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Indonesia: Mt Lewotobi Laki-Laki Erupts, Spews 18 km Ash Cloud | VIDEO

July 7, 2025, 11:30 am

Indonesia’s Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki erupted on Monday, sending a massive ash plume soaring roughly 18 kilometres into the sky. According to officials, this marks the volcano’s third eruption in 2025. Thankfully, there have been no reports of casualties or damage so far.

The eruption was at 11:05 am local time on the island of Flores, where the twin-peaked volcano rises to 1,584 metres. In a statement, Indonesia’s volcanology agency confirmed, “An eruption of Lewotobi Laki-Laki Volcano took place. with the height of the observed ash column reaching around 18,000 m above the summit.”

Experts have also warned residents of the threat of deadly lahar floods, rapid flows of volcanic debris that may form if a heavy downpour occurs in the region.

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Previous Eruptions

This recent activity follows only weeks after the June eruption of the volcano, which had prompted the cancellation of many flights to and from Bali. It was this eruption that had officials elevate the volcano’s alert status to its highest level on June 18 and widen the exclusion area to a 7-kilometre (4.3-mile) radius.

In June, villages near the volcano had to be evacuated when ash covered the area. When this volcano erupted, the cloud of ash measured at least 10 kilometres high.

Previous to that, in November 2024, an eruption by the same volcano resulted in some nine fatalities and injured some others.

Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki is matched with a higher neighbouring volcano called Perempuan, which stands at 1,703 metres and has less volcanic activity. Located on the Pacific ‘Ring of Fire,’ Indonesia is subject to regular volcanic eruptions as a result of the geologically active environment.

Indonesia Ferry Disaster: 5 Dead, 31 Survivors Rescued, 29 Still Missing

July 3, 2025, 5:20 pm

Rescuers have rescued 31 passengers from the sea and retrieved five bodies after the KMP Tunu Pratama Jaya ferry capsized in stormy waters while travelling to Bali, Indonesia. The tragedy happened late on Wednesday when the boat departed from Ketapang port, bound for Gilimanuk. Teams now have a battle against time to locate 29 missing people.

Ferry Sinks Amid Severe Weather

The ferry left Ketapang, East Java, about 11 pm with 53 passengers, 12 crew, and 22 vehicles. It started leaking in the engine room about half an hour after departure. Then it listed and sank, surrounded by two meter high waves and powerful currents. Darkness and poor weather made it difficult to rescue overnight, but conditions had improved by Thursday morning.

Search parties operated with a helicopter, nine vessels—the tugboats and inflatables—and assistance from local fisherman and onshore volunteers. Some of the survivors clung to lifeboats of the ferry; others were floating unconscious. Officials ferried them to Banyuwangi and Gilimanuk hospitals.

Survivor Testimonies Describe Panic

One of the survivors, Supardi (64), accounted for the moments leading to the sinking of the ferry. He reported that he ascended to the deck when water engulfed the ship and used a life jacket to escape. Traumatized family members cried at the harbor after they were informed their loved ones were missing or saved.

As of Thursday afternoon, 31 survivors and five deaths were confirmed by rescuers. Search teams are still searching for 29 people who remain missing. Authorities stated that the manifest on the ferry reported 65 people aboard, but there could be more.

Investigation and Safety Concerns

Investigators then searched for what led to the rapid sinking of the ferry. Reports indicate an engine-room leak and engine malfunction prior to the tragedy. Ferry accidents have been a prevalent occurrence in Indonesia’s sea waters due to lax regulation, rough seas, and overloading. The route is one of the busiest inter-island ferries in the archipelago.

President Prabowo Subianto, who is in Saudi Arabia, has directed an “immediate emergency response” to assist the rescue operation. National agencies and regional authorities have deployed teams and naval ships to expand the search.

What Lies Ahead?

With conditions stabilizing, teams intend to widen search areas today. Rescue officials indicate they will search underwater portions of the ferry and still-surface areas over drift paths.

Experts warned the death toll might increase in Indonesia if more bodies become visible from the wreckage.

Indonesia Ferry With 65 Aboard Sinks Near Bali, 4 Dead and 23 Rescued

July 3, 2025, 7:59 am

A ferry that had 65 individuals on board sank on Wednesday evening off Indonesia’s tourist island of Bali, killing four and leaving another 38 missing. The ship sank just 30 minutes after it had left East Java’s Ketapang port, bound for Gilimanuk port in Bali—a trip of about 50 kilometers.

The National Search and Rescue Agency reports that the KMP Tunu Pratama Jaya had 53 passengers, 12 crew, and 22 cars, including 14 trucks. The vessel sank into the sea as weather turned stormy, with a rescue mission launched immediately.

Rescue Operations Underway Amid Stormy Seas

Banyuwangi police chief Rama Samtama Putra said in an interview with the Associated Press that “the rescuers have so far found four bodies and 23 people have been rescued till now.” He further explained that numerous survivors were rescued drifting unconscious after hours in rough seas.

Nine vessels, of which two were tugboats and two were inflatable rescue craft, were sent out since Wednesday evening to search for the missing passengers. Rescue teams have been fighting difficult weather conditions, such as waves up to 2 meters (6.5 feet) in height, that have made search missions challenging.

Recurring Ferry Disasters in Indonesia

Ferry disasters are not unknown in Indonesia, a country consisting of more than 17,000 islands where travel by sea is often the most practical method of getting around. The industry is however often criticized for poor standards of safety and overload.

Just last month, a tourist boat carrying 89 passengers capsized off Bali’s coast. While all the passengers survived that incident, not all ferry journeys end as fortunately. In May, another tragedy struck when a wooden vessel sank in Bengkulu province, killing seven domestic tourists and injuring 34 others.

Search Continues for the Missing

Through Thursday morning, search and rescue workers are still on the job, searching the waters off the disaster location in hopes of finding the 38 missing persons. With weather and time against them, the pressure keeps piling up.

No cause of the sinking has been officially confirmed by authorities, but the investigations will commence once the search is over.

Volcano Eruption in Indonesia Triggers Highest Alert, Prompts Evacuations

June 18, 2025, 1:18 am

One of most volatile volcanoes ejected an enormous ash cloud over 11 kilometres into the air in Indonesia on Tuesday following a declaration of the country’s highest warning.

Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki, which erupted at 17:35 local time (10:35 BST), was reported to have sent the enormous cloud soaring over the popular tourist island of Flores by the country’s volcanology agency.

The eruption is the latest in a series of volcanic activities from the mountain, underscoring the heightened risk in the region. With the volcano now under the highest alert status, authorities are on edge for further activity.

Exclusion Zone Declared Around the Crater in Indonesia

There was a 7km radius exclusion zone around the 1,584m (one mile) high twin-peaked volcano’s crater. There had not been any damage or casualty reports at once.

The volcano erupted repeatedly during November, killing nine individuals and displacing thousands. The ash cloud also prompted flight cancellations.

Given the recent violent history of the volcano, emergency protocols have been reactivated. Officials are closely monitoring seismic activity in the area.

Warnings Issued Over Lahar Floods and Air Quality

Geology agency chief Muhammad Wafid stated nobody should conduct any activities within 7km of the eruption, and warned of lahar floods – mud or debris flow of volcanic material – if heavy rain falls.

