Fire Spreads from Kuningan to Majalengka

Forest and land fires (karhutla) in the Gunung Ciremai National Park (TNGC) area, Kuningan Regency, West Java, expanded on Friday (23/10/2026). The fire that was initially estimated to have burned around 5 hectares has now spread to dozens of hectares and crept into the Majalengka Regency area.

The Head of the Regional Disaster Mitigation Agency (BPBD) of Kuningan Regency, Indra Bayu, confirmed the fire had spread to the Majalengka area. Video recordings circulating on social media showed hotspots and plumes of smoke in the hilly area bordering the two regencies.

Chairman of the Silihwangi Majakuning Fire Care Community (MPA), Nandar Juniar Arif, said the fire moved from Grid 15 M of the Pasawahan Resort toward the Gunung Dulang and Tagog Anjing areas, which directly border the Masawah Block in Majalengka Regency. The fire's spread was reported to have occurred since Thursday night (22/10/2026), accelerated by dry land conditions and strong winds.

Steep Terrain and Wind Become Obstacles

Firefighting efforts have been hampered by several hotspots located at altitudes of more than 1,000 meters above sea level, making access difficult for personnel. "This is among the fairly large ones because it is at an altitude above 1,000 now," said Indra Bayu in the TNGC area, Friday (23/10/2026).

Besides rugged and rocky terrain, changes in wind direction and speed also affect the movement of the fire and make it difficult for personnel to determine an appropriate extinguishing method. The fire was initially spotted in a traditional zone area with community activity, but the exact cause of the blaze has not yet been confirmed.

Indra emphasized that the handling is prioritized to prevent the fire from spreading from the traditional zone to the jungle zone and up to the core zone of the TNGC area. The handling status remains an emergency alert and will be evaluated within the next one to two days.

Dedi Mulyadi Steps In, Prepares 3 Helicopters

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi came to monitor and help extinguish the fire at Mount Ciremai National Park on Thursday (22/10/2026). He called on communities and villagers to work together to create firebreaks to prevent the fire from spreading, with an honorarium of Rp250,000 per person per day for those involved.

Dedi also coordinated the creation of artificial rain with BMKG and prepared three helicopters for water bombing operations. "And finally today the helicopters will soon depart from Bogor, one to Kertajati, two to Sukani Majalengka Base," said Dedi, Friday (23/10/2026). The deployment of helicopters was carried out after he coordinated with the Deputy Minister of Defense, the TNI Commander, and the Chief of Staff of the Air Force.

Dedi claimed the fire in the Mount Ciremai area has begun to be brought under control after its spread was successfully isolated, but firefighting efforts have not been halted because all hotspots must be confirmed as handled to prevent them from flaring up again.

100 Combined Personnel Deployed

A joint force of around 100 personnel was deployed to handle the fire, consisting of the Kuningan Regency BPBD, West Java BPBD, Mount Ciremai National Park Center (BTNGC), Fire Care Community, TNI/Polri, Satpol PP, Kuningan Regency Fire Department, nature lover community volunteers, and local residents.

West Java Province's Public Relations reported that joint personnel had successfully extinguished some of the hotspots in the TNGC area. Firebreaks have also been created along the fire's edge to prevent it from spreading to dense vegetation areas.

Danantara Enters the Market

Indonesia's sovereign wealth fund Danantara has officially stepped in to calm the capital market. The fund announced it has begun buying shares on the Indonesia Stock Exchange over the past two days, with a primary focus on state-owned enterprise (SOE) stocks it deems to have strong fundamentals and attractive valuations.

The announcement was made by Danantara Chief Investment Officer Pandu Patria Sjahrir during a Coffee Morning Session at Wisma Danantara, Jakarta, Thursday (22/10/2026). According to Pandu, the decision to buy was taken after assessing a gap between issues developing in the market and the fundamental conditions of the listed issuer.

"Since yesterday and today, we have started buying stocks that we consider effective, and we will continue as long as the prices are attractive and the prospects are good," said Pandu.

Response to MSCI Pressure

Danantara's buying action came amid heavy selling pressure triggered by an MSCI warning on Friday (16/10/2026). The global index provider raised the possibility of downgrading Indonesia's stock market classification from Emerging Market to Standalone Market, which sparked concerns among foreign investors.

On October 16, the JCI plunged around 11.6 percent in a single trading day. Pressure continued into the start of the week, with the index briefly touching the 4,996 level on Monday (10/19/2026).

Pandu assesses that the issues developing in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, differ from the condition of companies listed on the Indonesian capital market. Therefore, Danantara evaluates each company based on its own fundamentals. "We are always profit-oriented. From a risk-reward perspective, we see attractive opportunities at present," he said.

Through Professional Investment Managers

Managing Director of Investment at PT Danantara Investment Management Stefanus Ade Hadiwidjaja explained that Danantara does not pick stocks directly. The institution partners with professional investment managers, both domestic and international, who have previously passed a thorough due diligence process.

The buy signal was actually conveyed earlier by Danantara Chief Operating Officer Dony Oskaria on Monday (19/10/2026). "If it's good, we buy, especially BUMN shares. We will increase our ownership," Dony said at the time.

In Thursday's trading session (22/10/2026), the IHSG showed a recovery. After opening lower by as much as 2 percent, the index reversed course to gain around 1 percent to the level of 5,381.43 at 09:56 WIB. Danantara emphasized that purchases will continue as long as opportunities with attractive risk-reward profiles remain available.

Guarantee for Regional Heads

President Prabowo Subianto assured regional leaders that funding flows from the central government to the regions will not be reduced. The guarantee was delivered directly before governors, regents, and mayors attending the 2026 National Coordination Meeting (Rakornas) of the Regional Financial Access Acceleration Team (TPAKD) at JIExpo Kemayoran, Central Jakarta, on Thursday (10/22/2026).

