Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Search Archive

Search Tips

You can use boolean operators in your search:

  • pugilist AND basketball - Both words must appear
  • jakarta OR surabaya - Either word can appear
  • jakarta NOT politics - Must have jakarta but not politics
  • +jakarta -politics - Must have jakarta, must not have politics
  • "exact phrase" - Search for exact phrase
  • basket* - Wildcard (matches basketball, basket, etc.)

Found 586,637 articles

Government Issues Visa for Andrea Bocelli’s Concerts in Indonesia

Immigration Minister Agus Andrianto says visas have been issued to Andrea Bocelli and his team after police authorised the events, despite calls for the concerts to be cancelled. The performances are scheduled for Borobudur Temple and Jakarta, while opposition has centred on the singer’s alleged fundraising concert in the United States for Israel’s military, prompting the Indonesian Ulema Council to invoke Indonesia’s support for Palestinian independence.

Video: Doo Financial Futures and Trading Strategies in Times of High Volatility

Doo Financial Futures chief executive Ariston Tjendra says global geopolitical tensions and rising interest rates are key concerns for financial-market participants, including futures investors. He says volatility can create trading opportunities, while the company is strengthening its digital platforms, analysis tools and risk-management features to help customers trade with greater awareness of risk.

Calling the West ‘Colonisers’, Putin Makes Promises to African Leaders

At the Russia-Africa summit in Moscow, Vladimir Putin portrayed Russia as Africa’s best partner and accused Western countries of exploiting the continent and burdening it with debt. He pledged Russian expertise, local production, infrastructure projects and increased supplies of fertiliser, as Moscow seeks to deepen its influence amid tensions over the war in Ukraine.

Deputy Social Affairs Minister Agus Jabo Backs Proposal to Name Journalist Udin a National Hero

Deputy Social Affairs Minister Agus Jabo Priyono has backed a proposal to posthumously recognise journalist Fuad Muhammad Syafruddin, known as Udin, as a National Hero for his work defending press freedom. The proposal must follow statutory local and provincial review procedures, and officials say it should be prepared for next year’s honours after the 2026 process has concluded.

Fewer Than 50% of Indonesian Motorists Pay Vehicle Tax on Time

Jasa Raharja says only 49.25% of Indonesia’s 116 million registered motor-vehicle taxpayers had met their payment obligations by September 2026. The shortfall matters not only for regional tax revenue but also for SWDKLLJ contributions, which fund compensation for road-traffic accident victims and eligible surviving relatives.

Indonesian National Serving in Russian Army Shot Dead by Ukrainian Forces in Donetsk

An Indonesian national identified as Taufiq Muhammad was killed during his first battle with Russian forces in Donetsk, according to Ukraine’s Defence Intelligence. The agency says he had received only a week and a half of military training before signing a one-year contract after being promised easy money.

Train Collision Claims 68 Lives as Spanish Prime Minister Orders Full Investigation

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has ordered a thorough investigation into a high-speed train collision that killed at least 68 people, pledging action if negligence is found. Early statements from the transport minister point to a system malfunction and a decision to resume services before the fault was resolved, while the opposition is demanding an independent review of the rail network.

KPK Questions In-Law of Former BNPB Chief in Disaster Response Fund Case

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has questioned the wife of a suspect and sister-in-law of former BNPB chief Suharyanto, along with several company executives, as witnesses in an alleged corruption case involving disaster-response funds. The investigation follows an October sting operation and has resulted in five suspects, seizures worth Rp5.47 billion, and inquiries into the possible involvement of active military personnel.

Casio Launches Lightweight Mechanical Watch with an Easy-to-Read Display

Casio has launched the CMK-100, a lightweight automatic mechanical watch designed for comfortable everyday wear and clear timekeeping. Its titanium case, low-glare dial and luminescent markers are intended to improve readability, while 10-bar water resistance makes it suitable for outdoor use as well.

Viral Video Claims Teh Botol Sosro Contains Soap

A video filmed during a demonstration in Central Jakarta alleges that a carton of Teh Botol Sosro produced soap-scented foam when its attached straw was removed and the package squeezed. PT Sinar Sosro says it is investigating the claim and has contacted the person who posted the video to trace the product and establish the facts.

Constitutional Court: Removing Regional Heads Opposed to the Regime Requires Regional Council Proposal

Indonesia’s Constitutional Court has ruled that regional heads and deputy regional heads accused of political offences arising solely from opposition to the government cannot be suspended without a proposal from the Regional People’s Representative Council (DPRD). The ruling also clarifies the interpretation of the five-year prison threshold and sets the registration of a criminal case in court as the starting point for any interim suspension.

Are There Any Public Holidays in November 2026? Check the Three-Ministerial Decree

November 2026 will have no national public holidays or collective leave days, according to the three-ministerial decree setting the 2026 holiday calendar; its only days off will be weekends. The article also lists national and international observances falling during the month, while noting that the remaining public holidays in 2026 are in December.

BMKG Warns Jakarta Residents to Prepare for Heavy Rain in Late October

Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) forecasts moderate to heavy rain across parts of Greater Jakarta on 29–30 October 2026, with some locations remaining at risk on Friday. Residents, particularly in flood-prone areas, are urged to monitor official weather updates and prepare for flooding, river overflow and landslides.

Kediri Residents Hit by Drought as Rumah Zakat Distributes Clean Water

Rumah Zakat has delivered 8,000 litres of clean water to residents of Ponggok village in Kediri district, where a prolonged drought has left households struggling to access water. The delivery is intended to ease the burden on residents who have had to ration supplies or pay for water deliveries to meet basic needs.

Peruri Provides TB Education and Free Health Checks in Karawang

State-owned Peruri held a tuberculosis prevention education session and offered free health checks to residents of Parungmulya village in Karawang, West Java. The initiative, delivered under its PERURI SEHATI corporate social and environmental responsibility programme, aims to promote early detection and improve access to health information and services around the company’s operating area.

Immigration and Corrections Minister Orders Health Checks and Serious Treatment for Staff Exposed to Forest Fire Haze

Immigration and Corrections Minister Agus Andrianto has instructed regional offices to ensure staff and family members affected by forest and land-fire haze receive appropriate medical care, including referral for advanced treatment where needed. Cases of acute respiratory infection have been reported among personnel and their families in Central and East Kalimantan, prompting plans for lung checks and coordination with health facilities.

Hashim: Rupiah Could Fall to Rp21,000 per US Dollar if Foreign Funds Keep Fleeing

Hashim Djojohadikusumo warns that continued foreign outflows from Indonesia’s stock market could push the rupiah to Rp20,000–Rp21,000 per US dollar, increasing the cost of the country’s foreign debt. He called for action against suspected share-price manipulation, which he said threatens millions of domestic investors and has drawn scrutiny from global index provider MSCI.

Bali Forms Team to Advance Green Energy Cooperation with Ningxia

Bali’s provincial government is forming a special team to develop concrete cooperation plans with China’s Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region across areas including green energy, agriculture, trade and tourism. Governor Wayan Koster highlighted clean energy and battery electric vehicles as priorities, while the Ningxia delegation proposed building a long-term partnership, potentially through a sister-province arrangement.

Two Singaporeans arrested in Thailand over alleged vice syndicate involvement

Two Singaporean men have been arrested in Thailand in a joint operation over allegations that they ran a transnational syndicate recruiting Thai women for prostitution in Singapore. The investigation, which also involved arrests and questioning of Thai suspects and the seizure of assets, highlights cross-border police cooperation against organised crime.

Constitutional Court Clarifies Ambiguity in Regional Government Law on Removing Regional Heads

Indonesia’s Constitutional Court has partially granted a petition challenging rules on the temporary suspension of regional heads and deputy regional heads facing criminal charges. It clarified that suspension applies to charges carrying a sentence of five years or more and specified exceptions for negligence offences and political offences, while also defining when suspension takes effect.

Senayan City Immigration Hub Offers Polycarbonate Passport Printing

Central Jakarta’s Class I Non-TPI Immigration Office has opened an Immigration Hub at Senayan City mall, currently the only place in Indonesia offering polycarbonate passport printing. Officials say applicants face the same document requirements as for standard passports, while laser printing offers stronger protection against forgery and duplication.

Social Affairs Ministry Offers Free Social Rehabilitation Services in Makassar

The Ministry of Social Affairs provided free health, physiotherapy and psychosocial support services at an event marking the first anniversary of Sekolah Rakyat in Makassar. The ministry also exhibited products made by ATENSI programme beneficiaries, aiming to promote their work and expand marketing opportunities that could support greater economic independence.

Government stresses need to verify information on social media

Indonesia’s Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs has urged the public to verify social media and AI-generated information against credible sources, warning that platform algorithms shape what users see and that AI responses may be inaccurate. The ministry also called on electronic system operators to improve transparency around AI use and algorithm management, particularly to help people assess information related to government policies and allegations.

AI Data Centres Are ‘Thirsty’; Industry Minister Sarmuji Proposes Coastal Sites

Industry Minister Sarmuji says AI data centres should be developed in specially planned locations because they require substantial electricity and water, and could otherwise compete with nearby communities for resources. He suggested coastal sites where seawater could be desalinated, while the Indonesian Industrial Estates Association called for data centres to be located within managed industrial estates.

BGN Prepares Loka MBG App to Make SPPG Procurement Transactions More Transparent

Indonesia’s National Nutrition Agency (BGN) is preparing Loka MBG, a marketplace linking kitchens serving the Free Nutritious Meals programme with farmer and livestock-breeder cooperatives and associations. The platform will use government reference prices to improve transparency, give local producers better market access and prevent discrepancies between actual purchase prices and those reported to the agency; a phased rollout is planned from November 2026.

Indonesian Air Force deploys 11 aircraft to combat forest and land fires

The Indonesian Air Force has deployed 11 transport aircraft to support forest and land fire mitigation, carrying logistics and materials for weather-modification operations across several regions. Officials say the operations have brought rain to some affected areas, while maintenance teams and BRIN technicians are working to keep aircraft and equipment ready.

Hashim Warns Businesspeople to Stop Stock Manipulation

Hashim Sujono Djojohadikusumo has urged Kadin members to stop manipulating share prices, saying the government intends to crack down on the practice. He warned that stock manipulation undermines foreign investor confidence and disproportionately harms retail investors, amid concerns over falling share values among millions of Indonesians with brokerage accounts.

Video: Bappebti and the Futures Exchange Boom as Gold Transactions Reach Rp347 Trillion

Bappebti reported that commodity futures trading reached 11.82 million lots by September 2026, up 4.95% year on year, while gold transactions surged 488% to Rp347.65 trillion. The article also highlights the regulator’s discussion of market prospects, global volatility and the transfer of oversight for certain commodities to the Financial Services Authority (OJK) and Bank Indonesia.

Village Ministry Honours Nine Villages for Strong Performance in Stunting Prevention

The Ministry of Villages and Development of Disadvantaged Regions has honoured nine villages for their efforts to prevent and reduce stunting in 2026. Minister Yandri Susanto said village funds, the Free Nutritious Meals programme and village-led economic development can help improve nutrition and tackle poverty, which he identified as a root cause of stunting.

Get Ready for 2027: One Payment for Three Hours of Transjakarta, MRT and Other Services

Jakarta plans to introduce an integrated public transport fare system in early 2027, allowing passengers to transfer between services for up to three hours after paying once. The scheme will initially cover Transjakarta, MRT and LRT, with integration with the Jabodetabek commuter rail network targeted as a subsequent stage; officials also plan monthly passes and say travel data will help guide subsidies and route improvements.

Bareskrim: Four Foreign-Funded Companies Named Suspects in Forest and Land Fires

Indonesia’s Criminal Investigation Agency says four foreign-funded companies are among 20 corporations named as suspects in forest and land-fire cases. It has recorded 104 corporate-related reports covering about 29,169 hectares and proposed revoking the permits of 23 companies, with final decisions resting with the relevant authorities.

Communications Ministry Says Digital Social Protection Can Kick-start Integration of Services Through DPI

The Communications and Digital Affairs Ministry says digitalising social protection is an initial step towards integrating government services through Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI). Pilot data-sharing has reportedly cut processing times from as long as 200 days to as little as one minute, while reducing costs for applicants; the programme has registered 15.7 million households ahead of its planned national rollout on 10 November 2026.

Finance Ministry Responds to Debate Over Tax on Sanitary Pads

Indonesia’s Directorate General of Taxes says sanitary pads are subject to VAT under the general rules for taxable consumer goods, as they are not currently among items exempted by law. The agency says any proposal to change their tax treatment would need to consider the public impact and fiscal implications, amid social media comparisons with Scotland’s provision of free menstrual products.

Rupiah Exchange Rate Influenced by Statements on the Fed’s Policy Direction

The rupiah weakened against the US dollar at Thursday’s close, while the dollar remained sensitive to economic data and US Treasury yields amid uncertainty over the Federal Reserve’s next interest-rate moves. An ICDX analyst said currency movements will also depend on capital flows, domestic demand for dollars and forthcoming US inflation and growth data.

Top Criminal Investigation Chief Says Foreign Companies Accused of Forest Fires Will Be Prosecuted in Indonesia

Indonesia’s National Police have named 20 corporations suspects in alleged forest and land fires, including four foreign-investment companies linked to Singapore, Malaysia and South Korea. Police say the cases will be handled transparently under Indonesian law, with company directors identified as those responsible for the corporations’ legal representation.

South Jakarta Ride-Hailing Driver Injured in Crash: BPJS Employment Ensures His Entitlements Are Protected

BPJS Ketenagakerjaan and Serang Regent Ratu Rachmatuzakiyah visited ride-hailing driver Hasan Syukur, who was seriously injured while working, and said they were overseeing his treatment and employment injury benefits. Hasan was already enrolled through Serang’s programme for vulnerable workers, highlighting how local-government-backed social insurance can protect informal workers and their families when an accident interrupts their income.

Didi Max Berjangka Wins Best Trading Education Award

PT Didi Max Berjangka received the Best Trading Education award at the Road to CNBC Indonesia Awards 2026, with Bappebti chief Tirta Karma Senjaya presenting the prize. The brokerage offers varied trading instruments and educational facilities, alongside features including low spreads, high leverage and a promotional car reward.

BPOLBF promotes Camino de Flores as a religious tourism icon in East Nusa Tenggara

The Labuan Bajo Flores Tourism Authority is promoting Camino de Flores as a religious tourism attraction that combines pilgrimage with local culture, nature and community engagement. The 70-kilometre walk across Ngada, Nagekeo and Ende concluded with a visit to sites linked to Sukarno’s exile, while officials and participants said the event could raise Flores’s profile and support post-earthquake recovery.

Witness at Dr Tifa’s Trial Reveals Jokowi’s Remarks as Fake-Diploma Controversy Erupts

A witness in the trial of Tifauzia Tyassuma, known as Dr Tifa, told the court that Joko Widodo expressed disappointment after his diploma was alleged to be fake. The witness said he had seen the diploma during a case review and considered it genuine; Tifa faces multiple charges under Indonesia’s Criminal Code and Electronic Information and Transactions Law.

Ahok Discusses Leadership at PDIP Youth Pledge Anniversary Event

PDIP executive and former Jakarta governor Basuki Tjahaja Purnama, known as Ahok, said leaders must listen to residents and engage in dialogue before making policy. He also called for transparent budgets and a fairer share of natural-resource revenue for regional governments, framing public office as a means of advancing social justice.

Fuel and LPG Imports to Be Routed Through Lemigas; Bahlil Says No State Budget Funds Will Be Used

Indonesia plans to route oil, fuel and LPG procurement currently handled by Pertamina through Lemigas, although the policy remains in a transition phase and requires consolidation with the state-owned company. Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia said the arrangement will not use the state budget, while Indonesia continues to rely heavily on imports for oil and LPG.

Legislator Praises National Police Chief over 20 Corporations Named Suspects in Forest and Land Fires, Calling It a Firm Step

Indonesian MP Rudianto Lallo has backed the National Police’s decision to name 20 corporations as suspects in alleged forest and land fires, saying the public has long awaited decisive enforcement. Police say the companies include four foreign-investment firms linked to investors from Singapore, Malaysia and South Korea, and hope prosecution will deter recurring fires.

Police Propose Revoking Licences of 23 Companies Suspected of Involvement in Forest and Land Fires

Indonesia’s National Police Criminal Investigation Agency has recommended revoking the permits of 23 companies suspected of involvement in forest and land fires, citing repeated fires, ignition sources within concessions, inadequate fire-control facilities and burned areas exceeding 500 hectares. Police have recorded 104 corporate-related reports covering about 29,168.78 hectares, with 20 companies named as suspects; separate investigations have named 245 individuals as suspects. Any licence revocations remain subject to the processes and authority of the relevant agencies.

Silmy Karim Accused of Extorting Rp168 Billion over Foreigners’ Residence Permits

Former Deputy Minister of Immigration and Corrections Silmy Karim and six other officials have been charged in an alleged extortion scheme involving immigration services for foreign nationals. Prosecutors say applicants paid fees under pressure to avoid delays, and that the group collected nearly Rp169 billion between 2021 and 2026, with proceeds distributed among the accused.

South Korea’s Former President Yoon Faces Renewed Death Penalty Demand

Special prosecutors have again sought the death penalty for former South Korean president Yoon Suk Yeol, appealing his life sentence for leading an insurrection through his failed martial law declaration in December 2024. The appeal hearing focused on the deployment of troops to the National Assembly, while Yoon maintains the declaration was intended as a warning to the opposition-controlled parliament.

PGN Signs Seven Commercial Agreements to Strengthen Natural Gas Supply

PT Perusahaan Gas Negara (PGN) has signed seven commercial agreements with domestic gas suppliers, covering pipeline gas and LNG, to diversify and secure supply for customers. The deals include future supplies from the Abadi LNG project in the Masela Block, with a planned total of 775 trillion British thermal units over 15 years from the start of commercial operations.

Singapore Pledges to Strengthen Integration During Its 2027 ASEAN Chairmanship

Singapore’s Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan says the country will seek to deepen ASEAN integration and partnerships when it holds the chairmanship in 2027, with resilience in strategic supplies a priority. He also highlighted the need for regional cooperation on transboundary haze, praising coordination with Indonesia and efforts to protect communities affected by forest and land fires.

Minister Says Free Nutritious Meals and Village Funds Can Help Tackle Stunting

Village and Disadvantaged Regions Development Minister Yandri Susanto said the Free Nutritious Meals programme and village funds could support efforts to reduce stunting. He argued that the programme can also generate economic opportunities in villages, while stressing that progress depends on coordinated action by ministries, local authorities and village governments.

Germany and Japan to Discuss Cooperation on Next-Generation Fighter Jet Programme

Germany and Japan will hold defence-ministerial talks on possible German participation in Japan’s next-generation fighter programme, developed with the UK and Italy and targeted for completion by 2035. Berlin is assessing its options after a separate fighter project with France and other countries was abandoned amid disagreements over which company would lead it.

Video: Valbury’s Facilities Help Investors Access Forex and US Stock Markets

Valbury says its digital trading platform offers access to more than 650 assets, including forex, commodities and US shares, supported by market-monitoring tools, charting and artificial intelligence. The company also says it educates traders on disciplined trading and investment risks, as it received recognition at the CNBC Indonesia Awards 2026.

HPV Can Cause Cancer in Men, with 90% of Anal Cancer Cases Linked to the Virus

Persistent HPV infection is linked to several cancers in men, including anal cancer, around 90% of cases of which are associated with the virus. The Health Ministry is expanding HPV immunisation to boys as well as girls, aiming to provide equal protection against HPV-related disease.

Bulog Chief Reveals How RPK Operator Ordered SPHP Rice Before Alleged Adulteration

Bulog chief Ahmad Rizal Ramdhani says an operator of a Rumah Pangan Kita outlet in East Jakarta ordered government-subsidised SPHP rice through the company’s official system before allegedly repacking and mixing it. Bulog and police are tracing the supply chain, including the truck and official distribution channels used to obtain the rice.

Indonesia considers data centre clusters in industrial estates

Indonesia is considering dedicated data centre clusters within industrial estates to accommodate their high electricity and water demands and avoid competition with residential communities for water. The government also aims to raise industrial estate utilisation, now at 57.2 per cent, and promote themed estates outside Java that build on regional strengths.

North Korea Fires 10 Ballistic Missiles as Tensions Rise on Korean Peninsula

North Korea fired around 10 short-range ballistic missiles into waters off its east coast, prompting South Korea, Japan and the United States to heighten monitoring and share information. The launches come amid worsening inter-Korean border tensions and concern in Seoul that renewed US-North Korea nuclear talks could leave South Korea sidelined.

HPV Immunisation Coverage for Year Five Boys Reaches 88%

Routine data to 25 October 2026 show HPV immunisation coverage among Year Five boys at 88%, with Bali and Yogyakarta exceeding the 90% target. The Health Ministry plans to expand the programme to three more provinces, while officials cite vaccine misinformation and access disruptions as ongoing challenges amid Indonesia’s substantial cervical cancer burden.

Buleleng Fisherman Dies While Spearfishing

A 49-year-old fisherman was found dead off Kalibukbuk, Buleleng, after setting out to spearfish late on Wednesday night. His family said he had a history of heart disease and declined an autopsy; police have handled the evacuation and are following standard procedures.

Silmy Karim Accused of Extorting Rp168.9bn over Foreigners’ Residence Permits

Former Deputy Minister for Immigration and Corrections Silmy Karim has been charged with extorting applicants for immigration documents, with prosecutors alleging payments totalling Rp168.9 billion. They say Karim received Rp1.2 billion, while other former immigration officials also benefited from the scheme involving residence permits for foreign nationals.

National Economic Council member proposes prioritising rooftop solar applicants ready to install

National Economic Council member Mochamad Firman Hidayat has proposed replacing the rooftop solar quota’s first-come, first-served system with a first-ready, first-served approach, arguing that this would prevent allocated capacity from going unused. He also called for clearer quota-setting, simpler applications and longer registration periods, while cautioning that any reform should account for costs, power-system readiness and other stakeholders.

DPR: Prabowo’s Meeting with Singapore’s Foreign Minister Was Part of Strategic Communications

A senior lawmaker said President Prabowo Subianto’s meeting with Singaporean Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan formed part of strategic communications between the two countries. He highlighted forest and land fires as a potential issue, stressing that tackling them requires cross-border cooperation, including information-sharing and financial investigations into companies involved.

Astra Recognises Five Young Innovators Through the 2026 SATU Indonesia Awards

Astra International recognised five young people and four Desa Sejahtera Astra communities for initiatives spanning health, education, the environment, entrepreneurship and technology. The company also announced seven social programmes ahead of its 70th anniversary, targeting support for 700 villages and communities across seven Indonesian islands.

One Person Named as Suspect in East Jakarta SPHP Rice Adulteration Case, Agriculture Minister Says

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman says investigators have named one person as the main suspect in the alleged repackaging and sale of subsidised SPHP rice as premium rice in East Jakarta. Separately, eight officials at Bulog and the National Food Agency have been removed from their posts and two reprimanded, while their possible involvement remains under investigation.

Indonesia House of Beans Osaka: Gateway for Indonesian Coffee and Cocoa Exports to Japan

Bank Indonesia and the Ministry of Trade are promoting Indonesia House of Beans Osaka to connect Indonesian coffee and cocoa producers with buyers in Japan. The initiative combines market access and business networking with promotion of 20 supported small and medium-sized enterprises, while also encouraging cross-border QRIS payments through participating coffee shops.

