week to 5,453.134, recovering from the previous week’s sharp correction after MSCI’s announcement. Foreign investors were net sellers overall, but accumulated net purchases in ten listed companies, led by Amman Mineral Internasional and Puradelta Lestari.

JCI Rebounds as Foreign Investors Sell Rp8 Trillion of Shares

Indonesia’s Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) rose 4.90% to 5,439 in the week to 23 October 2026, even as foreign investors recorded Rp8 trillion in net sales on the regular market. Market direction for the coming week will depend on global rate and geopolitical developments, domestic earnings and policy signals, as well as investor concerns over market governance and investability ahead of an MSCI index announcement.

These Are the Best Drinks for Kidney Health, Not Just Plain Water

More than 700,000 people in Indonesia have chronic kidney disease, while over 200,000 active patients receive regular haemodialysis, according to Health Ministry data. The article highlights that suitable fluid choices can support kidney health, while cautioning that excessive intake may be harmful, particularly for people with advanced disease.

Digital Preaching by Santri Amid a Crisis of Expertise

The article argues that Islamic boarding-school students (santri) must engage with digital platforms without sacrificing scholarly rigour or their religious identity. Drawing on modern communication theory and classical Muslim thinkers, it proposes six strategies—including making scholarly credentials visible, adapting knowledge carefully to short formats, acknowledging limits, fostering dialogue, teaching digital verification and collaborating across disciplines—to build trust online.

Creative Economy to Be Added to University Learning Enhancement Agenda

Higher Education, Science and Technology Minister Brian Yuliarto says creative economy and mastery of science and technology are both vital to Indonesia’s ambition to become a high-income country. The ministry plans to strengthen creative-economy content in entrepreneurship learning across degree programmes and hold a university creative-work competition in 2027, while sector leaders stress the need for stronger funding, digital infrastructure and fair remuneration.

Six Financial Mistakes Parents Should Avoid to Protect Their Family

The article warns that secret borrowing, supporting relatives without discussion and lending money that may not be repaid can undermine a household’s finances. It also highlights the risks of lacking health cover and using children’s education savings for trading, urging couples to plan openly and protect funds set aside for long-term needs.

Residents in Yogyakarta Panic as Old Plengkung Nirbaya Siren Sounds Without Warning

Residents near Plengkung Gading in Yogyakarta were startled when the historic Gauk siren sounded for about five minutes on Saturday night. Police said a short circuit may have caused it; the siren was switched off after residents confirmed there was no emergency.

Baznas RI Reaffirms Support for Strengthening Indonesian Family Resilience

Baznas RI says zakat, infak and sedekah can help support seven pillars of family resilience, from education and health to food and economic security. It plans to collaborate with Wanita Syarikat Islam on programmes including scholarships, disaster response, healthcare and housing, with the aim of strengthening family welfare and helping nurture a capable future generation.

Latest: BYD Driver Who Ran Over Ride-Hailing Driver Named Suspect

Police have named the driver of a BYD electric car as a suspect after a series of collisions in South Jakarta left a ride-hailing motorcyclist with a broken leg. The victim has undergone surgery and remains under observation, while investigators say the driver was reportedly startled and panicked; urine tests found no alcohol or drugs.

Singapore and Indonesia Race to Build Nuclear Power Plants

Singapore is exploring nuclear power as it seeks to reduce its reliance on natural gas, following Indonesia’s cut to gas exports under existing supply arrangements. Indonesia, meanwhile, aims to select a site for its first nuclear power plant by 2027, as both neighbours weigh nuclear energy’s role in securing reliable electricity and supporting economic growth.

1.6 Tonnes of Ketamine Smuggling Foiled; MP Says Network Must Be Thoroughly Investigated

An Indonesian MP has praised a multi-agency operation that intercepted a large ketamine shipment from the MT Global 168 off Belawan, North Sumatra. He urged authorities to investigate the wider smuggling network and strengthen surveillance of waters and ports, warning that the drug trade threatens public safety and young people.

Despite Late-Week Gains in the Jakarta Composite Index, Foreign Investors Continue to Sell These 10 Stocks

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) rose 4.90% last week, recovering from the sharp correction that followed MSCI’s announcement. Foreign investors nevertheless recorded net selling of Rp8.73 trillion across the market, led by large disposals of BCA and Bank Rakyat Indonesia shares.

Traffic Congestion on Several Jakarta-Bound Toll Roads on Monday Morning

Traffic was congested at several points on toll roads heading towards Jakarta on Monday morning, largely because of high vehicle volumes. Authorities introduced contraflow measures on the Dalam Kota and Jagorawi toll roads, while road repairs also caused delays on the Jakarta–Cikampek toll road.

Patuh 2026 Traffic Operation Begins Today, Targeting 11 Offences

Indonesia’s National Police Traffic Corps has launched the nationwide Patuh 2026 operation, running from 26 October to 8 November. Enforcement will focus on 11 traffic violations detected through electronic cameras, including mobile phone use while driving, speeding, ignoring signals and improper vehicle registration plates.

Bullying of 13 Ciputat Junior High School Girls Raises Alarm; Child Commission Calls for Perpetrators to Face Action

Indonesia’s Child Protection Commission (KPAI) says the alleged bullying of 13 girls at a junior high school in Ciputat highlights the continuing problem of violence in education. It has urged accountability for those involved, stronger prevention efforts and support for victims, while police report that three girls were treated in hospital after being made to drink a mixture of coffee, vinegar and garlic.

Three Decades in Photography: RICOH GR Launches 30th Anniversary Special Edition Camera

RICOH GR has marked its 30-year history with the Indonesian launch of a limited-edition GR IV kit, drawing design inspiration from its original GR1 film camera. Only 6,000 units will be made worldwide, with the kit priced at Rp33.9 million and sold with a one-year official warranty in Indonesia.

Manpower Ministry Invites Companies and Government Agencies to Join MagangHub

The Manpower Ministry is inviting companies, government agencies, independent state institutions and state-owned enterprises/Danantara to register as providers for the third batch of the 2026 National Internship Programme. Provider registration closes on 29 October, with placements due to begin on 16 November after applications, recruitment and selection.

How to Apply for Digital Social Assistance: Target of 48 Million Households by 2026

Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf says the government aims to register 48 million households on its Digital Social Protection platform by the end of 2026, with more than 13.2 million already enrolled. The system combines re-registration and biometric verification of existing beneficiaries with a channel for people to apply, while stressing that registration does not guarantee eligibility and that volunteer agents may not charge fees.

DKI Yesterday: Air Quality Improves as Jakarta Running Festival Takes Place

Jakarta’s environmental agency recorded lower concentrations of several pollutants, while Governor Pramono Anung said major events including the Jakarta Running Festival, a Kanye West concert and Pestapora reflected the capital’s sound macroeconomic condition. Other developments included uncertainty over relocation plans for Taman Puring traders, the inauguration of a church after a 25-year process, and the governor’s call for Jakarta Running Festival to set a standard for running events nationwide.

MUI Deputy Chairman: Santri Must Master the Digital Space, Not Just Watch

MUI Deputy Chairman KH M Muhammad Cholil Nafis has urged Muslim communities, particularly santri, to actively create positive and educational online content grounded in Islamic values. He said digital literacy and ethical technology use are essential as online material shapes public perceptions and can be used for either good or harm.

How to Check Whether Someone Else Has Used Your ID Card Number to Take Out an Online Loan

Personal data from Indonesian identity cards can be misused to apply for online loans, potentially leaving victims with unauthorised debts and damaged credit records. The article explains how to check credit records through the OJK’s SLIK service and legitimate lending apps, and outlines steps to report suspected identity theft and protect personal data.

Unbowed: Macklemore Continues to Speak Up for Palestine After Being Dropped from Ed Sheeran Tour

Macklemore used his first concert appearance since being removed from Ed Sheeran’s tour to reaffirm his support for Palestinians and call attention to humanitarian crises in several other countries. The rapper said his message was rooted in compassion, while the dispute over his earlier pro-Palestinian performance led some venues to object to his inclusion on the tour.

Once Reliant on the West, Turkey’s Weapons Are Now Used by European Militaries

Turkey has shifted from relying on US and European arms supplies to supplying military technology and equipment to European forces, while expanding joint production and development with European partners. Italy plans to acquire six Astore Levante drones developed by Baykar and Leonardo, and Otokar’s Cobra II armoured vehicles are being delivered to Romania, including through local production.

Health Minister Goes Viral Using Oxygen Cylinder: ‘I Was Not Short of Breath’

Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin said a viral photograph of him using an oxygen cylinder in Palangka Raya was taken during an educational visit, not because he was experiencing breathing difficulties. He inspected oxygen facilities prepared to help residents and firefighters affected by air pollution from forest and land fires, urging anyone who becomes short of breath to seek prompt care.

Pemuteran Bay Festival 2026 to Be Held Free from 26 to 28 November: Schedule and Events

Pemuteran Bay Festival will run in Buleleng from 26 to 28 November 2026, combining local arts and culture with marine tourism and conservation activities. Admission is free, while activities such as diving and snorkelling may incur separate charges; the programme also includes coral restoration and environmental education.

Israeli Election to Be Held Tomorrow: Eight Scenarios That Could Decide Netanyahu’s Fate

Israel’s 27 October election could reshape Benjamin Netanyahu’s political future, but the outcome will depend on coalition negotiations in a fragmented 120-seat Knesset. Eight possible scenarios range from Netanyahu retaining power to an opposition-led or minority government, a unity arrangement, or another election if no coalition can be agreed.