Residents were also advised to use face masks to shield themselves from volcanic ash.

The National Disaster Mitigation Agency, however, reported that at least one village was evacuated and ash rain in several others beyond the area of exclusion.

Evacuations Underway as Tremors Persist in Indonesia

The spokesman urged people living around the volcano “to evacuate to safe locations” since tremors continued to be felt, which was an indication of continued volcanic activity.

Lewotobi Laki-Laki’s most recent eruption was in May, when authorities similarly elevated the alert level to its highest.

Laki-Laki, which is Indonesian for “man,” is paired with the quieter but higher 1,703m called Perempuan, Indonesian for “woman.”

Indonesia Eyes China’s J-10 Fighter: Budget Deal or Beijing’s Strategic Trap?

June 6, 2025, 4:59 pm

Indonesia is seriously contemplating a purchase of China’s J-10 fighter aircraft. At face value, the plane provides an affordable answer to Jakarta’s defence requirements. However, most analysts worry that this acquisition may become a strategic blunder.

China’s J-10 is accompanied by technical constraints, dependability issues, and secret geopolitical strings. Indonesia might be purchasing planes—it might be purchasing dependence.

The Offer on the Table

On May 28, The National Interest reported that Indonesia’s Chief Marshal Mohamad Tonny Harjono expressed interest in the J-10C. He assured that the plane is under consideration but noted that significant procurements have to go through various stages of approval.

Indonesia’s Defence Equipment Determination Council will consider operational requirements and diplomatic implications before approving any agreement.

China’s J-10: Constructed on Borrowed Blueprints

China built the J-10 as a cheap alternative to Western planes. But the history of the plane’s creation is another story. Initially initiated during the 1990s, the J-10 borrowed extensive technology from Israel’s abortive Lavi project, canceled due to US pressure.

The plane is also structurally similar to the F-16 and has a Russian AL-31 engine intended for the larger Su-27. Its appearance may be stunning, but its guts are behind the times.

Performance Shortcomings and Patchwork Refurbishments

The J-10A began service in 2003 but quickly lagged behind in radar and avionics. China then rolled out the J-10B and J-10C, featuring phased array radar and improved missiles. But the core problems of the jet remain—particularly poor aerodynamics and engine reliability. Even China hasn’t completely converted to the newer models. The majority of its fleet continues to use the old J-10A.

Indonesia’s interest is partly due to unsubstantiated reports that a Pakistani J-10 shot down an Indian Rafale during Operation Sindoor. Chinese state media hailed the report, but India vehemently debunked losing any Rafales. These reports are unsubstantiated and appear to be state propaganda to enhance China’s defence exports.

Comparing the Rafale with the J-10

India’s Rafales are the opposite of the J-10. The Rafale is a 4.5-generation, twin-engine fighter with sophisticated AESA radar, electronic warfare capabilities, and greater combat reach. It’s a battle-tested platform with indigenous upgrade and maintenance capabilities. The J-10, in spite of newer technology in the C variant, does not have credibility in actual operations and relies on foreign-made engines.

Purchasing Chinese fighters might lock Indonesia into long-term dependence on Beijing. Any future modernization, spares, and training would all bind Jakarta to the good will of China. Such military dependence might limit Indonesia’s independence. Its integration with other Russian and American planes would also become more difficult, diminishing fleet effectiveness.

A Geopolitical Move, Not Just a Sale

China is leveraging sales of defence such as the J-10 to increase its grip in Southeast Asia. The proposal to Indonesia comes with joint exercises and enhanced military cooperation between the two countries. But getting too close to China comes at a risk. It may restrict Indonesia’s strategic maneuverability in the future.

Indonesia’s impetus—affordability and access—can overlook the profound cost of strategic vulnerability. The J-10 provides rapid value but long-term sacrifice. If Indonesia goes ahead, it might end up being caught in China’s trap, having to accept Beijing’s terms in future defence and policy matters.

Indonesia needs to consider whether the J-10 really bolsters its defense or merely increases Chinese influence. In this day and age of Indo-Pacific struggle for power, affordable aircraft might be a high-priced undervalued commodity. Strategic wisdom should prevail over temporary cost-effectiveness.

Khurshid Supports Article 370 Removal, Says Kashmir Has Progressed

May 31, 2025, 1:44 pm

Senior Congress leader Salman Khurshid praised the scrapping of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir. He said the move brought growth to the region. He made these remarks in Indonesia while representing India as part of an all-party outreach delegation.

Article 370 Was a Barrier, Says Khurshid

While addressing Indonesian academics and think tanks on Thursday, Khurshid called Article 370 a major issue. He said it created the false sense that Kashmir was not part of India. “Kashmir had a major problem for a long time. Much of that was reflected in the thinking of the government in an article called Article 370 of the Constitution, which somehow gave the impression that it was separate from the rest of the country. But Article 370 was abrogated, and it was finally put to an end,” he explained.

He Points to High Voter Turnout in Kashmir

Khurshid also mentioned the recent elections in the region. Over 60 percent of voters participated. “Subsequently, there was an election with 65 per cent participation in the election. There’s an elected government in Kashmir today, and therefore, for people to want to undo everything that has happened, the prosperity that has come to Kashmir,” he said.

He Challenges Pakistan’s Claims

Meanwhile, Khurshid dismissed Pakistan’s narrative about unrest in Kashmir. He explained that India took steps to counter false propaganda. Moreover, he emphasized that Kashmir had moved forward since 2019.

“Don’t Hyphenate India and Pakistan,” He Urges

During another event on Friday, Khurshid urged others not to group India with Pakistan. He said India stands on its own and has a bigger global role. “We are asked, why did we stop?… We are not Pakistan; we are much larger than they are. We have a greater role in the world… We got respect not only for our strengths but also for showing confidence in our strengths. We had to do certain things to teach Pakistan a lesson, and then we stopped because we are not greedy for Pakistan, their territory, or to destroy them,” he said.

India Responded to Pakistan’s Ceasefire Request

Khurshid further clarified India’s position. He said India did not initiate contact with Pakistan. Instead, Pakistan’s DGMO called for a ceasefire during ‘Operation Sindoor’. Since then, India has not carried out attacks.

India Seeks Peace, Not Comparison

Lastly, Khurshid stressed India’s peaceful intentions. He said India wants to lead the world without being compared to Pakistan. “We only want to preserve and protect ourselves… We want to lead the world. And in that leadership role, we cannot reduce ourselves to the size and stature of Pakistan… We don’t want a hyphen between India and Pakistan… Talk to us separately… The beauty of our plural culture, the beauty of how we live together and celebrate life together, is something that we want to show… We are patriots. We believe in humanity. We believe in our country because our country is our mother,” he added.

Indonesia Shaken by 5.7 Magnitude Quake, Over 100 Homes Damaged

May 23, 2025, 7:27 pm

A strong earthquake with a magnitude of 5.7 on the Richter scale struck Indonesia’s Sumatra island early Friday, destroying more than 100 houses but not reported to cause any injuries or deaths.

