Indonesia is all set to hold the 17th G20 summit in Bali this year and reports suggest that the Russian President Vladimir Putin and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping will be in attendance.

November: G20 Summit set to take place in Bali, Indonesia invites Ukraine to attend the meet

Two small towns on Indonesia's Sulawesi island are celebrating a days-long ceremony called the Manene where they honour the spirits of the dead. Hundreds of corpses are pulled out and dressed in the village of Torea as part of the ritual. 
 
"When we do Manene, we would start by opening the grave chamber and cleaning it and its surrounding area," one of the family members, Sulle Tosae, told AFP. "Then, we would dry the bodies under the sun before [we] change their clothes," he said.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/ukraine-conflict-creates-noodle-crisis-in-indonesia-464590">Ukraine conflict creates 'noodle crisis' in Indonesia</a>

Coffins holding the preserved bodies of their loved ones are pulled from a burial cave carved into the mountainside.

"The offerings are a symbol of gratitude from the children and grandchildren to the departed ones," Torea village head Rahman Badus told AFP.

The ceremony is held so that the spirits "can always bless the living with safety, peace and happiness," he said.

One family offered their freshly exhumed relative a cigarette, while another affixed a pair of stylish sunglasses. A few of the bodies remain relatively intact from the mummification process while others have deteriorated to skeleton remains.

Torajans are an ethnic group and about a million of them reside on the Sulawesi island. They all seem fine about talking with an embalmed corpse, dressing them up, brushing their hair or even taking pictures with a mummified relative.

The Manene is usually held every few years in July or August.

The Torajans believe spirits of the dead will linger in the world before their funeral ceremonies and will begin their journey to the land of spirits after their souls are immortalised.

The families preserve the body until they are able to save enough money for an elaborate funeral.&nbsp;

An embalming process using natural remedies such as sour vinegar and tea leaves was earlier used to preserve the bodies. But now, most families simply inject a formaldehyde solution into the corpse.

While the sight is sure to scare onlooking Western tourists, residents are more than happy to clean out the bodies, take pictures and pray for their souls.

But the village chief says some locals have gone too far.

"The bodies must be treated with the utmost respect in the Manene ritual," Badus said. "Relatives are paying respect to their parents or ancestors and disrespect has consequences."

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Two small towns on Indonesia's Sulawesi island are celebrating a days-long ceremony called the Manene where they honour the spirits of the dead. Hundreds of corpses are pulled out and dressed in the village of Torea as part of the ritual.

Two small towns on Indonesia's Sulawesi island are celebrating a days-long ceremony called the Manene where they honour the spirits of the dead. Hundreds of corpses are pulled out and dressed in the village of Torea as part of the ritual. "When we do Manene, we would start by opening the grave chamber and cleaning it and its surrounding area," one of the family members, Sulle Tosae, told AFP. "Then, we would dry the bodies under the sun before [we] change their clothes," he said. Also Read | Ukraine conflict creates 'noodle crisis' in Indonesia Coffins holding the preserved bodies of their loved ones are pulled from a burial cave carved into the mountainside. "The offerings are a symbol of gratitude from the children and grandchildren to the departed ones," Torea village head Rahman Badus told AFP. The ceremony is held so that the spirits "can always bless the living with safety, peace and happiness," he said. One family offered their freshly exhumed relative a cigarette, while another affixed a pair of stylish sunglasses. A few of the bodies remain relatively intact from the mummification process while others have deteriorated to skeleton remains. Torajans are an ethnic group and about a million of them reside on the Sulawesi island. They all seem fine about talking with an embalmed corpse, dressing them up, brushing their hair or even taking pictures with a mummified relative. The Manene is usually held every few years in July or August. The Torajans believe spirits of the dead will linger in the world before their funeral ceremonies and will begin their journey to the land of spirits after their souls are immortalised. The families preserve the body until they are able to save enough money for an elaborate funeral. An embalming process using natural remedies such as sour vinegar and tea leaves was earlier used to preserve the bodies. But now, most families simply inject a formaldehyde solution into the corpse. While the sight is sure to scare onlooking Western tourists, residents are more than happy to clean out the bodies, take pictures and pray for their souls. But the village chief says some locals have gone too far. "The bodies must be treated with the utmost respect in the Manene ritual," Badus said. "Relatives are paying respect to their parents or ancestors and disrespect has consequences."

Indonesian villagers dig up corpses and clean them in afterlife ritual

In pics | Indonesia celebrates its 77th Independence Day in its future capital

Indonesia celebrated its first independence day at its future capital in the ancient rainforests of eastern Borneo on Wednesday as the nation plans a move away from the slowly sinking, traffic-clogged Jakarta.

Nusantara, which is 2,000 kilometres (1,200 miles) from Jakarta, is set to become the new political centre of the world's fourth-largest country.&nbsp;

It is a legacy project of President Joko Widodo, but environmentalists have warned it could accelerate the destruction of tropical jungles home to long-nosed monkeys and orangutans.

The government is preparing to ramp up infrastructure projects to open the doors to the city—which will cover about 56,180 hectares (216 square miles) on Borneo island by the time Widodo leaves office in 2024.&nbsp;

"The main point (of the ceremony) is to take the spirit of the 77th Independence Day to strengthen our resolve and spirit to build the new capital," said State Capital Authority head Bambang Susantono, who will govern the new city.&nbsp;

After the national flag was hoisted by officials to mark the occasion, workers at the site cheered in unison that they were "ready to develop Nusantara," which means archipelago in Indonesian.

Jakarta is home to 30 million people in its greater metro area, and it has long been plagued by serious infrastructure problems and flooding exacerbated by climate change.

It is sinking as much as 25 centimetres (10 inches) a year in some areas -- double the global average for major coastal cities -- with some experts predicting up to a third of the megalopolis could be underwater by 2050.

Government officials say the new capital will take decades to be fully completed and inhabited by its planned population of two million people and will help spread economic growth to an underdeveloped region.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Indonesia celebrated its first independence day at its future capital in the ancient rainforests of eastern Borneo on Wednesday as the nation plans a move away from the slowly sinking, traffic-clogged Jakarta.

Indonesia celebrated its first independence day at its future capital in the ancient rainforests of eastern Borneo on Wednesday as the nation plans a move away from the slowly sinking, traffic-clogged Jakarta. Nusantara, which is 2,000 kilometres (1,200 miles) from Jakarta, is set to become the new political centre of the world's fourth-largest country. It is a legacy project of President Joko Widodo, but environmentalists have warned it could accelerate the destruction of tropical jungles home to long-nosed monkeys and orangutans. The government is preparing to ramp up infrastructure projects to open the doors to the city—which will cover about 56,180 hectares (216 square miles) on Borneo island by the time Widodo leaves office in 2024. "The main point (of the ceremony) is to take the spirit of the 77th Independence Day to strengthen our resolve and spirit to build the new capital," said State Capital Authority head Bambang Susantono, who will govern the new city. After the national flag was hoisted by officials to mark the occasion, workers at the site cheered in unison that they were "ready to develop Nusantara," which means archipelago in Indonesian. Jakarta is home to 30 million people in its greater metro area, and it has long been plagued by serious infrastructure problems and flooding exacerbated by climate change. It is sinking as much as 25 centimetres (10 inches) a year in some areas -- double the global average for major coastal cities -- with some experts predicting up to a third of the megalopolis could be underwater by 2050. Government officials say the new capital will take decades to be fully completed and inhabited by its planned population of two million people and will help spread economic growth to an underdeveloped region. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Nusantara: Indonesia celebrates first independence day at future capital

On Indonesia's Sumatra island, annual combined military drills between the US and Indonesian forces picked up steam on Wednesday. For the first time, soldiers from other alliance countries took part, a demonstration of strengthened ties despite rising Chinese maritime activities in the Indo-Pacific.

The exercises this year featured more than 5,000 soldiers from the US, Indonesia, Australia, Japan, and Singapore, making them the biggest since the drills began in 2009. According to a statement from the US Embassy in Jakarta, the exercises are intended to improve interoperability, capability, trust, and cooperation in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific.