Prabowo asked regional leaders not to worry because money flowing to regencies would not be cut, pledging to prove it. He even promised that fund disbursements to regions would be larger next year. 'And in the coming year, I believe we will disburse even more,' he added.

Goal: Driving the Economy and Prosperity

Prabowo explained that increasing budget allocations to regions aims to drive the wheels of the economy while improving public welfare, directing all potential toward achieving a prosperous society. He stressed that public welfare is his primary objective as president.

The most poignant remarks came when he tied his presidency to the condition of the people. 'I want to be president to see my people prosper. If being president means my people remain poor, I do not want to be president. I would be ashamed. Better that I not be president,' he said, met with applause from regional heads.

Pride of Regional Leaders

Closing his address, Prabowo advised that the true pride of a regional leader comes when people smile during visits. He considered the public's smiles when leaders directly visit the field to be proof of a successful mandate.

The 2026 Rakornas TPAKD itself served as a central-regional coordination forum to accelerate regional financial access, which this year positioned poverty alleviation and local economic strengthening as top priorities. This guarantee of increased transfer funds is expected to provide fiscal certainty for regional governments in designing development programs and public services next year, particularly for regions that have relied on central transfers as the backbone of their Regional Revenues and Expenditures Budgets (APBD).

Drama-Filled First Half

Juventus failed to win at home. Hosting Stade Rennais on matchday 3 of the 2026/2027 UEFA Europa League league phase at Allianz Stadium, Thursday (23/10/2026) early morning WIB, the Bianconeri had to settle for a 2-2 draw with the visitors from France.

Juventus struck early through Zeki Çelik in the 5th minute. But Rennes turned the game around before half-time: Mousa Al Tamari levelled in the 15th minute from Bryan Reynolds' pass, before Boulaye Dia converted a penalty in the 43rd minute to put the visitors 2-1 up. Çelik's early strike briefly had Allianz Stadium roaring, but Rennes' two replies silenced the home crowd.

Woltemade's Penalty Rescues a Point

Juventus hit back after the break. The hosts' pressure paid off in the 67th minute when Nick Woltemade calmly converted a penalty to make it 2-2. The score held until the final whistle despite Juventus pushing for a winner, including a VAR check in the 89th minute. Woltemade, on loan at Juventus from Newcastle United since the summer, rescued his side once again.

Federico Gatti's 19th-minute booking, goalkeeper Brice Samba's 20th-minute injury — he returned a minute later — and Al Tamari's 32nd-minute injury all marked the game. Rennes stayed disciplined in a 5-3-2 shape and nearly stole the win on the counter.

Seven Points from Three Games

The draw takes Juventus to seven points from three league-phase games, after a 5-0 win over NEC Nijmegen and a 2-1 victory at Celta Vigo. Rennes have five points from a goalless draw with Sturm Graz, a 2-1 win over OFI Crete, and the draw in Turin.

Failing to win at home is a concern for Juventus, who also lost 0-3 to Lazio in Serie A last weekend. Statistically, Juventus edged possession 51%-49% and both sides earned five corners, while Rennes actually managed more shots on target (5 to 4). A packed schedule awaits, with no less demanding away fixtures in both domestic and European competition.

Starting Monday, BYD Vehicles Turned Away at Kadena Gates

The United States' Kadena Air Base in Okinawa, Japan, will turn away all BYD electric vehicles starting Monday (10/26/2026). This zero-exception ban was reported by South Korea's Yonhap news agency on Friday (10/23/2026), citing a US military official stationed in Japan.

The policy covers vehicles belonging to base personnel, contractors, commercial entities, and even taxis. The US military in Japan has not provided official confirmation of this report, and BYD has not responded to requests for comment.

Cameras and Sensors Prompt Security Concerns

According to Yonhap, security concerns center on the cameras and sensors installed on BYD vehicles. US officials assess that these devices could potentially collect and leak sensitive security information from inside the base.

The ban follows an action by the US Department of Defense in June 2026 adding BYD—alongside Alibaba, Baidu, and NIO—to a list of companies allegedly aiding the Chinese military. BYD denied the allegations, calling them groundless. Alibaba has even sued the US government, while China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs protested the list as discriminatory and unreasonable.

A similar situation has emerged in South Korea: around 190 Chinese-made connected vehicles, including BYD models, have reportedly entered South Korean military facilities—ranging from the Ministry of National Defense to an F-35 fighter jet base. South Korea's Defense Ministry is now preparing restrictions through amendments to defense security directives. The United Kingdom had also previously restricted Chinese-technology vehicles within its ministerial fleet.

Dome Stage Ready Two Days Before Concert

JAKARTA — Promoter Raw Vision Collective has confirmed that the viral 360-degree dome stage (globe) belonging to Kanye West is ready to be installed at Gelora Bung Karno (GBK) Main Stadium, Senayan, Central Jakarta. The giant spherical stage will be used for the concert titled YE Live in Jakarta on Saturday, October 24, 2026.

The news of the stage readiness was delivered by Marketing & Communications Lead of Raw Vision Collective, Karen Tjahja, at a press conference in the SCBD area, South Jakarta, Thursday (22/10/2026). According to her, the concert production preparations have been going very well and all performance needs have been prepared.

Globe Specs Same as Other Countries

Karen ensured that the size of the globe used in Jakarta was exactly the same as on Ye's stage in other countries, so the audience would not get a smaller experience. "And the size of the globe is exactly the same as in other countries," said Karen.

He also revealed the challenges of bringing the dome stage to Indonesia. Ye's team was said to be directly involved in production preparations with highly detailed specifications, while all the globe props were flown in specifically from abroad.