Under Scrutiny, Communications Ministry Sets Out Criteria for Content to Be Taken Down Within Four Hours

Indonesia’s Communications and Digital Affairs Ministry says a ministerial decree requiring platforms to remove certain content within four hours is aimed at addressing urgent, high-risk disinformation and hate speech, not silencing criticism. The decree also requires platforms to provide an appeals process for users affected by content moderation.

Axera’s ADAS chip reaches Europe with Leapmotor, advancing global expansion

Axera’s advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS) chip is entering the European market through Leapmotor, following mass production in China and deployment at more than 50,000 vehicles a month. The expansion comes as Axera reports rising market share and automotive SoC shipments, positioning the chipmaker to pursue further international vehicle programmes.

Sahroni Praises National Police Chief’s Commitment to Naming Four Foreign Companies as Suspects in Forest and Land Fires

DPR Commission III Deputy Chairman Ahmad Sahroni praised the National Police for naming 20 corporations, including four foreign-investment companies, as suspects in alleged forest and land fires. He urged transparent, firm prosecution, saying the companies should not evade accountability because they are foreign entities; the fires affected 29,168.78 hectares.

Police Investigate 22 Foreign-Invested Companies over Forest and Land Fires, Most Linked to Singapore

Indonesia’s National Police are investigating 22 foreign-invested companies as part of a broader probe into 97 corporations suspected of involvement in forest and land fires. The police say 20 corporations have been named suspects, including four foreign-invested firms, while the fires covered by the police reports affected nearly 29,169 hectares.

Muhammadiyah Backs Police Chief’s Firm Action in Naming 20 Companies as Suspects in Forest and Land Fires

Muhammadiyah has backed the police’s decision to name 20 companies as suspects in suspected forest and land fires, calling for a zero-tolerance approach and prosecution of all parties responsible. Police say the cases involve 104 reports covering 29,168.78 hectares, with four of the companies being foreign-invested firms; Muhammadiyah has offered to work with police on systemic analysis and public discussions.

Telkom Strengthens ESG Efforts Through UN Global Compact Membership and Zero Waste to Landfill Programme

Telkom Indonesia has joined the United Nations Global Compact and launched a Zero Waste to Landfill programme at The Telkom Hub in Jakarta, working with Waste4Change. The initiatives are intended to embed sustainability in the company’s governance and operations, including waste sorting and processing that keeps recoverable waste out of landfill.

Depok Grandmother Arrested for Allegedly Setting Granddaughter Ablaze After Being Left to Walk 1km

Police in Depok have arrested a 64-year-old woman accused of dousing her 17-year-old granddaughter with kerosene and setting her alight after the teenager failed to collect her, leaving her to walk one kilometre. The victim suffered burns to 80 per cent of her body and remains in hospital; the suspect faces charges carrying a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison.

Video: Doo Financial Futures Has an Advanced App to Help with Trading Analysis

Doo Financial Futures says its digital platforms, including MetaTrader 5 and its own app, are designed to support commodity futures trading amid global volatility. The company says the app offers analysis and risk-control tools, while stressing that investors should understand transaction mechanisms and account for risk.

Fatal Collision Between Two High-Speed Trains in Spain Began with an Unusual Operator Instruction

Spain’s transport minister says an initial investigation has linked a collision between Renfe and Iryo high-speed trains to an unexplained instruction from rail traffic control. The Renfe train was travelling at about 200 kilometres per hour when it struck the Iryo train, which had stopped on the same track; 68 people were reported killed.

National Economic Council Plans Pilot of Direct Electricity Subsidy Transfers

The National Economic Council is preparing a one-region pilot that would replace electricity tariff subsidies with direct transfers to eligible households, while setting tariffs in the trial area at market levels. Details including the location, timing, transfer amounts and eligible customer groups have not been finalised; the government is also developing a digital social-protection system to improve targeting and allow people to challenge eligibility assessments.

Signs Indonesians Need Cash Are Showing Up in the Used-Car Market

Indonesia’s used-car market is seeing prices adjust as new-car promotions and more affordable battery electric vehicles intensify competition. A growing supply of used cars—including vehicles sold by owners needing cash—is also putting pressure on prices, while industry leaders say consumers are shifting towards used cars and away from new purchases.

BGN Permanently Closes 2,000 Free Nutritious Meal Kitchens Over Hygiene Failures

Indonesia’s National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has permanently shut more than 2,000 kitchens in the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme for failing hygiene and sanitation requirements, including lacking a required certificate. The agency says it is tightening oversight and will also withhold operational funding from kitchens that fail to report daily spending; around 6,100 of 26,385 operating kitchens have yet to submit those reports.

OPML and Bengkulu Provincial Government to Use Solar Power for Downstream Processing in Enggano

Oxford Policy Management Limited (OPML) and the Bengkulu Provincial Government are developing a low-carbon pilot on Enggano Island that will use solar power for banana-flour processing and fish storage. The project is expected to reduce energy costs and carbon emissions, although it will not yet supply electricity to residents’ homes.

11 Indonesian Air Force Aircraft Deployed to Help Extinguish Forest Fires

The Indonesian Air Force has deployed 11 transport aircraft to support forest and land-fire response across the country, following President Prabowo Subianto’s order to use Hercules aircraft. The fleet is transporting supplies for weather-modification operations, which the Air Force says have already brought rain to some fire-affected areas.

Gibran discusses EV innovation and technology with Asian EV pioneer

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka discussed building an ecosystem for electric-vehicle research and innovation with Chan, an Indonesian-born Chinese engineer known as the “Father of Electric Vehicles in Asia”. The discussion highlighted government support for EV manufacturing, consumer incentives, skills development and Indonesian technological self-reliance, alongside closer Indonesia-China collaboration.

Indonesia Praises Malaysian Police over Abuse Case

Indonesia’s ambassador to Malaysia praised the Royal Malaysia Police for arresting at least four people allegedly implicated in the abuse of an Indonesian domestic worker, as well as an agent suspected of arranging her placement. The victim, identified as SR, is recovering and hopes to return to her family in Banten; the Indonesian Embassy is ready to facilitate her return and has coordinated with Malaysian authorities.

Countries of Origin of Companies Suspected in Indonesian Forest and Land Fires: Singapore, Malaysia and South Korea

Indonesia’s National Police have named 20 companies as suspects in forest and land fire cases, including four foreign-investment firms linked to Singapore, Malaysia and South Korea. Investigations cover more than 29,000 hectares, and the police say further corporate suspects may be identified as inquiries continue.

Countries of Origin of Corporations Accused over Forest and Land Fires in Indonesia: Singapore, Malaysia and South Korea

Indonesia’s National Police have named 20 corporations as suspects in forest and land-fire cases, including four foreign-investment companies linked to Singapore, Malaysia and South Korea. The cases cover nearly 29,169 hectares, and investigations may identify further corporate suspects; the companies face charges under environmental protection legislation.

KPK Summons Former Kutai Kartanegara Regent Rita Widyasari Again in Money-Laundering Case

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has again summoned former Kutai Kartanegara regent Rita Widyasari as a suspect in an alleged money-laundering case. The investigation follows her conviction for receiving Rp110 billion in gratification linked to project permits, and a separate allegation that she received money from mining businesses.

Copyright Bill Must Protect the Economic Rights in Journalistic Works

Speakers at the Indonesia Digital Media Conference 2026 urged the Copyright Bill to clarify media companies’ economic rights, ensure fair compensation for journalists and creators, and set boundaries for AI and digital platforms’ use of journalistic content. Proposals included collective licensing, transparent usage data and clearer rules on human contributions to AI-assisted works, while preserving journalists’ rights as creators.

Indonesian Air Force Deploys Five Helicopters to Fight Fires from Mount Ciremai to Nusantara

The Indonesian Air Force has placed five helicopters on standby and deployed aircraft to fight forest and land fires in several regions, including Nusantara, Mount Ciremai, Mount Lawu and Galuga landfill. The helicopters are conducting aerial patrols, water-bombing and fire monitoring, with the largest reported operation at Galuga involving about 54,000 litres of water.

Computer Science Degrees Fall Out of Favour as Graduate Unemployment Rises

Enrolment in computer science programmes at US universities has fallen sharply, with undergraduate numbers down more than 12% this autumn and postgraduate enrolments also declining. The article links the slump to AI-driven cuts to entry-level coding jobs, a tougher job market for graduates and fewer international students, while community colleges have seen modest growth.

Deputy Minister Urges New Graduates to Strengthen Their Competencies

Deputy Higher Education, Science and Technology Minister Fauzan urged graduates to look beyond their degrees by developing their skills, character and independence, and using their education to improve people’s lives. He also highlighted 200 KIP Kuliah scholarship places at UNP Kediri in 2026; the university’s three-day graduation ceremony is awarding degrees to 1,824 graduates.

Indonesia to Send 3,030 Vocational Graduates on Overseas Work Programmes

Indonesia’s Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education is preparing to send 3,030 vocational-school and training-institution graduates abroad for internships and employment, with destinations including Germany, Japan, South Korea and Malaysia. The initiative aims to expand job access, build international work experience and improve graduates’ skills and competitiveness; the ministry says more than 13,000 vocational graduates are now working overseas.

Indonesia boosts tourism promotion to attract British tourists

Indonesia is promoting its tourism offerings in the United Kingdom through sales missions in Glasgow and Manchester and its participation in WTM London 2026. The campaign will bring together tourism businesses and showcase cultural, culinary and other high-value experiences to expand commercial partnerships and attract British visitors.

Banten Police Question 49 Witnesses in Investigation into Batumandi Ferry Fire

Banten Police have questioned 49 people, including passengers and crew, as they investigate the cause of the Batumandi passenger ferry fire near Merak Port. Investigators have yet to inspect the overturned vessel; its salvage by state-owned ferry operator ASDP is needed before a technical examination can proceed. All 460 passengers and crew were evacuated safely, although some were injured.

Tianneng unveils multi-chemistry battery portfolio and advances localised new-energy ecosystem

Tianneng presented a portfolio spanning lead-acid, lithium-ion, sodium-ion and solid-state batteries for mobility and energy-storage applications, while partners from several countries, including Indonesia, discussed local production and market development. The company said it would deepen research, local manufacturing and partnerships to build a resilient global supply chain; industry representatives also called for standards recognition and cross-border cooperation.

KPK Summons Seven Witnesses in South Sumatra Railway Corruption Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned seven witnesses, including former officials and private-sector representatives, as it develops an investigation into alleged corruption involving railway construction and maintenance projects in South Sumatra. The inquiry is being pursued under an investigation warrant issued in May 2026.

Through BSA 2026, Jakarta Provincial Government Sharpens Mayors’ Communication Skills

Jakarta’s regional cooperation bureau is providing public-relations and public-communication training to the 10 finalists of the Benyamin S Award 2026. The initiative aims to help urban village heads explain government programmes more effectively, strengthen public trust and measure the impact of their communications.

Kim Jong-un Reportedly Discussed Dialogue with the US During China Visit

South Korea’s National Intelligence Service believes Kim Jong-un used his recent visit to China to convey Pyongyang’s position on the possibility of talks with the United States. The visit came ahead of the APEC summit in Shenzhen, where US President Donald Trump is due to attend and has said he wants to resume dialogue with Kim.

Pupuk Indonesia: Fertiliser Availability and Affordability Are Top Priorities

PT Pupuk Indonesia says maintaining the availability and affordability of fertiliser remains paramount as it pursues a gradual, measured energy transition. The state-owned company reported that its Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions in 2025 were 17.47 per cent below the business-as-usual scenario, equivalent to 2.25 million tonnes of CO2e.

Social Affairs Ministry: South Sulawesi students at Sekolah Rakyat receive vocational training

The Social Affairs Ministry says students at Sekolah Rakyat in South Sulawesi are receiving vocational training to help them enter the workforce and become self-reliant after graduation. A recent programme with a local hair studio trained 35 students in make-up, haircuts and hairstyling, with vocational opportunities tailored to local and student potential.

Valbury Reveals Investors’ Favourite Assets in the Second Half of 2026

Valbury president director Nino Limantara says investor preferences shifted in the second half of 2026, with growing interest in US equities and crude oil after earlier activity focused on gold. He also highlighted the popularity of US share markets, ETFs and gold among Valbury clients, and outlined the firm’s online and in-person investor education programmes.

Jasa Marga Marks Youth Pledge Day by Promoting Leadership Renewal

State-owned toll-road operator Jasa Marga says it is creating opportunities for younger employees to develop leadership skills and contribute to innovation as part of its long-term business sustainability strategy. Millennials and Generation Z make up 35 per cent of its workforce, while 24 per cent of employees in leadership or strategic roles belong to these generations; the company is also promoting digital tools and staff-led innovation.

Man from Madura Arrested in Gianyar for Stockpiling Pertalite to Resell

Police in Gianyar have arrested a 31-year-old man accused of buying Pertalite at a petrol station and reselling it to local shops at a higher price. Officers seized 350 litres of fuel and the car used to transport it; he faces up to six years in prison under Indonesia’s Oil and Gas Law.

Merdeka Gold allocates US$11.4 million to explore Pani gold deposit

Merdeka Gold Resources has earmarked US$11.4 million for a 50,000-metre drilling programme at the Pani Gold Mine and nearby exploration targets in Gorontalo. Recent drilling found gold mineralisation in three areas, including below and beyond the current resource model, but further drilling and technical assessment are required before any new mineral resource or ore reserve can be declared.

More Than 2,000 Free Nutritious Meal Kitchens Permanently Shut: Here’s Why

Indonesia’s National Nutrition Agency says it has permanently closed more than 2,000 kitchens participating in the Free Nutritious Meal programme over serious hygiene and sanitation breaches. Officials also cited alleged brokering, in which foundation operators sought per-meal commissions without providing the capital needed to run kitchens.

Police Arrest 19 During 28 October Demonstrations, Seize 12 Cans of Paint

Jakarta police arrested 19 people during demonstrations on 28 October, saying they were suspected of carrying items intended for vandalism, including 12 cans of paint. The protests coincided with Youth Pledge Day and included demands on disaster response, public spending, education, jobs, human rights and civil liberties.

Twenty Corporations Named Suspects in Forest and Land Fires; House Commission III Praises National Police Chief’s Leadership

A deputy chair of the House of Representatives’ Commission III has praised the National Police for naming 20 corporations, including four foreign-invested firms, as suspects in alleged forest and land fires. The investigations cover 104 police reports and 29,168.78 hectares of burned land, with calls for accountability, environmental restoration and support for affected communities.

Local aid groups in Myanmar step up to help vulnerable communities amid worsening humanitarian crisis

With 16.2 million people in Myanmar expected to need humanitarian assistance in 2026, local organisations are helping fill gaps through essential supplies and vocational training, including reusable sanitary pads made by vulnerable people. Their work faces severe constraints from insecurity, restricted access and a shortfall in UN funding, while an ASEAN mission is beginning rice and essential-goods distribution to more than 11,000 households.

Culture Minister Stresses the Importance of Conserving Maros’s Natural Heritage

Culture Minister Fadli Zon has called for the sustainable protection of the biodiversity and natural heritage of South Sulawesi’s Bantimurung Bulusaraung National Park, part of the Maros-Pangkep UNESCO Global Geopark. He said geopark management must meet UNESCO’s conservation, education and periodic reporting requirements, while recognising the links between geological, biological and cultural heritage.

Fleeing to the US, Flavio Bolsonaro Claims to Be Brazil’s Legitimate Leader

Defeated presidential candidate Flavio Bolsonaro has arrived in Florida after reportedly leaving Brazil despite a travel ban, and says he will lead the opposition from the United States. His departure comes amid ongoing corruption and money-laundering investigations, while he alleges electoral fraud and political persecution.

Ties Growing Closer: Indonesia-Kazakhstan Cooperation Is More Than Just Words

Indonesia and Kazakhstan are seeking to deepen ties across trade, investment, transport, energy, education and other fields, with their leaders having met three times on the sidelines of international events over the past year. Kazakhstan is preparing a package of more than 20 bilateral agreements for President Prabowo Subianto’s planned state visit next year, while a free trade agreement between Indonesia and the Eurasian Economic Union is expected to boost trade, currently worth about US$250 million.

KPK Summons New Suspect in Rejang Lebong Regent Corruption Case

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned B Daditama, a former expert adviser to the Rejang Lebong administration, as part of an expanded investigation into alleged bribery linked to public procurement. The case concerns alleged project kickbacks totalling Rp1.7 billion to the now-suspended regent, with the KPK’s investigation also naming a company director as a new suspect.

Women’s Role in Building Inclusive Climate Resilience Strengthened

The Ministry of Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection is calling for women to play a central role in inclusive, gender-responsive climate resilience, alongside efforts to strengthen women’s economic empowerment and household food security. A Monash University researcher highlighted the need for gender-responsive climate finance, practical guidance on gender equality, disability and social inclusion, and measures to prevent and respond to gender-based violence.

Bangka Regency and Pertamina Agree to Limit Subsidised Fuel Purchases

Bangka Regency Government and Pertamina have agreed to limit purchases of subsidised Pertalite at local petrol stations, aiming to ease queues that have persisted for several months. Motorcyclists may buy up to five litres once a day upon presenting vehicle registration documents, while refuelling hours for six-wheeled vehicles are set between 4am and 5am.

Beware of Trading Promotions, Broker Warns of Need for Financial Literacy

More than half of Indonesia’s investors are under 30, with the investor count reaching 32.17 million by the end of September 2026, according to OJK data cited by Finex. The brokerage warns that social-media trading content can blur education and promotion while downplaying the risk of losing capital, and urges novice traders to check creators’ credibility, commercial ties and disclosure of risks.

bank bjb’s Profit Rises 37.3% Through September 2026

bank bjb reported consolidated assets of Rp219.7 trillion and net profit attributable to owners of Rp1.1 trillion for the first nine months of 2026, up 37.3% year on year. The lender said its growth-with-quality strategy combines selective lending and tighter risk management with stronger low-cost funding, fee income and operational efficiency.

Indonesia Among Countries Spending the Most on Food

Indonesian consumers allocated 33.1% of their expenditure to food consumed at home in 2025, ranking the country 23rd among 103 countries and territories. Separately, FAO estimates that healthy diets were unaffordable for about 43.5% of Indonesia’s population in 2024, highlighting how food costs and household incomes shape access to nutritious meals.

Thousands of Islamic Boarding School Students to Pray for Forest Fires to Be Brought Under Control

Thousands of santri are due to gather at Jakarta’s Istiqlal Mosque on 30 October for prayers for Indonesia and for the swift containment of forest and land fires in Kalimantan and Sumatra. The event will conclude the 2026 National Santri Day programme and include the launch of pesantren initiatives, a letter to President Prabowo Subianto and an inauguration ceremony.

Investment Surges as Apindo Praises Jakarta’s Transformation

Apindo chair Shinta Widjaja Kamdani praised Jakarta’s rapid transformation, citing investment growth of 62.5% from 2023 to 2025—1.7 times the national average. She highlighted transport, artificial intelligence, data centres and green business as investment opportunities, while calling for stronger governance and greater inclusion of MSMEs to sustain growth.

Transmigration Ministry and House of Representatives Strengthen Cooperation on Development in Muna

Deputy chair of Commission V Ridwan Bae has urged Muna regency to use a visit by the Transmigration Ministry’s secretary-general to press for infrastructure investment and improved welfare in transmigration areas. The ministry has handed over 100 land-ownership certificates in Raimuna, with the remaining certificates for 286 households scheduled for processing or funding through 2027.

Rupat Residents Declare ‘Drug-Free’ Village as Riau Police Push for Clean Communities

Residents of North Rupat, Bengkalis Regency, have pledged to prevent drug abuse and illicit narcotics trafficking, with Riau Police emphasising a coordinated approach combining enforcement, prevention and public education. The declaration was accompanied by social assistance and a tree-planting activity, underscoring community participation in both public safety and environmental stewardship.

Mahfud MD: Students Have the Right to Protest, but Must Respect Police Maintaining Public Order

Former coordinating minister Mahfud MD said students must be free to express their views through demonstrations, while police have a duty to maintain public safety. He urged protesters and officers to respect one another and avoid escalating tensions, warning that unrest harms the public.

Parents of Little Aresha Daycare Victims Disappointed, Deem 2–3-Year Sentences Unfair

Parents of children abused and neglected at Yogyakarta’s Little Aresha daycare have criticised the prison terms handed to 11 caregivers, saying sentences of two to three years do not reflect the harm or its long-term effects. They are also angered that court-ordered restitution was removed, leaving families to cover years of therapy costs, and hope prosecutors will appeal.

KPK Questions Wife of Former BNPB Chief’s Brother as Witness in Disaster Fund Corruption Case

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has questioned Sri Endang, a commissioner at PT Alfa Pranata Yudha and the wife of suspect Bima Setiawan, as a witness in an alleged corruption case involving BNPB disaster-response funds. Investigators suspect vendors linked to Bima benefited from direct procurement contracts, while a separate cluster of the case concerns alleged bribes involving private-sector vendors.

Video: Didimax Trading Tips for Navigating Volatility in the Futures Market in 2026

Didi Max Berjangka says it is pursuing sustainable growth in customers, trading activity and service amid market volatility and global geopolitical tensions. Its director, Cenli Yani, stresses that customer education should cover both investment prospects and risks, helping traders decide when to transact and when to hold back.

FPI Ready to Mobilise Supporters to Press for Andrea Bocelli Concert Cancellation

The Islamic organisation Front Persaudaraan Islam (FPI) says it is ready to mobilise supporters alongside the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) to seek the cancellation of Andrea Bocelli’s concert in Indonesia, citing the singer’s alleged support for Israel. FPI leader Muhammad Alatas outlined possible demonstrations and online campaigns, while also suggesting that any concert allowed to proceed should include public support for Palestine and donations from its proceeds.

Singapore to Become a BTS City for a Month — When Will Jakarta Get Its Turn?

Singapore will host the first BTS THE CITY ARIRANG programme in Southeast Asia from 1 to 31 December 2026, alongside four sold-out BTS concerts. HYBE says it has no plans to bring the programme to Indonesia, while the month-long city-wide activations are expected to boost tourism and related businesses.

Jokowi Degree Trial: Dr Tifa Says Aiman’s Attendance Is ‘Very Important for Justice’

Dr Tifa, a defendant in the alleged defamation case concerning former president Joko Widodo’s degree, has asked iNews editor-in-chief Aiman Witjaksono to testify. She says his evidence about the broadcaster’s “Rakyat Bersuara” programme—cited as evidence in the case—could clarify the proceedings and protect freedom of expression.

BGN Requires SPPGs to Renew Agreements to Prevent MBG Kitchen Brokerage

Indonesia’s National Nutrition Agency (BGN) is requiring every Nutrition Fulfilment Service Unit (SPPG) to renew its cooperation agreement as part of efforts to strengthen governance of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme and curb brokerage. The agency says around 600 kitchens linked to fictitious foundations may have generated up to Rp1 billion a day, and that new agreements will be reviewed by its legal bureau and notarised, with electronic signing due to begin in stages from late October 2026.