“It's a symbol of the US-Indonesia bond and the growing relationship between land forces in this consequential region,” Gen Charles Flynn, Commanding General of US Army Pacific, said in the statement. “Because land forces are the glue that binds the region's security architecture together.”

In a ceremony on Wednesday morning in the seaside town of Baturaja in the province of South Sumatra, Flynn and Indonesia's Military Chief Gen Andika Perkasa officially began the joint exercises. Exercises involving the army, navy, air force, and marines will continue through August 14.

In response to US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to self-governing Taiwan, which China claims as part of its territory to be annexed by force if necessary, the Chinese Defense Ministry announced Tuesday night that it would conduct a series of targeted military operations to "safeguard national sovereignty." The planned two-week drills have since begun.

Additionally, China has become more adamant about its claim to almost the whole South China Sea. 
The number of interceptions by Chinese aircraft and ships in the Pacific region with US and other partner forces has increased significantly over the past five years, according to US Gen Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and the number of unsafe interactions has increased by comparable amounts.

&nbsp;“The message is the Chinese military, in the air and at sea, have become significantly more and noticeably more aggressive in this particular region,” Milley said last month during a trip to the Indo-Pacific that included a stop in Indonesia.

According to Milley, Indonesia has always been an important US ally and is strategically important to the area. The US granted Indonesia a $13.9 billion sale of cutting-edge fighter planes earlier this year. And in Jakarta in December of last year, agreements for expanded joint naval drills between the US and Indonesia were signed by Secretary of State Antony Blinken.

Although relations between Indonesia and China are usually favourable, Jakarta has voiced alarm over Chinese intrusion into its exclusive economic zone in the South China Sea, which China claims almost entirely.

As the highest-ranking American official to visit the self-governing island in 25 years, Pelosi arrived in Taiwan late on Tuesday, just in time for the US-Indonesia military drills. Beijing sees foreign dignitaries' visits as a confirmation of the sovereignty of the island.

The US and other democracies in the region are supported by a "free and open" Indo-Pacific vision of security and trade, according to Japan's Ground Self-Defence Force, which is taking part in the exercises for the first time. 
China views the increased drills as a threat. The US has been charged with forming an Indo-Pacific alliance akin to NATO in order to purposefully incite conflict, according to Chinese state media.

(With inputs from agencies)

On Indonesia's Sumatra island, annual combined military drills between the US and Indonesian forces picked up steam on Wednesday. For the first time, soldiers from other alliance countries took part, a demonstration of strengthened ties despite rising Chinese maritime activities in the Indo-Pacific.

On Indonesia's Sumatra island, annual combined military drills between the US and Indonesian forces picked up steam on Wednesday. For the first time, soldiers from other alliance countries took part, a demonstration of strengthened ties despite rising Chinese maritime activities in the Indo-Pacific. The exercises this year featured more than 5,000 soldiers from the US, Indonesia, Australia, Japan, and Singapore, making them the biggest since the drills began in 2009. According to a statement from the US Embassy in Jakarta, the exercises are intended to improve interoperability, capability, trust, and cooperation in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific. “It's a symbol of the US-Indonesia bond and the growing relationship between land forces in this consequential region,” Gen Charles Flynn, Commanding General of US Army Pacific, said in the statement. “Because land forces are the glue that binds the region's security architecture together.” In a ceremony on Wednesday morning in the seaside town of Baturaja in the province of South Sumatra, Flynn and Indonesia's Military Chief Gen Andika Perkasa officially began the joint exercises. Exercises involving the army, navy, air force, and marines will continue through August 14. In response to US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to self-governing Taiwan, which China claims as part of its territory to be annexed by force if necessary, the Chinese Defense Ministry announced Tuesday night that it would conduct a series of targeted military operations to "safeguard national sovereignty." The planned two-week drills have since begun. Additionally, China has become more adamant about its claim to almost the whole South China Sea. The number of interceptions by Chinese aircraft and ships in the Pacific region with US and other partner forces has increased significantly over the past five years, according to US Gen Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and the number of unsafe interactions has increased by comparable amounts. “The message is the Chinese military, in the air and at sea, have become significantly more and noticeably more aggressive in this particular region,” Milley said last month during a trip to the Indo-Pacific that included a stop in Indonesia. According to Milley, Indonesia has always been an important US ally and is strategically important to the area. The US granted Indonesia a $13.9 billion sale of cutting-edge fighter planes earlier this year. And in Jakarta in December of last year, agreements for expanded joint naval drills between the US and Indonesia were signed by Secretary of State Antony Blinken. Although relations between Indonesia and China are usually favourable, Jakarta has voiced alarm over Chinese intrusion into its exclusive economic zone in the South China Sea, which China claims almost entirely. As the highest-ranking American official to visit the self-governing island in 25 years, Pelosi arrived in Taiwan late on Tuesday, just in time for the US-Indonesia military drills. Beijing sees foreign dignitaries' visits as a confirmation of the sovereignty of the island. The US and other democracies in the region are supported by a "free and open" Indo-Pacific vision of security and trade, according to Japan's Ground Self-Defence Force, which is taking part in the exercises for the first time. China views the increased drills as a threat. The US has been charged with forming an Indo-Pacific alliance akin to NATO in order to purposefully incite conflict, according to Chinese state media. (With inputs from agencies)

US, Indonesia hold joint military drills amid growing China concerns

As Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern warned, an outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease in Indonesia could cost thousands of New Zealand jobs, as her nation and neighbouring Australia stepped up border biosecurity restrictions.

"While not a threat to humans, it would devastate our national herd. Essentially, all animals that are of cloven hoof are at risk," Ardern told reporters in Wellington.

Ardern warned that the disease, first detected in Indonesia in April, has the potential to threaten up to 100,000 jobs in New Zealand's agriculture sector.

Foot and mouth disease is a severe, highly contagious viral disease of livestock.

It can have a significant economic impact, especially on a country like New Zealand, which exported around 17 million sheep and two million cattle in the eight months up until May 2022.

A foot-and-mouth outbreak has ripped through two Indonesian provinces, killing thousands of cows and infecting hundreds of thousands more.

Ardern said New Zealand has never had an outbreak and wants to keep it that way by tightening border restrictions.

"We want to make sure that we've got all our settings in place to protect ourselves from this emerging threat," she added.

Ardern stated that it is critical to prevent it from entering the country, possibly through Australian tourists who have visited Southeast Asia.

Travellers from Indonesia will not be allowed to bring meat products into New Zealand. Baggage will be screened, and there will be disinfectant mats at airports to clean footwear.

In Australia, parcels and baggage from China and Indonesia are now being checked, and there are also foot mats at airports in response to the disease.

Canberra has so far rejected opposition calls to close the border to Indonesia completely, but further measures have not been ruled out.

Ardern said her government is working with Australian authorities to try to further reduce the risk.

New Zealand is set to fully open its borders at midnight on Sunday to all visitors.

New Zealand's Biosecurity Minister Damien O'Connor said "vigilance is absolutely crucial" as the disease could also affect up to 77 percent of the country's wildlife population, including wild deer, pigs and sheep.

He referred to how foot and mouth devastated British farming in 2001 when millions of cattle and sheep had to be slaughtered. 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

As Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern warned, an outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease in Indonesia could cost thousands of New Zealand jobs, as her nation and neighbouring Australia stepped up border biosecurity restrictions.

As Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern warned, an outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease in Indonesia could cost thousands of New Zealand jobs, as her nation and neighbouring Australia stepped up border biosecurity restrictions. "While not a threat to humans, it would devastate our national herd. Essentially, all animals that are of cloven hoof are at risk," Ardern told reporters in Wellington. Ardern warned that the disease, first detected in Indonesia in April, has the potential to threaten up to 100,000 jobs in New Zealand's agriculture sector. Foot and mouth disease is a severe, highly contagious viral disease of livestock. It can have a significant economic impact, especially on a country like New Zealand, which exported around 17 million sheep and two million cattle in the eight months up until May 2022. A foot-and-mouth outbreak has ripped through two Indonesian provinces, killing thousands of cows and infecting hundreds of thousands more. Ardern said New Zealand has never had an outbreak and wants to keep it that way by tightening border restrictions. "We want to make sure that we've got all our settings in place to protect ourselves from this emerging threat," she added. Ardern stated that it is critical to prevent it from entering the country, possibly through Australian tourists who have visited Southeast Asia. Travellers from Indonesia will not be allowed to bring meat products into New Zealand. Baggage will be screened, and there will be disinfectant mats at airports to clean footwear. In Australia, parcels and baggage from China and Indonesia are now being checked, and there are also foot mats at airports in response to the disease. Canberra has so far rejected opposition calls to close the border to Indonesia completely, but further measures have not been ruled out. Ardern said her government is working with Australian authorities to try to further reduce the risk. New Zealand is set to fully open its borders at midnight on Sunday to all visitors. New Zealand's Biosecurity Minister Damien O'Connor said "vigilance is absolutely crucial" as the disease could also affect up to 77 percent of the country's wildlife population, including wild deer, pigs and sheep. He referred to how foot and mouth devastated British farming in 2001 when millions of cattle and sheep had to be slaughtered. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Indonesia foot and mouth outbreak prompts New Zealand, Australia restrictions

Finance ministers of the G20 are meeting in Bali amid fears of a global recession. Their last meeting in April ended in failure after western leaders walked out to protest Russia's participation. Will this meeting be any different? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: G20 finance ministers huddle amid recession fears

The top diplomats from the United States and China voiced guarded hope Saturday of preventing tensions from spiralling out of control as they held rare talks on the Indonesian island of Bali, after attending a G20 summit where the top U.S. diplomat led efforts to pressure Russia over its war in Ukraine. Blinken told reporters at the beginning of the meeting, "There is no substitute for face-to-face... diplomacy, and in a relationship as complex and consequential as the one between the United States and China there is a lot to talk about. We very much look forward to a productive and constructive conversation."

Blinken is expected to repeat warnings to China not to support Russia's war in Ukraine and the two sides will address contentious issues that include Taiwan, China's extensive South China Sea claims, its expansion of influence in the Pacific, human rights, and trade tariffs. However, both sides share an interest in keeping the relationship stable and Blinken and U.S. officials say President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping are expected to speak again in the coming weeks, something Saturday's meeting is likely to address.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/from-volatile-courtship-to-messy-divorce-elon-musks-love-hate-affair-with-twitter-495725">From volatile courtship to messy divorce: Elon Musk's love-hate affair with Twitter</a>

As reported by Reuters, Wang said, "China and the United States are two major countries, so it is necessary for the two countries to maintain normal exchanges. At the same time, we do need to talk together to ensure that this relationship will continue to move forward along the right track." After a long chill during the pandemic between the two countries, since last month their defence, finance and national security chiefs as well as their top military commanders have all spoken. China's state-run Global Times, known for its criticism of the United States, wrote that the growing diplomacy "underscored the two sides' consensus on avoiding escalating confrontation".

US views of China have hardened in recent years and Biden has largely maintained the substance of his predecessor Donald Trump's hardline approach of treating Beijing as the pre-eminent global competitor of the United States. But Blinken in a recent speech made clear that the United States was not seeking a new "Cold War," even as he held firm on criticism -- including accusing Beijing of genocide against the mostly Muslim Uyghur people. The Biden administration is widely expected soon to ease some of Trump's tariffs on Chinese goods, a move that could ease soaring inflation, which has become a major political liability in the United States.

(with inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

The top diplomats from the United States and China voiced guarded hope Saturday of preventing tensions from spiralling out of control as they held rare talks on the Indonesian island of Bali, after attending a G20 summit where the top U.

The top diplomats from the United States and China voiced guarded hope Saturday of preventing tensions from spiralling out of control as they held rare talks on the Indonesian island of Bali, after attending a G20 summit where the top U.S. diplomat led efforts to pressure Russia over its war in Ukraine. Blinken told reporters at the beginning of the meeting, "There is no substitute for face-to-face... diplomacy, and in a relationship as complex and consequential as the one between the United States and China there is a lot to talk about. We very much look forward to a productive and constructive conversation." Blinken is expected to repeat warnings to China not to support Russia's war in Ukraine and the two sides will address contentious issues that include Taiwan, China's extensive South China Sea claims, its expansion of influence in the Pacific, human rights, and trade tariffs. However, both sides share an interest in keeping the relationship stable and Blinken and U.S. officials say President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping are expected to speak again in the coming weeks, something Saturday's meeting is likely to address. Also Read: From volatile courtship to messy divorce: Elon Musk's love-hate affair with Twitter As reported by Reuters, Wang said, "China and the United States are two major countries, so it is necessary for the two countries to maintain normal exchanges. At the same time, we do need to talk together to ensure that this relationship will continue to move forward along the right track." After a long chill during the pandemic between the two countries, since last month their defence, finance and national security chiefs as well as their top military commanders have all spoken. China's state-run Global Times, known for its criticism of the United States, wrote that the growing diplomacy "underscored the two sides' consensus on avoiding escalating confrontation". US views of China have hardened in recent years and Biden has largely maintained the substance of his predecessor Donald Trump's hardline approach of treating Beijing as the pre-eminent global competitor of the United States. But Blinken in a recent speech made clear that the United States was not seeking a new "Cold War," even as he held firm on criticism -- including accusing Beijing of genocide against the mostly Muslim Uyghur people. The Biden administration is widely expected soon to ease some of Trump's tariffs on Chinese goods, a move that could ease soaring inflation, which has become a major political liability in the United States. (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US-China top diplomats reach consensus on not seeking new 'Cold War' on sidelines of G20 summit

A small fishing Village in Indonesia has organized a puppet show for children and a man is teaching eager children all about a critically endangered species and spreading awareness about Javan Rhino.

WION Climate Tracker: Indonesia: Puppeteer dedicates his life to conserve Javan rhinos

Foreign ministers from the Group of 20 countries begin meeting on the Indonesian resort island of Bali on Friday. The G20 meeting is looking to tackle the Russia-Ukraine war's impact on food and energy security.

G20 Foreign Ministers Meet: Russia-Ukraine war tops the agenda

External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar will be taking part in the G20 foreign ministers meet to take place in Indonesia's Bali later this month. The foreign ministers meet, which takes place just before the summit, will take place from July 7-8th. Indonesia is the chair of the G20 this year, and will host the summit in Bali, the only Hindu majority province of the Muslim majority country, in mid-November.

This year's G20 meeting has been dominated by the Russian invasion of Ukraine, with western nations not keen on presence of the Russian President Putin at the summit. Indonesia as the chair decided on countries' participation and wants all member countries of the grouping to be present at the summit, including Russian President.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/china-slams-indias-decision-to-hold-g20-meeting-in-jammu-and-kashmir-493429">China slams India's decision to hold G20 meeting in Jammu and Kashmir</a>

At the Foreign Ministers level meet, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov will be present. Indonesia has also invited Ukraine's foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba at the meet.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-asks-china-turkey-saudi-arabia-to-boycott-g20-meeting-in-jk-report-493091">Pakistan to ask China, Turkey, Saudi Arabia to boycott G20 meeting in J&amp;K: Report</a>

In the last few days, Indonesian President Joko Widodo is seen engaging in active diplomacy even as he visited Ukraine's capital Kyiv and Russian capital Moscow. President Widodo was in Germany last week for the G7, and also held a bilateral with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. During the bilateral meet, they discussed the G20 chairmanship. India is the chair of the grouping for next year and will hold the summit in Delhi. In December, India will be chair of SCO, G20 &amp; UNSC.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

&nbsp;

External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar will be taking part in the G20 foreign ministers meet to take place in Indonesia's Bali later this month. The foreign ministers meet, which takes place just before the summit, will take place from July 7-8th.

