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Climate scientists issue a sobering diagnosis about Earth's 'vital signs'
“The climate emergency is already here”
Indonesia’s top Muslim council opposes upcoming Andrea Bocelli concerts over Israel ties
Indonesia’s top Muslim clerical body has opposed upcoming concerts by Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli at Borobudur Temple and Jakarta | Talk 1370
Indonesia’s top Muslim council opposes upcoming Andrea Bocelli concerts over Israel ties
Indonesia’s top Muslim clerical body has opposed upcoming concerts by Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli at Borobudur Temple and Jakarta | WWL
Indonesia’s sweeping new halal rules spark business backlash
World’s largest majority-Muslim country to force companies to explain how products from clothes to toilet paper are permissible under Islam
VT Markets Partners with Island Sports Club to Set the Gold Standard in Fitness and Trading
Global multi-asset broker VT Markets has announced a year-long partnership as the Official Partner of Island Sports Club, a premier sports and lifestyle network with locations in Canggu and Uluwatu, Bali, Indonesia.
Suffocating spin: Malaysians mock Indonesian official’s haze defence
Some social media users question whether they are breathing imported air and ask how it would be sold.
Haze not ‘a threat’ to Singapore F1 race, but entertainment could be curbed
Transboundary haze from Indonesian fires has pushed city state’s air quality to unhealthy levels, but track activity will not be affected.
Combining science and community knowledge could shape coral reef conservation in Indonesia
Coral reefs in Indonesia's Spermonde Archipelago are under pressure from both natural and anthropogenic activities. Researchers from Hasanuddin University assessed reef conditions across three islands ...
How combining science and community knowledge could shape coral reef conservation in Indonesia
Coral reefs in Indonesia’s Spermonde Archipelago are under pressure from both natural and anthropogenic activities. Researchers from Hasanuddin University assessed reef conditions across three islands using underwater photography and drone surveys, while also gathering local perspectives on reef conditions and restoration. They found greater live coral cover in clearer waters but limited community readiness to participate in conservation efforts, suggesting that training and institutional support could strengthen local communities’ role in protecting these natural treasures.
Indonesia's candidate for WHO chief calls on US to rejoin agency
Indonesia's pick to lead the World Health Organization, its health minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin, told Reuters that the United States should rejoin the agency after its exit at the start of this year.
Countries race to provide oral health care for all in 100-Day Sprint across Asia
Twenty Asian countries and areas across the WHO Western Pacific and South-East Asia regions vowed to strengthen essential oral health benefits as part of a “100-Day Sprint” initiative, during the 16th Asian Chief Dental Officers Meeting held from 27 to 29 September in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia. The meeting marked the midpoint of the 100-day sprint bolstering support for countries to develop essential oral health benefit packages that can be integrated into national universal health coverage plans. Convened by the two WHO regional offices and the Malaysian Ministry of Health as the Secretariat, the meeting brought together national oral health leaders from 20 Asian countries, staff from all levels of WHO, WHO collaborating centres and other development partners. Participating countries and areas included: Bangladesh, Bhutan, Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, China, Hong Kong (SAR) China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Malaysia, Maldives, Mongolia, Nepal, the Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Timor-Leste and Viet Nam. Participants reviewed progress and refined proposals using the WHO Service Package Delivery and Implementation (SPDI) Platform. Countries conducted bottleneck analyses across four key areas: service delivery, workforce, access to essential medicines and health products, and health financing. They identified practical actions to address implementation challenges and refined proposed revisions to their national oral health benefit packages. “There is no health without oral health. Through the 100-Day Sprint, countries are advancing the implementation of the Western Pacific regional implementation plan on oral health and strengthening progress towards universal health coverage,” noted WHO Regional Director for the Western Pacific Dr Saia Ma'u Piukala. Participants identified bottlenecks and proposed workable solutions to strengthen access to essential oral health care through primary health care, sharing experiences and discussing how best to translate policy commitments into feasible and sustainable action at the country level. Malaysian Minister of Health Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad highlighted the importance of prevention and primary health-care approaches to improve oral health: “Oral diseases can have lifelong consequences, yet many are preventable. By integrating essential oral health care into primary health care and promoting prevention in schools and communities, we can improve oral health across the life course.”The WHO team led by Dr Huong Tran, Director of the Division of Health Promotion, Disease Prevention and Control of the WHO Western Pacific Region and national oral health leads from over 20 Asian countries visited the SK Pekan Putatan School, Sabah for school oral health programme including flouride mouth rinsing. © WHO / V. ChaudharyDr Huong Tran, Director of the Division of Health Promotion, Disease Prevention and Control for the WHO Western Pacific Region, emphasized key collaborative roles WHO can play. “Oral diseases are the most common noncommunicable diseases, yet many can be prevented and treated through essential oral health services delivered at the primary health-care level,” she said. “By sharing experiences and using WHO tools such as the SPDI Platform, countries are accelerating progress towards universal health coverage for oral health.” “Integrating oral health into broader health services is essential for reducing inequities, expanding access and recognizing oral health as an integral component of overall health and well-being. The 100-Day Sprint provides an important opportunity to translate this commitment into practical action and ensure that quality oral health services reach all people, especially those most in need,” said Dr Suman Rijal, Director of the WHO South-East Asia regional Department of Healthier Populations and Noncommunicable Diseases. As host of the meeting, Malaysia showcased ongoing efforts to strengthen oral health care through primary health care and prevention-focused approaches, while providing a platform for countries across the two WHO regions to exchange experiences and accelerate progress towards universal health coverage for oral health. “WHO is encouraged by Malaysia's leadership in addressing the burden of oral diseases and advancing universal health coverage for oral health through practical, country-led action,” said Dr Rabi Abeyasinghe, WHO Representative to Malaysia, Brunei Darussalam and Singapore. Countries will continue to refine and figure costs for national oral health benefits during the remaining sessions of the 100 days. These efforts support implementation of the WHO Global strategy and action plan on oral health 2023–2030, while also helping to expand access to essential oral health services through stronger and more equitable health systems across the WHO Western Pacific and South-East Asia regions.______________For more information, or to arrange media interviews, contact: WHO Regional Office for the Western Pacific: wprocom@who.int WHO Regional Office for South-East Asia: SEMediaRelations@who.int
Rightlessness after reform? Agrarian conflict and the politics of land in Indonesia
A review of Berenschot et al 2026
Indonesia and China to strengthen science and education cooperation
Indonesia and China plan to expand cooperation in higher education and science to advance innovation and technology adoption.
Japan’s Nippon To Buy Akzo’s Southeast Asia Decorative Paints Business For $1.35 Billion
The deal gives Nippon Paint—controlled by the family of late Singaporean billionaire Goh Cheng Liang—access to Akzo’s operations across Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, Papua New Guinea and Australia.