The United States Geological Survey (USGS) said the quake was felt at 2:52 a.m. local time (1952 GMT Thursday) and had its epicenter in the vicinity of Bengkulu province at a depth of 68 kilometers. The Indonesian meteorological agency detected a slightly higher magnitude of 6.0 and a deeper epicenter at 84 kilometers. Authorities stated that there was no threat of tsunami.

Structural Damage in Bengkulu

The earthquake caused extensive structural damage in the city of Bengkulu, said Abdul Muhari, a spokesperson for Indonesia’s national disaster agency (BNPB). “In the city of Bengkulu, 140 homes were damaged (by the earthquake), eight of which collapsed, or (they) cannot be repaired,” he told a Friday press briefing. Besides damage to homes, six public buildings were also affected. In the adjacent Central Bengkulu district, two houses experienced minor structural damage.

No Reported Fatalities

Luckily, there were no reported fatalities or severe injuries as of Friday morning. The authorities are still evaluating the extent of the damage as part of the emergency response.

Indonesia is situated in the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” a highly seismic area where several tectonic plates converge. The archipelago is thus especially vulnerable to earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. Historical events put the risks in perspective: a 6.2 quake in Sulawesi in 2021 killed over 100, and a devastating 7.5 earthquake and tsunami in Palu in 2018 killed over 2,200. The 2004 Aceh earthquake and tsunami, one of the deadliest to date, killed over 170,000 in Indonesia alone.

Snakes Are Filled With Water and Peeled Alive: WHAT FOR?

May 7, 2025, 4:33 pm

Every year, thousands in India die from snake bites, making the mere sight of a cobra enough to trigger panic. Most flee or attack the reptile out of instinctive fear. But in Kapetakan, a small village in Java, Indonesia, the fear dynamic is tragically reversed—here, it’s the snakes that suffer, not humans.

In this village, snakes are hunted, tortured, and killed—not for safety, but for style. The skins of these deadly creatures are turned into luxury handbags, belts, shoes, and wallets. These high-end products, sold for as much as ₹33 lakh in Europe and the U.S., originate from blood-soaked slaughterhouses that treat snakes as raw material, not living beings.

Recently, harrowing images from a facility owned by a man known as Boss Cobra, or Wakira, resurfaced online, reigniting global outrage. His factory first came under scrutiny in 2013. At his site, cobras and other venomous snakes are skinned alive. Their agony is swift yet brutal—skinned within seconds, some remain alive, dying slow, painful deaths due to trauma or dehydration.

According to reports, about 10 workers operate at Wakira’s factory, sharing a monthly income of around ₹13 lakh. The skins harvested are shipped across Java, where skilled artisans in Comal District transform them into glistening fashion pieces. Their final form may dazzle buyers, but few pause to ask where this shine truly comes from.

The slaughter method is gruesome: snakes are first knocked unconscious by a blow to the head. A pipe is forced down their throats and filled with water to inflate their bodies. A leather rope is then tied around the neck to prevent the water from escaping. After about 10 minutes, the snake is hung from a meat hook, and its skin is peeled off “like a glove.”

The peeled skins are either sun-dried or oven-dried before being sent to tanneries. But skin isn’t the only commodity. Snake meat is also in demand, consumed for taste and believed medicinal benefits. Many Indonesians believe snake meat cures skin conditions, asthma, and enhances male potency.

This industry, hidden behind glamor and gold, raises a chilling ethical dilemma. The profits may be high, but the price paid in suffering is even higher. While the West flaunts these products as symbols of luxury, their origins lie in cruelty few can stomach.

6.0-Magnitude Earthquake Hits Indonesia; No Causalities Reported

May 3, 2025, 8:42 pm

Earthquake of 6.0 struck Indonesia’s Sulawesi island on Saturday, a report from Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) that was uploaded to the X platform said. The agency described, “there was no potential for a tsunami.”

A slightly lower magnitude of 5.9 was reported by the European Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC), and it noted that the quake struck at a depth of 109 km (68 miles).

So far, there have not yet been any direct reports of casualties or property damage caused by the earthquake.

Why Everyone in This Indonesian Tribe Has Striking Blue Eyes?

May 2, 2025, 5:24 pm

You might have come across Bollywood songs that celebrate blue eyes as a mark of stunning beauty. But on Indonesia’s Buton Island, this rare eye color is common among all the locals though it’s not without complications.

The residents of Buton Island, located in the Sulawesi province of Indonesia, all belong to the Buton tribe and are known for their brilliant blue eyes. While their eye color is naturally mesmerizing, it’s not simply an aesthetic feature, it’s caused by a rare genetic disorder.

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A Rare Genetic Cause

The unique eye color is due to a condition called Waardenburg Syndrome, which affects approximately one in 42,000 people globally. This mutation, which occurs during fetal development, leads to striking eye pigmentation but can also result in other physical challenges.

More Than Just Looks

Waardenburg Syndrome doesn’t just affect eye color. It can lead to hearing impairments, patches of skin without pigment, and even a condition where one eye is blue and the other is brown. Though their eyes may look captivating, the disorder brings health complications that make this beauty more of a burden than a blessing.

Stitching Ties, Not Tariffs: Indonesia Chooses Diplomacy Over Trade War With US

April 6, 2025, 6:31 pm

Indonesia has announced it will not retaliate against the 32% trade tariff imposed by US President Donald Trump on the Southeast Asian nation, choosing instead to pursue diplomatic and strategic negotiations. The statement came from Chief Economic Minister Airlangga Hartarto on Sunday, marking Jakarta’s first official response to the sweeping trade levies announced last week.

Airlangga emphasized that Indonesia’s approach is rooted in protecting long-term bilateral trade relations and preserving its investment climate and overall economic stability. “The approach was taken by considering the long-term interest of bilateral trade relation, as well as to maintain the investment climate and national economic stability,” he said. He also noted that the government will support sectors likely to be impacted by the tariffs, particularly the apparel and footwear industries.

The new tariffs, which take effect on Wednesday, target six Southeast Asian countries, including Indonesia. In response, the Indonesian government is scheduled to consult with business leaders on Monday to develop a strategic plan. This includes exploring new trade opportunities with European countries to reduce dependency on the US and China.

Airlangga confirmed that a high-level Indonesian delegation will be sent to Washington for direct talks with US officials in an effort to resolve the trade dispute.

Indonesia recorded a $16.8 billion trade surplus with the US in 2024, making it the country’s third-largest export destination. Indonesian exports to the US totaled $26.3 billion last year, with major shipments including electronics, apparel, and footwear.

The government’s decision to prioritize diplomacy highlights Jakarta’s efforts to maintain stable international trade ties amid escalating global economic tensions.

Indonesia Approves Controversial Law Expanding Military’s Role in Government

March 20, 2025, 6:20 pm

The parliament of Indonesia passed a controversial amendment to the nation’s military law on Thursday, enabling serving military personnel to occupy additional civilian positions. The action has stirred alarm among human rights organizations and activists, who worry that it may contribute to the revival of the military’s role in the government, recalling the period of authoritarian rule by former President Suharto.