Regarding stage readiness, Karen said she had directly seen the condition of the globe inside the closed preparation area for recording. "With my own eyes last night, the globe was already ready," she said.

Besides the main stage, the promoter has set up additional LED screens so that the audience can watch Ye's performance from various angles of GBK Main Stadium.

Layered Security and Extended Transport

Ahead of the concert, Raw Vision Collective deployed more than 2,000 security personnel stationed from inside the ring road to inside the stadium. The promoter also coordinated with the DKI Jakarta Provincial Government and the National Police Headquarters to ensure the security and smooth running of the event.

Security is a top priority as several other events are taking place in the GBK area in close succession. The promoter has coordinated with organizers of other events to anticipate congestion.

To reduce congestion, spectators are urged to use public transportation. MRT Jakarta is extending operating hours until 01:30 WIB on the concert day, accompanied by increased trip frequency for the return flow. TransJakarta is adding trip frequency and bus capacity, while Bluebird Group is adding taxi fleets inside the event area.

Premiere and Only Concert in Southeast Asia

The October 24, 2026 concert will mark the debut performance of Ye — the stage name of Kanye West — in Indonesia. Jakarta is also the only Southeast Asian city included in Ye's official tour, making this concert a magnet for fans from various countries.

Official concert tickets are on sale starting at Rp1,875,000 via yejakarta.com and Loket.com.

Rp200 Billion in the First Tranche

President Prabowo Subianto has allocated Rp240 billion in presidential aid (Banpres) to fight forest and land fires (karhutla) in West Kalimantan. The funds are disbursed in stages to the provincial government and affected regencies and cities.

Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni said the first tranche reached Rp200 billion for the provincial government and 10 regencies/cities in West Kalimantan. "It was transferred directly to the Governor (of West Kalimantan, Ria Rosa) and the relevant regents," he said in a statement on Friday (10/23/2026).

Four More Regencies Get Rp10 Billion Each

After the initial disbursement, the Forestry Ministry submitted another aid request to the President for areas not covered in the first tranche. The additional request took into account the differing levels of fire escalation across regions.

President Prabowo approved aid for four regencies: Mempawah, Landak, Sekadau, and Sanggau. Each received Rp10 billion, transferred to the regional government accounts on October 21, 2026, two days before the official announcement. "So the total presidential aid for forest-fire handling is Rp240 billion," said Raja Juli.

Managed by Regions, Part of Rp1.235 Trillion

Raja Juli reminded regional governments to use the funds optimally and in line with their intended purpose. "In accordance with the circular already issued by the Home Affairs Minister (Tito Karnavian)," he said. The aid is managed directly by regional governments and is separate from central-government efforts, including weather modification operations (OMC) and water bombing.

Firefighting efforts also involve the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB), the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG), the Forestry Ministry, and other related ministries and agencies.

The West Kalimantan aid is part of a Rp1.235 trillion disbursement to seven provinces and 35 affected regencies/cities. Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture Sugiono said the second tranche was transferred on Thursday (10/22/2026), following the first on September 7, 2026. The seven recipient provinces are South Sumatra, Jambi, Central Kalimantan, West Kalimantan, South Kalimantan, East Kalimantan, and Riau.

Hundreds of Millions Seized at Central Java BPK Office

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) searched the Central Java Provincial Representative Office of the Supreme Audit Agency (BPK) in Semarang and two related private residences on Thursday (22/10/2026). The searches were an expansion of the investigation into suspected corruption within the Klaten Regency Government involving suspended Klaten Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo.

KPK Spokesperson Budi Prasetyo stated that investigators discovered and confiscated hundreds of millions of rupiah in cash at the Central Java BPK office. In addition to cash, investigators secured documents and electronic evidence from the three searched locations.

Alleged Bribery to Remove Rp5 Billion Audit Findings

According to Budi, the evidence is suspected to be linked to bribery intended to wipe out BPK audit findings in Klaten Regency. A Central Java BPK audit in April 2026 uncovered honorarium overpayments totaling around Rp5 billion within the Klaten Regency Administration (Pemkab).

KPK previously revealed that Central Java BPK Representative Head Ahmad Luthfi H Rahmatullah allegedly demanded Rp600 million from Hamenang to remove those two findings from the audit report. Following negotiations, a sum of Rp400 million was agreed upon using the communication code 'AMIDIS'. In June 2026, BPK issued the audit report without the two findings.

Five Clusters, Three Suspects

The case originated from a KPK sting operation on 15 October 2026 that apprehended Hamenang, Ahmad Luthfi, and 21 other individuals. A day later, KPK named three suspects: Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo, Ahmad Luthfi H Rahmatullah, and private sector party Muhammad Amin Wahyu Utomo from PT Madani Winasis Creative.

KPK noted there are five clusters of alleged corruption: bribery to manipulate the BPK audit, goods and services procurement, Type C mineral mining permits, kickbacks from Regional Apparatus Organizations/Regional Work Units (OPD/SKPD), and levies related to tax collection fees. The investigation remains ongoing to trace fund flows and the relevance of the seized evidence.

One BMW Seized from Richard Erlangga on Friday

The KPK (Corruption Eradication Commission) seized a BMW car from suspect Richard Erlangga (RIC) in an investigation into alleged corruption involving disaster Ready-to-Use Funds (DSP) at the BNPB (National Disaster Management Agency). The seizure took place on Friday (23/10/2026).

"In the continuation of the investigation into alleged criminal corruption within BNPB, today investigators seized another BMW car from suspect RIC," KPK spokesperson Budi Prasetyo stated in a written release, Friday (23/10/2026).

The vehicle has been taken to the KPK Building in the Kuningan area, South Jakarta. With this latest seizure, the total number of vehicles secured in the case stands at four. Budi emphasized that investigators will analyze the findings to strengthen the evidence needed to uncover the case thoroughly.