Countries race to provide oral health care for all in 100-Day Sprint across Asia
Twenty Asian countries and areas across the WHO Western Pacific and South-East Asia regions vowed to strengthen essential oral health benefits as part of a “100-Day Sprint” initiative, during the 16th Asian Chief Dental Officers Meeting held from 27 to 29 September in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia. The meeting marked the midpoint of the 100-day sprint bolstering support for countries to develop essential oral health benefit packages that can be integrated into national universal health coverage plans. Convened by the two WHO regional offices and the Malaysian Ministry of Health as the Secretariat, the meeting brought together national oral health leaders from 20 Asian countries, staff from all levels of WHO, WHO collaborating centres and other development partners. Participating countries and areas included: Bangladesh, Bhutan, Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, China, Hong Kong (SAR) China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Malaysia, Maldives, Mongolia, Nepal, the Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Timor-Leste and Viet Nam. Participants reviewed progress and refined proposals using the WHO Service Package Delivery and Implementation (SPDI) Platform. Countries conducted bottleneck analyses across four key areas: service delivery, workforce, access to essential medicines and health products, and health financing. They identified practical actions to address implementation challenges and refined proposed revisions to their national oral health benefit packages. “There is no health without oral health. Through the 100-Day Sprint, countries are advancing the implementation of the Western Pacific regional implementation plan on oral health and strengthening progress towards universal health coverage,” noted WHO Regional Director for the Western Pacific Dr Saia Ma'u Piukala. Participants identified bottlenecks and proposed workable solutions to strengthen access to essential oral health care through primary health care, sharing experiences and discussing how best to translate policy commitments into feasible and sustainable action at the country level. Malaysian Minister of Health Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad highlighted the importance of prevention and primary health-care approaches to improve oral health: “Oral diseases can have lifelong consequences, yet many are preventable. By integrating essential oral health care into primary health care and promoting prevention in schools and communities, we can improve oral health across the life course.”The WHO team led by Dr Huong Tran, Director of the Division of Health Promotion, Disease Prevention and Control of the WHO Western Pacific Region and national oral health leads from over 20 Asian countries visited the SK Pekan Putatan School, Sabah for school oral health programme including flouride mouth rinsing. © WHO / V. ChaudharyDr Huong Tran, Director of the Division of Health Promotion, Disease Prevention and Control for the WHO Western Pacific Region, emphasized key collaborative roles WHO can play. “Oral diseases are the most common noncommunicable diseases, yet many can be prevented and treated through essential oral health services delivered at the primary health-care level,” she said. “By sharing experiences and using WHO tools such as the SPDI Platform, countries are accelerating progress towards universal health coverage for oral health.” “Integrating oral health into broader health services is essential for reducing inequities, expanding access and recognizing oral health as an integral component of overall health and well-being. The 100-Day Sprint provides an important opportunity to translate this commitment into practical action and ensure that quality oral health services reach all people, especially those most in need,” said Dr Suman Rijal, Director of the WHO South-East Asia regional Department of Healthier Populations and Noncommunicable Diseases. As host of the meeting, Malaysia showcased ongoing efforts to strengthen oral health care through primary health care and prevention-focused approaches, while providing a platform for countries across the two WHO regions to exchange experiences and accelerate progress towards universal health coverage for oral health. “WHO is encouraged by Malaysia's leadership in addressing the burden of oral diseases and advancing universal health coverage for oral health through practical, country-led action,” said Dr Rabi Abeyasinghe, WHO Representative to Malaysia, Brunei Darussalam and Singapore. Countries will continue to refine and figure costs for national oral health benefits during the remaining sessions of the 100 days. These efforts support implementation of the WHO Global strategy and action plan on oral health 2023–2030, while also helping to expand access to essential oral health services through stronger and more equitable health systems across the WHO Western Pacific and South-East Asia regions.______________For more information, or to arrange media interviews, contact: WHO Regional Office for the Western Pacific: wprocom@who.int WHO Regional Office for South-East Asia: SEMediaRelations@who.int
Eckerd College professors blend policy and marine science in unique study abroad trip to Indonesia
News | Eckerd College
Indonesia to inject $1.1 billion into health insurer BPJS Kesehatan
Indonesia's government will inject 20 trillion rupiah ($1.11 billion) into health insurer BPJS Kesehatan to help the state agency cover its deficit in 2026, according to a government statement.
Indonesia to inject $1.1 billion into health insurer BPJS Kesehatan
JAKARTA, Sept 29 () - Indonesia's government will inject 20 trillion rupiah ($1.11 billion) into health insurer BPJS Kesehatan to help the state agency cover its deficit in 2026, according to a government statement.
WHO recognizes healthy, innovative cities across the Western Pacific Region
Nine Healthy City champions from across the World Health Organization (WHO) Western Pacific Region received special recognition at an awarding ceremony during the 11th Global Conference of the Alliance for Healthy Cities in Sydney, Australia.The WHO Regional Office for the Western Pacific has presented the Healthy Cities Recognition Awards every two years since 2004 to celebrate innovative and impactful city-led initiatives that improve the health and well-being of urban populations.Eight cities received awards for their best practices, and one National Forum received the WHO Regional Director’s Special Award in recognition of its long-standing leadership in advancing the Healthy Cities movement.Awardees were selected through a rigorous evaluation process and recognized for demonstrating measurable, innovative and sustainable approaches to health challenges faced by cities.Remarking on the significance of the awards, Dr Huong Tran, Director of the Division of Health Promotion, Disease Prevention and Control at the Regional Office, said that, “There is no single blueprint for a healthy city. What works in one context may need to be adapted to another. But by sharing our experiences, including what worked, what was challenging, and what we learnt along the way, we can help one another move faster and further.”Award-winning cities and initiativesThis year's awards recognize outstanding city-led initiatives that have demonstrated measurable impact, innovation and sustainability in advancing health initiatives for urban populations.Baguio City (Philippines) – Data for equity: informing action, improving healthDr Donnabel Tubera-Panes, City Epidemiologist – Medical Officer IV of the Health Services Office accepted the award on behalf of Baguio City. Photo credit: Maria BoyadgisBaguio City was recognized for developing a pioneering Livability Index that provides village-level data across all 128 barangays (villages), enabling evidence-based planning and more equitable allocation of resources. By integrating community participation and institutionalizing the index within city planning and budgeting processes, the city has demonstrated how data can drive action to reduce health and social inequities.Eunpyeong-gu (Seoul, Republic of Korea) – Communities living in vulnerable situations: advancing health equity through community engagementVice Mayor Honourable Ahn Hyoung Jun accepted the award on behalf of Eunpyeong-gu. Photo credit: Maria BoyadgisEunpyeong-gu was recognized for its inclusive health equity programme supporting vulnerable populations, including isolated older adults and LGBTQI+ communities. Through peer-led community networks, social cooperatives and inclusive service design, the district has strengthened access to care, promoted social inclusion and advanced community