Concerns Over Return to Military Influence in Civilian Affairs

Under Suharto’s regime, which was overthrown in 1998, the military-controlled government. The newest revisions have raised concerns that Indonesia, the third-largest democracy in the world, is reverting towards military control. The critics complain that the changes reverse democratic gains and may result in human rights abuses and lack of accountability.

President of Indonesia, Prabowo Subianto, is a former general of the special forces and ex-son-in-law of Suharto. He has widened the scope of military roles in civilian life since taking office last October with a flagship initiative of offering free lunches to schoolchildren. The amendments further enlarged the scope of civilian jobs for the military to fill, drawing criticism over increasing military control of government.

Parliament Supports the Law as Necessary for National Security

The bill was still contentious, but it was approved by the parliament of Indonesia unanimously. Parliament Speaker Puan Maharani said that the bill is consistent with democratic ideals and human rights. Law Minister Supratman Andi Agtas rejected accusations that the law marked a reversal of military dominance. He explained that the amendment was necessary because of domestic and geopolitical threats that require a more dominant military role in civilian matters.

Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin, when justifying the amended law in parliament, said, “The geopolitical changes and global military technology require the military to transform… to face conventional and nonconventional conflicts.” He reassured the people, “We will never disappoint the Indonesians in keeping our sovereignty,” but did not explain the geopolitical threats that the law is intended to counter.

Increase of Civilian Functions and Retirement Age for Officers

Before the amendment, active military officers were only allowed to occupy posts in institutions like the Defense Ministry and the State Intelligence Service. The new law greatly broadens these provisions, enabling officers to assume positions in the attorney general’s office, the state secretariat, the counterterrorism agency, and the narcotics agency. The law also raises the retirement age for military officers, which could extend their stay in government affairs.

Rights groups have vehemently criticized these reforms, cautioning that the expanded role of the military in civilian government may lead to abuses. Activists are concerned that the law will enable officers to act with impunity, excluding civilians from oversight and accountability.

In reaction to the criticism, government officials have sought to assuage fears by saying that military officers have to resign before taking up some civilian positions, including in the Attorney General’s Office. Legislators have also made it clear that military personnel will not be permitted to join state-owned enterprises to avoid excessive military participation in business.

Despite these assurances, protests have broken out throughout Jakarta. Student organizations and democracy activists have held protests outside the parliament building, calling for the government to pull military officers out of civilian positions. Some protesters spent the night outside the parliament’s rear gate before the bill was passed. Police tried to disperse them, but they refused to move. Despite the small number of protesters during the vote, security forces deployed troops in addition to police to the parliamentary compound.

Future Implications of the New Military Legislation

The passage of this legislation is a fundamental transformation of Indonesia’s system of government, with deep implications for relations between civilians and the military. Although the government argues that the amendments are critical to national security, critics claim they risk destroying democratic institutions and increasing the prospect of military abuse. As demonstrations continue and widespread opposition is evident, the implementation and ramifications of this legislation will probably remain in close examination over the next few months.

Indonesian Rights Groups Urge Parliament to Reject Military Law

March 19, 2025, 4:16 pm

Indonesian student groups and rights organizations have called on parliament to reject draft amendments to military laws, saying that the changes would bring back military control over civilian matters and cause legal ambiguity. Parliament is due to approve the bill on Thursday in a plenary session following the house committee responsible for military affairs’ approval. The amendments would allow more military personnel to serve in civilian posts.

Rights groups, such as the Legal Aid Institute, have condemned the amendments, saying they would send Indonesia back to the times of late strongman Suharto, when the military was in the driving seat of power and dissent was smothered.

“The revision is a legislative crime that endangers Indonesians and the future of democracy,” said Arif Maulana, deputy chairman of the institute.

In the view of Amnesty International Indonesia’s Usman Hamid, expanding the role of the military in civilian life has the potential to result in abuses of authority, human rights abuse, and impunity. Arif Maulana also feared that active soldiers included in the Attorney General’s Office would risk legal opacity, particularly in cases against soldiers. He added that military presence in civilian positions has the potential to lead to the application of violence.

Meanwhile, the government has defended the bill, stating that revisions were made to address concerns. Officials argue that most military personnel appointed to civilian positions would first be required to resign.

Budi Djiwandono, the deputy chairman of the parliamentary committee in charge of the bill and nephew of President Prabowo Subianto, guaranteed that civil supremacy would prevail. He also explained that active military officers would not be assigned to state-owned enterprises, rejecting concerns about their entry into business.

But opposition members, such as Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle’s Nico Siahaan, have bashed the new agencies where active-duty personnel could be assigned. These are the state secretariat, the Attorney General’s Office, and the anti-terror and narcotics agencies.

As the vote draws near, rights organizations have organized protests outside parliament on Thursday, calling citizens to express their dissent. The opposition party has also demanded sustained monitoring of the implementation of the law to avoid further military control over civilian institutions.

BRICS Expansion Gains Momentum: Can It Challenge Western Economic Supremacy? | TDG Explainer

March 14, 2025, 2:03 am

Indonesia’s Entry into BRICS: New Power Realignment?

The BRICS grouping of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa formally inducted Indonesia as a full member, bringing its international growth to a whole new level. This entry signifies a wider bid to deepen the role of developing economies and diversify away from Western financial networks.

Indonesia, the fourth most populous nation in the world and Southeast Asia’s largest economy, adds strategic mass to BRICS. Admission is seen as a testament to the bloc’s ambitions to remake global trade, finance, and diplomacy by providing an alternative to Western-led institutions such as the G7 and the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

Why BRICS Expansion Matters

BRICS expansion seeks to counter Western economic hegemony by shifting global trade partnerships beyond US and European markets, decreasing reliance on the US dollar via alternative payment systems, and enhancing geopolitical clout in areas such as Southeast Asia and Africa.

Indonesia’s membership enhances BRICS’s Global South appeal, which could attract additional nations looking for alternatives to Western financial systems.

Geopolitical Implications

With China and Russia taking leading roles in BRICS, Indonesia’s addition has raised eyebrows regarding its geopolitical orientation. The Western nations see this addition as a strategic push that may redraw global power equations, particularly as BRICS solidifies relationships with other players such as Malaysia.

Moreover, Russia is proactively pushing for more influence in Southeast Asia, sitting down with Malaysia for security and defense talks, signaling a deeper regional realignment towards BRICS.

Challenges Ahead

Even with its expansion, BRICS is not without internal fissures and economic inequalities between members. Coordination of policies between very disparate economies continues to be a challenge, and the long-term effect of its expansion on Western institutions remains to be seen.

The Road Ahead

With Indonesia joining the fold, BRICS is that much closer to becoming a global economic force. The next few months will show how well it can compete with Western-dominated financial institutions and if other countries will join in to reshape the global order.

Indonesia Records First Deflation In 24 Years As Electricity Discounts Slash Prices

March 3, 2025, 10:39 pm

Indonesia’s consumer price index (CPI) posted a rare decrease in February, the first year-on-year deflation since March 2000, based on official statistics reported on Monday. The decline was due to sharp government subsidies in electricity bills as a measure to spur economic growth.

CPI declined by 0.09% from last year, below market forecasts for 0.60% inflation. This is the second monthly decline in consecutive months that recorded inflation below the central bank target of 1.5% to 3.5% after January experienced a 0.76% inflation rate.