Three Cars Previously Seized from Bima Setiawan's Residence

Previously, investigators seized three luxury cars during a series of searches at the residence of suspect Bima Setiawan (BMS) and several related parties across Jakarta between 15–19 October 2026. The three vehicles include an AION electric car, a BYD Atto 3 Superior, and a BMW luxury sedan.

Bima Setiawan is an expert staff member and the younger brother of former BNPB Head Lt. Gen. TNI (Indonesian National Armed Forces) Suharyanto, while Richard Erlangga is a former expert staff member to the former BNPB Head. The two seized BMW cars belonged to each of the two suspects respectively.

Background: October 13 Sting Operation, Five Suspects Detained

This case was uncovered through a KPK sting operation (OTT, red-handed arrest) on 13 October 2026, in which 14 people were secured. The KPK subsequently named five suspects: Bima Setiawan, Richard Erlangga, Gabriel Purwaka Sigit as Head and Commitment-Making Officer (PPK) of the BNPB Directorate Sub-directorate for Aid and Emergency Fund Management, as well as two private sector individuals, Syifa Nrika Ghifarin and Gery Prasetiawan. The five suspects are undergoing an initial 20-day detention at the KPK Branch Detention Center from 14 October to 2 November 2026.

The case relates to alleged bid-rigging in BNPB goods and services procurement projects funded by disaster DSP for the 2024–2026 period, with a total value reaching approximately Rp148 miliar. On 16 October 2026, the KPK also seized evidence valued at Rp5,47 miliar in the form of Indonesian rupiah cash and foreign currency, 56 pieces of gold weighing 133 grams, 192 grams of gold savings, and crypto assets.

Searching for a President at the National Coordination Meeting

An interesting moment occurred at the 2026 National Coordination Meeting of the Regional Financial Access Acceleration Team (Rakornas TPAKD) at JIExpo Kemayoran, Jakarta, Thursday (22/10/2026). President Prabowo Subianto, who was conducting a roll call of governors and deputy governors, suddenly questioned the absence of West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi.

"Mana Dedi Mulyadi? The one closest to here isn't present, must be busy," said Prabowo. In fact, West Java is the province located closest to the event venue. At the forum, Dedi was only represented by his deputy governor.

Not stopping there, Prabowo also took a jab at East Kalimantan Deputy Governor Seno Aji, whose name was listed on the attendance sheet but who did not appear when called. "Well, this is noted, the travel allowance must be returned," Prabowo said firmly, met with laughter from the attendees.

Dedi's Reason: Handling Forest and Land Fires in Ciremai

A day later, Friday (23/10/2026), Dedi Mulyadi spoke out through a video uploaded to his official Instagram account. He explained his absence was because he was handling forest and land fires (karhutla) on Mount Ciremai.

"I was summoned by the President during the briefing because I was absent. The handling of the Mount Ciremai fire is a top priority on the advice of the State Secretary," said Dedi. He added that he had reported the handling to the Cabinet Secretary.

According to Dedi, the handling of the Ciremai forest and land fires is going well. The fire, he said, has been isolated and has not spread to the forest area. He claimed that the day before, he immediately called the Deputy Minister of Defense while inspecting the location, who then coordinated with all ranks.

3 Helicopters and 1,000 Personnel Deployed

Dedi detailed the deployment of aerial assistance to extinguish the fire. Three water bombing helicopters were dispatched from Bogor today, with one unit heading to Kertajati and two units to Lanud Sukani in Majalengka.

Dedi said he had coordinated with the TNI Commander and the Air Force Chief of Staff the previous night, allowing three water bombing helicopters to be deployed from Bogor today.

In addition, a total of 1,000 joint personnel consisting of residents, TNI, Polri, and volunteers were deployed to utilize both natural and artificial canals in the firefighting effort. Dedi hopes that the optimization of these canals can prevent the fire from spreading should another blaze occur in the future.

Search in Semarang, One Electric BMW Seized

Investigators from the KPK (Corruption Eradication Commission) searched the house of Ashraff Abu in Semarang, Central Java, on Friday (23/10/2026). Ashraff is a member of the DPR RI (House of Representatives of the Republic of Indonesia) from the Golkar faction and the husband of inactive Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq.

During the search, investigators seized an electric-powered BMW car. 'During the search, investigators among others seized one four-wheeled vehicle, an electric BMW,' KPK Spokesperson Budi Prasetyo told journalists in Jakarta, Friday (23/10/2026).

The search targeted Ashraff's home in his capacity as Commissioner of PT Raja Nusantara Berjaya for the 2023–2024 period. The vehicle will be further traced for its connection to the case under investigation.

Budi Prasetyo: TPPU Development in Pekalongan Case

Budi explained that the search and seizure were part of the development of an investigation into alleged TPPU (money laundering offenses) related to corruption within the Pekalongan Regency Government environment.

'The coercive search and seizure measures by investigators are part of tracing evidence regarding alleged money laundering from proceeds of corruption related to conflicts of interest in goods and services procurement and other receipts in the Pekalongan Regency Government,' he said.

The KPK issued a new sprindik (investigation order) for this TPPU development in October 2026. Until the search was conducted, no suspects had been named in the case development.

Day Before, Ashraff Absent from KPK Summons

A day before the search, on Thursday (22/10/2026), Ashraff did not fulfill a KPK summons as a witness in the TPPU investigation. 'Correct, the person concerned confirmed that he could not attend the previous examination because of another pre-scheduled agenda,' said Budi.

This case originated from an OTT (hand-catching operation / sting operation) conducted by the KPK against Fadia Arafiq on March 3, 2026. A day later, Fadia was named the sole suspect in an alleged corruption case concerning the procurement of outsourcing services and other procurements within the Pekalongan Regency Government for the 2023–2026 Fiscal Years.