External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar will be taking part in the G20 foreign ministers meet to take place in Indonesia's Bali later this month. The foreign ministers meet, which takes place just before the summit, will take place from July 7-8th. Indonesia is the chair of the G20 this year, and will host the summit in Bali, the only Hindu majority province of the Muslim majority country, in mid-November. This year's G20 meeting has been dominated by the Russian invasion of Ukraine, with western nations not keen on presence of the Russian President Putin at the summit. Indonesia as the chair decided on countries' participation and wants all member countries of the grouping to be present at the summit, including Russian President. Also read | China slams India's decision to hold G20 meeting in Jammu and Kashmir At the Foreign Ministers level meet, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov will be present. Indonesia has also invited Ukraine's foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba at the meet. Also read | Pakistan to ask China, Turkey, Saudi Arabia to boycott G20 meeting in J&K: Report In the last few days, Indonesian President Joko Widodo is seen engaging in active diplomacy even as he visited Ukraine's capital Kyiv and Russian capital Moscow. President Widodo was in Germany last week for the G7, and also held a bilateral with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. During the bilateral meet, they discussed the G20 chairmanship. India is the chair of the grouping for next year and will hold the summit in Delhi. In December, India will be chair of SCO, G20 & UNSC. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India’s Jaishankar to take part in Indonesia G20 FMs Meet

Indonesia to start building new capital city worth $34 billion in August - see pics

Indonesia is working on a five-year visa for overseas employees of Airbnb, Twitter, and a number of other companies that have begun enabling their employees to work remotely, according to Bloomberg.

In an interview on Monday, Tourism Minister Sandiaga Uno said in an interview on Monday that ecotourism, athletic events, and a special five-year visa for remote workers should bring 3.6 million foreign passengers back to the archipelago now that borders have reopened. He stated that this will help Indonesians create over a million jobs.

"In the past, the three S were: sun, sea, and sand. We’re moving it to serenity, spirituality, and sustainability. This way, we’re getting better quality and a better impact on the local economy, "Uno told Bloomberg Television.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-uk-visa-option-for-graduates-including-indians-from-worlds-best-universities-483589">New UK visa option for graduates, including Indians, from world's best universities</a>

As long as COVID-19 instances remain low and booster doses are rolled out, Southeast Asia's largest economy has removed the majority of its travel restrictions, enabling fully-vaccinated tourists to enter without testing or quarantine. Tourist arrivals increased by 500 percent to 111,000 in April, the highest monthly total since the outbreak.

Watch |&nbsp;European Commission seeks to end golden visa rules

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/european-commission-seeks-to-end-golden-visa-rules-466538/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Due to its tropical climate and low cost of living, Bali is already a popular—and sometimes contentious—destination for digital nomads. However, digital nomads operating in Bali operate in a legal grey area at best.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesias-decision-to-ban-palm-oil-exports-sparks-global-food-inflation-concerns-report-473942">&nbsp;Indonesia’s decision to ban palm oil exports sparks global food inflation concerns: Report</a>

Currently, tourists can apply for a 60-day tourist visa or a six-month temporary work permit by jumping through various legal hoops. However, anyone who stays in Indonesia for more than 183 days in a calendar year automatically becomes a local tax resident, submitting their foreign earnings to Indonesian tax rates.

The top tax bracket in Indonesia is 35 percent, which applies to income over $350,000. While this is lower than in the United States (which has a 35 percent tax bracket between $215,950 and $539,900) and the United Kingdom (which charges a 45 percent rate for income above $187,000), it is still higher than in other potential digital nomad hubs. Dubai, which has its own one-year renewable "digital nomad" visa, does not charge any income tax, regardless of the type of visa.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Indonesia is working on a five-year visa for overseas employees of Airbnb, Twitter, and a number of other companies that have begun enabling their employees to work remotely, according to Bloomberg.

Indonesia is working on a five-year visa for overseas employees of Airbnb, Twitter, and a number of other companies that have begun enabling their employees to work remotely, according to Bloomberg. In an interview on Monday, Tourism Minister Sandiaga Uno said in an interview on Monday that ecotourism, athletic events, and a special five-year visa for remote workers should bring 3.6 million foreign passengers back to the archipelago now that borders have reopened. He stated that this will help Indonesians create over a million jobs. "In the past, the three S were: sun, sea, and sand. We’re moving it to serenity, spirituality, and sustainability. This way, we’re getting better quality and a better impact on the local economy, "Uno told Bloomberg Television. Also read | New UK visa option for graduates, including Indians, from world's best universities As long as COVID-19 instances remain low and booster doses are rolled out, Southeast Asia's largest economy has removed the majority of its travel restrictions, enabling fully-vaccinated tourists to enter without testing or quarantine. Tourist arrivals increased by 500 percent to 111,000 in April, the highest monthly total since the outbreak. Watch | European Commission seeks to end golden visa rules Due to its tropical climate and low cost of living, Bali is already a popular—and sometimes contentious—destination for digital nomads. However, digital nomads operating in Bali operate in a legal grey area at best. Also read | Indonesia’s decision to ban palm oil exports sparks global food inflation concerns: Report Currently, tourists can apply for a 60-day tourist visa or a six-month temporary work permit by jumping through various legal hoops. However, anyone who stays in Indonesia for more than 183 days in a calendar year automatically becomes a local tax resident, submitting their foreign earnings to Indonesian tax rates. The top tax bracket in Indonesia is 35 percent, which applies to income over $350,000. While this is lower than in the United States (which has a 35 percent tax bracket between $215,950 and $539,900) and the United Kingdom (which charges a 45 percent rate for income above $187,000), it is still higher than in other potential digital nomad hubs. Dubai, which has its own one-year renewable "digital nomad" visa, does not charge any income tax, regardless of the type of visa. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Work from Indonesia: Digital nomads, remote workers can live in Bali with 5-year-visa

Indonesian police have arrested Mitsuhiro Taniguchi (47) a fugitive accused of masterminding a lucrative scheme in his native Japan to defraud a government fund offering Covid relief subsidies in Lampung province in the south of Sumatra island late Tuesday.

He was flown to the capital Jakarta, said national police spokesman Dedi Prasetyo.

The Japanese national and several associates are accused of submitting false applications to claim 960 million yen ($7.2 million) in Covid-19 relief funds meant for small businesses, according to Japanese media reports.

He was caught in a joint operation by immigration officers and local police, Prasetyo said, without giving details about the case. It came after the Japanese embassy alerted Indonesian authorities to the whereabouts of a

Japanese national whose passport had been revoked.&nbsp;

Indonesian police in a statement Wednesday said their Japanese counterparts had been "investigating an alleged fraud of subsidies for small businesses affected by the Covid-19 pandemic", but they did not confirm the amount accrued by Taniguchi's brazen scheme.

Tokyo's Metropolitan Police Department had placed Taniguchi on an international wanted list after arresting his ex-wife and two sons on May 30 on suspicion of fraud, Japanese newspaper Asahi Shimbun reported.

Taniguchi will be deported in coordination with the embassy, Lampung immigration official Is Edy Eko Putranto told a press conference where the Japanese suspect was paraded before the media.

Police attache at the Japanese embassy Takayuki Miyagawa told the press conference the fugitive was arrested for "deceiving the Japan government for subsidies regarding Covid-19".

Taniguchi reportedly entered Indonesia in October 2020, several months after the scheme was uncovered by Japanese police. He was living in Jakarta and frequently travelled to do business in Lampung, where he had been staying for a week when he was arrested.&nbsp;

The fugitive was using a limited-stay visa and was working in the country as a foreign investor helping locals to run fish farms, reportedly to raise money to appease his alleged collaborators.

[with inputs from agencies]

Indonesian police have arrested Mitsuhiro Taniguchi (47) a fugitive accused of masterminding a lucrative scheme in his native Japan to defraud a government fund offering Covid relief subsidies in Lampung province in the south of Sumatra island late Tuesday.

