Hundreds of children in a kindergarten waited for measles shots on Monday as Indonesian authorities rolled out a mass vaccination campaign in East Java province. 


Indonesia launches mass measles vaccination in east Java after deadly outbreak

Pacu Jalur is a centuries-old traditional boat race originating from the Minangkabau people in West Sumatra, Indonesia. Held annually along the Indragiri River, particularly in Teluk Kuantan, the event is more than a race. It's a vibrant cultural celebration rooted in Eastern Minangkabau heritage. 


Indonesia's famous 'Pacu Jalur' boat race in full swing 

People in an Indonesian village watched as a tower of loudspeakers mounted on a truck rumbled through their usually serene home, blasting a thumping bass loud enough to crack windows.Loudspeaker towers are commonplace on Indonesia's main island of Java, blaring a repetitive mix of electronic tunes and traditional folk music at street parties, but they have drawn the ire of local authorities and calm-seeking neighbours.The loudspeaker stacks have proven so disruptive that officials this month have restricted their use while religious bodies have declared excessive and damaging sound from them to be "haram", or forbidden under Islamic law."The sound is booming from 1 pm to 3 am. They play loud music and drink alcohol," Ahmad Suliyat, a resident of Ngantru village in East Java province, told AFP."It's really disturbing."Indonesians in East Java have shared videos on social media of cracked walls, falling roof tiles and damaged stores caused by the noise impact known as "sound horeg", which loosely means to move or vibrate in Javanese.The online backlash forced authorities in East Java to issue an order this month&nbsp;limiting noise levels and specifying the times and locations loudspeakers can be used."It was made for health and security reasons. The noise level must be regulated so it will not disturb the public peace and order," East Java governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa told AFP.<h2>Hearing problems</h2>Ear-splitting noise has been shown to have adverse health consequences, including a higher risk of heart conditions for those exposed.And Indonesia's loudspeaker towers, popular for little more than a decade in the world's most populous Muslim nation, have had dire consequences for some who attend the deafening street gatherings.A woman died this month after allegedly suffering cardiac arrest caused by loudspeaker towers at a carnival she attended, local media reported, while there has been an increase in hearing problems among those attending the events.The East Java government has capped sound system levels at 120 decibels, while mobile units used in parades or protests are limited to 85 decibels.Mobile units are also banned from being used near schools, hospitals, ambulances and places of worship that are in session.In July, a local Islamic council issued a religious edict that said excessive sound at parties that is capable of causing damage is forbidden by religion."The use of a sound system excessively, especially during a wedding convoy, or any other events that cause noise, disturb road users, or make people neglect worshipping, is haram," read the fatwa.Locals typically rent the speaker towers for weddings, circumcisions and Independence Day events -- all celebrations that can last until dawn.Some like Daini, who goes by one name like many Indonesians, believe the loudspeakers are a local tradition that should be kept.She glanced at her cracked window, held together by duct tape, as music blared from the truck in Ngantru."The glass cracked during a sound horeg event last year. But that's OK, people here like loud events," said the 61-year-old.<h2>Lax enforcement</h2>But loudspeakers have continued blasting above the new limits, due to lax enforcement by local authorities.After the rules were issued, an AFP journalist heard loudspeaker towers blaring music at an East Javan event as authorities watched on.The World Health Organisation says sound at 85 decibels and above can cause hearing damage over time, and anything above 120 decibels can cause immediate harm.Some Indonesians posted screenshots online of apps registering loudspeaker sound levels as high as 130 decibels.Operators of loudspeaker towers argue they are responding to demand that generates revenue for local businesses."I believe most people who dislike sound horeg are not from here," David Stevan Laksamana, a 40-year-old loudspeaker rental owner in Malang, told AFP."In Malang alone, it employed tens of thousands of people. This business is helping the economy."Others who cannot stand the disruptive street parties fear reporting them, with some loudspeaker tower owners reportedly parking outside complainants' houses to blare music for hours."I never complain to the village head," said Ahmad.“I just keep quiet. I'm afraid of intimidation if I say anything.”&nbsp;

East Java has restricted Indonesia’s booming “sound horeg” loudspeaker towers after complaints of cracked walls, hearing loss, and even a death. Officials capped noise at 120 decibels, while a local Islamic council declared excessive noise haram.