Fadia is currently undergoing trial. Public prosecutors have demanded a sentence of five years in prison along with replacement money of Rp2.69 billion.

Lima Echelon I Officials Inaugurated in Djuanda Hall

Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara inaugurated five senior high-ranking officials, or echelon I, within the Ministry of Finance (Kemenkeu) on Friday (23/10/2026). The inauguration took place at 10.00 WIB in the Djuanda Hall, Djuanda I Building Mezzanine Floor, Kemenkeu, Jakarta.

The appointment and dismissal of these officials were stipulated through Decree of the President of the Republic of Indonesia Number 141/TPA of 2026 concerning the Dismissal and Appointment from and within Senior Executive Leadership Positions in the Ministry of Finance.

“With praise and gratitude to God Almighty, for His blessings and guidance, today, Friday, October 23, 2026, I, the Minister of Finance, hereby officially inaugurate you in your new positions within the Ministry of Finance,” Suahasil said in his remarks.

Complete List of Five Officials Inaugurated

Astera Primanto Bhakti has been appointed Secretary General of the Finance Ministry, replacing Robert Leonard Marbun. Astera previously served as Director General of Treasury, and the position he left is now entrusted to Tri Budhianto.

Changes also occurred at the Directorate General of Fiscal Balance. Nufransa Wira Sakti was appointed director general, replacing Askolani. Nufransa previously served as Expert Staff for Tax Supervision and concurrently as President Commissioner of PT Sarana Multigriya Finansial (SMF).

Two expert staff positions filled by new officials. The position of Expert Staff in Tax Supervision left by Nufransa is now held by Neilmaldrin Noor, former Head of the Tax Regional Office in several regions. Meanwhile, Hidayat Amir was inaugurated as Expert Staff in Macro Economics and International Finance.

Second Reshuffle Since Suahasil Took Office

“This morning’s inauguration is part of the Ministry of Finance’s journey to continue adapting and strengthening the organization,” said Suahasil. He asked Astera to optimize the role of the Secretariat General as the driver of coordination across all units, covering human resources, budget, organization, legal, communications, and internal asset management.

Since officially taking office as Minister of Finance on September 14, 2026, Suahasil has twice reshuffled the lineup of officials within the Ministry of Finance. Previously, on September 21, 2026, he inaugurated 14 senior executive officials as well as a number of officials at the Secretariat of the Financial System Stability Committee (KSSK).

Suahasil also reminded that the oath of office is not merely a formality, but a commitment that must be accounted for in carrying out the duties of managing state finances.

Why Indonesian Nickel Is in High Global Demand

Nearly every electric vehicle driving on the world's roads today carries Indonesian nickel in its battery. United States Geological Survey (USGS) data indicates that Indonesia holds the world's largest nickel reserves—roughly 42 percent of global reserves, or 55 million metric tons.

Its dominance is even greater in terms of production: in 2024, Indonesia mined 2.31 million metric tons of nickel, accounting for approximately 62 percent of global supply. Nickel is a vital component of NCM-type lithium-ion battery cathodes, determining energy density and electric vehicle range.

The 2020 Export Ban That Redrew the Map

The turning point arrived in January 2020, when President Joko Widodo banned raw nickel ore exports. This downstreaming policy forced international firms to construct domestic smelters to access Indonesia's nickel.

The results were striking: export values for nickel and its derivatives jumped from US$6 billion to US$30 billion in 2022. Industrial zones like Indonesia Morowali Industrial Park (IMIP) in Central Sulawesi now process 500,000 metric tons of nickel annually and employ over 90,000 workers. HPAL (High-Pressure Acid Leach) technology converts laterite ore into mixed hydroxide precipitate (MHP)—a key raw material for electric vehicle batteries.

Investment waves continue, including the US$3.8 billion Pomalaa HPAL facility, a joint venture among Huayou Cobalt, Ford, and Vale Indonesia that feeds directly into global automaker supply chains.

From Smelters to Battery Plants

The pinnacle of downstream processing is taking shape in Karawang, West Java. On June 29, 2025, President Prabowo Subianto broke ground on the electric vehicle battery ecosystem project of PT Contemporary Amperex Technology Indonesia Battery (CATIB)—a joint venture between Indonesia Battery Corporation (IBC) and the CBL consortium (CATL, Brunp, and Lygend).

The US$5.9 billion project encompasses six subprojects from upstream to downstream: nickel mining, an HPAL smelter, smelting, precursor and cathode manufacturing, battery recycling, and battery cell and module assembly. An initial capacity of 6.9 GWh is slated to expand to 15 GWh.

"It is ready for inauguration. We are merely awaiting the right time from the President," said Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM - Energi dan Sumber Daya Mineral) Bahlil Lahadalia. CATIB is Indonesia's second battery ecosystem plant following the Hyundai-LG facility (HLI Green Power).

Challenges Behind the Nickel Boom

Yet Indonesia's path to becoming a premier global battery player faces hurdles. Global nickel prices fluctuate, and several EV makers are pivoting to iron-based LFP battery chemistry, which uses no nickel. Environmental issues and technology transfer also draw scrutiny—capital inflows are massive, but mastery over technology does not automatically transfer.

The government maintains ambitious goals: the Ministry of Industry roadmap targets 600,000 four-wheeled electric vehicles and 2.45 million two-wheeled electric units by 2030. If achieved, Indonesia will no longer be just a raw material supplier, but a full-fledged player in the global electric vehicle supply chain.

Wall Street Plunges as AI Bubble Fears Return

United States stock markets experienced a massive sell-off during Thursday trading. The S&P 500 closed down 1.21% at 7,663.43, while the Nasdaq slumped 2.60% to 26,008.86. Only the Dow Jones remained in the green with a slight gain of 0.02% to 52,867.98.