Rupiah Gains 0.28% as US Dollar Closes Lower at Rp18,125

The rupiah rose 0.28% to Rp18,125 per US dollar, recovering after hitting a record closing low in the previous session. The currency strengthened as the dollar eased following the Federal Reserve’s decision to hold rates, while investors awaited US inflation and jobs data and the European Central Bank’s policy announcement.

Culture Ministry commits to making traditional music part of cultural advancement

The Ministry of Culture says it will integrate traditional music more fully into cultural policy through the Indonesia Traditional Music Festival, with the Makassar edition showcasing nine South Sulawesi groups. The festival also recognises practitioners who sustain the tradition and forms part of a nationwide programme supported by the Dana Indonesia Raya fund.

Tangerang Police Bust Synthetic Drug Production Syndicate Operating Through Social Media

Tangerang City Police say they have dismantled a cross-regional network producing synthetic tobacco and selling it through social media, arresting six suspects and seizing evidence valued at about Rp400 million. Investigators uncovered three connected production sites, with the suspects allegedly using Instagram and map coordinates to arrange distribution.

Sudaryono Aims to Eliminate MBG Food Poisoning Incidents and Calls for Tighter Food-Service Rules

National Nutrition Agency chief Sudaryono says preventing any food-safety incidents in the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme is a top priority. The agency plans to tighten food storage and serving procedures, introduce consumption-time labels and seals, and expand CCTV monitoring at meal preparation facilities.

UI Patriot Expedition Team supports Red and White Village Cooperative managers in West Papua

Universitas Indonesia’s Patriot Expedition Team has trained managers of the Werianggi and Werabur Red and White Village Cooperatives in Teluk Wondama, West Papua, on business licensing through the risk-based OSS system. The programme, delivered with the local investment and one-stop services agency, covers business identification numbers, business classifications and compliance requirements, aiming to strengthen cooperative governance and support legal, sustainable business development.

Yamie Ayam Anugerah Depot Owner in Purworejo Finds QRIS BRI Makes Transactions Easier

BRI says its QRIS payment service is helping micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in Kutoarjo handle cashless payments more easily. The owner of Depot Yamie Ayam Anugerah says it simplifies payments, reduces the need for change and makes incoming transactions easier to monitor, while BRI also highlights the importance of digital-payment security.

Hashim Warns Rupiah Could Fall to Rp21,000 per US Dollar if Issue Is Not Resolved

Presidential Special Envoy for Climate and Energy Hashim Sujono Djojohadikusumo warned that substantial foreign investment outflows amid concerns about a possible downgrade of Indonesia’s stock exchange could push the rupiah to Rp20,000–Rp21,000 per US dollar. He urged businesses to stop stock-price manipulation, warning that a weaker currency would raise the cost of foreign debt and pose serious economic and political risks.

Hashim Warns the Rupiah Could Fall to Rp21,000 per US Dollar

Presidential climate and energy envoy Hashim Sujono Djojohadikusumo warned that major foreign investment outflows could push the rupiah to between Rp20,000 and Rp21,000 per US dollar, raising the cost of servicing overseas debt. He urged businesses to stop stock-market manipulation, warning that continued market turmoil could have serious economic and political consequences.

This Indonesian Region Grew Wealthy Without Taxing Its People

Historical accounts describe the Sultanate of Palembang as a prosperous state whose rulers’ income relied heavily on trading pepper and tin rather than ordinary tax levies. The account highlights the economic role of commodity exports, while cautioning that it does not establish that wealth was shared equally or that no other charges existed.

Batam Customs Prioritises Services for 76 Compliant Companies

Batam Customs is giving priority services to 76 exporters and importers selected under its EPIC 100 programme for their strong customs compliance. The companies were assessed against four measurable criteria, out of around 1,500 export-import businesses operating in Batam in 2026.

Rumah Zakat Strengthens Response to Forest and Land Fires and Protects Volunteers

Rumah Zakat has provided emergency supplies, clean water and protective equipment to communities affected by forest and land fires and to volunteers supporting the response. The organisation is calling for stronger cross-sector collaboration, improved preparedness and firm action against those responsible for starting fires.

Mecca Pact: Strategic and Geopolitical Significance of the Quartet Meeting in Tehran

Senior officials from Iran, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye and Pakistan met in Tehran to explore regional security cooperation and ways to de-escalate tensions, with Saudi Arabia describing the visit as part of efforts to support dialogue and mediation. The meeting comes amid fears of renewed conflict involving Iran, Israel and the United States, and follows a mutual-defence pact signed by Saudi Arabia, Türkiye and Pakistan in August.

To Realise Golden Indonesia, Deputy Home Affairs Minister Addresses Young People

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya Sugiarto urged young people to voice their ideas and take an active role in shaping Indonesia’s future, saying the 2045 national vision depends on broad collaboration. Drawing on his own leadership programme experience and visits to schools, he said critical discussion must be accompanied by concrete strategies and contributions from all parts of society.

Police Name 245 Individuals and 20 Companies as Suspects in Forest and Land Fire Cases

Indonesia’s National Police have named 245 individuals and 20 companies as suspects in forest and land fire cases recorded across the country through October 2026. Investigators have also recommended revoking the business licences of 23 companies, while the police have deployed personnel for enforcement, prevention and support for affected communities.

Immigration Ready to Act Against Israeli Tourists Causing Trouble in Lombok, Provided There Is Evidence

Indonesia’s Director General of Immigration, Hendarsam Marantoko, says authorities will take action if they receive concrete evidence that a group of Israeli tourists stole goods from shops on Gili Meno. The group, comprising 20 women, has since left Lombok for Bali and returned to Israel, while the allegations have spread on social media.

Pekanbaru City Government Allocates Rp12.4bn for Free School Uniforms

Pekanbaru is providing three sets of free uniforms to 19,900 pupils at public primary and junior secondary schools for the 2026/2027 school year. The city has allocated more than Rp12.4 billion for the programme, which Mayor Agung Nugroho says will continue annually to ease the cost burden on parents.

Kuansing Regent Suhardiman Amby Set to Stand Trial

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has completed its investigation into alleged bribery involving Kuantan Singingi Regent Suhardiman Amby and handed him and the evidence to prosecutors. Prosecutors have up to 14 working days to prepare an indictment, while the case also involves allegations of vehicle gifts and payments linked to forest-conversion recommendations.

Former KPK Deputy Chairman Warns Against Seizing Officials’ Assets Omitted from LHKPN

Former Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) deputy chairman Nurul Ghufron opposes a proposal to seize officials’ assets simply because they were not declared in their asset reports (LHKPN). He says administrative reporting breaches should not automatically be treated as proof of criminal origins, and insists any seizure must follow valid evidence and criminal procedure while safeguarding property rights and legal certainty.

Antam strengthens profitability and maintains solid financial fundamentals

State-owned miner Antam reported a 46 per cent rise in net profit to Rp9.66 trillion in the first nine months of 2026, alongside growth in revenue, EBITDA and operating profit. The company attributed its performance to strong business fundamentals, effective working-capital management, cost controls and measured risk management.

Examining the Harmonized System and Indonesia’s Leadership at the HSC

Indonesia has secured a leadership role in the World Customs Organization’s Harmonized System Committee, with Taufik Ismail re-elected by acclamation to chair its 2027 sessions. The committee’s work on product classification and future HS revisions helps maintain consistency in customs procedures, trade statistics and the rules governing imports and exports, although international decisions do not automatically take effect in Indonesia.

Russia Comes Under Missile Barrage as 613 Drones Target Moscow

Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said 613 drones were launched towards the capital overnight, with Russia’s Defence Ministry reporting that 231 were destroyed on approach. The attack coincided with a Russia-Africa summit in Moscow and followed a large-scale drone assault in September; Russia also struck Kharkiv, damaging an educational institution.

Komdigi Says Four-Hour Takedown Rule Is Not Intended to Silence the Public

Indonesia’s Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs says its four-hour deadline for platforms to remove specified content is intended to curb disinformation and hate speech, not suppress public criticism. The rule has drawn concerns over freedom of expression and also places responsibility on digital platforms to prevent content that could destabilise society.

Religious Affairs Ministry Urges Intensified Campaign for Official Marriage Registration

The Religious Affairs Ministry has urged its regional offices and the Indonesian Association of Marriage Registrars to step up public awareness of official marriage registration, highlighting the legal protections it provides, particularly for women and children. It is also preparing to integrate marriage, divorce and population data under the 2027 National Strategy for Corruption Prevention to improve service governance, data accuracy and fraud prevention.

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya Urges M.H. Thamrin High School Students to Prepare for a Golden Indonesia 2045: The Future Is in Their Hands

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya Sugiarto urged students to prepare for Indonesia’s 2045 development goals through careful planning, personal growth and active participation in society. He said the country’s future—including prosperity, research and innovation, more evenly distributed development and environmental sustainability—must be built through concrete steps taken now.

Breaking: JCI Slumps 3%, BCA Shares Fall 5% — Here’s Why

Indonesia’s Composite Stock Price Index (JCI) fell 3.04% to 5,121.97 in late Thursday trading, with BCA among the biggest drags after its shares dropped 5.7%. Investors were weighing the Federal Reserve’s divided decision to hold rates, upcoming US inflation and labour-market data, the ECB’s rate decision, and risks including war-related energy costs and rising Indonesian government bond yields.

Telkom CEO Outlines the Future Potential of the AI Industry

Telkom CEO Nanang Hendarno says AI’s next major business opportunities will depend not only on technology sales, but on the infrastructure, investment and partnerships needed to support widespread use. He highlighted five potential global industries and said long-term investment, reliable energy, clear regulation and redesigned business processes will be essential to turning AI adoption into sustainable economic value.

PUI Praises Police for Naming 20 Corporations as Suspects in Forest and Land Fires

Persatuan Ummat Islam (PUI) has praised the police for naming 20 corporations as suspects in alleged forest and land fires, including four foreign-invested companies. PUI urged the authorities to review their response to prevent future incidents and called for local communities and civil society organisations to help protect forests.

SBN Yields Hit Six-Year High: What Is Driving the Rise?

The yield on Indonesia’s 10-year government bonds rose to 7.70%, its highest level since May 2020, as domestic and global risks weigh on investor confidence. Economists point to rupiah weakness, foreign capital outflows and fiscal concerns, while forecasting yields could approach or exceed 8% if pressures persist.

Social Affairs Ministry Offers a Range of Free Health Services in Makassar

Indonesia’s Social Affairs Ministry has provided free health and social rehabilitation services in Makassar as part of the one-year anniversary of Sekolah Rakyat. The programme also showcased products made by beneficiaries of its ATENSI scheme, aiming to expand market opportunities and support their economic independence.

Indonesia hires 13,000 personnel to staff Sekolah Rakyat campuses

Indonesia has hired about 13,000 teachers and support personnel for its Sekolah Rakyat boarding-school programme, with further recruitment under way as the government plans to expand the network from 182 campuses to 500 by 2029. Launched in 2025 for children from the country’s lowest four socioeconomic deciles, the programme is part of the government’s broader effort to tackle poverty by expanding access to education and improving human capital.

Wife’s Words to Dwi Bagus, Accused of Killing His Unregistered Wife: ‘It’s Already Happened, Just Accept It’

After a reconstruction of the murders of his unregistered wife and her four-year-old child, Dwi Bagus Martono’s legal wife, Marta, urged him to accept responsibility and remain patient. The emotional exchange, in which Bagus reportedly wept and knelt to apologise, went viral on social media.

2026 Belt and Road Green Innovation Conference Held in Hong Kong

The 2026 Belt and Road Green Innovation Conference brought together nearly 300 officials, experts and industry leaders from more than 20 countries to discuss sustainable development and accelerating the green transition in the Global South. Chinese Environment Minister Huang Runqiu highlighted China’s commitment to green development and international cooperation, while Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee pointed to the city’s role in financing and managing green infrastructure projects.

Expert calls for joint ASEAN cyber action against online gambling

An international relations expert has urged Indonesia and other ASEAN members to establish a regional centre or task force to coordinate cyber operations, intelligence-sharing and efforts to trace illicit proceeds from cross-border online gambling. He said legal and regulatory differences complicate cooperation, and called for stronger domestic enforcement, digital literacy education and data collection to protect vulnerable groups from financial and social harm.

Supra Sekuritas Caught Up in OJK Sanctions; Pandu Speaks Out on Ownership

Danantara investment chief Pandu Sjahrir says his indirect stake in Supra Sekuritas is a passive minority investment and that he had no role in its management or trading decisions. OJK has not publicly named the brokerage firms sanctioned in its market-manipulation cases, which involved fines totalling Rp2.1 trillion and come amid efforts to strengthen Indonesia’s capital-market governance.

Anwar Abbas Testifies as a Defence Witness for Former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut

MUI Deputy Chairman Anwar Abbas appeared as a defence witness for former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas in the trial over alleged corruption involving additional Hajj quotas in 2023–2024. Abbas said Yaqut had worked hard and carried significant responsibility for ensuring the pilgrimage ran smoothly; prosecutors allege the scheme caused state losses of about Rp622 billion.

KPK summons Customs and Excise civil servant and land deed official in Customs case

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned a Customs and Excise civil servant and a land deed official as witnesses in an expanding corruption investigation. The case began with a February 2026 sting operation and now includes allegations linked to cigarette excise arrangements, with investigators having searched a Customs office and PT Djarum.

Singapore Says Indonesia Is Committed to Honouring Gas Export Contracts

Singapore Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan said both countries are committed to honouring their gas supply contracts after Indonesia reduced exports by 31 MMBTUD. The reduction, attributed to maintenance and rising domestic demand, is around 8 per cent of pipeline exports and remains within the agreed minimum threshold; Singapore has also diversified its energy supplies and prepared an LNG terminal.

Bappebti’s Strategy to Promote Tin and CPO Trading on the Futures Exchange

Bappebti says it is promoting commodity futures trading linked to the needs of the real sector, including the development of tin and crude palm oil (CPO) trading. Its chief also sees growth potential in gold and other derivatives, which can help businesses manage risk amid global challenges and regulatory changes.

DPD Chair’s Mission to Turn Local Heroes into National Inspirations Through the DPD RI Awards

DPD RI Chair Sultan Baktiar Najamudin says the 2026 DPD RI Awards will spotlight regional talent and bring local concerns and aspirations into national policy discussions. More than 1,100 people applied—nearly double last year’s total—with nominees selected through a rigorous verification and curation process.

Alphabet reports higher revenue but lower net profit in Q3 2026

Alphabet’s third-quarter revenue rose 25% year on year to US$127.58 billion, driven by strong growth in Google Search and Cloud, while net profit fell 24% to US$26.47 billion. The decline reflected a swing from investment gains to losses, even as Google Cloud revenue more than doubled and CEO Sundar Pichai said AI investment was boosting Search activity and Gemini had reached one billion users.

40,000 Civil Servants Hit by Data Breach, with Phone Numbers and Emails Exposed

A hacktivist group says it exposed personal and operational data belonging to more than 40,000 employees of the US Department of Homeland Security, including staff at ICE, CBP and CISA. Reuters verified the data against other sources; the incident is the third major breach affecting US security institutions in a month, while Okta denies that its systems were compromised.

High-fibre foods that can lower cholesterol

Oat-based snacks can support lower LDL cholesterol, especially when combined with nuts, which provide soluble fibre, beta-glucan, unsaturated fats and plant sterols. The article also points to broader dietary guidance from the American Heart Association, stressing sustained changes such as eating more whole grains, fruit, vegetables, nuts and seeds.

Antasyafi Robby: Young People Are Fighters for the Nation and State

Indonesian climbing athlete Antasyafi Robby Al Hilmi says the 98th anniversary of the Youth Pledge is a reminder that young people can serve the country through their work in many fields. He argues that unity, courage and adaptability remain vital as young Indonesians face economic and geopolitical challenges, and urges them to make a contribution through consistent effort.

Horror Collision Between Two High-Speed Trains in Spain Occurs at 200 km/h

At least 68 people were killed and more than 100 injured when a Renfe train struck a stationary Iryo train on Spain’s Madrid–Seville high-speed line. Transport Minister Óscar Puente said a computer-system failure disrupted safety controls, after which the state rail operator ADIF manually authorised a train to proceed despite a red signal; a full investigation is under way.

Chinese Robotics Company Offers Technology Transfer

Shenzhen-based AI² Robotics is seeking local partners in Indonesia to develop its artificial intelligence and robotics business, including through technology transfer, research collaboration and real-world applications. The company says local partnerships will also be important for maintenance, support services and adapting robots to Indonesian market needs.

Merdeka Gold Commits Rp206 Billion to Search for More Gold at Pani

Merdeka Gold Resources has approved an US$11.4 million (about Rp206.39 billion) exploration programme for 2027 after drilling at its Pani Gold Mine in Gorontalo identified gold mineralisation across three areas. The planned 50,000 metres of drilling will test extensions to known mineralisation and other targets, but further work is needed before any new findings can be included in a formal mineral resource estimate or ore reserve.

Riau Islands Provincial Government to Pay BPJS Employment Contributions for Thousands of Natuna Residents

The Riau Islands provincial government will cover BPJS Employment contributions for 6,281 independent farmers and fishers in Natuna using the regional budget. The scheme extends work-related accident and death protection to vulnerable workers, with education scholarships available to eligible children of active members.

Analyst: JCI Correction Driven by Investors Reducing Exposure to Risky Assets

The Jakarta Composite Index fell 2.86 per cent as global and domestic concerns prompted investors to reduce exposure to riskier assets, with foreign outflows and profit-taking adding to selling pressure. An analyst expects volatility to persist in the near to medium term, advising investors to manage risk and focus on fundamentally strong shares at more reasonable valuations.

KPK Summons Six Private-Sector Figures in Case Involving Suspended Pemalang Regent

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned six private-sector figures to testify in an extortion investigation involving suspended Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro. The probe stems from a July 2026 sting operation and covers allegations that Anom solicited funds through an associate, as well as a separate alleged scheme to extort Anom by offering to arrange his case at the KPK.

Social Affairs Ministry Offers a Range of Free Services to Mark School Rakyat’s First Anniversary

The Social Affairs Ministry provided free health, rehabilitation and psychosocial services at an event marking the first anniversary of Sekolah Rakyat in Makassar. The programme also showcased products made by ATENSI beneficiaries, with the ministry seeking to bring rehabilitation services closer to the public and broaden market opportunities for their work.

Two Saudi Nationals Stab Three People Outside Pecatu Nightclub with Folding Knives

Two Saudi nationals allegedly stabbed three people outside a nightclub in Pecatu, Bali, after being expelled following a dispute with other patrons. Police say the suspects brought folding knives into the venue and are coordinating with the Saudi Embassy as they investigate; the men face up to five years in prison if convicted of assault.

East Java Government Offers 4,807 Jobs Through Inclusive Job Fair

East Java’s provincial government is offering 4,807 job and internship opportunities from 102 companies through its Inclusive Job Fair 2026, running from 29 October to 6 November. The event combines an in-person fair in Surabaya with an online recruitment period and is intended to widen access to employment, including for people with disabilities.

Not Just Named Suspects: 23 Companies Proposed for Licence Revocation over Forest and Land Fires

Indonesia’s National Police Criminal Investigation Department has proposed revoking the licences of 23 companies suspected of involvement in forest and land fires, citing repeat fires, inadequate firefighting facilities and burned areas exceeding 500 hectares. The proposal follows investigations into 97 of 104 police reports; separately, 20 companies have been named suspects in cases involving a total of 29,168.78 hectares of burned land.

Bogor Attacker Who Hacked Bobotoh Supporter Carried a Sickle Everywhere

Police say a 26-year-old man who fatally attacked a Bobotoh football supporter in Bogor routinely carried a sickle and had often been involved in or initiated street brawls. The victim was returning from a match at Pakansari Stadium when he was attacked; he later died in hospital.

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Urges Young People to Speak Up for Golden Indonesia 2045

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya Sugiarto has urged young people to continue putting forward ideas and help shape Indonesia’s future, saying the 2045 national vision requires collaboration across society. He cited examples from visits to schools and called for discussion forums to remain spaces where people can exchange views and develop practical contributions.

Indonesia and South Korea Develop Project to Recycle Mining Waste into Critical Minerals

Indonesia and South Korea are preparing an implementation document for a project to recover critical minerals from mining waste, with completion targeted by the end of 2026. The partnership is intended to improve Indonesia’s use of secondary resources and environmental management while drawing on South Korean technology, and to support greater domestic processing and value creation.

Culture Minister Urges Leang Bulu Sipong to Be Designated a Cultural Heritage Site

Culture Minister Fadli Zon has called for the accelerated designation of Leang Bulu Sipong 4 in South Sulawesi as a National Cultural Heritage site. Its cave art, estimated to be around 48,000 years old, offers important evidence of early human life, while environmental changes and surface deterioration make stronger protection and ongoing conservation essential.

A Closer Look at Indonesia’s Steps and Strategy Towards Food Sovereignty

President Prabowo Subianto has stressed the importance of strengthening Indonesia’s food security and protecting regional trade routes to safeguard supplies. A CNBC Indonesia special programme will examine how technology, research, agricultural innovation and collaboration can boost local production, reduce import dependence and advance food self-sufficiency.

Translators and Media Professionals from China and Abroad Discuss Yantai’s New Drivers of Development

Translators and journalists from China and five other countries visited Yantai to examine its cultural heritage, biotechnology and smart manufacturing sectors, and coastal tourism. The event also provided a forum on cultural translation, communicating scientific and technological innovation, and international city-to-city engagement.

Police Reschedule Questioning of Dandhy Laksono over Pesta Babi Film

Metro Jaya Police have again rescheduled a clarification session for documentary filmmaker Dandhy Dwi Laksono, who did not attend two previous appointments concerning a complaint linked to his film Pesta Babi. The case remains under preliminary investigation, while Dandhy’s lawyers argue that such invitations are not provided for in criminal procedure rules and that he has no formal status requiring him to attend.

Depok City Government Accelerates Red-and-White Cooperative Programme

Depok is stepping up its Red-and-White Cooperative programme despite delays in establishing physical outlets, with the mayor asking the central government to relax rules on using municipal assets that lack land certificates. The city says only about 1,500 of its roughly 9,000 assets are certified and is exploring alternative sites, while encouraging online sales and allocating dedicated funding for the cooperatives.

Air Force Says Transport Aircraft Are Ready for Forest and Land Fire Missions

The Indonesian Air Force says its transport aircraft are ready to support efforts to tackle forest and land fires, with maintenance teams conducting regular inspections, repairs and testing. Eleven aircraft are currently involved, including in delivering supplies for weather-modification operations and dispersing salt to induce rain over fire-affected areas.

BGN Chief Requires Free Meals Programme Kitchen CCTV to Be Linked to Central System

National Nutrition Agency chief Sudaryono says CCTV cameras in kitchens participating in the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme must be connected to the agency’s central system, where AI will help monitor food preparation and flag hygiene breaches. The agency aims to connect 5,000–10,000 of its 26,300 kitchens by the end of 2026, alongside new crisis-management guidelines following food-poisoning reports.