People in an Indonesian village watched as a tower of loudspeakers mounted on a truck rumbled through their usually serene home, blasting a thumping bass loud enough to crack windows. Loudspeaker towers are commonplace on Indonesia's main island of Java, blaring a repetitive mix of electronic tunes and traditional folk music at street parties, but they have drawn the ire of local authorities and calm-seeking neighbours. The loudspeaker stacks have proven so disruptive that officials this month have restricted their use while religious bodies have declared excessive and damaging sound from them to be "haram", or forbidden under Islamic law. "The sound is booming from 1 pm to 3 am. They play loud music and drink alcohol," Ahmad Suliyat, a resident of Ngantru village in East Java province, told AFP. "It's really disturbing." Indonesians in East Java have shared videos on social media of cracked walls, falling roof tiles and damaged stores caused by the noise impact known as "sound horeg", which loosely means to move or vibrate in Javanese. The online backlash forced authorities in East Java to issue an order this month limiting noise levels and specifying the times and locations loudspeakers can be used. "It was made for health and security reasons. The noise level must be regulated so it will not disturb the public peace and order," East Java governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa told AFP. Hearing problems Ear-splitting noise has been shown to have adverse health consequences, including a higher risk of heart conditions for those exposed. And Indonesia's loudspeaker towers, popular for little more than a decade in the world's most populous Muslim nation, have had dire consequences for some who attend the deafening street gatherings. A woman died this month after allegedly suffering cardiac arrest caused by loudspeaker towers at a carnival she attended, local media reported, while there has been an increase in hearing problems among those attending the events. The East Java government has capped sound system levels at 120 decibels, while mobile units used in parades or protests are limited to 85 decibels. Mobile units are also banned from being used near schools, hospitals, ambulances and places of worship that are in session. In July, a local Islamic council issued a religious edict that said excessive sound at parties that is capable of causing damage is forbidden by religion. "The use of a sound system excessively, especially during a wedding convoy, or any other events that cause noise, disturb road users, or make people neglect worshipping, is haram," read the fatwa. Locals typically rent the speaker towers for weddings, circumcisions and Independence Day events -- all celebrations that can last until dawn. Some like Daini, who goes by one name like many Indonesians, believe the loudspeakers are a local tradition that should be kept. She glanced at her cracked window, held together by duct tape, as music blared from the truck in Ngantru. "The glass cracked during a sound horeg event last year. But that's OK, people here like loud events," said the 61-year-old. Lax enforcement But loudspeakers have continued blasting above the new limits, due to lax enforcement by local authorities. After the rules were issued, an AFP journalist heard loudspeaker towers blaring music at an East Javan event as authorities watched on. The World Health Organisation says sound at 85 decibels and above can cause hearing damage over time, and anything above 120 decibels can cause immediate harm. Some Indonesians posted screenshots online of apps registering loudspeaker sound levels as high as 130 decibels. Operators of loudspeaker towers argue they are responding to demand that generates revenue for local businesses. "I believe most people who dislike sound horeg are not from here," David Stevan Laksamana, a 40-year-old loudspeaker rental owner in Malang, told AFP. "In Malang alone, it employed tens of thousands of people. This business is helping the economy." Others who cannot stand the disruptive street parties fear reporting them, with some loudspeaker tower owners reportedly parking outside complainants' houses to blare music for hours. "I never complain to the village head," said Ahmad. “I just keep quiet. I'm afraid of intimidation if I say anything.”

East Java has restricted Indonesia’s booming “sound horeg” loudspeaker towers after complaints of cracked walls, hearing loss, and even a death. Officials capped noise at 120 decibels, while a local Islamic council declared excessive noise haram.

‘Haram’ noise? Indonesia bans ear-splitting loudspeaker trucks blamed for cracked homes, heart attacks

Indonesia’s Independence Day, celebrated every August 17, marks the nation's historic 1945 declaration of freedom from centuries of colonial rule. Led by Sukarno and Mohammad Hatta, the proclamation followed Dutch and Japanese occupation. More than a holiday, it’s a powerful tribute to the courage, unity, and sacrifices that shaped modern Indonesia. Citizens across the country honor this day with parades, flag ceremonies, and patriotic pride.


Indonesian Independence day: National flag unfurled, acrobatics performed  

The world's oldest pyramid might not have been built by humans at all. In Gunung Padang, Indonesia, this pyramid was reportedly constructed as far back as 25,000 BC, when even agriculture didn't exist. Another expert pans this theory, saying no one built it, and it was a natural occurrence.

The world's oldest pyramid might not have been built by humans at all. In Gunung Padang, Indonesia, this pyramid was reportedly constructed as far back as 25,000 BC, when even agriculture didn't exist. Another expert pans this theory, saying no one built it, and it was a natural occurrence.

Is this the world's oldest pyramid? Experts argue humans could not have built it, because...

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (July 23) underscoring his trade-first agenda, said that Japan and Indonesia have, for the first time ever, agreed to fully open their markets to American goods—including automobiles, agriculture, and even the long-protected rice sector. The US President attributed the breakthrough to his aggressive tariff strategy, insisting that without the leverage of tariffs, such access would have been “impossible.”&nbsp;Posting on Truth Social platform, Trump wrote, “Remember, Japan is, for the first time ever, OPENING ITS MAKET TO THE USA, even to cars, SUV’s, Trucks, -and everything else, even agriculture and RICE, which was always a complete NO, NO. The Open Market Japan may be as big a profit factor as the Tariffs themselves, but was only gotten because of the Tariff Power. They also agreed to buy BILLIONS OF DOLLARS WORTH OF MILITARY AND OTHER EQUIPMENT, and give us 90% of 550 BILLION DOLLARS - AND MORE!!! MAGA!!!. Indonesia has also agreed, for the first time ever, to COMPLETELY OPEN ITS MARKET TO THE USA. That’s BIG!!! Our businesses will make a fortune. Likewise Japan!"

“I will always give up Tariff points if I can get major countries to OPEN THEIR MARKETS TO THE USA. Another great power of Tariffs. Without them, it would be impossible to get countries to OPEN UP!!! ALWAYS, ZERO TARIFFS TO AMERICA!!!. I WILL ONLY LOWER TARIFFS IF A COUNTRY AGREES TO OPEN ITS MARKET. IF NOT, MUCH HIGHER TARIFFS! Japan’s Markets are now OPEN (for first time ever!). USA BUSINESSES WILL BOOM!,” he further wrote.

On Tuesday (July 22), Trump wrote, “We just completed a massive Deal with Japan, perhaps the largest Deal ever made. Japan will invest, at my direction, $550 Billion Dollars into the United States, which will receive 90% of the Profits. This Deal will create Hundreds of Thousands of Jobs — There has never been anything like it. Perhaps most importantly, Japan will open their Country to Trade including Cars and Trucks, Rice and certain other Agricultural Products, and other things. Japan will pay Reciprocal Tariffs to the United States of 15%. This is a very exciting time for the United States of America, and especially for the fact that we will continue to always have a great relationship with the Country of Japan. Thank you for your attention to this matter!”