Concerns over the sustainability of massive investment returns in the artificial intelligence (AI) sector reemerged as the primary trigger for the decline. Investors digested earnings reports from tech firms and questioned their ability to bear the financing risks of AI expansion.

Meta Platforms shares sank 7% despite reporting higher-than-expected profits and revenue, driven by record-high credit risk and jumbo capital expenditure plans. Pressure also hit Nvidia, which slid 4.4%, Alphabet down 3.2%, Microsoft falling 2.2%, Amazon dropping 4.6%, and Tesla slipping 3.1%.

Brent Surges to US$113.17, Highest Since May

In commodity markets, crude oil prices jumped sharply amid Middle East geopolitical tensions. Brent crude surged 4% to US$113.17 per barrel, while WTI rose 2.39% to US$99.47 per barrel.

On Friday morning trading, Brent traded at US$114.47 per barrel — its highest level since May 4 — and was heading for a third consecutive weekly gain, according to Reuters. Markets reassessed geopolitical risk premiums following Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia and tensions around Bab el-Mandeb.

Saudi Aramco on Thursday ordered the evacuation of its headquarters in Dhahran amid intensifying fighting between Saudi Arabia and the Iran-backed Houthis. An ING analyst noted that the market is increasingly worried about further escalation in the Persian Gulf threatening global oil flows.

Reported Plans for Strikes on Iran Spark Panic

Pressure on tech stocks mounted following a report by The New York Times that the United States and Israel had drawn up plans to strike Iran again after next month's United States midterm elections.

United States President Donald Trump also stated that Washington is not negotiating with Tehran and indicated that developments regarding Iran would occur in the near future. Concerns over potential conflict escalation raised risks of global energy supply disruptions.

The surge in energy prices added uncertainty to inflation outlooks and corporate operating costs. If the oil rally proves prolonged, companies will face steeper cost pressures while consumers could curtail spending due to expensive fuel.

Investors Flee to Bonds, Asian Markets Under Pressure

Amid the equity sell-off, investors shifted to United States government bonds seeking shelter. The 10-year Treasury yield dropped 17 basis points to 4.95%, breaking below the 5% threshold for the first time since September 23.

Volatility spilled over into Asia during Friday trading. South Korea's Kospi sank 3.52% to 5,533.77, Japan's Nikkei 225 fell 2.65% to 62,907.84, and Hong Kong's Hang Seng dropped 3.00% to 22,934.68, tracking regional market downturns.

Meanwhile, Libya shut pipeline valves from the Hamada and Tahara fields to the port of Zawiya, curtailing output at both locations. For global markets, the combination of AI financing uncertainty and Middle East conflict threats serves as a reminder that technology growth prospects must be evaluated alongside funding risks, equity valuations, and changing energy costs.

Two-Year Achievements

The government recorded total investment realization during the two years of President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka's administration reaching Rp3,923.2 trillion. The figure was announced by Minister of Investment and Downstreaming/Head of the Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM) Rosan Perkasa Roeslani in a press statement at the Merdeka Palace, Jakarta, Monday (19/10/2026).

"This is the investment realization achievement over two years of President Prabowo's administration. The calculation starts from the fourth quarter of 2024, throughout 2025, and the first to third quarters of 2026," said Rosan. The government uses this calculation period as the measure of two years of administration, not two full calendar years.

The achievement of Rp3,923.2 trillion is equivalent to 30.1 percent of the total investment need for 2025–2029 set by Bappenas at Rp13,032.8 trillion. According to Rosan, the investment that has flowed in has also absorbed 5,485,944 Indonesian workers.

Outside Java Is Larger Than Java

In terms of regional distribution, investment outside Java was recorded as larger than in Java. Investment outside Java reached Rp2,031 trillion, or 51.8 percent of the total, while Java accounted for Rp1,892.2 trillion, or 48.2 percent — a difference of Rp138.8 trillion.

Based on the source of capital, domestic investment (PMDN) and foreign investment (PMA) contributed almost equally. PMDN was recorded at Rp1,998.7 trillion, or 50.9 percent, while PMA stood at Rp1,924.5 trillion, or 49.1 percent.

Rosan assessed that the even distribution outside Java shows that equitable development is starting to take shape. The government also recorded investment realization from January–September 2026 at Rp1,539.2 trillion, growing 7.3 percent compared to the same period last year and reaching 75.4 percent of the 2026 target of Rp2,041.3 trillion.

Target 2029 and Investment Quality

Going forward, Bappenas has set an investment requirement of Rp13,032.8 trillion through 2029 to support the 8 percent economic growth target. Rosan said the targets assigned to him so far have been met. "Alhamdulillah, the targets set by Bappenas for the Minister of Investment and Downstreaming have so far been achieved," he said.

The government promises to improve investment quality by strengthening the business climate, accelerating downstreaming, and promoting national industrialization. One of the steps is integrating the licensing system across 28 ministries and institutions. "What investors seek most is certainty. That is what we are striving for — reducing uncertainty in licensing, time, and the investment climate," said Rosan.

The investment achievements over the past two years have become one of the public's evaluation points for the Prabowo-Gibran administration, amid scrutiny over recent capital market pressures and weakening purchasing power.

5,442 Indonesian Citizens in France, No Casualties

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Kemlu) confirmed that no Indonesian citizens (WNI - Warga Negara Indonesia) have fallen victim to the widespread wave of demonstrations across Europe. Kemlu's Director for the Protection of Indonesian Citizens, Heni Hamidah, stated that 5,442 Indonesian nationals are registered in France, and as of Thursday (10/22/2026), none have been injured or affected.