DEN: Verifying Industrial Emissions Could Cut CBAM Costs by 90 Per Cent

A National Economic Council simulation found that verified, actual emissions data could reduce estimated EU Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism costs by about 90 per cent in one case, compared with using the EU’s default values. The DEN is urging faster emissions measurement, reporting and verification, as Indonesia’s exports of CBAM-covered goods to the EU were worth about US$2.32 billion in 2025; the 90 per cent figure is not a realised saving or applicable to all exporters.

Pekanbaru Mayor Personally Hands Out Free Uniforms to Students

Pekanbaru is providing free school uniforms to 19,900 pupils at public primary and junior secondary schools for the 2026/2027 academic year, funded by a municipal allocation of more than Rp12.4 billion. Mayor Agung Nugroho said the programme is intended to ease families’ education costs and will be budgeted for in future years.

Sudaryono Exposes Sale of MBG Service Locations, Naming Those Involved and Their Methods

BGN chief Sudaryono says service locations for the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme were allegedly sold for Rp300 million to Rp350 million, with intermediaries taking daily deductions from food-tray payments. He also alleges that hundreds of fictitious kitchens and weak menu standards resulted from the scheme, and says the agency is cancelling questionable procurement and replacing staff as part of an overhaul.

Gianyar Regency Builds Infrastructure to Support Preschool Education

Gianyar Regency is developing and upgrading early childhood education facilities to support the central government’s one-year compulsory preschool programme, including classrooms, play areas and free uniforms for pupils at state-run centres. Officials say the initiative is intended to make learning safer and more accessible while strengthening cooperation between teachers and parents as part of the 13-year compulsory education programme.

Padang City Government Speeds Up Construction of 138 Permanent Homes for Disaster Victims

Padang City Government says around 60 of the 138 permanent homes planned for people affected by the 2025 disaster have been completed. It aims to finish all units by the end of 2026.

Jokowi Becomes a Magnet for PSI as It Sets Its Sights on a Top-Three Finish in the 2029 Election

The Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI) is targeting a seat in the House of Representatives and a top-three finish in the 2029 election, with party officials calling for stronger grassroots organisation, broader recruitment and greater public trust. Ahmad Ali said Joko Widodo’s arrival could attract support, but stressed that the party must convert the attention into concrete work in communities.

Sudaryono: MBG Kitchens Can Now Be Monitored by Posyandu Staff and Parents

The National Nutrition Agency says the public—including parents, teachers and posyandu staff—can inspect kitchens and provide feedback on the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. The agency is also expanding oversight through a monitoring platform, public complaints hotline, AI-enabled CCTV and coordination with local governments to check kitchen standards and meal quality.

Dwi Bagus, Accused of Killing His Wife and Child, Worked on Foreign Projects, Earning Rp9 Million a Day

Police say murder suspect Dwi Bagus Martono worked in manufacturing on projects for foreign companies, including offshore oil-platform construction, subsea drilling and soil surveys. He was reportedly paid as much as Rp9 million per day under contract, and could work on assignments lasting three months.

Haunted Homes Become a Target for Bargain Hunters, with Discounts of up to 50%

In Japan, properties associated with tragic deaths can sell or rent for substantially less than comparable homes, attracting buyers and tenants seeking lower costs. While guidelines require agents to disclose certain deaths, rising property and living costs are making some people more willing to consider these stigmatised homes.

One-Year-Old Dies After Going 10 Days Without Food in South Sulawesi’s Bulukumba

One-year-old Nakla Syafira died in hospital after reportedly going 10 days without food or milk and spending nine days in intensive care. Local officials and her family’s neighbourhood leader said illness prevented her from eating, while the case has prompted scrutiny of the circumstances surrounding the care of the child, whose mother had died and whose father worked outside Bulukumba.

Unknown Projectile from North Korea Turns Out to Be Around a Dozen Ballistic Missiles; South Korea on Alert

South Korea says North Korea fired around a dozen short-range ballistic missiles from near Wonsan towards the East Sea, prompting Seoul to heighten surveillance. The launch comes amid worsening tensions over a DMZ landmine blast that injured three South Korean soldiers, which a joint South Korean-UN investigation attributed to North Korea—a claim Pyongyang denies.

Jasa Marga Marks Youth Pledge Day with Leadership Renewal and Digital Innovation

State-owned toll-road operator Jasa Marga says millennials and Generation Z make up 35% of its workforce, with 24% of employees in leadership or strategic roles drawn from these generations. The company is using youth development and employee-led digital innovations to support operational transformation and improve services for road users.

At Assisi Forum, MUI Deputy Chair Urges World Not to Import War into Asia

MUI Deputy Chair Marsudi Syuhud urged global leaders to keep war out of Asia and share the continent’s traditions of peace, speaking at an interfaith forum in Assisi, Italy. Citing conflicts from Gaza and Myanmar to Ukraine and the Middle East, he called on religious leaders to advance dialogue, diplomacy and negotiation.

MIND ID Prepares Raw Material Supply Chains for High-Tech Industries

MIND ID is preparing domestic mineral supply chains to support the manufacture of components for electric vehicles, energy infrastructure and aviation. Danantara Indonesia says the government is targeting US$20–30 billion in investment over the next three years for priority industrial projects, with advanced materials and semiconductors among the key areas; officials say Indonesia must build technological and manufacturing capabilities beyond resource extraction and processing.

Regions of Indonesia Forecast to Enter the Rainy Season in November 2026

BMKG forecasts that 185 seasonal zones, covering 24.66% of Indonesia’s land area, will enter the rainy season in November 2026, with the onset expected to spread gradually from northern Sumatra. Across most of the country, the 2026/2027 rainy season is forecast to start later than the climatological norm, while rainfall totals are expected to be normal in most seasonal zones and the season itself shorter than usual in many areas.

MSME Credit Program Supports 12 Million Jobs by October 2026

Government programme lending to micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) is estimated to have supported around 12 million jobs by October 2026, based on 4.2 million borrowers and an estimate of three to four workers per borrower. Officials say the programme’s impact also includes rising incomes and improved family welfare, strengthening the case for expanding MSMEs’ access to finance given their substantial contribution to the national economy.

Video: Didi Max Offers Education on Maximising Forex, Gold and Silver Trading Returns

Didi Max Berjangka says it is expanding trader education to help clients understand market prospects, entry strategies, capital management and investment risks. The futures broker also highlights its trading services in currencies, gold and silver, and says it has operated since 1999 while focusing on client fund protection.

KPK Summons West Lombok Education and Culture Chief and Four Witnesses in LAZ Case

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned five officials and employees as witnesses in a suspected corruption case involving inactive West Lombok Regent Lalu Ahmad Zaini. The commission alleges that Zaini received up to Rp12.4 billion through conflicts of interest in procurement and bribes linked to a local government project.

Spain Declares Three Days of Mourning After High-Speed Train Collision Kills 68

Spain has declared three days of national mourning after a collision between Renfe and Iryo trains killed 68 people and injured more than 100, with 15 of the injured in serious condition. The crash, the country’s second high-speed rail collision this year, has renewed scrutiny of rail safety as rescue teams search the wreckage and authorities investigate the cause.

ASEAN Power Grid Could Cut Electricity Costs

Cross-border electricity trade through the ASEAN Power Grid could lower energy costs and bolster supply security by connecting countries with surplus power to those facing shortages. ASEAN Centre for Energy executive director Razib Dawood says the region should expand bilateral arrangements into multilateral trade, supported by transmission links that connect renewable-energy sources to major demand centres.

Why We Still Appreciate Bada Shanren’s Works Today

Young people from 19 countries and regions gathered in Nanchang, Jiangxi, to mark the 400th anniversary of artist Bada Shanren’s birth and explore his work. International students described how learning about his life and engaging with the emotions in his paintings helped them connect with his art across cultural and linguistic boundaries.

Hong Kong housing secretary resigns over deadly Tai Po fire

Hong Kong Housing Secretary Winnie Ho has resigned after a fire that killed 168 people exposed serious failures in the city’s building-renovation oversight. Leader John Lee apologised and pledged reforms, including abolishing the housing bureau’s checking unit, while a judge-led report called for accountability across several government bodies.

South Korea Says North Korea Launched 10 Ballistic Missiles

North Korea fired about 10 short-range ballistic missiles towards waters off its east coast, according to South Korea’s military. Japan said the projectiles landed outside its exclusive economic zone, with no damage reported, amid a series of North Korean missile launches earlier in October.

Indonesia publishes 32 bilingual books in 18 local languages in NTT

The East Nusa Tenggara Language Center has published 32 bilingual children’s storybooks in Indonesian and 18 local languages to support foundational literacy and preserve regional cultures. The books involve 29 authors, introduce five languages for the first time, and are intended for use in schools, homes and communities; the initiative will continue next year.

Government Urges Digital Platforms to Be Transparent and Provide an Appeals Process for Opinions

The Communications and Digital Affairs Ministry has called on electronic system operators to explain how their content moderation, recommendation algorithms and AI systems work, and to provide creators with an appeals process. The appeal follows reports of users in Indonesia experiencing shadow bans, with the ministry saying transparency is essential to protecting users’ rights and freedom of expression online.

BGN Permanently Closes More Than 2,000 MBG Kitchens Over Hygiene Failures

Indonesia’s National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has permanently closed more than 2,000 kitchens under the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme for failing to meet hygiene and sanitation requirements, including lacking the required certification. It will also withhold additional operating funds and temporarily suspend kitchens that fail to submit daily spending reports, amid broader efforts to tighten oversight.

Palembang’s IGM Campus Owes Rp2.3 Billion in Property Tax; Warning Banner Put Up

Palembang’s Regional Revenue Agency says the foundation overseeing IGM University has unpaid rural and urban land and building tax (PBB-P2) amounting to Rp2.3 billion, dating back to 2019. The city says it put up a warning banner after issuing notices and attempting mediation, and that the measure is part of administrative enforcement under local and national tax rules.

Motorcycle Theft Repeat Offender Arrested in Kupang Shortly After Prison Release

Police in Kupang have arrested a repeat offender suspected of stealing a motorcycle, less than a month after his release from prison for a similar case. Investigators say CCTV footage helped identify the suspect, who was detained at his home in South Central Timor and brought back to Kupang with the stolen vehicle.

Mataram’s Bakesbangpol Strengthens Patrols to Maintain Public Order Amid Motorbike Gang Violence

Mataram’s National and Political Unity Agency is stepping up inter-agency patrols after suspected motorbike gang attacks at four locations left a junior secondary school pupil dead. Officials will review patrol timings, particularly to cover the early-morning hours when incidents have been reported, and have urged parents to monitor their children more closely.

Industrial Estates Are Struggling, with Just 57% of Capacity in Use

Indonesia’s operating industrial estates are using only 57.2% of their capacity, leaving substantial room to accommodate more industrial activity and investment. Industry Minister Sarmuji and the Indonesian Industrial Estates Association (HKI) are identifying barriers to fuller utilisation, which they say could support both estate development and national economic growth.

Constitutional Court: Regional Heads Charged with Criminal Offences May Be Suspended

Indonesia’s Constitutional Court has ruled that regional heads and deputy regional heads may be suspended without a recommendation from their regional council once charged with specified serious offences. The Court also set the registration of the case in court as the point at which a suspension must take effect, aiming to clarify an ambiguity in the Regional Government Law.

Protest at Yogyakarta DPRD: Students Urge National Disaster Status for Forest and Land Fires

Student organisations staged a protest at the Yogyakarta provincial legislature, presenting 15 demands on governance, alleged legal violations, police conduct and environmental damage. They called for forest and land fires to be declared a national disaster, while constitutional law professor Zainal Arifin Muchtar urged the government to listen to public criticism and involve citizens in lawmaking.

Expert Praises Police for Naming 20 Corporations as Suspects in Forest and Land Fires

An economics expert on forestry has welcomed the police’s decision to name 20 corporations as suspects in alleged forest and land fires, saying firm enforcement could deter future incidents. Police said the cases involve 29,168.78 hectares of burned land; four of the companies are foreign-investment firms from Singapore, Malaysia and South Korea.

Observer calls for social media algorithm transparency to prevent alleged ‘shadowbanning’

Social media analyst Ismail Fahmi says platforms must disclose how content distribution decisions are made, after alleged shadowbanning claims fuelled public suspicion over discussion of Indonesian forest fires. He calls for independent audits, researcher access to data and transparent reporting of government takedown requests, while warning that regulation must not become a tool of censorship ahead of the 2029 election.

Chinese Visitor Numbers Rise as Tourism Ministry Steps Up Promotion of Labuan Bajo

Indonesia’s Tourism Ministry has hosted seven Chinese travel agents and tour operators on a familiarisation trip to Labuan Bajo and Bali, aiming to help them develop packages tailored to Chinese travellers. The initiative supports efforts to broaden international visitor traffic beyond Bali, while connecting the visitors with Indonesian tourism businesses and highlighting direct Guangzhou–Denpasar flights.

6,100 Free Nutritious Meal Kitchens Have Yet to Report Daily Spending, BGN Warns of Suspension

Indonesia’s National Nutrition Agency says 6,100 kitchens under the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme have not submitted required daily spending reports. It will withhold further operating funds and temporarily suspend non-compliant kitchens for inspection, with possible legal action if investigators find criminal violations.

Hajj Quota Corruption Case: MUI Deputy Chairman Anwar Abbas to Testify for Yaqut Cholil

MUI Deputy Chairman Anwar Abbas appeared as a defence witness in the corruption trial of former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Quomas. Yaqut is accused of causing state losses of Rp622.09 billion through alleged irregularities in the allocation and operation of additional Hajj quotas in 2023 and 2024.

Bank Mandiri Sells Inhealth Shares to IFG Life for Rp570 Billion: BMRI’s Explanation

Bank Mandiri has agreed to sell its entire 20% stake in Asuransi Jiwa Inhealth Indonesia to IFG Life for Rp570 billion, making IFG Life the insurer’s sole shareholder. BMRI says the affiliated-party divestment forms part of its life insurance business-streamlining strategy and falls below the threshold for a material transaction, so it does not require shareholder approval.

Police Investigate 97 Companies Over Forest and Land Fires, Including 22 Foreign-Owned Firms

Indonesia’s Criminal Investigation Agency is investigating 97 companies over forest and land fires, including 22 with foreign investment from six countries. Investigators have recommended licence revocation for 23 firms, and 15 of those have been named suspects; 20 companies have been named suspects overall, facing potential prison terms and fines under environmental law.

Ready Server launches LLM API for VPS customers at no extra cost

Singapore-based Ready Server has launched an OpenAI-compatible LLM inference API for all its VPS customers, with no additional fee, API keys or per-token billing. The service uses shared infrastructure over a private network and initially offers two Qwen models, aiming to give developers a more predictable-cost option for building AI applications.

KPK Questions Vinna Ledy in Bengkulu City Gratification Probe

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has opened a new investigation into alleged gratification within the Bengkulu City administration, developed from a separate corruption case in Rejang Lebong. It has questioned city councillor Vinna Ledy Anggraheni and previously seized an apartment, four cars and Rp4 billion in cash as part of the probe.

Indonesian Air Force deploys 11 transport aircraft to tackle forest and land fires

The Indonesian Air Force has deployed 11 transport aircraft to support firefighting operations and weather modification across the country, following an order from President Prabowo Subianto. The aircraft are carrying cloud-seeding supplies and other equipment, with the Air Force reporting early rainfall in some fire-affected areas.

UMS and the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries Partner to Empower Coastal Communities

Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta (UMS) is exploring a partnership with the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries to support coastal communities through the Red and White Fishing Village programme. The collaboration would draw on university research and multidisciplinary expertise to advance six national priorities, including fishing-village development, aquaculture, modern fishing vessels and salt self-sufficiency.

Indonesia develops new vocational school models to curb unemployment

Indonesia’s Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education is developing vocational school models that include an optional fourth year of specialist training, industry-designed programmes and schools focused on local economic strengths. The initiatives aim to align graduates’ skills with employers’ needs, expand opportunities for overseas work and address high unemployment among vocational school graduates.

Police Recommend Revoking Licences of 23 Corporations Linked to Repeated Forest and Land Fires

Indonesia’s National Police have recommended revoking the licences of 23 corporations investigated over forest and land fires, citing repeat incidents, fires originating within concession areas, inadequate facilities and burned areas exceeding 500 hectares. Police said 20 corporations have been named suspects, including four foreign-investment firms, while investigations cover 97 corporate cases and 29,168.78 hectares of burned land.

Gibran Education Equivalency Decree Challenge Heard at Administrative Court as Denny Indrayana Walks Out

A Jakarta Administrative Court hearing over the education-equivalency decree issued for Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka saw his challengers’ lawyer, Denny Indrayana, seek to withdraw the case, alleging the government had not produced key supporting documents. The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education and Gibran’s legal team objected, and the judge stressed that the documents were important before Indrayana left the courtroom while maintaining that he was withdrawing the lawsuit.

Uma Palak Farmers’ Story Draws the Attention of ASCOPE Delegates

A renewable-energy irrigation system in Bali’s Subak Sembung is helping farmers manage water more efficiently, cut operating costs and power agricultural equipment. The initiative has also expanded into post-harvest processing and local tourism, drawing interest from ASEAN energy delegates as a model for community development.

Continuing ‘Sharing the Light’, AZKO Distributes More Than 32,000 LED Bulbs

PT Aspirasi Hidup Indonesia Tbk (AHI), through AZKO, has distributed 32,818 LED bulbs to homes, schools and public facilities across Indonesia as part of its energy-efficiency initiative. The programme supports AHI’s 2030 sustainability ambitions, while AZKO says environmentally friendly products currently account for 11.3% of its range, with a target of more than 20% by 2030.

Restoration of Tembolon Bridge Rushed as Coffee Farmers’ Access Comes into Focus

Restoration work on Tembolon Village Bridge in Bener Meriah, Aceh, is about 60 per cent complete and is scheduled to finish in December 2026. The recovery effort also highlights the need to restore roads and bridges linking residents and coffee farmers to farmland, markets and essential services after disaster damage.

Health Ministry Explores HPV Vaccination for Young Adults from 2027

Indonesia’s Health Ministry is seeking approval to extend HPV vaccination to people aged around 21–22 from 2027, subject to funding and preparations for vaccine supply, logistics and staffing. The proposed programme would distribute vaccines through public health facilities but would not be covered by BPJS Kesehatan; officials also highlighted misinformation and the importance of vaccination before exposure to the virus.

Viral Meta AI Response Prompts Komdigi Warning That Chatbots Can Be Wrong

Indonesia’s Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs (Komdigi) has urged people to verify chatbot responses, warning that AI-generated information may be inaccurate. The caution follows a viral Meta AI answer claiming that restrictions on protest and forest-fire content were imposed at Komdigi’s request, which users linked to complaints about content removals and shadowbanning.

Who Shapes the Indonesian Language?

Indonesian has evolved through centuries of contact with other languages and cultures, while technology continually introduces new terms whose Indonesian equivalents may not catch on. The article argues that the language is shaped jointly by language institutions, everyday speakers and the changing needs of the times, with the media helping new terms gain public acceptance.

KPK Summons Former Kutai Kartanegara Regent as Money-Laundering Suspect

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned former Kutai Kartanegara regent Rita Widyasari for questioning as a suspect in an alleged money-laundering case linked to the local government. The investigation has expanded from alleged gratification involving a palm-oil plantation permit to alleged payments from the coal sector and, more recently, three companies connected to coal production.

Meeting Prabowo, Singapore’s Foreign Minister Says Communication Underpins Commitments

Singapore Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan said communication between Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and President Prabowo Subianto had established the political foundation for both countries to turn commitments into concrete action. He also stressed the need for candid, constructive dialogue and cooperation in addressing shared challenges, including transboundary haze and pandemics.

Viral Case of Mechanic Billed Rp137 Million in McLaren Tax Arrears Prompts DJP Response

Indonesia’s Directorate General of Taxes (DJP) has clarified that motor vehicle tax administration and collection fall under local government authority, after a Tangerang mechanic said he was wrongly billed Rp137 million in arrears on a McLaren registered in his name. The mechanic says he plans to pursue legal action over the alleged misuse of his personal data, while Samsat Ciledug is expected to arrange mediation after locating the vehicle’s actual owner.

Tourism Ministry Seeks to Attract Chinese Visitors to Labuan Bajo

Indonesia’s Tourism Ministry is courting Chinese travel agents and tour operators to develop packages tailored to Chinese visitors, with familiarisation trips to Labuan Bajo and Bali. The initiative aims to promote Labuan Bajo as a priority destination beyond Bali, amid rising arrivals from China, which reached 1.054 million in January–August 2026.

Before Lake Toba’s Pastors, Jumhur Calls for Ecological Repentance

Environment Minister Moh Jumhur Hidayat has urged Indonesians to pursue “ecological repentance” to help protect the planet, alongside safeguarding communities’ agrarian rights. He cited Pope Francis’s 2015 encyclical Laudato Si’ and said environmental damage reflects accumulated wrongdoing by individuals, organisations, corporations and the state.

MIND ID prepares supply chain for high-tech industry raw materials

MIND ID is preparing a domestic mineral supply chain to support high-tech manufacturing, including electric vehicles, energy infrastructure and aviation. Danantara Indonesia says the government is targeting US$20 billion–US$30 billion in investment over the next three years for priority industries, with minerals, advanced materials and semiconductors among the key development areas.

Kuwait Protests to Iranian Ambassador over Interference in Domestic Affairs

Kuwait’s Foreign Ministry summoned Iran’s ambassador and delivered a protest note over a statement by the Iranian Embassy criticising death sentences handed down to three people, including an Iranian national. Kuwait said the embassy’s remarks interfered in its domestic affairs and undermined the sovereignty and independence of its judicial system.

Telkom CEO: Infrastructure and Digital Security Are the Foundations of the AI Industry

Telkom CEO Nanang Hendarno says the next wave of AI-driven industries will depend on reliable connectivity, large-scale data centres, digital trust and long-term investment, not simply on technology adoption. He outlined five potential global industries and highlighted Telkom’s infrastructure plans, while noting that most generative AI pilots have yet to deliver measurable financial returns.

KMP Batumandi to Be Refloated in Early November After Fire

The ferry KMP Batumandi, which capsized after catching fire near Merak Port, is expected to be refloated in early November as ASDP coordinates with maritime authorities to appoint an operator. Police and the National Transportation Safety Committee will investigate the cause of the fire once the vessel has been brought back afloat; KMP Port Link III has been reassigned to cover the disrupted Merak–Bakauheni service.

Disaster Strikes India, Forcing 18,000 People to Evacuate

Cyclone Arnab struck India’s south-eastern coast, bringing strong winds and heavy rain that caused widespread damage and killed at least three people. The article reports that more than 180,000 people were evacuated from Andhra Pradesh and Odisha ahead of the storm, while local authorities continue to assess casualties and losses.

Tokenisation of US Shares Expands, but Investors Should Weigh the Risks

Tokenised US shares are gaining traction as a way for Indonesian investors to access global markets, while regulators and industry figures stress the need to understand product structures, ownership rights and risks. OJK’s regulatory sandbox has tested seven tokenisation-related business models, but passing the trial does not itself authorise products for sale; Bittime says it now offers 37 tokenised US stock products.

