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Xi Jinping's speech at the SCO summit signals China's effort to reshape global governance by promoting multilateralism and reducing US dominance. Meanwhile, Indonesia's President Prabowo advocates for a pragmatic, middle-power-led international system, emphasizing cooperation over confrontation amid a fractured unipolar world.
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Indonesia's president Prabowo has replaced five ministers amid widespread protests over economic hardship and lawmakers' allowances. The protests, sparked by a housing allowance scandal and youth unemployment, resulted in deaths and unrest. The government has revoked perks and taken security measures to restore calm. This highlights deep economic and political tensions.
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Protests erupted across Indonesia, starting in Jakarta on August 25, after a young delivery driver was killed by police. The violence has resulted in at least six deaths, injuries, and widespread destruction, highlighting deep social and economic tensions amid economic growth data that many Indonesians do not feel in their daily lives.
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Indonesia's government underwent a major cabinet reshuffle amid widespread protests and economic concerns. Key ministers, including Finance Minister Sri Mulyani, were replaced following unrest over economic inequality and government spending. Markets reacted negatively, with currency and stocks declining, highlighting investor unease about the political and economic stability.
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Severe flooding caused by heavy rains has resulted in at least 19 deaths and 10 missing persons across Bali and East Nusa Tenggara. Thousands have been displaced, with rescue efforts ongoing. The disaster has damaged homes, infrastructure, and impacted tourism, prompting government response and aid distribution.
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China's Victory Day parade and Russia's WWII commemorations highlight growing geopolitical tensions. President Xi Jinping emphasized China's military strength and national rejuvenation, while Russia's participation underscored its challenge to Western narratives. Regional sensitivities and historical memory are fueling a complex international landscape on the 80th anniversary of WWII.
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China has unveiled its Global Governance Initiative (GGI) during the SCO summit in Tianjin, aiming to reshape international cooperation amid global instability. The initiative emphasizes sovereignty, multilateralism, and development, contrasting with US-led approaches. It seeks to address governance gaps and promote a multipolar world, especially appealing to the Global South.
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Following deadly floods caused by extreme rainfall and land development, Bali authorities have announced a ban on new hotel and restaurant construction on rice fields and productive land. The move aims to reduce flood risks and curb overdevelopment, amid warnings of worsening climate impacts and environmental degradation.
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Indonesia's economy is under strain amid protests and political reshuffling. Despite policy changes, the rupiah remains weak, and government efforts to stabilize the economy are challenged by unrest and power consolidation moves by President Prabowo Subianto.
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Indonesia's energy future is at a crossroads, with massive Chinese investments surpassing US aid. While China promotes renewables and clean tech, the US pushes LNG and fossil fuels amid faltering climate aid. Local communities face environmental and health impacts from mining and industry expansion.
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Recent climate phenomena include a rare Sudden Stratospheric Warming over Antarctica affecting Australian weather, and powerful typhoons like Ragasa, intensified by climate change, impacting Southeast Asia. These events highlight the growing influence of global warming on regional weather patterns and natural disasters.
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Israel continues its military campaign in Gaza, refusing to end the conflict despite international pressure. Arab leaders condemn Israel’s actions, accusing it of genocide and expansionism. Qatar and Jordan call for accountability, while Israel’s policies and Netanyahu’s ambitions face widespread criticism at the UN. Diplomatic efforts remain stalled.
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ASEAN and Canada are close to finalizing a free trade agreement by the end of 2026, with discussions also underway to restart stalled US steel and aluminum tariffs talks. Malaysia promotes durian exports to China, highlighting regional economic ties amid broader trade negotiations.
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The Dutch government will return over 28,000 fossils from the Dubois Collection, including Java Man, to Indonesia. The fossils, excavated in the late 19th century, are regarded as crucial evidence of Homo erectus. The decision follows extensive research confirming the fossils were likely taken without local consent during colonial times. The transfer aims to address historical injustices and support scientific research.
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Indonesia temporarily suspended TikTok's license after the platform refused to fully comply with data requests during protests in late August. The move followed TikTok's temporary blackout of its live streaming feature amid escalating protests and regional digital regulation tensions. The license was reinstated after TikTok provided partial data and met obligations.
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Recent stories highlight Indonesia's food poisoning issues linked to a school lunch scheme, and the UK’s food allergy law improving safety for allergy sufferers. Meanwhile, new trends in baby and toddler diets, including carnivore diets, are gaining popularity despite health debates.