Preserving Jemparingan, Mataram-Style Traditional Archery

A community event in Semarang introduced younger participants to jemparingan, a traditional form of Mataram-style archery, as part of activities marking Youth Pledge Day 2026. Recognised as Indonesian Intangible Cultural Heritage, the practice is being sustained through public events so it can be passed on to future generations.

BI Holds Rate at 5.75% as Economist Calls Move a Measured Step to Safeguard Stability and Growth

Bank Indonesia has kept its policy rate at 5.75% while raising the Deposit Facility rate to 5%, alongside measures intended to stabilise the rupiah and support sustainable growth. It will also cut reserve requirements in stages, a move the central bank estimates could inject around Rp190 trillion in additional banking liquidity.

Yesterday: Health Minister’s alleged breathing difficulties and halal certification deadline for MSMEs postponed

The article rounds up five human-interest stories, including the government’s denial that Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin suffered breathing difficulties during a visit to Palangka Raya and the postponement of mandatory halal certification for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises until 2028. It also reports on a mountain rescue, efforts to tackle a forest fire in Way Kambas National Park, and free rice assistance for 33.2 million recipients.

Government preparing framework to involve MSMEs in supplying food for free meals programme

The Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises is developing a framework to expand MSME participation in supplying ingredients to the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. More than 68,000 businesses already supply kitchens run by Nutrition Service Fulfilment Units, but the ministry says participation needs to grow further as the government seeks to strengthen the people’s economy.

Yesterday: The Best Time to Wash Your Face and the Tecno Megabook K15S

This roundup of lifestyle, technology, automotive and entertainment stories includes a survey ranking Communications and Digital Minister Meutya Hafid among the Cabinet’s ten best-performing ministers, as well as the launch of Tecno’s Megabook K15S laptop in Indonesia. It also covers skincare advice, a forthcoming film and newly revealed interior options for Denza’s N8 electric vehicle.

Crime roundup: Pickpockets at a free concert and drug dealers

Police in Jakarta arrested two suspected pickpockets during a free concert in Setiabudi and seized 75.78 grams of suspected methamphetamine from an alleged dealer in Cengkareng. Officers also arrested three suspected drug offenders in Tambora, with one believed to be a dealer and two suspected of drug use.

Minister: Halal certification deadline postponed on president’s orders

UMKM Minister Maman Abdurrahman says the deadline for mandatory halal certification for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises has been postponed from October 2026 to 2028 at President Prabowo Subianto’s direction. The government cited missed certification targets and businesses’ difficulties meeting administrative requirements, and says it will seek a mechanism that balances the statutory obligation with UMKM’s capacity.

Diabetes Can Also Affect Young People: Know the Risk Factors

Diabetes can affect children, teenagers and young adults, and type 2 diabetes may develop gradually without obvious early symptoms. Family history, excess weight, inactivity, dietary habits, prediabetes and other metabolic or pregnancy-related factors can increase risk, while type 1 diabetes has a distinct autoimmune cause and cannot be prevented through lifestyle changes alone.

Memories and Grief as Widodo AS Is Laid to Rest

Former Indonesian military chief Admiral (Ret.) Widodo Adi Sutjipto has died, prompting tributes from senior officials and former leaders who recalled his role in uniting the armed forces during the post-1998 reform transition. He was buried with military honours in Jakarta; his career included leading the Navy and the TNI, serving as Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal and Security Affairs, and joining the Presidential Advisory Council.

Gold Slumps to US$3,900 as Major Headwind Looms Over Recovery Attempt

Gold fell below US$4,000 an ounce after losing 4.1% in a week, with investors weighing whether it can recover or face further pressure from a strong US dollar and uncertainty over interest rates. The Federal Reserve’s policy decision is a key near-term catalyst, while analysts point to US$3,970 as support and say a move above US$4,230 would strengthen the case that the correction has ended. Central-bank buying remains a longer-term support, though it does not rule out further declines.

URI Governor Visits Prabowo’s Hambalang Home to Discuss New Campus in Bogor

President Prabowo Subianto met Universitas Republik Indonesia (URI) Governor Donny Ermawan Taufanto to discuss the university’s leadership education programmes and plans for a new facility in Bogor. The meeting also covered 384 participants in the President’s Future Leaders Programme, who are scheduled to begin internships in early 2027; a parliamentary committee member has previously said it had received no formal information about URI’s legal basis, functions or budget.

The dangers of reheating rice repeatedly: it can cause food poisoning

Rice left at room temperature after cooking can allow Bacillus cereus bacteria to multiply, and reheating it does not necessarily make it safe. The article outlines potential vomiting and diarrhoea symptoms, their typical onset, and advice on hydration and seeking medical care.

Food Allergy or Intolerance? Five Key Differences

Food allergies involve an immune response and can cause life-threatening anaphylaxis, while food intolerances usually stem from difficulty digesting or processing particular ingredients. The article outlines differences in symptoms, timing, triggers and health risks, and advises medical assessment rather than self-diagnosis or unsupported home tests.

Startup Creates AI-Designed Virus and Injects It into a Human Patient

Radical Numerics says it used AI to design a bacteriophage and injected it into a patient to treat a bacterial infection, potentially offering a new approach to antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The claim has drawn scepticism because the results have not been published in a peer-reviewed journal and the company has withheld details about the patient and treating doctor.

Market Turmoil Threatens Investment Issuers

Investment holding companies could face weaker performance amid volatile share markets and MSCI’s consultation on potentially reclassifying Indonesia as a standalone market. Saratoga Investama Sedaya’s portfolio shows mixed year-to-date returns, with TBIG and MDKA falling while ADRO and AADI have risen sharply.

Elvis Presley Song Copyright Holder Sues AI Company Anthropic

The copyright holder for songs by Elvis Presley has sued Anthropic, alleging the AI developer used the compositions without permission to train its Claude chatbot. The case was filed in a US federal court in Northern California; Anthropic had not commented by the time of publication.

Nine Companies Queue for IPOs, Including Three with Large Assets

Nine companies were in the Indonesia Stock Exchange’s IPO pipeline as of 23 October 2026, including three prospective issuers classified as having large-scale assets. Healthcare firms account for the largest share of the pipeline, while seven companies have listed so far this year, raising Rp2.16 trillion.

Are Frequent Thirst and Urination Early Signs of Diabetes? The Facts

Persistent, unexplained thirst and frequent urination can be common symptoms of diabetes, but they may also have other causes and do not by themselves confirm the condition. The article explains why these symptoms occur, lists other warning signs and urges medical assessment when symptoms persist or are accompanied by serious signs of diabetic ketoacidosis.

What to Consider When Designing New Buildings in Heritage Areas

An Indonesian architecture expert says new buildings in heritage areas should respect local historical and architectural character without simply imitating existing styles. She highlights design factors from scale and massing to materials and visual dominance, and says development must comply with heritage-preservation rules, including the 2010 Cultural Heritage Law.

Nine foods to include when trying to conceive, from eggs to leafy greens

A varied, balanced diet can help couples prepare for pregnancy by providing nutrients such as folate, protein and iron, but no individual food is proven to guarantee conception. Women planning a pregnancy are advised to take 400 micrograms of folic acid daily, alongside healthy lifestyle habits and medical advice when needed.

Furore Over Alleged Meeting at Singapore Ambassador’s Residence: Embassy and Dino Patti Djalal Deny It

Singapore’s embassy in Jakarta and former deputy foreign minister Dino Patti Djalal have denied social media claims that Dino and Professor Saiful Mujani visited the Singapore ambassador’s residence on 18 October 2026. Dino said he was in Perth at the time and suggested the post may have been intended to damage his reputation following remarks he made about Indonesia-Singapore relations.

A Busy Week Ahead: Seven Central Banks to Announce Rates as China Holds Key Meeting

Global markets enter a packed week after US stocks fell and Treasury and Indonesian government bond yields rose, amid concerns over AI-related borrowing and escalating US-Iran tensions pushing oil above US$100 a barrel. Investors will focus on policy decisions from seven central banks, China’s Communist Party plenum, and major US and European economic releases, all of which could influence currencies, bonds and risk appetite, including in Indonesia.

MSCI Plans to Downgrade Indonesia’s Market Status; Dasco Says ‘We’ll Set Our Own Rating’

DPR Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad said Indonesia’s capital market had strong fundamentals and could determine its own direction, responding to MSCI’s proposal to reclassify the country from Emerging Market to Standalone Market. MSCI is consulting market participants over concerns including investability, ownership transparency and alleged coordinated trading, with a final decision due by 30 June 2027.

New Development in BYD Incident That Ran Over Ride-Hailing Driver in South Jakarta: Driver Named as Suspect

Police have named the driver of a BYD electric car as a suspect after it struck several vehicles in South Jakarta, injuring a ride-hailing motorcyclist. Investigators are still examining the case, while the injured man has undergone surgery and remains under observation at Fatmawati Hospital.

Houthi-Saudi Arabia War Continues

Fighting between Houthi forces and Saudi Arabia has intensified, with air strikes in Yemen reportedly killing 16 people and Houthi attacks targeting Aden. The Houthis also warned that Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport remains a military target, as Saudi-led forces reported intercepting missiles aimed at Saudi cities.

Student Movement Wins as Vucic Admits Defeat

Former Serbian president Aleksandar Vucic has conceded defeat in a historic election, ending more than a decade of political dominance as a student-led movement takes a parliamentary majority. The result follows nearly two years of protests sparked by a deadly railway station collapse and focused on alleged corruption and increasingly authoritarian rule; the new movement’s policies and choice of prime minister remain unclear.

Air and Sea in Deadly Tandem: Turkish Drone Successfully Controls PİRANA Kamikaze Boat

Türkiye has demonstrated the integration of aerial and maritime unmanned systems, with a Bayraktar TB2 controlling a PİRANA kamikaze boat during a military exercise in the Mediterranean. The boat, carrying a 100-kilogram warhead, struck a surface target in a test that highlights Türkiye’s expanding cross-domain defence capabilities, although details of the control process have not been disclosed.