USA BUSINESSES WILL BOOM Trump tariffs push Japan Indonesia to open markets for US goods

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (July 23) underscoring his trade-first agenda, said that Japan and Indonesia have, for the first time ever, agreed to fully open their markets to American goods—including automobiles, agriculture, and even the long-protected rice sector. The US President attributed the breakthrough to his aggressive tariff strategy, insisting that without the leverage of tariffs, such access would have been “impossible.” Posting on Truth Social platform, Trump wrote, “Remember, Japan is, for the first time ever, OPENING ITS MAKET TO THE USA, even to cars, SUV’s, Trucks, -and everything else, even agriculture and RICE, which was always a complete NO, NO. The Open Market Japan may be as big a profit factor as the Tariffs themselves, but was only gotten because of the Tariff Power. They also agreed to buy BILLIONS OF DOLLARS WORTH OF MILITARY AND OTHER EQUIPMENT, and give us 90% of 550 BILLION DOLLARS - AND MORE!!! MAGA!!!. Indonesia has also agreed, for the first time ever, to COMPLETELY OPEN ITS MARKET TO THE USA. That’s BIG!!! Our businesses will make a fortune. Likewise Japan!"

Trump, writing on his Truth Social platform said that he will always give up tariff points if he can get major countries to open their markets to USA

'USA BUSINESSES WILL BOOM': Trump tariffs push Japan, Indonesia to open markets for US goods

A fire broke out on an Indonesian ferry carrying hundreds of people on Sunday (July 20), killing at least five people. According to the officials, more than 200 were rescued, as many people jumped overboard to flee the huge blaze. Indonesia’s Maritime Security Agency said that the KM Barcelona 5 ferry was engulfed in flames off the coast of Sulawesi island. This comes weeks after at least 19 people were killed after a ferry sank off the popular resort island of Bali.&nbsp;“Five people were reported dead, two of whom have yet to be identified. Meanwhile, 284 people have been evacuated safely,” the agency said in a statement.&nbsp;The passenger ferry was on its way to Manado, the capital of North Sulawesi province, when the fire broke out. According to the statement, some passengers jumped overboard with life jackets. Fishermen also helped evacuate the passengers to nearby islands. The injured were taken to the nearest health facility, it added.&nbsp;The incident happened when the ferry was about an hour away from the resort town of Likupang, in the northern tip of Sulawesi, Manado search and rescue agency head George Leo Mercy Randang told AFP.&nbsp;A video released by the Manado agency showed the ferry emitting black smoke as a Bakamla vessel sprayed water on it. “What is important is that we are prioritising rescue before nightfall,” George said. He did not confirm the total number of people aboard the ferry. The authorities did not say what was the cause of the incident. &nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">BREAKING: A fire broke out around 1:30 p.m. local time today on the KM Barcelona VA ferry off the coast of North Sulawesi, Indonesia. The vessel, carrying over 280 people from the Talaud Islands to Manado City, forced passengers to leap into the sea. No confirmed casualties… <a href="https://t.co/7zkSEk3ZMB">pic.twitter.com/7zkSEk3ZMB</a>&mdash; Volcaholic 🌋 (@volcaholic1) <a href="https://twitter.com/volcaholic1/status/1946889006215549379?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 20, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Earlier this month, a boat carrying 53 passengers and 12 crew members sank en route to tourist island of Bali from Banyuwangi on the eastern coast of Java island, killing at least six. Dozens others were also missing in the incident, which happened at the time of bad weather conditions.

The incident happened when the ferry was about an hour away from the resort town of Likupang, in the northern tip of Sulawesi

A fire broke out on an Indonesian ferry carrying hundreds of people on Sunday (July 20), killing at least five people. According to the officials, more than 200 were rescued, as many people jumped overboard to flee the huge blaze. Indonesia’s Maritime Security Agency said that the KM Barcelona 5 ferry was engulfed in flames off the coast of Sulawesi island. This comes weeks after at least 19 people were killed after a ferry sank off the popular resort island of Bali. “Five people were reported dead, two of whom have yet to be identified. Meanwhile, 284 people have been evacuated safely,” the agency said in a statement. The passenger ferry was on its way to Manado, the capital of North Sulawesi province, when the fire broke out. According to the statement, some passengers jumped overboard with life jackets. Fishermen also helped evacuate the passengers to nearby islands. The injured were taken to the nearest health facility, it added. The incident happened when the ferry was about an hour away from the resort town of Likupang, in the northern tip of Sulawesi, Manado search and rescue agency head George Leo Mercy Randang told AFP. A video released by the Manado agency showed the ferry emitting black smoke as a Bakamla vessel sprayed water on it. “What is important is that we are prioritising rescue before nightfall,” George said. He did not confirm the total number of people aboard the ferry. The authorities did not say what was the cause of the incident.

The incident happened when the ferry was about an hour away from the resort town of Likupang, in the northern tip of Sulawesi.