ownership of health initiatives.Madiun City (Indonesia) – Adapting and mitigating climate-related crises: building heat resilience and preventing flood-related health risksMs Yuni Dwi Purwani, Secretary General of the National Forum for Indonesian Healthy Cities/Regencies, accepted the award on behalf of Madiun City. Photo credit: Maria BoyadgisMadiun City was recognized for its SUPERMIE (Sustainable Public Environmental Management Initiative) – a community-based environmental governance model that addresses urban flooding, climate resilience and environmental sustainability. The initiative contributed to reductions in flood-prone areas, greenhouse gas emissions, diarrhoeal disease and dengue fever, while at the same time improving food security through neighbourhood food gardens. The programme has already been replicated in 15 cities and regencies across Indonesia.Macao Special Administrative Region (China) – Protecting communities from tobacco and alcohol-related harms: tackling commercial drivers of riskDr LO Iek Long, Director of the Health Bureau, Macao SAR, China accepted the award on behalf of Macao. Photo credit: Maria BoyadgisMacao SAR was recognized for implementing a comprehensive and integrated approach to tobacco and alcohol control. Through legislation, monitoring systems, enforcement, public awareness campaigns and multisectoral partnerships, the programme has strengthened protection against major risk factors for noncommunicable diseases and established a model that is highly transferable to other urban settings.Phnom Penh Capital City (Cambodia) – Safe, active and health-enabling transport: advancing health and reducing inequities in urban mobilityH.E. Khoung Sreng, Governor of Phnom Penh Capital City accepted the award on behalf of Phnom Penh Capital City. Photo credit: Maria BoyadgisPhnom Penh received the award for its Safe School Zone Project, which combines infrastructure improvements, speed management, enforcement, education and stakeholder engagement to protect children and communities. The initiative has demonstrated measurable reductions in crashes and vehicle speeds while providing a scalable model for safer urban mobility across the country.Quezon City (Philippines) – Transforming food environments: addressing policy, market and urban design drivers of health and nutritionMs Jirah Asa M. Sideco, Chief of the Nutrition Section of the Quezon City Health Department accepted the award on behalf of Quezon City. Photo credit: Maria BoyadgisQuezon City was recognized for its public food procurement policy that promotes healthier diets through government-run institutions and feeding programmes. Supported by strong policy frameworks and monitoring systems, the initiative improves access to nutritious food for vulnerable populations while serving as a benchmark for other local governments.Samarinda City (Indonesia) – Preventing violence and promoting gender equality: transforming urban systems, norms and spaces Mrs Rinda Wahyuni, Chairperson of Samarinda Healthy City Forum accepted the award on behalf of Samarinda City. Photo credit: Maria BoyadgisSamarinda City was recognized for its multisectoral approach to preventing violence and advancing gender equality. Responding to local evidence on violence against women and children, the city has positioned violence prevention as a public health priority, bringing together health services, schools, social welfare institutions, law enforcement, civil society and community leaders to strengthen prevention, reporting, survivor-centred support and legal protection. Through inclusive policies, community engagement and sustainable city financing, Samarinda has developed a locally owned and scalable model for creating safer, more equitable and inclusive urban communities.Singapore – Age-friendly cities: transforming systems to bridge generations for a healthier tomorrowDr Tan Weng Mooi, Director, Integrated Health Promotion, accepted the award on behalf of Singapore. Photo credit: Maria BoyadgisSingapore received recognition for its Healthy Precinct Framework, which translates national healthy ageing priorities into neighbourhood-level action. The initiative integrates preventive care, social support, service coordination and age-friendly environments while actively engaging older persons, caregivers and community organizations. Its expansion across multiple precincts demonstrates its scalability and long-term sustainability.WHO Regional Director’s Special AwardNational Forum for Indonesian Healthy Cities/Regencies (Indonesia)Ms Yuni Dwi Purwani, Secretary General of the National Forum for Indonesian Healthy Cities/Regencies, accepted the award on behalf of the National Forum. Photo credit: Maria BoyadgisThe WHO Regional Director's Special Award was presented to the National Forum for Indonesian Healthy Cities/Regencies (FKKSI) in recognition of its long-standing leadership in advancing the Healthy Cities movement across Indonesia. As a national platform bringing together local governments, communities, academia and civil society, FKKSI has played a critical role in promoting collaboration, capacity-building, knowledge exchange and advocacy. Its efforts have strengthened and institutionalized healthy urban development nationwide and established a model for multisectoral engagement in the Region. Healthy Cities for allThe 2026 Healthy Cities Recognition Awards highlight how cities can lead transformative action on health by addressing climate change, inequity, ageing, nutrition, mobility, social inclusion, violence prevention and the commercial determinants of health. The recognized initiatives demonstrate that local governments, communities and partners can work together to create healthier, safer and more resilient urban environments for everyone. As urban populations continue to grow across the Western Pacific Region, WHO remains committed to supporting cities in advancing health, equity and sustainable development through the Healthy Cities approach and the Alliance for Healthy Cities. ###Note to editorsSince 2004, the WHO Healthy Cities Recognition Awards have provided a platform for cities to share innovative and effective approaches to improving health and well-being. The awards recognize achievements in areas including climate resilience, healthy ageing, health equity, gender equality, tobacco and alcohol control, urban mobility, nutrition and data-driven governance. In 2026, more than 150 submissions were received from cities and local governments across the Western Pacific Region. The titles and affiliations of awardees are presented as they were at the time the photo was taken.______________For more information, or to arrange media interviews, contact: WHO Regional Office for the Western Pacific: wprocom@who.int
Worsening El Nino threatens Asia with severe drought, potentially threatening global food security
El Nino already is depleting water supplies, hurting fish catches and jeopardizing Asia's globally important agriculture industry.
Breathing through the haze: Indonesia confronts a wildfire health crisis
A 'super-El Niño' driving up temperatures and punishing droughts is fanning Indonesia's most intense wildfires in over a decade.
Japan’s biomass energy boom threatens further deforestation in Indonesia
Expanding deforestation in Indonesia caused by the country’s wood pellet and chip industry is putting further pressure on tropical forests, Key Biodiversity Areas, and Indigenous territories in the archipelago, according
HRH Crown Princess Victoria visits locally-led solutions for health, resilience and nature during UNDP visit to Indonesia
UNDP Goodwill Ambassador, Her Royal Highness Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden, visited Indonesia from 4–6 September to see first-hand how locally led solutions are strengthening health systems, building resilience, creating economic opportunity and protecting nature.
Children’s health at risk in south Borneo as El Niño intensifies Indonesia wildfires
BANJARMASIN, Indonesia — Siti Sarah slept in fits and starts through August as the fires broke out around her village and surrounding peatlands. One fire on Aug. 18 at first seemed a safe distance away, but in a heartbeat the flames were within 100 meters (330 feet) of her home in Pengayuan, a village in […]
Indonesian wildfires cause respiratory infections to double in a week, health ministry says
This year’s wildfire season is the most intense in 11 years as “super-El Niño” weather conditions drive up temperatures and cause punishing droughts.
Indonesian wildfires cause respiratory infections to double in a week, health ministry says
Respiratory infections caused by hazardous wildfire pollution in Indonesia have more than doubled in just over a week, data from the country's health ministry showed on Thursday.