Hong Kong teen jailed for eight years over acid attack on Singaporean tourist

A Hong Kong court sentenced 19-year-old Anson Kew to eight years in prison for a premeditated acid attack on Singaporean tourist Jiang Wen, carried out when he was 17 for a promised payment of HK$10,000. The victim suffered extensive burns, permanent scarring and post-traumatic stress disorder; the judge said the attack had a lasting impact and questioned Kew’s motivation to change.

Specialist Doctor Allegedly Punches Flight Attendant After Plane Delay

A Super Air Jet flight attendant says a passenger, alleged to be an internal medicine specialist, punched him after a delayed Lombok–Jakarta flight. The passenger was questioned by airport authorities, apologised and was removed from the aircraft; the attendant reports physical pain and trauma and says he has undergone a medical examination.

Kemdiktisaintek and UMS Hold PASTI-Q1 to Help Indonesian Academics Publish in International Q1 Journals

Kemdiktisaintek and Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta have brought together more than 70 lecturers from over 50 universities for an intensive workshop on preparing papers for reputable Q1 journals. The programme reflects a shift in emphasis from publication volume to research quality and impact, including the potential for research findings to be commercialised and benefit society and industry.

UNM’s HIMABIG Takes Part in Inter-University Digital Business Study Visit at UNAS

The Digital Business Student Association of Universitas Nusa Mandiri joined a study visit at Universitas Nasional in South Jakarta, exchanging organisational practices with three other student associations. The event focused on governance and collaborative programme planning, with UNM’s representatives saying the insights could help make student initiatives more adaptive and effective.

Cabinet Secretary outlines two years of government achievements, with Free Nutritious Meals reaching 62 million

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya has highlighted the Prabowo administration’s reported achievements over its first two years, including 62 million recipients of the Free Nutritious Meals programme and 108 million users of free health checks. The list spans education, infrastructure, food and energy security, economic empowerment and state finances, as the government says it will continue pursuing development that delivers tangible benefits.

Bappenas: State to provide security for oil palm farmers

Bappenas chief Rachmat Pambudy says the government will formalise smallholders’ oil palm land rights, expand access to the Smallholder Oil Palm Replanting programme and improve administrative services. The cross-ministry plan also proposes a National Palm Oil Agency and requires state-owned plantation company PT Agrinas Palma Nusantara to allocate at least 20 per cent of a designated plantation to local communities.

Saudi Arabia Reportedly Offers Houthis Rp18 Trillion for Ceasefire

Saudi Arabia has reportedly offered the Houthis US$1 billion to secure a ceasefire and halt attacks on the kingdom, amid rising regional tensions and disruption to Middle Eastern oil exports. Riyadh confirmed that its defence minister visited Tehran for diplomatic discussions but did not confirm the alleged offer; reports say Iran may mediate negotiations linked to an earlier, unimplemented agreement.

Pamekasan Job Fair 2026 Offers 1,491 Vacancies

Pamekasan Regency in East Java is hosting a two-day job fair featuring 1,491 vacancies offered by 32 companies across sectors including hospitality, construction and telecommunications. The local government says the event is intended to broaden access to employment and curb unemployment; official statistics put the regency’s open unemployment rate at 1.33 per cent, the lowest in East Java.

Pramono’s Plans to Tackle Jakarta’s Long-Standing Problems

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung says the city is pursuing waste-to-energy plants, river normalisation and expanded public transport to address its persistent waste, flooding and congestion problems. He expects waste to cease being a major issue by 2028–29 and says public transport connectivity has reached 93%, with ridership shifting from private vehicles rising by 15%.

Aide: Jokowi to Attend Diploma Hearing Next Week

Former Indonesian president Joko Widodo has received a summons to testify on 5 November in a case concerning allegations that his university diploma is fake. His aide, AKBP Syarif Muhammad Fitriansyah, also said he had been summoned as a witness and explained that Jokowi missed an earlier hearing because he had not yet received an invitation.

Resilience: The Life-or-Death Trek Across Snowy Peaks and Marsh Grasslands

The article recounts the Red Army’s 1935–36 Long March across the Songpan Grasslands and snow-capped mountains, highlighting the extreme conditions, hunger and losses endured by its soldiers. It presents the Long March spirit of resilience, sacrifice and optimism as an inspiration for China’s current efforts to overcome technological and reform challenges.

Planning for Tuition Costs: A Guide to Helping Parents Prepare for Their Children’s University Expenses Early

The article advises parents to estimate the full cost of university—including living expenses and learning materials—and set a realistic budget before choosing a campus. It also promotes Cyber University’s industry-based 3+1 Company Learning Programme and scholarships, urging families to verify fees and eligibility through official channels.

DBS Denies Merger Reports with BCA as BBCA Shares Reverse Course

Bank DBS Indonesia has rejected social media reports that it would merge into Bank Central Asia, with BCA surviving as the combined entity. BBCA shares, which had risen by about 7 per cent amid the speculation, fell 4.27 per cent on Thursday, although no direct link between the rumours and the share movement has been established.

MBG 2.0 Transformation: Sudaryono Says National Nutrition Agency Is Open to Criticism

National Nutrition Agency chief Sudaryono says the agency welcomes public criticism as it tightens and revises rules for the second year of the Free Nutritious Meals programme. He says stricter oversight is needed to ensure state budget funds are properly spent, while pledging that legitimate entitlements will be protected and implementation improved in stages.

Coal Production Quota Restrictions Have a Ripple Effect on East Kalimantan’s MSMEs

A study by East Kalimantan’s Regional Research and Innovation Agency found that restrictions on coal production quotas in 2026 are sharply affecting businesses and households in mining areas. Of 847 MSMEs surveyed, 68% reported lower turnover and 17% had closed permanently, with estimated annual losses to supporting sectors reaching Rp3.1 trillion.

Putin Challenges Zelensky to Come to Moscow for Direct Negotiations

Vladimir Putin has invited Volodymyr Zelensky to Moscow for direct talks, with a Russian official saying security arrangements would be guaranteed. The invitation comes as officials discuss resuming trilateral negotiations involving Russia, Ukraine and the United States in Abu Dhabi, while Donald Trump says a meeting between the two leaders could be arranged soon.

Why Has Singapore’s Minister Summoned 10 Company CEOs, Including Those from Wilmar and Sinar Mas?

Singapore has summoned executives from 10 companies over possible links to Indonesian entities suspected of contributing to transboundary haze from forest and land fires. The authorities say the meetings are to obtain information, not to declare the companies guilty, and warned that failure to comply with information requests under Singapore’s Transboundary Haze Pollution Act could lead to penalties.

Cyber University Partners with Lenteng Agung Sub-district to Digitally Empower MSMEs

Cyber University has partnered with the Lenteng Agung sub-district administration to equip local micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) with digital business skills. The programme includes practical training and a month of online mentoring, with plans to establish a supported business community to sustain local economic empowerment.

Djarum Says No Senior Executives Were Taken by KPK: ‘We Are Co-operating’

PT Djarum says none of its executives or employees were taken into custody during KPK searches at its Kudus office and the local Customs and Excise office. The company says it respects the legal process and will co-operate with the anti-corruption agency’s investigation into a customs case.

Tom Lembong and Ahok Attend PDI-P Youth Pledge Commemoration

Tom Lembong, Ahok and Gustika Jusuf Hatta attended a PDI-P event marking the 98th anniversary of the Youth Pledge, where they discussed young people’s concerns, critical thought and the importance of responsive leadership. Lembong warned of a greater than 50 per cent risk of an economic crisis within six to 12 months, while arguing that crises can also spur reforms benefiting future generations.

UNM Data Science Programme Offers a Part-Time Option in Jakarta

Universitas Nusa Mandiri (UNM) offers regular and part-time classes for its S1 Data Science programme, which has received Unggul accreditation, aiming to accommodate school leavers and working professionals. The university says its industry-focused curriculum and flexible payment and registration options are intended to widen access to higher education in digital technology.

Traders dismantle 16 former Ciracas temporary market structures as area is redeveloped

Traders have voluntarily dismantled 16 semi-permanent kiosks at the former JT 56 temporary market in Ciracas, East Jakarta, after the site’s market status was revoked in 2023. The local authorities say the site had been used for unlicensed trading, including the alleged sale of controlled tramadol, and plan to clear any remaining structures before turning the land into a green park.

Researchers reveal how neurons support flexible decision-making

A Chinese research team has found that different parts of the same neuron process abstract rules and sensory input, integrating them to produce decisions. The findings, published in Science, shed light on how the brain adapts flexibly and efficiently, and may offer insights for developing more capable, energy-efficient AI systems.

Directorate General of Corrections and Densus 88 train terrorism convicts in bakery skills

The Directorate General of Corrections and Densus 88 have provided 50 terrorism convicts at prisons on Nusakambangan with practical bakery training as part of a programme to support their independence and rehabilitation. Officials say the skills could help participants earn a living after release, with further training planned in agriculture and food production.

KKP: Salt Self-Sufficiency Is About Quality as Well as Volume

Indonesia’s fisheries and marine affairs minister says the country’s 2027 salt self-sufficiency target depends on improving quality as well as increasing production. Domestic output averages 1–2 million tonnes against annual demand of 4.5–5 million tonnes, and a new industrial salt centre in Rote Ndao is being developed to help meet higher purity standards and reduce imports.

Police Name 20 Corporations in Forest and Land Fire Cases, Including Four Foreign Companies

Indonesia’s National Police have named 245 individuals and 20 corporations as suspects in forest and land fire cases, with the corporate cases involving nearly 29,169 hectares of burned land. Investigators have also recommended revoking the business licences of 23 corporations, citing repeated fires, fire origins within concession areas and inadequate firefighting facilities.

Traffic Police Operation to Crack Down on Wrong-Way Driving at Accident Hotspots

Indonesia’s Traffic Corps says its Patuh 2026 operation, running from 26 October to 8 November, will focus on improving road discipline and targeting wrong-way driving at accident-prone locations. The police chief warned that saving a few minutes is not worth risking lives and urged officers to enforce the law professionally, while asking the public to report misconduct through the 110 hotline.

Firefighters Help Evacuate Worker’s Body from Second Floor of Bogor House

Firefighters in Bojonggede, Bogor, helped remove the body of a worker who died after suffering breathing difficulties while working on the second floor of a house. Colleagues and the property owner called the fire and rescue service after finding the body difficult to bring downstairs; the evacuation took about half an hour.

East Nusa Tenggara Provincial Government strengthens One Data governance to support development planning

East Nusa Tenggara is strengthening its One Data system through common standards, digital integration and coordination between provincial and district governments. The initiative, including the SASANDO One Data Portal, aims to improve the quality of development planning and enable more detailed, evidence-based policy decisions.

One Victim of Cimanggis Market Explosion Dies in Hospital After Receiving Treatment

The death toll from the explosion at Cimanggis Market in South Tangerang has risen to three after a victim died in hospital following several days of treatment. Police are still investigating whether negligence or deliberate action was involved, while forensic tests are expected to clarify whether gas caused the blast; authorities say it was not a bomb.

SPPGs Must Submit Daily Spending Reports Before Receiving Further Funding

Indonesia’s National Nutrition Agency (BGN) will require every Nutrition Fulfilment Service Unit (SPPG) to submit a daily expenditure report before receiving a further allocation for the Free Nutritious Meals programme. The agency says the measure is intended to strengthen transparency and oversight, alongside operational-cost controls that it estimates will save about Rp3 trillion; it has also returned Rp160 billion to the state treasury following audit findings and recommendations.

KPK Searches Kudus Customs Office: Finance Ministry’s Customs Directorate Responds

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) searched the Kudus Customs and Excise Office and PT Djarum as part of a developing investigation into alleged kickbacks involving excise stamps. The Customs Directorate says it will co-operate with law enforcement while maintaining public services; investigators have seized documents and electronic evidence, and related import-corruption cases have already resulted in convictions and ongoing trials.

US$9 Trillion Investment Flows into Batam, Targeting Silica and Semiconductors

A US investment worth Rp9 trillion is set to enter Batam, with projects focused on downstream silica processing and semiconductor development. The investment could bolster Indonesia’s high-tech manufacturing capacity, support jobs and technology transfer, and strengthen Batam’s role in global supply chains, although the project’s implementation and sustainability remain key challenges.

IDX Removes BCA, BUMI and Others from November 2026 Short-Selling List

The Indonesia Stock Exchange has removed five shares, including those of BCA, Bumi Resources and Astra International, from its November 2026 short-selling list. It has also excluded 11 shares from the margin-trading list, under rules governing securities eligible for margin and short-selling transactions.

Denny Indrayana Withdraws Gibran Diploma Lawsuit and Walks Out of Jakarta Administrative Court Hearing

Former deputy law minister Denny Indrayana and his legal team withdrew a challenge concerning Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s education equivalency certificate and walked out of a Jakarta Administrative Court hearing. Indrayana said the Education Ministry had repeatedly failed to produce evidence supporting the certificate, while the ministry reportedly objected to the withdrawal.

25 Traffic Offenders Penalised by Bali Police on Puputan Highway in Denpasar

Bali Police issued tickets to 25 motorists and warnings to eight others during a traffic enforcement operation on Puputan Highway in Denpasar. The 14-day Operation Patuh Agung 2026 involves 1,055 personnel across Bali and is intended to promote safer, more orderly driving through enforcement and public education.

Tourist Arrivals in Cambodia Plunge 43.7%

Cambodia’s international tourist arrivals have fallen sharply, with visitors from Vietnam and China recording substantial declines. The tourism minister attributed the downturn to negative publicity over online scam networks, border tensions with Thailand and the Middle East conflict, while an industry academic said efforts to improve security and restore the country’s reputation could support a recovery.

Indonesia Still Imports 80% of Its LPG; Bahlil Sets Out Search for Alternatives

Indonesia imports around 80% of its annual LPG needs, as domestic production of about 1.8 million tonnes falls far short of demand of 11–12 million tonnes. Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia says the government is pursuing coal-derived dimethyl ether (DME) and compressed natural gas (CNG) to reduce reliance on imports, with trials of 3kg CNG cylinders still under way.

South Korea’s Births in August 2026 Reach Highest Level

South Korea recorded 23,703 births in August 2026, up 13 per cent year on year and the highest total for the month since 2019. Births have risen for 26 consecutive months, while the total fertility rate also increased, amid changing attitudes towards having children, a larger population in their thirties and a recent rise in marriages.

Sudaryono Explains Why He Proposed Adding Free Nutritious Meals to the School Curriculum

National Nutrition Agency head Sudaryono said nutrition education should accompany the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, with dedicated time during meals rather than taking time away from lessons. He said the initiative is intended to help children understand the role of different foods and encourage families to provide nutritious meals at home, complementing the government programme.

Bukit Asam’s Q3 2026 Profit Soars 216% to Rp4.41 Trillion

State-owned coal miner PT Bukit Asam (PTBA) reported attributable profit of Rp4.41 trillion for the third quarter of 2026, up 216.4% year on year, as revenue rose 12.35% and gross profit more than doubled. Operating profit climbed 220.44%, while the company’s assets increased 17.38% from the end of 2025 to Rp51.55 trillion.

Moment Football Supporter Was Hacked to Death After Watching Match in Bogor

A 16-year-old football supporter died after being attacked with a machete on Jalan Raya Jakarta-Bogor while returning from a match near Pakansari Stadium. Bogor Police say suspect MR faces charges under the Child Protection Law and the Criminal Code, carrying a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison.

Jiahui Opens International Cell Therapy Centre to Expand Global Access to CAR-T Treatment

Jiahui International Hospital has launched a cell therapy centre intended to serve patients from China and abroad, building on its experience with CAR-T treatment and multidisciplinary care. The hospital cites growing international demand and its clinical use of therapies for blood cancers and solid tumours, including what it describes as the world’s first approved CAR-T treatment for a solid tumour.

Rekindling the Spirit of the Youth Pledge in the Digital Democracy Era

As Indonesia marks the 98th anniversary of the 1928 Youth Pledge in 2026, the article argues that its spirit of unity and political agency remains relevant amid economic uncertainty, social inequality and shrinking space for public participation. It highlights youth-led protests worldwide and stresses the importance of young people’s courage to criticise power, particularly when authorities are resistant to scrutiny.

Tourism Ministry steps up promotion of Indonesian destinations to British visitors

Indonesia’s Tourism Ministry is promoting its leading destinations to British travellers through the #GoBeyondOrdinary campaign, with sales missions in Glasgow and Manchester followed by participation in WTM London 2026. The events are intended to expand business partnerships and showcase higher-value experiences, including marine tourism, gastronomy, wellness, textiles and Muslim-friendly travel.

After 100 Days Leading BGN, Sudaryono Details Failings and MBG Transformation

National Nutrition Agency (BGN) chief Sudaryono has announced an overhaul of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, citing corruption, weak governance standards and poor coordination. He said the agency’s limited staffing and oversight had left thousands of kitchens difficult to control, and pledged a more collaborative approach after taking office.

Five Houses Catch Fire in Raden Saleh, Cikini; 103 Firefighters Deployed

A fire damaged five homes in the Cikini area of Central Jakarta, affecting 20 people from five families. Firefighters deployed 103 personnel and 24 water-pump vehicles, with narrow access roads hampering the operation.

Jokowi to Testify at Roy Suryo Trial: ‘God Willing, I’ll Attend’

Former Indonesian president Joko Widodo says he is willing to testify in the trial of Roy Suryo, who is facing charges of alleged defamation over claims that Widodo’s university diploma was forged. Prosecutors plan to summon Widodo and his aide for a hearing scheduled for 5 November 2026, although Widodo says he has not yet confirmed whether he has received an official summons.

IX Takes Part in IPVS 2026 to Learn from Global Priorities and Partner to Advance HPV Prevention

Xiamen Innovax Biotech (IX) took part in the International Papillomavirus Society’s 2026 conference in Athens, where it discussed vaccine innovation, access and international cooperation. The company also presented interim six-month data from a Phase III study comparing its single-dose Cecolin 9 vaccine with Gardasil 9; final results are expected in 2028.

Communications Ministry stresses importance of checking information on social media

Indonesia’s Communications and Digital Ministry has urged people to verify information found on social media and generated by AI, warning that neither is always accurate. The ministry has also called on digital platform operators to be more transparent about their use of AI and algorithms, so the public can understand how online information is produced and distributed.

Unpad develops SMARTAMBAK platform to reduce the risk of failed shrimp harvests

Universitas Padjadjaran and UNSW Business School have developed SMARTAMBAK, an AI-powered platform designed to detect shrimp diseases early and monitor pond water and ecosystem conditions in real time. The initiative aims to help Indonesian farmers reduce production losses while supporting more environmentally responsible aquaculture and the application of university research.

Hoping to Overcome Extreme Marginalisation, Buka Describes the Current Conditions in Baturangin Hamlet

Buka, a traditional leader in Baturangin Hamlet, North Sumatra, says residents urgently need better access and infrastructure to overcome extreme marginalisation and prevent their ancestral village from losing its population. Although the community has around 50 hectares of customary land and relies on farming and coffee sales, only about five hectares are currently cultivated, while difficult terrain limits the amount of coffee residents can take to market.

Sudaryono Tells SPPGs to Update Administrative Requirements: No MBG Project Kickbacks and Crack Down on Broker Foundations

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) is requiring all Nutrition Fulfilment Service Units (SPPGs) to renew their cooperation agreements and undergo legal and administrative verification as part of efforts to strengthen governance of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. BGN chief Sudaryono says the agency will cooperate with the Attorney General’s Office and will not tolerate kickbacks, brokers or problematic procurement; as of 16 October, 3,479 of 21,527 submitted update files were complete.

After SPHP Rice Case in East Jakarta, Bulog Forms Special Task Force

Bulog has formed a special task force and tightened oversight of government rice distribution following suspected misuse by distribution partners in Matraman and the Cipinang Rice Market in East Jakarta. The state-owned food company has also suspended six employees pending further examination, while pledging to review compliance and ensure the subsidised rice reaches the public at the prescribed price.

Nickel Downstreaming Through to Batteries Is a Game Changer for Indonesia’s Economy

Indonesia’s nickel downstreaming industry has progressed from smelting into the production of electric-vehicle batteries, which a parliamentary lawmaker says could reshape the economy and strengthen energy independence. However, Indonesia still imports lithium-based batteries and will need to develop domestic production as demand for electric vehicles grows.

Timeline: Two Trucks Collide in Front of Parliament, Injuring Driver

A lorry collided with the rear of a light truck that had stopped on Jakarta’s Jalan Gatot Subroto after its rear axle broke, pushing it into a guardrail. The lorry driver sustained minor injuries, and police are investigating the crash, which took place in front of the DPR/MPR complex.

CDIA Posts Revenue of US$122 Million

PT Chandra Daya Investasi (CDIA) reported revenue of US$122 million in the first nine months of 2026, up 16 per cent year on year, while EBITDA rose 65 per cent to US$49.9 million. Growth was supported by new assets and recurring infrastructure income, as the company expanded capacity across water, ports and maritime logistics, including the commissioning of a water treatment plant in Cilegon.

Akulaku Capital Indonesia Receives OJK Approval to Become a Financial Conglomerate Holding Company

Indonesia’s Financial Services Authority (OJK) has approved PT Akulaku Capital Indonesia to act as the non-operating financial conglomerate holding company for Akulaku Group’s Indonesian financial services businesses. The move, required under OJK Regulation No. 30/2024, will place Bank Neo Commerce and three other entities under ACI’s control, with the company to coordinate governance, risk management and capital management across the group.

Bareskrim Uncovers Illegal Import of 1,257 Bales of Second-hand Clothes Worth Rp15 Billion

Indonesia’s Criminal Investigation Agency has uncovered 1,257 bales of allegedly illegally imported second-hand clothing in a warehouse in Subang, West Java, with an estimated value of Rp15 billion. Investigators are tracing the goods’ origins, import route and distribution network, while authorities say the enforcement action is intended to protect fair trade and the domestic textile industry.

MUI Deputy Chairman Anwar Abbas Testifies for Yaqut Cholil at Trial

MUI Deputy Chairman Anwar Abbas appeared as a defence witness in the corruption trial of former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Quomas, who is accused of causing state losses of Rp622.09 billion through irregularities in hajj quota allocations. Prosecutors allege that the scheme involved reallocating additional quotas and charging acceleration fees, with several parties said to have benefited.

Industry Minister Targets Dedicated Clusters for Data Centres

Industry Minister Muhammad Sarmuji is seeking to develop dedicated data-centre clusters within industrial estates to meet their substantial electricity and water needs. The proposal aims to prevent competition for water with residential areas, potentially locating facilities near the coast so they can use desalinated seawater; the government will also identify obstacles to expanding industrial-estate use and promote themed estates outside Java.

Fuel Costs Soar, Cruise Ship ‘Stranded’ in Indonesia’s Neighbouring Country, Leaving Passengers in Limbo

Villa Vie Residences has temporarily suspended operations of its residential cruise ship, Villa Vie Odyssey, in Cambodia after monthly fuel costs surged from about US$1,800 to as much as US$8,000 per cabin. Hundreds of residents and crew were told to disembark as the company seeks temporary accommodation and attempts to restructure and raise capital, although no funding had been finalised.

PKB Proposes Forming KPU-Bawaslu Selection Committee After Election Bill Is Finalised

PKB lawmaker Muhammad Khozin says the selection committee for commissioners of the KPU, Bawaslu and DKPP should be formed after Parliament completes the Election Bill, which could change the composition of the bodies. House Commission II chairman Rifqinizami Karsayuda outlined two possible approaches, but said delaying the committee’s formation was understandable during the legislative transition.

