Six supporters of hardline Muslim cleric Rizieq Shihab were killed in a clash with Indonesian police on a Jakarta highway. Police claim self-defense after being attacked, while a spokesman for Rizieq calls it an extrajudicial killing. Rizieq, who leads the extremist Islamic Defenders Front, recently returned from self-exile in Saudi Arabia and is under investigation for violating coronavirus restrictions.

The United States International Development Finance Corporation is considering a $2 billion investment in Indonesia's sovereign wealth fund, the Indonesia Investment Authority. This potential investment, presented by DFC CEO Adam Boehler to Indonesian Minister Luhut Pandjaitan, aims to strengthen economic ties between the two nations. The fund, created under Indonesia's Omnibus Law, seeks to attract $15 billion in foreign investment. The article highlights the importance of transparency and effective management of the fund, referencing past financial scandals like Malaysia's 1MDB. The discussions involved key figures including President Donald Trump, Ivanka Trump, and Jared Kushner, with ongoing communication between U.S. and Indonesian officials.

Indonesian lawmakers are reconsidering a bill to ban alcohol consumption in response to rising deaths from illegal liquor. The Alcohol Prohibition Bill, first introduced in 2015, has been revived by 18 lawmakers from three parties. Proponents argue it will protect public health and social order, while critics warn it could exacerbate the problem by driving more people to dangerous bootleg alcohol. The bill includes exceptions for traditional rituals and tourist areas but faces opposition for potentially over-criminalizing alcohol consumption and burdening the prison system.

Jakarta has seen a significant rise in COVID-19 clusters within office buildings, prompting some companies to revert to remote work. The Indonesia COVID-19 Task Force reported a tenfold increase in workplace cases since May, with many clusters emerging due to lax adherence to health protocols. Experts and officials, including Jakarta Governor Anies Baswedan, emphasize the need for stricter enforcement of safety measures and regular testing to prevent further outbreaks. The government plans to name and penalize companies that fail to comply with these protocols.

Six Papuan activists, previously convicted of treason for organizing a protest in Jakarta, have been released from prison. The protest involved raising a banned separatist flag, symbolizing independence for West Papua. The activists' release was delayed despite a new decree for early release due to COVID-19. Their legal team argued that the charges of treason were unfounded, as the protest was peaceful. Human rights lawyer Veronica Koman claims repression in Papua is worsening, and without resolution, a violent uprising is possible. The activists plan to continue advocating for Papua despite limitations during the pandemic.

In Indonesia, rain masters like Wili Lo are hired to prevent rainfall during outdoor events through rituals and incantations, despite the lack of scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness. Lo, a devout Buddhist, combines traditions from Buddhism, Hinduism, and Javanese practices. Event organizers, such as Hari Prasetyo, frequently employ rain masters to ensure clear skies, while clients like Deany Jaghdour have reported successful outcomes. The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency acknowledges the cultural practice but emphasizes the need for scientific research.

Bali's pristine beaches are increasingly marred by plastic waste due to inadequate waste management infrastructure, growing tourism, and cultural practices. Indonesia ranks second globally in poorly managed plastic waste. Local initiatives like Bye Bye Plastic Bags, founded by Melati and Isabel Wijsen, and companies like EcoBali and Avani Eco are pioneering efforts to combat plastic pollution through education, waste separation, and biodegradable alternatives. The Indonesian government's ban on single-use plastic bags faces opposition from plastic producers, who argue for improved waste management alongside usage reduction.

The Gereja Komunitas Anugerah (GKA) in Indonesia, the first Christian church in the country to openly welcome LGBT members, has become a sanctuary for many while facing backlash from conservative groups. Established in 2013, the church promotes inclusivity and love, challenging traditional religious views. Despite losing support from the Reformed Baptist Church and facing threats, GKA continues its mission, inspiring initiatives like the Indonesian Rainbow Christian Fellowship. The church's stance is seen as a beacon of hope for LGBT individuals in a society where they face significant hostility and discrimination.

Indonesia's August 4 power outage has raised concerns about the state electricity company PLN and renewed calls for alternative power sources like geothermal, solar, and wind energy. The blackout, the worst since 2005, affected millions in Jakarta and surrounding areas. President Joko Widodo criticized PLN for its lack of a backup plan. The government is considering legislation to govern the renewable energy sector, aiming for 23% renewable energy by 2025. PLN faces scrutiny over its management and distribution of power, with compensation for affected customers being discussed.

In 2019, Indonesia saw a significant rise in cases of violence against children, including physical, psychological, and sexual abuse. High-profile incidents, such as the bullying of a 14-year-old girl and the hazing death of a 16-year-old student, have drawn public attention. The National Commission for Child Protection reported nearly 1,200 cases from January to May 2019, while the Witness and Victim Protection Agency noted an increase in child sexual abuse cases. Challenges include underreporting, social stigma, and the need for better-trained law enforcement. Efforts are underway to create child-friendly environments in schools and raise awareness about child protection.