Scientists Discover the Earliest Evidence of Drug Use in Really Old Teeth
A hunter-gatherer who lived in Indonesia as early as 25,000 years ago may have regularly sucked on betel nuts to release their psychoactive properties.
Indonesian foragers may have sucked on mind-altering nuts 25,000 years ago, research finds
Analysis of two skeletons reveals tooth wear and traces of psychoactive substance in what may be earliest known evidence for human drug taking
Anak Krakatau Rumbles Again
A powerful eruption from the Indonesian volcano lofted ash into the atmosphere, disrupting thousands of flights and degrading air quality.
HERA Director-General visits Indonesia to strengthen health cooperation
The Director-General of the European Commission’s Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Authority (HERA), Dr Florika Fink-Hooijer, met with Indonesia's Minister of Health, H.E. Budi Gunadi Sadikin, in Jakarta on 4 September 2026. Discussions centred on Indonesia's expansion of surveillance capacities, including genomic sequencing as well as local manufacturing capacity. There was a clear commitment to work together on wastewater surveillance going forward. Earlier that day, Director-General Fink-Hooijer, met with the Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr Kao Kim Hourn, at the ASEAN Secretariat to discuss health emergency preparedness and response to emerging health threats, and to explore deeper cooperation between the EU and ASEAN. More info on the meeting at the ASEAN Secretariat: https://link.europa.eu/HdVV7q
Monitoring One Health action against antimicrobial resistance in Indonesia
Ministry of Health, with support from WHO and partners, convened a national multisectoral validation meeting for Indonesia’s 2026 TrACSS submission. Representatives from human health, animal health, fisheries, food and agriculture, environment, research institutions and development partners reviewed the country’s progress on AMR, and validated evidence supporting survey responses prior to submission. In the meeting, WHO presented Indonesia’s 2025 TrACSS results and facilitated technical sessions on the 2026 survey structure, rating principles and submission process.
Peatland Fires Darken Skies in Indonesia
With Indonesia gripped by drought, fires are smoldering on the surface and underground.
DRX, Nuon Sign Indonesia-Korea Gaming and Entertainment Deal
Korea's DRX and Nuon Digital Indonesia sign a strategic partnership covering live entertainment, game publishing and talent development.
Korea’s DRX Signs Strategic Partnership With Indonesia’s Nuon to Expand Gaming and Entertainment Ties (EXCLUSIVE)
Korea’s DRX Corp. and PT Nuon Digital Indonesia signed a strategic partnership in Jakarta to expand gaming and entertainment ties between Indonesia and Korea, starting with an entertainment festival c...
Fire haze threatens health of millions in Indonesia, ministry warns
Millions of Indonesians risk health complications from exposure to thick haze covering several cities and towns, officials said Wednesday, as El Nino-fuelled wildfires wreak havoc on Borneo and Sumatr...
Indonesian Health Minister Budi Sadikin Becomes Fourth Candidate To Run For WHO Director-General
Indonesia has officially nominated its Health Minister, Budi Gunadi Sadikin, for the WHO Director-General election - in what is also an unconventional
Indonesian Health Minister Budi Sadikin Becomes Fourth Candidate To Run For WHO Director-General
Indonesia has officially nominated its Health Minister, Budi Gunadi Sadikin, for the WHO Director-General election - in what is also an unconventional
Art and science must come together for coral reef conservation, biologists argue
Art and science can work together to raise public awareness and propel conservation efforts needed to safeguard coral reef ecosystems, a group of coral scientists argues in a new research article published in Science Advances. Coral reefs are among Earth’s most threatened ecosystems amid climate change, coral bleaching and threats from mining. However, most people […]
Businesses reopen after eastern Indonesia earthquake displaced thousands
REO, Indonesia (AP) — Grocery stores, gas stations and other shops reopened Wednesday, four days after a powerful earthquake killed at least 70 people, injured nearly 1,200 others and damaged thousands of homes.
Asia-Pacific parliamentarians urge bolder action for universal health coverage, climate resilience and responsible AI
Parliamentarians representing 16 countries from across the Asia-Pacific region concluded the Ninth Meeting of the Asia-Pacific Parliamentarian Forum on Global Health (APPFGH) today, reaffirming their key role in advancing universal health coverage (UHC) amid the risks and opportunities posed by AI and climate change. In adopting the Phnom Penh Communiqué, parliamentarians urged fellow legislators regionwide to strengthen sustainable financing for UHC to widen access to health for all, including the most vulnerable populations; promote responsible governance of AI amid ethical concerns over this fast-evolving technology; and build climate-resilient health systems to anticipate and respond to mounting pressures ranging from rising sea levels in coastal areas to air pollution and other environmental degradation.The National Assembly of Cambodia, with support from Cambodia’s Ministry of Health and the World Health Organization (WHO), hosted the Forum in Phnom Penh from 11 to 13 August 2026 – the first time the Forum has convened in a Mekong country.Parliamentarians urge action to close gaps in accessIn the Communiqué, parliamentarians recognized that at-risk and marginalized groups are the ones most severely affected by gaps in access to health services. These groups include people living in poverty, women and children, persons with disabilities, older people, migrants, refugees, and those in rural, remote or island communities. The Communiqué urges fellow parliamentarians and policy-makers to advocate for laws and policies that support sustainable financing to protect people from financial hardship, with a focus on primary health care, prevention and equity. "The Communiqué is a call to action. It sets out ambitious, concrete measures that deliver meaningful impact on the ground. We are all accountable for advancing universal health coverage and translating our commitments into tangible results. Cambodia is fully committed to advancing UHC, including the promotion of ‘healthy people, prosperous country’ campaign,” said Samdech Maha Rathsapheathika Thipadei Khuon Sudary, President of the National Assembly of the Kingdom of Cambodia.His Excellency Professor Chheang Ra, Minister of Health of the Kingdom of Cambodia, highlighted the need for collaboration beyond the health sector. “Universal health coverage cannot be achieved by the Ministry of Health alone. It requires support, particularly from parliamentarians, across political, legislative, financial, social protection, education, infrastructure, and environmental domains. While each country follows its own path, one factor is universally critical for success: strong governance and leadership. We all believe in this principle, and in our respective political roles, we remain committed to strengthening these key success factors to ensure that no one is left behind.”Promoting responsible AI adoption Parliamentarians acknowledged that, while AI has already demonstrated its ability to improve access to health services and support delivery, careful and ethical governance is necessary to safeguard quality, safety, privacy and public trust. This underscores the importance of parliamentarians in promoting legal and regulatory frameworks addressing liability, records ownership and data governance, while embracing innovation that protects ethical practice.