Indonesian police have arrested Mitsuhiro Taniguchi (47) a fugitive accused of masterminding a lucrative scheme in his native Japan to defraud a government fund offering Covid relief subsidies in Lampung province in the south of Sumatra island late Tuesday. He was flown to the capital Jakarta, said national police spokesman Dedi Prasetyo. The Japanese national and several associates are accused of submitting false applications to claim 960 million yen ($7.2 million) in Covid-19 relief funds meant for small businesses, according to Japanese media reports. He was caught in a joint operation by immigration officers and local police, Prasetyo said, without giving details about the case. It came after the Japanese embassy alerted Indonesian authorities to the whereabouts of a Japanese national whose passport had been revoked. Indonesian police in a statement Wednesday said their Japanese counterparts had been "investigating an alleged fraud of subsidies for small businesses affected by the Covid-19 pandemic", but they did not confirm the amount accrued by Taniguchi's brazen scheme. Tokyo's Metropolitan Police Department had placed Taniguchi on an international wanted list after arresting his ex-wife and two sons on May 30 on suspicion of fraud, Japanese newspaper Asahi Shimbun reported. Taniguchi will be deported in coordination with the embassy, Lampung immigration official Is Edy Eko Putranto told a press conference where the Japanese suspect was paraded before the media. Police attache at the Japanese embassy Takayuki Miyagawa told the press conference the fugitive was arrested for "deceiving the Japan government for subsidies regarding Covid-19". Taniguchi reportedly entered Indonesia in October 2020, several months after the scheme was uncovered by Japanese police. He was living in Jakarta and frequently travelled to do business in Lampung, where he had been staying for a week when he was arrested. The fugitive was using a limited-stay visa and was working in the country as a foreign investor helping locals to run fish farms, reportedly to raise money to appease his alleged collaborators. [with inputs from agencies]

Japanese fugitive accused of defrauding Covid relief fund in Indonesia arrested

India's palm oil exports in May were its highest in seven months and up 15 per cent&nbsp;on April as the country overcame curbs&nbsp;on Indonesian exports by sourcing more of the commodity from Malaysia, Thailand and Papua New Guinea, five industry officials said. 
 
Higher purchases by India, the world's biggest importer of vegetable oil, could support Malaysian palm oil prices, which are trading near a record high.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/edible-oil-prices-may-rise-further-in-india-due-to-indonesias-palm-oil-export-ban-473118">Also read |&nbsp;Edible oil prices may rise further in India due to Indonesia's palm oil export ban</a>

India imported 660,000 tonnes of palm oil in May, up from 572,508 tonnes in April, according to the average estimate from five dealers. 
 
Indian imports from Indonesia fell in May, but refiners managed to buy more from Malaysia, Thailand and Papua New Guinea, said Sandeep Bajoria, chief executive of Sunvin Group, a vegetable oil brokerage and consultancy.

Watch&nbsp;|&nbsp;Economic fall out of Russia-Ukraine war: Indonesia bans palm oil exports

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/economic-fall-out-of-russia-ukraine-war-indonesia-bans-palm-oil-exports-473409/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe>

 
Indonesia, the world's biggest producer and exporter of palm oil, on April 28 halted exports of the product to control soaring prices at home. Jakarta allowed exports to resume from May 23 but put in place policies to safeguard domestic supplies. 
 
The Solvent Extractors' Association of India, a trade body based in Mumbai, is likely to publish May's import figure in mid-June. 
 
India's soyoil imports in May rose to 352,614 tonnes from 315,853 tonnes in April, said a senior government official, who declined to be named.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/as-290000-tonne-shipments-get-trapped-indonesian-palm-oil-export-ban-to-hit-india-badly-474737">Also Read |&nbsp;As 290,000-tonne shipments get trapped, Indonesian palm oil export ban to hit India badly</a> 
 
The country's soyoil imports could rise sharply in coming months, because New Delhi has allowed duty free imports of 2 million tonnes of the commodity, said a Mumbai-based dealer with a global trading firm. 
 
Sunflower oil imports jumped to 123,970 tonnes in May from 67,788 tonnes a month earlier, the government official said. 
 
India buys soyoil mainly from Argentina and Brazil and sunflower oil from Ukraine and Russia. 
 
"As sunoil shipments from Ukraine have stopped, India is trying to import more from Russia," the dealer said.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

India's palm oil exports in May were its highest in seven months and up 15 per cent on April as the country overcame curbs on Indonesian exports by sourcing more of the commodity from Malaysia, Thailand and Papua New Guinea, five industry officials said.

India's palm oil exports in May were its highest in seven months and up 15 per cent on April as the country overcame curbs on Indonesian exports by sourcing more of the commodity from Malaysia, Thailand and Papua New Guinea, five industry officials said. Higher purchases by India, the world's biggest importer of vegetable oil, could support Malaysian palm oil prices, which are trading near a record high. Also read | Edible oil prices may rise further in India due to Indonesia's palm oil export ban India imported 660,000 tonnes of palm oil in May, up from 572,508 tonnes in April, according to the average estimate from five dealers. Indian imports from Indonesia fell in May, but refiners managed to buy more from Malaysia, Thailand and Papua New Guinea, said Sandeep Bajoria, chief executive of Sunvin Group, a vegetable oil brokerage and consultancy. Watch | Economic fall out of Russia-Ukraine war: Indonesia bans palm oil exports Indonesia, the world's biggest producer and exporter of palm oil, on April 28 halted exports of the product to control soaring prices at home. Jakarta allowed exports to resume from May 23 but put in place policies to safeguard domestic supplies. The Solvent Extractors' Association of India, a trade body based in Mumbai, is likely to publish May's import figure in mid-June. India's soyoil imports in May rose to 352,614 tonnes from 315,853 tonnes in April, said a senior government official, who declined to be named. Also Read | As 290,000-tonne shipments get trapped, Indonesian palm oil export ban to hit India badly The country's soyoil imports could rise sharply in coming months, because New Delhi has allowed duty free imports of 2 million tonnes of the commodity, said a Mumbai-based dealer with a global trading firm. Sunflower oil imports jumped to 123,970 tonnes in May from 67,788 tonnes a month earlier, the government official said. India buys soyoil mainly from Argentina and Brazil and sunflower oil from Ukraine and Russia. "As sunoil shipments from Ukraine have stopped, India is trying to import more from Russia," the dealer said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India's May palm oil imports surge to 7-month high despite Indonesia's ban-dealers

Indonesian President Joko Widodo and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in a briefing hinted to mutually improving trade and investment ties.

Australia promises to improve trade & investment ties with Indonesia

Bali has improved its bird monitoring systems in a bid to boost the Mynah population. Bird sellers are helping make endangered Mynah make a comeback.

Bali improves bird monitoring systems in a bid to boost the Mynah population

According to reports, at least 26 people are missing after a boat carrying 43 people capsized in Indonesia. 17 passengers were rescued by two tugboats.

Indonesian boat carrying 43 capsized, 26 people missing

Indonesian President Joko Widodo announced on Thursday (May 19) that the embargo on palm oil exports will be lifted in the coming week, bringing relief to global markets where prices of edible prices have soared due to trade disruptions, the Ukraine conflict and global warming

Click on the headlines to read more:&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesia-announces-to-lift-palm-oil-exports-ban-from-monday-480421">Indonesia announces to lift palm oil exports ban from Monday</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/05/19/263536-oil.jpg" />

Indonesia, the world's top palm oil producer, had stopped the exports of crude palm oil (CPO) and some derivative products since April 28 in a bid to tame soaring prices of domestic cooking oil.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-girls-school-education-linked-to-hijab-taliban-promises-good-news-soon-480424">Afghanistan girls' school education issue linked to hijab, Taliban promises 'good news' soon</a>

&nbsp;

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/05/19/263538-untitled-design-1.jpg" />Since the Taliban retook control of Afghanistan in August 2021, the group has made numerous promises regarding women's rights in the country. However the group has failed to keep its promises, instead, the group has issued diktats curbing the rights of Afghan women and girls.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-warns-of-political-attacks-on-him-and-plans-to-vote-republican-480427" hreflang="en">Elon Musk warns of political attacks on him and plans to ‘vote Republican’</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/04/29/258231-elon-musk-tesla.jpg" />

Elon Musk, the tech billionaire, said today that he will now vote Republican, intensifying his attacks on Democrats in new tweets. He went on to say that he used to support and vote for Democrats because they were "primarily the compassion party," but that they had now turned into a party of "division and hate."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/expensive-coffee-customer-at-italy-coffee-bar-calls-police-over-price-of-espresso-480334">Expensive coffee: Customer at Italy coffee bar calls police over price of espresso</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/03/26/250246-coffee.jpg" />

After an upset client complained to the police over the price of a hot drink, a Florence coffee shop was fined $1,048. On Monday, the Florence coffee shop Ditta Artigianale was fined for failing to publish the price of a cup of coffee on its counter. One client had complained to the police about the $2.01 price of a decaffeinated cup of coffee.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/worlds-oceans-at-most-acidic-level-in-26000-years-climate-report-warns-480375">World’s oceans at most acidic level in 26,000 years, climate report warns</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/05/19/263502-untitled-design-26.jpg" />