At least five killed after fire breaks out on Indonesian passenger ferry; 284 people evacuated safely

Indonesia on Wednesday (Jul 16) said that it had reached a trade deal with the United States following an “extraordinary struggle” in discussions. This comes after US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (Jul 15) said that a deal had been struck after talks with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto. The negotiations have resulted in reduced US tariff rates on exports from the Southeast Asian country from 32 per cent to 19 per cent. The deal is among the few to finalise so far with the Trump administration ahead of the August 1 deadline for negotiations.&nbsp;“This is an extraordinary struggle by our negotiating team led by the Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs,” Hasan Nasbi, the Indonesian president’s spokesperson, told reporters on Wednesday.&nbsp;He also said that Prabowo had negotiated directly with Trump during a phone conversation, without sharing further details.&nbsp;The Indonesian president later said that his government understood the interests of the US in trade negotiations. He added that the two nations will continue to negotiate even after reaching a deal, saying, “We’ve given our offer, we cannot give more.”&nbsp;In a post on social media, the President wrote that the two sides “agreed and concluded to take trade relations between Indonesia and the United States into a new era of mutual benefit between our two great nations.”&nbsp;Earlier in April, Trump had imposed a 32 per cent tariff on goods from Indonesia. He later paused the so-called “reciprocal” tariffs, giving countries a deadline of August 1 to negotiate a deal with the US.&nbsp;“Great deal, for everybody, just made with Indonesia. I dealt directly with their highly respected President,” Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform Tuesday (Jul 15) morning. “DETAILS TO FOLLOW!!!”&nbsp;The trade deal between the US and Indonesia marks the fourth agreement announced in three months. Earlier this month, Trump announced a deal had been made with Vietnam, without sharing further information.&nbsp;The US president said that India is “working along the same line” to secure a trade agreement with the United States.

The trade deal between the US and Indonesia marks the fourth agreement announced in three months. Earlier this month, Trump announced a deal had been made with Vietnam, without sharing further information.

Indonesia on Wednesday (Jul 16) said that it had reached a trade deal with the United States following an “extraordinary struggle” in discussions. This comes after US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (Jul 15) said that a deal had been struck after talks with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto. The negotiations have resulted in reduced US tariff rates on exports from the Southeast Asian country from 32 per cent to 19 per cent. The deal is among the few to finalise so far with the Trump administration ahead of the August 1 deadline for negotiations. “This is an extraordinary struggle by our negotiating team led by the Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs,” Hasan Nasbi, the Indonesian president’s spokesperson, told reporters on Wednesday. He also said that Prabowo had negotiated directly with Trump during a phone conversation, without sharing further details. The Indonesian president later said that his government understood the interests of the US in trade negotiations. He added that the two nations will continue to negotiate even after reaching a deal, saying, “We’ve given our offer, we cannot give more.” In a post on social media, the President wrote that the two sides “agreed and concluded to take trade relations between Indonesia and the United States into a new era of mutual benefit between our two great nations.” Earlier in April, Trump had imposed a 32 per cent tariff on goods from Indonesia. He later paused the so-called “reciprocal” tariffs, giving countries a deadline of August 1 to negotiate a deal with the US. “Great deal, for everybody, just made with Indonesia. I dealt directly with their highly respected President,” Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform Tuesday (Jul 15) morning. “DETAILS TO FOLLOW!!!” The trade deal between the US and Indonesia marks the fourth agreement announced in three months. Earlier this month, Trump announced a deal had been made with Vietnam, without sharing further information. The US president said that India is “working along the same line” to secure a trade agreement with the United States.

The trade deal between the US and Indonesia marks the fourth agreement announced in three months. Earlier this month, Trump announced a deal had been made with Vietnam, without sharing further information.

‘We cannot give more’: Indonesia says reaching trade deal with US was ‘extraordinary struggle’

At least 11 people are missing after a boat capsized off Indonesia's western island of Sumatra, officials said Tuesday (Jul 15). According to a statement by the Mentawai search and rescue agency, the vessel was carrying 18 people when it overturned around 11:00 am local time on Monday (Jul 14) near the Mentawai Islands—a remote chain of islands off Sumatra’s west coast. Seven people have been rescued. Search and rescue teams are continuing efforts to locate the remaining passengers, said the agency's chief.<h2>Rescue operation underway</h2>Rudi, Mentawai search and rescue agency chief, who, like many Indonesians, goes by one name, in a statement said that their focus was on "combing the area around the estimated accident site to find all victims". The cause of the accident has not been confirmed; however, as per AFP, maritime incidents are a frequent occurrence in Indonesia, in part due to lax safety regulations, poor maintenance, and rough weather conditions.Authorities have yet to release the identities of those missing in Monday’s capsize or confirm whether foreign nationals were among the passengers. Rescue operations are ongoing.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-gets-one-step-closer-to-killing-us-education-department-supreme-court-okays-mass-layoffs-1752541678949">Trump gets one step closer to KILLING Education Department: US Supreme Court okays mass layoffs</a><h2>A pattern of disasters?</h2>The latest tragedy comes just days after a ferry sank off the coast of Bali on July 3, killing at least 18 people. Before that, in March, another boat capsized in rough seas near Bali, resulting in the death of an Australian tourist and injuring at least one other. Indonesia, an archipelago of over 17,000 islands, relies heavily on sea transport, but its safety record is among the worst globally.In one of the country's deadliest maritime disasters, more than 150 people drowned in 2018 when an overloaded ferry sank in Lake Toba, one of the world's deepest volcanic lakes, also located on Sumatra island.&nbsp;

According to a statement by the Mentawai search and rescue agency, the vessel was carrying 18 people when it overturned around 11:00 am local time on Monday (Jul 14) near the Mentawai Islands—a remote chain of islands off Sumatra’s west coast. 