Steel Poles Fall from Lorry, Crumpling Car in South Tangerang

Steel poles fell from a lorry in Ciputat Timur, South Tangerang, striking an oncoming Suzuki Ertiga and badly damaging its front. No one was injured, and after a temporary traffic diversion the road was reopened while the remaining poles were being cleared.

Obama Takes Aim at Trump over Iran: Seven Months On, What Is the State of the War?

Barack Obama criticised Donald Trump’s handling of the war with Iran, arguing that diplomacy had previously contained Tehran’s nuclear programme without military action. He cited the 2015 JCPOA, from which Trump withdrew in 2018, as evidence that the conflict’s original justification could have been addressed through an agreement.

Agriculture Ministry Targets Rice Farming Insurance Cover for 100,000 Hectares in 2026

The Agriculture Ministry aims to facilitate rice farming insurance (AUTP) for 100,000 hectares in 2026 to help farmers cope with climate change and extreme weather. The minister said the insurance must be supported by reliable enrolment and claims processes, alongside irrigation, seed provision, technology and agricultural assistance; the article also notes recent rice shipments to Malaysia and Saudi Arabia, with domestic supply safeguards emphasised.

Warning: Operation Patuh 2026 Begins Nationwide Today — The Offences Police Are Targeting

Indonesia’s National Police have launched Operation Patuh 2026, running from 26 October to 8 November, with a particular focus on motorists driving against the flow of traffic. The campaign will combine public education, electronic enforcement and warnings, while measuring success by improved road-user behaviour rather than the number of fines issued.

Legislator Praises National Police Chief for Busting Two Major Drug Cases in North Sumatra and Aceh

Democratic Party and PAN lawmakers have praised National Police Chief Suyudi Ario Seto after authorities made two major drug seizures in North Sumatra and Aceh. The operations seized 1.16 tonnes of ketamine hydrochloride and 1.2 tonnes of liquid and crystal methamphetamine, and exposed networks suspected of having international links.

The Hypocrisy of Singapore and Malaysia over Forest and Land Fires in Indonesia

The opinion piece argues that Malaysia and Singapore are quick to criticise Indonesia over forest fires while benefiting from the palm oil industry through corporate investment, financial services and trade. Drawing on academic research, it describes cross-border business and political networks that can shield companies from accountability, while Indonesian communities and the environment bear much of the harm. It concludes that responsibility for fires cannot fairly be placed solely on the Indonesian government or President Prabowo, particularly given the long history of plantation concessions.

Five Facts About the Revocation of Kristalin Ekalestari’s Mining Permit and the Review of Mining Assets Worth Rp5,400 Trillion

Indonesia’s Investment Ministry/BKPM has revoked PT Kristalin Ekalestari’s production-operation mining permit in Central Papua after it was found to have mined in a forest area without the required approval. Separately, the government plans to evaluate five mining concessions whose reserves President Prabowo Subianto has said could be worth US$300 billion (Rp5,400 trillion).

Cheap Energy Is Not Enough: Indonesia Needs Productive Energy

The article argues that affordable energy alone cannot make Indonesia’s economy competitive; reliability, infrastructure, technology and skilled workers are also needed to turn energy into productivity and higher value. It calls for energy policy to be integrated with industrial development, investment, research and workforce planning, and for success to be measured by the capabilities and domestic value created—not just capacity and prices.

More Advanced Than the US Patriot? Türkiye Successfully Tests SİPER Missile Capable of Switching Targets Mid-Flight

Türkiye says its SİPER Ürün-2 long-range air-defence missile has successfully switched to a new target after launch, a capability demonstrated for the first time in a test. The trial also tested engagement of a low-flying target and forms part of Ankara’s effort to develop an integrated national air-defence system, though the published information does not establish the missile’s autonomy or its effectiveness in combat.

Singapore’s Full Response, from Minister to Prime Minister, to Indonesia’s Gas Supply Cuts

Singapore says Indonesia’s short-term reduction in gas exports—less than 2% of the city-state’s daily needs—should have little effect on electricity prices, while it draws on supply safeguards and diversified sources. Senior officials also stressed contractual obligations, as Singapore monitors the situation amid questions about the timing of the cuts and regional haze-related remarks.

KPK Deputy Chairman Proposes State Confiscation of Officials’ Assets Not Declared in Wealth Reports

KPK Deputy Chairman Johanis Tanak has proposed that the Asset Confiscation Bill allow the state to seize public officials’ assets that exceed their declared wealth or are not reported in mandatory LHKPN filings. He says the measure would strengthen reporting compliance, while also arguing that the bill should retain the term “asset confiscation” and provide a mechanism for officials to challenge seizures.

Maluku Governor Urges APINDO to Expand Investment and Job Creation

Maluku Governor Hendrik Lewerissa has urged the Indonesian Employers Association (APINDO) to boost investment and employment, particularly in the province’s maritime, fisheries, agriculture and tourism sectors. APINDO national chair Shinta W. Kamdani said Maluku’s 4.56 per cent economic growth could be raised through downstream processing, skills development and closer cooperation between government, businesses and workers.

Israeli Media Report Military Defiance as IDF Chief Rejects Netanyahu’s Order to Attack Iran

Channel 12 reports that IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir refused Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s instruction to launch an immediate attack on Iran, insisting on in-depth discussion and signed political authorisation. The report alleges Zamir feared Netanyahu was using the Iran issue for political momentum ahead of Israel’s election, although some Israeli officials have dismissed the account as a “lie”.

Mount Lokon on Alert, with Risks of Toxic Gas and Sudden Eruptions

Mount Lokon in North Sulawesi remains at Level II (Alert), with monitoring recording frequent shallow volcanic earthquakes but no evidence of an overall rise in volcanic activity. Authorities warn of toxic gas, sudden phreatic eruptions and lahars, and have urged the public to stay at least 1.5 kilometres from Tompaluan Crater.

Rain Pours on Banjarbaru, South Kalimantan, After Prolonged Dry Spell, Toppling Trees

Rain accompanied by strong winds hit Banjarbaru and other parts of South Kalimantan after a prolonged dry spell, prompting hopes that it will help extinguish forest and land fires and disperse the haze. The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) warned that heavy rain, lightning and strong winds could continue into Sunday evening, with risks including fallen trees and collapsed buildings.

Prameks Jogja–Kutoarjo Timetable for This Week, 26 October–1 November 2026

The Prameks commuter train between Yogyakarta and Kutoarjo will run five services in each direction during the week of 26 October to 1 November 2026. Fares are Rp 8,000 per journey, with passengers able to book through Access by KAI or use contactless payment methods at station gates; direct-arrival passengers are advised to come early because capacity is limited.

The JCI Shock and Unit-linked Risks

The Jakarta Composite Index plunged 11.57% after MSCI announced a consultation on downgrading Indonesia’s market classification, and has since fallen about 44% from its late-January close. The market turmoil also threatens life insurers and unit-linked policyholders, with the Financial Services Authority saying stress tests show life insurers are more exposed and some firms’ capital adequacy ratios may fall below the 120% threshold.

Jogja-Solo KRL Timetable for 26 October–1 November 2026: Full Morning-to-Night Schedule

The Jogja-Solo commuter rail service runs 15 journeys a day, connecting Yogyakarta with Palur via 12 intermediate stations; one service does not run on weekends or national holidays. The article lists departure times at every station and notes that the fare is Rp 8,000, with the journey taking about an hour.

Klungkung Mobile Driving Licence Service Schedule for Monday, 26 October 2026: Locations and Fees

Klungkung’s mobile driving licence service will operate from two locations on Monday, 26 October 2026, from 9am until service ends. It handles renewals of valid SIM A and SIM C licences only; the article also lists the applicable fees and documents applicants must bring.

Explosion at Belitung Scrap Yard Leaves One Person Seriously Injured

An explosion at a scrap-metal collection site in Tanjungpandan, Belitung, left one scrap collector seriously injured. Police have deployed a bomb-disposal unit to secure and examine the scene, while the cause remains unconfirmed; investigators suspect an item among the scrap may have detonated during weighing or cutting.

From Nationalism to Governance and Capital Market Reform in Indonesia

President Prabowo Subianto’s defiant stance towards MSCI has shifted attention to whether Indonesia can address the index provider’s concerns over ownership transparency and coordinated trading. Recent OJK sanctions and announced disclosure reforms offer an opportunity to strengthen market integrity, but their success will depend on consistent enforcement, measurable results and demonstrable protection for minority investors.

Megawati Says Many People Are Intelligent but Lack Steadfastness

Megawati Soekarnoputri urged young people to pair intellectual ability with strong character, courage and integrity grounded in Pancasila. Speaking at a PDIP festival marking Youth Pledge Day, she called on them to stand up for truth and vulnerable communities while ensuring technological progress is guided by ethical responsibility.

Car Crashes into Semi-trailer on Lampung Toll Road, Killing Six

An Avanza carrying members of one family crashed into a semi-trailer on the Terpeka section of the Lampung toll road, killing six people and seriously injuring three. Police said all victims were taken to hospital; one of those killed or injured was a member of the Tulang Bawang Police.

Arjuno-Welirang Forest Fires Extinguished as Police Investigate Cause

The forest and land fires in the Mount Arjuno-Welirang area were extinguished by 25 October, with rain helping to put out embers in terrain inaccessible to ground crews. Police are gathering evidence and statements to determine the cause of the fires, which began in mid-October and affected four administrative areas.