“Without strong governance, safeguards for privacy and data security, sustainable financing, and attention to those most at risk of exclusion, new technologies may widen existing gaps instead of closing them. This is why parliamentarians matter. We pass laws. We approve budgets. We scrutinize government action. We represent communities. We can ask whether health services are reaching rural, remote, ageing, poor, and marginalized populations. We can ask whether innovation is being guided by equity, evidence, and ethics,” said Hon. Man Hee Lee, President of the Asia-Pacific Parliamentarian Forum on Global Health.Building climate-resilient health systemsParliamentarians also reiterated that the climate crisis is a direct threat to people’s health and to achieving UHC more broadly, deepening the same gaps in access already faced by at-risk and marginalized communities. They recognized the need for WHO Member States to ensure sufficient national appropriations and oversight, and for parliamentarians to raise awareness in their constituencies and mobilize local action in building climate-resilient and sustainable health systems.“Universal health coverage, climate change and AI cannot be addressed in isolation. The same communities struggling to access health services today are often the ones most exposed to climate shocks, and most in need of the opportunities AI can offer if this technology is governed responsibly,” said Dr Saia Ma’u Piukala, WHO Regional Director for the Western Pacific. “Having served previously in this Forum myself as a parliamentarian from Tonga, I recognize how the Phnom Penh Communiqué reflects the shared resolve of legislators across the Asia-Pacific region: the laws parliamentarians pass and the budgets they approve help ensure this progress reaches the people who need it most.”As the Forum drew to a close, delegates reflected on what they would carry back to their own parliaments and constituencies.“I wish to share three points here worth carrying home from Phnom Penh: we need to invest in primary health care as the foundation of coverage; we need to remove the barriers that keep people from care, whether financial, geographic or social; and we need to build systems that are inclusive by design, protecting those most at risk of being left behind,” added Hon. Ouch Borith, First Vice-President of the Senate of the Kingdom of Cambodia.###Notes for editors:The Asia-Pacific Parliamentarian Forum on Global Health (APPFGH) is a platform for parliamentarians to exchange ideas, build political will, strengthen capacity and foster collaboration towards sustainable health action. This was the ninth meeting of the APPFGH, with the theme “Universal Health Coverage in the era of Climate Change and Artificial Intelligence”. Target 3.8 of the Sustainable Development Goals calls on countries to achieve universal health coverage, including financial risk protection, access to quality essential health services, and access to safe, effective, quality and affordable essential medicines and vaccines for all. In the Western Pacific, UHC service coverage index (SDG 3.8.1) rose from 63 in 2000 to 81 in 2023 (figures include Indonesia), and roughly one in four people in the Western Pacific have experienced financial hardship (SDG 3.8.2). Progress towards UHC in the Asia-Pacific region remains uneven, with hundreds of millions of people still lacking access to essential health services or facing financial hardship due to health-related expenses. Strengthening the role of parliaments – through legislation, financing and oversight – is central to closing this gap and accelerating progress towards UHC across the region.Parliamentarians participating in APPFGH in Cambodia this week include: Hon. Pehin Dato Adanan YUSOF, Brunei Darussalam; Hon. Rosmawatty ABDUL MUMIN, Brunei Darussalam; Hon. LORK Kheng, Kingdom of Cambodia; Hon. YOS Phanita, Kingdom of Cambodia; Hon. KHOUN Khundy, Kingdom of Cambodia; Hon. HENG Halim, Kingdom of Cambodia; Hon. KHOENG Noupheap, Kingdom of Cambodia; Hon. SENG Nhak, Kingdom of Cambodia; Hon. LY Sukry, Kingdom of Cambodia; Hon. NHOEURN Raden, Kingdom of Cambodia; Hon. Dr Ratu Atonio LALABALAVU, Republic of Fiji; Hon. Vijay NATH, Republic of Fiji; Hon. Man Hee LEE, Republic of Korea; Hon. Dr Jiho CHA, Republic of Korea; Hon. Jonghun BAEK, Republic of Korea; Hon. Youngsuk SEO, Republic of Korea; Hon. Dr Phayvanh KEOPASEUTH, Lao People’s Democratic Republic; Hon. Suhaizan Bin KAIAT, Malaysia; Hon. Dr Perpetua KONMAN, Federated States of Micronesia; Hon. Ganmaa DAVAASAMBUU, Mongolia; Hon. Charmaine SCOTTY, Republic of Naoero; Hon. Vincent Ambance KUMURA, Papua New Guinea; Hon. Dr Edwin CRUZADO, Republic of the Philippines; Hon. AUUAPAAU Mulipola Aloitafua Mulipola, Samoa; Hon. ASIATA TAVUI Tafu Salevao, Samoa; Hon. Dr Alani Petelo TANGITAU, Tonga; Hon. Paul PAOLO, Republic of Vanuatu; Hon. Franklyn Ezra WILLIAM, Republic of Vanuatu.For more information, contact: WHO Regional Office for the Western Pacific: wprocom@who.int National Assembly of the Kingdom of Cambodia (International Relations Department): ir.nacambodia@gmail.com
Strengthening Indonesia’s health emergency response through after action review of disaster response in Aceh, North Sumatra and West Sumatra
Severe floods and landslides that struck Aceh, North Sumatra and West Sumatra in late 2025 exposed both the strengths and gaps in Indonesia’s health emergency response, prompting a nation-wide effort to strengthen preparedness for future crises. In the early phase, the scale and speed of the crisis challenged coordination, data systems and surge capacity. To assess the response, the World Health Organization (WHO) Indonesia supported the Ministry of Health’s Center for Health Crisis in conducting a multi-stakeholder after-action review (AAR). The review brought together government agencies, health sub-clusters, NGOs, and partners. “The AAR is a critical process for strengthening our collective response capacity,” said Agus Jamaludin, Head of the Center for Health Crisis at the Ministry of Health. “It provides valuable lessons not only for the Health Crisis Center but also for all stakeholders involved and serves as an important reference for improving future responses across regions.” After Action Review (AAR) brought together key stakeholders to reflect on the emergency response, identify lessons learned, and strengthen preparedness for future health crises. (WHO/Resty Armis)Through structured discussions across four pillars – leadership and governance, information-based decision-making, service delivery and resource management – the AAR identified several strengths. These included the rapid mobilization of national surge capacity, such as health reserve workforce (tenaga cadangan kesehatan) and emergency medical teams (EMT) and the continued provision of essential health services in affected areas. At the same time, the review highlighted challenges. Among them were uneven functionality of Health Emergency Operation Center (HEOC), fragmented early data reporting and reactive logistics deployment. The findings informed five strategic priorities for strengthening the system, including HEOC standardization, integration of the One Crisis Data system, establishing disaster-resilient hospitals and reforming surge capacity mechanisms. The AAR demonstrates that Indonesia’s health emergency response has strong foundations but requires system-level strengthening to shift from reactive to proactive preparedness. By mainstreaming the strengths and recommendations identified, Indonesia can build a faster, more coordinated and more resilient health system – better equipped to protect communities during future crises. Written by Lintang Sibarani, NPO Emergency and Humanitarian Actions, WHO Indonesia
Inside a meme factory: meet one of thousands of Indonesians trading political outrage clicks for Facebook cash
Exclusive: Adira says she doesn’t know much about her target countries or even know who their leaders are. Instead she’s chasing money from Meta, which pays for engagement
The creatures born from code: Generative AI threatens to upend citizen science records
You need to tread carefully among the leaf litter of the Indonesian scrubland and its tropical rainforests. The dead leaves might seem caught in a gentle breeze, but there's more here than meets the eye. ...