At least 11 people are missing after a boat capsized off Indonesia's western island of Sumatra, officials said Tuesday (Jul 15). According to a statement by the Mentawai search and rescue agency, the vessel was carrying 18 people when it overturned around 11:00 am local time on Monday (Jul 14) near the Mentawai Islands—a remote chain of islands off Sumatra’s west coast. Seven people have been rescued. Search and rescue teams are continuing efforts to locate the remaining passengers, said the agency's chief. Rescue operation underway Rudi, Mentawai search and rescue agency chief, who, like many Indonesians, goes by one name, in a statement said that their focus was on "combing the area around the estimated accident site to find all victims". The cause of the accident has not been confirmed; however, as per AFP, maritime incidents are a frequent occurrence in Indonesia, in part due to lax safety regulations, poor maintenance, and rough weather conditions. Authorities have yet to release the identities of those missing in Monday’s capsize or confirm whether foreign nationals were among the passengers. Rescue operations are ongoing. Also read | Trump gets one step closer to KILLING Education Department: US Supreme Court okays mass layoffs A pattern of disasters? The latest tragedy comes just days after a ferry sank off the coast of Bali on July 3, killing at least 18 people. Before that, in March, another boat capsized in rough seas near Bali, resulting in the death of an Australian tourist and injuring at least one other. Indonesia, an archipelago of over 17,000 islands, relies heavily on sea transport, but its safety record is among the worst globally. In one of the country's deadliest maritime disasters, more than 150 people drowned in 2018 when an overloaded ferry sank in Lake Toba, one of the world's deepest volcanic lakes, also located on Sumatra island.

According to a statement by the Mentawai search and rescue agency, the vessel was carrying 18 people when it overturned around 11:00 am local time on Monday (Jul 14) near the Mentawai Islands—a remote chain of islands off Sumatra’s west coast.&nbsp;

At least 11 missing after boat capsizes off Indonesia's Sumatra island, search underway

Indonesians Gather At World's Largest Buddhist Temple To Celebrate Lord Buddha's Birthday

Indonesians gather at world's largest Buddhist temple to celebrate lord Buddha's birthday

A regional governor in Indonesia has come under fire for suggesting that men who want to gain access to the government's welfare schemes should get a vasectomy. Experts are slamming West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi for trying to coerce poor men to get a procedure that they say violates Islamic teachings and punishing people for being poor.
Dedi recently pointed out that poor people have more children but are unable to fulfil their needs. He suggested that poor men should undergo sterilisation if they want access to the government&rsquo;s social welfare programme, also known as bansos.
In a speech on April 28, Dedi said, "I don&rsquo;t know why poor families generally have many children, while rich people have difficulty having children, even after paying two billion rupiah (US$121,000) for IVF."&nbsp;
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/harbinger-of-covid-virus-had-already-travelled-over-2700kms-before-it-was-detected-in-wuhan-9046691" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Harbinger of Covid virus had already travelled over 2,700kms before it was detected in Wuhan</a>
Recalling the time he saw a couple with 11 children, Dedi said that some of the kids were selling cakes on the streets. &ldquo;Stop having children if you can&rsquo;t provide for them well,&rdquo; he said.
He stated that funds used to subsidise hospital births for women with little means should instead be redirected towards building "simple&nbsp;houses".
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/sun-will-one-day-kill-all-life-on-earth-year-everything-will-end-predicted-9044300" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">1,000,002,021: Scientists think THIS is the year all life will vanish from Earth</a>
He then went on to say that poor families who want to benefit from government schemes for new electricity connections, food, scholarships or public housing should get a vasectomy. Men who go ahead with it will be given 500,000 rupiah (US$30) each.
<h2>Vasectomy suggestion slammed by experts and religious leaders</h2>
His statement quickly invited backlash from prominent quarters, including Cholil Nafis, head of the Indonesian Ulema Council, &nbsp;the country&rsquo;s top Islamic scholars&rsquo; body. Islamic figures stated that sterilisation is against their religion.
&ldquo;Islam forbids permanent sterilisation. What is permitted is regulating birth spacing. Our population growth is stable and even tends to be negative," Cholil wrote on social media.
"Poverty can be stopped by increasing employment opportunities, not stopping poor people from being born,&rdquo; he added.
Others said it unfairly targets the poor and, in a was,y punishes them for not having money.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, Social Minister Saifullah Yusuf said this is not the solution to poverty. Social media users seemed to have a divided opinion, as some of them backed the idea while others gave it a thumbs down.
A user wrote, &ldquo;Birth control as a population control tool, specifically for the poor, is eugenics and fascist to the extreme."

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi also wants to send unruly kids to military school. His vasectomy suggestion has been met with criticism. World Trending

A regional governor in Indonesia has come under fire for suggesting that men who want to gain access to the government's welfare schemes should get a vasectomy. Experts are slamming West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi for trying to coerce poor men to get a procedure that they say violates Islamic teachings and punishing people for being poor. Dedi recently pointed out that poor people have more children but are unable to fulfil their needs. He suggested that poor men should undergo sterilisation if they want access to the government’s social welfare programme, also known as bansos. In a speech on April 28, Dedi said, "I don’t know why poor families generally have many children, while rich people have difficulty having children, even after paying two billion rupiah (US$121,000) for IVF." Also Read: Harbinger of Covid virus had already travelled over 2,700kms before it was detected in Wuhan Recalling the time he saw a couple with 11 children, Dedi said that some of the kids were selling cakes on the streets. “Stop having children if you can’t provide for them well,” he said. He stated that funds used to subsidise hospital births for women with little means should instead be redirected towards building "simple houses". Also Read: 1,000,002,021: Scientists think THIS is the year all life will vanish from Earth He then went on to say that poor families who want to benefit from government schemes for new electricity connections, food, scholarships or public housing should get a vasectomy. Men who go ahead with it will be given 500,000 rupiah (US$30) each. Vasectomy suggestion slammed by experts and religious leaders His statement quickly invited backlash from prominent quarters, including Cholil Nafis, head of the Indonesian Ulema Council, the country’s top Islamic scholars’ body. Islamic figures stated that sterilisation is against their religion. “Islam forbids permanent sterilisation. What is permitted is regulating birth spacing. Our population growth is stable and even tends to be negative," Cholil wrote on social media. "Poverty can be stopped by increasing employment opportunities, not stopping poor people from being born,” he added. Others said it unfairly targets the poor and, in a was,y punishes them for not having money. Meanwhile, Social Minister Saifullah Yusuf said this is not the solution to poverty. Social media users seemed to have a divided opinion, as some of them backed the idea while others gave it a thumbs down. A user wrote, “Birth control as a population control tool, specifically for the poor, is eugenics and fascist to the extreme."