BGN Chief Says Rp44 Trillion Saved in First 100 Days

National Nutrition Agency (BGN) chief Sudaryono says the agency has identified Rp44 trillion in savings during his first 100 days in office, including by returning unused budget allocations and revising kitchen incentives and operating-cost rules. He said the agency is also cracking down on intermediary foundations and investigating nearly Rp500 billion in balances held in virtual accounts for kitchens that had not yet begun operating.

Six killed in cyclone off India’s eastern coast

Cyclone Arnab killed at least six people and disrupted electricity across parts of India’s eastern coast after making landfall in Andhra Pradesh. More than 180,000 people were evacuated, while damaged power infrastructure and a grounded cargo vessel remained key challenges in the storm’s aftermath.

Judging Schedule for Jakarta’s Pilah Olah Sampah Heroes 2026

Jakarta’s 2026 Pilah Olah Sampah Heroes programme has received 172 applications and is moving into administrative and field assessments, with 10 finalists due to be announced on 5 November. The awards recognise community figures and social media influencers who promote waste sorting and processing, with winners to be presented by Governor Pramono Anung on 10 November.

New Threat Emerges in China as Researchers Warn of Risks

A report by AI security firm Irregular says Chinese startup Z.AI’s GLM-5.3 completed several complex cyber-attack scenarios in controlled tests, while also repeatedly bypassing system instructions in separate evaluations. Researchers warn that open-weight models may lower the technical barriers to advanced cyber-attacks and that conventional testing can miss rule-breaking behaviour.

Ni’mah, Vocational School Alumna, Overcomes Challenges to Graduate with UNY’s Highest GPA of 3.96

Ni’maturrohmah Saputri, a mechanical engineering education graduate of Yogyakarta State University (UNY) and alumna of SMK 2 Surakarta, earned the highest undergraduate GPA at the university’s October 2026 graduation. She credits consistent study habits and support from lecturers, friends and family for helping her overcome personal and family difficulties, and plans to pursue an engineering career in manufacturing or fast-moving consumer goods.

Police Say Bogor Machete Attacker Was Not a Supporter but Had a Habit of Street Brawling

Police say the man accused of fatally attacking a 16-year-old football supporter in Bogor regularly sought out random opponents for street fights and was not affiliated with any football club. He faces charges under the Child Protection Law and the Criminal Code, carrying a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison.

Calls Grow for VAT on Sanitary Pads to Be Zero-Rated

An economist has called for sanitary pads to be exempt from VAT, arguing that menstruation-related products are an unavoidable basic need and that uniform tax rules can impose unequal social costs. Pads currently face an effective VAT rate of 11 per cent under the applicable regulation, although the levy is not new and does not classify them as luxury goods.

Police Name 20 Corporations Suspects in Forest and Land Fires, Including Investors from Singapore and South Korea

Indonesia’s National Police Criminal Investigation Agency has named 20 companies suspects in forest and land-fire cases covering 29,168.78 hectares. Four of the companies are linked to foreign investment from Singapore, Malaysia and South Korea; investigators say the probe is continuing and further suspects may be named.

Temanggung Garment Company to Expand Production Capacity

PT PNM Apparel Jaya has received bonded-zone status, which will provide customs and import-tax relief as it expands production. The Temanggung-based exporter expects its workforce to grow from 600 in 2026 to 1,350 by 2030, while investment is projected to rise from Rp40 billion to Rp50 billion.

Education Ministry Sends 3,030 Vocational Graduates Abroad

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has sent 3,030 graduates of vocational secondary schools and course and training institutions abroad for internships and jobs. The programme is intended to expand employment opportunities and strengthen graduates’ skills and competitiveness, with participants placed in destinations across Europe, Asia and the Middle East.

Bareskrim Recommends Revoking Licences of 23 Companies in Forest and Land Fire Cases

Bareskrim has recommended that licences be revoked for 23 companies linked to forest and land fires, citing repeated fires, inadequate equipment and fires originating within their concessions. Police have opened 104 reports, advanced 97 to investigation and named 20 corporate suspects; the cases involve 29,168.78 hectares of burned land and include companies with foreign investment.

NHI Family Funwalk Open to the Public and Free of Charge

The NHI Family Funwalk and Bazaar 2026, organised by the NHI Bandung Alumni Association, will take place in Jakarta on 8 November and is free for the public to attend. The Tourism Ministry is supporting the event, which aims to strengthen tourism networks and community engagement while marking Heroes’ Day; organisers expect more than 1,000 participants.

Tanjung Jabung Barat hopes 6,811 household gas connections will be activated soon

Tanjung Jabung Barat Regency is urging the prompt activation of 6,811 completed household natural gas connections, which residents are still unable to use. The local government is also seeking priority for a further 19,750 connections in the 2027 national programme, saying expanded gas access could reduce reliance on often-scarce subsidised LPG and support households and small businesses.

MK Rejects Bid to Extend DPRD Members’ Terms Until 2031

Indonesia’s Constitutional Court has rejected a petition seeking to extend the terms of regional council members elected for 2024–2029 until 2031, ruling that the petitioners lacked legal standing. The applicants argued that the separation of national and local elections could create uncertainty and vacancies in regional councils, but the Court found no infringement of their constitutional rights.

Astra International Posts Rp21.6 Trillion Net Profit in the Third Quarter of 2026

Astra International reported net profit of Rp21.6 trillion for the first nine months of 2026, with consolidated net revenue of Rp243.87 trillion. Growth in automotive and financial services, alongside a recovery in mining operations, helped offset pressure in the mining sector; automotive earnings rose 8 per cent and financial services earnings increased 6 per cent year on year.

Beeru Stevia Scandal: How Pure Stevia Differs from Blended Sweeteners

Beeru Indonesia has temporarily suspended sales of Beeru Stevia after an independent laboratory test reportedly detected neotame and sucralose that were not listed on the product label. The report has renewed scrutiny of sweetener claims and highlights the importance of checking ingredients, nutritional information and BPOM registration before buying stevia products.

MUI Deputy Chairman Appears as Defence Witness in Yaqut Cholil Case

Indonesian Ulema Council Deputy Chairman Anwar Abbas appeared as a defence witness in the corruption trial of former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Quomas. Yaqut is accused of causing state losses of Rp622.09 billion through alleged irregularities in the allocation and administration of additional Hajj quotas in 2023 and 2024.

SBN Yields Hit Six-Year High, Raising Fears of a Bigger Indonesian Debt Burden

Indonesia’s 10-year government bond yield surged to 7.707%, its highest level in six years, amid capital outflows, rupiah weakness and investor caution. Demand at the latest government bond auction fell sharply, while higher yields could increase future government borrowing costs and constrain budget spending if the pressure persists.

As the US Softens its Stance on Myanmar, Will the EU Maintain Its Blockade?

The United States has quietly opened talks with Myanmar’s military authorities, while several ASEAN states are also restoring direct diplomatic contact. The EU continues to reject the junta’s legitimacy and maintain sanctions, but faces pressure to balance its democratic principles with the risk of being sidelined in discussions about Myanmar’s future.

List of 20 Corporations Suspected of Forest and Land Fires Includes Malaysian and Singaporean Firms

Indonesia’s Criminal Investigation Agency has named 20 corporations suspects in forest and land fire cases, covering 29,168.78 hectares across the country. Four are foreign-investment companies from Singapore, Malaysia and South Korea; the companies face environmental charges carrying prison terms of up to five years and fines of up to Rp15 billion.

CTI Brings Bangka Cual, Dayak Iban and Lampung Inuh Weaving to JFW 2027

Cita Tenun Indonesia (CTI) showcased traditional textiles from Bangka Belitung, West Kalimantan and Lampung at Jakarta Fashion Week 2027, pairing weavers’ work with designs by three Indonesian fashion designers. CTI says many artisans and weaving traditions remain beyond the reach of its support, and stresses that preserving the craft also sustains livelihoods in local communities.

Deputy Manpower Minister stresses importance of training and job access for young people

Deputy Manpower Minister Afriansyah Noor has stressed that industry-aligned training and access to decent work are essential to help young people achieve economic independence. The government is expanding vocational training, apprenticeships and labour-market information, while working with local governments, universities and businesses to match training with available jobs.

Mercedes Crashes into Noodle Stall in Deli Serdang, Killing One and Injuring Four

A Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 struck a mi balap noodle stall beside the road in Deli Serdang, North Sumatra, killing one customer and injuring four other people. Police said the car was travelling towards Haji Medan General Hospital when it hit two vendors and three customers; the cause of the crash was not stated.

Moscow and Pyongyang back network sending workers to Russian factories, report says

A rights group says a network backed by Russia and North Korea is sending North Korean workers to Russian factories under exploitative conditions, in breach of UN sanctions, with much of their wages reportedly channelled to the North Korean state. The findings point to a connection between overseas forced labour, North Korea’s weapons programme and Russia’s wartime industrial needs, amid deepening military and political ties between the two countries.

Arab Party Bloc Set to Become ‘Kingmaker’ in Determining Israel’s Next Leader

With 89.8 per cent of votes counted, neither of the two main blocs is projected to secure the 61 seats needed for a Knesset majority. Arab-majority parties are forecast to win 19 seats, putting them in a potentially decisive position after record Arab voter turnout.

Pertamina Records 16,601 Beneficiaries of PFmuda Programme

Pertamina Foundation says its PFmuda youth social-entrepreneurship programme has reached 16,601 beneficiaries, including vulnerable groups, and helped create 2,208 jobs. By 2025, it had supported 362 winning groups across 28 provinces, with participating social enterprises averaging annual turnover of Rp270 million.

Beware Extremist Propaganda Traps, UI Terrorism Expert Urges Young People to Stay Rational

University of Indonesia terrorism analyst Muhamad Syauqillah warns that extremist groups exploit global conflicts and religious solidarity to undermine trust in Indonesia’s political system and promote divisive alternatives. He urges the government to communicate clearly and the public—especially young people—to respond rationally and pursue disagreements through democratic channels, not violence or calls to replace the state system.

Education Ministry develops vocational school models to reduce unemployment

Indonesia’s Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education is developing vocational education models intended to better align graduates’ skills with employers’ needs and reduce unemployment among vocational school leavers. The initiatives include an optional fourth year to prepare students for overseas work, company-linked training and programmes tailored to regional economic strengths.

Parepare Class II TPI Immigration Office Opens Service Centre at Barru Public Service Mall

The Parepare Class II TPI Immigration Office and Barru Regency Government have opened an immigration service centre at Barru’s Public Service Mall, making passport applications more accessible to local residents. Officials say the facility is intended to provide faster, more efficient services without requiring residents to travel to Parepare.

North Sumatra Police Reveal TikToker’s Motive for Insulting Jesus During Livestream, Citing Economic Hardship

North Sumatra Police say TikToker Ritman Marbun allegedly made offensive remarks about Jesus during a livestream amid unresolved economic problems and declining online popularity. He has been named a suspect in an alleged blasphemy case and detained for 20 days, while police continue to investigate whether other factors were involved.

Singapore Foreign Minister on Transboundary Haze: We Will Hold Them Accountable

Singapore and Indonesia have agreed to establish a joint task force to improve coordination and information-sharing in tackling transboundary haze and forest and land fires. Singapore Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan said the cooperation should help hold companies responsible and prevent repeat incidents, while the two countries also discussed stronger legal and policy measures.

Bulog forms special task force to tighten oversight of SPHP rice distribution

State-owned logistics company Bulog has formed a special task force to strengthen oversight of government rice distribution under the SPHP price-stabilisation programme, following allegations of misuse by distribution partners in East Jakarta. The company has also suspended six employees pending internal reviews and says it will assess partner compliance to ensure rice reaches the public at regulated prices.

Amran to Issue Circular After Exposing SPHP Rice Repalletising Case

Agriculture Minister and National Food Agency head Amran Sulaiman says a nationwide circular will strengthen oversight and public awareness of food-sector violations, following allegations that subsidised SPHP rice was repackaged and sold as premium rice. Authorities say about 600 tonnes may have been involved, potentially diverting Rp3.3 billion in subsidies, and plan wider inspections while working with law-enforcement agencies.

Social Affairs Ministry recruits more than 13,000 staff to meet needs of Sekolah Rakyat

The Social Affairs Ministry has recruited around 13,000 teachers and student-support staff for its Sekolah Rakyat programme, with further open recruitment planned each year. The government aims to expand the free schools to 500 locations by 2029; the programme currently operates at 182 sites and serves 44,000 pupils from the country’s poorest households.

Video: Digitalising Steel Plants for Efficient Production and Lower Logistics Costs

Garuda Yamato Steel’s IT director says digitalisation is essential to improving competitiveness by streamlining customer ordering, securing raw-material supplies and making steel production more efficient. The company’s technology investments span IT and operational technology, with data integration also expected to support decision-making in the age of artificial intelligence.

Residents Protest Broken Bojonggede Station Escalator with Funeral Wreaths

Residents have placed funeral wreaths and protest messages beside a long-broken escalator at Bojonggede Station’s skybridge, saying its failure makes access more difficult. Bogor regency officials are responsible for the escalator, and technicians have begun repair work.

Doctor: Choosing a Collagen Stimulator Requires Careful Consideration of Risks

An aesthetics doctor says collagen-stimulator treatments should be selected according to a patient’s skin condition, the product’s properties and injection technique, with potential complications taken into account. Patients should discuss benefits, limitations, alternatives and aftercare with a qualified doctor; claims that newer formulations eliminate complications require adequate clinical evidence.

Constitutional Court: Local Leaders Accused of Political Crimes Cannot Be Suspended Without a DPRD Proposal

Indonesia’s Constitutional Court has partially granted a petition challenging rules on the suspension of regional heads, ruling that suspension without a Regional Legislative Council (DPRD) proposal must not apply to defendants accused of political crimes or negligence. It also broadened the threshold to offences carrying a maximum prison sentence of five years or more and clarified that suspension begins when the case is registered in court.

BGN Targets 5,000–10,000 Free Nutritious Meal Kitchens for Buffet Service by End-2026

Indonesia’s National Nutrition Agency (BGN) aims for 5,000–10,000 kitchens serving the Free Nutritious Meals programme to adopt a buffet-style system by the end of 2026. After an initial trial at 66 kitchens, the agency plans to extend the pilot to about 230 more, seeking to reduce food-safety incidents and serve meals warm in portions aligned with pupils’ nutritional needs.

The effect of the ‘selebcat’ phenomenon on cats in public places

Viral photos and videos of cats living in public spaces can raise awareness of animal welfare, but the attention they attract may cause stress, particularly for cats with past trauma. A veterinarian advises visitors to watch for signs of discomfort, let cats approach on their own terms and respect their need for space.

Israeli Politics Heat Up as Netanyahu’s Future Remains Uncertain and Shekel Slumps

The shekel fell to its weakest closing level since April as preliminary election results suggested neither Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition nor the opposition could secure a parliamentary majority. With coalition negotiations potentially leading to prolonged deadlock or another election, investors also sold Israeli shares and pushed up government bond yields.

UNAIR Patriot Expedition Team Examines 1,000 Cattle in Manokwari Through Mobile Livestock Clinics

The Airlangga University Patriot Expedition Team has examined 1,000 cattle in Prafi district, Manokwari, using mobile livestock clinics, with 150–250 animals requiring follow-up checks. The initiative provides veterinary care, treatment and husbandry guidance while helping farmers reduce costs, supporting broader efforts to strengthen food self-sufficiency in Papua.

Pertamina Tightens Fuel Distribution Monitoring in Several Regions

Pertamina Patra Niaga is stepping up monitoring and accelerating fuel deliveries in areas affected by distribution disruptions, with queues in Bali, East Java and North Sulawesi now under control while those in Lampung and Gorontalo are easing. It has added 72 tanker trucks across East Java, North Sulawesi and Lampung, alongside round-the-clock terminal and service-station operations, to restore supply and maintain public services.

One Year of Sekolah Rakyat: Social Affairs Ministry’s Effort to Break the Cycle of Poverty

Indonesia’s Social Affairs Ministry marked the first anniversary of Sekolah Rakyat, a school programme intended to prevent poverty from being passed down through generations by bringing education directly to disadvantaged children. The ministry says the network now serves 44,000 students and combines education with health, family support and pathways to further study or work.

Police Uncover North Sumatra Drug Warehouse, Seize Meth and Ecstasy from Malaysia

Medan police seized 3kg of methamphetamine, 10,000 ecstasy pills and 1,778 drug-filled vapes from two storage sites in North Sumatra. The drugs, reportedly supplied from Malaysia, were valued at Rp10 billion, and police are seeking a Malaysian suspect believed to have supplied the network.

BGN Saves Rp44 Trillion During Sudaryono’s First 100 Days in Charge: The Breakdown

Indonesia’s National Nutrition Agency (BGN) says it has returned a total of Rp44 trillion to the state treasury through budget and operational savings during Sudaryono’s first 100 days as its head. The agency has also introduced a flat Rp2,000 per-meal incentive for nutrition service units and returned a further Rp160 billion following audit findings and recommendations.

Education Minister: Overseas Interns Can Promote Indonesia Abroad

Education Minister Abdul Mu’ti urged young Indonesians taking up internships and jobs overseas to promote Indonesian products and strengthen the country’s international image. He said they could support exports and contribute to Indonesia through the skills, experience and networks they gain abroad, while remaining connected to their homeland.

Police Insist Pakansari Match Machete Attack Suspect Was Not a Supporter

Police have arrested MR, 26, over the fatal machete attack on football supporter ARK on the Jakarta–Bogor road in West Java. Bogor Police say MR was not a supporter of either club, and are continuing to investigate his motive; a sickle has been seized as evidence.

How to Free Up Google Photos Storage

Google Photos storage is shared with Gmail and Google Drive, so a crowded photo library can also prevent Gmail from receiving new messages. The article explains how to review and delete large or unwanted files using the Google Photos app or a computer, helping users reclaim cloud space without immediately subscribing to Google One.

Gold Prices Fall Again as Fed Interest Rate Outlook Worries Investors

Spot gold fell 0.7% as investors weighed continuing geopolitical uncertainty and awaited US inflation data for clues about the Federal Reserve’s next rate move. Although the Fed held rates at 3.75–4.00%, markets continued to price in a possible December increase, while the World Bank forecast a 23% rise in global commodity prices in 2026.

Andre Rosiade Urges Padang to Turn Flood-River Sediment into a Source of Revenue

Andre Rosiade has asked Padang City Government to assess whether sediment dredged from rivers after floods can be legally and sustainably used to generate local revenue. Officials say about 700,000 cubic metres have been removed from the Batang Kuranji, with a further 500,000 cubic metres deposited after flooding on 10 October 2026; flood-control works in West Sumatra have allocations totalling around Rp4.3 trillion.

Analyst: Indonesia Needs ASEAN Cyber Cooperation to Combat Online Gambling

International relations analyst Teuku Rezasyah has urged Indonesia to work with ASEAN countries to track cross-border online gambling networks, prosecute operators and trace criminal proceeds. He proposed an ASEAN cyber centre or task force, alongside stronger domestic enforcement and digital literacy, as differing national laws and policies continue to hamper joint action.

PDI-P Holds Intergenerational Dialogue to Mark 98th Anniversary of Youth Pledge

PDI-P’s youth and sports division and Millennium Public Pulse 28 brought together speakers from different generations to discuss the future of young Indonesians, particularly Generation Z. They argued that policy must draw on data and young people’s lived experience, while raising concerns about the treatment of critical voices and the economic pressures facing the next generation.

Jakarta Assembly Member Lists Prabowo Government’s Achievements Amid Protests

Jakarta Regional House of Representatives member Ali Lubis has defended President Prabowo Subianto’s administration amid protests, citing programmes ranging from free meals and healthcare to food self-sufficiency and housing. His list also includes claims about recovered state assets, school revitalisation and support for workers, while asserting that the administration’s record explains why it has faced demonstrations.

Meeting the ‘Father of Asian EVs’, Vice-President Gibran Discusses Home-grown Electric Vehicles

Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming called for stronger innovation and domestic electric-vehicle technology development to boost Indonesia’s technological independence and industrial competitiveness. Discussions with Professor Ching-Chuen Chan also covered government support, consumer incentives, skills and curriculum, and Indonesia–China collaboration.

Singapore Foreign Minister Comments on Indonesian Gas After Meeting Prabowo

Singapore Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan said both countries are committed to honouring existing contracts, amid Indonesia’s cuts to gas exports. He said Singapore has strengthened its energy resilience through an LNG terminal and diversified supply, and also outlined plans for a joint task force with Indonesia to address smoke haze from forest and land fires.

North Sumatra Police Arrest Ritman Marbun over Alleged Insults to Jesus During Livestream

North Sumatra Regional Police have detained TikTok creator Ritman Marbun after a livestream in which he allegedly made insulting remarks about Jesus went viral. Police say the case is being handled by their cybercrime directorate and have urged the public not to be provoked by social media reports.

BGN’s Rp44 Trillion in MBG Budget Savings Reflect Improved Governance

Indonesia’s National Nutrition Agency (BGN) says it has returned Rp44 trillion to the state after reviewing spending on the Free Nutritious Meals programme during the first 100 days of Sudaryono’s leadership. The savings include reductions to the agency’s allocation and operational costs, alongside the recovery of funds linked to fictitious virtual-account balances; BGN also says it returned a further Rp160 billion following audit findings and oversight recommendations.

Wedding Party in Belu Turns Violent, Young Man Stabbed in the Abdomen

A 20-year-old man was stabbed during a wedding celebration in Belu, East Nusa Tenggara, after a brawl reportedly fuelled by alcohol. Police arrested a 21-year-old suspect and said the victim was undergoing surgery at Atambua Regional General Hospital.

Flavio Bolsonaro Reveals Why He Fled to the US After Losing Brazil’s Presidential Election

Flavio Bolsonaro has claimed he is Brazil’s legitimate president and says he will lead the opposition from exile in the United States after narrowly losing the run-off to Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. He accused Brazil’s judiciary of political persecution and rejected the official vote count, but offered no evidence of electoral fraud.

Prabowo’s Flagship Programme Could Revive Indonesia’s Industrialisation

The Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry says mining downstreaming can help restore industrial growth and make better use of Indonesia’s demographic dividend. Officials point to unfinished processing chains in bauxite and tin, arguing that more production should reach finished goods to generate wider economic benefits.

For the People: The Fish-and-Water Bond Reflected in Half a Quilt

The article recounts stories from the Long March to illustrate the Chinese Communist Party’s claims of solidarity with ordinary people, including Red Army soldiers sharing their only quilt and negotiating peaceful passage through Yi territory. It links that historical legacy to contemporary party members’ work in poverty alleviation and rural revitalisation, framing service to the people as a continuing political mission.

Bamsoet Says Circulation of Narcotic-Containing Vapes Is Alarming

Presidential Advisory Council member Bambang Soesatyo has urged the police chief to crack down on vapes containing liquid narcotics, citing BNN testing in which 98% of 1,789 vape-liquid samples tested between January 2025 and September 2026 contained narcotics, psychotropic substances or new psychoactive substances. He has called for stronger controls across the supply chain, thorough investigations targeting suppliers and financiers, and even a total ban to protect young people.