DIY Has Gone Five Months Without Rain

Yogyakarta Special Region has recorded 161 consecutive days without rain as of early October 2026, the longest dry spell in Indonesia this year. BMKG expects the 2026/2027 rainy season to begin around 30 days later than normal, with very strong El Niño conditions likely to persist into early 2027; it has also warned of possible localised heavy rain, strong winds and lightning.

Kristalin’s Mining Licence in Nabire Revoked; Rosan Says It Ensures Legal Certainty

Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani said the revocation of PT Kristalin Ekalestari’s production-operation mining licence reflects legal certainty and safeguards national natural-resource governance. The decision followed recommendations from the Forest Area Enforcement Task Force and a request from the Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry, after field checks found the company had opened mines in forest areas without the required approval.

Flights at Riyadh Airport Resume After Houthi Attack

Flights have resumed at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh after operations were suspended following Houthi attacks, though only a small number of aircraft have taken off and many services remain cancelled. The attacks reportedly killed 13 people and injured more than 300, while Saudi-led forces said they intercepted at least 10 ballistic missiles as warnings of further strikes were activated in the south.

Hundreds of Professors and Doctors Discuss the Mashhad Razavi Manuscript in Jakarta

Around 160 academics from approximately 70 public and private Islamic universities attended a hybrid international seminar in Jakarta on early Islamic Qur’anic manuscripts. The event examined how the Mashhad Razavi manuscript can illuminate the history of Qur’anic writing, recitation traditions and the development of the codex in early Islam.

Continued Investment in PT CNI’s Nickel Project Seen as Vital to Boosting the National Economy

Ten local and customary organisations in Wolo, Southeast Sulawesi, have voiced support for the continuation of PT Ceria Nugraha Indotama’s nickel investment, citing its contribution to jobs, small businesses and the local economy. They urged the government to weigh these community impacts alongside legal certainty and corporate responsibility, and called for dialogue among the company, residents and other stakeholders.

Downstreaming Investment’s Contribution Rises as Government Focuses on Quality

Investment in downstream industries accounted for 35% of Indonesia’s total realised investment in the third quarter of 2026, up from about 26% in 2024, Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani said. The government says it will prioritise projects that create jobs and transfer technology, while streamlining permits and improving regulatory certainty to support sustainable growth.

OJK Central Sulawesi expands public access to finance through 2026 Financial Inclusion Month

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) in Central Sulawesi has used its 2026 Financial Inclusion Month programme to widen access to financial products and services, promote saving among students and strengthen consumer protection. The province recorded financial literacy and inclusion indices of 60.07% and 88.65%, respectively, while activities including an MSME summit sought to connect small businesses with financing.

Police Arrest Three Suspected Drug Dealers in West Jakarta, Seize 4.38g of Crystal Meth

Police in West Jakarta have arrested three people suspected of involvement in drug dealing and seized 4.38g of crystal meth, along with items including scales and packaging materials. Investigators say one suspect identified two alleged suppliers who are now on the wanted list, and the three detainees tested positive for methamphetamine and amphetamine.

On Following Up the Constitutional Court Ruling on Gibran’s Diploma, PDI-P Opens Dialogue with Other Parliamentary Factions: ‘There Is a Criminal Element’

PDI-P secretary-general Hasto Kristiyanto says the party is open to discussing with other parliamentary factions how to follow up the Constitutional Court’s 2023 ruling concerning Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s candidacy. He alleges that the ruling exposed abuse of power and raises questions over eligibility requirements, KPU regulations and public officials’ ethical standards, while warning that the controversy could undermine the government’s legitimacy.

KPK Deputy Proposes Seizing Officials’ Assets Not Declared in Wealth Reports

KPK Deputy Chairman Johanis Tanak has proposed allowing the state to seize public officials’ assets that are omitted from, or exceed what is declared in, their LHKPN wealth reports. He argues that the proposed asset-forfeiture bill should include a process for officials to challenge seizures and retain its current terminology, which he says is consistent with existing anti-corruption law.

Bill Gates Warns AI Could Transform Workers’ Prospects Worldwide Over the Next 20 Years

Bill Gates says the transition to an AI-driven era of abundance could be deeply disruptive, with office roles and physical jobs increasingly exposed to automation. He warns that the shift may create winners and losers, while stressing that work provides purpose and social connection as well as income.

Megawati to Young People: Master Science and Technology, but Strengthen Your Moral Character Too

Former president Megawati Soekarnoputri urged young Indonesians to develop expertise in science and technology alongside integrity, moral character and commitment to Pancasila. Speaking at Merah Muda Fest 2026, she also called on them to speak out against injustice and drew lessons from the unity shown by youth leaders at the 1928 Youth Congress.

Severe Haze from Forest and Land Fires Persists as Palu Extends Online Schooling

Palu has extended remote learning for students in early childhood, primary and junior secondary schools because smoke from forest and land fires has pushed air quality into the unhealthy range. The city says the measure will remain in force until further notice, while schools are expected to maintain effective learning and provide alternatives for pupils with limited internet access.

Indonesia Cuts Gas Exports, but Singapore Says Electricity Prices Will Not Rise

Singapore’s Energy and Industry Minister Tan See Leng expects Indonesia’s reduction in natural gas exports to have little immediate effect on electricity prices, as the affected volume is less than 2 per cent of Singapore’s total gas demand. Singapore says it can draw on alternative supplies, including LNG, while warning that global gas-price movements remain a bigger concern.

100 East Kalimantan Police Personnel Deployed to Four Fire-Prone Areas, with West Kutai at Greatest Risk

East Kalimantan Police have deployed 100 personnel for two weeks to support efforts against forest and land fires in four districts, with West Kutai identified as the area at greatest risk. The operation combines firefighting support with law enforcement against parties, including companies, found to have deliberately breached land-clearing rules.

Gibran Volunteer Takes Aim at PDIP over 2024 Election Loss; Deddy Sitorus Calls Them ‘Power Parasites Blind to Reason’

A Gibran volunteer leader accused the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) of resenting Gibran and Joko Widodo over its defeat in the 2024 presidential election. PDIP politician Deddy Sitorus dismissed the charge, saying the party had moved on and attacking the volunteer leader as a sycophant serving those in power.

Major Shake-up: 475 Riau Islands Police Personnel Reassigned; See the List of Officials

The Riau Islands Regional Police have reassigned 475 personnel across the provincial force and its local police units, including officers in strategic investigative and command posts. The force says the transfers are intended to refresh the organisation, develop careers and improve police performance and public services.

Hasto Says PDI-P Supports Military Courts Law Revision, Citing Equality Before the Law

PDI-P Secretary-General Hasto Kristiyanto has backed the Constitutional Court’s decision requiring changes to the Military Courts Law, saying all state officials should be subject to equal legal standards. The Court has given lawmakers two years to amend the 1997 law, with Hasto emphasising that military and police personnel serving in civilian posts should face civilian justice for legal violations.

UGM Student Union Writes to ASEAN Secretary-General, Urging Review of Indonesia’s Compliance over Haze from Forest and Land Fires

The UGM Student Union has asked ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn to commission an independent, transparent assessment of Indonesia’s compliance with the regional haze-pollution agreement. It says fires in parts of Kalimantan have persisted for about four months, harming public health, children’s access to education and residents’ right to clean air, while potentially affecting neighbouring countries.

Run a Small Business? Here Are Five Ways to Make Your MSME Better Known and More Appealing to Consumers

Indonesian micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) are advised to understand consumer needs, maintain quality and innovate, and make better use of digital marketing. These steps can help small businesses reach more customers, compete effectively and build sustainable operations.

BPJS Kesehatan Faces Deficit; UGM Academic Urges Revision of SJSN and BPJS Laws: ‘An Old Illness’

UGM health policy academic Laksono Trisnantoro says BPJS Kesehatan’s recurring funding shortfall is a structural problem that requires changes to the laws governing Indonesia’s national health insurance system. He argues that the government’s Rp20 trillion emergency allocation for 2026 is a warning that short-term budget support cannot ensure JKN’s long-term financial sustainability or protect service quality.

100 Artists Showcase Their Work at Nandur Srawung in Yogyakarta Cultural Park

Yogyakarta Cultural Park is hosting the 13th Nandur Srawung visual arts exhibition from 21 to 28 October 2026, featuring 100 artists selected from 264 open-call applicants. Under the theme “Academy: Landscape”, the exhibition forms the first part of a three-year curatorial platform intended to develop young Indonesian artists’ practices, knowledge and networks.

113 Homes Flooded in Cibinong After Kali Sugu Tamu Embankment Breaches

A breach in the Kali Sugu Tamu embankment flooded 113 homes in Pabuaran Mekar, Cibinong, affecting an estimated 205 people after heavy rain. Floodwater also temporarily blocked the Bogor–Depok alternative route, but both residential areas and the road were reported to be receding or passable again by the evening.

Debt Collectors Cause Alarm in Malioboro, Seize Tourist’s Car Despite Cash Purchase from Dealer

A Bandung tourist said a group claiming to be debt collectors tried to take her car while she was visiting Malioboro, despite her having bought the second-hand vehicle in cash from a dealer. Police took both parties to Yogyakarta Police and checked the vehicle’s registration and identifying numbers with Samsat.

Daya Bumi Advisory Expands Digital Investment Education on Campus

Daya Bumi Advisory and SRE Indonesia held a digital economy investment discussion at Telkom University, attracting 150 students to explore industry prospects, investment choices and risks. The event also launched an equity research competition intended to build students’ skills in analysing companies and preparing for long-term investment decisions.