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Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced the safe arrival of 23 Malaysians detained by Israel after attempting to deliver aid to Gaza. The Malaysian government plans to raise Palestinian concerns at the upcoming ASEAN summit, where US President Trump will also attend, amid regional protests and diplomatic balancing.
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Indonesia has denied visas to Israeli athletes for the upcoming World Artistic Gymnastics Championships in Jakarta, citing political opposition linked to the Israel-Hamas conflict. The decision follows domestic opposition and longstanding policies, casting doubt on Israel’s participation. The event is scheduled for October 19-25, 2025.
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Indonesia's government, endorsed by President Prabowo Subianto, is exploring the development of a financial center in Bali modeled after GIFT City and Dubai IFC. The initiative aims to attract international investment through tax incentives and a new legal framework, amid economic growth targets and regional competition.
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During a summit in Egypt, Indonesian Defense Minister Prabowo asked Trump to connect him with Eric or Don Jr., unaware of a live microphone. The incident raises questions about diplomatic decorum and the intersection of business interests with politics, especially given ongoing Trump Organization projects in Indonesia.
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On October 22-23, 2025, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) suspended all discussions with Indonesia over hosting future Olympic events after Indonesia denied visas to Israeli athletes for the World Artistic Gymnastics Championships in Jakarta. The IOC demands guarantees that all athletes, regardless of nationality, can compete. Indonesia accepts the consequences but remains active in regional sports.
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France and Germany are planning to push for a UN-backed security force in Gaza, aiming to influence the region's stabilization. The US remains non-committal, while the UK signals support for ceasefire monitoring. The move reflects European efforts to gain more influence in Gaza's post-conflict arrangements amid ongoing negotiations.
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Brazil's President Lula and US President Trump met in Kuala Lumpur, signaling progress toward resolving US tariffs on Brazilian exports. Lula described the meeting as 'surprisingly good,' with both leaders optimistic about reaching an agreement soon, potentially easing tensions over tariffs imposed earlier this year.
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ASEAN and China signed the upgraded Free Trade Area 3.0 during the ASEAN summit, covering over 2 billion people. The agreement aims to enhance regional economic integration, digital trade, and sustainability, amid ongoing US-China tensions. Leaders also discussed recent military incidents and bilateral relations.
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Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto awarded former dictator Suharto the title of national hero, sparking debate. Critics highlight Suharto's human rights abuses and corruption, while supporters cite his role in independence and economic growth. The decision renews historical and moral discussions in Indonesia.
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Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced a new bilateral security treaty with Indonesia during President Prabowo's first state visit. The agreement commits both nations to regular security consultations and joint measures to address regional threats, building on previous accords and reflecting shared concerns over China's regional influence.
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Indonesia has expressed readiness to deploy up to 20,000 troops to Gaza as part of a US-backed international stabilisation force. The move aims to support a UN resolution for peace and demilitarisation, focusing on health and infrastructure, amid ongoing negotiations and uncertainty about deployment details.
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Indonesia's largest Islamic organization, NU, has given its chairman Yahya Cholil Staquf three days to resign or face removal. The move follows his invitation to a scholar supportive of Israel's Gaza campaign and allegations of financial mismanagement. The organization condemned Israel's actions in Gaza amid ongoing tensions.
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Cyclone Ditwah struck Sri Lanka last week, causing the worst floods in a decade, with at least 56 deaths and thousands displaced. Heavy rains also affected India and Southeast Asia, leading to fatalities and widespread damage. Recovery efforts are ongoing.
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Severe flooding in Indonesia, caused by cyclone and heavy rains, has resulted in at least 442 deaths and displaced nearly 291,000 people. Rescue efforts are ongoing amid infrastructure damage, blocked roads, and limited communication. Aid is being delivered via helicopters, navy ships, and satellite internet, with looting reported in affected areas.
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Flooding and landslides across Indonesia, Sri Lanka, and Thailand have killed more than 1,160 people, displaced hundreds of thousands, and caused widespread infrastructure damage. Heavy monsoon rains, intensified by rare tropical cyclones, are linked to climate change. Aid efforts are ongoing amid inaccessible areas and rising food prices. Today's date: Fri, 05 Dec 2025.
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Cyclone-induced floods and landslides in Indonesia, Sri Lanka, and Thailand have caused over 1,300 deaths and left thousands missing. Environmental damage, including deforestation linked to illegal logging and mining, has worsened the disaster, with authorities warning climate change is a key factor. Rescue efforts are ongoing amid infrastructure damage.