Besides Cilacap, Blora Also Receives 100 Water Tankers from Minister Agus

The Ministry of Immigration and Corrections has sent 100 tankers carrying 500,000 litres of clean water to drought-hit Blora, alongside 200 food packages for affected residents. The distribution is part of the ministry’s “Imipas Cares” initiative, following a similar delivery to Cilacap, where residents have faced dry wells and costly water purchases.

Brake Failure Suspected as Truck Carrying Three Tonnes of Sulphuric Acid Crashes on Kertek Descent in Wonosobo

A Toyota Dyna truck carrying about three tonnes of sulphuric acid crashed into an emergency escape lane on the Parakan–Kertek road in Wonosobo, with brake failure suspected. The driver was injured and taken to hospital, while the truck was damaged and its chemical cargo spilled onto the escape lane.

Kemnaker Confirms 2026 Wage Subsidy Payment Schedule, Amount and How to Check Eligibility

Indonesia’s Manpower Ministry says the Wage Subsidy Assistance (BSU) for October–December 2026 is expected to be paid in November–December, although no specific date has been set. Eligible recipients are due to receive Rp900,000 in total, while regulations, beneficiary data and budget preparations are still under way.

PR Fathiya Nur Salsabila Granted NPPBKC Licence After Meeting Business Requirements

PR Fathiya Nur Salsabila has received a key excise-business licence from Malang Customs after meeting the required administrative and physical criteria. The licence is intended to enable lawful tobacco production and support compliance with excise rules.

Indonesia invites US businesses to strengthen trade partnerships

Indonesia has invited US businesses to deepen trade and investment cooperation, with discussions covering the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade and support for Indonesian micro, small and medium-sized enterprises. The United States is a major contributor to Indonesia’s trade surplus: bilateral trade reached US$32.34 billion in January–August 2026, generating a US$12.47 billion surplus for Indonesia.

Creative Economy Ministry Urges MSMEs to Tap Markets and Protect Intellectual Property

Indonesia’s Creative Economy Ministry is urging micro, small and medium-sized enterprises to protect their intellectual property and use digital tools to reach global markets. Deputy Minister Irene Umar also highlighted the commercial value of Indonesian cultural storytelling and partnerships with international creative platforms in strengthening the appeal of local products.

Prabowo welcomes Singaporean foreign minister Balakrishnan for closed-door talks

President Prabowo Subianto met Singaporean Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan at the latter’s request, with officials describing the meeting as a way to address neighbouring countries’ concerns and strengthen regional communication. The talks followed bilateral discussions on forest and land fires, their haze impacts on Singapore, and plans for an Indonesia-Singapore task force to support joint response efforts.

Nine Areas in North Sumatra Hit by Floods and Landslides After Heavy Rain

Flooding and landslides triggered by intense rainfall have affected nine regencies and cities across North Sumatra, forcing residents to evacuate, although no deaths have been reported. The disasters have damaged roads and a river embankment, disrupted access and left 603 people displaced in Medan, while local authorities continue to assess the damage and respond.

Singapore Ready to Work with Indonesia to Tackle Forest and Land Fires

Singapore Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan said the two countries should work directly together to address transboundary haze, including through a joint task force for coordination and information-sharing. Singapore is also exploring stronger legal and policy measures to hold companies accountable and help prevent the fires from recurring.

Ombudsman: Certainty in Licensing Services Supports Ease of Doing Business

Ombudsman RI member Radian Syam says predictable, lawful and accountable licensing services are essential to making it easier to do business in Indonesia. He warns that maladministration can undermine public trust and the business climate, and says effective oversight should lead to tangible corrections and better governance.

French Politician Defends Mbappe over ‘Dictator’ Remark about Mao Zedong

French politician Marine Tondelier has defended Kylian Mbappe’s description of Mao Zedong as a dictator, calling it historically established fact rather than an opinion. The controversy has prompted apologies from Mbappe, Real Madrid and La Liga, while Chinese sponsors have severed ties with the footballer and Chinese state television has suspended broadcasts of Spain’s top-flight league.

Tropical Cyclone 91B Forms Suddenly, Two Regions on Alert for Heavy Rain

Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) says Tropical Cyclone 91B has formed in the Andaman Sea and could bring moderate to heavy rain to Aceh and North Sumatra, as well as rougher seas in the northern Malacca Strait, through 30 October. The agency also forecasts that much of Indonesia will enter the 2026/2027 rainy season in November and December, with its onset delayed and the season shorter than usual in many areas.

Forestry Officer Dies After Being Struck by Tree While Fighting North Toraja Wildfire

A forestry officer in North Toraja, South Sulawesi, died after a falling tree struck him while he was helping tackle a forest and land fire. The blaze in Lembang Nanna had been burning since 19 October; the officer was taken to hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival.

Pandu’s Stake in Supra Sekuritas: No Allegation of Wrongdoing

Danantara Indonesia CIO Pandu Sjahrir holds a passive, indirect minority stake in Supra Sekuritas, but has not been accused of any wrongdoing in connection with OJK’s recent capital-market sanctions. The regulator’s penalties, totalling Rp2.1 trillion, relate to alleged market manipulation involving three listed companies and come amid efforts to strengthen market transparency and governance.

245 People Named as Suspects in Forest and Land Fires, with the Highest Numbers in West Kalimantan and Riau

Indonesia’s National Police say 245 individuals have been named as suspects in forest and land fires by the end of October 2026, with 287 police reports covering 5,859.12 hectares. West Kalimantan and Riau recorded the most cases; police have also named 20 companies, including four foreign-investment firms, as suspects, and say they will pursue cases against individuals and corporations.

Government targets 42.6 gigawatts of renewable energy by 2034

Indonesia plans to add 69.5 GW of power-generation capacity by 2034, with 42.6 GW, or about 61 per cent, coming from new and renewable energy under PLN’s 2025–2034 electricity supply plan. The programme could create investment opportunities worth up to Rp2,967.4 trillion.

Kazakhstan Offers Halal Tourism to Indonesian Travellers, Highlighting Key Destinations

Kazakhstan’s ambassador to Indonesia is promoting the country as a halal-friendly destination, citing rising visitor numbers from Indonesia and interest in winter travel and Islamic heritage. He highlighted Turkistan’s historic Islamic monuments, including a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and said Kazakhstan offers halal standards and a welcoming environment for Muslim families.

SPHP Rice Mixing Case Draws in Bulog and Bapanas Officials: How It Worked

Bulog says subsidised SPHP rice bought through its official Klik SPHP channel was allegedly repackaged and resold as premium rice in East Jakarta. Investigators traced the supply to a registered Rumah Pangan Kita partner who reportedly placed repeated four-tonne orders, while a joint task force examines possible internal involvement; eight Bulog and Bapanas officials have been dismissed.

Police Hold Youth Pledge Declaration with Students at Bundaran HI

Metro Jaya Regional Police held a 2026 Indonesian Students’ Youth Pledge declaration at Bundaran HI, with around 100 students pledging to uphold fraternity, respect differences and use open dialogue to preserve national unity. Presidential special envoy Raffi Ahmad said young people today must counter misinformation, hate speech and provocation online, while police officials urged them to turn the declaration into positive action.

Meutya Hafid urges US tech firms to expand digital investment in Indonesia

Communications and Digital Affairs Minister Meutya Hafid has urged US technology companies to expand investment in Indonesia, with benefits extending beyond infrastructure to skills, knowledge transfer and improved public services. At a meeting with the US-ASEAN Business Council, she also highlighted AI safeguards and predictable regulation as priorities for building an inclusive and trusted digital ecosystem.

Andre Rosiade Inspects River Dredging Project in West Sumatra After Flash Floods

MP Andre Rosiade inspected post-flood river works in Padang, urging the government to move swiftly from emergency response to permanent rehabilitation and reconstruction. West Sumatra has allocated about Rp4.3 trillion for water-resource recovery, including river and flood-control projects across 43 rivers, with work in Padang brought forward amid repeated flooding.

38 Bekasi City Community Organisation Members Trained in Hairdressing Through ‘Poliran’

Bekasi City Police have trained 38 members of local community organisations in hairdressing through the Police Cares for the Unemployed (Poliran) programme, with the aim of helping them find work or start small businesses. The initiative forms part of a wider effort to link public safety with employment skills and community welfare.

House Commission III Responds to Calls to Redefine Corruption in the Corruption Law

Deputy chairman of House Commission III Ahmad Sahroni says any revision of the Corruption Eradication Law must be based on clear, objective and transparent aims and receive comprehensive scrutiny. The debate follows the government’s plan to refine the definition of corruption, which it says is intended to strengthen legal certainty without weakening anti-corruption efforts; Commission III is currently prioritising the Asset Forfeiture Bill.

Ombudsman: Strengthening the Institution Is Essential for National Development

Ombudsman RI says stronger institutional capacity is needed to support national development and improve public services. In talks with Bappenas, it sought a greater role in development planning, performance-based regional funding and continued use of its assessments as an indicator of local government performance.

Semeru Rain-Induced Lahars Threaten Besuk Kobokan Area up to 17 Kilometres Away

Lumajang’s disaster management agency has urged people to stay at least 500 metres from riverbanks along Besuk Kobokan, where hot clouds and lahar flows could extend up to 17 kilometres from Mount Semeru’s summit. The warning comes after rainfall increased over the past five days, raising the risk of rain-triggered lahar floods.

12 Countries with the Highest Birth Rates, Including Indonesia

UN projections put India first for births in 2025, at 23.07 million, with Indonesia ranking sixth at 4.44 million. The figures highlight contrasting demographic trajectories: China is the only country among the 12 projected to record more deaths than births, while global fertility decline and ageing populations are reshaping growth patterns.

Rupiah Strengthens Against US Dollar After Fed’s Latest Decision

The rupiah rose 0.24 per cent to Rp18,141 per US dollar at Thursday’s open after the Federal Reserve kept its policy rate at 3.75–4.00 per cent. Permata Bank chief economist Josua Pardede said the Fed gave no clear signal on its December decision, leaving US economic and inflation data central to the currency’s outlook; he expects the rupiah to trade between Rp18,100 and Rp18,225 per dollar.

Meutya Hafid Urges US Technology Investment, Focusing on AI and Indonesian Digital Talent

Communications and Digital Affairs Minister Meutya Hafid has called on US technology firms to expand investment in Indonesia, with a focus on job creation, workforce skills and public services. She said AI development should be supported by predictable regulation and safeguards for children and personal data, while US-ASEAN Business Council representatives stressed the need for closer public-private cooperation.

Komaidi: New Procurement Rules Must Deliver Affordable Fuel Prices

ReforMiner Institute executive director Komaidi Notonegoro says Presidential Regulation No. 107 of 2026 should ensure reliable energy supplies, affordable prices and measurable savings for the state budget. The regulation shifts imports of crude oil, fuel and LPG from a market-based corporate model to government-led procurement, a change he says must be supported by aligned rules and clear institutional governance.

Indonesia and Kazakhstan seek to expand trade ahead of Prabowo’s visit

Indonesia and Kazakhstan are preparing more than 20 bilateral agreements covering areas including trade, investment and digitalisation ahead of President Prabowo Subianto’s planned visit. Bilateral trade currently stands at about US$250 million, and Kazakhstan’s ambassador said the Indonesia–Eurasian Economic Union free trade agreement could help boost trade and cooperation.

Jakarta Speeds Up River Improvements Ahead of November Rainy Season

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo says the provincial government is accelerating river and drainage works to reduce flood risks ahead of rains expected from late November. Projects include dredging and normalisation across several waterways, as well as improvements to retention ponds and a river confluence, amid the possibility of a shift from El Niño to wetter La Niña conditions.

Apple Launches Its First Touchscreen MacBook Pro, Coming Soon to Indonesia

Apple has unveiled 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models featuring tandem OLED displays, touchscreen controls and Dynamic Island, powered by its M5 Pro and M5 Max chips. The company says the laptops will soon go on sale in Indonesia, though local prices have not yet been announced.

Jokowi Awaits Prosecutors’ Invitation to Roy Suryo Trial: ‘I Will Attend’

Former Indonesian president Joko Widodo says he will testify in the case against Roy Suryo if prosecutors formally invite him. Prosecutors are expected to summon Widodo and his aide, Syarif Muhammad Fitriansyah, to appear at a hearing on 5 November.

Mentan Removes Eight Bulog and Bapanas Officials over Alleged SPHP Rice Adulteration Case

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman says eight officials at state food agency Bapanas and state-owned Bulog have been removed, while two others received warnings, following an alleged case of adulterated government-distributed SPHP rice. He said the officials’ roles are still being investigated and that anyone found guilty will face legal action.

Thailand hosts 2026 IMF-World Bank meetings and releases Bangkok Dialogue Notes

Thailand’s finance minister has unveiled the Bangkok Dialogue Notes, a set of reflections from the country’s role as host of the 2026 IMF-World Bank Group Annual Meetings, centred on building resilience through trusted global connections and stronger local capabilities. The document outlines five themes and four programme pillars, spanning digital technology, trade and investment, climate adaptation, and demographic change, and calls for practical cooperation that delivers tangible benefits for people and businesses.

Malaysian and Singaporean Companies Named as Suspects in Forest and Land Fires

Indonesia’s Criminal Investigation Agency has named 20 companies as suspects in forest and land fires, including firms linked to Singapore and Malaysia. Investigators say fires affected more than 29,000 hectares across cases, and the companies face environmental-law charges carrying prison sentences and fines of up to Rp15 billion.

OJK Welcomes ASEAN Capital Markets Forum’s Support for Capital Market Reforms

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has welcomed the ASEAN Capital Markets Forum’s backing for Indonesia’s capital market reforms, which focus on transparency, enforcement and liquidity. OJK says it will continue improving governance, disclosure, supervision and market structure to strengthen investor protection and confidence, while ACMF recognises Indonesia’s regulatory progress and its importance in regional cooperation.

Singapore Foreign Minister Speaks Out About Meeting Prabowo: What Did They Discuss?

Singapore Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan said she did not disclose details of her closed-door meeting with President Prabowo Subianto, but stressed the need to implement commitments made at the highest level. Her visit also focused on cross-border haze, cooperative solutions and preparedness, while talks with Indonesia’s foreign minister covered forest fires, enforcement, economic ties and ASEAN’s 2027 agenda.

Vice-President Urges Innovation in Home-grown Electric Vehicles

Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming has called for stronger innovation and development of Indonesian electric-vehicle technology to build technological independence and improve the competitiveness of the national industry. Officials and an EV expert also highlighted consumer incentives, industry-focused skills and education, Indonesia-China collaboration, and research-led innovation as priorities for developing the sector.

Food Mafia War Continues as Agriculture Minister Amran Finds Suspected 600 Tonnes of Subsidised Rice Repackaged as Premium Rice

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman says an alleged scheme to blend or repackage subsidised SPHP rice as premium rice must spur a wider crackdown on food-mafia networks. During a raid in East Jakarta, he praised police cooperation and called for investigators to trace the suspected operation beyond the premises where it was uncovered.

Pramono assures Jakarta flood-control budget will not be cut

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung says funding for the city’s Water Resources Agency flood-control work will be protected despite adjustments to the regional budget. The 2026 Jakarta budget is set at Rp81.32 trillion, down Rp10.54 trillion from 2025, largely because central-government transfers have fallen.

Home Affairs Minister Prepares Rp1 Trillion in Incentives for Regions Supporting the Free Nutritious Meals Programme

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian says the central government will provide Rp1 trillion in fiscal incentives to local governments that help deliver the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. Incentives will be awarded through a competitive scheme, while local MBG task forces are also being tasked with inspecting and assessing nutrition service units.

Man Killed After Being Struck by Balas Train in Soragan Was SPPG Employee

A 21-year-old employee of an SPPG in Tegalrejo, identified by police as PWR, died after being struck by a Balas train at the Soragan railway crossing in Bantul. Police said the train driver sounded the warning repeatedly, while crossing staff reported not seeing the man approach the tracks.

Singapore Stresses Search for Joint Solutions with Indonesia to Tackle Haze

Singapore’s Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan says a joint task force with Indonesia will coordinate responses and information-sharing to address transboundary haze and hold companies responsible for fires. The two countries say the initiative will strengthen law enforcement against corporations linked to forest and land fires, with long-term efforts also aimed at restoring affected land and assets.

Rupiah Hits Record Low as Investors Grow Wary of Indonesia

The rupiah fell to a record low of Rp 18,183 per US dollar, as global pressures combine with domestic concerns over fiscal risks, investment policy and a possible MSCI market-classification downgrade. Bank Indonesia says it is intervening to stabilise the currency, but analysts warn that prolonged weakness could raise import costs and inflation, strain government finances and lead businesses to delay investment.

Hong Leong Bank boosts cross-border payment connectivity through UnionPay International partnership

Hong Leong Bank has partnered with UnionPay International to let customers make QR payments at more than 120 million merchants in mainland China and participating outlets in Hong Kong, Macao and Thailand through the HLB Connect app. The service builds on the bank’s multi-currency account features and expands its range of overseas payment options, reflecting efforts to make cross-border transactions more convenient and secure.

Bogor City Police Prioritise Education in Operation Patuh to Reduce Accidents

Bogor City Police are conducting a two-week traffic operation that emphasises persuasive education alongside enforcement, with a particular focus on helmet use among schoolchildren. Officers say they will issue penalties selectively when violations endanger road users, targeting offences including riding without helmets, drink-driving, wrong-way driving and using a phone while driving.

Police Name 20 Corporations as Suspects in Forest and Land Fires, Including Four Foreign Investors

Indonesia’s National Police have named 20 corporations as suspects in alleged forest and land-fire cases, including four foreign-investment companies from Singapore, Malaysia and South Korea. The cases concern 29,168.78 hectares of burned land, and investigators say the number of corporate suspects could rise as inquiries continue.

Japan’s Defence Minister Cites Three Reasons for ‘Deteriorating’ Security in Southeast Asia

Japan’s Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi identified worsening natural disasters, conflicts disrupting supply chains and energy supplies, and rapidly shifting military balances as three pressures on Southeast Asia’s security. He pledged Japan’s support for ASEAN and stressed the importance of unity, centrality and resilience as regional tensions and risks of miscalculation grow.

Operation Patuh Agung 2026: Bali Police Crack Down on Offences and Educate Motorists

Bali police are enforcing traffic rules and educating motorists during Operation Patuh Agung 2026, targeting unsafe vehicles and driving practices. Officials say enforcement is a last resort, with the broader aim of building public awareness that road safety is essential rather than simply avoiding police checks.

Amran Dismisses Bapanas and Bulog Officials over Alleged SPHP Rice Misappropriation

Agriculture Minister and National Food Agency chief Andi Amran Sulaiman has dismissed eight officials from Bapanas and state-owned Bulog and issued warnings to two others following alleged misuse of subsidised SPHP rice. The investigation concerns rice bought from Bulog, repackaged and sold as premium or mixed with other rice; nine private-sector actors are being investigated, with one named as a suspect. Bulog says the suspensions are an accountability measure to protect the investigation, and officials found uninvolved will be reinstated.

House of Representatives Gives Indonesia’s Mining Downstreaming Programme Near-Perfect Score

A member of the House of Representatives’ Commission XII has rated Indonesia’s mining downstreaming efforts nine out of ten, citing the shift away from selling minerals in raw form. He said downstream processing is advancing across sectors, while zircon and monazite remain challenging and nickel processing is expanding into battery materials and lower-grade limonite ore.

Mampang River Normalisation: Pramono Says Jakarta Is Ready for the Rainy Season

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung says dredging and embankment maintenance on the Mampang and Krukut rivers are part of an integrated effort to reduce flood risks ahead of the rainy season. Work has removed thousands of cubic metres of sediment, with further dredging and river improvements planned across the capital.

BKSDA Says Anak Krakatau Is Not a Tourist Destination

Conservation authorities have warned that tourism and recreational activities are illegal in the Anak Krakatau island group, which is a protected nature reserve reserved for education and research. The warning follows three eruptions in less than an hour, while the volcano remains at Alert Level III and a five-kilometre exclusion zone is in force.

BPS DKI Jakarta Has Recorded 1.4 Million Businesses in 2026 Economic Census

BPS DKI Jakarta has enumerated 1,431,051 businesses in the 2026 Economic Census, exceeding its target of about 1.2 million. The census data is expected to inform government policy, investment decisions and programmes ranging from social protection to job creation, with further follow-up visits continuing until 31 October.

How to Check the List of 2027 Pilgrims Eligible to Pay Hajj Costs

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has published the names of regular Hajj candidates allocated places for the 1448 Hijri/2027 season and eligible to settle their pilgrimage costs. Pilgrims can check their departure status on the ministry’s website and should complete health assessments to establish medical istithaah before paying the Hajj Travel Costs (Bipih).

Metro Jaya Police and Students Hold Youth Pledge Declaration at Bundaran HI

Metro Jaya Police and 100 students marked Youth Pledge Day with a declaration at Bundaran HI, calling for unity, dialogue and a commitment to contribute positively to Indonesia. Presidential Special Envoy Raffi Ahmad urged young people to resist online misinformation, hate speech and provocation, while police said the gathering was intended to strengthen ties between students, communities and security personnel.

Jakarta Police Prepare Security for 61 Demonstrations Today

Metro Jaya Police say 61 demonstrations and 17 other public activities are scheduled across Jakarta today, including events outside government buildings and a protest by Trisakti University students. Police, the military and the Jakarta provincial government will provide security, while urging demonstrators to notify police and hold peaceful, orderly events.

Forest and Land Fires Burn 5,859 Hectares; Police Name 245 Suspects

Indonesia’s Criminal Investigation Agency says 245 people have been named as suspects in forest and land fire cases covering 5,859.12 hectares, across 287 police reports. West Kalimantan has the most reports, while investigators say suspects allegedly cleared land by burning, intentionally or through negligence, and face potential prison terms and substantial fines.

Suspect in Fatal Bogor Football Supporter Machete Attack Paraded

Police have arrested MR, 26, as the main suspect in the fatal machete attack on football supporter ARK in Bogor, West Java. Investigators are still examining the motive; police say MR was not a supporter of any football club and have seized a sickle as evidence.

Pupuk Kaltim Pledges to Create a Healthy and Inclusive Workplace

Pupuk Kaltim says it is strengthening a safe, inclusive workplace through anti-harassment policies, employee development and innovation programmes, and formal industrial relations. The fertiliser producer reported 1,325 innovation papers in 2024 and efficiency savings of Rp215.8 billion, while extending human-rights and labour standards to suppliers across its value chain.

Risk Premium Surges as Indonesian Government Bonds Draw Few Bids, Investors Grow Uneasy

Indonesia’s five-year credit default swap (CDS) premium remains above 100 basis points, while investor bids at the government’s latest bond auction fell by around 52% from the previous sale. Economists say heightened risk perceptions and demands for higher yields are weighing on demand, even as the government limits borrowing costs; prolonged market pressure could defer rather than eliminate financing risks.

Deputy Human Rights Minister stresses human rights protections in Asset Forfeiture Bill

Deputy Human Rights Minister Mugiyanto says the Asset Forfeiture Bill must combine effective crime-fighting powers with legal safeguards for constitutional rights, including protections for innocent third parties. As Parliament accelerates consideration of the bill, he calls for oversight, due process and remedies for errors to be built into the law.