Vasectomy in exchange for benefits: Indonesian governor's absurd suggestion

Indonesia’s most active volcano, Mount Marapi, has erupted, sending a massive ash column 1.5 km into the sky. Authorities have rated the eruption at Level 2 severity, warning residents of widespread ashfall.

Indonesia’s active volcano Mount Marapi erupts, spewing ash 1.5km into sky

Indonesia’s Mount Marapi erupts, spewing ash 1.5km into sky

As Eid Al-Fitr, also known as "Lebaran" in Indonesia, approaches, millions are on the move for homecoming celebrations. Ports, roads, and highways are packed with travelers, many on motorbikes, making their way back to their hometowns. Watch how the country gears up for one of its biggest festivals.

Millions travel across Indonesia for Eid Al-Fitr celebrations

Hundreds of Hindus in Bali flocked to beaches on Indonesia's tourist island to participate in the sacred Melasti purification ritual. Watch in for more details!

Hindus gather on Indonesia's beaches for sacred ceremony

The staff of a weekly magazine in Indonesia known for its investigative news is feeling uneasy and alarmed after a box containing six rats, with their heads decapitated, was thrown in front of its headquarters in Jakarta.&nbsp; Three days earlier, the severed head of a pig was sent to a political journalist with the magazine, Tempo, who is also the co-host of its political podcast &lsquo;Bocor Alus&rsquo;, says a South China Morning Post report. The inherent message was palpable: the six decapitated rats being the six hosts of the publication&rsquo;s podcast, while pigs and rats &ldquo;are two animals that often symbolise rottenness and evil&rdquo;. Since its establishment in 1971, Tempo was banned twice by dictator Suharto in 1982 and 1994 for being critical of the regime. It resumed publication in 1998 after Suharto&rsquo;s ouster. The threats have sparked concerns over press freedoms and many believe such intimidation tactics could push journalists toward self-censorship.
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/who-is-jeffrey-goldberg-the-journalist-accidentally-sent-classified-yemen-war-plan-8887509" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Who is Jeffrey Goldberg? The journalist accidentally sent classified Yemen war plan</a> Tempo, one of Indonesia&rsquo;s esteemed investigative news outlets, held a news briefing in which its editor-in-chief Setri Yasra said that the personal data of its political journalist Francisca Christy Rosana and her family was also published online. &ldquo;An anonymous account on Instagram made threats openly [against Rosana], with harsh language. We don&rsquo;t know the person because the account is anonymous,&rdquo; he said. The weekly described the incidents as acts of &ldquo;terror&rdquo;. &ldquo;Our office has been hit with Molotov cocktails, attacked by a group of people, and stormed by a mob offended by a caricature, but this is the first time a terrorist has used a piece of an animal carcass to scare. In addition to being cowardly, this is immoral because it creates fear by killing living creatures,&rdquo; Tempo said in an editorial, adding that it remained undeterred. The alleged intimidation was met by a wave of support for Tempo, including by the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), which called it &ldquo;a dangerous and deliberate act&rdquo;.
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/mike-waltz-in-hot-water-journalist-reveals-trumps-national-advisor-follows-gay-porn-account-waltz-leaked-yemen-war-plans-8887613" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Mike Waltz in hot water: Journalist reveals Trump's National Advisor follows gay porn account</a> &ldquo;Tempo is well-known internationally for its fiercely independent reporting; using this playbook from autocrats elsewhere simply will not work. President Prabowo Subianto must uphold press freedom and condemn this highly provocative act if he wants Indonesia to be taken seriously as the world&rsquo;s third-largest democracy,&rdquo; said Beh Lih Yi, CPJ&rsquo;s Asia programme coordinator.
According to the Alliance of Independence Journalists, or AJI, intimidation and violence against journalists in Indonesia remained rampant in recent years, although the number of such reported cases fell to 73 last year, from 101 in 2023.
&ldquo;We see a tendency for people to no longer worry about being arrested for intimidating journalists, as well as for doxxing them. They can do that because impunity in Indonesia for violence against journalists is high,&rdquo; Nany Afrida, chairwoman at AJI Indonesia, told This Week in Asia.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/woke-up-half-naked-former-hostage-shares-harrowing-account-of-sexual-assault-by-hamas-militants-in-gaza-8890272">'Woke up half-naked': Former hostage shares harrowing account of sexual assault by Hamas militants in Gaza</a> Nany cited examples of extreme violence against Indonesian journalists, including the killing of Rico Sempurna Pasaribu and his three family members in a house fire in Medan last year. Rico had reported on a local gambling ring that was allegedly backed by military personnel. In October, the headquarters of Jubi, a Papua-based news outlet, was pelted with Molotov bombs, and the case remained unresolved despite the incident being caught in security footage.
Meanwhile, the rights groups in Indonesia also fear that a new military law could curb press freedom in Indonesia over a clause stating that the military could be deployed to &ldquo;assist in efforts to combat cyber threats.&rdquo;

World: Rights groups in Indonesia also fear that a new military law could curb press freedom in Indonesia over a clause stating that the military could be deployed to “assist in efforts to combat cyber threats.”