Minimum Free Float Requirement Prompts Some Listed Companies to Go Private

Indonesia’s plan to raise the minimum public shareholding requirement to 15% has left hundreds of listed companies facing compliance deadlines, while several firms have opted to go private. Market observers argue that a uniform threshold may not improve liquidity and could prompt further delistings, recommending a 10% floor and stronger scrutiny of genuinely independent public ownership.

UPNVY Campus Affected by Yogyakarta–Solo Toll Road, Entrance Access to Change

The Yogyakarta Veteran National Development University (UPNVY) says about 3,016 square metres of its land, including part of its front boundary and security posts, will be affected by the Yogyakarta–Solo toll road project. The campus is preparing to relocate its entrance and exit gates, while project schedules and the sequencing of several toll-road sections remain subject to change.

DIY Fishers Receive Fish Fingerlings, Insurance and Safety Equipment

The Fisheries Ministry and House of Representatives Commission IV have distributed fish-farming inputs, insurance, safety gear and processing equipment to fishing and coastal communities in Bantul. The initiative forms part of efforts to strengthen livelihoods and develop the Poncosari Red-and-White Fishing Village as a coastal economic hub, with the ministry targeting 1,369 such sites nationwide by early 2027.

National Economic Council Proposes Revising Corruption Law to Clarify Investment Risks

Indonesia’s National Economic Council (DEN) has proposed changes to the Corruption Eradication Law that would refine how corruption offences are proved, while retaining state-loss provisions and criminal accountability. Pension-fund representatives say clearer rules could help distinguish ordinary investment losses from corruption, but an insurance analyst warns that any perceived weakening of safeguards for state assets could undermine foreign investor confidence; investment decisions will remain subject to fund strategies and financial regulations.

Daya Bumi Advisory expands investment literacy among young people

Daya Bumi Advisory and SRE Indonesia held a campus programme at Telkom University to help students understand investment opportunities and risks in the digital economy, with input from academics and capital-market professionals. The initiative also introduced an equity research competition, extending the effort to build young people’s capacity to assess companies and make informed long-term investment decisions.

LPS: 161 Banks Liquidated, Including Three Rural Banks in Yogyakarta, Due to Fraud and Competition

Indonesia’s Deposit Insurance Corporation (LPS) says 161 banks had been liquidated nationwide by September 2026, including three rural banks in the Special Region of Yogyakarta. The latest Yogyakarta closure was attributed to inability to compete rather than fraud; across the three cases, eligible deposits totalled Rp59.01 billion, while Rp58.51 billion in guarantee claims had been paid.

Kendal SEZ Attracts Fresh Foreign Investment as Chinese Garment Maker Invests Rp203bn

China’s PT Landstar Garment Indonesia has opened its first Indonesian factory in the Kendal Special Economic Zone, with investment planned to reach Rp203 billion by 2028. The factory will focus overwhelmingly on exports to Japan, with production capacity and local employment expected to expand, adding to the zone’s Rp202.06 trillion in investment commitments.

Habiburokhman Praises Police Chief’s All-Out Crackdown on Drugs in North Sumatra and Aceh

DPR Commission III chairman Habiburokhman praised Police Chief Suyudi Ario Seto for personally leading aggressive operations against drug networks, urging police to sustain the effort and pursue major traffickers. Recent operations included the seizure of 1.16 tonnes of ketamine off North Sumatra and the discovery of a large clandestine drug laboratory in Pidie, Aceh.

Indonesian Consulate in Melbourne Connects Indonesian and Australian Businesses at Forum

The Indonesian Consulate-General in Melbourne has held business-matching meetings and is organising a forum on cybersecurity and digital trust as part of Festival Indonesia 2026. The events aim to strengthen commercial links, while bilateral trade has nearly tripled to A$33 billion in five years under the IA-CEPA and investment has grown by 8.4 per cent.

Walking on the Tracks: Person with Mental Illness Causes Concern for Residents and KAI

A person with a mental health condition entered an active railway track at Maguwo Station in Sleman, prompting KAI security staff and police to intervene. The person was safely removed and referred to a psychiatric hospital for further care, while the incident highlighted the dangers posed by entering operational railway areas.

Batu Bolong in Komodo National Park: A Diving Paradise of Coral Reefs and Sharks

Batu Bolong, in Komodo National Park, is a world-class dive site known for pristine coral gardens and abundant marine life, including reef sharks, turtles and manta rays. Strong currents make it suitable mainly for experienced divers, who are advised to dive at slack tide and follow their guides’ safety instructions.

World Travel Awards 2026: Bali Among Asia’s Leading Wedding Destinations

Bali has been named Asia’s Leading Wedding Destination at the World Travel Awards 2026, beating nominees including Cebu, Ko Samui and Langkawi. The recognition extends Bali’s record to seven wins since 2019, reinforcing the island’s appeal to wedding and tourism markets; the article also lists recommended venues across Bali.

A Portrait of the Bajo Sangkuang Settlement in South Halmahera

The Bajo Sangkuang settlement in South Halmahera is home to around 1,750 members of the Bajo community, whose daily lives and livelihoods are closely tied to the sea. Fishing is both an important source of income and an integral part of the community’s everyday life.

Ministry praises Bank Sumut for supporting post-disaster business recovery

The Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises has praised Bank Sumut for helping businesses recover from disasters in North Sumatra, where 607 entrepreneurs from eight localities took part in a business-capacity programme. The bank says its People’s Business Credit (KUR) scheme, with interest subsidies of up to 100 per cent, is intended to widen access to affordable financing and support businesses beyond the recovery phase.

Nearly 265,000 Foreign Nationals Used Trains in Yogyakarta Rail Division by September 2026

KAI’s Yogyakarta operational division recorded 264,335 foreign-national rail passengers from January to September 2026, up 7.8% year on year. Yogyakarta Station accounted for the largest share of both departures and arrivals, reflecting the railway’s role in connecting international visitors with destinations across Yogyakarta, Solo and surrounding areas.

DPR Commission III urges National Police chief to keep up the ‘full-throttle’ fight against drugs

DPR Commission III chairman Habiburokhman has urged National Police chief Suyudi Ario Seto to maintain an aggressive campaign against drugs and dismantle trafficking networks from top to bottom. He praised recent raids on drug factories and distribution sites, saying they demonstrate the state’s resolve and should galvanise police forces across the country.

Indonesia accelerates paddy field development in Merauke to boost productivity

Deputy Agriculture Minister Muhammad Saleh Mustafa has called for an integrated approach to developing paddy fields in Merauke, with support for infrastructure, production inputs and farmer groups. South Papua’s programme targets 45,993 hectares across 2025 and 2026, as the government seeks to raise productivity, advance food self-sufficiency and improve farmers’ incomes through better market access and cooperatives.

ESDM: Shallow volcanic earthquakes dominate activity at Mount Lokon

Indonesia’s Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry says shallow volcanic earthquakes dominated activity at Mount Lokon from 1 to 15 October 2026, while seismic and visual data showed no overall increase in volcanic activity. The volcano remains at Alert Level II, with authorities warning of possible toxic gas, sudden phreatic eruptions and lahar flows, and advising people to stay at least 1.5 kilometres from Tompaluan Crater.

Reda Says 2026 Asian Para Games Success Is in Line with Asta Cita

Indonesia’s Chef de Mission Reda Manthovani said the team’s 15 gold medals at the 2026 Asian Para Games reflected Asta Cita’s commitment to sporting achievement and the empowerment of people with disabilities. Indonesia finished eighth with 73 medals, exceeding its targets, while Reda called for longer national training camps to improve athletes’ physical preparation ahead of future competitions.

Ombudsman Finds Suspected Extortion of Exporters’ Vehicles at Motaain Border Post

Indonesia’s Ombudsman office in East Nusa Tenggara has identified suspected unofficial charges imposed on drivers transporting exports through the Motaain border post to Timor-Leste. The alleged fees total at least Rp200,000 per vehicle, potentially amounting to Rp104 million a month, and the Ombudsman says the claims require further investigation and clarification by the authorities.

Ahead of Youth Pledge Day, Young People Warned About the Onslaught of Foreign Culture

As Indonesia prepares to mark Youth Pledge Day on 28 October 2026, the founders of Sekolah Darurat Kartini have urged young people to learn the country’s history and preserve its cultural values amid growing foreign influences through technology and social media. A cultural dance competition and discussion in Bekasi brought together schoolchildren, with organisers also stressing the role of compassion, cooperation and patriotism in nurturing national unity.

Instead of Online Loans, Gen Z Urged to Borrow from Cooperatives to Grow Businesses

LPDB Koperasi official Deva Rachman urged young people to use cooperatives rather than relying on online loans, saying member-owned businesses can create jobs and expand economic opportunities. Cooperatives can pool members’ resources, develop markets and distribute surplus, with organised communities—including football supporters—offering potential for collective enterprise.

Megawati Urges Young People to Be Not Only Clever but Also Courageous and Principled

Megawati Sukarnoputri has urged young Indonesians to pair scientific and technological skills with moral responsibility, integrity and courage to defend truth and justice. Speaking at a youth event in Jakarta, she said the country’s future depends as much on young people’s character and commitment to the nation as on their knowledge.

Bantul Shops Secretly Sell Hundreds of Bottles of Alcohol

Police seized 283 bottles of alcoholic drinks and two litres of pure alcohol during raids at 10 locations across Bantul, following public reports and routine enforcement operations. The crackdown targeted suspected sellers and distributors, with the largest haul—96 bottles of ciu—found in Jetis.

Bali Governor Weighs Calls for Rp 5.2 Million Minimum Wage

Bali Governor I Wayan Koster says the provincial government is studying demands to raise the 2025 minimum wage to Rp 5.25 million, while the existing national formula would put it at about Rp 3.45 million. He is open to assessing wages against decent-living needs but says the decision must comply with regulations and account for employers’ capacity; unions warn they will continue pressing for a higher rate.