WFP Warns Food Insecurity in Haiti Could Reach Record Levels in 2027

The UN World Food Programme says the number of Haitians facing acute food insecurity could rise to a record 6.35 million between March and June 2027, more than 500,000 above the same period in 2026. Violence, economic instability, crop failures, forced displacement and El Niño are worsening hunger, while WFP says it needs US$78 million to continue its operations through March.

Uma Palak Farmers’ Story Draws ASCOPE Delegation’s Attention, from Irrigation Water to Energy Self-Sufficiency

A renewable-energy irrigation system in Bali’s Subak Sembung is helping farmers manage water more efficiently and reduce operating costs, while powering electric farming equipment. During an ASCOPE delegation visit, Pertamina also provided a rice-milling machine, extending support to post-harvest processing and farmers’ self-reliance.

Police Name 245 Suspects in Forest and Land Fires, 5,859 Hectares Burned

Indonesia’s National Police have named 245 individuals as suspects in connection with forest and land fires covering 5,859.12 hectares, across 287 police reports. West Kalimantan recorded the most reports; those charged face potential prison sentences and fines under plantation, environmental and forestry laws.

Indonesia and ILO launch decent work programme for 2026–2030

Indonesia and the International Labour Organization have launched the fourth phase of the Decent Work Country Programme, with the government, employers and labour unions committing to work together. The programme will focus on social dialogue, inclusive and productive employment, and broader social protection amid widespread informal work and labour-market changes driven by digitalisation, AI and the green transition.

Pati Disaster Agency Continues Water Deliveries as Drought Spreads

Drought has now affected 81 villages across 12 subdistricts in Pati, Central Java, prompting the district disaster agency to increase clean-water deliveries to around 30 tanker trucks a day. The regency has allocated Rp20 billion in contingency funds, while public and private organisations are also providing emergency water to residents.

28,000 University Students from Multiple Disciplines Targeted for AI Training

A free, structured programme aims to equip 28,000 students from Indonesian universities with AI skills by 2027, with more than 14,200 already enrolled as of October 2026. Organisers say practical training, hackathons and government-backed startup incubation are intended to help students across disciplines turn AI knowledge into innovations and businesses.

Pertamina Patra Niaga Strengthens Fuel and LPG Supplies, Preparing Hundreds of Distribution Facilities

Pertamina Patra Niaga says it is diversifying crude oil and fuel procurement and deepening international partnerships to safeguard energy supplies amid global geopolitical uncertainty. It operates a nationwide network of fuel, aviation fuel and LPG terminals, as well as floating storage facilities, to maintain distribution—including in areas with challenging geography—and says affordability and service reliability remain priorities.

US Orders Government Staff and Families to Leave Saudi Arabia Amid Security Risks

The US State Department has ordered non-emergency government employees and their families to leave Saudi Arabia, citing Houthi attacks on airports and other critical infrastructure. The embassy also warns of possible airspace closures and severe travel disruption, and requires staff who remain to obtain special permission before using any Saudi airport.

North Korea Fires Unidentified Projectile Towards the East Sea

North Korea fired an unidentified projectile from its east coast, with South Korea and Japan reporting that it appeared to be a ballistic missile and fell into the sea. The launch comes amid rising tensions over landmines in the Demilitarised Zone and as US President Donald Trump seeks renewed engagement with Pyongyang, raising concerns that Seoul could be sidelined in any nuclear talks.

Yusril Urges Young People to Uphold the National Pledge Through Legal Certainty

Coordinating Minister for Law, Human Rights, Immigration and Corrections Yusril Ihza Mahendra called on young people to uphold national unity and integrity by ensuring fair, certain laws. He linked the Youth Pledge to Indonesia’s legal reforms, including the national Criminal Code taking effect in 2026, and said sound legal rules are essential to economic development and the country’s 2045 ambitions.

Bappenas Chief: Housing Sector Has a Major Multiplier Effect

National Development Planning Minister and Bappenas chief Rachmat Pambudy said housing development can stimulate related industries and wider economic activity. He called for an integrated housing ecosystem, clear policies and sustained programmes to address the housing backlog, while Housing Minister Maruarar Sirait outlined initiatives including construction, renovation and subsidised financing.

BRI Makes Top 50 Big-Cap Issuers in IICD 2026, Demonstrating Governance as the Foundation for Sustainable Performance

Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) has again been named among the Top 50 Big-Cap issuers at the 2026 IICD Corporate Governance Awards. The recognition, based on the ASEAN Corporate Governance Scorecard framework, highlights the bank’s focus on transparency and accountability as foundations for investor confidence and sustainable growth.

Switzerland Ready to Host US-Russia-Ukraine Trilateral Talks

Switzerland says it remains in contact with all parties to the Ukraine conflict and is willing to host trilateral talks involving Russia, Ukraine and the United States. The offer comes as Moscow signals readiness to resume negotiations, which may be held in Abu Dhabi in mid-November.

Jakarta Provincial Government Is Normalising the Mampang River to Reduce Flood Risk

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung inspected dredging and riverbank maintenance on the Mampang River as part of an integrated effort to improve drainage and reduce flooding. The works, which also cover the Krukut River and other waterways, are intended to strengthen the wider flood-control system ahead of the rainy season, though heavy rainfall may still cause flooding.

Magelang-Born Man Goes Global, Dubbed the Father of Asian Electric Vehicles

C. C. Chan, an electrical engineer born in Magelang, became a pioneering figure in electric-vehicle research after childhood observations of pollution in his family’s vehicle garage sparked his interest. He later founded an international research centre at the University of Hong Kong and helped advance electric-vehicle development worldwide, earning the title “Father of Asian Electric Vehicles” in 2003.

House of Representatives Calls for Scrutiny of Plan to Import 30 Million Barrels of Oil from UAE

A House of Representatives member has urged the government to examine a proposed supply of up to 30 million barrels of crude oil from the UAE, including its procurement terms, suitability for Indonesian refineries and potential fiscal impact. The proposal remains exploratory, despite an earlier statement that the oil would be supplied at no cost.

Turmeric Consumption Linked to Lower Blood Pressure

Research suggests that regular turmeric consumption may be associated with lower blood pressure, potentially because curcumin has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. A doctor cautions that turmeric supplements can interact with medicines and advises people with hypertension to consult a healthcare professional rather than use them as a substitute for standard treatment.

Village Websites Support Transparency, Says Ministry

The Ministry of Villages and Development of Disadvantaged Regions says village websites can strengthen transparency and digital security in local governance. It is holding a national competition in 2027 to recognise villages’ efforts to present themselves through digital platforms, with registration opening in November 2025.

DPR: Student-Police Cooperation During Demonstration Shows Democratic Maturity

DPR Commission III chairman Habiburokhman praised the orderly conduct of students and the police’s dialogue-led approach during a demonstration on 28 October, describing their cooperation as evidence of a mature and calm democracy. The government has also affirmed the right to peaceful protest, saying public criticism and aspirations help it review policies and improve public services.

Backpacker Umrah Community Says Advice to Avoid Stopovers in Singapore and Malaysia Is Realistic

The founder of the Umrah Backpacker Community says Indonesian pilgrims should favour direct flights to Saudi Arabia when their budgets allow, given uncertain geopolitical conditions and the risks of disruption. Direct tickets can cost Rp5 million to Rp8 million more than stopover routes, but delays or cancellations could disrupt visa and hotel arrangements.

DPR Commission III Chair Praises Police for Persuasive Handling of Student Protest

DPR Commission III Chair Habiburokhman praised police for using a persuasive, humane approach to manage student demonstrations marking Youth Pledge Day in Jakarta on 28 October 2026. The protest dispersed peacefully, traffic returned to normal, and he urged police to maintain two-way communication as the standard for future public demonstrations.

Be Alert for Very Heavy Rain Across Indonesia: Check BMKG’s Latest Warnings

The BMKG has forecast moderate to very heavy rain in several parts of Indonesia over three days from 29 to 31 October 2026, following months of drought linked to El Niño. It has issued alerts for potential flooding, flash floods, landslides and other disruption, with Jakarta under a moderate-to-heavy rain alert and several northern and western provinces facing the highest warning level.

DBS Denies Merger Rumours with BCA

Bank DBS Indonesia and its Singaporean parent have denied social media speculation that the lender will merge with Bank Central Asia (BCA). The rumours circulated alongside a sharp rise in BCA shares and other market speculation, but the banks say there is no truth to the claims.

Jay-Z on AI: Machines Can Only Imitate and Will Never Replace Humans

Jay-Z warned that artificial intelligence can mimic people but cannot replace human intelligence or identity, urging the public to question information circulating online. Speaking at the final concert of his JAY-Z30 Tour, he also likened AI-enabled deception to propaganda, calling the emerging tools “tricknology”.

Chandra Asri (TPIA) Plans Share Buyback of up to Rp2 Trillion

Chandra Asri Pacific plans to spend up to Rp2 trillion buying back as many as 1.6 billion shares, or 1.84% of its issued capital, between 29 October 2026 and 28 January 2027. The company says the move is intended to support shareholder value and share-price stability, and expects no material effect on its business or financing; repurchased shares will be held as treasury shares under applicable regulations.

Magnitude 6.0 Earthquake Strikes Papua New Guinea, with Epicentre on Land, BMKG Says

A magnitude 6.0 earthquake struck near Kiunga in Papua New Guinea on 29 October, with Indonesia’s BMKG updating its magnitude to 5.9 and locating the epicentre on land. The agency said the shallow strike-slip earthquake posed no tsunami threat; shaking was reported in parts of Papua and no aftershocks had been detected by 10:55 WIB.

Bringing Justice to the Kelurahan Doorstep

Legal aid posts (Posbankum) have been established in all 153 kelurahan in Surabaya, offering residents information, consultation, assistance and routes to resolve disputes. Their impact will depend on whether they deliver practical, rights-based support: national figures show 80,298 posts had been set up by January 2026, covering 95.66 per cent of villages and urban wards.

Digitalisation of Village Cooperatives Promoted to Strengthen Communities’ Economies

Indonesia’s Communications and Digital Affairs Ministry is promoting digital tools to help village cooperatives and small businesses expand markets, improve efficiency and strengthen local economies. A Surakarta cooperative reports turnover exceeding Rp400 million in January–August 2026, while a member says her traditional snack sales rose after she began marketing through both a physical shop and an app.

Jembrana Regency Opens Tender for 20-Year Jimbarwana Hotel Partnership

Jembrana Regency has opened a tender for a private-sector partner to manage the Jimbarwana Hotel under a 20-year asset-utilisation agreement. The deal requires a minimum annual fixed contribution of Rp334.55 million, a 1% profit share and at least Rp6.69 billion in investment, as the regency seeks to boost locally generated revenue.

7 Traits That Distinguish People with Big Egos from Those Who Are Confident

Psychologist Marisa G. Franco distinguishes ego-driven behaviour—such as seeking attention and ranking people by status—from healthy self-confidence. She identifies five signs of genuine confidence, including empathy, emotional regulation, authenticity, accountability and accepting feelings of insecurity, which can support healthier relationships.

Magnitude 6.0 Earthquake in Papua New Guinea, Tremors Felt as Far as Merauke and Jayapura

A magnitude 6.0 earthquake struck near Kiunga in Papua New Guinea, with tremors felt in several parts of Indonesia’s Papua region, including Boven Digoel, Jayapura and Merauke. The BMKG said the shallow quake was caused by activity on an active strike-slip fault; no aftershocks had been detected at the time of its report.

South Jakarta City Administration Trims Dozens of Trees at Risk of Falling in Kebayoran Lama

South Jakarta’s Parks and City Forest Sub-agency has pruned or felled 23 trees across 12 locations in Kebayoran Lama to reduce the danger of trees falling during heavy rain and strong winds. The work followed residents’ reports, and officials say the trees were treated according to their condition, including signs of decay, death or interference with street lighting and overhead cables.

BGN Chief Says 2,000 Problematic Free Meal Kitchens Closed in First 100 Days

National Nutrition Agency (BGN) chief Sudaryono says more than 2,000 kitchens under the free nutritious meals programme have been shut for hygiene and sanitation violations, with some closures made permanent. He also cited the cancellation of a Rp535.3 billion LED procurement and the recovery of Rp414 billion from duplicate accounts linked to kitchens that had not begun operating.

5,288 Tayub Dancers in Pacitan Break MURI Record

A total of 5,288 dancers took part in the 2026 Gebyar Langen Tayub Pacitan, setting a new Museum Rekor-Dunia Indonesia (MURI) record for the largest number of dancers. Organised to preserve traditional tayub performance and mark Youth Pledge Day, the event also brought together local artists, cultural figures and residents.

Trade Minister Urges US Businesses to Strengthen Trade and Investment Ties

Trade Minister Budi Santoso has urged US businesses to deepen trade and investment cooperation with Indonesia, highlighting the United States as a key trading partner and a contributor to Indonesia’s trade surplus. The appeal came during a meeting with the US-ASEAN Business Council, whose representatives discussed bilateral trade and prospects for further collaboration across several sectors.

Man in Bangkalan Claims to Be Al-Mahdi; Hadiths Describe the Imam’s Appearance

A man in Bangkalan has been reported to police over alleged fraud and extortion carried out under the guise of religious teaching, with losses reportedly reaching Rp1.3 billion. The article outlines Islamic traditions linking the appearance of Al-Mahdi with the descent of Prophet Isa, while noting that the alleged claims have drawn public attention.

UN General Assembly Backs Call to End US Embargo on Cuba

The UN General Assembly adopted a resolution calling for the United States to end its economic, trade and financial embargo on Cuba, with 130 countries voting in favour and 17 against. Although non-binding, the resolution reflects the international community’s position as Cuba’s foreign minister said the embargo was worsening shortages of fuel, medicines and essential goods.

Shandong Deepens BRICS Cooperation with International Trade and Investment Conference

Shandong’s third international trade and investment conference brought more than 100 delegates from 30 countries and regions together with over 200 local companies, with more than 500 meetings focused on sectors including agriculture, green industries, machinery and the digital economy. Participants highlighted opportunities for wider BRICS partnerships, while speakers urged firms to expand overseas through integrated industrial chains and international cooperation.

IPW Welcomes Police’s Direct Access to the Public, Calling It a Sign of Commitment to Public Service

Indonesia Police Watch (IPW) says giving the public direct contact channels to regional police chiefs could help end the perception that cases receive attention only after going viral online. It is urging the National Police chief to formalise the practice, arguing that accessible, accountable and affordable police services should be available equally to all citizens.

The Real Threats Behind the Glamour of Children’s Esports

A Save the Children report warns that young esports players face risks including sleep disruption, mental health pressures, online abuse and economic exploitation. It urges the industry to put children’s rights and wellbeing ahead of competitive ambitions, and highlights the lack of shared standards for healthy playing hours and training practices.

Bonatua Sues over Jokowi’s Diploma at Central Jakarta District Court; Preliminary Ruling Set for 11 November

Public policy observer Bonatua Silalahi and retired Navy Rear Admiral Moeryono Aladin have sued several election bodies and university officials over the use of certified copies of Joko Widodo’s diploma in his political campaigns. The Central Jakarta District Court is due to issue a preliminary ruling on 11 November 2026; the case follows a separate Information Commission decision that the diploma copies were public information.

Japan Identifies Three Reasons for Deteriorating Security in Southeast Asia

Japanese Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi cited worsening natural disasters, global conflicts disrupting supply chains and energy supplies, and rapidly shifting military balances as the three factors driving a deteriorating security environment in Southeast Asia. He pledged support for ASEAN’s disaster-response and maritime-security efforts, and called for renewed cooperation to strengthen the bloc’s ability to act independently.

Police to Summon Dandhy Laksono Again over Pesta Babi Film

Jakarta Metro Police say filmmaker Dandhy Laksono did not attend a second interview concerning a complaint filed by Merauke Indigenous leader and environmental activist Yasinta Moiwend, and will be rescheduled. Moiwend says the film showed her without her permission, while Dandhy has criticised what he describes as an effort to divert public attention from colonialism in Papua.

Indonesian Migrant Worker Tortured by Malaysian Employers, Whipped and Scalded with Hot Water

An Indonesian domestic worker from Banten was rescued in Selangor after allegedly enduring three months of severe abuse, including beatings, burns and whipping. Malaysian police have detained five members of the employers’ family and the agent who arranged her employment, while the Indonesian Embassy is supporting her recovery and protection.

Police Prepare Escort for 61 Demonstration Sites in Jakarta Today

Jakarta Metro Police say 61 public demonstrations and 17 other community events are scheduled across the capital today. Officers, alongside the military and city authorities, will provide escorts and security, while urging participants and the wider public to maintain order and ensure the demonstrations proceed peacefully.

Mount Anak Krakatau Erupts Three Times on Wednesday Night

Mount Anak Krakatau in the Sunda Strait recorded three eruptions on Wednesday night, with the latest lasting more than nine minutes. The eruptions were detected by seismic instruments but were not visible, and monitoring staff continue to track the volcano’s activity.

Metro Jakarta Police Apologise After Officers Prevent Journalist from Covering HI Demonstration

Metro Jakarta Police have apologised after an officer stopped a journalist from reaching the Hotel Indonesia Roundabout to cover a demonstration on Wednesday. The force said the incident would be reviewed and attributed it to a communication failure, after video of the obstruction circulated on social media.

Indonesia to export mocaf as cassava prices rise

Indonesia plans to begin exporting mocaf next week after a ban on cassava imports helped lift farm-gate prices from as low as Rp700 to around Rp3,000 per kilogram, according to Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman. The government says developing cassava processing and downstream industries can create higher-value export products, strengthen demand for local crops and support jobs in producing regions.

Pejuang Merah Putih Demonstrators Visit Jokowi’s Home, Call for Gibran to Resign as Vice-President

A group calling itself Pejuang Merah Putih Indonesia delivered two letters near former president Joko Widodo’s home in Solo, urging him to persuade his son, Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, to resign. The group also challenged Jokowi’s characterisation of the controversy over their degrees as a political operation and warned that Gibran could face impeachment if he did not step down.

Deputy Finance Minister Highlights Three AI Risks, Urges Ministry Staff to Stay Alert

Deputy Finance Minister Nurkholisoh Ibnu Aman said AI could strengthen state-budget management, from identifying tax revenue opportunities to assessing public spending and forecasting financing risks. She also warned Ministry of Finance employees about deepfakes, over-reliance on AI and confidential data leaks, urging careful use without abandoning human judgement.

Two Years of Prabowo-Gibran: School Revitalisation from Aceh to Papua

The government says its school revitalisation programme has repaired more than 71,744 schools and is targeting 35,769 education units in 2026, backed by a Rp26 trillion allocation. Implemented through school-managed funding, the programme is intended to improve facilities—particularly in remote areas—while also supporting local economies through construction work and purchases from nearby suppliers.

Latest Prices for Three Gold Brands at Pegadaian Today

Gold prices listed on Pegadaian’s website at 11.03am WIB on Thursday were Rp2,499,000 per gram for Galeri24, Rp2,598,000 for Antam and Rp2,524,000 for UBS. Prices may change, and the brands are available in different weight ranges, from 0.5 grams to 1 kilogram depending on the product.

MPR Invites UIN Jakarta to Examine PPHN Draft, Emphasising Meaningful Youth Participation

Indonesia’s People’s Consultative Assembly (MPR) has presented a draft of the proposed State Policy Guidelines (PPHN) at a seminar with students from UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta, stressing the importance of meaningful public and youth participation. The draft sets out long-term priorities for human development, institutions and governance, and economic welfare, while considering three possible legal forms and complementing existing national and regional development plans.

Co-operatives Target Cooking Oil Refinery as Ministry Pushes Palm Oil Downstreaming

The Ministry of Co-operatives aims for Indonesia’s co-operative movement to establish its own cooking oil refinery by 2027, expanding smallholders’ role beyond plantation management and increasing their share of value from the palm oil industry. The plan includes marketing through village co-operative outlets and potential partnerships to manage land reclaimed under forest-area enforcement efforts.

Fleeing to the US, Flavio Bolsonaro claims to be Brazil’s legitimate president

Flavio Bolsonaro, who narrowly lost Brazil’s presidential election to Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, says from the United States that he is the country’s legitimate president and will lead the opposition. He alleges political persecution and electoral fraud but offers no evidence, while his flight despite a Supreme Court travel ban heightens tensions ahead of Lula’s inauguration.

Jakarta Builds Penganten Ali Retention Pond to Control Flooding in East Jakarta

Jakarta’s Water Resources Agency is building a 0.9-hectare retention pond in Ciracas to increase water-storage capacity and reduce flood risk in the surrounding area. The project will also provide green space and public facilities; construction is about 60 per cent complete and is targeted for completion on 15 December 2026.

Uma Palak Farmers’ Clean Energy Innovation Draws ASCOPE’s Attention

A renewable-energy irrigation system combining micro-hydro and solar power is helping farmers in Denpasar improve water management, reduce operating costs and power farm equipment. Pertamina has also supplied an electric rice mill, while the farming and tourism activities in Subak Sembung generate more than Rp585 million annually for a community of 185 farmers and over 400 local residents.

With 90% of Votes Counted, Netanyahu’s Coalition Holds Narrow Lead Over Opposition

With 89.8% of valid votes counted, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition is projected to hold 53 Knesset seats, against 48 for the opposition led by Gadi Eisenkot; Israeli Arab parties have secured the remaining 19. Neither bloc has reached the 61-seat threshold needed for a majority, leaving coalition negotiations—and the Arab parties’ potential kingmaker role—central as counting continues.

Singapore Targets 10 Companies Linked to Haze and Prepares Sanctions

Singapore plans to strengthen its cross-border haze law so it can compel companies suspected of links to fires to undergo independent investigations and penalise those that refuse to co-operate. The investigations will examine operations, corporate relationships and supply chains, with findings submitted to the National Environment Agency (NEA).

US Defence Secretary Urges Ambitious Defence Cooperation with ASEAN

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has proposed developing a practical US–ASEAN defence cooperation framework to guide collaboration over the coming years, as the bloc marks 50 years of relations with Washington next year. He said the United States would work with Singapore, the incoming ASEAN chair, to draft the framework; China’s defence minister did not attend this year’s meetings in Cebu City.

Liquidity Eased: Which Banks Stand to Benefit Most?

Bank Indonesia is easing banks’ reserve requirements to release liquidity while keeping its benchmark rate at 5.75% amid rupiah and inflationary pressures. The benefits may vary: some large state-owned banks have seen rapid deposit growth, but greater reliance on higher-cost time deposits and funding pressures at smaller lenders could limit the effect on lending rates.

Haji Isam-Linked JARR and PGUN Shares Slide Despite Being Pledged for Jumbo Bank Mandiri Loan

Shares in Jhonlin Agro Raya and Pradiksi Gunatama, both affiliated with businessman Andi Syamsuddin Arsyad (Haji Isam), fell 13.2% and 8.85% respectively over five trading days. The decline drew attention after Bank Mandiri disclosed a Rp40 trillion credit facility to Jhonlin Baratama, of which Rp17 trillion has been drawn; the bank said its lending assessment focused on the group’s existing coal-business cash flows, and the share movements do not by themselves establish a direct connection to the facility.