The staff of a weekly magazine in Indonesia known for its investigative news is feeling uneasy and alarmed after a box containing six rats, with their heads decapitated, was thrown in front of its headquarters in Jakarta. Three days earlier, the severed head of a pig was sent to a political journalist with the magazine, Tempo, who is also the co-host of its political podcast ‘Bocor Alus’, says a South China Morning Post report. The inherent message was palpable: the six decapitated rats being the six hosts of the publication’s podcast, while pigs and rats “are two animals that often symbolise rottenness and evil”. Since its establishment in 1971, Tempo was banned twice by dictator Suharto in 1982 and 1994 for being critical of the regime. It resumed publication in 1998 after Suharto’s ouster. The threats have sparked concerns over press freedoms and many believe such intimidation tactics could push journalists toward self-censorship. Also read: Who is Jeffrey Goldberg? The journalist accidentally sent classified Yemen war plan Tempo, one of Indonesia’s esteemed investigative news outlets, held a news briefing in which its editor-in-chief Setri Yasra said that the personal data of its political journalist Francisca Christy Rosana and her family was also published online. “An anonymous account on Instagram made threats openly [against Rosana], with harsh language. We don’t know the person because the account is anonymous,” he said. The weekly described the incidents as acts of “terror”. “Our office has been hit with Molotov cocktails, attacked by a group of people, and stormed by a mob offended by a caricature, but this is the first time a terrorist has used a piece of an animal carcass to scare. In addition to being cowardly, this is immoral because it creates fear by killing living creatures,” Tempo said in an editorial, adding that it remained undeterred. The alleged intimidation was met by a wave of support for Tempo, including by the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), which called it “a dangerous and deliberate act”. Also read: Mike Waltz in hot water: Journalist reveals Trump's National Advisor follows gay porn account “Tempo is well-known internationally for its fiercely independent reporting; using this playbook from autocrats elsewhere simply will not work. President Prabowo Subianto must uphold press freedom and condemn this highly provocative act if he wants Indonesia to be taken seriously as the world’s third-largest democracy,” said Beh Lih Yi, CPJ’s Asia programme coordinator. According to the Alliance of Independence Journalists, or AJI, intimidation and violence against journalists in Indonesia remained rampant in recent years, although the number of such reported cases fell to 73 last year, from 101 in 2023. “We see a tendency for people to no longer worry about being arrested for intimidating journalists, as well as for doxxing them. They can do that because impunity in Indonesia for violence against journalists is high,” Nany Afrida, chairwoman at AJI Indonesia, told This Week in Asia. Also read | 'Woke up half-naked': Former hostage shares harrowing account of sexual assault by Hamas militants in Gaza Nany cited examples of extreme violence against Indonesian journalists, including the killing of Rico Sempurna Pasaribu and his three family members in a house fire in Medan last year. Rico had reported on a local gambling ring that was allegedly backed by military personnel. In October, the headquarters of Jubi, a Papua-based news outlet, was pelted with Molotov bombs, and the case remained unresolved despite the incident being caught in security footage. Meanwhile, the rights groups in Indonesia also fear that a new military law could curb press freedom in Indonesia over a clause stating that the military could be deployed to “assist in efforts to combat cyber threats.”

Decapitated rats, pig head sent to magazine journalists in Indonesia. Is the press being terrorised?

Mass protests have erupted across Indonesia as students and activists, dressed in black, clash with police over a controversial amendment to the military law. At least 25 demonstrators have been detained as tensions rise.

Indonesia student & activist protesters clash with police, at least 25 detained

Violent clashes in Indonesia as protesters oppose military law

Budget carrier SpiceJet is facing fresh insolvency proceedings, this time from Indonesia’s PT BBN Airlines over unpaid lease rentals totalling $5.94 million. Watch this report for more details!

Indonesia’s BBN airlines files insolvency plea against budget airline

In mid-March, Marina Budiman, President Commissioner of DCI Indonesia, saw her fortune soar to an impressive $7.5 billion. Over the span of three weeks, she became $350 million richer each day as her company’s shares repeatedly hit the daily limit. However, this rapid rise was short-lived. In just three days, DCI’s stock crashed, wiping out half of their combined fortunes. Watch in for more details!