The world's&nbsp;oceans&nbsp;grew to their warmest and&nbsp;most&nbsp;acidic&nbsp;levels on record last year, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) said on Wednesday, as United Nations officials warned that war in Ukraine threatened global&nbsp;climate&nbsp;commitments.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/superstitious-cambodian-pm-changes-his-birth-date-to-avert-bad-luck-480443">Superstitious Cambodian PM changes his birth date to avert bad luck</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/05/19/263556-pm.jpeg" />

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen has decided to change his official date of birth to the date he was actually born in order to closely align with the Chinese zodiac calendar.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ex-us-prez-george-bush-condemns-iraq-invasion-instead-of-ukrainian-war-in-major-gaffe-480402">Watch: Ex-US prez George Bush condemns Iraq invasion instead of Ukrainian war in major gaffe</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/05/19/263518-bush.jpg" />

Former US president George W Bush made a major slip-up when he condemned the “brutal” and “unjustified” invasion of Iraq instead of referring to the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jake-daniels-becomes-uks-1st-active-male-professional-footballer-to-admit-being-gay-reveals-inspiration-480355">Jake Daniels becomes UK's 1st active gay male professional footballer; reveals 'inspiration'</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/05/19/263484-daniels-becomes-uks-1st-active-male-professional-fballer-to-admit-being-gay.jpg" />Young English soccer player Jake Daniels came out in the open of being gay earlier this week. Thus, he became the first male active professional football player&nbsp;(since 1990 when Justin Fashanu revealed the same) who openly revealed&nbsp;his sexuality, i.e. being gay.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-pope-francis-says-he-needs-a-shot-of-tequila-for-his-knee-pain-480395">Watch: Pope Francis says he needs a shot of tequila for his knee pain</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/01/01/230785-pope-francis.jpg" />Pope Francis has been suffering from severe knee discomfort, prompting his medical experts to recommend a wheelchair, cane, and physical therapy to aid his recovery. However, it appears that the Pope has a different plan in mind.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/ed-files-money-laundering-case-against-shilpa-shettys-husband-raj-kundra-480373">Raj Kundra porn case: ED files money laundering charge against Shilpa Shetty's husband</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2018/09/12/49404-Raj1.jpg" />The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has registered a money laundering case against businessman Raj Kundra in connection with the production and circulation of pornography films. Kundra is married to Bollywood star Shilpa Shetty.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;
</div>

Indonesian President Joko Widodo announced on Thursday (May 19) that the embargo on palm oil exports will be lifted in the coming week, bringing relief to global markets where prices of edible prices have soared due to trade disruptions, the Ukraine conflict and global warming Click on the headlines to read more: Indonesia announces to lift palm oil exports ban from Monday Indonesia, the world's top palm oil producer, had stopped the exports of crude palm oil (CPO) and some derivative products since April 28 in a bid to tame soaring prices of domestic cooking oil.

Indonesian President Joko Widodo announced on Thursday (May 19) that the embargo on palm oil exports will be lifted in the coming week, bringing relief to global markets where prices of edible prices have soared due to trade disruptions, the Ukraine conflict and global warming Click on the headlines to read more: Indonesia announces to lift palm oil exports ban from Monday Indonesia, the world's top palm oil producer, had stopped the exports of crude palm oil (CPO) and some derivative products since April 28 in a bid to tame soaring prices of domestic cooking oil. Afghanistan girls' school education issue linked to hijab, Taliban promises 'good news' soon Since the Taliban retook control of Afghanistan in August 2021, the group has made numerous promises regarding women's rights in the country. However the group has failed to keep its promises, instead, the group has issued diktats curbing the rights of Afghan women and girls. Elon Musk warns of political attacks on him and plans to ‘vote Republican’ Elon Musk, the tech billionaire, said today that he will now vote Republican, intensifying his attacks on Democrats in new tweets. He went on to say that he used to support and vote for Democrats because they were "primarily the compassion party," but that they had now turned into a party of "division and hate." Expensive coffee: Customer at Italy coffee bar calls police over price of espresso After an upset client complained to the police over the price of a hot drink, a Florence coffee shop was fined $1,048. On Monday, the Florence coffee shop Ditta Artigianale was fined for failing to publish the price of a cup of coffee on its counter. One client had complained to the police about the $2.01 price of a decaffeinated cup of coffee. World’s oceans at most acidic level in 26,000 years, climate report warns The world's oceans grew to their warmest and most acidic levels on record last year, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) said on Wednesday, as United Nations officials warned that war in Ukraine threatened global climate commitments. Superstitious Cambodian PM changes his birth date to avert bad luck Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen has decided to change his official date of birth to the date he was actually born in order to closely align with the Chinese zodiac calendar. Watch: Ex-US prez George Bush condemns Iraq invasion instead of Ukrainian war in major gaffe Former US president George W Bush made a major slip-up when he condemned the “brutal” and “unjustified” invasion of Iraq instead of referring to the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Jake Daniels becomes UK's 1st active gay male professional footballer; reveals 'inspiration' Young English soccer player Jake Daniels came out in the open of being gay earlier this week. Thus, he became the first male active professional football player (since 1990 when Justin Fashanu revealed the same) who openly revealed his sexuality, i.e. being gay. Watch: Pope Francis says he needs a shot of tequila for his knee pain Pope Francis has been suffering from severe knee discomfort, prompting his medical experts to recommend a wheelchair, cane, and physical therapy to aid his recovery. However, it appears that the Pope has a different plan in mind. Raj Kundra porn case: ED files money laundering charge against Shilpa Shetty's husband The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has registered a money laundering case against businessman Raj Kundra in connection with the production and circulation of pornography films. Kundra is married to Bollywood star Shilpa Shetty.

Top 10 world news: Indonesia lifts palm oil export ban, UK's 1st active gay footballer and more

Do you remember the Hobbits from the insanely popular book and movie series Lord of the Rings? Looked like us humans, but shorter.

What if we were to tell you that humans actually had an ancestor that is pretty similar to J.R.R Tolkien's character? These ancient humans are still alive, according to claims.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/2-years-after-the-devastating-notre-dame-fire-preventative-archaeological-dig-uncovers-cultural-treasures-471134">Two years after devastating Notre Dame fire, 'preventative' archaeological dig uncovers cultural treasures</a>

Yes, you read that right. As per claims presented by Gregory Forth, a retired anthropologist in his new book 'Between Ape and Human', the species called Homo Floresiensis is still alive and well. It lives on the Indonesian island of Flores, surviving the modern era.

Homo Floresiensis is a Lilliputian early human species that are&nbsp;believed to have existed approximately 60,00 to 700,000 years ago.

Watch |&nbsp;South Africa's first legal cannabis pharmacy: Govt backs cannabis for medicinal use

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-africas-first-legal-cannabis-pharmacy-govt-backs-cannabis-for-medicinal-use-475262/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The species had been nicknamed 'hobbit' because of its small height; it is believed to have stood at under 4 feet, an approximate guess is 3 feet, 6 inches or 106 centimetres tall.

They were toolmakers and as of now, not much is known about their evolutionary history.

<img alt="Human ancestor" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="09a6c362-b9eb-4a1d-8489-5d8d32891fd1" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/stories%20%284%29_2.jpg" />

In the modern-day, there have been claims of sightings of Hobbit-like people in Flores and Forth argues that it could very well be our ancestors.

Speaking to Live Science, he said that we simply don't know when this species became extinct or "dare I say -- we don't even know if it is extinct".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/most-complete-skeleton-of-deinonychus-species-that-inspired-jurassic-parks-velociraptor-to-go-on-sale-475296" hreflang="en">Most complete skeleton of Deinonychus, species that inspired Jurassic Park’s velociraptor, to go on sale</a>

However, experts are sceptical about this claim. Some say that for a species to evade detection on an island of close to two million people is nearly impossible.

Whether Homo Floresiensis actually exists today or not remains to be seen. It could just be another enigma like the sasquatch or bigfoot, but stories about odd, seemingly alien creatures have always piqued people's interest, and this is no exception.