East Kalimantan Police Deploy 100 Personnel to Tackle Forest and Land Fires

East Kalimantan Police have sent 100 personnel to support efforts to contain forest and land fires across four districts for a two-week deployment. Kutai Barat and Paser have been identified as the areas most at risk, while police say the operation will combine firefighting with law enforcement against deliberate land-clearing fires.

Putin Says Europe Is Facing a Migration Crisis

Russian President Vladimir Putin said Europe is facing a migration crisis, arguing that countries have failed to integrate migrants and their children into European society. He also contrasted Europe’s situation with Russia’s multi-ethnic, multi-faith history, while calling for greater attention to inter-ethnic relations within Russia.

WCCE 2026 Promotes Global Collaboration to Strengthen the Creative Economy Ecosystem

The fifth World Conference on Creative Economy in Jakarta is seeking to turn international dialogue into practical partnerships that expand market access, investment and technology adoption for creative businesses. Indonesia is also advancing the Jakarta Vision on Creative Economy as a contribution to the sector’s place in the global development agenda beyond 2030, while a marketplace at the event showcases more than 200 local MSMEs.

Merah Muda Fest Visitors Donate to Kalimantan Forest and Land Fire Victims

Visitors to Merah Muda Fest 2026 in Jakarta were invited to donate Rp15,000 each through QRIS or barcode payments to support people affected by forest and land fires in Kalimantan. Organised by PDI Perjuangan, the festival combined fundraising with activities commemorating Youth Pledge Day and aims to pass all contributions on after the event.

SAR team evacuates injured hiker near Mount Rinjani

A joint Search and Rescue team evacuated 14-year-old Hikmah after she slipped and injured her leg while hiking at Bukit Pergasingan, near Mount Rinjani, in East Lombok. Rescuers reached her in the late afternoon, gave initial medical treatment and carried her to Sembalun Community Health Centre, where she arrived that evening; the operation was closed after she was handed over safely to her family and medical staff.

Free University Tuition Could Leave Private Universities Losing Students, UAD Warns

Universitas Ahmad Dahlan rector Muchlas MT says a proposed government free-tuition programme must include private universities, or students may gravitate disproportionately towards state institutions and intensify recruitment pressures on private campuses. He urges targeted aid based on household welfare data, alongside a clear division of roles between public and private universities.

Cultural Tourism a Strategic Step to Strengthen Indonesia’s Economy, Observer Says

Lanskap Bali says tourism rooted in local culture can strengthen community incomes while preserving traditions and the environment, and argues that development must extend beyond Bali. The proposal aligns with the Prabowo-Gibran administration’s Asta Cita agenda; official figures show rising tourist numbers and higher tourism revenue in monitored tourist villages.

Flooding and Landslides Hit South Aceh, Submerging Four Villages and Affecting National Road

Heavy rain has caused flooding in four villages across two districts in South Aceh, with water reaching adult waist height in some areas. Floodwaters have also covered a national road, while landslides blocked two points on another route; the local disaster agency has deployed crews to clear mud and is monitoring conditions as rain continues.

UGM Denies Charging Visitor Rp129,500 to Use Mats at Wisdom Park

Universitas Gadjah Mada says it did not charge a visitor Rp129,500 to use mats at Wisdom Park, despite a complaint about the tariff circulating on social media. The university says learning activities and outdoor sports are free, while specially organised events and use of certain facilities are subject to permits and applicable charges.

1,000 Tonnes of Flour Aid Arrives in the Gaza Strip

A shipment of 1,000 tonnes of flour has reached Gaza, with an equal-sized delivery expected the following day. The flour will be distributed directly to bakeries through the World Food Programme and cannot be sold on the open market, but aid constraints mean supplies still meet bakeries’ needs for only one day at a time.

Hanura Party prepares modern strategy for 2029 election

Hanura Party says it is adopting data-driven political planning, including surveys and expert consultancy, to strengthen its organisation and improve its electoral prospects in 2029. The party reports that its branch structure in West Sulawesi is nearly 98 per cent complete and is seeking to build a stronger cadre of candidates across constituencies.

Gerindra Politician Urges Public to Examine Constitutional Rules on Vice-President Gibran

Gerindra legislator Azis Subekti says President Prabowo Subianto cannot unilaterally dismiss Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, as any removal must follow the procedures set out in the 1945 Constitution. He also urges the public to read the Constitutional Court’s ruling in full, noting that it did not order Gibran’s dismissal and that impeachment remains subject to constitutional grounds and due process.

Yogyakarta Temperature Reaches 35.2°C as Residents Complain of Heat and Dizziness

Yogyakarta’s maximum temperature reached 35.2°C on 3 October, and the heat is expected to persist through the month amid the dry season and very strong El Niño conditions. The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) advised residents to limit direct sun exposure, stay hydrated and watch for signs of dehydration or heat exhaustion; the current reading remains below the local record of 36.8°C set in October 2024.

Youth protest in Barcelona turns violent; 100 demonstrators arrested

More than 100 people, including minors, were arrested after a youth demonstration in Barcelona escalated into clashes with police, vandalism and fires. Organised through social media and without an official leader or specific cause, the protest was described as echoing demonstrations taking place elsewhere in Europe.

Ubaidillah Amin: Indonesia’s Capital Market Must Be Independent and Not Rely on Foreign Ratings

Nahdlatul Ulama youth figure Ubaidillah Amin says Indonesia should build its own capacity to assess the quality and prospects of its capital market rather than rely continually on foreign rating agencies. He also called for stronger governance, transparency, investor protection, skilled professionals and coordinated policy to make the market a more resilient investment destination.

Cabinet Secretary: President Receives Update on URI Leadership Education Progress

President Prabowo Subianto met Universitas Republik Indonesia Governor Donny Ermawan Taufanto to discuss the university’s leadership education and training programmes. The update included 384 participants in the President’s Programme for Future Leaders, who are scheduled to begin internships in January and February 2027, as well as plans for a new campus building in Bogor.

Good News: Provincial Government Offers Vehicle Tax Discounts Until 19 November

Maluku’s provincial government is offering a 40% reduction on overdue vehicle tax principal for taxpayers with arrears of at least one year, alongside discounts for timely payers and a first-year exemption for vehicles transferred into the province. The relief runs until 19 November 2026 and is intended to ease residents’ tax obligations while improving regional revenue collection.

As War Costs Mount, Obama Takes Trump to Task

Barack Obama blamed Donald Trump’s war with Iran for rising oil, diesel and consumer prices, arguing that diplomacy had previously curbed Iran’s nuclear programme without military action. Trump said he was considering renewed strikes while leaving the door open to negotiations, and Iran’s army was ordered to maintain its highest combat readiness.

Identity of Human Remains Found in Bantul Pajangan Revealed as Family Recognises Dental Features

A family has identified human remains found in Guwosari, Bantul, as those of 33-year-old local resident Muhammad Rofingi, recognising distinctive features of his teeth. Police said the remains were handed over to his family after physical characteristics were matched; the remains had been discovered by a resident searching for birds.

MP praises North Sumatra Governor’s ban on civil servants using vapes

A member of the House of Representatives has praised North Sumatra Governor Bobby Afif Nasution’s prohibition on vaping by civil servants and other public-sector workers, saying it could help prevent the misuse of narcotics. The governor’s instruction, issued to local governments across the province, calls for monitoring and disciplinary sanctions; the MP has urged that it be strengthened into a regional regulation.

Japan deploys long-range missile launcher in drills with US

Japan used its Type-25 long-range anti-ship missile launcher for the first time in a joint exercise with the United States, part of the Keen Sword drills involving tens of thousands of personnel and eight participating countries. The deployment highlights Japan’s shift towards acquiring counterstrike capabilities, a policy change that has prompted concerns about the risk of miscalculation and pre-emptive action.

Mayor Oking Road in Cibinong Resembles a River as Flooding Leaves Motorcycles Stalled

Heavy rain caused flash flooding on Mayor Oking Road in Cibinong, forcing motorcyclists to push bikes that had stalled after water entered their engines. Bogor Regency’s disaster agency said blocked drainage contributed to the road flooding, while a burst embankment also inundated homes in Pabuaran Indah to a reported depth of one metre.

Jambi task force provides logistical support to firefighters tackling blazes

Jambi’s Forest and Land Fire Task Force has delivered food and medicine to firefighters battling blazes across several areas, while deploying teams, fire engines and equipment to contain the fires. Crews have extinguished some fires but face inaccessible hotspots and difficult peatland terrain, where flames can spread underground.

South Korea Reveals Plans to Open a Bali Consulate

South Korea plans to establish a consulate in Denpasar to improve services and protection for its citizens in Bali, with the ambassador stressing that security is vital to maintaining tourist confidence. Talks with Bali Governor Wayan Koster also covered potential cooperation in clean energy, transport, digital technology and AI, and waste management, as well as support for local businesses and sustainable development.

Farm-gate Chilli Prices Fall, So Why Are They Still High in Markets?

Farm-gate chilli prices have fallen over the past fortnight, but retail prices remain elevated as drought limits production and lengthy supply chains add costs. The National Food Agency says supplies are sufficient ahead of Christmas and New Year, while distribution—particularly by sea—will be key to preventing regional price spikes.

Seven Red and White Fishing Villages Planned in Yogyakarta, Fisheries Ministry Aims to Help Fishers Move Up the Value Chain

Indonesia’s Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries plans to establish seven Red and White Fishing Villages in Yogyakarta, including one already built in Bantul in 2025 and six more scheduled for 2026. The national programme aims to turn coastal areas into economic hubs through infrastructure, cooperative support and training intended to improve fish quality and fishers’ incomes.