Kemlu also emphasized that an official travel warning has not yet been issued for the countries affected by the protests. However, Kemlu urged all Indonesian citizens to heighten vigilance, stay away from demonstration sites and crowds, adjust travel plans in anticipation of transportation disruptions, and follow instructions from local authorities.

For Indonesian citizens requiring emergency assistance, Kemlu provided hotlines for the Indonesian Embassy (KBRI - Kedutaan Besar Republik Indonesia) in Paris at +33-6-2112-2109 and KBRI Rome at +39-338-954-2333.

Protests Spread Across Four Countries

The wave of protests against rising living costs reached its peak on Saturday (10/17/2026). The movement began as protests by high school and university students over education quality on September 18, 2026, before expanding into a 'convergence of struggles': the Italian General Confederation of Labour (CGIL), the Yellow Vests movement, laborers, left-wing groups, and climate activists all took to the streets.

Demonstrations were recorded in France (Paris, Nancy, Limoges, Marseille, Lyon, Lille, Bordeaux), Belgium (Brussels, Liège), Italy (Milan, Rome, Turin, Bologna), and Portugal (Lisbon). In France, around 550,000 people took to the streets according to the Ministry of the Interior (Kemendagri - Kementerian Dalam Negeri), while the CGT union claimed 800,000, including 110,000 in Paris. Between 1,200 and 2,500 people were arrested, and 150 police officers were reported injured. In Belgium, 195 people were arrested amid tear gas and water cannons; in Italy, clashes broke out at Piazza del Duomo, Milan, and Rome. Around 1,500 shops were damaged and the Limoges town hall was set on fire. The French government even imposed curfews in several cities on October 19, 2026.

The triggers were varied: soaring living and fuel costs, shortages of teachers and educational funding, and declining public services. In Italy, the protests were framed as 'No Meloni Day' and anti-war demonstrations, while in Portugal, protesters highlighted housing prices that had doubled since 2017. Some demonstrations culminated in riots, looting, and arson by opportunistic rioters.

Indonesians Barred from Joining Protests

Minister of Foreign Affairs (Menlu) Arrmanatha Nasir emphasized that Indonesian citizens are prohibited from participating in demonstrations or interfering in local political affairs in their host countries. Indonesian nationals were instructed to focus on their respective study and work activities.

This advisory serves as a practical guide for thousands of Indonesian citizens in Europe: avoid crowds, monitor developments through official sources, prepare contingency travel plans, and immediately contact the KBRI hotline in emergency situations.

DNKK Officially Established

President Prabowo Subianto officially inaugurated the formation of the National Financial Welfare Council (Dewan Nasional Kesejahteraan Keuangan or DNKK) during the 2026 National Coordination Meeting (Rakornas) of the Regional Financial Access Acceleration Team (Tim Percepatan Akses Keuangan Daerah or TPAKD) at the JIExpo Convention Centre, Kemayoran, Jakarta, on Thursday (22/10/2026). The inauguration was marked by pressing a siren button alongside attending regional leaders.

"By reciting bismillahirrahmanirrahim, this afternoon, Thursday, October 22, 2026... I officially inaugurate the establishment of the National Financial Welfare Council," Prabowo stated. DNKK is chaired directly by the President, with Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto serving as daily chief. The deputy chairs are Friderica Widyasari Dewi (Financial Services Authority or OJK), Destry Damayanti (Governor of Bank Indonesia or BI), Tito Karnavian (Minister of Home Affairs or Mendagri), and Suahasil Nazara (Vice Minister of Finance). This institution was previously named the National Council for Inclusive Finance, which was subsequently restructured under Government Regulation Number 42 of 2026.

Credit Target of Rp400 Trillion for 28 Million Families

On that occasion, Prabowo outlined the disbursement achievements of productive credit amounting to Rp53.15 trillion to 2,106,401 debtors between August and October 2026. Next year, the disbursement target is set significantly higher: Rp400 trillion for approximately 28 million families.

Currently, there are 552 TPAKD units spread across provinces, regencies, and cities. The public financial literacy rate is recorded at 69 percent, while financial inclusion has reached 93 percent — surpassing the National Medium-Term Development Plan (RPJMN) target of 93 percent set for 2029.

"We will now focus on moving the economy not only from the top; we want to move the economy from the bottom, from the regions," said Prabowo, aligned with this year's Rakornas theme: 'Sustainable Acceleration of Financial Access for the Welfare of the Indonesian People'.

TPAKD serves as an engine accelerating financial access across regions, ranging from micro and small business financing to financial education for rural communities. With DNKK's new structure, Prabowo aims to ensure that the ambitious credit disbursement target genuinely reaches the people's economy at the grassroots level.

A Joke for Chief of Staff Sigit

The most talked-about moment occurred when Prabowo greeted Presidential Chief of Staff (Kepala Staf Kepresidenan or KSP) Police General Listyo Sigit Prabowo — the former National Police Chief (Kapolri) who was inaugurated as KSP on October 1, 2026. While introducing Sigit before the attendees, Prabowo joked about sharing the same last name.

"Because his name is Prabowo, he shouldn't be far away. Just stay close," Prabowo quipped, drawing laughter from the attending governors, regents, and mayors.

Latest Casualties and Damage

At least 16 people were killed and 32 others injured when a magnitude 7.0 earthquake struck northern Tibet on Thursday (10/22/2026) night local time, according to Chinese state media cited by CNN, NDTV, and Reuters. The official figures were released by the Nagqu city media office, citing municipal government officials.

A total of 339 homes reportedly collapsed due to the shaking, and rescue teams from police and fire departments continue setting up emergency tents to shelter displaced residents. The overall extent of the damage is still being assessed by local authorities.