Watch WION LIVE HERE:

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

(With inputs from agencies)

Do you remember the Hobbits from the insanely popular book and movie series Lord of the Rings? Looked like us humans, but shorter. What if we were to tell you that humans actually had an ancestor that is pretty similar to J.

Do you remember the Hobbits from the insanely popular book and movie series Lord of the Rings? Looked like us humans, but shorter. What if we were to tell you that humans actually had an ancestor that is pretty similar to J.R.R Tolkien's character? These ancient humans are still alive, according to claims. Also read | Two years after devastating Notre Dame fire, 'preventative' archaeological dig uncovers cultural treasures Yes, you read that right. As per claims presented by Gregory Forth, a retired anthropologist in his new book 'Between Ape and Human', the species called Homo Floresiensis is still alive and well. It lives on the Indonesian island of Flores, surviving the modern era. Homo Floresiensis is a Lilliputian early human species that are believed to have existed approximately 60,00 to 700,000 years ago. Watch | South Africa's first legal cannabis pharmacy: Govt backs cannabis for medicinal use The species had been nicknamed 'hobbit' because of its small height; it is believed to have stood at under 4 feet, an approximate guess is 3 feet, 6 inches or 106 centimetres tall. They were toolmakers and as of now, not much is known about their evolutionary history. In the modern-day, there have been claims of sightings of Hobbit-like people in Flores and Forth argues that it could very well be our ancestors. Speaking to Live Science, he said that we simply don't know when this species became extinct or "dare I say -- we don't even know if it is extinct". Also read | Most complete skeleton of Deinonychus, species that inspired Jurassic Park’s velociraptor, to go on sale However, experts are sceptical about this claim. Some say that for a species to evade detection on an island of close to two million people is nearly impossible. Whether Homo Floresiensis actually exists today or not remains to be seen. It could just be another enigma like the sasquatch or bigfoot, but stories about odd, seemingly alien creatures have always piqued people's interest, and this is no exception. Watch WION LIVE HERE: (With inputs from agencies)

Claims of an ancient human in the modern era shake the scientific community. Here's what you need to know

In pics: With Ramadan coming to an end, Muslims prepare for Eid al-Fitr worldwide

In pics: Millions of people travel back home in Indonesia to celebrate Eid al-Fitr

Indonesia, the top palm oil exporter, has banned the export of edible oil. Ukraine, the top sunflower oil exporter, is at war. Our world is in the middle of a cooking oil crisis. Your kitchens will soon feel the burn. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Indonesia bans export of palm oil

The Russian invasion of Ukraine has entered its third month and the constant attacks on Ukrainian cities continue with Russia looking to find a proper foothold in the country. The tensions are at an all-time high with Russia not backing down and more sanctions being announced by Europe.

However, there can be a meeting between the head of the two warring nations in the near future as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has been invited to the G20 summit to be held in Bali in November this year by the Indonesian prime minister Joko Widodo as the leader of the host nation.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-union-is-redrawing-blocs-energy-map-to-overcome-its-reliance-on-russia-474904">EU is redrawing bloc's energy map to overcome its reliance on Russia</a>

“I have invited President Zelenskyy to attend the G20 summit,” PM Widodo said in his address.

Russia is an important member of the G20 and president Vladmir Putin has confirmed that he will be attending the summit. Widodo said that he received a phone call from Putin confirming his participation but it remains to be seen whether he attends in person or virtually.

According to an AFP report, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said that Russia is preparing for this year’s G20 summit but he did not comment on whether Putin will be visiting Indonesia.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/end-of-regulatory-crackdown-china-to-hold-symposium-with-the-countrys-big-tech-firms-474875">End of regulatory crackdown? China to hold symposium with Big Tech firms</a>

Zelensky thanked Widodo for the invitation and appreciated his support for "sovereignty and territorial integrity, in particular for a clear position in the" United Nations" with respect to Ukraine.

The invitation extended to Zelensky is a special one on behalf of the head of the host nation as Ukraine is currently not a part of the G20.

WATCH |&nbsp;Kyiv attacked after Guterres and Zelensky meet ended

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/kyiv-attacked-after-guterres-and-zelensky-meet-ended-474893/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The Russian invasion of Ukraine has entered its third month and the constant attacks on Ukrainian cities continue with Russia looking to find a proper foothold in the country.

The Russian invasion of Ukraine has entered its third month and the constant attacks on Ukrainian cities continue with Russia looking to find a proper foothold in the country. The tensions are at an all-time high with Russia not backing down and more sanctions being announced by Europe. However, there can be a meeting between the head of the two warring nations in the near future as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has been invited to the G20 summit to be held in Bali in November this year by the Indonesian prime minister Joko Widodo as the leader of the host nation. Also read | EU is redrawing bloc's energy map to overcome its reliance on Russia “I have invited President Zelenskyy to attend the G20 summit,” PM Widodo said in his address. Russia is an important member of the G20 and president Vladmir Putin has confirmed that he will be attending the summit. Widodo said that he received a phone call from Putin confirming his participation but it remains to be seen whether he attends in person or virtually. According to an AFP report, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said that Russia is preparing for this year’s G20 summit but he did not comment on whether Putin will be visiting Indonesia. Also read | End of regulatory crackdown? China to hold symposium with Big Tech firms Zelensky thanked Widodo for the invitation and appreciated his support for "sovereignty and territorial integrity, in particular for a clear position in the" United Nations" with respect to Ukraine. The invitation extended to Zelensky is a special one on behalf of the head of the host nation as Ukraine is currently not a part of the G20. WATCH | Kyiv attacked after Guterres and Zelensky meet ended

Vladimir Putin and Volodymyr Zelensky accept invitation to attend G20 summit 2022 in Indonesia

Three tigers have been found dead in Western Indonesia. Local conservationists have alerted the police. Watch this report to know more.

3 tigers found dead in Western Indonesia, local conservationists alert police

Jeffrey Craigen, a Canadian actor and self-proclaimed wellness guru is facing deportation from Bali, Indonesia for dancing naked at a sacred mountain.&nbsp; 
 
Craigen recently posted a video of himself doing the Haka- ceremonial dance in New Zealand's Maori culture - nude on top of Mount Batur, a volcano considered holy by many Balinese. The video went viral in no time and Craigen now will be deported.&nbsp; 
 
He was detained and questioned on Monday following a deluge of complaints from social media users accusing him of disrespecting Balinese religious values. 
 
Craigen is currently awaiting deportation but authorities say airlines are reluctant to help because he is not vaccinated against COVID-19. 
 
"Airlines have not agreed (to transport him)," the head of Denpasar immigration office Tedy Riyandi told AFP Tuesday. 
 
He is also going to be blacklisted from entering Bali in future, the officials revealed. 
 
Craigen has been in Indonesia since late 2019 as a tourist and to study alternative treatments for osteoporosis, the head of Bali's immigration revealed.&nbsp; 
 
During interrogation Craigen reportedly stated that he was not aware that the mountain was considered a holy site.&nbsp; 
 
"To all foreigners who visit Bali, please act accordingly by respecting our law and Balinese cultural values," the official stated.&nbsp; 
 
(With agency inputs)

 
&nbsp;

Jeffrey Craigen, a Canadian actor and self-proclaimed wellness guru is facing deportation from Bali, Indonesia for dancing naked at a sacred mountain. Craigen recently posted a video of himself doing the Haka- ceremonial dance in New Zealand's Maori culture - nude on top of Mount Batur, a volcano considered holy by many Balinese.