One of the biggest causes of the deflation was a 50% reduction in electricity rates for some consumers in January and February. Also, better food production after the drought last year resulted in decreasing prices of staple foods like rice, tomatoes, and red chilies.

“This deflation was not caused by sluggish demand but by the lower electricity tariffs,” Statistics Indonesia head Amalia Adininggar Widyasanti explained at a press conference.

In spite of the overall deflation, core inflation, excluding volatile food prices and government-controlled expenses, climbed to 2.48% year-on-year, marginally higher than economists’ projection of 2.42% and January’s 2.36%.

Economists see inflation picking up in March when the electricity tariff discounts lapse. But other government actions, such as discounts on air travel and toll roads during Ramadan, are seen to keep inflation rates in check.

Hosianna Situmorang, Bank Danamon’s economist, estimated that with these budget stimuli, Indonesia’s economic growth would be between 5.1% and 5.2% in 2024, meeting the government target of 5.2%. The economy grew 5.03% last year.

Married, No Bathroom For 3 Days: This Tribe’s Wedding Custom Redefines Marriage Challenges!

February 18, 2025, 1:55 pm

Marriage customs vary widely across the globe, with some being truly unique and surprising. Among the most unusual traditions is one followed by the Tidong tribe, an indigenous community in the Borneo region of Indonesia and Malaysia. According to their customs, newlyweds are forbidden from using the toilet for three days after their wedding, a practice believed to safeguard their marital purity and ensure a lasting bond.

A Test of Purity and Commitment

For the Tidong people, marriage is more than just a union between two individuals; it is a sacred bond that must remain pure. They believe that if a bride and groom use the toilet within the first three days of their marriage, it could bring misfortune, impurity, or even the risk of separation and death. To prevent this, the couple is kept under strict supervision by family members, and in some cases, they are confined to a room to ensure compliance.

Spiritual and Superstitious Beliefs

The tribe also holds a belief that toilets contain negative energies that could harm the couple’s relationship. They fear that exposure to such negative forces during the early days of marriage might lead to disputes, discord, or a troubled union. As a preventive measure, the couple is given minimal food and water to reduce the need for restroom use.

Health Risks and Cultural Significance

While the Tidong people deeply respect this custom, health experts warn that refraining from bodily functions for such an extended period can have severe health consequences, including infections and digestive issues. Despite these risks, the community continues to uphold this tradition, considering it a crucial ritual for a successful marriage.

Celebration After the Challenge

Once the three-day period ends, the newlyweds celebrate their endurance and commitment, believing that their adherence to the tradition will bring them a long and happy married life. Though this practice may seem extreme to outsiders, for the Tidong people, it is an essential part of their rich cultural heritage.

While customs like these may appear unusual, they highlight the diverse ways in which different cultures perceive marriage and commitment. The Tidong tribe’s belief in purity and spiritual protection showcases the deep-rooted traditions that continue to shape societies today.

Apple Considers Starting iPhone Production in Indonesia to Overcome Sales Ban

February 13, 2025, 1:13 pm

According to reports, Apple is considering establishing local iPhone manufacturing in Indonesia to lift the ban on the new iPhone 16 series in that nation. This comes after the iPhone 16 was banned from sale for four months, forcing the tech titan to look at domestic production options.

Apple Insider reports that they are negotiating with suppliers on how to set up local production in Indonesia.

Indonesia had earlier granted permission to circumvent stringent import rules if the firm promised to invest in domestic production. But after it defaulted on its initial investment promise, Apple was in for a tough time. Even after making several promises to raise investment, ranging from $10 million to $100 million to a last offer of $1 billion, the government held its ground.

Major Victory for Indonesia’s Tech Production Goals

If Apple goes ahead with local iPhone manufacturing, it would be a huge victory for Indonesia. Already, Huawei has pledged to produce cell phones in the region. The government of Indonesia has been pushing for increased funding for indigenous technology production. Perhaps this action by Apple would be consistent with Indonesia’s overarching strategy to boost domestic smartphone production and promote technological advancement here.

However, it is not certain that Apple might have been able to avert the ban by just honoring its initial investment commitment of $110 million. The company was only able to invest $95 million when the deadline arrived, which quite possibly led to the imposition of the sales ban. The strict ‘local content quota’ legislation in Indonesia, which requires 35–40% of a smartphone’s content to be local, made it difficult for Apple to achieve the requirements in addition to the investment failure.

Apple Is Hesitant to Fulfill Indonesia’s Strict Requirements

With no iPhone manufacturing vendors in Indonesia, they also faced difficulties meeting the local content criterion. Although CEO Tim Cook had pledged in April 2024 to consider local production, Indonesia’s patience expired in October, leading to the prohibition of iPhone 16 models. Apple has tried to negotiate since the ban began with a $10 million proposal that was refused by the government.

Apple’s follow-up $100 million offer was also not what Indonesia was hoping for. Later, Apple finally made a $1 billion investment plan, which was accepted by the Indonesian government but still fell short in some respects. As a part of this agreement, Apple started shifting some of its manufacturing to Batam Island, albeit only AirTags and not iPhones. Indonesian authorities clarified that unless the Batam plant was utilized for iPhone manufacturing, the ban would continue.

What’s Next for Indonesia?

Late in January 2025, Indonesian Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani suggested that an end to the iPhone ban was near, with a possible breakthrough within weeks. Three weeks later, however, there has been no word officially from either Apple or the Indonesian government.

Establishing local iPhone production will take a lot of time and money. Apple will have to fulfill the local content requirement by establishing new supply chains and manufacturing facilities. In return for agreeing to local production, Apple will probably demand the immediate removal of the iPhone 16 ban. Before the ban, Apple was estimated to sell 2.9 million iPhones in Indonesia during 2024, commanding merely around 2% of the market share. Apple will be keen to regain its place, but whether Indonesia would accept these conditions is doubtful.

Ex-Indonesia President Attended India’s 1st Republic Day Parade in 1950

January 26, 2025, 11:28 am

Indonesia has a special place in the history of India’s Republic Day. Sukarno, the first President of Indonesia, was the chief guest on India’s first Republic Day in 1950. This year in 2025, Prabowo Subianto, President of Indonesia is the chief guest, marking the continued friendship between the two nations. An Indonesian National Armed Forces marching contingent and military band will also join the parade, giving it an international flavor.

The parade began at 2:30 PM in 1950, with President Dr. Rajendra Prasad riding in a coach renovated for the occasion and drawn by six Australian horses. Enthusiastic crowds cheered as the procession of the president made its way to the Irwin Amphitheatre on Republic Day. The event ended with a grand show that featured 3,000 personnel from the Armed Forces and police with seven massed bands. Spectators clad in their finest attire packed the 15,000-seat capacity of the amphitheater, while the surrounding venue vibrantly decorated the space.

Role of Indonesia in Republic Day Legacy

This year, the parade focuses on celebrating the progress and integration of India. The tri-services tableau shows the spirit of “Jointness” in the Armed Forces and is a recreation of synchronized battlefield scenarios. India showcased its military prowess with indigenous defense technologies, including the Arjun battle tank, Tejas fighter aircraft, and advanced light helicopters.