Jumbo and Pandji’s Comedy Bring WCCE 2026 to Life

At the 2026 World Conference on Creative Economy, filmmaker Ryan Adriandhy and comedian Pandji Pragiwaksono discussed how distinctly Indonesian stories can resonate with international audiences. They also highlighted the opportunities and structural challenges facing Indonesia’s creative industries, including limited performance venues, costly rental models and the concentration of opportunities in Jakarta.

More Than 3.3 Hectares of Land and Rp5.4 Billion in Cash: Assets Seized and Frozen by Bareskrim in the FH Case File

Indonesian police have seized and frozen 110 land and building assets, as well as nearly Rp5.4 billion in cash, in the case involving PT Dana Syariah Indonesia, aiming to recover victims’ losses. The seizure includes assets held by affiliated parties and companies; meanwhile, 5,102 victims have claimed restitution totalling about Rp1.07 trillion.

Police Raid Manado Drug Den, Arrest Four and Seize 111 Methamphetamine Packages

North Sulawesi police arrested four people during a raid on suspected drug-trafficking locations in Manado, seizing 111 packages of methamphetamine weighing 51 grams. The operation involved 20 officers, and investigators say they will develop the case further.

Yogyakarta Vocational School Aid Funds Embezzled of Rp125 Million Using Fake Activities

Bantul police have named a 44-year-old man as a suspect in the alleged corruption of Rp125 million in government aid for a vocational school programme in 2023. Investigators say fictitious activities were listed in progress reports to secure the second instalment, while an audit found the full amount disbursed had become a state loss.

Salary Gone Too Quickly? How to Manage Your Money and Avoid Running Short at Month-End

Digital payments, online shopping promotions and buy-now-pay-later services can make spending difficult to track, leaving even young workers on modest or higher salaries short of cash. The 50-30-20 budgeting rule offers a framework for dividing income among essentials, lifestyle spending and savings or investments, with practical steps for controlling each category.

KJRI Melbourne Holds Festival to Showcase Indonesian Culture and MSMEs

The Indonesian Consulate General in Melbourne drew more than 6,000 visitors to its annual festival, featuring performances, regional cuisine and products from Indonesian micro, small and medium-sized enterprises. Now in its 13th year, the event also promoted consular support and domestic-violence awareness, while officials highlighted the opportunity to encourage Australian tourists to explore destinations beyond Bali.

Moestar Urges Indonesians to Strengthen Dialogue and Democratic Maturity

Moestar Putra Jaya, chair of the Jayabaya University Foundation, says Indonesia should learn from protests in Europe by addressing public grievances early through responsive policies and open communication. He argues that peaceful protest and criticism are democratic rights, while government and public figures must help prevent tensions escalating into violence that harms communities and economic activity.

Police Arrest Three Suspected Drug Offenders in West Jakarta’s Tambora

Police in West Jakarta have arrested three people suspected of involvement in narcotics offences, seizing 4.38 grams of suspected methamphetamine and items allegedly linked to drug distribution. Investigators say two other suspects are being sought and are tracing the source of the drugs, which were allegedly obtained in a quantity of about 30 grams.

Yogyakarta Palace Siren Sounds Unexpectedly: What Was the Warning?

A siren mounted above Plengkung Nirbaya, also known as Plengkung Gading, at the Yogyakarta Palace sounded for about five minutes on Saturday night, alarming nearby residents. Police said no emergency was found and an initial assessment suggested an electrical fault, possibly a short circuit, although the cause has not been confirmed.

Indonesia’s digital shift: From connectivity to growth and protection

Indonesia’s digital transformation has expanded internet access and supported a growing digital economy, with the government targeting faster broadband, wider investment and stronger technology talent. As it enters its third year, the administration is prioritising AI governance, personal data protection and child safety online, while seeking to ensure connectivity generates inclusive growth and public trust.

Festival Negeri Kami Brings Together 38 Provinces on One Stage at TMII

Festival Negeri Kami 2026 has opened at Taman Mini Indonesia Indah, bringing representatives from all 38 Indonesian provinces together to showcase their regional arts and traditions. The Culture Ministry said the event can educate the public about Indonesia’s diversity, while also highlighting culture as an economic asset and supporting the preservation and development of cultural heritage.

Danantara’s Three Strategic Priority Sectors for 2027

Danantara plans to prioritise critical minerals, downstream processing and digital infrastructure—including data centres and artificial intelligence—in its investment strategy for 2027. It is also exploring projects in food security, low- and zero-carbon energy, and education, while the fund’s chief investment officer says it has begun buying Indonesian shares, particularly those of state-owned companies.

Not Just Jakarta: The Cities with the Highest Cost of Living

KHL figures compiled by the Manpower Ministry, the National Economic Council and Statistics Indonesia show that Jakarta has the country’s highest decent-living-cost estimate, at nearly Rp5.9 million a month. The data also highlights high costs in resource-rich, island and remote regions, and KHL figures are used as one consideration in setting minimum-wage increases.

Tracing the Youth Pledge: Keeping the Spirit of Unity Alive Among Young People

A heritage walk at Merah Muda Fest 2026 in Jakarta marked the 98th Youth Pledge Day and looked ahead to the pledge’s centenary in 2028. The event encouraged young people to sustain national unity through creativity, collaboration and concern for others.

Kapuk Youth Organisation Marks Youth Pledge Day

The Karang Taruna youth organisation in RW 007, Kapuk, West Jakarta, held a Youth Pledge Day event promoting youth participation, Indonesian arts and culture, and environmental awareness. Local officials praised the initiative as a model for other neighbourhoods and urged continued opportunities for young people to develop their creativity and contribute to their communities.

Police seize 75 grammes of methamphetamine from alleged dealer in West Jakarta’s Cengkareng

Police in Cengkareng have arrested a man suspected of dealing drugs and seized 75.78 grammes of suspected methamphetamine. Officers also confiscated packaging, a digital scale, a mobile phone and a motorbike; the suspect faces charges under Indonesia’s Narcotics Law and a 2026 criminal penalties adjustment law.

Bicara Udara Urges Runners to Highlight Pollution Risks and the Right to Clean Air

Bicara Udara used the Jakarta Running Festival 2026 to encourage runners to check air-quality information and promote clean air as a public-health concern and a right. The organisation launched an educational guide and introduced mobile monitoring in Jakarta, while also drawing attention to the unequal effects of pollution and the impact of forest and land fires in Kalimantan and Sumatra.

JCI Surges 4.9% in a Week as Indonesia’s Capital Market Shows Resilience Amid Pressure

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) rose 4.9% in the week to 23 October, despite continued foreign net selling that brought the year-to-date total to Rp94.87 trillion. OJK chief Friderica Widyasari Dewi attributed the rebound to domestic buybacks and retail investors, while pointing to listed companies’ earnings, market disclosure rules and enforcement efforts as supports for confidence amid MSCI scrutiny.

MITTE Bintaro Officially Opens, with 90% of Staff from South Tangerang

The newly opened MITTE Bintaro culinary destination says about 90% of its employees are residents of South Tangerang, a commitment welcomed by the city’s mayor as a boost to local jobs and economic activity. Officials also said the venue could support small businesses, creative industries and regional revenue, while its integrated food and communal-space concept reflects intensifying competition in the local culinary sector.

Danantara Targets US$30 Billion in Investment at Asia Forum

BPI Danantara aims to mobilise US$30 billion in investment through DTIIF 2026 and The New Asia Forum, scheduled for 3–4 December in Bali. The target is not a binding commitment, and its delivery will depend on whether investor interest becomes project-level financing amid currency, cost and governance risks.

Motorcycle Wrecked as Man from Magelang Dies after Hitting Power Pole in Badung

A 33-year-old man from Magelang, Central Java, died after his motorcycle struck a roadside electricity pole in Badung early on Sunday. Police said he was travelling at high speed and classified the incident as a single-vehicle crash; his body was taken to Prof Ngoerah General Hospital in Denpasar.

Putin Denies Russia Is Behind Wave of Demonstrations Across Europe

Vladimir Putin has rejected claims that Moscow provoked protests in several European countries, attributing the unrest instead to domestic political failures, including economic and financial policy mistakes. Protests have taken place in France, Italy, Albania, Belgium and Spain, over issues ranging from living costs to demands for political change.

Danantara Chief Warns Investors Against Buying Shares Solely Because Prices Have Fallen

Danantara CIO Pandu Sjahrir has urged investors to assess companies’ fundamentals rather than treating falling share prices as an automatic buying opportunity, amid concerns over MSCI’s proposed reclassification of Indonesia’s equity market. He highlighted profitability, growth, cash flow, debt and governance, while noting that some large companies—particularly in banking and consumer sectors—combine strong returns on equity with low price-to-earnings ratios.

Police Secure Scrap Metal Yard Blast Site in Belitung

Bomb-disposal officers have secured the site of an explosion at a scrap metal collection yard in Belitung, where one person was seriously injured. Police suspect an item of scrap metal may have detonated while being weighed or cut, but are awaiting a full examination and warn collectors to report suspicious objects.

BPK Finds Four Loss-Making Airports Managed by PT Angkasa Pura Indonesia

Indonesia’s Audit Board (BPK) says four airports operated by PT Angkasa Pura Indonesia have recorded negative financial performance, while the company remains liable for fixed contributions of Rp171.10 billion and investment commitments totalling Rp3.62 trillion. BPK attributes the risks partly to unrealistic passenger-traffic projections and warns that the obligations could strain the company’s liquidity and financial performance.