Jeffrey Craigen, a Canadian actor and self-proclaimed wellness guru is facing deportation from Bali, Indonesia for dancing naked at a sacred mountain. Craigen recently posted a video of himself doing the Haka- ceremonial dance in New Zealand's Maori culture - nude on top of Mount Batur, a volcano considered holy by many Balinese. The video went viral in no time and Craigen now will be deported. He was detained and questioned on Monday following a deluge of complaints from social media users accusing him of disrespecting Balinese religious values. Craigen is currently awaiting deportation but authorities say airlines are reluctant to help because he is not vaccinated against COVID-19. "Airlines have not agreed (to transport him)," the head of Denpasar immigration office Tedy Riyandi told AFP Tuesday. He is also going to be blacklisted from entering Bali in future, the officials revealed. Craigen has been in Indonesia since late 2019 as a tourist and to study alternative treatments for osteoporosis, the head of Bali's immigration revealed. During interrogation Craigen reportedly stated that he was not aware that the mountain was considered a holy site. "To all foreigners who visit Bali, please act accordingly by respecting our law and Balinese cultural values," the official stated. (With agency inputs)

Canadian actor Jeffrey Craigen to be deported from Bali after dancing naked at a sacred site

From Unilever to Nestle: Here's how much palm oil companies use as Indonesia imposes a ban on it

Amid an alarming decline in their population, three critically endangered Sumatran tigers were found dead in western Indonesia on Sunday (April 24).&nbsp;

The Indonesian police informed that they were being ensnared by the traps. The accident is said to be a deadly blow to the species' rapidly declining population.&nbsp;

News agency AFP quoted conservation officials as saying that two of the dead tigers were first found by local conservationists in Aceh before police were alerted.&nbsp;

Referring to a police statement, the report mentioned that the authorities found the two intact tiger carcasses next to each other. Their feet were ensnared by steel slings at a palm oil plantation in the East Aceh district.&nbsp;

The third dead tiger was about 500 metres away from where the other two tigers were discovered. It was also ensnared by a sling.&nbsp;

The local police chief Hendra Sukmana said in a statement: "Our initial suspicion is that the tigers died after being caught by a boar trap, because when we found them their feet were ensnared by thick steel sling."&nbsp;

AFP reports also noted that the officials will conduct autopsies to determine the causes of the tigers' deaths. "We strongly condemn this incident... if the tests reveal there's intentional action that caused the deaths of these protected species, we will take strict action," the head of Aceh conservation agency Agus Arianto told AFP on Monday.&nbsp;

Sumatran tigers are considered critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, with fewer than 400 believed to remain in the wild.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Amid an alarming decline in their population, three critically endangered Sumatran tigers were found dead in western Indonesia on Sunday (April 24). The Indonesian police informed that they were being ensnared by the traps.

Amid an alarming decline in their population, three critically endangered Sumatran tigers were found dead in western Indonesia on Sunday (April 24). The Indonesian police informed that they were being ensnared by the traps. The accident is said to be a deadly blow to the species' rapidly declining population. News agency AFP quoted conservation officials as saying that two of the dead tigers were first found by local conservationists in Aceh before police were alerted. Referring to a police statement, the report mentioned that the authorities found the two intact tiger carcasses next to each other. Their feet were ensnared by steel slings at a palm oil plantation in the East Aceh district. The third dead tiger was about 500 metres away from where the other two tigers were discovered. It was also ensnared by a sling. The local police chief Hendra Sukmana said in a statement: "Our initial suspicion is that the tigers died after being caught by a boar trap, because when we found them their feet were ensnared by thick steel sling." AFP reports also noted that the officials will conduct autopsies to determine the causes of the tigers' deaths. "We strongly condemn this incident... if the tests reveal there's intentional action that caused the deaths of these protected species, we will take strict action," the head of Aceh conservation agency Agus Arianto told AFP on Monday. Sumatran tigers are considered critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, with fewer than 400 believed to remain in the wild. ×

Tragic! Three critically endangered Sumatran tigers killed in Indonesia

In what is said to be an economic fall out of the Russia-Ukraine war, World's top oil producer Indonesia banned palm oil exports.

Economic fall out of Russia-Ukraine war: Indonesia bans palm oil exports

Indonesia, the current President of G20, has appointed 27-year-old popstar Maudy Ayunda as the country's G20 spokesperson. Ayunda has no experience in diplomacy. What explains her appointment?

Gravitas: Indonesia appoints popstar as G20 spokesperson

Almost&nbsp;all residents of&nbsp;Indonesia's&nbsp;most&nbsp;populous&nbsp;island&nbsp;of Java&nbsp;have&nbsp;antibodies&nbsp;against&nbsp;COVID-19, owing to a combination of prior infection and vaccination against the virus, a government-commissioned survey showed.

The March&nbsp;study&nbsp;of 2,100 people, conducted on Java, home to 150 million people, and Bali,&nbsp;Indonesia's&nbsp;top tourism destination, revealed 99.2 per cent&nbsp;of people had covid&nbsp;antibodies, a 6 per cent&nbsp;point increase from a December survey.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-vignettes-covid-cases-are-soaring-in-china-so-is-its-inflation-471872">Chinese vignettes | Covid cases are soaring in China, so is its inflation</a>

Pandu Riono, an epidemiologist at the University of Indonesia, which conducted the survey with the health ministry, on Monday told Reuters the antibody levels in the latest survey were higher due to a wider booster shot rollout, as recipients had stronger protection.

Indonesia's&nbsp;daily case numbers&nbsp;have&nbsp;decreased significantly since a spike in February driven by the Omicron variant. About 60 per cent&nbsp;of its 270 million people&nbsp;have&nbsp;been vaccinated against covid.

Watch |&nbsp;Shanghai reports first covid deaths since start of covid-19 lockdown

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/shanghai-reports-first-covid-deaths-since-start-of-covid-19-lockdown-471768/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Pandu said the stronger&nbsp;antibodies&nbsp;may explain the faster rate at which Omicron variant infections declined in Indonesia.

The December&nbsp;study, of 22,000 people, was conducted nationwide and showed 86 per cent&nbsp;of Indonesians had&nbsp;antibodies.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-economic-data-hints-at-cost-of-zero-covid-strategy-471860">China's economic data hints at cost of zero Covid strategy</a>

The world's largest Muslim-majority nation has recently loosened many of its pandemic restrictions, including waiving quarantine for foreign tourists and lifting a two-year ban on the mass exodus tradition during the Muslim holiday season of Eid al-Fitr.

Health minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin on Monday said the survey was a factor in the government's assessment that the holiday "can go smoothly without bringing negative impacts on our people".

The&nbsp;study&nbsp;closely tracks recent data in Britain, where the percentage of adults with&nbsp;COVID&nbsp;antibodies&nbsp;in the middle of March was nearly&nbsp;99 per cent, according to its Office for National Statistics.

Almost all residents of Indonesia's most populous island of Java have antibodies against COVID-19, owing to a combination of prior infection and vaccination against the virus, a government-commissioned survey showed.

Almost all residents of Indonesia's most populous island of Java have antibodies against COVID-19, owing to a combination of prior infection and vaccination against the virus, a government-commissioned survey showed. The March study of 2,100 people, conducted on Java, home to 150 million people, and Bali, Indonesia's top tourism destination, revealed 99.2 per cent of people had covid antibodies, a 6 per cent point increase from a December survey. Also read | Chinese vignettes | Covid cases are soaring in China, so is its inflation Pandu Riono, an epidemiologist at the University of Indonesia, which conducted the survey with the health ministry, on Monday told Reuters the antibody levels in the latest survey were higher due to a wider booster shot rollout, as recipients had stronger protection. Indonesia's daily case numbers have decreased significantly since a spike in February driven by the Omicron variant. About 60 per cent of its 270 million people have been vaccinated against covid. Watch | Shanghai reports first covid deaths since start of covid-19 lockdown Pandu said the stronger antibodies may explain the faster rate at which Omicron variant infections declined in Indonesia. The December study, of 22,000 people, was conducted nationwide and showed 86 per cent of Indonesians had antibodies. Also read | China's economic data hints at cost of zero Covid strategy The world's largest Muslim-majority nation has recently loosened many of its pandemic restrictions, including waiving quarantine for foreign tourists and lifting a two-year ban on the mass exodus tradition during the Muslim holiday season of Eid al-Fitr. Health minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin on Monday said the survey was a factor in the government's assessment that the holiday "can go smoothly without bringing negative impacts on our people". The study closely tracks recent data in Britain, where the percentage of adults with COVID antibodies in the middle of March was nearly 99 per cent, according to its Office for National Statistics.

Study shows 99% on Indonesia's most populous island have COVID-19 antibodies

indonesia

Indonesia, News on Indonesia, stories on Indonesia, articles on Indonesia, Indonesia stories at Wion, Indonesia news, Indonesia latest news