The spectacle of Jayati Jaya Mama Bharatam is set to showcase 5,000 artists performing 45 dance forms within an 11-minute extravaganza. Furthermore, Kartavya Path is extended, ensuring that all the guests will have the opportunity to witness the great cultural heritage of India through this captivating performance.

Trace the First Republic Day Celebrations

India celebrated its first Republic Day on January 26, 1950, not at Kartavya Path but at the Irwin Amphitheatre, now the National Stadium. The amphitheater, constructed in 1933 with a donation from the Maharaja of Bhavnagar, was an apt venue for this momentous occasion. This structure, dating back to the 1930s, was designed by Robert Torr Russell, the architect who designed Connaught Place, and it witnessed the swearing-in ceremony of India’s first President, Dr. Rajendra Prasad.

At exactly 10:18 AM, India formally became the Sovereign Democratic Republic in a solemn ceremony at Durbar Hall, Government House. Six minutes later, Dr. Prasad took oath as the President. Immediately after 10:30 AM, a 31-gun salute declared the arrival of the Republic and its first leader. In his historic speech, first in Hindi and then in English, Dr. Prasad spoke of the importance of bringing India under one Constitution and one Union, which was responsible for the welfare of over 320 million citizens.

The Historic National Stadium

The old Irwin Amphitheatre is now the National Stadium, which is a prominent landmark. The National School Band Competition took place on the front lawns of the stadium on January 24-25, 2025, before Republic Day. A plaque on its wall commemorates the laying of the foundation stone by Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru just a week before the first Republic Day.

National Stadium stands as a witness to the day in which the slogans of “Jai” arose to reverberate through its walls, establishing the foundation of the Republic of India. This site, in history, persists in inspiring the present with its legacy of unity, democracy, and cultural pride.

Lighting Up the Capital

Iconic buildings, parks, and railway stations in Delhi shimmered with light on January 26, 1950, turning the city into a “fairyland.” The Fauji Akhbar (now Sainik Samachar) chronicled the day’s events, witnessing a new life and status to the nation as a Republic.

India celebrates its 76th Republic Day by recalling the first Republic Day at the Irwin Amphitheatre and finally the grand parades on Kartavya Path. The day testifies to the unity, diversity, and progress of India and unites the nation in pride and patriotism.

India’s Influence on Indonesian President Prabowo’s Free School Meal Plan

January 6, 2025, 4:31 pm

“There’s no such thing as a free lunch” goes the adage but Indonesia has disproven that. President Prabowo Subianto’s government kicked off the Free Nutritious Meal initiative on Friday (January 6), in a lunch distributed across more than 5,70,000 people, the first day of it as per Reuters. The project catering to an estimated 82.9 million pupils in schools across the country is a fulfillment of an election promise.

What is the Free Nutritious Meal Programme?

Among his election promises, President Prabowo launched the Free Nutritious Meal program a few weeks after his government came into office on October 20, 2024. The ambitious program is funded by a 71 trillion rupiah (US$4.4 billion) allocation in Indonesia’s 2025 budget of 3,621.3 trillion rupiah (US$237 billion). Meals will be provided five days a week to schoolchildren, with an initial allocation of 15,000 rupiah (US$0.93) per child.

Despite assurances from Vice President-elect Gibran Rakabuming Raka that the amount will not be reduced, some still speculate that a budget constraint will be a problem. Experts mention that the allocation could even be trimmed to 7,500 rupiah per meal, so the budget cap is not exceeded.

How India Inspired Indonesia’s Meal Scheme?

In April 2024, Indonesia’s delegation, comprising Deputy Coordinating Minister Mochammad Firman Hidayat, was due to visit India to study the phenomenal midday meal programme of India. The scheme, they claim, which is said to be eradicating malnutrition and increasing school attendance, is a replica of what Indonesia is doing.

Operations in one of Akshaya Patra’s largest kitchens, based in Bangalore, where the foundation produces meals in unprecedented volumes. Also learned the interplay of central and state governments of India in running this program with their emphasis on the need for synergy between different tiers of governments.

Challenges and Innovations in Implementation

Fish Milk: The Novel Innovation

Fish milk may be included in the program as this is a protein-rich dairy alternative produced from the local fish resources. Bearing Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, the fish milk had been presented as one of the environment-friendly and low cost options but nutritionists raise the concerns on its strong taste, allergens, and untested long-term health benefits.

Financial Burden

One challenge will be how to fund such an initiative: if fully rolled out, its annual cost may reach 450 trillion rupiah, surpassing the currently allocated 71 trillion rupiah. Analysts warn that it could push Indonesia’s budget deficit close to its legal limit of 3% of GDP.

The importation of dairy products has further complicated cost management. Domestic milk production only covers 22.7% of the needs of Indonesia, with the output decreasing from 951,003 tonnes in 2018 to 837,223 tonnes in 2023.

Technological Integration and Public Support

To streamline logistics and enhance accountability, the government plans to adapt lessons from India’s Digital Public Infrastructure, including the JAM (Jan Dhan Aadhar Mobile) initiative. To raise awareness, 10 million rupiah has been allocated to pay influencers to promote the programme.

Communications Minister Budi Arie Setiadi explained that these efforts aim to highlight the programme’s importance, especially as 20% of Indonesian children under five were stunted in 2022.

Will the Initiative Succeed?

Success for Indonesia’s Free Nutritious Meal program depends on whether the government can serve nutritious food at budget. “The problem is not only the cost per serving; it is about nutritious food,” said Budiman Sudjatmiko, a senior campaign member.

Utilizing local resources, such as community kitchens and village enterprises, would help stabilize cost while still achieving nutritional standards, the government said. Challenging, perhaps, but the program holds the promise to make a real difference for millions of children across Indonesia.

Rohingya Crisis Deepens: Over 200 Refugees Arrive In Indonesia Seeking Safety From Stateless Struggles

January 6, 2025, 9:03 am

More than 200 Rohingya refugees landed in Indonesia‘s Aceh province over the weekend, in a continued wave of migration marking another chapter in the plight of the world’s largest stateless population. The head of Aceh‘s fishing community, Miftach Tjut Adek, confirmed their arrival in the West Peureulak region of East Aceh on Sumatra island on Sunday evening.

UNHCR Steps In

Faisal Rahman, the UNHCR officer, said the agency was in close contact with the local authorities. A UNHCR team was despatched to West Peureulak on Monday to assess the situation and provide necessary support.

Dangerous journeys in calm seas

The Rohingya, mainly Muslims who originally hail from Myanmar, typically escape dire circumstances in overcrowded camps on rickety boats and take shelter in Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia. Such dangerous travel season peaks between October and April when seas tend to be calmer.

Escalating Arrivals

Indonesia has seen a sharp increase in Rohingya arrivals. According to data from UNHCR, more than 2,000 refugees arrived on the land in 2023 alone, more than four times the total number of arrivals in the past four years. More than 500 refugees landed in the country between October and November last year.