Megawati Urges Young People to Master Science and Technology and Strengthen National Character

Former president Megawati Soekarnoputri has urged Indonesia’s younger generation to develop scientific and technological expertise while upholding integrity, courage and Pancasila values. Speaking at Merah Muda Fest 2026, she invoked the Youth Pledge’s history and called on young people to turn patriotic celebrations into concrete action.

Gold Prices Could Fall to Rp 2.39 Million per Gram Next Week, Forecast Says

Gold and precious-metal prices are expected to remain volatile next week, with bullion forecast to trade between Rp 2.39 million and Rp 2.69 million per gram. Analyst Ibrahim Assuaibi also expects a stronger US dollar, rising oil prices and a weaker rupiah, citing escalating geopolitical tensions in Europe and the Middle East as key drivers.

Prabowo Meets URI Governor in Hambalang to Discuss P3MD and Campus Construction

President Prabowo Subianto met Universitas Republik Indonesia Governor Donny Ermawan Taufanto at his residence in Hambalang, where they discussed the P3MD leadership programme and progress on the university’s campus facilities. Donny reported that 384 participants are scheduled to undertake internships in January and February 2027, while the government said URI is intended to help prepare capable, nationally minded future leaders.

Renewable Energy Shares: Prospects and Recommendations for BREN, PGEO, KEEN and TOBA

Indonesia’s renewable energy expansion targets under the 2025–2034 electricity plan could create growth opportunities for BREN, PGEO, KEEN and TOBA, although project delivery, electricity tariffs, valuations and cash-flow conversion remain key considerations. Analysts highlight potential benefits from regulatory changes and solar development, while flagging company-specific operational, governance and profitability risks; recommendations include buy or accumulation strategies for selected shares.

Foreign Policy: Saudi Arabia’s Bet on Trump Ends in a Security Disaster

An analysis by Foreign Policy’s Nicholas Grossman argues that Saudi Arabia’s close ties and substantial investments in Donald Trump’s circle did not secure the kingdom’s interests as the US war with Iran destabilised the Gulf security order. Disruptions to energy routes and Riyadh’s reliance on US military protection have exposed the limits of personal diplomacy and the need for independent defence capacity.

PDIP Welcomes PKS’s Invitation to Pursue Gibran’s Diploma Controversy in Parliament

PDIP Secretary-General Hasto Kristiyanto says his party is open to dialogue with other parliamentary factions over the controversy surrounding Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s qualifications and the Constitutional Court ruling. He also called for forest-fire prevention measures, including reforestation, a moratorium on forest conversion and tougher penalties for those responsible for damage.

Indonesia’s Economic Growth Exceeds Global Average, Airlangga Reports 5.45% Expansion

Co-ordinating Economic Affairs Minister Airlangga Hartarto told President Prabowo Subianto that Indonesia’s economy grew 5.45% cumulatively in the first half of 2026, above the cited global average of about 3% and, according to his comparison, the highest rate in the G20. The figures cover year-on-year growth for the six-month period, while separate indicators cited by the government include manufacturing PMI at 52.4, consumer confidence at 118.1 and a trade surplus of 7.25.

10 Vegetables to Replace Rice in Your Diet: Rich in Nutrients and Fibre

Starchy vegetables and legumes can provide fibre, vitamins and minerals, and may serve as alternatives to rice when eaten in appropriate portions. The article outlines ten options and recommends paying attention to portion size and preparation, particularly for people managing blood sugar or following a low-carbohydrate diet.

Iran: Shipping Routes Through the Strait of Hormuz Will Never Be the Same After the War

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi says the war with the United States and Israel has created new realities for the Middle East and that shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, as well as its management, will change permanently. Tehran and Washington remain at odds over control of the strategic waterway, with diplomacy stalled after a temporary agreement in June.

Explosion at Scrap Metal Yard Causes Alarm; Police Investigate Triggering Object

Police are investigating an explosion at a scrap metal collection site in Tanjungpandan, Belitung, which left one scrap collector seriously injured. Bomb-disposal officers are examining the scene to establish the cause and rule out further hazards; investigators suspect an object among the collected metal may have exploded during weighing or cutting, but this has not been confirmed.

JK at Yale: Advanced Weapons Do Not Guarantee Victory

Former Indonesian vice-president Jusuf Kalla told an audience at Yale University that advanced weaponry alone does not determine the outcome of modern conflicts; strategy, resilience and the ability to operate technology are also decisive. He also urged the international community to put humanity at the centre of responses to global crises, including armed conflict and natural disasters.

Gibran Diploma Controversy: PDI-P Opens Dialogue with PKS

PDI-P says it is willing to discuss the controversy over Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s diploma with the Prosperous Justice Party (PKS), with party secretary-general Hasto Kristiyanto alleging that the Constitutional Court’s 2023 ruling involved an abuse of power. PKS has separately said it will consult other parliamentary factions and consider proposals including an inquiry or the right to express an opinion, while parliament is in recess.

Higher Education Minister Seeks to Strengthen University Leadership, with Research and Industry Links in Focus

Higher Education, Science and Technology Minister Brian Yuliarto says leadership training for university rectors can improve campus governance and foster research and industry collaboration. The programme, organised by the Indonesian Association of Private Higher Education Institutions, is expected to expand to university leaders and academic units nationwide, while also giving the ministry feedback on its policies and services.

Wildfire Closes in on Elephant and Deer Routes in Lampung’s Way Kambas National Park

Residents say forest and land fires have surrounded routes used by wild elephants and other wildlife in Way Kambas National Park, prompting locals to join a response team in fighting the blaze. Park officials say the fire is on the boundary with a company in Central Lampung Regency, not in the park’s core area or the Elephant Conservation Centre.

UNM’s Margonda Information Systems Programme Aims to Develop Future Digital Talent

Universitas Nusa Mandiri’s Margonda campus has introduced an undergraduate Information Systems programme designed to meet industry demand for professionals with technology, data-analysis and business skills. The university says students will gain practical experience and can apply through its online admissions service, with fee promotions and scholarships available during the current intake.

Tito Among Top Five Merah Putih Cabinet Ministers for Performance

Home Affairs Minister Muhammad Tito Karnavian ranked among the five ministers receiving the most positive performance assessments in an Indonesia Political Opinion (IPO) survey, with 12 per cent. Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman led the poll at 33 per cent; the survey interviewed 1,200 respondents across Indonesia between 12 and 20 October 2026.

Government postpones mandatory halal certification for MSMEs until 2028

The government has postponed the deadline for mandatory halal certification for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) until 2028, after many businesses failed to meet the original target. The delay, ordered by President Prabowo Subianto in response to business owners’ concerns about the administrative burden, will give the government time to develop a workable approach that balances legal requirements with MSMEs’ capacity.

NASA Highlights Indonesia’s Forest and Land Fires, Issues Special Warning

NASA says fire activity in Kalimantan and Papua has surged in 2026 amid El Niño-driven drought, raising the risk of substantial carbon emissions. Fires have already generated unusually high emissions in Papua, while smoke has disrupted flights and schools and worsened air quality; researchers say many blazes are ignited by human activity and can spread out of control in dry conditions.

A Dozen Residents Regret Looting Burnt Snack Warehouse

Police in Bengkulu detained 12 people, including adults and students, on suspicion of taking snacks from a warehouse after it caught fire. The suspects reportedly took quantities ranging from several packets to about 120, and later apologised in a video, promising not to repeat the offence.

Eating Before Bed Can Raise Blood Sugar Levels

Eating a large meal rich in sugar and refined carbohydrates shortly before sleeping may raise blood sugar overnight, particularly for people with prediabetes or diabetes. Research has linked a short gap between dinner and bedtime with a higher risk of type 2 diabetes, although it does not establish that late-night eating directly causes the condition.

How the IDX Composite Performed Over the Week After the IDX Removed HSC Stocks

The IDX Composite rose 4.90% in the week to 23 October 2026, while daily trading value and market capitalisation also increased after the Indonesia Stock Exchange announced changes to the index’s constituent-selection criteria. Despite the gains, foreign investors netted out Rp1.28 trillion, and the exchange adjusted the lower auto-rejection limit for certain low-priced shares through the end of the year.

Babel Brimob Bomb Squad Secures Scrap-Metal Yard After Explosion

A bomb-disposal unit from the Bangka Belitung police mobile brigade has secured the site of an explosion at a scrap-metal yard in Belitung after a scrap collector was seriously injured. Police suspect an object among the scrap may have detonated during weighing or cutting, but say the cause remains under investigation and are checking for further hazards.

Students Should Develop Problem-Solving Skills During University

Universitas Nusa Mandiri says students should build problem-solving abilities throughout their studies to prepare for the demands of professional work. The university is using case studies, group projects, research and interactive discussions to strengthen analytical thinking, while presenting mistakes as valuable opportunities to learn.

Pelalawan Police Distribute Food Parcels in a ‘Police with the Community’ Initiative

Pelalawan Police and the Pelalawan branch of the National Zakat Agency distributed 140 food parcels to residents in the coastal area of Kuala Kampar. The operation highlights efforts to support communities with limited access to services and strengthen ties between police and residents in remote waterside areas.

Iran says the Middle East will be transformed after the war

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi says the conflict with the United States and Israel has created new realities across the Middle East, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz. Tehran and Washington remain at odds over control and freedom of navigation in the strategic waterway, while diplomatic talks have stalled amid rising tensions.

IPO Poll: Amran, Sugiono and Tito Among Ministers Rated as Top Performers

An Indonesia Political Opinion (IPO) survey found that Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman received the highest rating among ministers, at 33%, while Home Affairs Minister Muhammad Tito Karnavian was rated at 12%. The poll, conducted among 1,200 respondents nationwide in October 2026, offers a snapshot of public perceptions of ministers’ performance.