Level II Emergency Response

The China Earthquake Administration activated a Level II emergency response — the country's second-highest tier. Railway authorities suspended train services passing through the affected area, according to a report by state broadcaster CCTV (China Central Television).

The main shock struck at 10:33 p.m. local time, with an epicenter roughly 183–191 kilometers east-northeast of Nagqu city, in a plateau region with an average elevation exceeding 4,800 meters. A magnitude 5.2 aftershock was recorded about 45 minutes later, according to data from the USGS (United States Geological Survey).

Strongest Earthquake Since January 2024

This earthquake is the strongest to hit China since an M7.1 quake struck a remote mountainous area of Xinjiang in January 2024, which killed three people and injured dozens of others. In December 2023, more than a hundred people died when an earthquake hit Jishishan County in Gansu Province — China's deadliest disaster in nearly a decade.

Largest Drug Lab Ever Busted

National Police Chief General Suyudi Ario Seto led a site inspection and press conference on Friday (23/10/2026) announcing the bust of the largest clandestine methamphetamine laboratory ever dismantled by Indonesian authorities. The lab occupied two shop-house units in Beureueh Dua village (Gampong Ulee Tutue), Mutiara Timur district, Pidie regency, Aceh.

The raid was carried out quietly on Wednesday (21/10/2026) between 14:30 and 17:00 local time by a joint team from Indonesia's National Narcotics Board (BNN), the Directorate of Narcotics Crimes of the National Police's Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim), and the Directorate General of Customs and Excise. Officers seized a total of 1.2 tons of narcotics — 20 drums of liquid meth and about 500 kilograms of crystal meth — and arrested 11 suspects: nine Indonesian citizens and two Chinese nationals.

China–Golden Triangle Route

Early investigation points to an international narcotics network linking China, Malaysia, and Indonesia. A network originating from China was detected in February 2026 transporting hundreds of kilograms of liquid methamphetamine from northern Myanmar, through Laos and Thailand, arriving in Banda Aceh on 18 May 2026.

Two Chinese nationals with the initials LJ (45) and XM (42) are suspected of being the lead chemists — the lab's "cooks." They flew from Yunnan, China, transited through Malaysia, and entered Banda Aceh on 24 May 2026, spending 10 days surveying the area before returning to Malaysia on 2 June 2026.

The Police Chief is now coordinating with Chinese authorities to pursue the suspected mastermind of the network, identified by the initials LS. Field coordinators with the initials Z, ES, J, BR, and SS remain on the wanted list. Six mobile phones found at the scene are undergoing digital forensics, and investigators will apply money-laundering (TPPU) charges to cut off the network's financial flows.

Rp2.16 Trillion and 6 Million Lives Saved

At the Pidie press conference, the Police Chief laid out the economic scale of the seizure: at an average price of Rp1.8 million per gram, the 1.2 tons of meth represent nearly Rp2.16 trillion in circulation value. Assuming one gram is consumed by five people, the bust is estimated to have saved about 6 million people from narcotics exposure.

He added the state could also have avoided up to Rp120 trillion in potential rehabilitation costs, assuming Rp20 million per person for six months of rehabilitation. "The evidence we seized today is not merely a statistic of achievement — it is millions of young lives of our nation that we managed to save," Suyudi said.

Earlier the same day, the Police Chief led a separate press conference unveiling 1.16 tons of ketamine HCl worth Rp3.48 trillion seized at Belawan Port, North Sumatra — eight crew members of the vessel MT Global 168 (seven Indonesians and one Taiwanese national) were arrested in that operation.

Shooting Near Hebron

Two Palestinian gunmen opened fire on an Israeli military checkpoint at Yehuda Junction, also known as the Farsh al-Hawa checkpoint, near the city of Hebron in the West Bank on Friday morning (23/10/2026). Five Israelis were wounded in the incident, two of them in critical condition, according to Israel's Magen David Adom emergency service.

A firefight between the two attackers and Israeli troops lasted about 20 minutes before both were neutralized. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said the two armed men were shot dead, while searches continued across the area for anyone else who may have been involved. An AFP journalist who witnessed the scene reported that the two men, dressed in civilian clothes and carrying an automatic rifle and a pistol, exchanged fire with Israeli soldiers.

The IDF recovered a vehicle used by the attackers packed with a large quantity of ammunition. "This was a serious terror attack," IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir said after a situation assessment. He said the soldiers' rapid action prevented a far larger attack and that the ammunition in the car was intended for a much bigger assault.

Netanyahu Orders West Bank Closure

In response, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered the IDF and security forces to immediately cordon off the city of Hebron and prepare for a full closure of the entire West Bank starting Friday. The military described it as a "full siege" of Hebron, with roadblocks and searches in surrounding villages.

"I have instructed the IDF and security forces to immediately impose a closure on the city of Hebron and prepare for a full lockdown of all of Judea and Samaria, beginning today," Netanyahu said. He also called for the cancellation of all political events on Friday following the attack.

Netanyahu blamed Hamas for the attack, saying the group had planned a major assault targeting civilians. "We will pursue Hamas terrorists and those who sent them, wherever they are," he said. Hamas praised the attack in a statement but did not claim responsibility. As of this report, there was no evidence linking the Palestinian Authority to the shooting.

Four Days Before Israel's Election

The attack came just four days before Israel holds elections on October 27, 2026 — the first vote since the Hamas-led attack of October 7, 2023. The election is a crucial test for Netanyahu, who has campaigned as a security hardliner.

Netanyahu's main rival, former IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eisenkot, wished the wounded a full and speedy recovery. National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir responded to the attack by calling for the dismantling of the Palestinian Authority and the demilitarization of what he described as terror infrastructure.

The IDF said it would carry out further arrests of suspects and increase intelligence operations around Hebron in the coming days.