Personalist politics pave the way for Indonesia’s authoritarian revival
As personalistic political parties displace institutionalised electoral competition, only broad-based structural reform can help put down Indonesia’s authoritarian resurgence.
Indonesian electoral reform remains stalled by political deadlock
Constitutional Court rulings have created an opportunity to reform Indonesia's electoral laws, but conflicting political incentives are stalling changes needed to safeguard fair electoral competition.
Iko Uwais, Albert Hughes Team for Crime Series 'Jakarta' at Alcon
Iko Uwais stars in 'Jakarta,' a family crime saga set in Indonesia, with Albert Hughes directing the pilot for Alcon Entertainment.
Indonesia's New Capital Is Changing the Borneo Rainforest Forever. Science is Listening to the Change
Indonesia is building a new capital city in the heart of Borneo to replace sinking Jakarta. As construction transforms one of the world's most biodiverse rainforests, scientists and their indigenous collaborators are racing to record the sounds of the forest—and preserve generations of ecological knowledge before it's lost.
Retiree, 75, lives out of a backpack, traveling the world with husband
Christine Casady says she and her husband are frugal by nature but have splurged in retirement on experiences like a $7,200 liveaboard snorkeling trip in Indonesia.
Herb Meiner's Rock It Like Herb Unveils a New Episode on Leadership, Innovation, and Transparency
Bali, Indonesia, July 02, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Herb Meiner has released the latest episode of his YouTube series, Rock It Like Herb . The n...
Indonesian Academy of Sciences launches journal with Taylor & Francis
Publication will be "source of original research spanning science, technology, mathematics and the social sciences"
Two marsupial species once known to science only from fossils, and thought lost for more than 6,000 years, have been confirmed alive in the rainforests of New Guinea’s Vogelkop Peninsula — a discovery made possible by old museum specimens, rare field photographs, fossil fragments and the knowledge of Indigenous Tambrauw and Maybrat elders.
Two marsupials known to science only from fossils, and presumed gone for more than 6,000 years, have turned out to be alive in the rainforests of the Vogelkop Peninsula in Indonesian Papua. The finding was published in March in the Records of the Australian Museum, and it leaned less on a lucky expedition than on […]
Indonesia's MD Entertainment Bets on IP and Microdramas
MD Entertainment CEO Manoj Punjabi outlines plans for cross-border IP development, microdrama expansion and global partnerships at APOS.
Indonesia’s MD Entertainment Bets on IP and Microdramas for Global Push
As Indonesia’s entertainment industry gains greater international visibility, MD Entertainment, one of the country’s top studios, is increasingly looking beyond local success and toward global partner...
Tech Founder’s Downfall in Indonesia Shows Rising Business Risks
The trial of one of Southeast Asia’s most successful entrepreneurs is adding to concern about governance under President Prabowo Subianto.
India vs Tajikistan FIFA friendly; Hariharan-Arjun in Indonesia Open QF: Indian Sports LIVE, June 5
Here are all the updates from Indian sports on June 5, 2026.
What do Turkiye and Indonesia want from bilateral talks?
Turkiye's Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan travelled to Indonesia to cement the two states' growing partnership.
Pragg beats Carlsen for second time in Norway Chess; Satwik-Chirag in first round action at Indonesia Open: Indian Sports LIVE, June 3
Here are all the updates from Indian sports on June 3, 2026.
Sindhu among Indians in action at Indonesia Open, Norway Chess continues: Indian Sports LIVE, June 2
Here are all the updates from Indian sports on June 1, 2026.
Sindhu among Indians in action at Indonesia Open, Norway Chess continues: Indian Sports LIVE, June 2
Here are all the updates from Indian sports on June 1, 2026.
Towards a responsive health system and equitable access to quality RMNCAH services
Indonesia’s vast geography and sociocultural diversity shape the delivery of reproductive, maternal, newborn, child and adolescent health (RMNCAH) services in ways that are both enabling and challenging. Across provinces, significant variation has been observed in how services are planned, resourced, and delivered. These variations in service standards and quality are felt daily in the lives of women, newborns and adolescents. Despite these challenges, progress is visible. National estimates show a drop in maternal mortality ratio, from 331 to 140 per 100 000 live births since 2000, signaling improvements in care quality and access. Fertility has stabilised and contraceptive use has grown, yet unmet reproductive health needs persist, and adolescent pregnancies continue to reflect early marriage and limited access to youth-friendly services.To better understand how Indonesia’s health system has evolved under decentralisation, the Ministry of Health, supported by World Health Organization (WHO), United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), IPAS and the Asian Development Bank (ADB), conducted a joint external review of RMNCAH programmes. This review draws on multiple sources of evidence, including existing literature, policy documents, national health system data, as well as field visits to six selected provinces to represent Indonesia’s geographic and administrative diversity. During the field visits, review teams observed service delivery in health facilities, spoke with health workers and local leaders and met mothers and families to understand how RMNCAH policies are operationalised. One of the challenges identified was the management of low birthweight (LBW) infants, a major contributor to neonatal deaths, under resource constraints. One midwife described a severe case of extremely LBW twins, one stillborn and the other died after three days of care. She recalled how the surviving infant struggled to swallow and may not have received breast milk, while simultaneous emergencies required the team’s attention, affecting the care provided to the infant.A subsequent review of the case by the district health office revealed insufficient antenatal care, fragmented maternal medical history due to population mobility, referral delays, limited provider capacity in neonatal intravenous access and a heavy workload that constrained proper newborn monitoring. These insights informed recommendations to strengthen both system-wide and service-level responses. Since the early 2000s, Indonesia’s decentralisation initiative has given much of the responsibility for funding, staffing and managing health services to regional governments. While the Ministry of Health sets national clinical standards, daily management of public health facilities falls under regional authorities through the Ministry of Internal Affairs. While this arrangement allows services to be tailored to local needs, it also depends heavily on local capacity for planning, budgeting and management. Health facilities and district health offices are better positioned to translate national priorities into local action when they have access to consistent technical support, helping health workers manage resource constraints and infrastructure gaps.The complexity of Indonesia’s health system governance is no easy feat to navigate. Understanding these dynamics is essential to strengthening policy, improving coordination and ensuring more equitable access to services across Indonesia. Under the leadership of Ministry of Health, recommendations from this exercise will be key in guiding the nation’s roadmap to an equitable and quality health system for RMNCAH.Written by Edit Oktavia Manuama, National Professional Officer (Maternal, Newborn, and Child Health), and Jessie Yunus, National Professional Officer (Gender, Rights, Equity, and Disability Inclusion)
Control Without Ownership: How China's Party-Business Networks Dominate Indonesia's Mineral Supply Chains
In 2024, when Jiangsu Delong, the world’s second-largest stainless-steel producer, filed for bankruptcy, several Chinese firms and state-owned enterprises
Ever Restless Mount Dukono Erupts
The volcano on Indonesia’s Halmahera Island routinely ejects ash, volcanic gases, and volcanic bombs.