Stateless and Persecuted

From where they have been stripped of citizenship and are regarded as foreigners in their homeland of Myanmar, the Rohingya are being systematically persecuted. Many of them have had to flee into Bangladesh, where nearly 1 million Rohingya currently reside in what the United Nations described as the world’s largest humanitarian refugee camp.

The latest arrival in Aceh underscores the urgent need for humanitarian attention and international intervention in an ongoing crisis.

Indonesia Court’s Landmark Ruling Removes Presidential Vote Threshold, Shakes Up 2029 Race

January 2, 2025, 6:49 pm

Indonesia’s Constitutional Court ruled on Thursday that a law requiring political parties to win a minimum of votes to nominate presidential candidates is not legally binding, thereby potentially opening the 2029 presidential election to a wider range of nominees.

Under the current law, parties must secure 20% of the vote, either independently or in a coalition, during legislative elections to propose a presidential candidate. This threshold had been contested by university students who argued it restricted voter choice and marginalized smaller parties.

Chief Justice Suhartoyo stated that the threshold “had no binding legal power,” but the ruling did not clearly state whether the requirement should be abolished or changed. Judge Saldi Isra stressed that political parties “should all have the right to nominate candidates.”.

Final and binding” was the description given by parliamentary commission head Rifqi Nizamy Karsayuda on the ruling while indicating lawmakers would take necessary actions to comply. Legal experts noted, however that the court’s decision leaves room for legislative revisions which could potentially curtail its impact.

Political analyst Arya Fernandes of the Centre for Strategic and International Studies welcomed the ruling, saying that it would further empower smaller parties and reduce their dependence on powerful political groups.

Indonesia holds presidential elections every five years. The last election in 2024 saw incumbent President Prabowo Subianto win the election in a landslide victory. He took office in October.

The court’s decision comes after an almost similar decision in August 2024, reducing the threshold for regional elections, including governor and mayoral races, from 20% to less than 10%. This earlier decision had sparked protests, whereby allies of President Prabowo and his predecessor, Joko Widodo, wanted to challenge it, arguing that the government was suppressing opposition voices.

In another verdict on Thursday, the court constrained the application of artificial intelligence from excessively altering photos of candidates competing in the polls, citing fears that it will mislead electorates away from informed voting.

Rohingya Refugees Rescued From Sinking Boat As Indonesia Faces Surge In Sea Arrivals

November 30, 2024, 7:21 pm

More than 110 Rohingya refugees, mostly women and children, arrived safely in Indonesia’s Aceh province on Saturday after their boat encountered difficulties and almost sank, officials reported. The refugees were rescued by local fishermen in East Aceh’s Birem Bayeun district.

The Rohingya, originally from Myanmar and recognized as the world’s largest stateless group, often attempt perilous journeys to escape dire conditions in refugee camps. They typically travel by boat from Southeast Asia, particularly between October and April, when the seas are calmer.

This group’s arrival comes just a month after around 400 Rohingya refugees landed in Aceh and North Sumatra. Their boat had reportedly sustained damage during the journey.

The Rohingya are a persecuted ethnic group, facing severe abuse in Myanmar where they are denied citizenship and regarded as foreign intruders. Over 1 million Rohingya refugees currently live in overcrowded camps in Bangladesh, marking it as the largest refugee camp globally.

Despite the ongoing humanitarian crisis, Indonesia, which is not a signatory to the U.N. Refugee Convention, has expressed its inability to accommodate more refugees. Tensions are rising as local resentment grows over the influx of Rohingya refugees. Last year, over 2,000 Rohingya arrived in Indonesia, surpassing the total number of arrivals in the previous four years combined.

Torrential Rains In Indonesia Trigger Deadly Landslides And Floods, 7 Still Missing

November 26, 2024, 11:18 am

Rescue teams in Indonesia are continuing efforts to locate seven people still missing after torrential rains triggered flash floods and landslides in North Sumatra province, killing 15 individuals, officials said on Tuesday.

The disaster, which began on Saturday, claimed 11 lives in landslides across Karo, Padang Lawas, and Tapanuli Selatan districts. Another four fatalities occurred due to flash flooding in Deli Serdang district, according to Abdul Muhari, a spokesperson for the disaster management agency.

More than 100 rescue workers, along with police and military personnel, are involved in the search operation. However, persistent rainfall has posed significant challenges to their efforts. “The rain continues from afternoon until evening, hampering our ability to locate the missing individuals,” Abdul stated. He added that the search would continue through Saturday despite the difficulties.

The disaster left extensive damage in its wake, destroying houses, mosques, and rice fields. Road access to several villages has been cut off, with excavators deployed to clear debris and aid in the search for victims.

Authorities have issued warnings for residents in North Sumatra to prepare for additional flooding, as more heavy rainfall is forecast in the coming weeks.

Indonesia, an archipelago prone to natural disasters, frequently experiences landslides during its rainy season. Deforestation and illegal mining activities in remote areas further exacerbate the risks, heightening the vulnerability of affected communities.

The disaster agency urged vigilance as rescue teams continue their work under challenging conditions.

Tragedy Strikes Indonesia: Flash Floods And Landslides Claim 16 Lives, Dozens Missing

November 25, 2024, 4:55 pm

Rescue teams in Indonesia have recovered 16 bodies and are continuing their search for missing individuals after flash floods and landslides struck villages in North Sumatra over the weekend. Torrential rain caused rivers to overflow, triggering massive mudslides that swept through four mountainous districts in the province. Authorities confirmed that six people are still missing.

The deadly floods and landslides, which took place in several areas including the Semangat Gunung resort in Karo district, washed away homes and destroyed farmlands. Local police, soldiers, and rescue workers, aided by excavators and farm equipment, have been working tirelessly to search for victims amid the rubble.

The worst-hit area was a resort town in Karo district, where six bodies were recovered after a landslide buried two houses and a cottage late Sunday. In South Tapanuli district, flash floods swept away at least 10 homes and left about 150 buildings damaged. Two bodies were pulled from the river, and several people were reported injured.

The flash floods also took lives in Deli Serdang and Padang Lawas districts. In Harang Julu village, a landslide killed four members of a family, including two children. Rescuers managed to extract survivors from the village, where families gathered in grief as the mud-covered bodies of victims were recovered.

This disaster highlights the annual risk of flooding and landslides that Indonesia faces between October and March, especially in mountainous regions. Last year, similar weather events caused the deaths of 12 people, and several remain missing. The affected regions, including Lake Toba, a popular tourist destination, are prone to natural disasters due to their geography and the dense population living in vulnerable areas.

Trumps Call With President Of Indonesia Goes Viral: The Call Was About…. | VIDEO

November 12, 2024, 4:56 pm

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto extended his congratulations to Donald Trump on his election victory via a phone call shortly after arriving in Washington on an official visit. Prabowo, who has committed to a non-aligned foreign policy, posted a video of the conversation to his social media, drawing significant attention.

The call took place after Prabowo’s visit to China, where he had a high-profile meeting with President Xi Jinping. In the video, Prabowo enthusiastically offers to meet Donald Trump in person, saying, “Wherever you are, I’m willing to fly to congratulate you personally, sir.” Trump responded, “We’ll do that, anytime you want.” Prabowo’s office confirmed that the call was made on Monday, though it remains unclear if the two leaders are set to meet in person.