Indonesia's richest woman loses $3.6 bn in 3 days

Indonesian social media influencer Ratu Thalisa has been under the spotlight after she suggested in one of her videos that Jesus should cut his hair.&nbsp;
After the incident, Thalisa was sentenced to two years and 10 months in prison on the charges of blasphemy.&nbsp;
She was sentenced by a court in North Sumatra province over her comments made on an image of Jesus Christ.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-police-shoot-dead-blasphemy-suspect-in-sindh-in-second-such-killing-in-a-week-760452">Pakistan police shoot dead blasphemy suspect in Sindh in second such killing in a week</a>
<h2>Who is Ratu Thalisa?</h2>
Ratu Thalisa, a Muslim transgender woman, has nearly 450,000 followers on TikTok. She is online known as Ratu Entok.&nbsp;
She made the remarks on Jesus after a viewer said that she should cut her hair to look like a man.&nbsp;
In a live broadcast on October 2, 2024, Thalisa held up a picture of Jesus Christ and said, &ldquo;You should not look like a woman. You should cut your hair so that you will look like his father.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/blasphemy-and-insult-paris-olympics-draws-backlash-for-last-supper-drag-performance-744681">'Blasphemy and Insult': Paris Olympics draws backlash for 'Last Supper' drag performance</a>
Following this, five Christian groups filed complaints to Indonesian police alleging blasphemy, leading to Thalisa's arrest on October 8.&nbsp;
Moreover, the court ordered Thalisa to pay a fine of around $6,200.
The court further said that her remarks disrupted "public order" and "religious harmony", according to a report by Amnesty International Indonesia.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/theyre-mocking-our-lord-cynthia-erivo-to-play-jesus-in-a-musical-netizens-slams-8740202">&lsquo;They&rsquo;re mocking our lord!&rsquo; Cynthia Erivo to play Jesus in a musical, netizens slam</a>
However, her sentence has been condemned by human rights groups, including Amnesty International, as they described it as a shocking attack on Ratu Thalisa's freedom of expression" and called for it to be quashed.
"The Indonesian authorities should not use the country's Electronic Information and Transactions (EIT) law to punish people for comments made on social media," Amnesty International Indonesia's Executive Director Usman Hamid said in a statement.
"While Indonesia should prohibit the advocacy of religious hatred that constitutes incitement to discrimination, hostility or violence, Ratu Thalisa's speech act does not reach that threshold."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-create-faith-office-to-end-anti-christian-bias-in-america-8698493">Trump to create faith office to end 'anti-Christian bias' in America</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World, trending | The court said that her remarks disrupted "public order" and "religious harmony", according to a report by Amnesty International Indonesia.

Indonesian social media influencer Ratu Thalisa has been under the spotlight after she suggested in one of her videos that Jesus should cut his hair. After the incident, Thalisa was sentenced to two years and 10 months in prison on the charges of blasphemy. She was sentenced by a court in North Sumatra province over her comments made on an image of Jesus Christ. Also read: Pakistan police shoot dead blasphemy suspect in Sindh in second such killing in a week Who is Ratu Thalisa? Ratu Thalisa, a Muslim transgender woman, has nearly 450,000 followers on TikTok. She is online known as Ratu Entok. She made the remarks on Jesus after a viewer said that she should cut her hair to look like a man. In a live broadcast on October 2, 2024, Thalisa held up a picture of Jesus Christ and said, “You should not look like a woman. You should cut your hair so that you will look like his father.” Also read: 'Blasphemy and Insult': Paris Olympics draws backlash for 'Last Supper' drag performance Following this, five Christian groups filed complaints to Indonesian police alleging blasphemy, leading to Thalisa's arrest on October 8. Moreover, the court ordered Thalisa to pay a fine of around $6,200. The court further said that her remarks disrupted "public order" and "religious harmony", according to a report by Amnesty International Indonesia. Also read: ‘They’re mocking our lord!’ Cynthia Erivo to play Jesus in a musical, netizens slam However, her sentence has been condemned by human rights groups, including Amnesty International, as they described it as a shocking attack on Ratu Thalisa's freedom of expression" and called for it to be quashed. "The Indonesian authorities should not use the country's Electronic Information and Transactions (EIT) law to punish people for comments made on social media," Amnesty International Indonesia's Executive Director Usman Hamid said in a statement. "While Indonesia should prohibit the advocacy of religious hatred that constitutes incitement to discrimination, hostility or violence, Ratu Thalisa's speech act does not reach that threshold." Also read: Trump to create faith office to end 'anti-Christian bias' in America (With inputs from agencies)

Meet Ratu Thalisa, trans TikToker jailed for ‘telling’ Jesus to get a haircut

Sritex, once Southeast Asia’s textile powerhouse, has shut down, reportedly leaving more than 10,000 Indonesians without jobs. The industrial giant once supplied military uniforms to NATO and the German army.

Indonesia’s Textile Giant Falls: Over 10,000 Workers Left Jobless

A boat carrying more than 100 Rohingya refugees has landed on a beach in Indonesia, highlighting the continuing refugee crisis as many flee persecution and seek asylum in Southeast Asia.

Over 100 Rohingya refugees arrive on Indonesian beach amid ongoing crisis

At least 75 Rohingya refugees were not allowed to disembark on a tourist beach in Western Indonesia. The refugees had arrived by boat at a tourist beach. Watch this report for more details!

At least 75 Rohingya refugees sail to Indonesia

PM Modi and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto held a joint press meet at Hyderabad House in New Delhi. Both leaders emphasized strengthening bilateral ties and deepening strategic cooperation. Watch in for more details!

PM Modi calls Indonesia a key partner in ASEAN and Indo-Pacific

India, Indonesia boost defence ties: Trade, technology, and supply chains take centre stage in talks

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has garnered an impressive 81% approval rating, reflecting widespread public support for his leadership and policies.

Indonesian President Subianto gets 81% approval rating by citizens

A special exhibition at Indonesia's National Museum marks the return of precious jewels and statues looted by Dutch colonists, highlighting a significant moment in the country’s cultural history.

Indonesia's National Museum hosts exhibit celebrating return of looted jewels and statues

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto arrived in India. Subianto is in Delhi primarily to grace the 76th Republic Day celebrations as the chief guest.

Republic Day 2025: Indonesian President Subianto to attend India's Republic Day on 26 Jan

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has arrived in India to take part in the country's Republic Day celebrations, strengthening the diplomatic ties between the two nations.

Republic Day 2025: Indonesian President Subianto arrives in India for R-Day celebrations

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto arrives in India to attend Republic Day Celebrations

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