Kidbash: Super Legend launches in early 2027 for consoles, PC
Roguelike action platformer Kidbash: Super Legend will launch for consoles and PC via Steam in early 2027, publisher Acclaim and Indonesian developers Authentic Remixes and Fat Raccoon announced. W…
Indonesia Politics
Indonesia's President Prabowo Subianto, right, waves as he leaves with Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, center, and House Speaker Puan Maharani after delivering his address during a House of Representatives
Iko Uwais, Joe Taslim Head K-Movie Entertainment’s Indonesian Action Slate at Cannes Market (Exclusive)
IMDb, la source la plus populaire et la plus fiable au monde en matière de films, de télévision et de célébrités.
Iko Uwais, Joe Taslim Head K-Movie Entertainment’s Indonesian Action Slate at Cannes Market (Exclusive)
IMDb es la fuente de contenido de películas, programas de TV y celebridades más popular y confiable del mundo.
Iko Uwais, Joe Taslim Head K-Movie Entertainment’s Indonesian Action Slate at Cannes Market (Exclusive)
IMDb, the world's most popular and authoritative source for movie, TV and celebrity content.
Iko Uwais, Joe Taslim Lead Indonesian Action Slate at Cannes Market
K-Movie Entertainment launches 'Pendekar: Warrior' and an Indonesian 'Man From Nowhere' remake at the Cannes Film Market.
Iko Uwais, Joe Taslim Head K-Movie Entertainment’s Indonesian Action Slate at Cannes Market (EXCLUSIVE)
K-Movie Entertainment is at the Cannes Film Market with a focused Indonesian action slate, led by “Pendekar: Warrior” starring Iko Uwais and an Indonesian-language remake of the Korean hit “The Man Fr...
Indosat CEO Vikram Sinha is building an AI for Indonesia’s local languages. Can he make a business case for sovereignty?
Vikram Sinha wants Sahabat AI to be a platform for Indonesia's startups—even if he admits his team can't quite think of a "business case" right now.
No, these rainbow clouds over Indonesia are not AI
The stunning meteorological phenomenon is 'truly magical.'
New science cracks open the mystery of the world's largest fish
For a decade, Konservasi Indonesia — Conservation International's local partner — tracked whale sharks across the open ocean, offering new clues for how to protect them.
Beyond medication: factors contributing to uncontrolled hypertension from the 2023 Indonesian health survey
Hypertension Research - Beyond medication: factors contributing to uncontrolled hypertension from the 2023 Indonesian health survey
More room for the fintech business to grow sustainably, says GoTo Group CFO
Simon Ho, CFO of GoTo Group, joins Squawk Box Asia to discuss the company's latest earnings report. He names the fintech business is a key driver of growth, and says there is still more room to expand in Indonesia.
Deadly Rohingya sea crossings are enabled by a business built on misery
Nearly 900 Rohingya disappeared at sea in 2025 as they tried to reach Thailand, Malaysia or Indonesia. Human trafficking networks have thrived on the despair of this stateless and persecuted Muslim minority from Myanmar.
700ft Underwater Camera Reveals Terrifying ‘Real-Life Monsters’ off Indonesia (Video)
What happens when you drop a night-vision camera hundreds of feet below the surface of Nusa Penida in Indonesia? Some bizarre marine life shows up.
Move over, K-pop? The hottest new Asian group could be from Indonesia
A new girl group from Asia has social media turning its head. But this time, they’re not from South Korea – they’re from Indonesia.
Google rolls out Gemini in Chrome in seven new countries
Google is rolling out Gemini in Chrome in Australia, Indonesia, Japan, the Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, and Vietnam.
Indonesia advances One Health and pandemic preparedness through CARE-I
CARE-I is financed by the Pandemic Fund, a global financing mechanism established in 2022 to strengthen pandemic prevention, preparedness and response, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. The programme focuses on advancing the One Health approach by strengthening collaboration across human, animal and environmental health sectors at both national and subnational levels. It will be implemented for three years from 2026 to 2028.
Indonesia and the politics of platform governance
The relationship between governments and digital platforms is never simple. Governments can introduce regulations, but digital platforms also possess enormous power through the technologies, algorithms, and global information infrastructure they control.
Careful, huge spoilers are out for James Bond game 007: First Light, following an Indonesian Game Rating leak
IO Interactive's 007: First Light spoilers have surfaced online alongside other upcoming video game leaks.
WHO commends Indonesia’s leadership in One Health action to reduce risks from priority zoonotic diseases
On World Health Day, the World Health Organization (WHO) highlights Indonesia’s progress in reducing health risks from zoonotic diseases through a strengthened One Health approach. One Health recognizes that the health of people, animals and the environment are closely connected and must be addressed together. Led by the Government of Indonesia and supported by WHO and partners, the country has expanded joint prevention, surveillance and response efforts across sectors.
SM Entertainment, Unicef partner to empower Indonesian girls, improve school facilities
K-pop powerhouse expanded its social contribution program across Southeast Asia by signing a new partnership with Unicef to support children in Indonesia, the company said on Monday.
SM Entertainment, UNICEF partner to aid Indonesian children
K-pop powerhouse SM Entertainment has signed a new partnership with UNICEF to support children in Indonesia, expanding its social contribution prog...
Friday's schedule: Morocco on OneFootball, more friendlies
FRIENDLIES05:30 - Solomon Islands x Bulgaria - DAZN and FIFA+06:10 - Australia x Cameroon - DAZN and FIFA+07:00 - Venezuela x Trinidad and Tobago - DAZN and FIFA+10:00 - Indonesia x Saint Kitts and Ne...
/C O R R E C T I O N -- Alliance for Creativity and Entertainment (ACE)/
The Alliance for Creativity and Entertainment (ACE), the world's leading anti‑piracy coalition, has successfully shut down AnimePlay, one of the largest illicit anime streaming applications operating in the Asia-Pacific region. The application was run out of Riau, Indonesia.
Providing quality, access to health care in rural Indonesia | Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health
Leni Siagian, MPH ’26, wants to ensure care for those who face challenges getting it.