WATCH THE VIRAL VIDEO:

Glad to be connected directly with President Elect @realDonaldTrump to extend my heartfelt congratulations on his election as the 47th President of the United States.

I am looking forward to enhance the collaboration between our two great nations and to more productive… pic.twitter.com/KfSVUsZSGc

— Prabowo Subianto (@prabowo) November 11, 2024

Shock Over Assassination Attempt and American Praise

During the call, Prabowo expressed shock over a reported assassination attempt on Trump during his campaign and shared his relief that Trump was unharmed. Trump acknowledged his fortunate survival, saying, “I just happened to be in the right place with the right direction, otherwise I wouldn’t be talking to you right now.”

The former special forces commander, Prabowo, who spoke fluent English, was praised by Trump for his command of the language. Prabowo responded with humor, crediting his American training.

Meetings with U.S. Companies and Biden Await

While in Washington, Prabowo is also meeting with U.S. President Joe Biden, along with representatives from American companies including Freeport McMoRan and Chevron. His office reported that he encouraged these companies to explore investment opportunities in Indonesia as part of his broader economic agenda.

Russia And Indonesia Stage First Joint Naval Drills In Java Sea, Boost Defense Ties

November 11, 2024, 4:52 pm

Russian and Indonesian naval forces recently held their first joint exercises in the Java Sea, simulating the liberation of a vessel captured by terrorists and countering attacks from unmanned boats, as reported by Russia’s RIA news agency on Monday. The exercises, which began last week, followed Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto’s commitment to strengthening defense ties with Russia, aligning with Jakarta’s traditional non-aligned foreign policy.

According to the Russian Pacific Fleet’s press office, crews practiced coordinated maneuvers, communication protocols, and inspections of suspicious vessels. They also conducted live training against unmanned boats, using both automatic artillery and small arms, with deck helicopters deployed for joint tasks.

Representing Russia were the corvettes “Gromkiy”, “Rezkiy”, “Hero of the Russian Federation Aldar Tsydenzhapov”, and the medium sea tanker “Pechenga”. Indonesia was represented by the frigate “I Gusti Ngurah Rai” and the corvette “Frans Kaisiepo”, RIA reported.

Indonesia: Mount Lewotobi Eruption Sends Ash 9 Km Into Sky, Evacuations Underway

November 10, 2024, 6:45 am

Indonesia’s Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki erupted at least three times early Saturday (Nov 9), sending an ash column nine kilometers (5.6 miles) into the sky, as officials planned to expand the restricted zone around the volcano. A major eruption by the volcano in East Nusa Tenggara province on Sunday claimed nine lives, prompting authorities to rush to evacuate 16,000 people from villages near the crater due to ongoing eruptions.

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“The eruption accompanied by the ejection of hot lava and hot clouds to the west and northwest of Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki is still occurring,” stated Muhammad Wafid, head of the volcanology agency. The agency intends to widen the restricted area from eight to nine kilometers southwest to northwest of the crater, Wafid added.

Evacuation efforts remain underway, with around 10,700 people evacuated as of Friday evening, according to data from Indonesia’s disaster agency. On Friday, the volcano erupted multiple times, producing an ash column reaching up to 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) high.

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iPhone 16 Now “Illegal” in THIS Country—What’s Behind This Surprising Ban?

October 25, 2024, 1:20 pm

Indonesia has banned the sale and use of Apple’s iPhone 16. On Tuesday, Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita announced that any iPhone 16 operating in the country is illegal. He advised consumers not to buy the device abroad.

iPhone 16 Deemed “Illegal”

Kartasasmita said, “If there is an iPhone 16 that can operate in Indonesia, that means that I can say, the device is illegal. Do report it to us.” He emphasized that no International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) certification exists for this device.

Reasons Behind the Ban

The ban results from Apple’s failure to meet its investment commitments in Indonesia. The company has invested 1.48 trillion rupiah (about $95 million) of its promised 1.71 trillion rupiah, leaving a shortfall of 230 billion rupiah (around $14.75 million). Kartasasmita explained, “We, the Ministry of Industry, are yet to be able to issue permits for the iPhone 16 because there are still commitments that Apple must realize.”

Earlier this month, the minister stated, “Apple’s iPhone 16 cannot be sold in Indonesia yet because the extension of the TKDN certification is still pending, awaiting further investment realization from Apple.”

TKDN Certification Requirement

The TKDN (Domestic Component Level) certification requires companies to have at least 40% local content value to sell their products in Indonesia. This certification connects to Apple’s promise to establish research and development facilities, called Apple Academies, in the country.

This announcement follows Apple CEO Tim Cook’s visit to Jakarta in April. During that visit, he discussed potential manufacturing plans with President Joko Widodo. Cook indicated that the company would “look at” setting up manufacturing sites in Indonesia.

Impact on Apple Products

As a result of the ban, the iPhone 16, which launched globally on September 20, is unavailable in Indonesia. Other new Apple products, like the iPhone 16 Pro series and the Apple Watch Series 10, are also affected. Industry Ministry spokesperson Febri Hendri Antoni Arif confirmed that the TKDN certification application for the iPhone 16 is under review. However, approval depends on Apple meeting its investment commitments.

Italian Surf Coach Giulia Manfrini Died In Freak Swordfish Accident In Indonesia

October 22, 2024, 12:51 pm

In a tragic incident, 36-year-old Italian surfer Giulia Manfrini was fatally injured after being impaled by a swordfish while surfing in Indonesia. According to reports from ABC Australia, the accident occurred at a popular surf break off the West Coast of Sumatra, near Masokut Island, as Manfrini rode the waves at Ombak Bengbeng. Witnesses stated that the swordfish unexpectedly jumped and pierced her chest, resulting in a severe 5cm stab wound.

Manfrini was a well-respected surf coach and the founder of the surf travel agency AWAVE. Lahmudin Siregar, the acting head of the Mentawai Islands’ Disaster Management Agency, confirmed the details of the accident. Despite immediate first aid provided by two friends who were surfing nearby, she could not be saved and later showed signs of drowning, according to medical reports.

James Colston, Co-Founder of AWAVE Travel, expressed his grief, stating that Manfrini had made a significant impact on the surfing community both in Europe and around the world. “Her kindness, care, and positivity were remembered by all that met her, and she will be dearly missed,” he shared.

Frankie Smithurst from Naga Laut Mentawai Blue described Manfrini as someone with “overflowing excitement for life,” noting that her vibrant spirit and huge heart would be remembered by all.

The mayor of Venaria Reale, Manfrini’s hometown, Fabio Giulivi, expressed the community’s sorrow over her untimely death in a heartfelt Facebook post. He reflected on her passion for surfing and her dedication to her travel agency, stating, “The news of her death has left us all in shock and makes us feel powerless in the face of such a devastating tragedy.”

Manfrini’s Instagram page has been inundated with emotional tributes from friends and community members. One user poignantly remarked, “The sea, that gave you so much, has taken your life. Rest in peace.” Her former volleyball coach shared memories of their last evening together, expressing deep sorrow and calling her “like my new Italian daughter,” emphasizing the lasting impact she had on those around her.