Forum on harnessing Artificial Intelligence for health equity
Register to this forumOver the past decade, artificial intelligence (AI) has significantly evolved in complexity, performance, and utility. Its integration across a wide range of industrial sectors has accelerated, with healthcare emerging as one of the most transformative sectors. In this sector, AI has enabled high-impact applications – from enhancing the speed and accuracy of disease diagnosis and supporting clinical decision-making, to strengthening public health initiatives such as disease surveillance and workforce optimization. Moreover, AI holds immense potential to empower individuals, enabling them to take greater control of their personal health and well-being. Yet the central question remains: Who benefits, who is at risk, and do these innovations close or widen health inequities? While the potential of AI-enabled applications is substantial, many countries have approached their adoption with caution. This hesitancy stems from concerns about risks and benefits, including model bias, data breaches, privacy violations, and the erosion of professional skills due to over-reliance on AI. Additional barriers include inadequate data infrastructure and a lack of robust evidence on the most effective forms and interfaces of AI to enhance service delivery and system performance. Moreover, the rapid rise of Generative AI has introduced a heightened urgency for the development of comprehensive governance and ethical frameworks. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) Health Practice Team and Digital Sector, in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Office for the Western Pacific, are convening the Forum on Harnessing AI for Health Equity on 25–26 March at ADB Headquarters. Senior health officials from 16 developing member countries (DMCs), alongside leading researchers, innovators, and policymakers from across Asia and the Pacific, will engage in discussions on how AI can be governed, financed, and scaled to deliver healthier lives for all. The forum is funded through the High-Level Technology Fund with support from the Government of Japan. Objectives The two-day forum aims to:Identify high-impact, evidence-based health AI use cases suitable for resource-constrained settings and map out a pipeline for potential supportIntroduce and validate the WHO's policy guidance on minimum necessary ecosystem for countries and institutions to self-assess readiness for AI adoptionObtain initial commitment from participating stakeholders to join a pilot regional initiative focused on data/model sharing for a priority health challengeEndorse a prioritized set of actionable policy recommendations focusing on governance, regulation, and sustainable financing necessary to scale high-impact health AI use cases in resource-constrained settings Target participants The forum will convene participants from 16 ADB DMCs including Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cambodia, Cook Islands, Fiji, Indonesia, Lao People's Democratic Republic, Mongolia, Nepal, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Uzbekistan, and Viet Nam. In addition, health system leaders and practitioners, private sector technologists, academic experts, representatives from civil society organizations, development partners, and philanthropic institutions engaged in AI for Health from Australia, the People’s Republic of China, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore, and the Republic of Korea will also be invited. SessionsDay 1 (25 March)Session 1: AI Use Cases for the Care Continuum: Improving Access and QualitySession 2: Adopting a risk-based approach for AI use case prioritizationSession 3: Establishing the Minimum Ecosystem for Implementation Risk ManagementSession 4: Future-Ready Health Workforce: Building Competency for Human-AI CollaborationDay 2 (26 March)Session 5: The Political Economy of AI in Health: Understanding Stakeholder Interests and their Impact on EquitySession 6: AI and Health Financing: Supporting Fair Coverage and ProtectionSession 7: AI Regulation and Oversight: Pathways for Different RealitiesSession 8: The Way Forward – Building Alliances and Regional Partnership How to registerThe forum will be held in a hybrid format. In-person attendance is by invitation only, while livestreaming of the forum will be available to the public. To register, please complete this form on or before 24 March 2026.Event organizers / partnersAsian Development Bank (ADB)WHO Regional Office for the Western Pacific High-Level Technology Fund (HLTF)ContactAkihito WatabeHealth Specialist, SD3-HSDawatabe@adb.org Jae Kyoun KimHealth Specialist, SD3-HSDjkkim@adb.org
Southeast Asian Fuel Prices Destabilize Politics
Indonesia, for one, has a bloody history of fuel-related riots.
Scientists find 2 marsupial species, thought to have gone extinct 6,000 years ago, living in the forests of New Guinea
The pygmy long-fingered possum and the ring-tailed glider, two marsupials believed to have died out thousands of years ago, are still alive in Papuan Indonesia.
‘Traversal’ Review: Stories of Science and Love
An Indonesian volcano led to lousy weather in Europe. Trapped inside, Mary Shelley began to write “Frankenstein.”
Building climate-ready healthcare facilities across Indonesia
The World Health Organization (WHO), working with the Ministry of Health and partners, developed the Climate-Resilient and Environmentally Sustainable Health Care Facilities assessment tools. These were adapted from WHO's global framework and integrated into the SIKELIM platform, a digital system that maps disaster-affected facilities in real time. The tools help facilities assess vulnerabilities across systems including workforce capacity, water and sanitation WASH and waste, energy, infrastructure and technology.
American basketball player Jarred Shaw hoping for 'miracle' in Indonesian prison as health crisis worsens
American basketball player Jarred Shaw faces a health crisis while in an Indonesian prison after his May 2025 cannabis arrest, with the former star battling Crohn's disease.
Ex-college basketball player seeks release from Indonesian prison amid health crisis
Jarred Shaw is imprisoned in Indonesia for a drug offense, his health deteriorating. The former college basketball star is 'asking for sympathy.'
Indonesia Raises $4.5 Billion to Rebuff Credit Outlook Concerns
Indonesia pulled off its biggest global bond sale since at least 2017, overcoming the threat of a credit rating and signaling easing investor concerns about fiscal woes in Southeast Asia’s largest economy.
Uniting to respond to mental health impacts of digital violence
Technology-facilitated gender-based violence (TFGBV), from doxxing and cyberstalking to cyberbullying and online harassment, is reshaping how women and girls navigate digital spaces. Globally, an estimated 23% of women have experienced digital violence. In Indonesia, reported cases of TFGBV reached 1,791 in 2024, a 40.8% increase from the previous year. Yet very few survivors seek help, leaving lasting effects on their mental health and wellbeing. As part of the multi-UN agencies UNiTE campaign for the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Ministry of Health (MoH) co-hosted a talk show on 6 December 2025 to spotlight this urgent issue. The event brought together voices from Meta, the Indonesian Clinical Psychologist Association and Dr Vivi Syarif, a WHO Fides content creator, creating a cross-sectoral dialogue on the magnitude and mental health impact of digital violence. The talk show introduced psychological first aid as a vital initial intervention that communities can provide to survivors. This intervention aligns with the Psychological First Aid: Guide for Field Workers, a framework that has been standardized for over a decade. The "look, listen, link" approach focuses on ensuring safety and urgent needs, reassuring survivors and connecting them to appropriate services. In addition to this public health approach, Meta also outlined mechanisms to respond to digital violence and reaffirmed its commitment to building safer digital spaces by continuously updating community guidelines based on user feedback. Such collaborative discussions help connect community engagement initiatives with daily digital life. They empower audiences not only to understand how the health sector and industry are responding, but also to educate others, promote first-line support and encourage referrals to appropriate help. By fostering awareness and engagement, these dialogues strengthen collective resilience against digital violence. Written by Jessie O. Yunus, National Professional Officer (Gender, Equity, Rights and Disability Inclusion), WHO Indonesia
Indonesia Says It’s Preparing Thousands of Peacekeeping Troops for Trump’s Gaza Plan
President Prabowo Subianto of Indonesia will be among those meeting with President Trump in Washington this week to discuss his Board of Peace initiative to oversee a cease-fire in Gaza.
Indonesia prepares up to 8,000 troops in first firm commitment to Gaza peacekeeping force
Officials now talk about sending 5,000 to 8,000 troops, focusing on engineering and medical units.
Sun Life helping Canada and Canadian businesses diversify trade, CEO says
CEO Kevin Strain highlighted Hong Kong and Indonesia as 'standout markets' in the company’s Asia unit